Weekly Round-Up (3/16/14 - 3/22/14)

Sleeper (Woody Allen) ***1/2 - When people say they prefer the "earlier, funnier" Woody Allen movies, they're essentially referring to this film. A neurotic nerd gets accidentally cryogenically frozen and wakes up 200 years into the future and then gets into a whole lot of trouble. There are lots of wacky, very funny gags in this one despite the fact that it's obviously dated. This is probably the most slapstick-y Woody Allen film I've seen so far. It's worth seeing alone for the scene where Woody fights a giant pudding.

Muppets Most Wanted (James Bobin) *** - One of the opening lines of the first song number says that sequels are not as good as the originals. The line proved to be prophetic because this one is not quite as good as the original reboot back in 2011. But that's not the say this is bad. Far from it. It's still a really fun movie. The songs are not quite as memorable save for a couple. The celebrity cameos are fun and there are lots of genuinely funny gags and jokes. Overall, it's a BIT of a step down from the last one but still very much a worthwhile film.

Short Term 12 (Destin Cretton) ***1/2 - I'm actually kind of surprised by how much I loved this film. Despite the fact that I've been hearing that it's really good. Brie Larson gives an outstanding performance as a young woman who works in a home for troubled/mentally ill teens. This film takes place in the span of about a few days. It's sad without being depressing and sweet without being cloying. Brie Larson is great but she is also supported by a strong supporting cast of mostly relative newcomers. Definitely a film to see. A real gem.