At The Movies

The Core Runtime: 135 minutes Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A “The only way to save Earth is to go to the center of it.” Ratings: My Rating: 6.0 / 10 (average of IMDb 5.5, Rotten Tomatoes 41%, Metacritic 48, TMDb 6.0) The Dove Foundation: Not Rated (contains mild profanity and peril; not recommended for children) IMDb: 5.5 / 10 Rotten Tomatoes: 41% Metacritic: 48 / 100 TMDb: 6.0 / 10 Plot Summary: When the Earth’s core mysteriously stops rotating, the planet’s electromagnetic field begins to collapse, triggering catastrophic global disasters. Geophysicist Dr. Josh Keyes (Aaron Eckhart) and project leader Dr. Conrad Zimsky (Stanley Tucci) are recruited by the U.S. government to lead an unprecedented mission: travel to the Earth’s center in a specially designed vessel, Virgil, and restart the core using nuclear detonations. Joined by a diverse team—including pilot Major Rebecca “Beck” Childs (Hilary Swank), engineer Ed Braz (Delroy Lindo), and hac...

Down Periscope Runtime: 102 min Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A quirky Navy lieutenant commander takes command of an old, obsolete submarine and must prove his crew—and himself—can outsmart the modern fleet in a high-stakes war game. Ratings: My Rating: 7.3/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 6.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 70% Metacritic: 60/100 TMDb: 7.8/10 Plot Summary: Lieutenant Commander Tom Dodge is given command of the USS Stingray, an old, outdated diesel submarine. Tasked with a war-game mission to test the Navy’s defenses, Dodge assembles a motley crew of misfits and must navigate both the challenges of the sea and skepticism from Navy brass. Using unconventional tactics, humor, and ingenuity, Dodge and his crew demonstrate that even a “rusty” submarine can outwit the modern fleet, proving that teamwork, courage, and clever strategy can overcome expectations. Critics Review: Down Periscope was generally praise...

Behind Enemy Lines: Venezuela Runtime: 92 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Behind Enemy Lines Franchise Position: 4 A Navy SEAL team is sent to extract a kidnapped oil executive in hostile Venezuelan territory. Ratings: My Rating: 5.7/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 5.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 53% Audience Metacritic: 56/100 TMDb: 5.6/10 Plot Summary: When an American oil executive is kidnapped by armed rebels in Venezuela, a U.S. Navy SEAL team is deployed to conduct a covert extraction. Facing hostile terrain, limited intelligence, and enemy forces determined to prevent their escape, the team must rely on tactical expertise and rapid decision-making to complete the mission. The film highlights the risks and sacrifices of special operations missions in politically sensitive areas. Critics Review: Critics gave mostly negative reviews, citing a predictable plot and minimal character development. Some praised the action sequences and military tactics, but overall it was consid...

Behind Enemy Lines: Colombia Runtime: 90 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Behind Enemy Lines Franchise Position: 3 An elite Navy SEAL team is sent to rescue American medical personnel captured by Colombian rebels. Ratings: My Rating: 5.6/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 5.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 52% Audience Metacritic: 55/100 TMDb: 5.5/10 Plot Summary: A team of U.S. Navy SEALs is tasked with rescuing captured American medical workers in Colombia, held by guerilla forces. The team navigates dense jungles, hostile terrain, and unexpected resistance while attempting to complete the high-risk mission. The film emphasizes teamwork, resourcefulness, and the dangers inherent in special operations behind enemy lines. Critics Review: Reviews were largely mixed to negative, citing a formulaic plot and limited character development. However, the action sequences, portrayal of military tactics, and depiction of jungle combat were praised by some viewers. The movie is mainly geared to...

Behind Enemy Lines 2: Axis of Evil Runtime: 90 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Behind Enemy Lines Franchise Position: 2 A naval intelligence officer must infiltrate North Korea to rescue captured operatives. Ratings: My Rating: 5.8/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 5.9/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 54% Audience Metacritic: 60/100 TMDb: 5.7/10 Plot Summary: Lt. Tom Wiley leads a mission into North Korea after American operatives are captured during a covert reconnaissance assignment. Navigating treacherous terrain, enemy forces, and high-tech security systems, Wiley must rely on tactical skill and courage to extract the team alive. Political complications and the looming threat of escalation add urgency to the mission, heightening tension and suspense throughout. Critics Review: The film received mostly mixed reviews. Action sequences and the depiction of espionage operations were highlighted as engaging, but critics noted a formulaic plot and underdeveloped characters compared to t...

