At The Movies

Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man Runtime: 61 minutes Studio: Universal Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Monster Franchise Position: 8 The comedy duo becomes entangled in a murder mystery involving a scientist who has discovered the secret to invisibility, leading to chaos and slapstick adventures. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5 The Dove Foundation: Approved IMDb: 6.5 Rotten Tomatoes: 67% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 6.3 Plot Summary: Bud and Lou get involved in a bizarre series of events when a scientist, Dr. Philip Gray, discovers a chemical formula that renders him invisible. As he attempts to use his invisibility to solve crimes, a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings ensue. Bud and Lou find themselves wrongly implicated in murders and chased by both the authorities and the invisible scientist. Classic slapstick gags, mistaken identity, and chaotic antics dominate as the duo tries to clear their names and stop the invisible man from committing further crim...

Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy Runtime: 79 minutes Studio: Universal Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Monster Franchise Position: 9 The comedy duo stumbles upon an ancient Egyptian curse and a living mummy while seeking adventure and treasure. Ratings: My Rating: 6.6 The Dove Foundation: Approved IMDb: 6.6 Rotten Tomatoes: 67% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 6.4 Plot Summary: In this final installment of Abbott and Costello’s monster comedies, the pair play bumbling archaeologists stranded in Egypt. When they get mixed up in a plot involving a valuable medallion, a deadly cult, and the revived mummy Klaris, chaos follows. Mistaken identities, slapstick chases, and comic misunderstandings ensue as they try to keep the treasure safe and avoid being wrapped up by the mummy—or the gang of villains who want it. Critics Review: Critics often view Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy as a light but entertaining conclusion to the duo’s long run of monster-themed comedies. While not...

The Errand Boy Runtime: 82 minutes Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A comedy following Stanley as he takes a new job as a lowly errand boy at a large corporation, resulting in a series of humorous mishaps. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: G IMDb: 7.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 82% Audience Metacritic: 76/100 TMDb: 7.5/10 Plot Summary: Stanley, played by Jerry Lewis, begins working as an errand boy at a major corporation, where his clumsy nature and over-enthusiasm lead to chaotic situations and comic misunderstandings. Through his misadventures, he inadvertently exposes corporate incompetence and brings humorous consequences to those around him. The film relies heavily on visual gags, slapstick, and physical comedy. Critics Review: Critics praised Lewis’s comedic timing and inventiveness, noting the film’s humor and charm. While some criticized the thin plot, the inventive slapstick and expressive performances were highlighted as the film...

The Bellboy Runtime: 77 minutes Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A silent comedy showcasing the misadventures of a hotel bellboy navigating chaotic situations. Ratings: My Rating: 7.8/10 The Dove Foundation: G IMDb: 7.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 85% Audience Metacritic: 80/100 TMDb: 7.8/10 Plot Summary: The film follows Stanley, a bumbling but good-natured bellboy at a Miami hotel, as he encounters eccentric guests, comic misunderstandings, and a series of slapstick mishaps. Without traditional dialogue, the humor relies on physical comedy, timing, and visual gags. Stanley’s clumsiness leads to chaos but also to moments of unexpected humor and charm. Critics Review: Critics praised The Bellboy for its inventive visual comedy and Jerry Lewis’s performance, noting the film’s charm and timing. It is considered a classic in American slapstick cinema and a hallmark of Lewis’s career as both actor and director. Some critics found the plot thin, but the comed...

Title: The Pink Panther Fan Favorites Cartoon Collection Runtime: 168 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: The Pink Panther Franchise Position: N/A A curated selection of 24 classic Pink Panther shorts, voted by fans to celebrate the character's 50th anniversary. Ratings: My Rating: 7.6/10 (Average of IMDb: 7.5, Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 7.8, Metacritic User Score: 7.2, TMDb: 7.9) The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 7.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: Not Available Metacritic: Not Available TMDb: 7.9/10 Plot Summary: The Pink Panther Fan Favorites Cartoon Collection is a compilation of 24 animated shorts featuring the iconic Pink Panther character. These selections were chosen based on fan votes to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Pink Panther franchise in 2014. The collection showcases the panther's mischievous adventures, often involving humorous interactions with various characters and situations. Critics Review: This collection offe...

