Rainy Day Movie Night

Lilo & Stitch

The story of a lonely Hawaiian girl and a fugitive alien who helps her bring her broken family back together. A live-action adaptation of the hugely successful animated film. Is it worth watching? Surprisingly, yes — though it’s nothing extraordinary.

• The little girl playing Lilo is absolutely adorable, bringing charm and humor to the role.
• Stitch is just as crazy and lovable, even in his live-action form.
• The chemistry and humor between Lilo and Stitch are evident and among the film’s biggest strengths.
• Some clever and visually funny scenes, nicely handled direction-wise.
• The CGI is good, and Stitch’s integration into the real world works well.
• It’s an easy, enjoyable watch.
• The interaction between the two sisters feels warm and natural.

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• At times, it feels a bit procedural and lacks spark.
• The two aliens chasing Stitch, Jumba and Pleakley, just don’t work for me — as in the animation — their presence feels out of place in this more realistic setting.
• The extra scenes added offer nothing of value to the film.

Materialists

This romantic dramedy follows the emotional dilemma of a young woman torn between a comfortable life with a wealthy man and the emotional intensity of a past relationship with a broke waiter-actor. It’s the latest work from the director of Past Lives. Is it worth your attention?

• Its cynicism, sharp perspective, and realism — and especially the way it tackles its core theme (emotion in the age of emotional capitalism) — truly impressed me.
• Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans are all excellent in their roles, with Dakota standing out in particular.
• Beautiful direction.
• It has a slow, almost theatrical rhythm that I personally liked, though it may put some viewers off.
• Sharp, witty dialogue.
• Great soundtrack.
• Lovely depiction of New York City.
• Strong social commentary on love, gender, and class.

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• Despite dealing with such a “sensitive” topic, it feels emotionally distant — as if it never dares to go all the way.
• A subplot involving a client feels quite superficial, missing the chance to deepen the film’s message.
• Overall, the movie gives off a sense of coldness — perhaps intentionally.
• I didn’t feel much chemistry between the main couple.
• The breakup, shown in a flashback, is intense but emotionally “empty,” at least in how it’s portrayed.
• Could have benefited from being slightly shorter.