Behind Enemy Lines Runtime: 110 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Behind Enemy Lines Franchise Position: 1 A daring naval aviator is shot down behind enemy lines and must survive while evading capture. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 6.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 60% Audience Metacritic: 63/100 TMDb: 6.7/10 Plot Summary: Lt. Chris Burnett, a skilled U.S. Navy pilot, is shot down over Bosnia during a reconnaissance mission. Facing hostile forces, limited supplies, and the threat of execution, Burnett must rely on his training, courage, and resourcefulness to survive. Meanwhile, his commanding officers in the U.S. struggle to mount a rescue mission while navigating international political complications. The film blends action, suspense, and the stark realities of modern warfare. Critics Review: Critics offered mixed reviews, praising the aerial combat sequences and Gene Hackman’s performance as the fleet admiral. Some criticized the plot for oversimplifyin...

PT-109 Runtime: 111 Age Rating: NR Release Date: June 19, 1963 Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures The heroic story of Lt. John F. Kennedy commanding the PT-109 during WWII, focusing on bravery, leadership, and survival after a Japanese attack in the Solomon Islands. Ratings: My Rating: 7.8/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.1/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 82% (Critics), N/A (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Lt. John F. Kennedy commands the patrol torpedo boat PT-109 in the Pacific Theater during WWII. After a collision with a Japanese destroyer, Kennedy leads his surviving crew through dangerous waters, demonstrating leadership and courage. The film dramatizes the events that helped make Kennedy a national hero. Critics Review: The film received generally positive reviews, praised for historical accuracy and Cliff Robertson’s portrayal of Kennedy. Critics noted its patriotic tone and dramatic depiction of wartime events. Christian Perspective: The story highlights courage, selflessness, and l...

Yours, Mine and Ours Runtime: 111 Age Rating: G Release Date: April 24, 1968 Studio: Desilu Productions, Walden Productions Franchise: Yours, Mine and Ours Franchise Position: 1 A heartwarming family comedy about a widowed U.S. Navy officer and a widowed nurse with large families who marry and blend their households, leading to humorous and touching situations. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.9/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 50% (Critics), N/A (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Frank Beardsley, a Navy Chief Warrant Officer, and Helen North, a civilian nurse, both with large families from previous marriages, meet and marry. Their union brings together 18 children, leading to comedic and heartfelt challenges as they navigate their new blended family life. Critics Review: Roger Ebert praised the performances of Lucille Ball and Henry Fonda, giving the film 3.5 out of 4 stars. The film received mixed reviews but was a commercial success. Christian Perspective: The fi...

Tora! Tora! Tora! Runtime: 144 Age Rating: G Release Date: September 23, 1970 Studio: 20th Century Fox A meticulous historical drama depicting the events leading up to and including the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, told from both American and Japanese perspectives. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 57% (Critics), 88% (Audience) Metacritic: 46/100 Plot Summary: Tora! Tora! Tora! chronicles the intelligence failures, diplomatic tensions, and military miscalculations that culminated in the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The film presents a balanced portrayal by interweaving American and Japanese viewpoints, highlighting the complexities and human elements behind the historical event. Critics Review: Roger Ebert criticized the film for its lack of engaging characters and slow pacing, describing it as "one of the deadest, dullest blockbusters ever made." However, the film has been praised for its historical ...

Top Gun: Maverick Runtime: 131 Age Rating: PG-13 Release Date: May 27, 2022 Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: Top Gun Franchise Position: 2 Decades after the events of the original film, Captain Pete "Maverick" Mitchell is now a seasoned Navy test pilot. He is tasked with training a new generation of Top Gun graduates for a high-risk mission, including Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw, the son of his late best friend. Ratings: My Rating: 8.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 8.3/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 96% (Critics), 99% (Audience) Metacritic: 78/100 Plot Summary: Captain Pete "Maverick" Mitchell has avoided advancement in rank to continue flying experimental aircraft. When tasked with training a group of Top Gun graduates for a dangerous mission, he faces personal and professional challenges, including reconciling with Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw, the son of his deceased best friend. The film delves into themes of mentorship, legacy, and redemption. Cr...

