By Tony Beal

IN THEATERS

“Creed III”
Adonis Creed finds himself having to face his greatest fight in the ring after a friend from his past returns.

Michael B. Jordan has long since proven himself to be one of the most interesting actors of his generation, and “Creed III” not only continues that but also reveals his skills as a director. You’ve never seen a boxing scene like this in any of the “Rocky” movies, in terms of visuals and the way you feel the impact of each punch given. The movie manages to feel fresh despite being movie number nine in the series, with a story about what it’s like to still be in the boxing business, despite retiring as a fighter, that adds a new perspective we haven’t seen before. And, of course, Jonathan Majors is one of the best opponents of the series as a cunning but still empathetic figure who has reached a new level of brutality. Some character stories can feel rushed, but overall, it makes for a great and arguably one of the best sports movies ever made. More that 45 years on, the “Rocky” series continues to surprise.
“65”
A pilot and one of his passengers crash land and must face the elements and dangers of prehistoric Earth.
This movie has such a great premise, of future technology versus old environments, but its execution is incredibly disappointing. It’s clearly been chopped to bits in post-production, with strangely timed flashbacks and scenes that stop the movie’s progression. Adam Driver, despite giving his all, feels miscast and lost in trying to convince the audience of his character. Even the action feels weightless, with a lack of true horror or the feeling of danger from the dinosaurs. Even its worldbuilding feels half-baked, and like the rest of the film, doesn’t reach its potential. This movie is likely the first major letdown of the year.
“Cocaine Bear”
In Georgia, the stories of various individuals collide when they come into the sight of a dangerous, coked-up bear.

There’s not much to say about “Cocaine Bear” that the title doesn’t already reveal. Based on a true story, it gives you what you want: a bear is high on cocaine and gruesomely murders people in comedic fashion. That’s all you want to see, and Elizabeth Banks does a decent job at balancing the horror and humor together, even if her direction doesn’t reach the full potential of insanity the story has. Similarly, the incredible cast aren’t at their best, but they’re likable enough where you don’t mind when they’re on screen instead of the bear. It’s a good 90 minutes of fun – entertaining and amusing if not fully memorable.
“Scream VI”
A new series of Ghostface murders begins after previous survivors move to New York City.

The sixth installment of the “Scream” series has a lot of excellent moments, from chase scenes to gore that are some of the best we’ve seen. For most of the runtime, it keeps up that suspense and improves characters that weren’t as engaging in the last film. There are some interesting themes regarding true crime’s exploitation and even distrust in law enforcement. The film does still stumble regarding the inclusion of older characters (namely Gale, who is essentially here so the film has an original character involved for a few scenes) and retreading old ground in terms of plot and characters. Most devastatingly though are the last 15 minutes featuring a leap in logic that is asked of the audience that throws out its ideas and themes for action that’s over the top, even by “Scream” standards. It’s a shame that it squanders all of that so quickly, and almost ruins what was an otherwise solid and tense film.

NEW RELEASES
April 5
“The Super Mario Bros. Movie”
“AIR”
“On A Wing and A Prayer”

April 7
“Paint”
“How To Blow Up a Pipeline” (Limited)
“Showing Up” (Limited)

April 14
“Renfield”
“The Pope’s Exorcist”
“Sweetwater”

April 21
“Evil Dead Rise”
“Chevalier”
“Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant”
“Beau Is Afraid” (Limited)
“Ghosted” (Apple TV+)

April 28
“Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret”
“Polite Society”
“Sisu”
“Big George Foreman”