Inception

Inception (2010) – Here’s a fairly fresh, clever idea, a great cast, and some impressive effects; unfortunately, it’s also got some pacing issues, and it lacks the big finish and “wow” moment one hopes for; furthermore, the rules of the premise are obviously just so in order for the film to do exactly what it wants to do; despite all the ballyhoo, this film is actually pretty straightforward. 7

Lone Wolf and Cub: Baby Cart at the River Styx

Lone Wolf and Cub: Baby Cart at the River Styx (#2, 1972) – This sequel’s got more style, less story, and somewhat more weirdness than the original, but it’s just as entertaining. 7

Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance

Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance (#1, 1972) – This is classic stylized samurai violence: Wakayama brings an impressive gravity to the role as he slices and dices folks in cool ways, irrespective of number; there’s even enough story to carry it. 7

Arlington Road

Arlington Road (1999) – This “thriller” is a little preachy, very obvious, and pretty thin in a number of places; heck, the opening credits are the most intense part of the film; it does have a nice little twist at the end, but it isn’t nearly enough. 5

The Sandlot

The Sandlot (1993) – While it makes a nice attempt at looking at things from the kids’ perspective, this film is little more than a disjointed collection of worn out, tiresome and obvious gags and story elements; just getting through it was killing me, Smalls. 5

The Fourth Wise Man

The Fourth Wise Man (1985) – Its liberal additions and changes to the source material are nonetheless true to the spirit of the work, and the end result is a film that despite its flaws is strong on Gospel and emotionally and spiritually powerful. 7

Major League: Back to the Minors

Major League: Back to the Minors (1998) – Even though it’s corny, completely obvious, and hokey as can be, and though it brings old characters back by any contrivance possible, it’s vaguely amusing and enjoyable enough; Bob Uecker is the highlight. 5

Major League II

Major League II (1994) – The baseball is as entertaining as ever, but this time it’s Charlie Sheen’s  romance (and existential crisis) that’s wasting time; Epps is annoying, and even more so is Randy Quaid, but the film’s biggest problem is that it too often feels forced. 5

Major League

Major League (1989) – The baseball is pretty fun, but the Berenger romance side story doesn’t do a thing. 6

The Butterfly Effect

The Butterfly Effect (2004) – The first hour is unpleasant setup for a second hour of unpleasant undoings and redoings; while it has a couple holes and offers no real surprises, it does hold one’s interest; the director’s cut has the most fitting ending. 6