Starring: Charlize Theron, Art Parkinson, Matthew McConaughey, Ralph Fiennes, Brenda Vaccaro, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, George Takei, Rooney Mara, Meyrick Murphy

"He looked into my eyes and uttered four simple words. These words changed everything... You are my quest." - Monkey

Why watch this? This is a superb and visually stunning animated fable.

Dad's Review: The young Kubo, whose left eye was stolen during infancy, must embark on a quest to defeat his mother's evil sisters and greedy grandfather, the Moon King. This features a very complex plot, incredible animation, and wonderful voice performances. It's a fable made for kids, but equally applicable to adults. It confronts with family curses and the true value of our precious memories. 

Starring: Brad Pitt, Anthony Hopkins, Aidan Quinn, Julia Ormond, Henry Thomas, Karina Lombard, Tantoo Cardinal, Gordon Tootoosis, Paul Desmond

"Every warrior hopes a good death will find him." - One Stab

Why watch this? Pulled out of the pages of a romance novel, long-locked Pitt sets every female heart aflutter.

Dad's Review: This sprawling epic follows the fates of three sons whose father owns a expansive ranch in Montana. The three sons enlist and fight in WWI, where one son, Samuel, is killed. Samuel's fiancée, Susannah, they gets wrapped up in a love triangle with the two remaining sons: the proper Alfred and wild Tristan. This lusty romantic adventure will have you bawling over the fates of these forsaken, internally-flawed individuals.

Starring: Suraj Sharma, Irrfan Khan, Adil Hussain, Tabu, Rafe Spall, Gérard Depardieu, James Saito, Jun Naito, Andrea Di Stefano

"Faith is a house with many rooms." - Pi Patel (as an adult)

Why watch this? A man tells his life story, but it feels more like an inspiring dream.

Dad's Review: Pi Patel, in a recanted story of his life, describes a disastrous sinking at sea. He makes it to a lifeboat containing several zoo animals. Eventually only Pi and a Bengal tiger remain. Pi and the tiger forge an unexpected connection that gives the boy daily motivation to live. Director Ang Lee brings this incredible (and called "un-filmable") book to glorious life in this visually stunning movie. Nominated for 11 Oscars, it brought home four, including Best Director and Best Visual Effects.

Starring: Tallulah Bankhead, John Hodiak, Walter Slezak, William Bendix, Mary Anderson, Henry Hull, Hume Cronyn, Heather Angel, Canada Lee

"Dying together's even more personal than living together." - Connie Porter

Why watch this? You'll be very surprised by the plot twists in this early Hitchcock mystery.

Dad's Review: During WWI, a German U-boat torpedoes a cruise ship with English and American civilian passengers. Only eight survive aboard a single lifeboat. A German survivor is also pulled aboard. There is much debate about what to do with (or to) the kraut, since his side shot the torpedo. This survival film (based on the novel by John Steinbeck) is a study in personalities, leadership and how the real person comes out in stressful situations.

Starring: Burt Reynolds, Eddie Albert, Ed Lauter, Michael Conrad, James Hampton, Harry Caesar, John Steadman, Charles Tyner, Mike Henry, Richard Kiel

"How do ya like them apples, Superstar?" – Unger

Why watch this? Prison film-check. Football film-check. Burt Reynolds-check. Let's go!

Dad's Review: This film is loaded with attitude, lots of really attitudes. Former star QB Paul Crewe is sentenced to 18-months in jail at Citrus State Prison. The stern warden, who manages a semi-pro team manned of his guards, sets up an exhibition game against a team of prisoners pulled together by Crewe. This raunchy slug-fest between the undisciplined prisoners and brutal guards is one for the ages. There's lots of blood, sweat and, um, colorful language.

