Tubs of Popcorn Rating!!
Film Reviews

      RAVE & RAGE
Jamie Foxx & Channing Tatum
Shane Acker "9"
Minor Childers & Leland Orser
Craig Robinson & Clark Duke
Kelsey Mann - Pixar
Channing Tatum
Andy Dickler
Marmaduke
Richard Hatch
Sam Bass
Peter Lord
Nicholas Sparks
Stan Lee
Jarrod Hess
Morgan Spurlock
Peter Briggs
Kevin Sorbo
Carrot Top
Scott Waugh
Jonny Weston
Martin McDonagh
Anna Hutchison
Ming-Na Wen
Paige O'Hara
Robert Carlyle
Martin Papazian
Martin Blunder
David Koechner
Spongebob!
Gabriel Iglesias
Scott Mantz
Ben Lyons
Gil Bellows
Kevin Pollack
David MacKenzie & 
Gil Birmingham
David Guggenheim
THE POWER RANGERS
Dacre Montgomery, Naomi Scott, Ludi Lin
The Real Heroes of Bengazhi 
Mark "Oz" Geist, Kris "Tanto Paronto, John "Tig" Tiegen
Spencer Stone, Alek Skarlotos, Anthony Sadler for The 15:17 to Paris
They are Coming OUT OF DARKNESS

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Andrew Cummings and Bleecker Street is the dark and strange life when coming OUT OF DARKNESS.

Over forty-five thousand years ago humans were attempting to survive the world. A group led by Adem (Chuku Modu), a very pregnant Ave (Iola Evans), their son Heron (Luna Mwezi), daughter Beyah (Safia Oakley-Green), Adem’s brother Geirr (Kit Young) and forager Odal (Arno Luening) are looking for a new place to settle.

Finding land and a wide-open space, the group sets up shelter and start a campfire to rest while Adem and Geirr hunt for food. Almost immediately it becomes clear that something is out in the darkness. There are sounds, rattlings and a frightening reality that they are not alone. Then, the screams begin and so does the fight for survival.

On the move, Adem is now hunting for whatever has taken Heron but the very pregnant Ave can not move at the speed that they need. Settling again, there is more horror as whatever is hunting them leads them to a place where it is clear death is inevitable for anyone that gets in the creature’s way.

Sacrifices are about to be made to survive!

Oakley-Green as Beyah is the John Wick of forty-five thousand years ago as she shows no fear in anything that is needing to be done for survival. Making the ultimate decision as the group is starving and running into the fray even though she is terrified, Oakley-Green is stellar and trust when I say if I had been there (and thank gawd I wasn’t, I’d make a lousy early human), Beyah would be the person I’d stand behind. Her character doesn’t have a lot to say but when she speaks – listen!

Young as Geirr is Adem’s brother and whether he is straight out scared at everything that moves or perhaps continual berating by his brother reminding him that he is not the leader, Geirr doesn’t have leader ability. He sees Beyah as a strong warrior and looks to her when things start to get out of hand.

Modu as Adem is a brutal leader who holds a strong thumb over the group. He makes it clear that no one is going to tell him what to do and he is willing to sacrifice anyone who goes against his leadership. Evans as Ave is a very pregnant woman who is having a hard time from travelling and lack of food. Yet, when she is cornered, she is just as vicious as Adem.

Mwezi as Heron is the young boy who is the first taken. That is the hardest to take and the reason Adem goes so strong into the chase for the creature. Luening as Odal also has a tendency to question Adem’s decisions and gets a verbal beat down and a reminder of where he stands in the ranking. That doesn’t mean that Odal isn’t keeping a mental file of what is happening only to bring it up later.

Bleecker Street is a New York City film company that has brought outstanding films to the public. Their library includes TRUMBO, DENIAL, THE LOST CITY OF Z, BEIRUT, HOTEL MUMBAI, ORDINARY LOVE and THE ROADS NOT TAKEN. For more information on the titles from Bleeker Street please visit www.bleeckerstreetmedia.com.

