Maybe you’re looking to save a few bucks or the current theater choices just aren’t cutting it. Whatever the case may be, sometimes it’s just as nice to sit at home and watch a good flick. Take a look at this week’s picks for some At-Home Alternatives to the weekly cinema options.
Instead of The Family, watch My Cousin Vinny
Luc Besson’s new dark comedy The Family stars Robert De Niro as an ex mobster that goes into witness protection with his wife and two kids. The movie looked like it could be fun if it hit the right notes, but critics seem to be all over the board with it. If you’re looking to stay at home with another comedy of accents, try out the classic My Cousin Vinny. Starring Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei, the movie draws out many funny performances and actually shows a fairly accurate portrayal for courtroom procedures. [The Family trailer] / [My Cousin Vinny trailer]
Instead of Insidious Chapter 2, watch The Collection
With Insidious Chapter 2, director James Wan decided to forgo some of the first film’s tension in order to wrap up the story of the Lambert family. It was a bold move, but one that felt necessary to close the gap and lay ground work for future sequels. If you’re looking for more horror at home, take a look at another young franchise with 2012’s The Collection. Also continuing it’s story, the film follows a former survivor of the serial killer known as The Collector as he joins forces with a group of people set on taking down the baddie. [Insidious Chapter 2 trailer] / [The Collection trailer]
World War Z
When production issues started piling on for World War Z, fans turned to skeptics and negative speculation grew. But it turned out to be one of the most surprising movies of the summer, earning praise from critics and scoring Brad Pitt his highest grossing movie to date. The movie is an enjoyable thriller that excels thanks to it’s focus on humanity and overwhelming sense of immediacy. It’s easy to get wrapped up and wisked away before you even notice where the story has moved you to. This is a perfect movie to experience on your couch at home and will play well to most audiences. [World War Z trailer] / [Buy it on Amazon]
American Mary (2012)
I reviewed the trailer for American Mary back on The Gore Report a little while ago and have been excited to see it ever since (the fact that it made Rhino’s top 5 horror films of 2012 didn’t hurt either.) Luckily for me, the film just popped up on Netflix Instant Watch prompting an almost immediate viewing. The movie is a strange, bloody experiment that is occasionally unfocused but in large part grounded by a stellar performance from it’s lead, Katharine Isabelle. She’s hilarious and vulnerable and sexy all at the same time – completely selling the character. It’s not without it’s flaws but as overall experience goes, American Mary succeeds in taking you on an odd yet gratifying journey.
American Mary Netflix Synopsis: Medical student Mary Mason is becoming dissatisfied with her path in life, mostly because she’s piling up massive debt. But when she’s offered a lucrative opportunity to get involved in extreme body-modification surgeries, she jumps at the chance.
What do you plan on watching this week, at home or otherwise? What do you think of my choices?