Starring: Jason Patric, Corey Haim, Dianne Wiest, Barnard Hughes, Edward Herrmann, Kiefer Sutherland, Jami Gertz, Corey Feldman

"You're a vampire Michael! My own brother, a goddamn, shit-sucking vampire. You wait 'till mom finds out, buddy!." – Sam Emerson

Why watch this? This is the quintessential 80's film, plus a coven of hair-band vampires.

Dad's Review: Newly divorced mom, Lucy moves her two teen sons, Michael and Sam, to Santa Carla, where the boys' grandfather lives. It takes about a minute for Michael to fall in love with the town's only beautiful girl, Star. This ruffles David, the rather nasty leader of a gang of long-haired brutes. This well-done film successfully skates the fine line between horror, and humor, as the kind-hearted Star desperately tries to save Michael from sharing her same fate.

Starring: Rachel Weisz, Mark Wahlberg, Saoirse Ronan, Susan Sarandon, Stanley Tucci, Michael Imperioli, Rose McIver, Christian Ashdale

"My name is Salmon, like the fish. First name: Susie. I was 14 years old, when I was murdered, on December 6, 1973" - Susie Salmon

Why watch this? This is a painful tale about a young girl's abduction and murder.

Dad's Review: After her untimely death, young Susie Salmon watches over her family from "the in-between". She learns that her neighbor, Harvey, committed her murder is now targeting her sister, Lindsey. Susie meets Harvey's other victims and heaven is pulling at her. Should she pursue vengeance or let go?  Director Jackson's tender hand creates a wonderful film rendition of the 2002 book by Alice Sebold. It is at times hard to watch, but there's a beauty to it.

Starring: Mel Gibson, Joanne Samuel, Hugh Keays-Byrne, Steve Bisley, Tim Burns, Roger Ward, Lisa Aldenhoven, David Bracks

"Any longer out on that road and I'm one of them, you know? A terminal crazy... only I got a bronze badge to say I'm one of the good guys." - Max

Why watch this? This was George Miller's first Mad Max film. It kinda leaves an impression.

Dad's Review: In future Australia, society is breaking down due to fuel shortages. Brutal, murderous gangs rule the roads. The last remaining semblance of law is the Main Force Patrol, where Max is one of its toughest officers. When Max puts gang members in jail, they set in motion their revenge plan: to kill Max's wife and infant son. This crash-fest asks the question: "How many laws does a person have to break to defeat the lawless?"

Starring: Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson, Laura Dern, Alan Alda, Ray Liotta, Julie Hagerty, Merritt Wever

"Getting divorced with a kid is one of the hardest things to do. It's like a death without a body." - Bert Spitz

Why watch this? Divorce is so devastating. On the parents. On the children. Period.

Dad's Review: As I get older, films like this appeal to me more and more. It's simple, without any special effects. It's honest and relatable. At its center is a divorce with a young boy in the middle. The pain is visceral and its hard to sit through. They you realize how damn good these young actors, Johansson and Driver, can act. You are completely drawn in. I felt like I was spying on the couple's private arguments. There are no heroes or villains - just two real people.

Starring: Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, Jeff Daniels, Michael Peña, Sean Bean, Kate Mara, Sebastian Stan

"They say once you grow crops somewhere, you have officially colonized it. So, technically, I colonized Mars. In your face, Neil Armstrong!" - Mark Watney

Why watch this? An impressive one-man show, akin to Cast Away.

Dad's Review: Stranded. Not on an island. Or in the desert. Both of which give you a remote chance of discovery by sheer dumb luck. Here, Matt Damon is stranded the planet Mars. Help, will take months to arrive, if at all. This film is a wonder to experience. The crafty, determined astronaut must do everything he can, utilize every idea he can muster, create inventions to prolong his existence. Only then can he explore ways to get back to home, to Earth.

Starring: Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson, Glynis Johns, Hermione Baddeley, Reta Shaw, Karen Dotrice, Matthew Garber, Elsa Lanchester

"First of all I would like to make one thing perfectly clear... I never explain anything." - Marry Poppins

Why watch this? This timeless Disney classic will leave a big smile on your face.

