Brain Reviews New Matrix, Hawkeye, 1883, and More!

Today is my first day at work since December 17th. Yes, it's been a while. And while I did my share of Christmas shopping and chores around the house, I had plenty of time to sit and watch some of the most talked-about movies and programs that hit the big and small screen this month. So what all did I see? The Matrix Resurrections, Don't Look Up, Hawkeye, and the first two episodes of 1883. Which ones should you watch?

Let's start with the one I was looking forward to the most, The Matrix Resurrections. I am a huge fan of the first Matrix film that debuted in 1999. It changed the way movies were made. I had high hopes for this one after the trailers looked amazing. But, a trailer is not a movie, and sadly, this version of the Matrix didn't live up to my expectations. Now, it's not the trash heap that many critics make it out to be. I had fun, I was just expecting more. But it was great to see Keanu Reeves and Carrie Anne Moss return to the roles of Neo and Trinity. Borrow a friend's HBO Max and watch it at home.

A movie that also got a lot of hype due to the ridiculous cast was the Netflix dark comedy Don't Look Up. The cast features Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Timothy Chalamet, Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchet, and well, a whole lot more. But does a stellar cast mean a fantastic film? Sadly, no. This movie is supposed to be a comedic look at the state of our world and society. It is supposed to be satire. And while parts of the movie are entertaining, I just didn't laugh enough. Unless you're a big fan of one of the stars, feel free to skip.

I also check out a couple of new series including the first season of Hawkeye on Disney Plus. While he may not be your favorite Avenger, the show features a fantastic performance from Hailee Steinfeld as Hawkeye's biggest fan, turned partner. The first two episodes are a bit slow, but things pick up for the last four episodes and even feature a few surprise appearances. If you're a fan of the Marvel universe, you should check it out.

And finally, if you love Yellowstone, you are probably thinking about checking out the prequel series 1883. It stars Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, and Sam Elliot and tells the story of the Dutton family heading West during the 1800s. New episodes are being added each week, and so far I've watched the first two shows. If you're a fan of Westerns, this is a must-watch. If you love Yellowstone, you need to check this show out too. Tim and Faith are both wonderful, and Sam Elliot was made for this role. Available on the Paramount Plus app, but they are showing the first two episodes on the Peacock Network too. Highly recommended.