The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)

Wacky and wonderful, with a second half in particular that’s a non-stop barrage of laugh-out-loud hilarity (see Furby’s “Let the dark harvest begin!” and later, “Mom’s scary now”), wild action (see Linda’s first battle and oil splatter), and waterfall-eye emotion (see the moose and “No, this is easy”). Rounding it out are great visuals (see the cool comic-style add-ons), a uniquely likeable protagonist, and commentary on tech and generational differences that’s funny and ultimately well-rounded.

9

Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny (2006)

To become the greatest band of all time, two slacker, wannabe-rockers set out on a quest to steal a legendary guitar pick that gives its holders incredible guitar skills, from a maximum security Rock and Roll museum. (IMDb)

There are some moments of good comedy (the subversive take on the “inside all of us/inside your hearts” speech had me in stitches) to go with the entertaining soundtrack (the opening flashback number and the boardwalk jam are highlights), but not enough to distract me from the terrible script that can’t even do the generic underdog story right (where was their triumphant open mic performance?). It’s not boring (fun cameos help), but not every bit lands, and it misses the mark on a grander scale.

6/10 (Mediocre)