This week, we feature a beautiful (and beastly) retelling of a Disney classic and a solid actioner about two hunted spies on the run.
New Release
‘Alarum’
When retired spies Joe (Scott Eastwood) and Lara (Willa Fitzgerald) stumble upon a rogue intelligence network, their peaceful retreat turns deadly as they’re hunted by a relentless operative leader (Mike Colter). Enter Agent Chester (Sylvester Stallone), whose shifting motives only deepen the intrigue.
Packed with intense action and a gripping conspiracy, this film marks a notable step up from Stallone’s recent projects. While it doesn’t break new ground in the genre, its dynamic cast and unyielding pace make it an engaging watch.
Action | Crime | Thriller
Release Date: Jan. 16, 2025
Director: Michael Polish
Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Scott Eastwood, Willa Fitzgerald
Running Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Where to Watch: Theaters
Rated: 3 stars out of 5
Family Pick
‘Horton Hears a Who!’
Horton the elephant (Jim Carrey) hears cries for help from Whoville, a tiny world on a speck of dust. Befriending their mayor, Ned McDodd (Steve Carell), Horton promises to protect them, even as others mock him for believing in what they can’t see.
With its message of valuing everyone—no matter their size—the film delivers delightful family entertainment. Jim Carrey infuses Horton with warmth, while Carol Burnett adds edge as the dastardly kangaroo. Stunning animation and sharp humor bring this timeless Dr. Seuss tale to life.
Animation | Comedy | Family
Release Date: March 14, 2008
Directors: Jimmy Hayward, Steve Martino
Starring: Jim Carrey, Steve Carell, Carol Burnett
Running time: 1 hour, 26 minutes
MPAA Rating: G
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon, Fandango at Home
Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5
A Classic Reimagined
‘Beauty and the Beast’
Belle (Emma Watson), a spirited and self-reliant young woman, is held captive in the castle of a Beast (Dan Stevens), under a powerful curse. With the help of the staff, she discovers the gentle soul of the prince within, showing that love can overcome any curse.
“Beauty and the Beast” features vibrant visuals, classic music, and great voice work, making it enjoyable for Disney fans. However, Emma Watson’s stiff performance and the Beast’s expressionless CGI face somewhat hinder an otherwise good film.
Adventure | Fantasy | Romance
Release Date: March 17, 2017
Director: Bill Condon
Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans
Running time: 2 hours, 9 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Apple TV
Rated: 3 stars out of 5
A Town on the Edge
‘A Lawless Street’
Marshal Calem Ware (Randolph Scott) is weary of violence and haunted by a past. When a businessman (Warner Anderson) hires a gunman (Michael Pate) to kill Ware and his lost love Tally (Angela Lansbury) returns, he faces multiple confrontations.
It’s a strong Western, with Scott as a noble sheriff standing up for justice and standout villains portrayed by Pate and Warner Anderson.
Western
Release Date: Dec. 15, 1955
Director: Joseph H. Lewis
Starring: Randolph Scott, Angela Lansbury, Warner Anderson
Running Time: 1 hour, 18 minutes
Not Rated
Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Apple TV
Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5
What arts and culture topics would you like us to cover? Please email ideas or feedback to features@epochtimes.nyc
