What is there to see for movies this year, and what is actually worth the time to go see in theaters or purchase for home viewing? There are dozens of blockbuster movies scheduled to debut throughout 2023, and even more that aren’t on the radar yet because of being smaller names or not having much advertising yet. What about what’s already out? Let’s talk reviews of the latest films and rate what you may want to see or have already seen.
Evil Dead Rise
This rated R horror movie is based on a continuation of a long-standing horror film franchise, and reviews have been very mixed on it. As far as delivering gore, suspense, and horror in a movie viewers and fans of the franchise alike agreed that Evil Dead Rise delivered. But when it comes to the actual series, it seems a tad repetitive. Critics rated all over the place, but landed on mostly high ratings of around 4 out of 5 stars or 90% overall ratings.
The Super Mario Bros Movie
Already a big name, the Super Mario Bros Movie has become 2023’s top box office film in its early release. This movie combined some big names in comedy and acting into an adventure based off of the hit Mario games that have been around for years. Critics and viewers agree that it isn’t wholly exciting or thrilling, but a very good little story and works in to the concept of Super Mario Bros well giving it an almost 100% audience score, and 50/50 critic rating.
Renfield
Nicholas Cage is back with a role nobody really expected until the early announcements began when Renfield was under way. This movie got a similar 50/50 rating from critics so far, and 8 out of 10 by most audience reviews. It did blend horror and comedy quite well, and most agree that the film could have done better with the actors and concept created. It hit home with how real and honest the basis of the story was and the thread of a lesson throughout.
Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
While not many were expecting the popular game Dungeons and Dragons to turn into a major motion picture for 2023 until it was a concept rolling, this film blew it out of the park in ratings. Both expert critics and audience members alike agreed on a nearly consistent 9 out of 10 or 90% overall rating for this, agreeing that the movie has good spirit, comedy, and a great emotional tie to the whole thing.
John Wick: Chapter 4
Fans of the John Wick franchise often wished that the original series continued back when it did, and Keanu Reeves played a really interesting and well-developed character in this action franchise for multiple movies. But Chapter 4 came out of the box ready, and received over 90% rating overall as well. It piles on to the original story just right, with the same characteristics in John Wick that the audience loved for three movies already.
If you’ve already seen any of this list, you may find yourself agreeing or even disagreeing with some or all of the points we make in the reviews. That’s the really unique thing about entertainment and art forms like movies, music, and performances. Everyone has their own perception and opinions that can alter how they perceive each of these unique creations. Many more movies are coming this year, so keep an eye out!