Miss it or Watch it? (My Latest Movie Adventures)

1. The Invite (2026) Director: Olivia Wilde, Actors: Olivia Wilde, Seth Rogan

This movie was not what I thought, and I am so disappointed. “The Invite” stars Olivia Wilde, Seth Rogan, Penelope Cruz, and Edward Norton. Rogan was hilarious, but felt misplaced. It’s a set-in-one-location dinner party. Based on the trailer and the first hour, Olivia Wilde appeared to be experimenting with unique storytelling. I said to myself, “It doesn’t look like it will be porn.” Oh... I almost walked out. What have films come to now? Why do they need porn angles? “The Invite” was fine just as it was, with the couples engaging in talks about their lifestyle and hobbies. 

2. Ready or Not 2: Here I Come (2026), Directors: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillet, Actors: Samara Weaving and Kathryn Newton

“Ready or Not 2” began before it was a concept. Samara Weaving and Kathryn Newton were in talks to star together in a movie, which became a sequel to the hit horror film “Ready or Not” (2019). The sequel picks up right where the last one ended. Dysfunctional sisters Grace and Faith reunite. Newton and Weaving’s dynamic is the most exciting part of the film. The council segment felt out there. Horror directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett return with another blood-soaking film. 325 gallons of fake blood were used! It’s another sequel, but an entertaining one. Check it out.

3. Mile End Kicks (2026), Director: Chandler Levack, Actors: Barbie Ferreira, Devon Bostick

Why do well-rounded plotlines get stuck with trash? “Mile End Kicks” had potential. The story revolves around a young woman who is trying to find her creative voice and make it as an entertainment critic. That’s my kind of film. Except it’s a directionless story that decides it’s porn. Career films are so important. Barbie Ferreira (Grace) deserves better, especially after her memorable performance as Lily in "Bob Trevino Likes It" (2024). Grace gets in her own way and isn’t apologetic for her actions. Reviews said to avoid it, but I watched it anyway. "Mile End Kicks" is a disappointment. 

4. Run Amok (2026), Director: NB Mager, Actors: Alyssa Marvin, Patrick Wilson

I watched “Run Amok” at the Sundance Film Festival. The premise intrigued me. How can you turn a school shooting into a play? NB Mager takes a daring risk, combining school shootings, a controversial subject matter, with theater. It’s a unique idea. She created the film to examine an issue differently. Alyssa Marvin’s debut performance as Meg is bold and honest for a young actress her age. It was an intense role for Marvin, but she gave a marvelous performance. The film will make viewers feel an assortment of emotions, but we need these stories to produce the needed conversations. 

5. Apex (2026), Director: Baltasar Kormakur, Actors: Charlize Theron, Taron Edgerton

Charlize Theron got an impressive workout for this role. “Apex” wasn’t the film I was expecting. A woman reconnects with herself following a traumatizing incident, but it completely turns into a different film. Taron Edgerton plays Ben, a psycho. A psycho fantasy monster that I couldn’t take seriously by the end. The one part I liked about the film is the hiking scenes, done effectively by visual effects supervisor Gavin McKenzie. It’s cool how they do this portion of the film. I was expecting the film to go in a different direction, but maybe others will have a different opinion. 

6. The Residence (2025), Creator: Paul Williams Davies, Actors: Uzo Abuda, Giancarlo Esposito

I wanted a character-driven series, and I found one. “The Residence” (2025) is a gripping and suspenseful mystery series. I had never heard of Uza Aduba (Cordelia Cupp), and now she is on my watch list. Aduba plays a hardworking and observant detective. An ensemble creates engaging performances. The series blends political satire, comedy, and a murder mystery. You have to pay attention to every detail. Paul William Davies' direction masters skill and subtle details. For anyone searching for a series, look no further. The Residence is an amusing mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. 

7. Press Play (2022), Director: Greg Bjorkman, Actors: Clara Rugaard and Lewis Pullman 

There are several ways you can time travel. “Press Play” is a unique romance story, but it often becomes repetitive in its storyline. Clara Rugaard and Lewis Pullman play Laura and Harrison, a young couple trying to figure out their lives and relationship. Pullman has been gaining more traction since starring in this film. “Press Play” is a creative “Groundhog Day” concept. What other ways can you travel back in time? The list goes on. Greg Bjorkman directs a lighthearted film with predictable moments, but it has a worthy message. Take your own pathway and don’t dwell on the past.

8. The Answer Man (2003), Director: John Hindman, Actors: Jeff Daniels, Lauren Graham

“The Answer Man” is one of those early 2000s films that escaped audience viewership. Jeff Daniels’ (Arlen) humorous crawl across the street sent my grandmother and me into laughter. He is a natural at comedy. “Gilmore Girls” star Lauren Graham (Elizabeth) also stars in the film. Arlen and Elizabeth fall in love and help each other figure out life. Director John Hindman crafts a thoughtful character study and balances humor. This is not just a story about romance. It’s about finding your way. “The Answer Man” is a reflective drama that emphasizes personal growth in adulthood. We’re still growing up.