This year director Cummings completed his debut feature film OUT OF DARKNESS with Escape Plan Productions (SAINT MAUD). In 2019, he directed the last two episodes of COLD FEET series 9 for ITV and BIG TALK, now streaming on Britbox, and in 2018 directed three episodes of BBC3's acclaimed thriller CLIQUE (S2). In 2015 he directed KAI, funded by i-D and VICE, which has been viewed over one million times on social media. Andrew's National Film & Television School graduation film RADIANCE, a supernatural thriller about a young woman with a dangerous condition, was nominated for best film at the BAFTA Scotland New Talent Awards, while his claustrophobic psychological drama BENEATH won Best Student Film at the Courant 3D festival in France.

OUT OF DARKNESS has received attention from the British Independent Film Awards for Best Debut Director Cummings, a win for Best Breakthrough for Oakley-Green, Best Music for Adam Bzowski, Best Hair and Makeup for Niamh Morrison and Best Debut Screenplay for Ruth Greenberg.

The story is that of the exploration of this group of humans looking to start their own village. Believing they had found a place that was unoccupied by others, it quickly became clear that humans weren’t the only thing that seem to be missing – there is nothing else either. The sounds coming from the dark seemed to be nothing like they had ever heard before.

Beyah is determined to not only find out what is happening but what is responsible. I enjoyed this character so much because there is the feeling of a young woman who was stronger than those around her realized and had leadership qualities. It reminded me of the articles I have read where women warriors are becoming more mainstream in history than realized, Beyah would certainly fit the bill.

Filmed in much darkness, it adds to the intensity, fear, shock and discovery of the story director Cummings is trying to tell calling it a “paleolithic horror” film. Filmed in the Gairloch in Scotland, the location offers up such a fantastic place with its vast lands, woods, fogs, just perfection. This is a mystery that can lead to death.

In the end – we are them!


The Conflict Begins with AIR FORCE ONE DOWN

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday and available later on Digital from director James Bamford and Paramount Pictures is the chase with AIR FORCE ONE DOWN.

Agent Allison Miles (Katherine McNamara) is thrilled when her Uncle Sam Waitman (Anthony Michael Hall) brings her into the White House for duty. President Edwards (Ian Bohen) is working on a mission that has global impact and is getting ready to board Air Force One. Gathering the agents together that will be travelling with him, Agent Miles learns she is going on the trip.

What the President doesn’t know is that there is an enemy, Rodinov (Rade Sherbedgia) who wants to stop him from continuing on with his mission. There is a plan already in motion and it is about to do the unthinkable. Boarding the plane, Agent Miles is excited about the trip but keeping her feelings in check and professional.

The plane isn’t off the ground long before chaos erupts with the target being the assassination of the president. Agent Miles isn’t about to let that happen and gets the president out and away from the plane. Now they are in open territory as Rodinov sends him men to capture President Edwards with one goal, stop the mission or suffer the fatal consequences.

Agent Miles isn’t about to let either of those things happen.

McNamara as Miles is a young, eager and grateful Agent who has an uncle looking out for her. Very well versed on what her job is by protecting the president when called on, starting from the bottom-up shoots into high gear quickly. Boarding Air Force One, Miles is clear on the job but never anticipated being called on in chaos. McNamara gives her character a toughness that is equally measured by her escape partner.

Bohen as President Edwards isn’t a leader who is going to stand around doing nothing. When they come after him, along with Agent Miles, they work together to do what is necessary and both know the cost. Bohen is just as strong in character as McNamara which is what makes them a good pair in this film.

Shout out to Hall coming in as Uncle Sam who is looking out for his niece and not just because she is family but because he sees potential. I always enjoy seeing Hall in a film following his career since he was knee high to a pup!

Other cast include Max Kraus as Vlad, Paul s. Tracey as Mark Miller, Pavel Vladimirov as Toma Hasak, Trevor Van Uden as Agent Richards and Dascha Polanco as Vice President Hansen.

Paramount Pictures is the longest operating and remaining major studio in Hollywood that has been on the ground floor of every major development in film. From the advent of motion pictures to the emergence of television, through the digital revolution, Paramount Pictures has been there. During our 100-year history, we have served as the production site for thousands of notable movies and television shows. For more please visit www.paramountstudios.com.
AIR FORCE ONE DOWN joins in the genre of films that take on protecting the leader of the free world. McNamara gets to join the ranks of Butler, Tatum, and Ford in taking down the bad guys who want to tear into democracy. Nothing better than this particular duo working together to let the world know that bad guys don’t win.

