This movie is an effective comedy with good laughs and a solid plot. It has fun with the jock-dork stereotypes and subversion of their dynamics that is endearing instead of sardonic. I can’t speak to how well it adapts the source material; it stands well on its own, though I don’t think it has the staying power to be considered great.
Closest comparison: It’s like Donnie Brasco by way of Superbad.
Setting: High School Comedy
Plot: Detective
Tone: Buddy Cop
This movie is wonderfully acted conglomeration of characters, each of whom has a sordid past that is slowly revealed over the course of the film. But the draw is the vivid characters chewing the scenery more than anything, and while it starts off very strong the third act is one of the more boring climaxes the screenwriters could have chosen. Still, it’s fun watching the fireworks.
Content warning: brief background nudity
Closest comparison: It’s like if The Hateful Eight were directed by the Coen Brothers.
Setting: Mystery
Plot: Crime
Tone: Thriller
This little gem flew under the radar for many people, but it’s the most solid coming-of-age that’s come out in a while. The stop motion animation lends an intimacy to each scene and a closeness to the hardships and tenderness on display that is hard to capture even in live action. Its melancholy story is endearing in all the right ways, partly because it deals with a younger age group than most other films of its ilk and partly because it simultaneously doesn’t shy away from either how grim life can really be or how heroic the mundane actions of good people can be.
Closest comparison: It’s like Stand By Me by way of Wallace and Grommit.
Setting: Coming of Age
Plot: Coming of Age
Tone: Drama
Parts of this movie are a lot of fun, but it destroys everything it built when it enters the final 30 minutes. Sure, the movie is colorful and funny, with catchy songs and memorable characters for the most part, but it throws out the story and consistent characters in favor of its preachy morality. Not only is it a dubious lesson in practice for children in the audience, but it doesn’t even make sense within the context of the film. Some clever and fun moments are not enough to save a bad overall idea.
Closest Comparison: It’s like The Lego Movie but with virtue signaling in place of meaningful story.
Setting: Fantasy
Plot: Adventure
Tone: Comedy
