I think it’s safe to say the day of the video store has sadly come to an end. While I always enjoyed looking around a Blockbuster from time to time, I must admit the convenience of a Redbox is a nice luxury to have, especially as a college student. The one-dollar a night rental service hosts many new releases every week, and on occasion, will bring back an older movie for good measure. Redbox machines are located all over the Middle Tennessee area. As long as you don’t forget to turn your movie back the next day, Redbox is a wonderful, inexpensive way to find enjoyment during the down-time of college.

But don’t you just hate it when you Redbox  a movie that really isn’t to your liking? It may be just a dollar wasted, but these days, a dollar wasted is exactly that. I’ve decided to contribute a weekly REDBOX REPORT that highlights one or two new releases that gain the full approval of my cinematic taste. And trust me, I have good taste. So before you make a trip to the Redbox this week, check out these recommendations.

RIO (G, 96 minutes-featuring the voice cast of Jesse Eisenberg, Anne Hathaway, Leslie Mann, and George Lopez­)

I don’t know about you, but I love a good animated movie now and then. I immediately found Rio to be extremely worthy of my time back when I saw it in late April. The film has a light, breezy feel that flows throughout the runtime. The animation is beautiful, especially in Rio de Janeiro, the voice cast is great, and the film makes the perfect afternoon viewing. Rio is not as powerful as a Pixar release, excluding the lackluster Cars 2, but if you are looking for a fun little movie to bide your time, I fully recommend this enjoyable animated tale.

THE CONSPIRATOR (PG-13, 122 minutes-featuring James McAvoy, Robin Wright, Kevin Kline, Justin Long, and Tom Wilkinson)

If you aren’t in the mood for animation, then I suggest this riveting real-life courtroom drama. The Conspirator takes place days after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. A rising lawyer (McAvoy) takes the case of boarder Mary Surratt, the only woman charged in the assassination. As the events unfold, the performances shine, especially those of McAvoy and Wright. The courtroom scenes carry their own engrossing entertainment value. If you are a history buff, then you probably already know how the film turns out. Nevertheless, this film will appeal to those that love history and those who haven’t touched a history book since high school. The film, directed by screen veteran Robert Redford, constantly entertains, and I highly recommend the release.

Well, there you have it. Whether you’re in the mood for animation or drama, Redbox has you covered. Be sure to come back next week as I evaluate next week’s recommendations.

And that’s the Redbox Report.

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