SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — The best news of the weekend is that "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," the animated sequel to 2018's "Into the Spider-Verse" is as good, if not better, than the original film. That's high praise considering "Into the Spider-Verse" was one of the top 5 films of 2018 (animated or otherwise). It might be the most liberating film I've seen in years. It's the sort of theatrical experience that reminds me of why I fell in love with cinema in the first place. It exists in the rare space where avant garde and the mainstream intersect.
If animation isn't your thing (you should still give "Across the Spider-Verse" a shot) and horror is your preference, you'll want to give "The Boogeyman" a watch. Don't let the PG-13 rating dissuade you. The story isn't particularly new, but the film was effective enough to tie my stomach in knots.
Those preferring to stay in and stream their entertainment should note that this week sees the release of Ted Lasso's season finale. So, if you've been considering trying out Apple TV+, this would be a good time to try out that free trial (or renew your subscription).
Studio Synopsis: Miles Morales returns for the next chapter of the Oscar-winning Spider-Verse saga, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. After reuniting with Gwen Stacy, Brooklyn’s full-time, friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is catapulted across the Multiverse, where he encounters the Spider Society, a team of Spider-People charged with protecting the Multiverse’s very existence. But when the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles finds himself pitted against the other Spiders and must set out on his own to save those he loves most. Anyone can wear the mask – it’s how you wear it that makes you a hero.
Starring: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac
Genre: Animation, Adventure
Rated: PG for sequences of animated action violence, some language and thematic elements
Reaction: It's fantastic. A liberating cinematic experience. [Full Review]
Where to Watch: Theaters
Studio Synopsis: From the mind of best-selling author Stephen King comes “The Boogeyman.” High school student Sadie Harper and her younger sister Sawyer are reeling from the recent death of their mother and aren’t getting much support from their father, Will, a therapist who is dealing with his own pain. When a desperate patient unexpectedly shows up at their home seeking help, he leaves behind a terrifying supernatural entity that preys on families and feeds on the suffering of its victims.
Starring: Sophie Thatcher, Chris Messina, Vivien Lyra Blair
Genre: Horror, Thriller
Rated: PG-13 for terror, violent content, teen drug use and some strong language
Reaction: An effective, well-made horror film. Highly recommended. [Full Review]
Where to Watch: Theaters
Studio Synopsis: Many legendary realms have suddenly combined into one, but their union is unstable. A Spinjitzu Ninja Master must train a new generation of heroes to help find Elemental Dragons who can save the planet before the forces of evil use the same dragon energy to destroy this new world.
Starring: Sam Vincent, Brian Drummond, Giles Panton
Genre: Animated, Action
Rated: TV-Y
Where to Watch: Netflix
Studio Synopsis: The story of an accomplished female journalist who is charged for the heinous murder of her fellow journalist. The others charged include a notorious sharp shooter, a nefarious bookie and an underworld kingpin, Chhota Rajan! She awaits a trial while the truth is dragged away and quietly buried.Starring: Eshaan Pereira, Karishma Tanna, Harman Baweja
Genre: Series, Crime
Rated: TV-MA
Where to Watch: Netflix
Studio Synopsis: From the executive producer, Jessica Biel, comes the chilling story of one girl, Kate Wallis, who goes missing. And another girl, Jeanette Turner, who mysteriously takes over her life. Told over 3 summers in the 90s, Cruel Summer will leave you torn between who to believe and what ‘the truth’ even looks like. Because the deeper you go in this mystery, the darker it gets. In this twisted tale, the truth is how you see it.
Starring: Olivia Holt, Chiara Aurelia, Froy Gutierrez, Harley Quinn Smith, Allius Barnes
Genre: Series, Thriller, Drama,Mystery
Rated: TV-14
Where to Watch: Freeform
Studio Synopsis: In the season three finale, “So Long, Farewell,” AFC Richmond play their final match of the season
Starring: Jason Sudeikis, Brett Goldstein, Brendan Hunt
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Rated: TV-MA
Where to Watch: Apple TV+