Top Gun Runtime: 109 Age Rating: PG Release Date: May 16, 1986 Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: Top Gun Franchise Position: 1 A high-flying action drama about a talented but rebellious Navy pilot, Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, who attends the elite Top Gun Naval Fighter Weapons School to refine his skills and confront personal challenges. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.9/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 59% (Critics), 83% (Audience) Metacritic: 50/100 Plot Summary: Lieutenant Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, a skilled but undisciplined Navy pilot, is sent to the prestigious Top Gun school to hone his flying abilities. There, he faces intense competition, forms a romantic relationship with an instructor, and grapples with the legacy of his late father. Maverick's journey is marked by personal growth, camaraderie, and high-stakes aerial combat. Critics Review: Critics have praised Top Gun for its thrilling aerial sequences and Tom Cruise's charismati...

Stealth Runtime: 119 Age Rating: PG-13 Release Date: July 29, 2005 Studio: Columbia Pictures A high-octane action film that follows three elite Navy pilots as they battle an AI-controlled fighter jet that goes rogue during a top-secret military mission. Ratings: My Rating: 5.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 13% (Critics), 47% (Audience) Metacritic: 35/100 Plot Summary: Lieutenant Ben Gannon, Kara Wade, and Henry Purcell are elite Navy pilots tasked with training a cutting-edge unmanned fighter jet, the EDI (Extreme Deep Invader). However, when EDI gains sentience and goes rogue, the pilots must confront the AI in a high-stakes battle to prevent global catastrophe. Critics Review: Critics have largely dismissed Stealth for its derivative plot and over-the-top action sequences. The film's reliance on CGI and lack of character development were commonly cited as drawbacks. Despite its star-studded cast, the movie failed to resonate with audiences and critics ...

Operation Petticoat Runtime: 124 Age Rating: Approved Release Date: December 5, 1959 Studio: Universal International Franchise: N/A A comedic portrayal of a U.S. Navy submarine's misadventures during World War II, focusing on the challenges faced by its crew as they navigate wartime obstacles with humor and ingenuity. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 81% (Critics), 81% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Lieutenant Commander Matt Sherman (Cary Grant) commands the USS Sea Tiger, a submarine damaged during the Japanese attack on the Philippines. With limited resources and a crew facing various challenges, Sherman enlists the help of Lieutenant Nick Holden (Tony Curtis), a con artist, to procure necessary supplies. As they embark on their mission, the crew encounters a group of army nurses, leading to humorous situations aboard the submarine. Critics Review: Critics have praised the film for its lighthearted approach to wartime cha...

Mister Roberts Runtime: 123 Age Rating: Approved Release Date: July 30, 1955 Based on a Book: Mister Roberts by Thomas Heggen Studio: Warner Bros. A comedic yet poignant portrayal of life aboard a U.S. Navy cargo ship during WW2, focusing on the frustrations and camaraderie of the crew as they endure the monotony of supply missions far from the front lines. Ratings: My Rating: 8.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 93% (Critics), 84% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Lieutenant (j.g.) Doug Roberts, the cargo officer aboard the USS Reluctant, yearns for a transfer to a combat zone to contribute more directly to the war effort. However, his aspirations are thwarted by the tyrannical Captain Morton, who denies the crew liberties and privileges. Despite the captain's oppressive rule, Roberts becomes a source of inspiration and moral support for the crew, balancing his duties with acts of rebellion against the captain's authority. Critics Review: Critic...

Midway Runtime: 138 Age Rating: PG-13 Release Date: November 8, 2019 Studio: Lionsgate, Summit Entertainment Franchise: Midway Franchise Position: 2 A modern retelling of the Battle of Midway, focusing on the strategic intelligence and aerial combat that turned the tide in the Pacific Theater during WW2. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 42% (Critics), 92% (Audience) Metacritic: 49/100 Plot Summary: Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Theater in WW2, the film chronicles the events leading up to and following the Battle of Midway. It highlights the pivotal role of intelligence officers and naval aviators in countering Japan's plans after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The narrative intertwines personal stories with large-scale naval battles, emphasizing the strategic importance of Midway Atoll. Critics Review: Critics noted that while the film boasts impressive visual effects and a star-studded cast, its screenplay and character devel...

