More often than not, the label of “private family matter” spells doom and gloom. A good time is not going to be had. That’s the unfortunate impetus that brings two disunified brothers and their wives together for “The Dinner.” Compressing layers of familial discontent and rancor thinly-masked by the repulsive worst of white privilege, the tightly-wound urgency and shattering purpose of this titular meeting reveals itself over the film’s two hours.
What keeps “The Secret Life of Pets” entertaining is the redeeming measure of charisma. Nothing is ever to a "Pixar Punch" level, yet the ever-present plucky pizzazz washes down the occasional preposterous stupidity with the right cooling chaser. You could do far worse for family summer fun at the theater. Now go home and hug that adorable pooch you left home from the movie theater. He or she has been waiting for you.
Read MoreI watch "Minions" and I don't see anything fresh or fun. I see a bloated adventure film that steals good ideas from better films because its own originality is tremendously limited. I hear and see repeated cliches around every corner that are only played for laughs because of mild physical comedy. I see a movie so annoying that I would punch my own child in the face for wanting to watch it over and over. I'll be the one that says it. This film is terrible and we can do better with family entertainment.
Read MoreThe film is up for four Oscars: Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Score, and Best Actress. In profound fashion, it deserves every single one of those nominations in each respective category. "Philomena" may be a smaller British film, but it is a touching story that deserves to be seen by larger audiences.
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