Three Amigos! - 3/5

This movie uses primarily the comedy framework of an awkward situation that goes on so long that it becomes funny, so comedy mileage may vary among audience members. That being said, the antics of Chevy Chase, Steve Martin, and Martin Short are on point and the trio of SNL veterans are having a blast hamming it up. It’s a classic for its comedy, not its depth.

Closest comparison: It’s like a cross between The Magnificent Seven and Galaxy Quest.

Setting: Western
Plot: Fish out of Water
Tone: Screwball Comedy

Only Murders in the Building (Season 1, Hulu) - 3/5

This show is a fun, modern take on the cozy mystery genre. It takes its time and dwells more on the interpersonal drama than on the actual mystery, which will be engaging for some viewers and off-putting for others. The characters are quirky, as if they were designed to be so. But it’s a fun murder mystery with lots of fun twists and turns in the plot, and enough character motivation to keep the story trundling along. While it isn’t the ultimate mystery, the payoff is better than it needed to be.

Closest comparison: It’s like an early Poirot with the modernism of Knives Out.

Setting: Murder Mystery
Plot: Detective
Tone: Bumbling Comedy

The Addams Family (2019) - 2/5

The first half of this movie is focused on introducing the Addams family and is pleasantly funny, with all the types of jokes and gags we’ve come to expect over the years. The second half of the movie is bland tripe, uninspired and providing a veneer of popular themes without a plot to support them. Even fans of the show will be disappointed by the portrayal of many characters individually and ultimately the family as a whole.

Closest comparison: It’s like Despicable Me by way of Tim Burton, but not by Tim Burton.

Setting: Pop Horror
Plot: Fish out of Water
Tone: Family Comedy

Treasure Planet - 4/5

One of the most overlooked and underrated Disney films, Treasure Planet was ahead of its time. The blend of a computer generated world with hand drawn characters is a neat style, though some have said they don’t enjoy it, and allows for sweeping shots and beautiful world creation. It’s a great adaptation of the source material, translated into a space steampunk world. And the Goo Goo Dolls soundtrack is the perfect veneer to finish it off.

Closest comparison: Titan A.E. via Disney

Setting: Sci-fi
Plot: Adventure
Tone: Family