Entertainment Weekly has devoted their current issue to “Criminally Underrated” movies, TV shows, games, books and music. Here are five recent films that I would have included in their movie section (if asked). They’re a handful of films I genuinely liked which, sadly, were almost completely ignored by other critics and audiences:
“Labor Day” – While Jason Reitman’s latest drama isn’t as good as his 2009 George Clooney Oscar nominee “Up in the Air”, the story worked for me, thanks in large part to strong performances from Kate Winslet and Josh Brolin. It’s an intriguing and difficult film, but engaging and effective. Box Office Total: $13.4M; Rotten Tomatoes Average: 31%; LCJ Grade: B-
“Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit” – Director Kenneth Branagh (“Thor”) delivers an exciting and seamlessly entertaining action thriller. Chris Pine (“Star Trek”), Keira Knightley, and Kevin Costner all give solid performances, but it’s Branagh’s showcase villain who stands out. Extremely enjoyable spy caper, which can’t be said for most recent efforts in this genre. BOT: $50.3M; RTA: 56%; LCJ: B+
“Grudge Match” – Sylvester Stallone and Robert De Niro play ex-boxers who decide to duke it out in the ring one more time. It’s pretty funny, with a little heart tossed in. Supporting work from Alan Arkin, the hilarious Kevin Hart, and Kim Basinger help elevate a somewhat lackluster script. BOT: $29.8M; RTA: 30%; LCJ: B+
“The Family” – De Niro’s second film on this list is an edgy action comedy with just as many unique and clever elements as there are violent scenes. Michelle Pfeiffer and Tommy Lee Jones co-star, but it’s “Glee”‘s Dianna Agron who steals the spotlight as the tougher-than-she-looks teenage daughter. BOT: $36.9M; RTA: 29%; LCJ: B
“Jobs” – I actually believed Ashton Kutcher was late technological pioneer Steve Jobs – his performance was that convincing. This biopic is both interesting and sophisticated (at least until the final few scenes). Josh Gad (on fire right following his voice work as Olaf in “Frozen”) is also excellent as Steve Wozniack, Jobs’ original Apple partner. BOT: $16.1M; RTA: 27%; LCJ: B