Dad's Review: In my youth, I avoided this film like the plague. Then my son's high school put on its production and I am glad to admit that I finally get it. It's not just a pointless series of catchy tunes, dance routines, and cartoon-inserted penguins. It has a wonderful, poignant story. For you see, it is not really about Miss Poppins and the children. The redemption being earned within the film is for Mr. Banks and his damaged relationship with his inner child, and thus his own children. I highly suggest viewing Saving Mr. Banks, for more insight.

Starring: Russell Crowe, Paul Bettany, James D'Arcy, Edward Woodall, Chris Larkin, Robert Pugh, Max Benitz, Max Pirkis

"To wives and sweethearts. May they never meet." - Capt. Jack Aubrey

Why watch this? A roaring adventure on the high seas, when men were rough and tough!

Dad's Review: In the early 1800's, a British frigate's sole purpose is to capture and/or destroy a French privateer named Acheron. The determined captain, Jack Aubrey, is a great commander, beloved by his crew. His doctor and good friend, Stephen Maturin, a passive naturalist, often butts heads with his Captain. This Oscar-winning epic just feels like one of the old Hollywood masterpieces. It will hit you like a brisk spray of sea mist!

Starring: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Mendelsohn, Jude Law, Annette Bening, Djimon Hounsou, Lee Pace, Lashana Lynch, Gemma Chan, Clark Gregg

"I'm not gonna fight your war. I'm gonna end it." – Carol Danvers

Why watch this? This is a superb Superhero origin story packed with lots of girl power!

Dad's Review: Carol Danvers thinks she's a Kree, a race of galactic heroes who protect those being attacked by the shape-shifting Skrulls. She even bleeds blue, literally. She also has recurring memories that seem linked to a planet called C-53. She travels there and begins to unravel who she really is. Larson excels as a strong, determined and very tough superhero with powers equal to DC's Superman. She will play a critical role in the Marvel films to come. Kudos also to Samuel L. Jackson as a much younger CGI-ed version of Nick Fury.

Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce, Rebecca Hall, Stephanie Szostak, James Badge Dale, Jon Favreau, Ben Kingsley

"I'm Tony Stark. I build neat stuff, got a great girl, occasionally save the world. So why can't I sleep?" – Tony Stark

Why watch this? It's the second best Iron Man film, thanks to cool effects and a great supporting cast.

Dad's Review: This is an apt send-off for the hero who started the Marvel Universe that we know and love. The plot is like them all: there's a bad guy and a hero needs to stop him. This stands out is when Tony goes into hiding and enlists the help of a small town boy - their interactions are really special. Plus Pepper finally gets a superhero moment! 'Bout damn time!

Starring: Tom Holland, Samuel L. Jackson, Jake Gyllenhaal, Marisa Tomei, Jon Favreau, Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Tony Revolori, Angourie Rice, Remy Hii

"It's easy to fool people when they're already fooling themselves." - Mysterio

Why watch this? Tom Holland's Spider-Man seems more comfortable in his second Spidey film.

Dad's Review: I liked this new version of Spidey way back in Captain America: Civil War. Holland adds a youthful spark to the web-slinger, and he acts like a real high-school student, insecurities and all. This effect-laden extravaganza is best when it's not blowing stuff up, however the action scenes admittedly are pretty bad-ass. It's deep when Parker struggles to get over Tony Stark's death. Plus, as a teenager, he's love-struck, and that gets nice mileage throughout the film.

Starring: Bill Murray, Harvey Atkin, Kate Lynch, Russ Banham, Kristine DeBell, Sarah Torgov, Jack Blum, Keith Knight

"It just doesn't matter if we win or we lose. IT JUST DOESN'T MATTER!" – Tripper

Why watch this? This hidden gem was Bill Murray's first feature film. It's juvenile, but great.

