4 films to see on the week of December 20 — December 26, 2019
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
REY, FINN, and Poe Daremon continue their journey as the surviving members of the Resistance face the First Order. A final battle continues with the power and knowledge of previous generations behind them. Directed by J.J Abrams, the film stars Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, and John Boyega. The last film in the series has decidedly mixed reviews. “It’s too bad that the Star Wars saga has saved the worst for last,” writes ReelViews’ James Berardinelli. “After more than 40 years, the Star Wars series comes in for a smooth landing,” says Newsday’s Rafer Guzman.
MTRCB Rating: G
Kalel, 15
KALEL, 15, deals with a problematic household and struggles in keeping up with schoolwork and his friends. On top of that, he is diagnosed with HIV. Directed by Jun Robles Lana, the film stars Elijah Canlas, Jaclyn Jose, and Eddie Garcia. Asian Movie Pulse’s Marina D. Richter writes, “Jun Robles Lana has shot the film based on his own script, and it’s an accomplished piece of writing with very little to complain about, except that the bridge between the dysfunctional family members is built only half-way. Strangely enough, film’s narrative doesn’t get damaged and the holes are being patched by the interesting framing and excellent ensemble cast, particularly concerning the choice of Elijah Canlas for the titular role.”
MTRCB Rating: R-13
Mercy Black
A WOMAN sent to prison after stabbing a classmate in order to conjure the evil spirit Mercy Black is released after 15 years. She must know save her young nephew from danger as he has become obsessed with the phenomenon. Written and directed by Owen Egerton, the film stars Daniella Pineda, Austin Amelio, and Elle LaMont. The Los Angeles Times’ Noel Murray writes, “The whole ‘beast whose name should not be invoked’ horror premise is tried-and-true; and while Egerton doesn’t do anything revolutionary with it, he doesn’t botch it, either. Mercy Black has a suitably spooky look, emphasizing all the dark corners where something malevolent may be lurking.”
MTRCB Rating: R-13
Apparition
A GROUP of young people experiment with a spiritually guided App and successfully connect to the underworld. Their adventure leads them to The Preston Castle where they discover how the murders and tortures at the site are connected to each of them. Directed by Waymon Boone, the film stars Mena Suvari, Kevin Pollak, and Jon Abrahams.
MTRCB Rating: R-13
