The Wolverine (2013)

Logan's story continues after The Last Stand.  Fans of Wolverine all know of Logan's ties to Japan so here comes Hollyweird to provide their version of it.  If you can accept the changes made its a pretty good movie with some of the more memorable events relatively intact.  FX and production value are very good.  For the rest of us the movie is a fast paced comic style movie, lots of action and choreography.  Hugh is fairly ripped these days so having him run around sans shirt for most of the movie will have some tongues hanging out.  I'm wondering if this may be the last hurrah for the Jackman Wolverine however because for an ageless character he is looking old. Still a fun ride and if you are a fan of the genre its head and shoulders better than Origins. Recommended.

The Conjuring (2013)

'A 'based on true events' story about a demonic possession.  This is kind of a modernized version of Amityville Horror or Poltergeist with some Paranormal Activity style FX.  Using a 'less is more' mentality along with a semi documentary style presentation works well to produce atmosphere and some overall creepiness.  There are a couple good 'gotcha' scenes and I have no doubt casual movie goers will get a nice chill during some of the other scenes (one such is pictured). So does it live up to the hype? For me sadly it did not, I may have to just accept I have become far too jaded to be scared by anything likely to be shown in US theaters. Was it entertaining? Yes I would say it is, and I don't imagine many fans of the genre will come away thinking they got cheated.  If you want actual scares this may be your best bet this summer.