Dad's Review: Summer camps for kids have been a tradition in America for years. This film is about perhaps the coolest camp counselor ever in Murray's Tripper Harrison. He immediately picks his "project", the lonely, awkward kid who has "depression" taped to his forehead. Through a series of outlandish pranks and heartwarming camp competitions, the young lad finds new friends and confidence. It's vintage early Murray right down to his zany song renditions!

Starring: Mira Sorvino, Jeremy Northam, Josh Brolin, Charles S. Dutton, Giancarlo Giannini, F. Murray Abraham, Norman Reedus

"An insect will evolve to mimic its predator. A fly can look like a spider, a caterpillar can look like a snake. The Judas evolved to mimic its predator... us." - Susan Tyler

Why watch this? No good scientific deed goes without consequence, at least not in this film.

Dad's Review: Susan, an entomologist, creates a mutant breed of roach-killing insect to stop the spread of an epidemic. This mutant breed was engineered to die off. A few years later, when folks start disappearing in the subways, we learn that an evolution has taken place; a new creature exists that can mimic human form, and they're hunting. Del Toro creates a grimy subterranean world full of icky creatures and scares galore.

Starring: Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons, Ray McAnally, Aidan Quinn, Cherie Lunghi, Ronald Pickup, Chuck Low, Liam Neeson

"They say it was the will of God that they came out of the jungle and built the mission. They don't understand why God has changed his mind." – Gabriel

Why watch this? It is a daunting duty to bring Christianity to primitive native cultures.

Dad's Review: Jeremy Irons portrays Jesuit priest Father Gabriel, who builds a mission deep in South America's Guarani wilderness. Robert De Niro is Mendoza, a former slave hunter who is converted and joins the Jesuit's efforts. When Spain sells the colony to Portugal, Gabriel and Mendoza refuse to return the natives back into slavery. This epic film, beautifully scored by Ennio Morricone, was nominated for seven Oscars, winning for for Best Cinematography.

Starring: Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Robin Wright, Chris Pratt, Stephen Bishop, Reed Diamond, Brent Jennings

"When your enemy's making mistakes, don't interrupt him. Let him keep going. Say, "Thank you."" – Billy Beane

Why watch this? Sometimes, those who find the unorthodox path, win the prize.

Dad's Review: Brad Pitt portrays Oakland A's GM Billy Beane who is handicapped by salary constraints. To win, he needs to find a competitive advantage. He brings in Yale grad Peter Brand, who suggests using statistical data to analyze and place value on current and new players. Now he just has to get the team manager/coach to buy into it. It's a fun, creative sports film with a great cast.  

Moonrise Kingdom (2012), Director: Wes Anderson, Rated PG-13 for language

Starring: Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, Bob Balaban

"It helps me see things closer. Even if they're not very far away. I pretend it's my magic power." – Suzy, talking about binoculars

Why watch this? Set in a fictitious New England scout camp, two misfits flee to pursue true love.

Dad's Review: Sam, an orphan, escapes Camp Ivanhoe to unite with love interest, Suzy. The two hike to an isolated beach to be together. Meanwhile, the island's police security captain organizes a search party of scouts and family members to find them. There a refreshing, almost unnatural sweetness to this film. At no time do I feel it's going go off the rails. This film, with a big nostalgic heart, says a lot about innocence, and how miss it.

Starring: Margaret Sullivan, James Stewart, Robert Young, Frank Morgan, Robert Stack, Bonita Granville, Irene Rich, Ward Bond, Dan Dailey

"I've never prized safety, Erich, either for myself or my children. I prized courage." – Prof. Viktor Roth

Why watch this? Hitler's sweeping arm of Nationalism was instantly intolerant of non-believers. 

Dad's Review: Filmed primarily in 1939, this was one of Hollywood's first Anti-Nazi films. Of course the Nazi government was furious and they banned all MGM films in Germany. In the film, when Hitler becomes chancellor, a professor, who refuses to preach the Aryan doctrine of racial purity, is boycotted and beaten. People are forced to join the movement, or face dire consequences.