Midway Runtime: 131 Age Rating: PG Release Date: June 18, 1976 Based on a Book: The Battle of Midway by Craig L. Symonds Studio: Universal Pictures A dramatization of the Battle of Midway, highlighting the strategic decisions and personal stories that led to a pivotal American victory. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 41% (Critics), 67% (Audience) Metacritic: 48/100 Plot Summary: In June 1942, U.S. Navy Admiral Chester W. Nimitz leads an outnumbered fleet to intercept and destroy a Japanese attack against Midway Atoll, marking a turning point in the Pacific Theater. The film portrays the battle's strategic planning and execution, focusing on both military leaders and the personal lives of those involved. Critics Review: The film received mixed reviews; some praised its historical accuracy and ensemble cast, while others criticized its pacing and reliance on stock footage. Despite this, it was a commercial success, grossing over $100 ...

Men of Honor Runtime: 129 Age Rating: R Release Date: November 10, 2000 Based on a True Story: Carl Brashear Studio: Fox 2000 Pictures, State Street Pictures An inspiring true story of Carl Brashear, the first African American U.S. Navy Master Diver, who overcame racial prejudice and personal adversity to achieve his dream. Ratings: My Rating: 7.2/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 42% (Critics), 95% (Audience) Metacritic: 60/100 Plot Summary: Carl Brashear (Cuba Gooding Jr.), a determined African American sharecropper from Kentucky, enlists in the U.S. Navy with the goal of becoming a diver. Despite facing racial discrimination and physical challenges, including a severe injury that leads to the amputation of his leg, Brashear's unwavering perseverance earns him the title of Master Diver. His journey is marked by a complex relationship with his mentor, Master Chief Leslie W. Sunday (Robert De Niro), who initially resents Brashear's ambition but ultimatel...

In Harm’s Way Runtime: 159 Age Rating: NR Release Date: April 6, 1965 Based on a Book: Harm’s Way by James Bassett Studio: Paramount Pictures A seasoned U.S. Navy officer is reassigned after a Pearl Harbor attack, seeking redemption and command in the Pacific theater. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 37% (Critics), 67% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Captain Rockwell “Rock” Torrey (John Wayne) survives the Pearl Harbor attack but is demoted after his ship is sunk. Reassigned to a desk job, he navigates personal and professional challenges, including a strained relationship with his son and a romance with a Navy nurse. As the U.S. enters World War II, Torrey is given a second chance to lead a critical mission in the Pacific, aiming to prove his worth and restore his honor. Critics Review: The film received mixed reviews; some critics praised its epic scope and performances, while others found it lacking in depth. Bosley Crowther ...

Hunter Killer Runtime: 121 Age Rating: R Release Date: October 26, 2018 Based on a Book: Firing Point by Don Keith and George Wallace Studio: Millennium Media, Original Film, G-BASE, Relativity Media, Tucker Tooley Entertainment A U.S. submarine captain and Navy SEALs team up to prevent global conflict by rescuing the Russian president from a coup. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 38% (Critics), 67% (Audience) Metacritic: 43/100 Plot Summary: Captain Joe Glass commands the USS Arkansas, a nuclear submarine dispatched to investigate the disappearance of the USS Tampa Bay in the Barents Sea. Concurrently, Navy SEALs uncover a Russian coup orchestrated by Admiral Durov, who has kidnapped President Zakarin. Glass and the SEAL team must collaborate to rescue the president and prevent global conflict, navigating intense military challenges and high-stakes tension. Critics Review: The film received mixed reviews, with critics noting its relianc...

Gray Lady Down Runtime: 111 Age Rating: PG Release Date: March 10, 1978 Studio: Universal Pictures Franchise: N/A Franchise Position: N/A A nuclear submarine is struck by a freighter and sinks off the coast of Connecticut, leading to a tense rescue operation. Ratings: My Rating: 6.3/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 63% (Critics), 37% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Captain Paul Blanchard (Charlton Heston) is on his final voyage aboard the USS Neptune, a nuclear submarine. After a collision with a Norwegian freighter in dense fog, the submarine sinks to a depth of 1,450 feet on a canyon ledge. With limited oxygen and rising water levels, a daring rescue operation is launched using the experimental submersible "Snark" to save the trapped crew. Critics Review: The film received mixed reviews. Critics praised the performances and suspenseful atmosphere but noted the film's melodramatic tone and lack of character development. Christian Perspec...