The Skeleton Twins (2014)

4/5

The Skeleton Twins feels eminently indie, thanks to unique characters and astute writing. The movie follows two fraternal twins, Milo (Hader) and Maggie (Wiig), who reunite after Milo's failed suicide attempt. Maggie, married to Lance (Wilson), surreptitiously takes birth control pills while Lance fears he is infertile. Milo, now back in his hometown, starts talking to his old high school English teacher (Burrell), with whom he shared an intimate relationship at age 15.

The content is far from mainstream, and that may put people off, but this is a movie that delivers heart and humor in spades. The acting is incredible, delivering subtle details that reveal a wealth of history between the siblings. The way they bicker and forgive, the way they ruin and rebuild each other, feels so true to life. The movie is filled with ups and downs, drama and comedy, but is well worth the rollercoaster ride. I highly recommend this film.

IMDb link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1571249/

Muppets Most Wanted (2014)

2/5

Muppets Most Wanted is another sequel that seems to serve as little more than the next episode in a TV show instead of a standalone movie. Granted, I haven't seen the first one and I'm not a particular fan of the Muppets, but I thought I'd give this movie a chance. The plot is silly and simple in a kid-friendly way, but there's not a lot of thinking or humor for adults to enjoy. The songs are fine, but the overall writing and acting both felt bland and uninspired. The best thing about this movie was the random cameos (and, of course, seeing Ty Burrell and Tina Fey). I still don't understand the appeal of the Muppets, and this movie doesn't change that. I would only watch this movie if you know you already want to watch this movie.

IMDb link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2281587/