Dracula, Dead and Loving It Runtime: 86 minutes Rating: PG-13 Release Date: August 18, 1995 Studio: Universal Pictures Franchise: Mel Brooks Franchise Position: 10 Run time in minutes: 86 Tagline: The bite is back! Ratings My rating: 6.4 /10 Dove Foundation rating: N/A IMDb rating: 5.9 /10 Rotten Tomatoes rating: 49% Metacritic rating: 48% Plot Summary A comedic take on the Dracula story, following the bumbling vampire Count Dracula as he tries to claim his latest victim. Full of slapstick and parody of classic vampire tropes. Critics Review Received mostly negative to mixed reviews, considered a weaker Brooks film. Critics felt the humor was less fresh and more predictable. Christian Perspective Contains vampire and occult themes, which some Christians may find objectionable. Overall light in tone, but supernatural elements may be concerning to sensitive viewers. Family Friendliness Rated PG-13 for some scary images and mild language. Suitable for older teens and adults.

Robin Hood: Men in Tights Runtime: 94 minutes Rating: PG-13 Release Date: July 9, 1993 Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Mel Brooks Franchise Position: 9 Run time in minutes: 94 Tagline: The legend continues. Ratings My rating: 6.6 /10 Dove Foundation rating: N/A IMDb rating: 6.7 /10 Rotten Tomatoes rating: 54% Metacritic rating: 56% Plot Summary A goofy parody of Robin Hood legends where Robin and his Merry Men fight the evil Prince John with slapstick and puns. Critics Review Mixed reviews; some enjoyed silly humor, others saw it as weaker than Brooks’ earlier works. Christian Perspective Mild language and some adult jokes; less suitable for younger viewers. Family Friendliness Rated PG-13 for language and mild suggestive content; better for teens and adults.

Spaceballs Runtime: 96 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: June 24, 1987 Studio: MGM/UA Entertainment Franchise: Mel Brooks / Spaceballs  Franchise Position: 8 / 1 Run time in minutes: 96 Tagline: May the schwartz be with you. Ratings My rating: 7.1 /10 Dove Foundation rating: N/A IMDb rating: 7.1 /10 Rotten Tomatoes rating: 57% Metacritic rating: 51% Plot Summary Spaceballs is a 1987 sci-fi parody film directed by Mel Brooks. The story follows Lone Starr, a rogue pilot, and his half-man, half-dog sidekick Barf, who are hired to rescue Princess Vespa from the clutches of the evil Dark Helmet. Dark Helmet, under the command of President Skroob, plans to steal the air from the peaceful planet Druidia. Along the way, Lone Starr and Barf encounter comedic obstacles and characters, including the wise Yogurt, who teaches them the ways of the Schwartz, a mystical force. The film parodies popular science fiction franchises, particularly Star Wars, and is known for its slapstick humor and memo...

Silent Movie Runtime: 83 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: July 15, 1976 Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: Mel Brooks Franchise Position: 5 Run time in minutes: 83 Tagline: The funniest silent movie ever made. Ratings My rating: 6.5 /10 Dove Foundation rating: N/A IMDb rating: 6.3 /10 Rotten Tomatoes rating: 75% Metacritic rating: 41% Plot Summary A mostly silent comedy about filmmakers trying to save their studio by making a silent movie. Full of slapstick and visual gags paying homage to early cinema. Critics Review Mixed at release but now appreciated for nostalgia and inventive visual comedy. Christian Perspective Clean humor with little objectionable content. Lighthearted and family-friendly. Family Friendliness Rated PG; suitable for families and children who enjoy slapstick.

Young Frankenstein Runtime: 105 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: December 15, 1974 Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Mel Brooks Franchise Position: 4 Runtime in minutes: 105 Tagline: The Legend Lives Again! Ratings My rating: 8.4 /10 Dove Foundation rating: N/A IMDb rating: 8.0 /10 Rotten Tomatoes rating: 94% Metacritic rating: 84% Plot Summary In this loving parody of classic horror films, a descendant of Dr. Frankenstein inherits the family estate and decides to continue his grandfather’s experiments, leading to hilarious and spooky adventures. The film masterfully blends slapstick comedy with classic horror elements. Critics Review Young Frankenstein is celebrated for its brilliant comedic timing, clever script, and respectful parody of the horror genre. It remains one of Mel Brooks’ most beloved works. Christian Perspective Though primarily comedy, the film contains little objectionable content. It mocks superstition and encourages rational thinking, which can align with Christia...

The Boatniks Runtime minutes: 92 minutes Age rating: G Studio: Walt Disney Productions Franchise: Franchise Position: Tagline: The wacky, crazy comedy on the water! Trailer link : Cast list : Ratings My rating: 7 Dove Foundation rating: Approved for All Ages IMDb rating: 6.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes rating: 63% Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary The Boatniks is a lighthearted comedy about a bumbling Coast Guard officer assigned to keep order at a busy harbor. His attempts to maintain peace are complicated by a pair of inept criminals trying to pull off a heist, as well as romantic entanglements and slapstick mishaps. The film blends humor with nautical adventure, creating a fun family movie. Critics Review Critics found The Boatniks to be a mild, pleasant comedy with some amusing moments but little originality. It was praised for its light tone and family-friendly humor but seen as a modest entry in Disney’s live-action lineup. The performances and seaside setting were noted as highlights...

