MR. PEABODY & SHERMAN [2014]

I didn't think I'd want to see a CGI animated update of an old Rocky & Bullwinkle cartoon.
Mr. Peabody & Sherman proved me wrong with it's high energy, non-stop humor and all around time-travelling romp of a good time.
Directed by The Lion King's Rob Minkoff, the film is surprisingly fast-paced, jammed with witty historical jokes and enough heart to keep you smiling when the credits begin rolling.  It's nothing like it's source material but that really doesn't matter because, let's face it, the original cartoon was about as much fun as watching paint dry in a funeral home.
By no means will this become a classic but it's got enough flash and enthusiasm to enjoy multiple viewings and then some.  

3½ creepy boys out of 5

EXCISION [2012]

Like May & American Mary, Richard Bates Jr.'s Excision is one of those unique character study films that lingers with you long after it's done.

At times it's intensely disturbing, shockingly funny, unapologetic in it's twisted execution and carried by a fearless performance from 90210's AnnaLynne McCord.  As outlandish as the film is on the outside, underneath it's tale of family and social dysfunctions is painfully realistic grounding the film in an unsettling reality. Filled with a gaggle of cameos from cult film fan favorites, Excision is definitely aiming for the oddball crowd that doesn't mind going on an uncomfortable yet entertaining ride.

3½ truth horns out of 5

PARANORMAN [2012]

From Chris Butler & Sam Fell (some of the guys who worked on Coraline & Corpse Bride) comes ParaNorman another beautiful looking stop motion animated film made to appeal to little monster in all of us.

With a sick, yet safe, sense of humour, killer dialogue, entertaining voice-work, zany music and extravagantly designed sets, ParaNorman is must-see for the big screen.  It intelligently goes against what we expect from such a film and is surprisingly touching.

Its' been awhile since death has been this much fun.

4 bathroom ghosts out of 5