This month in cinema has been a tale of two extremes, with some films delivering captivating stories while others left much to be desired. Among the standout performances was Chris Pratt and Millie Bobby Brown in "The Electric State," which unfortunately failed to live up to its potential despite an impressive budget. On the other hand, "The Penguin Lessons" offered a touching narrative set against the backdrop of Argentina’s tumultuous history. Meanwhile, "The Assessment" presented a thought-provoking exploration of parenthood in a dystopian future, while "The Alto Knights" struggled under the weight of its star-studded cast. Lastly, Disney's live-action "Snow White" faced criticism from multiple angles, yet still managed to charm audiences with Rachel Zegler’s performance.
The following review dives into the successes and failures of these films, examining how each one approached its unique challenges. While some movies dazzled with their storytelling and execution, others stumbled over clichés or missteps in tone. This analysis explores both the highs and lows of March’s cinematic offerings, offering insights into what worked—and what didn’t—for each film.
A Futuristic Tale That Falters
"The Electric State" promised a visually stunning journey inspired by Simon Stålenhag's celebrated novel. Unfortunately, the adaptation fell short, replacing the book's poignant melancholy with uninspired humor and unconvincing character portrayals. Despite its astronomical budget, the film struggled to capture the essence that made the original work so beloved.
At its core, "The Electric State" aimed to translate the ethereal beauty of Stålenhag's illustrations into a live-action experience. However, the screenplay undermined this effort by prioritizing spectacle over substance. Chris Pratt and Millie Bobby Brown were tasked with carrying the narrative, but their performances lacked depth and authenticity. The result was a disjointed story that relied too heavily on special effects rather than emotional resonance. Instead of crafting a meaningful connection between characters and audience, the film descended into a chaotic blend of action sequences and awkward dialogue.
An Unlikely Friendship Amidst Turmoil
In stark contrast to "The Electric State," "The Penguin Lessons" delivered a heartfelt story about companionship and resilience. Set during Argentina’s Dirty War, the film follows Steve Coogan as he forms an unlikely bond with a rescued penguin. Though tonally inconsistent, the movie succeeded in evoking strong emotions through its central relationship.
Directed by Peter Cattaneo, "The Penguin Lessons" balanced whimsy with tragedy, creating a narrative that resonated deeply with viewers willing to overlook its uneven pacing. Coogan’s portrayal of a cynical teacher transformed by his interactions with the penguin showcased his versatility as an actor. By blending humor and pathos, the film achieved a rare harmony that appealed to broad audiences seeking both entertainment and meaning. Despite its flaws, "The Penguin Lessons" proved that even amidst historical darkness, moments of light can shine brightly.
A Speculative Look at Parenthood
"The Assessment" stood out as a daring exploration of themes often overlooked in mainstream cinema. Elizabeth Olsen and Himesh Patel portrayed a couple navigating the complexities of reproduction in a resource-scarce society. Alicia Vikander’s nuanced performance as the titular assessor added layers of intrigue to the narrative, elevating it beyond conventional sci-fi tropes.
Fleur Fortuné’s directorial debut demonstrated remarkable ambition, interweaving multiple narratives to challenge societal norms around family and responsibility. Through meticulous attention to detail, the film created a world where every decision carried profound consequences. From its haunting score to its striking visuals, "The Assessment" invited viewers to reflect on their own values and priorities. Ultimately, the movie succeeded not just in entertaining but also in provoking thoughtful discussions long after the credits rolled.
A Mobster Saga Lost in Translation
"The Alto Knights" assembled a dream team of filmmakers and actors, only to deliver a forgettable entry in the gangster genre. Robert De Niro starred alongside Nicholas Pileggi’s script and Barry Levinson’s direction, yet the final product felt hollow and derivative. What could have been a masterpiece instead became a missed opportunity for greatness.
De Niro’s dual role as Frank Costello and Vito Genovese highlighted his dedication, though the surrounding material failed to match his commitment. The screenplay lacked originality, relying on tired clichés instead of fresh perspectives. Levinson’s direction further compounded these issues, resulting in a film that felt more like a retread of past successes than a bold new venture. As comparisons to classic mobster films inevitably arose, "The Alto Knights" revealed itself as a pale imitation rather than a worthy successor.