The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again Release Year: 1979 Runtime: 88 minutes Age Rating: G Studio: Walt Disney Productions Franchise: The Apple Dumpling Gang Franchise Position: 2 (sequel) Tagline: More mischief. More mayhem. Same lovable bunglers! Trailer link:   Cast link:  Ratings My Rating: 6.5/10 Dove Foundation Rating: Approved for All Ages — family-friendly comedy with mild slapstick and a humorous cross-dressing scene IMDb Rating: 5.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes : 53% Metacritic: No score available Plot Summary Amos and Theodore, hoping to reform, arrive in Junction City only to be mistaken for bank robbers and pursued by Marshal Woolly Bill Hitchcock. After fleeing to Fort Concho, they accidentally burn down the fort and are jailed. They become involved in a train robbery plot but inadvertently foil the criminals, earning a pardon and a chance at a fresh start. Critics Review Critics had mixed reactions. Some praised the comedic talents of Tim Conway and Don Knotts, while other...

The Apple Dumpling Gang Release Year: 1975 Runtime: 100 minutes Age Rating: G Studio: Walt Disney Productions Franchise: Jack M. Bickham Adaptation Franchise Position: Original (NOT a sequel) Tagline: Wanted: For chicanery, skulduggery, tomfoolery, and habitual bungling! Trailer link : Cast link :  Ratings My Rating: 7.5/10 Dove Foundation Rating: Approved for All Ages — features clean, gentle humor with brief mild violence and language  IMDbz Rating : 7.0/10  Rotten Tomatoes: Critics around 60% — a light family comedy with nostalgic charm  Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary Set against the backdrop of the Wild West in 1879, charming gambler Russell Donovan (Bill Bixby) finds himself unexpectedly tasked with caring for three rambunctious orphans—Bobby, Clovis, and Celia—when he’s tricked into taking custody of them. The mischievous trio unknowingly discover a massive gold nugget, turning Quake City upside-down as greedy townsfolk try to sway custody and outlaws Amos and Th...

Airplane II: The Sequel Runtime: 84 minutes Rating: PG Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: Airplane Franchise Position: 2 Tagline: “We’re still not sure what it was, but it sure scared us.” Trailer link:  Cast link:   Ratings My Rating: 7/10 IMDb Rating : 4.8/10  Rotten Tomatoes : 23%  Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary Airplane II: The Sequel continues the absurdist comedy of the original but takes the action into space. When a computer-controlled space shuttle called the Mayflower 1 malfunctions, the same reluctant hero, Ted Striker (Robert Hays), must again overcome his fears to save the day. Filled with similar parody humor, slapstick, and sight gags, the film spoofs sci-fi and disaster tropes but was generally less well received than the original. Despite mixed reviews, it offers moments of fun and extends the franchise’s quirky style into outer space. Critics Review Critics largely view Airplane II as a pale shadow of the original’s lightning-fast wit and inventive...

Airplane! Runtime: 88 minutes Rating: PG Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: None Franchise Position: N/A Tagline: “From the creators of The Kentucky Fried Movie.” Trailer link Cast link Ratings My Rating: 9/10 IMDb Rating : 7.7/10  Rotten Tomatoes : 97%  Metacritic : 72  Plot Summary Airplane! is a classic spoof comedy that hilariously parodies disaster films, especially those about airplane crises. When the passengers and crew of a commercial flight fall ill due to food poisoning, a traumatized ex-fighter pilot named Ted Striker (Robert Hays) must overcome his fears to land the plane safely. Filled with absurd visual gags, rapid-fire jokes, and deadpan delivery, the film lampoons everything from melodramatic dialogue to slapstick physical comedy, all while delivering a surprisingly heartfelt story about courage and redemption. Critics Review Critics universally praise Airplane! as one of the greatest comedy films ever made, applauding its sharp wit, clever parody, and...

