This week, we feature a re-make of a comedy classic about twins trying to reunite their parents and a rousing war movie about the Japanese invasion of the Philippines during World War II.
New Release
‘Holiday Twist’
Grinch-like Connie (Kelly Stables), dubbed “Anti-Christmas Connie” by her community, is a big-shot executive with a bad attitude. However, when things begin to turn south for her, help arrives in an unexpected form that starts to melt her icy heart with some Christmas warmth.
This is an inspiring drama with a solid cast of actors and some hilarious dialogue. It’s also a touching movie about a damaged soul who begins a journey of inner healing, with has hopeful messages about forgiveness and facing one’s past trauma.
Comedy | Family | Romance
Release Date: Dec. 1, 2023
Director: Stephanie Garvin
Starring: Neal McDonough, Sean Astin, Caylee Cowan
MPAA Rating: PG
Where to Watch: Theaters
Rated: 3 stars out of 5
Family Pick
‘The Parent Trap’
Hallie Parker and Annie James (both played by Lindsay Lohan) are twins who were separated when their parents, Nick Parker (Dennis Quaid) and Elizabeth James (Natasha Richardson), divorced. As chance would have it, Hallie and Annie meet at a summer camp and make it their mission to reunite their parents for good.
Although this remake of the 1961 film starring Hayley Mills isn’t as focused as the original, it does have some positive messages about the importance of family and second chances. It’s well-shot and introduces Ms. Lohan as a young, show-stealing talent.
Adventure | Comedy | Drama
Release Date: July 29, 1998
Director: Nancy Meyers
Starring: Lindsay Lohan, Dennis Quaid, Natasha Richardson
Running Time: 2 hours, 8 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Where to Watch: AppleTV, Amazon, Vudu
Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5
A Paul Newman-Powered Cop Drama
‘Fort Apache, the Bronx’
Life is already hard for career cop Murphy (Paul Newman) and his rookie partner Corelli (Ken Wahl), who work the crime-ridden streets of the South Bronx. But things get even more strained when Capt. Connolly (Ed Asner) arrives as their new precinct commander.
This gritty crime drama has some violent themes and scenes, but these are underscored by both excellent character development and heartfelt drama. Newman’s performance is multi-faceted and a testament to his phenomenal range as an actor.
Crime | Drama
Release Date: Feb. 6, 1981
Director: Daniel Petrie
Starring: Paul Newman, Edward Asner, Ken Wahl
Running Time: 2 hours, 5 minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Where to Watch: YouTube, Roku
Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5
Resistance in the WWII Philippines
‘Back to Bataan’
After the Japanese invade the Philippines during World War II, it’s up to U.S. Army Col. Joseph Madden (John Wayne) and his comparatively small group of guerrilla fighters to strike back—against all odds.
This is a rousing tale of true grit—a war drama that successfully melds engaging drama and action with an underdog tale about an island nation that refused to surrender.
Drama | War
Release Date: May 31, 1945
Director: Edward Dmytryk
Starring: John Wayne, Anthony Quinn, Beulah Bondi
Running Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes
Not Rated
Where to Watch: Vudu, Apple TV, Amazon
Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5
