At The Movies

Walking Tall: Lone Justice  Age Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 87 minutes Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Walking Tall Franchise Position: 5 Chris Vaughn continues his fight against crime and corruption, determined to protect his hometown and uphold justice after returning as a civilian hero. Ratings:  My Rating: 5.6/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 5.3/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 5.6/10 Plot Summary: Following the events of The Payback, Chris Vaughn faces new criminal threats in his hometown. He uses his experience, courage, and determination to confront local crime and protect the community, dealing with escalating dangers while upholding his personal sense of justice. Critics Review: The film, another direct-to-video sequel, received largely negative reviews. Critics noted weak storytelling, lack of originality, and formulaic action. While fans of the franchise appreciated the continuation of Chris Vaughn’s v...

Walking Tall: The Payback  Age Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 86 minutes Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Walking Tall Franchise Position: 4 A former soldier takes on organized crime and corruption in his small hometown after returning to protect his community and loved ones. Ratings:  My Rating: 5.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 5.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 5.5/10 Plot Summary: Chris Vaughn returns to his hometown to find crime and corruption still rampant. Using his skills and determination, he takes the law into his own hands to protect the town and his family. The story follows his confrontation with criminal elements while navigating personal risks and the responsibilities of leadership. Critics Review: The film, a direct-to-video sequel, received mixed to negative reviews. Critics noted that it lacked the energy and star power of the 2004 theatrical release, and the plot was formulaic and predictable....

Cinderella III: A Twist in Time Age Rating: G Runtime: 73 minutes Studio: Walt Disney Television Animation / Walt Disney Home Entertainment Franchise: Cinderella Franchise Position: 3 When the stepmother gains control of the magical wand, she reverses Cinderella’s happily ever after, and Cinderella must fight to reclaim her rightful place and true love. Ratings: My Rating: 7.1/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved for All Ages IMDb: 6.1/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 53% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 6.4/10 Plot Summary: In this direct-to-video sequel, Lady Tremaine steals the Fairy Godmother’s wand and uses it to turn back time, switching the Prince’s affections to Anastasia. Cinderella must rely on her courage, kindness, and resourcefulness to undo the spell, prove her worth, and restore the love and happiness she earned. The story emphasizes standing firm in the face of adversity and trusting in the power of goodness and true love to triumph over deceit. Critics Review: Critics generally viewed Cinderella ...

Cinderella II: Dreams Come True Age Rating: G Runtime: 74 minutes Studio: Walt Disney Television Animation / Walt Disney Home Entertainment Franchise: Cinderella Franchise Position: 2 Cinderella adjusts to royal life through a trio of new stories that explore friendship, humility, and staying true to oneself — even in a palace. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved for All Ages IMDb: 5.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 11% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 6.0/10 Plot Summary: This direct-to-video sequel to the 1950 Disney classic is divided into three heartwarming stories. In the first, Cinderella learns to follow her heart instead of rigid royal rules while planning a grand ball. In the second, Jaq the mouse wishes to become human to be more helpful to Cinderella, only to learn he’s valuable just as he is. In the final story, Cinderella’s stepsister Anastasia falls in love with a kind baker, showing that even the most unlikely hearts can change. The stories tie together with a theme of gr...

A Christmas Story 2 Age Rating: PG Runtime: 85 minutes Studio: Warner Home Video Franchise: A Christmas Story Franchise Position: 2 Ralphie Parker returns — now a teenager with a new Christmas wish: his very own 1939 Mercury convertible. Ratings: My Rating: 5.2/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved for Ages 12+ IMDb: 3.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 37% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 4.9/10 Plot Summary: Set six years after the events of the original film, A Christmas Story 2 follows sixteen-year-old Ralphie Parker as he dreams of owning a beautiful 1939 Mercury convertible. When he accidentally damages the car at a dealership, Ralphie, Flick, and Schwartz scramble to earn enough money to pay for the repairs before Christmas. Meanwhile, the Parker family continues their quirky holiday traditions, complete with turkey mishaps and chaotic gift-giving. Despite his missteps, Ralphie learns valuable lessons about honesty, responsibility, and the spirit of giving. Critics Review: Released direct-to-video nearly th...

