Source Code

The previews for "Source Code" made the premise of the movie look extremely far-fetched. The question is, was the actual film able to make its ridiculous concept believable. The short answer: it didn't. That's not to say this is a bad movie. It's really not. The actors here do a fine job and some of the special effects are incredible. However, the film ultimately can't escape from or adequately explain away its premise. I also felt that the backstory of the main character could've used a heck of a lot more focus. You could do worse, but this definitely isn't on par with some of the more thought-provoking films in the action/sci-fi genre.

Bryce **1/2
Chase **1/2
Landon **1/2 

BANGERANG SCORE: **1/2

Kung Fu Panda 2

Unlike the first "Kung Fu Panda," this second installment has some high expectations behind coming on the heals of the tremendously funny original. This is essentially a repeat of the "Shrek" franchise - the original was fresh and effortlessly funny while the sequel tries too hard to mimic the first and only works some of the time. When it does work it is really good and much better than the majority of family comedies out there. The added depth to Po's backstory is a welcome addition but doesn't quite elevate the film to the original's lofty standards. Comparison to the first movie aside, this is a very good animated film and gets a recommendation.

Bryce **1/2
Chase ***
Landon ***
Logan ***

BANGERANG SCORE: ***