Starring: Boris Karloff, Zita Johann, David Manners, Arthur Byron, Edward Van Sloan

"I destroy this lifeless thing! Thou shall take its place but for a few moments and then... RISE again, even as I have risen!" - Imhotep

Why watch this? Because your Mummy told you to! Besides, it's a horror classic.

Dad's Review: When an archaeological expedition discovers the mummy of high priest Imhotep, a curse falls upon all who disturbed the tomb. Imhotep is revived, escapes, and takes the guise of Egyptian historian, Ardeth Bey. His secret desire is to find and bring back to life, the princess Ankh-esen-amun. Karloff, as with Frankenstein, gives the terrifying mummy an eerie personality and believability. Universal made five more Mummy films starring Lon Chaney Jr.

Starring: Brendon Fraser, Rachel Weisz, John Hannah, Arnold Vosloo, Kevin J. O'Connor, Jonathan Hyde, Oded Fehr, Erick Avari, Stephen Dunham

"Oh, my God. It's a... it's a sarcophagus. Buried at the base of Anubis. He must have been someone of great importance. Or he did something *very* naughty." - Evelyn

Why watch this? Get wrapped up in this remake and compare the two.

Dad's Review: I was really surprised at how watchable this film was. It is an ode to the old action movies. The heroic characters are likeable, and the villains are throw-back dastardly. The Mummy, Imhotep, is a terrifying CGI-generated monstrosity, yet we do sympathize with his desperate pain to reanimate his murdered bride. This is constantly moving, and there are some good performances by Fraser, Weisz and Hannah.

Starring: Adam Baldwin, Joan Cusack, Chris Makepeace, Matt Dillon, Paul Quandt, Hank Salas, Richard Bradley

"Will you be my bodyguard? I'll pay you fifty cents every day. I'll do your homework for you. I'm pretty smart." - Clifford Peache

Why watch this? For a teen film, it is very layered and emotional. I loved it instantly.

Dad's Review: Rich kid Clifford Peache is being bullied. In a moment of desperation, he approaches the school's quiet loner, Ricky, and offers to hire him to be his body guard. He refuses, but the two become friends and he ends up helping Clifford against the gang of bullies. I was really impressed by the performance by Adam Baldwin. He is both menacing and completely vulnerable as he suppresses then confronts the trauma that affects his life.

Starring: Nicolas Cage, Diane Kruger, Sean Bean, Justin Bartha, Jon Voight, Harvey Keitel, Christopher Plummer

"I'm gonna steal the Declaration of Independence." - Ben Gates

Why watch this? It's delightful, fun, and a bit of a surprise coming from Disney studios.

Dad's Review: I avoided many Disney adult films. I trust them more these days. This archeology "find the lost x" film grabs you from the onset and keeps up a pretty frantic (if improbable) pace all the way to the end. In true summer blockbuster form, it's full of nasty villains, handsome heroes, pretty intelligent heroines, near misses and people running, sliding and jumping all over the place. I recommend you not over-analyze, and simply enjoy the quest.

Starring: Adrian Pasdar, Jenny Wright, Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, Jenette Goldstein, Tim Thomerson, Joshua Miller 

"Caleb, those people back there, they wasn't normal. Normal folks, they don't spit out bullets when you shoot 'em, no sir." - Loy Colton

Why watch this? This ultra-violent flick is one of the most Western film of the vampire genre.

Dad's Review: My first thought while watching this was, "How have I not heard more about this film?" Though similar in plot to The Lost Boys, this is a lot grittier. Both films feature a bitten mortal struggling to turn into one of them. This film's coven of blood-suckers is led by Hooker, portrayed by the cool Lance Henrickson. Bill Paxton as Severen, a vicious killer who enjoys sadism. It's one flick you will love to sink your teeth into. 

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