The film is action packed from what McNamara’s character is capable of to the danger aboard Air Force One. When McNamara and Bohen get together it is clear that the enemy has plenty to worry about. As the bad guy’s monologue, Agent Miles and President Edwards already know how they will handle it and handle it they do.

It’s time to hit the theatre seats and watch the action on the big screen cheering once again putting the enemy on notice!

In the end – never take on the strong!


They are in FREUD’S LAST SESSION

Jeri Jacquin

In theatres from director Mathew Brown and Sony Picture Classics comes a stunning look at two men questioning their own existence with FREUD’S LAST SESSION.

Jack, C.S. Lewis (Matthew Goode), finds himself meeting with Sigmund Freud (Anthony Hopkins) and the conversation between has Jack thrown. They begin by discussing their differences in religion which is taking place as all around them in England they are preparing for World War II. Jack also notices that there is something peculiar in Freud’s physical behavior.

Taking care of her father is Anna (Liv Lisa Fries) who is also in the field of psychology and teaches at the university along with friend Dorothy Burlingham (Jodi Balfour). She is tied to her father in such a knot that Dorothy worries that her friend does not have a will of her own. That causes tension in their friendship but Anna, in fact, knows she speaks the truth.

The afternoon between Jack and Freud stops briefly as there is a bomb-dropping threat and Freud begins to see his companion’s pain. They discuss Jack’s experience in World War I and Freud openly discusses the relationship with his own father. Both men are ardent in their beliefs and change might not happen for either.

Freud, however, is curious about Jack’s friendship with J.R.R. Tolkien and where his desire to write about fantasy comes from. There begins Freud’s openness with the discussion of sex and tries to explain to Jack that everything is about sex but not in the way most people think. Although Jack, at times, is frustrated with Freud, there is also a clear bond forming between the two men as realizations come forefront with no escape emotionally for either of them.

Hopkins as Freud is stellar, stunning and absolutely perfect for the role. In this character he gives us a man who is confrontational, a bit manipulative, believes in what he is saying but could be persuaded with a bit of humor. The character of Freud seems, at times, almost amused by the questions Jack asks and always has an answer that either stuns or brings on another question. Astounding. Surrounded by statues of ‘gods’ and saints, Hopkins shows Freud as a man who has lived a painful life in his own right and someone who is considering his own mortality. I adored watching Hopkins mastery in this film, pure perfection.

Goode as Jack (C.S. Lewis) is a man also sure of his convictions about God and man. Goode performs his character as catching out Freud in such a smooth way but never really cornering the very smooth Freud. Jack doesn’t seem to have a malicious bone in his body but sparing with Freud seems to bring him to thinking more about his beliefs and the fears that are still following him. I must say that Goode stunned me in this role, he brought out a deep sense of me wanting to protect Jack in a way from ‘the monster’ which means this actor did his job also with pure perfection. 

Fries as Anna is a woman who is tied to her father in ways that are so deep that even Jack brings it up to Freud. She has grown to be a respected professor in child psychology and teaches but the moment her father calls, she is panicked to the point of terror. Fries portrays her character with grace and left me wanting to know more of her story. Balfour as Jodi is a friend who sees what Anna is going through and interjecting means causing Anna more pain. Her role might be small but it has big significance.

Cast also includes Jeremy Northam as Ernest Jones and Orla Brady as Janie Moore, Stephen Moore as JRR Tolkien, Rhys Mannion as a young C.S. Lewis, Padraic Delaney as Warren Lewis, Tarek Bishara as Jacob Freud and Lukas Sweeney as young Sigmund Freud. 

Sony Pictures Classics brings television, digital content, new entertainment services, independent films and technologies to viewers. Such films as GREED, THE BURNT ORANGE HERESY, THE CLIMB, CHARM CITY KINGS, I CARRY YOU WITH ME and THE FATHER are just a few of the current and upcoming releases. For more information on what Sony Pictures Classics has to offer please visit www.sonyclassics.com.  