Title: Africa Screams Runtime: 78 minutes Age Rating: NR Studio: United Artists Franchise: None Franchise Position #: N/A Tagline: “The wildest comedy safari ever!” Trailer link Cast list Ratings My rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: Not rated (https://dove.org) IMDb : 6.3/10  Rotten Tomatoes : No score available  Metacritic : No score available  Plot Summary “Africa Screams” is a slapstick comedy featuring the misadventures of two hapless men who embark on a wild safari in Africa. The film centers around Ted, played by Abbott, and Spike, played by Costello, as they navigate jungle mishaps, wild animals, and local tribes in a quest for fortune. The comedic duo encounters absurd situations and chaotic escapades, combining physical comedy with witty banter throughout the adventure. Critics Review Though “Africa Screams” showcases the classic Abbott and Costello slapstick humor, critics note that it is lighter on clever writing compared to their best works. The film’s comed...

The Absent-Minded Professor Runtime: 98 minutes Age Rating: G Release Date: July 27, 1961 Studio: Walt Disney Productions Franchise: Flubber Franchise Position: 1st Professor Ned Brainard invents a revolutionary substance called Flubber (flying rubber) that allows objects to defy gravity. He attempts to save his financially struggling college while dealing with romantic entanglements and comedic mishaps. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 88% (Critics), 79% (Audience) Metacritic: 80/100 Plot Summary: Professor Ned Brainard, a brilliant but absent-minded scientist, discovers a rubber-like substance capable of flight. Using Flubber, he performs incredible stunts, revolutionizes transportation, and attempts to save his college from bankruptcy. The film blends science-fiction whimsy with comedy and romance, making it a timeless Disney classic. Critics Review: Critics praised the film’s creativity, humor, and charming performances, particularly...

Title: The Muppets Most Wanted Year : 2014 Franchise : The Muppets Franchise #: 8th theatrical Muppet film MPAA Rating : PG  for some mild action TV Parental Guidelines : TV-PG equivalent Total Runtime: 107 minutes Tagline : "Taking the world by farce." Main Cast Ricky Gervais as Dominic Badguy Ty Burrell as Inspector Jean Pierre Napoleon Tina Fey as Nadya Steve Whitmire as Kermit the Frog, Beaker, Statler, and others Eric Jacobson as Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal, Sam the Eagle, and others Dave Goelz as Gonzo, Dr. Bunsen Honeydew, Waldorf, and others Bill Barretta as Rowlf, Dr. Teeth, Pepe, and others Matt Vogel as Constantine, Floyd Pepper, and others Reviews Synopsis This one picks up right after The Muppets (2011) and jumps straight into the action—literally, with a big musical number. The Muppets head out on a world tour, only to be swept up in a criminal plot when a Kermit look-alike named Constantine (the "World's Most Dangerous Frog") switches place...

Title : Gus Year : 1976 MPAA Rating: G (General Audiences) Total Runtime : 96 minutes Tagline : “The six-foot donkey who kicks 100-yard field goals… and doesn’t even try!” Main Cast Edward Asner as Hank Cooper Don Knotts as Coach Venner Gary Grimes as Andy Petrovic Tim Conway as Crankcase Tom Bosley as Cal Wilson Dick Enberg as Himself Bob Crane as Pepper Liberty Williams as Debbie Kovac Gus the Donkey as Himself Reviews Synopsis This one’s an old-school Disney sports comedy about… get this—a mule that becomes a professional football kicker. Yes, a mule. His name’s Gus, and he comes from Yugoslavia (yep, 70s-style cultural humor ahead). When a struggling football team discovers Gus can kick a football like a cannon, they make him the star player. Naturally, chaos ensues, laughs are had, and yes—there’s even a bad guy or two trying to sabotage the hoofed hero. Overview Gus is one of those goofy, offbeat Disney movies from the 70s where you just have to go along for the ride. It’s compl...

The Smurfs Year : 2011 Franchise : Smurfs Franchise # : 1 (of 5, including the 2025 reboot) Total Runtime : 103 minutes MPAA Rating : PG (for some mild rude humor and action) Tagline : "Smurf Happens." Main Cast Neil Patrick Harris – Patrick Winslow Jayma Mays – Grace Winslow Hank Azaria – Gargamel Sofía Vergara – Odile Jonathan Winters – Papa Smurf (voice) Katy Perry – Smurfette (voice) Alan Cumming – Gutsy Smurf (voice) Anton Yelchin – Clumsy Smurf (voice) George Lopez – Grouchy Smurf (voice) Reviews Synopsis When the evil wizard Gargamel chases the Smurfs out of their magical village, they fall through a portal and end up smack in the middle of Central Park—New York City, that is. Now these tiny blue troublemakers must navigate the big city, find a way home, and keep their secrets safe from their nemesis, all while helping a young couple with their own life crisis. Overview This movie blends live-action with CGI to reintroduce the Smurfs to a new generation. It’s goofy, fa...