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This week, we feature an animated comedy about a boy embracing what sets him apart and delightful romcom about a widower falling for his brother’s new girlfriend.
New Release
‘Elio’
Elio (Yonas Kibreab) is a young dreamer with a love for all things space-related. When he’s accidentally transported to an alternate universe, a council of alien civilizations mistakes him for Earth’s ambassador and he must connect with strange lifeforms to avert a cosmic crisis.
This film is more than a space romp. It captures what it feels like to not fit in and yet reach for something bigger despite doubt. Wrapped in vibrant animation and quirky humor, it explores the ache of feeling unseen and finding the courage to move forward.
Adventure | Animation | Comedy Release Date: June 20, 2025Directors: Madeline Sharafian, Domee ShiStarring: Yonas Kibreab, Zoe Saldana, Brad GarrettRunning Time: 1hour, 39 minutesMPAA Rating: PGWhere to Watch: TheatersRated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5
Family Pick
‘Mr. Troop Mom’
When lawyer and widower Eddie Serrano (George Lopez) tries to reconnect with his daughter Naomi (Daniela Bobadilla), he volunteers to chaperone her all-girls scout troop on a military-style camping trip. But Eddie’s unorthodox methods clash with the troop leader’s, Miss Hulka (Jane Lynch).
Sure, it leans into some cheesy moments, but it’s a light, enjoyable watch. Lopez brings his usual humor—some lines land better than others—but there’s a charm to how it all comes together. The setting and feel-good story make it enjoyable.
Comedy | Family
Release Date: June 19, 2009
Director: William Dear
Starring: George Lopez, Daniela Bobadilla, Jane Lynch
Running time: 1 hour, 24 minutes
MPAA Rating: G
Where to Watch: Amazon, Apple TV, YouTube
Rated: 3 stars out of 5
Romance, Regret, and Really Bad Timing
‘Dan in Real Life’
Dan Burns (Steve Carell) is an advice columnist who seems to have answers for everyone—except himself. He soon meets Marie (Juliette Binoche) in a bookstore and feels an instant connection. But things get awkward when he discovers she’s dating his brother Mitch (Dane Cook).
This offbeat romcom blends romantic tension with family chaos. Carell captures the struggle of unexpected love with warmth and subtle humor, while Binoche brings an easy charm and sincerity that make their connection feel genuine.
Comedy | Drama | Romance
Release Date: Oct. 26, 2007
Director: Peter Hedges
Starring: Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook
Running time: 1 hour, 38 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Where to Watch: Amazon, Apple TV, YouTube
Rated: 3 stars out of 5
The Original Dances with Wolves
‘Run of the Arrow’
After the Civil War, rebel O’Meara (Rod Steiger) refuses to surrender and heads west, joining the Sioux to start a new life. But when war brews between the Sioux and the U.S. Army, neutrality isn’t an option.
Samuel Fuller’s film is bold and unsentimental, questioning identity and the cost of starting over. It’s a rare western that confronts its own contradictions head-on.
Drama | Western
Release Date: Sept. 5, 1957
Director: Samuel Fuller
Starring: Rod Steiger, Sara Montiel, Brian Keith
Running Time: 1 hour, 26 minutes
Not RatedWhere to Watch: Amazon, Apple TV, YouTube
Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5
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Ian Kane is a U.S. Army veteran, filmmaker, and author. He is dedicated to the development and production of innovative, thought-provoking, character-driven films and books of the highest quality.