Six 100-Word Movie Reviews

"The Burbs" (2026), Creator: Celeste Hughey, Actors: Keke Palmer, Jack Whitehall

Somehow, I got through this series. I was expecting something different. “The Burbs” takes a psychological thriller approach until it becomes a soap opera, where all the characters talk about random things. I am a Keke Palmer fan, but she felt so misplaced. Credits also include Jack Whitehall, Julia Duffy, Paula Pell, Mark Proksch, and Kapil Talwalker. The actors look like they’re having a fun time working with each other in scenes, but the dialogue and the storyline are so forced. The writing isn’t so good, and the actors try their best. It has to end with a cliffhanger ending.

"The Musical" (2026), Director: Giselle Bonilla, Actors: Will Brill, Rob Lowe, Gillian Jacobs

I watched “The Musical” (2026) at the virtual Sundance Film Festival. I am both surprised this film got made, and yet it is darkly hilarious. I always enjoy theater films. This film reminded me of “School of Rock” (2003). Doug (Will Brill) is a questionable drama teacher. A talented kid ensemble stars in the film. Like their characters, they are theater kids in real life. In Giselle Bonilla’s directorial debut, she wanted to take a unique approach to viewing the world. I wish I could have been sitting in the audience to see the reaction to the nightmare signature play.

"Rental Family" (2025), Director: Hikari, Actors: Brendan Frasier, Takehiro Hira

“Rental Family” is unique. I wanted to see it in theaters. The story follows Phillip (Brendan Frasier), an American actor living in Tokyo, who begins working for a company that rents out stand-in family members. I was drawn to it for Brendon Frasier’s starring role. I am so happy to see Frasier gaining stronger roles. He has a warm personality that he blends into his characters. Phillip and Mia’s (Shannon Mahina Gorman) interactions are sweet. It’s a heartfelt and quietly moving drama directed by Hikari. The film beautifully captures connection, cultural differences, and subtle humor. Find it streaming on Netflix.

"Eternity" (2025), Director: David Freyne, Actors: Miles Teller, Elizabeth Olsen, Callum Turner

Ghost stories are my favorite. “Eternity” (2025) is about a couple reuniting in the afterlife. Joan (Elizabeth Olsen) has to decide between spending eternity with her husband, Larry (Miles Teller), or Luke (Callum Turner), the man she knew 60 years ago. The film explores a unique and colorful world: the afterlife. I like the concept, but it wears thin. David Freyne doesn’t develop the script to screen in fresh and surprising ways. The actors try too hard in the comedy, going on longer than they should. However, the moral about happiness is important. Remind yourself of what makes you happy.

"KPop Demon Hunters" (2025), Director: Maddie Kang, Voice Actors: Arden Cho, May Hong, Ji-young Yoo

It’s amazing what you can do with animation. “KPop Demon Hunters” (2025) is an electrifying animated adventure that blends action, humor, and music. The film follows a K-pop girl group who secretly battle supernatural threats. This film felt like a concert. ‘Golden’ is a beautiful song performed with strong vocal power by the voice actors. Director Maddie Kang made this film for her 12-year-old self. The animation is vibrant and stylish. We’re all fighting demons. The one thing we should never do is fight them alone. “KPop Demon Hunters” is a bold and creative animated film that’s an absolute blast.

"The Lovebirds" (2020) Director: Michael Showalter, Actors: Issa Rae, Kumail Nanjiani

In February 2020, I saw the preview to “The Lovebirds” on the last day I would see a movie in theaters until June 2021. I said I wanted to see “The Lovebirds.” Six years later, I finally found it on Netflix. “The Lovebirds” is a hilarious story about running from the law. Issa Rae (Leilani) and Kumail Nanjiani (Jibran) are a sensation. As they’re trying to figure out their flailing relationship, they wind up in unbelievable shenanigans and meet eccentric people. You have to watch to believe. Shut your mind off and enjoy this film. I was laughing and laughing.