Red 2, 2 Stars

Well, this sequel is similar to the first, but not as good. It drags occasionally and some of the fight scenes go on too long.

Casting is great: Bruce Willis (The Kid) and Helen Mirren (The Queen) dominate the dialogue and each scene they're in; and, Anthony Hopkins (Zorro) and Mary-Louise Parker (TV's West Wing) are quality additions who are experts at delivering their lines with subtlety and yet with emotional depth.

You don't have to have seen the first one - this one would make an enjoyable rental.

Despicable Me 2, 3 Stars

I liked this movie and recommend it. It moves well and, with a young viewing crowd, does not drag so that the audience gets restless. There's not much of a memorable plot (meaning I'm having trouble re-creating it...).

The poster to the left is of an upcoming Minion movie as I wanted to highlight the Minions who are hilarious. The other voices are good, some recognizable, but no one stands out.

A very enjoyable outing at the big screen, with many laugh-out-loud moments.

(P.S. I have changed my rating system and put it directly into the headline of the movie. Depending on time, I might go back and revise the previous posts.)

Before Sunrise (1995), Before Sunset (2004), and Before Midnight (2013)

Well, these are different - a trilogy starring the same actor and actress playing the same characters. It started in 1995 and added the next each nine years.

All the movies are slow - the pacing reminds me of Out of Africa (1985). My lower rating for the first film may reflect my getting used to it.

Ethan Hawke (Dead Poets Society 1989 - "Oh captain, my captain") and Julie Delpy (whom I was not familiar with) are wonderfully cast - their conversations are natural and fit their life experiences.

Each of the films feature exceptionally long scenes - some over 10 minutes - taken in one shot. I don't know how many 'takes' those scenes took but they are fascinating to watch as each interchange unfolds. Delpy and Hawke apparently became more involved in the writing in the latter two movies and the flow appears smoother.

I recommend all three films. The latest movie, Before Midnight, received exceptional reviews, which drew me to find the first two (and to watch them first). While all three are good, the most recent stands out and I would see it again.