Sprite_Lee

I knew going in that I was going to see some wild, completely out-of-left-field action. But this sequel was just untamed. At one point in the film, I caught myself thinking, "It can't possibly get more outrageous than this." Then the final act arrived and it felt like all we were missing were the Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote. It's very much a shoot first and ask questions later kind of movie-or, honestly, don't talk at all.

The film kept me entertained, but in my opinion, it still doesn't surpass the first one.

Run, run, run, and give the people a good show while you're at it. One of the most engaging theater experiences I've had this year, Running Man is a buffet table of cardio, comedy, explosions, and bullets. In this world where the gap between the rich and powerful and the hopeless and broke is very apparent, it holds a mirror up to the audience in a way that's relatable to some. Will I pay rent? Or pay for my kid's medicine? Etc.

The harsh and whacky nature of this film, where salvation seems unreachable, introduces a corrupt elite who comes in as an olive branch, with his own harsh and whacky nature offering a new lease on life to our poverty-stricken protagonist - but no promises. However, the show must go on by any means necessary.

You can practically smell the gunpowder and rage throughout this 2-hour and 13-minute runtime. With an all-star cast that delivers amazing performances, as an audience member you are glued to the screen, just like the citizens within the film, fixated on the fate of our hero. Every moment is visually captivating, and the bursts of humor are perfectly timed, offering relief amid the intensity of this action-packed sci-fi thriller. Running Man works as a fun standalone experience, though revisiting the original may add even more depth and context.

What do you mean the new Predator film is PG-13? ...Alright, let's go.

Driven by rage, this story follows a low level inspiring Yautja warrior as he navigates a foreign jungle in pursuit of glory...... And the hunt. I really appreciated how the film wastes no time showing that this isn't your father's Predator movie-or comic.

Following previous entries, this latest installment leans heavily into the Yautja hero's journey packed with passion, grief, and self-doubt, all wrapped in an alien blood-soaked hunt. Oh yes, there will be space blood-just not the red kind.

But nobody can do this impossible task alone. Whether it's a collection of high-tech tools or a borrowed Weyland-Yutani synthetic, teamwork plays a key role. Without any shock, the crossover between these two iconic franchises feels smoother here than in past attempts, where continuity often went off the rails.

Overall, the film is a wild, enjoyable ride, though at times it feels like we're still on training wheels. I'm not sure all audiences will connect with the tonal shift or the absence of some familiar Predator ingredients fans have come to love-but if you can, definitely catch this one in IMAX.