Contributor: Bob Hoose

After spending more than two decades touring, directing, writing and producing for Christian theater and radio (most recently for Adventures in Odyssey, which he still contributes to), Bob joined the Plugged In staff to help us focus more heavily on video games. He is also one of our primary movie reviewers.

Sacrifice

Between its ponderously self-important settings and its ominous tone, ‘Sacrifice’ has some satirical points to make. But there’s a lot of mess in these messages, too.

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dressmaker

Dressmaker

‘Dressmaker’ allows gamers to create dresses and receive praise in a cozy, no-stress setting. But there are a few odd pins in the fabric.

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sense and sensibility

Sense and Sensibility (2026)

The newest ‘Sense and Sensibility’ rings true to the original novel with strong performances and emotions.

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matchbox the movie

Matchbox the Movie

Does Apple TV’s ‘Matchbox the Movie’ sound like a fun flick involving Matchbox cars? Well … not so much.

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Gears of War: E-Day

From its high-res flesh-tearing to its profane spew, ‘Gears of War: E-Day’ definitely earns its capital-M rating.

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love of your life

Love of Your Life

‘Love of Your Life’ examines committed love and devastating grief. But the journey isn’t a light stroll along the beach.

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grandmaslop

Why Grandmaslop Is Making People Grumble

The newest form of AI slop is pulling grandparents into its sloppy mix. And some family members ain’t having it!

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Spider-Man: Brand New Day

‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ has a lot wriggling about in its cinematic web. But is there more than you need?

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insidious: out of the further

Insidious: Out of the Further

The ‘Insidious’ franchise marches on with more dark, intensely creepy moments to share. Which proves that ‘sharing’ isn’t always a good thing.

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East of Eden

1955’s ‘East of Eden’ is a story about love and acceptance, though there are some heavy, non-graphic, themes of violence, prostitution and drunkenness.

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Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave

Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave

‘Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave’ features great tactical battles and relationship building. But it’s no short or easy lift.

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frankenstein

Frankenstein

We think we know the original 1931 version of ‘Frankenstein,’ but there’s likely more here than you remember.

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forgotten island

Forgotten Island

‘Forgotten Island’ has positives in its mix, but it’s the scary negatives that kids might remember most.

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PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie

‘PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie’ has cute pups and friendly dinosaurs. Children and parents rejoice.

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the uprising

The Uprising

‘The Uprising’ looks like a potentially interesting historical drama. But it’s a dark and bloody slog.

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