How to Know If a Movie Is Worth Your Time and Money

Knowing whether or not a movie is going to be worth watching is always a challenge. Will it be suitable for children? Is it worth the money?

American adults have busy schedules - from work to taking the kids to soccer practice. So nobody wants to waste their time off in front a dull film.

This is why it is so important to research a movie before you trek to the cinema. The best review sites feature descriptions from critics that saw the movie before its release. Comingsoon.net is one such service that has developed a reputation for detailed movie reviews.

If you're just not in the mood to read through an entire critique, most review sites offer a ranking system to save you time. You can also scroll to the bottom to view the critic's bottom-line recommendation. Still better, these sites offer visual slideshows that can give you a taste of the watching experience.

Now that you're armed with the tools you need to find the perfect movie, it's time to grab your popcorn and start watching. Here's a peak at two highly anticipated films - one for the parents and one for the kids:

Everest

Everest scores a respectable 8 out of 10 on Comingsoon.net. This is in line with the Internet Movie Database's (IMDb) users, who scored it 8.1.

As the title suggests, the film is about a group of people who attempt to summit Mount Everest in 1996. Professional climber Rob Hall, portrayed by Jason Clarke, is faced with the arduous task of saving his group from tragedy when a storm strikes.

Critics applauded director Baltasar Kormákur for remaining factually and technically accurate, though they point out that there are no cliff-hangers in this film. Based on a true story, the movie's trailer gives a good idea of the stunning visuals that moviegoers can expect, as well as some of the more dramatic and frightening moments.

Minions

Taking a peak at this movie's short, cheeky trailer, there's no doubt that the little ones will be in stitches as these characters from Despicable Me make their appearance in their very own movie. Expect more of the squeaky noises, jokes and unique minion language.

IMDb's users gave the film a modest 6.6 out of 10. According to reviews, the movie follows three brave minions through one obstacle after the next as they set out to find a new master for the minion community.

Critics have paid a big compliment to the film's producers, saying that anyone can understand and appreciate the minions, regardless of age, gender or nationality. They have also praised the quality of Illumination Entertainment's movies, with their beautiful color, vividness, strong storytelling and humor.

If Everest or Minions doesn't appeal to your taste, then it's time to hit the review sites. After all, a few minutes of research today can save you hours of wasted time tomorrow.