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It's ironic that "Madame Web" opened on Valentine's Day. The romantic holiday reminds us of the reassuring phrase, "There is someone out there for everyone."
What's that got to do with the box office, you say? Well, when it comes to movies, the same is true: For every film, there's someone who genuinely likes it - even "Madame Web."
Doesn't sound very promising, does it? It's not.
The latest installment of the Spider-Man Universe opened to mostly scathing reviews and modest box office revenues. Its $15.2 million opening week is considered a major flop with one of the lowest debuts for a movie centered on a Marvel character.
While critics and superhero fans continue to pile on negatively, and in an effort to show a little love, I sifted through reviews to read some alternative opinions about the Sony-Marvel title, which stars Dakota Johnson as a Manhattan paramedic who develops the psychic powers and realizes she can use that insight to change the future.
Forced to confront revelations about her past, she forges a relationship with three young women bound for powerful destinies. That's if they can all survive the deadly villain, Ezekiel Sims.
One critic suggests viewers go in with an open mind and see for yourself how you feel about the film, which is rated PG-13. I heeded that advice, trying not to let the negative press sway my opinion. I left with the same reactions as the critics.
Despite those opinions, it's worth remembering that even truly disastrous films can entertain, which is why one critic wrote "Madame Web" is destined to be a camp classic.
Johnson's performance is praised for its humor - whether intentional or not - in her portrayal of the lead Marvel character. As Cassandra Webb, she brings a refreshing, grounded quality to her superhero vibe.
The three teenage girls - Julia Cornwall (Sydney Sweeney), Mattie Franklin (Celeste O'Connor) and Anya Corazon (Isabella Merced) - are all a bit awkward and feel forced, like they were cast for a future standalone film. Those prospects are clearly gone at this point.
Tahar Rahim plays the evil Ezekiel Sims, who shines during suspenseful moments, such as the sequence in which Cassie begins to grasp her unwanted abilities and realizes she must use them to save the trio from being brutally attacked on the train at Grand Central Terminal.
It's one of the few action sequences in the movie; however, "Madame Web" frequently forgets to be an action flick.
Directed by S.J. Clarkson, whose many television credits include the Marvel series "Jessica Jones," does a great job of delivering intense moments throughout the film. There just aren't enough of them.
"Madame Web" is one of those rare superhero movies you can watch without ever having seen another movie. It's a tale that stands on its own: no previous plotlines, pre-existing
continuities and introductions are needed. You don't have to have Spidey-senses or have any familiarity with the Spiderverse to grasp this cinematic ride.
The latest Spider-hero fails to capture the hearts and minds of critics and theatergoers. There's joy to be found in Cassie's dynamic with people in her life, the situations that these girls find themselves in and the Spidey-ness of it all. That's about all that makes "Madame Web" fun to watch.
Grade: C+
Bob Marley: One Love (PG-13)
Surprisingly, Paramount Pictures' Bob Marley biopic "Bob Marley: One Love" exceeded expectations and debuted at No. 1 at the box office. Despite largely poor reviews, "One Love" emerged as a surprising favorite of theater audiences.
"One Love," starring Kingsley Ben-Adir and produced with the involvement of the Marley estate, was jammin' as a hit across all generations.
Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, "One Love" chronicles Marley during the making of the 1977 album "Exodus" while leading up to a pivotal unit concert for his native Jamaica. By holding the concert, Marley hopes to curb the violence inflicted by two warring political leaders.
Marley's big family is quickly introduced - his supportive wife Rita (Lashana Lynch), manager Don Taylor (Anthony Welsh) and a few members of his backing band, the Wailers. With his home located in a compound, surrounded by high walls and guards, we get the sense that Marley's life is constantly in danger.
Marley's children, Ziggy and Cedella, and wife, Rita, were among the movie's producers.
I'm a bit surprised by the box office numbers because I found myself asking "What's the point?" over and over throughout the film.
I was left wondering when "One Love" would have a point of view on Marley's politics, Rastafarian religion or even reggae. Instead, I saw bad wigs and trite dialogue. Theatergoers didn't see it that way.
Grade: B-
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Greg Williams is a reporter and Weekend Editor for The Sentinel. A Mifflin County native, he has been writing for The Sentinel since 1991.