Movie reviews of Sandy Schaefer

Aims to be bigger and crazier than its predecessor, but amounts to a serviceable (though less memorable) comedy sequel.

A respectful dramatization of the real-life events that inspired it, but is too by the numbers to leave a strong impression.

An uninspired retread of its predecessor, but manages to reach the (low) bar set for this action/comedy franchise.

Has elements of a lean and efficient action/thriller, but is bloated and overblown thanks to Michael Bay’s directorial approach.

A visually rich period drama that boasts strong performances and refined direction, though some may find it easier to admire than love.

A decent biographical drama anchored by Jennifer Lawrence’s performance, but fails to realize its greater ambitions.

A formulaic Will Ferrell comedy, but enough jokes hit their mark to make it a passable one.

Has its flaws, but is one of the more unique movies based on non-fiction literature in recent memory.

An uneven mix of raunchy farce and sincerity that’s elevated by the undeniable chemistry between Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.

An effectively grim and well-acted Shakespeare adaptation, but prioritizes style over substance.

Provides enough kitschy fun for those craving a darker holiday yarn.

A beautiful period drama and rich piece of romantic storytelling that boasts great performances.

An entertainingly kooky, but otherwise messy and slapdash re-imagining of the Frankenstein mythos.

Still boasts a touching story and gorgeous animation.

A well-acted and politically-charged drama/thriller with ambitions that exceed its grasp.

A well-crafted and thoughtful investigative journalism docudrama that is buoyed by great performances.

Succeeds at giving the Peanuts property a shiny fresh coat of paint, while keeping its heart and humanist spirit intact.

Fails as a character study, but thrives when bringing the fast-moving world of professional chefs to cinematic life.

What good intentions Jem and the Holograms has are weighed down by its cheap aesthetic and thinly-drawn storyline.

A fun, if frantic, scary adventure for kids that even captures the spirit of R.L. Stine’s original books.

Falls short at being either an imaginative origin story for Peter Pan and/or a satisfying standalone big-budget fantasy adventure.

An entertaining and often thrilling piece of storytelling...

An insubstantial Nancy Meyers comedy kept afloat by Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway’s screen chemistry.

An engaging and well-made biopic with solid performances, but fails at being an insightful and thematically rich work of cinema.