FREUD’S LAST SESSION is a brilliant piece of filmmaking telling the story of two men who are coming to terms with their fears during a terrifying time in history. The backdrop of World War II brings a sense of urgency for these two men to talk before there is no time to talk. As people pack up to go anywhere but where they are is prevalent, so is seeing children being put on trains in order to save them from what might be coming.

I have read many books on Freud and although he is revered, I recognized a few quirks in his life and can be linked to the parts of his life that were traumatic. Reading C.S. Lewis (and Tolkien) has been part of my life since I was a child. So, having these two men in a film together portrayed by Hopkins and Goode in such an amazing way, FREUD’S LAST SESSION is award worthy.

The last ten minutes of the film had my jaw dropping as the visitation between Freud and Jack come to a challenging point. Yet, at the same time, I saw some truth in both of these beautiful characters. The film is based on the stage play Freud’s Last Session written by Mark St. Germain and that is based on the book The Question of God by Armand Nicholi.

In the end – so many questions, so little time!


The New Year Brings a New Thriller with I.S.S.

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Gabriela Cowperthwaite, LD Entertainment and Bleecker Street is a welcoming in of the new year with a thriller in space aboard the I.S.S.

The Americans and Russia are having their difficulties on earth but up on the I.S.S. The American crew with Gordon Barrett (Chris Messina), Christian (John Gallagher Jr.) and newcomer Dr. Kira Foster (Ariana DeBose) each have a job to do. The Russian crew with Nicholai (Costa Ronin), Weronika (Maria Mashikova) and Alexey (Pilou Asbaek) do their job as well.

But in tight quarters, of course they have their moments to share a bit of alcohol, laughs, music and together time. Showing newcomer Kira the ropes, she settles in quickly and discovers a camaraderie among her shipmates. They even show her an amazing view of their world from an observation bubble.

All of it quickly brings chaos when Kira notices bright lights coming from Earth. At first, she believes it is a volcano but the other crew quickly get back inside the craft and seal the hatch. Each side of the crew try to contact their commands but they are getting nothing, no information, no contact, nothing.

That is until Barrett receives a message telling him that the United States and Russia are at war and to take control of I.S.S. Believing that the Russians have received the same message, a feeling of distrust begins to take over each side. The problem with mistrust and being friends is a very thin line – duty vs. friendship come into play.

Until contact can be resumed, orders are orders, by any means necessary.

Messina as Barrett seems to be the figurehead for the group and he maintains a close friendship not only with Nicholai but Weronika as well. Barrett is the level head on the ship from the get go. I enjoy the roles that Messina choses to play because they are so uniquely different. In this role he truly does try to keep a level head when it seems all others are losing theirs. Ronin as Nicholai truly does have a friendship with Barrett as they talk of home and chess. Ronin’s character is the figurehead for the Russian group as he makes it clear what his goals are from the start. I must admit I absolutely loved his character in the Showtime series HOMELAND, unpredictable and sly which is a role he is so deliciously good at playing

DeBose as Kira chose space to explore medical experimentation in space. She is tough, reasonable and realizes as the ‘newbie’ to the group, she knows less about her shipmates which just might be to her advantage. DeBose embraces what is happening and rather than lose it, she takes it step by step. Asbaek as Alexey, Kira’s Russian experimentation counterpart, gets a chance to break away from his GOT role and board a different kind of ship. He is that character in the middle of it all and making decisions gets difficult as well. I have been a fan of Asbaek’s since first seeing him in 2010 in the hit series BORGEN (find and binge immediately!). He is every changing and I’m always surprised at what he accomplishes with a role.  

Mashikova as Weronika is a woman who seems to love being in space and knows how to make it more bearable which she immediately shares with Kira. In space she has also found a care for Barrett and cannot comprehend nor agree with what is being asked of them. I like a woman who doesn’t take any guff and stands her ground. Gallagher Jr. as Christian is the odd duck on ship, but then again there is always one in space films. He knows the inner workings of the ship and makes it clear to Kira that they need to stick together. That being said, space and fear make people do crazy things.

Bleecker Street is a New York City film company that has brought outstanding films to the public. Their library includes TRUMBO, DENIAL, THE LOST CITY OF Z, BEIRUT, HOTEL MUMBAI, ORDINARY LOVE and THE ROADS NOT TAKEN. For more information on the titles from Bleeker Street please visit www.bleeckerstreetmedia.com.

