The Fall Catch-Up: What Films Teens Should Be Begging to See
by: keaton marcus
The Big Back-to-School List: What the 13-19 Year-Old’s Should Be Buzzing About
Pennywise on the Hunt, “It: Chapter Two”
What’s it About?
It: Chapter Two centers around the Losers once again, 27 years after the events of Chapter One (see the first one before the sequel), when they are all adults living elsewhere. However, after a call from an old friend, Mike Hanlon, they are forced to come back to Derry to face the murderous, twisted clown, Pennywise in an epic, final battle.
Why to See it:
Sure, the R-rated Stephen King adaptation and sequel came out a couple weeks ago, on the first weekend of September—but teens should still be putting it on their waiting list for the cinema. If you are a fan of horror, author Stephen King, or even just blood in general—this is the right pick for you on a Friday, or Saturday night. Sweet and Sour Movies has a review available, and gave it a certain amount of praise, despite not quite loving it. The recommended age stands at 15+, but with the parents approval, it wouldn’t be horrible if a 14 year old, or even a 13 year old for that matter, walked in to the multiplex looking for Pennywise on the big-screen. Most importantly, go to see it if you really want a fun, Silver Screen fright at the theaters.
2. Brad Pitt in Space, “Ad Astra”
What’s it About?
Astronaut Roy McBride (Brad Pitt) travels to the outer edges of the solar system to find his missing father and unravel a mystery that threatens the survival of our planet. His journey will uncover secrets that challenge the nature of human existence and our place in the cosmos.
Why to See it:
First and foremost, what teen, or even adult doesn’t want to see superstar Brad Pitt kick some ass in the far reaches of space? After his wonderful supporting performance in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, the guy is hotter than ever. Second of all, the reviews are out from the Toronto Film Festival, and their pretty damn good. Also, expect a review from Sweet and Sour Movies from September 19 to the 29th, it could drop anywhere in that period of time, so keep checking!! Also, its rated PG-13, hence, its literally made for the young-adult audience and despite having some adult themes, the teens should keep it on their short list. Go see it in IMAX, Laser Ultra, or 3D starting today—its got positive reviews, the MPAA rating is right, and its got Brad Pitt—what’s gonna go wrong?
3. Stallone Donning the Bow-and-Arrow, “Rambo: Last Blood”
What’s it About?
Almost four decades after he drew first blood, Sylvester Stallone is back as one of the greatest action heroes of all time, John Rambo. Now, Rambo must confront his past and unearth his ruthless combat skills to exact revenge in a final mission. A deadly journey of vengeance, Rambo: Last Blood marks the last chapter of the legendary series.
Why to See it:
One thing that Rambo: Last Blood will hit out of the ballpark is the grisly, bloody violence—which older teens adore, the issue is, 13-15 year old’s might not be lining up to see it. However, while it may be a bit of an honorable mention, especially because Lionsgate is aiming for the adult male audience, I can still imagine 16-19 year old’s grabbing their popcorn. Its also got Sylvester Stallone in all the maddening explosions, and gun fights, donning the bow-and-arrow as John Rambo for the last time (maybe, but if its a hit…). The reviews for the film are still being held back by the studio, which may cause concern that it could be a terrible movie—however, we will see tomorrow or Friday on what the critics think of this 89-minute, Stallone-starring action film. Go see it because: its got Stallone, violence, drugs, and well… Stallone.
4. Joaquin Phoenix Going Crazy, “Joker”
What’s it About?
Joker centers around the iconic arch nemesis and is an original, standalone fictional story not seen before on the big screen. Phillips' exploration of Arthur Fleck, who is indelibly portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix, is of a man struggling to find his way in Gotham's fractured society. A clown-for-hire by day, he aspires to be a stand-up comic at night...but finds the joke always seems to be on him. Caught in a cyclical existence between apathy and cruelty, Arthur makes one bad decision that brings about a chain reaction of escalating events in this gritty character study.
Why to See it:
If you”re a fan of the comic books, or even the DC films in general—this could be perfect for you. Just a warning: its more of a dark character study, than a action-packed superhero flick. Like the lastest Rambo feature, Warner Bros. gave Joker an R MPAA rating, which means its technically for adults—but, the villain dubbed Joker is universally known by all-ages. The reception seems to be generally positive, with critics praising Joaquin Phoenix’s supposedly Oscar-deserving performance, despite a few issues. By the way, look for the Sweet and Sour review from October 4 to the 20th. I’m recommending this for the older teens, but it is more than possible that this is on the younger teens wishlist as well. It’s centering around a villain beloved by the young-adult audience, its got some good reviews, Joaquin Phoenix, and Robert De Niro. Head to see it!!
5. Will Smith Fighting a Clone, “Gemini Man”
What’s it About?
Henry Brogan, an aging government assassin seeking to exit his career, finds himself going up against a younger clone of himself named Junior, who's able to predict his every move. With no other choice, Henry must uncover the truth behind Junior's creation and save him from going down the same dark path he did, all while fighting against a corrupt system determined to "retire" him at all costs.
Why to See it:
Will Smith is back. His most recent film besides Gemini Man is Disney’s live-action remake of Aladdin, which didn’t just gross over one billion worldwide, the critics (Sweet and Sour included) praised Smith’s great performance as the iconic Genie, CGI’d in the new film. So Will Smith is returning after many years of no major roles in box office hits, that’s one terrific reason to see his newest effort. It’s also directed by Ang Lee, who helmed Life of Pi, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and many more critical darlings. While that persuasion is not wholly directed towards the teens, it obviously is a factor. Look for our anticipated review from October 11 to October 25th. Furthermore, its a PG-13 rated action feature, also, with a solidly intriguing premise—perfect for both younger and older teens wanting some expensive, dumb, fun. Reasons to see it: Will Smith has returned, its action-packed with fancy special effects, and its got a great director.