Y2K (in theaters) 

“Y2K” is two movies jammed together, but only one of them is really successful.

The first half of the movie is a “Superbad” style buddy comedy set in the 2000s, a nostalgic romp that’s just the right amounts of goofy and fun. The second half is a deeply gross apocalyptic horror flick, scattered with interesting moments but never really coming together. You’ll probably get hooked through the first part, but it still won’t be enough to hold you through the rest of it.

For those who didn’t live through the transition from 1999 into 2000, Y2K was a possible New Year-related glitch that could have broken computer systems all around the world. Computer techs worked hard to make sure it didn’t happen, but that’s not the case in this movie. Instead of just breaking, though, everything even vaguely electronic turns violently homicidal at midnight on New Year’s Eve. Can a bunch of teenagers (and a surprisingly entertaining Fred Durst) survive long enough to save the day?

A big part of whether or not you will care about that question depends on Julian Dennison. Half of the buddy duo at the heart of the movie, Dennison’s warm, funny class clown is the best thing about the film. His care for his best friend (Jaeden Martell) is so genuine you can tell he meant well even when he messes up, and his interactions with larger groups are genuinely interesting. It’s a reminder of just how engaging a performer Dennison really is, and every moment he’s offscreen the movie is poorer for it.

Grade: Two stars

Hot Frosty (Netflix) 

For some people, formulaic Christmas romances are as much a part of the season as gingerbread cookies and listening to Mariah Carey.

If you fall into that category, you’re going to want to check out “Hot Frosty.” The best of Netflix’s attempts to muscle in on the Christmas romance market, it’s silly and sweet in all the right ways. There’s just the right touch of slapstick, and the magical element is treated with a practicality that is both refreshing and a little funny. There’s also some genuinely nice moments between the leads, and an ending that you know will work out but might still get you a bit emotional. Mix it all together, and you have the perfect recipe for a sugary Christmas movie treat. 

The plot involves a widow in a small town who accidentally brings a beefcake-style snowman to life. The snowman is bright, cheerful, completely clueless about life and absolutely devoted to the woman who woke him up. She, on the other hand, is pretty sure he’s just homeless and is trying to keep him away from the overly excitable sheriff. Will they be able to find their happily-ever-after before the poor enchanted snowman melts away? 

Lacey Chabert is the current queen of the Hallmark version of these movies, pretty without being too pretty and offering a solid, experienced delivery. Dustin Milligan, best known as Ted from “Schitt’s Creek,” is an absolute delight as the transformed snowman. The biggest surprise is probably Craig Robinson as the sheriff and Joe Lo Truglio as his deputy, a welcome shot of pure comedy that sets this apart from the pack. 

Grade: Three stars

Jenniffer Wardell is an award-winning movie critic and member of the Utah Film Critics Association. Find her on Twitter at @wardellwriter or drop her a line at [email protected].

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