What to Watch in the Theater:
Instant Family (PG13) is in theaters now. This comedy shows the struggles of new foster families, focusing on the difficulties one couple has adapting to their new family, which now includes a teen girl and two younger siblings. Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne deftly communicate the highs and lows of this tale, which is based on a true story. Isabela Moner is great as the angsty teen, and there’s lots of comedy relief provided by other characters, like family members and other couples in the foster parents group. It’s a fun film full of laughs and a big dose of heart.
Our rating: 4.33 out of 5
Can You Ever Forgive Me? (R) is in limited release. This movie is based on the true story of Lee Israel, a down-on-her-luck author who finds she can make a decent living by forging literary letters, and then selling them. She takes great pride in her work, but unfortunately runs afoul of the law. It’s an interesting tale, and although it’s a different type of role for Melissa McCarthy, we enjoyed her turn in this dramatic role.
Our rating: 4 out of 5
What to Watch at Home (Or Not):
Three Identical Strangers (PG13) is available on DVD. This documentary brings to light the real-life saga of identical triplets who discover each other, completely by accident, at age 19. Although they’re ecstatic to find each other and share their story with the world, their reunion brings up a lot of questions. We learn all about the adoption agency and their deliberate choice to separate the boys and adopt them out to different families. It’s an eye-opening story about manipulation and the bonds of family.
Our rating: 4.17 out of 5
The Princess Switch (not rated) is a Netflix original movie. This holiday movie has a Prince and the Pauper meets Parent Trap storyline, with Vanessa Hudgens playing the dual roles of Duchess Margaret, from fictitious Montenaro, and Stacy, the baker from Chicago. Even though the story is incredibly predictable, it’s fun to watch the two romances – and cases of mistaken identity – play out.
Our rating: 3.83 out of 5
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