Batman: Year One MPAA Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 64 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Animation, DC Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Franchise: DC Universe Animated Original Movies Franchise Position: 12 A merciless crime turns a man into an outlaw. Ratings: My Rating: 8.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 6.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 83% (Critics), 69% (Audience) Metacritic: 63/100 TMDb: 6.9/10 Plot Summary: Batman: Year One chronicles the early days of Bruce Wayne's crime-fighting career as he returns to Gotham City and begins his transformation into the masked vigilante known as Batman. The film explores his initial struggles with the Gotham City Police Department, his alliance with Lieutenant James Gordon, and his first encounters with Gotham's criminal underworld, including Selina Kyle, who will become Catwoman. Critics Review: Critics have praised the film for its faithful adaptation of Frank Miller's seminal graphic novel, highlighting its noir-inspired animati...

Batman: The Long Halloween MPAA Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 168 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Animation, DC Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Franchise: DC Universe Animated Original Movies Franchise Position: 46 Gotham's darkest hour has arrived. Ratings: My Rating: 8.5/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 7.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 100% (Critics), 85% (Audience) Metacritic: Not Available TMDb: 7.5/10 Plot Summary: Set early in Batman's career, Batman: The Long Halloween follows the Dark Knight, Commissioner Gordon, and District Attorney Harvey Dent as they form an alliance to dismantle the Falcone crime family. However, their efforts are complicated by a mysterious serial killer named Holiday, who strikes on holidays throughout the year, targeting members of the Falcone family. As the investigation deepens, Batman faces moral dilemmas and confronts the blurred lines between justice and vengeance. Critics Review: Critics have praised the film for its faithful adaptation...

Batman Ninja MPAA Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 85 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Japan, Kamikaze Douga, YamatoWorks Country of Origin: United States, Japan Franchise: DC Universe Animated Original Movies Franchise Position: N/A Gotham's protector becomes a samurai. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 5.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 83% (Critics), 60% (Audience) Metacritic: Not Available TMDb: 6.5/10 Plot Summary: Batman Ninja transports Batman and his rogues' gallery to feudal Japan due to Gorilla Grodd's time displacement device. Stripped of his modern technology, Batman must adapt to the samurai era to confront the Joker, who has become a powerful warlord. As alliances form and betrayals unfold, Batman's ingenuity and martial prowess are put to the ultimate test in a battle for control over Japan. Critics Review: Critics have lauded the film's unique blend of anime aesthetics and traditional Batman storytelling. The fusion of Japanese culture with Goth...

Batman: Gotham by Gaslight MPAA Rating: R Runtime: 78 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Animation Country of Origin: United States Franchise: DC Universe Animated Original Movies Franchise Position: 31 Gotham's darkest hour has arrived. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 6.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 75% (Critics), 68% (Audience) Metacritic: Not Available TMDb: Not Available Plot Summary: Set in an alternate Victorian-era Gotham City, Batman: Gotham by Gaslight follows Bruce Wayne as he dons the mantle of Batman to investigate a series of grisly murders committed by the infamous Jack the Ripper. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Wayne uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the very heart of Gotham. The film presents a unique blend of steampunk aesthetics and classic Batman storytelling, offering a fresh take on the Dark Knight's origins. Critics Review: Critics have generally praised the film for its innovative setting and engaging storyline. The Victorian b...

Batman: Assault on Arkham MPAA Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 75 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Animation Country of Origin: United States Franchise: DC Universe Animated Original Movies Franchise Position: 21 Get ready to root for the bad guys. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 7.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 78% (Critics), 88% (Audience) Metacritic: 63/100 TMDb: 7.1/10 Plot Summary: Batman: Assault on Arkham focuses on the Suicide Squad, a team of incarcerated supervillains assembled by Amanda Waller for a covert mission. Tasked with breaking into Arkham Asylum to retrieve stolen information from the Riddler, the squad faces numerous challenges, including the Joker's interference. Meanwhile, Batman works to prevent a bomb planted by the Joker from detonating in Gotham City. The film intertwines the squad's heist with Batman's efforts, leading to a high-stakes confrontation. Critics Review: Critics have praised the film for its mature themes, engaging storyline...

