Movie Reviews
Get informed perspectives on the latest films through our Movie Review section, featuring coverage of new releases screening at Santa Monica's theaters and local film events. From major releases at AMC Broadway and Laemmle Monica Film Center to independent features and film festivals, our reviews offer thoughtful analysis of cinema's newest offerings. Our coverage includes opening weekend reviews, special screenings, local film events, and movies with Santa Monica connections. Whether you're planning your weekend viewing or following cinema culture, count on Santa Monica Daily Press for engaging movie insights from our community's perspective.
In ‘McFarland, USA,’ a truly inspiring story (movie review)
"McFarland, USA" is a classic "only-in-America tale" based on a true story. A football coach with prior anger management issues...
Read moreIn ‘Virunga,’ a beautiful setting for tragedy (movie review)
Imagine that your favorite national park (perhaps Yellowstone?) suddenly becomes the battleground for a horrific civil war. Instead of peace,...
Read moreIn ‘Queen and Country,’ Boorman’s storytelling as vivid as ever (movie review)
John Boorman wrote and directed "Queen and Country," a beautiful film that he claims is his final movie (though, during...
Read moreA return to ‘Deliverance’ at Aero Theatre (movie review)
There will be a retrospective of nine of John Boorman's works at the Santa Monica's Aero Theatre from Friday, Feb....
Read moreReality, dreams juxtaposed in ‘Birdman’ (movie review)
"Birdman" is a musical tone poem of a film, with multiple levels of emotion and human interaction swirling, surging, and...
Read moreDetails drive powerful ‘Theory of Everything’ (movie review)
"The Theory of Everything" is a nearly impossible endeavor that succeeds emphatically through an incredibly detailed team effort. It's a...
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