What to Watch in the Theater:
Jumanji: The Next Level (PG13) opens today. This sequel sees the teens re-enter the game to rescue their friend, but something’s different. Characters are shifted around, and new people have been sucked into the game! The adventure continues, with new locations, new characters, new abilities, and just as much fun as the original.
Our rating: 4.33 out of 5

Richard Jewell (R) opens today. This movie is based on the true story of Jewell, the security guard who reported the Atlanta Olympic bombing and then became the prime suspect. It’s an interesting story about a simple man who just wanted to work in law enforcement but ended up hounded by the people he wanted to join, and convicted in the media. There are lessons to be learned here.
Our rating: 3.83 out of 5 

Playmobil: The Movie (PG) is in theaters now. On the surface, this is a LEGO knock-off, with a confusing premise and far too many “lands” and characters. There’s just way too much stuff in this one movie. Some of it is cheesy, but there’s some fun to be had here as well, with funny characters, an impressive array of voice talent, and a brilliant villain voiced (and sung!) by Adam Lambert. Yes, it’s a confusing mishmash of everything but the kitchen sink, but at a bargain matinee or later home viewing, kids will inevitably find something entertaining here.
Our rating: 3.67 out of 5 

What to Watch at Home (Or Not):
The Knight Before Christmas (TVPG) is streaming exclusively on Netflix. Yep, it’s another holiday “Hallmark Movie” on Netflix. This one has the weird premise of a medieval knight showing up in present day, just in time to romance Vanessa Hudgens and save the day, etc. etc. There are a lot of funny and sweet moments in this fish out of water rom com, even if it is as predictable as a Santa costume.
Our rating: 3.83 out of 5

Plus box office results, movie news, the latest movie trailers, what’s new on DVD and Blu-Ray and the first round of awards nominations.