Batman: Soul of the Dragon MPAA Rating: R Runtime: 83 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Animation Country of Origin: United States Franchise: DC Universe Animated Original Movies Franchise Position: 44 Tagline: A martial arts-infused Elseworlds adventure featuring Batman and his allies. Ratings: My Rating: 7.1/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 6.1/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 93% (Critics), 93% (Audience) Metacritic: Not Available TMDb: Not Available Plot Summary: Set in the 1970s, Batman: Soul of the Dragon presents an Elseworlds tale where Bruce Wayne trains under the tutelage of O-Sensei, alongside fellow martial artists Richard Dragon, Lady Shiva, and Ben Turner (Bronze Tiger). When their former master is killed and a mystical gate is opened, the group reunites to combat the cult Kobra, led by Jeffrey Burr, who seeks to harness the power of the serpent god Nāga. The film blends elements of martial arts cinema with superhero action, offering a stylized homage to '70s action films. Criti...

Justice League: Warworld MPAA Rating: R Runtime: 89 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Animation Country of Origin: United States Franchise: DC Universe Animated Original Movies Franchise Position: 55 The Justice League must unite to liberate a gladiatorial world ruled by tyranny. Ratings: My Rating: 5.3/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 5.3/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 43% (Critics), 23% (Audience) Metacritic: Not Available TMDb: Not Available Plot Summary: In Justice League: Warworld, Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman are abducted and transported to Warworld, a brutal gladiatorial planet. Stripped of their powers, they must navigate various dystopian arenas and forge alliances with the oppressed inhabitants to overthrow the tyrannical regime. The film explores themes of resistance, unity, and the enduring spirit of justice. Critics Review: Critics have offered mixed reviews for Justice League: Warworld. Some praise the film's ambitious storytelling and unique setting, while others critiq...

Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning Runtime: 72 min Studio: Walt Disney Television Animation Franchise: Little Mermaid Franchise Position: 3 Based on: Fairy Tale A prequel to the original film, this story explores Ariel’s early life under King Triton’s strict rules. Ariel discovers her passion for music and challenges her father’s restrictions while forming new friendships and standing up for her dreams. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0 The Dove Foundation: G IMDb: 6.1 Rotten Tomatoes: 63 Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Young Ariel longs for freedom and self-expression under her father’s strict rules banning music. When a mysterious pirate ship threatens the kingdom, Ariel uses her courage, ingenuity, and love for music to overcome obstacles and inspire change. The film emphasizes following one’s heart responsibly while respecting others. Critics Review: The prequel received mixed reviews, with critics praising the musical numbers and character development but noting it lacked the originality and c...

Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea Runtime: 76 min Studio: Walt Disney Television Animation Franchise: Little Mermaid Franchise Position: 2 Based on: Fairy Tale Ariel’s daughter, Melody, feels trapped on land and dreams of exploring the sea. She encounters new friends and adventures while confronting Ursula’s evil twin, Morgana, learning lessons about courage, family, and responsibility. Ratings: My Rating: 7.2 The Dove Foundation: G IMDb: 6.3 Rotten Tomatoes: 69 Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Melody, Ariel and Eric’s daughter, longs to experience the ocean world. She defies warnings and discovers hidden dangers when she encounters Morgana, who seeks revenge against Ariel. With guidance from her family and friends, Melody learns about bravery, ethical decision-making, and the importance of trusting her loved ones. Critics Review: Critics generally viewed the film as a charming but minor sequel. The animation was praised for maintaining Disney’s quality, while the story received mixed ...

Leroy & Stitch Runtime: 79 min Studio: Walt Disney Television Animation Franchise: Lilo & Stitch Franchise Position: 5 The series finale follows Lilo and Stitch as they confront Dr. Hamsterviel and his new experiment, Leroy. The heroes must stop Leroy’s chaos while capturing the remaining experiments and restoring peace to Hawaii. Ratings: My Rating: 7.4 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.7 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Dr. Hamsterviel creates Leroy, a clone of Stitch designed to cause mass destruction. Lilo, Stitch, and their friends must stop Leroy and ensure all the experiments are safely contained. The story focuses on teamwork, moral decision-making, and the importance of family and friendship. Critics Review: The finale was praised for wrapping up the series’ storylines and maintaining the franchise’s emotional heart. While less cinematic than the original films, it successfully conveyed lessons of responsibility and ethical behavior. Christian Perspecti...

Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch Runtime: 75 min Studio: Walt Disney Television Animation Franchise: Lilo & Stitch Franchise Position: 2 Lilo faces a new challenge when Stitch begins to malfunction due to a glitch in his molecular structure. As Stitch’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, Lilo and her family must find a way to save him before the glitch threatens his existence. Ratings: My Rating: 7.1 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.3 Rotten Tomatoes: 73 Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Stitch’s programming error causes him to act unpredictably, putting his relationship with Lilo and her ohana at risk. Lilo learns about perseverance, empathy, and the importance of caring for those we love even when faced with difficult challenges. The film emphasizes the bonds of family and the redemptive power of love. Critics Review: Critics generally gave positive reviews for the film’s heartwarming themes and continuation of the original’s story, though some noted it lacks the creativit...

The Brady Bunch in the White House Runtime: 90 minutes Studio: Paramount Home Entertainment Distributor: Direct-to-Video Country of Origin: United States Franchise: The Brady Bunch Franchise Position: 8 The Brady family travels to Washington, D.C., where humorous political antics ensue as they interact with politicians and staff while trying to resolve a crisis in their typical wholesome fashion. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 IMDb: 5.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: Not Available Metacritic: Not Available TMDb: 5.8/10 MPAA: PG Plot Summary: The Brady family is called to Washington, D.C., and becomes embroiled in a political mix-up. Their trademark innocence and old-fashioned values clash hilariously with modern political life, creating comedic situations while preserving family-friendly humor. Critics Review: Critics viewed the movie as a lighthearted, silly parody appealing mainly to longtime fans. Some criticism focused on predictable humor and low production values. Christian Perspective: The mov...

Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders Runtime: 75 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Animation Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Batman Franchise Position: 1 A faithful animated homage to the 1966 Batman TV series, featuring the original Adam West and Burt Ward voices. Ratings: My Rating: 7.2/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 7.2 Rotten Tomatoes: 82% Metacritic: 65 Plot Summary: The Joker, the Penguin, the Riddler, and Catwoman form an alliance to take down Gotham City. Batman and Robin, voiced by Adam West and Burt Ward, must team up with Batgirl to stop the villains’ elaborate schemes. The story combines campy humor, clever gadgetry, and references to the original 1966 series while presenting a new adventure that tests the dynamic duo’s detective and crime-fighting skills. Critics Review: Critics praised the film’s nostalgic homage to the 1966 Batman TV show, noting the charm of original voice actors and faithful recreation of the campy tone. Some pointed out that the humor is hig...

The Buttercream Gang in Secret of Treasure Mountain Runtime: 80 minutes Studio: Feature Films for Families Country of Origin: United States Franchise: The Buttercream Gang Franchise Position: 2 Eldon Flowers and the Buttercream Gang follow a treasure map to find an ancient Spanish treasure, learning lessons about heroism and selflessness. Ratings: My Rating: 6.0/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Eldon and his friends embark on a treasure hunt to help a friend, facing challenges that teach them about courage, teamwork, and doing the right thing. Critics Review: Noted for its adventurous plot but less emotional depth than the original. Some reliance on treasure hunt clichés. Christian Perspective: Focuses on friendship, selflessness, and helping others, continuing the faith-based themes of the series. Family Friendliness: PG-rated, appropriate for family viewing, mild adventure and peril. Notable Songs: Score by Kurt Bestor

VIDEO: Technical Difficulties Runtime: 5 minutes  Studio: Dominion Media / KP Films / No Budget Productions  Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Constar Franchise Position: N/A A humorous Star Trek fan film parody following the crew’s ongoing misadventures as they try—and hilariously fail—to leave Spacedock. Plot Summary: In Technical Difficulties, the USS Dominion is set to finally depart Spacedock, but as usual, nothing goes as planned. Technical glitches, miscommunications, and crew antics create a cascade of comedic setbacks that prevent the ship from leaving. The episode leans into classic Star Trek tropes while poking fun at them, with exaggerated drama, playful dialogue, and absurd mishaps. Fans of the series will recognize the ongoing joke: how many episodes will it take before they actually get out of port? The humor is self-aware, lighthearted, and embraces the charm of low-budget creativity. Critics Review: As with other Constar Chronicles entries, Technical...