Most Disappointing Movies
Sometimes movies just do not live up to the hype. Some members of our CommRadio Arts & Entertainment department wrote about some of the biggest movie disappointments.
“Doctor Sleep”
With its predecessor “The Shining” becoming an iconic, cult classic in the genre of horror, “Doctor Sleep” relied heavily on CGI and bad effects to ruin the second part of the saga.
“Doctor Sleep” follows the story of Danny Torrence (Ewan McGregor) years after the incidents in “The Shining” take place. The story takes many elements of the original movie and combines the two in its own unique way, for example, flashbacks of the Dick Hallorann, the iconic music from the opening sequence and the hotel itself.
However, the movie lacks development. The sequel surrounds Torrence doing his best to protect a young girl, Abra Stone (Kyliegh Curran), from a group of people who kidnap and kill children who have the shine in order to achieve immortality.
The film plays out in awkward sequences between Torrence and Stone, whose actors share no filial chemistry whatsoever. McGregor, a talented actor, was given a really bad script that did not help to live up to a horror giant. - Adrianna Gallucci
“The Whale”
Brendan Fraser’s return to the screen as Charlie in “The Whale” was undeniably one of the most anticipated moments by many lovers of film, and he more than deservingly has received recognition for his performance.
Unfortunately, there were less-than-desirable aspects of this movie that left me dissatisfied.
At times the acting would have been better suited for a theater stage.
Although Hong Chau, who played Liz, gave a great performance overall, towards the beginning of the movie her line deliveries were too dramatic and were strangely directed. It may have been the dialogue that was the issue, but the scenes felt too unrealistic.
The play’s plot also did not translate to the screen well and felt unoriginal and pretentious.
Sadie Sink’s character, Ellie, held a noticeable weight in the interpretation of the nature of individuals. However, her character's redemption felt unearned and was paired with the unsurprising downfall of another character.
There were many quotable lines that appeared throughout the film, but they often felt ill-suited for the moments they were paired with or who they were about.
With that being said, the movie was still worth the watch and many can testify to the better elements that “The Whale” holds. – Erell Williams
“Citizen Kane”
According to The American Film Institute, “Citizen Kane” is the greatest American movie of all time.
In 2023, it is abundantly clear that “Citizen Kane” is not the greatest American movie. It is not even in the top 10.
While the 1941 film was influential in its structure and style, it no longer deserves the top spot.
“Citizen Kane” served its role in being a pivotal aspect of film history, but there are other 1940s movies that are arguably better.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” is a popular choice, but the 1944 movie “Double Indemnity” should also rank above “Citizen Kane” for best movies of the 1940s.
When talking about the greatest American movies of all time, “Citizen Kane,” should be retired from the conversation. - McKenna Wall
Adrianna Gallucci is a first-year student majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, please email in amg7989@psu.edu.
Erell Williams is a second-year majoring in broadcasting journalism. To contact her, email exw5303@psu.edu.
McKenna Wall is a first-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email mew6140@psu.edu.
About the Contributors
Erell Williams
First Year /
Erell Williams is a first-year student, and her intended majors are Broadcasting Journalism and Chinese. She grew up in Douglassville, Pennsylvania. She is a member of the CommRadio News and Arts department. To contact her, email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
McKenna Wall
First-Year /
McKenna Wall is a first-year student from Allentown, Pennsylvania majoring broadcast journalism. Wall is a multimedia reporter for CommRadio. She got her start as a camera operator in high school, learning how to use professional handheld camcorders, ENG cameras, and a jib camera. Wall is currently involved in After the Whistle, gaining experience both on-camera and behind-the-scenes filming, editing and completing work on a deadline. If you would like to contact her, please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Adrianna Gallucci
Sophomore /
Adrianna Gallucci is a sophomore majoring in broadcast journalism and is one of CommRadio’s New Member Coordinators. She is also a broadcaster, journalist, podcaster and talk show guest. In addition, Adrianna is also a part of PSSN, TDAY Sports and AWSM. She hosts her own independent podcast, She’s All Bat: A New York Mets podcast. She is a huge Mets and Rangers fan and will always talk about pro wrestling. Adrianna wants to work in MLB, NHL or WWE as a journalist or an anchor. You can find her on Twitter at @agallucci17 or email her at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