Director Cowperthwaite has chosen her projects so very well beginning with the 2013 documentary BLACKFISH that stunned audiences world-wide, MEGAN LEAVEY became her first feature film in 2017, and in 2019 she squeezed hearts in the drama OUR FRIEND. Watching her films, I see a director that is very clear about her vision and with I.S.S. she takes risks in every scene and I went for it absolutely.

With a cast of six, let us not forget the seventh character – space itself. It has a big part to play from its view of what people on earth are doing to one another to the reality that outside the ship you are on your own. When I watch films about space, that last one is always on my mind because if you can’t trust those inside to have your back, you might as well unhook and float away!

On the International Space Station, the room inside the I.S.S. is very tight not leaving much room to do things quietly. Space station cameras everywhere and everyone having access to the same places, that is what gives the story its intensity and thrill. It is all out in the open and being secretive won’t work as each of the characters discovers.

I usually don’t have much hope for films in January but I.S.S. has given me a glimmer of hope. It goes straight into survival mode immediately and we hang-on until literally the end credits as the paranoia become so palpable. It becomes a who-do-you-trust game in a place that will call out each character for who they are and what they are willing to do. 

There are a few more surprises but I think definetly I.S.S. is a film for everyone to experience for themselves. You don’t need me spoiling it for you so suffice to say I had a grand time from start to finish with this so well done film. Put on your space suits – the ride is going to get a bit rough!

In the end – the war on earth will be decided in space!


CONCRETE UTOPIA is a Look at Humanity

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Um Tae-hwa, Lotte Entertainment and 815 Pictures comes a look at disaster and the unfolding of humanity after with CONCRETE UTOPIA.

Beginning with a quiet night in Seoul, everything is about to change. A powerful earthquake is shaking so badly that houses are collapsing and apartment buildings are falling – all except for the Hwang Gung Apartments. Surrounded by piles of rubble and destruction, the day brings people trying to find loved ones and how to survive until help arrives.

It becomes clear quickly that those who live in the surviving apartment building that protecting it must happen right away. Min-seong (Park Seo-joon) is a quiet civil servant who has a good heart and loves his wife Myeong-hwa (Park Bo-young) who is a nurse. They immediately want to be of help to anyone who needs it and takes in a woman and her child.

Knowing something has to be put together, Geum-ae (Kim Sun-young) tries to bring together a group to decide how it should be done. When a fire breaks out in one of the apartments, Yeong-tak (Lee Byung-hun) springs into action and Geum-ae sees him as a natural leader. That gives the group the idea that he would be more than capable of handling decisions about the complex.

The first thing Yeong-tak decides is that if a person isn’t a resident of the complex, they must vacate immediately. Gathering supplies like food and water is difficult enough to take care of residents. Things get a big ugly when the people outside who want in decide to push back but the complex residents push even harder keeping them out.

The work begins barricading and starting some semblance of a life when they realize that no help is coming. Groups of people go out to look for anything that will help them survive. But nurse Myeong-hwa isn’t happy with the way things are going and makes it clear to Min-seong that she suspects something about their elected leader Yeon-tak. 

As with all uncertainty, chaos begins to take hold as secrets are revealed and outsiders do not forget!

Byung-hun as Yeong-tak is a clever man from the very beginning. Entering as shy, it doesn’t take long for the saying ‘absolute power corrupts absolutely’ comes into play. Everyone has their secrets and Byung-hun’s character is just like everybody else – or is he? What an great character to play with all the twists and turns slowly happening and the viewer is never quite sure what the truth is.

Seo-joon as Min-seong is a man who loves his wife and is not much of a boat rocker. He goes along to get along even if it makes him slightly uncomfortable. He doesn’t want to upset the status quo and yet he is upsetting his wife with every move he makes. That being said, he also wants to help as many people as he can putting himself in dangerous situations (for cake, you’ll see) to try and ease the uncertainty of survival.

Bo-young as Myeong-hwa is a woman that certainly isn’t going to be pushed around. Not loud in her opinions, she is less obvious about the moves she makes. Wanting to help those who are left behind, she is not of the same mind as her husband or Yeong-tak. Bo-young gives her character a stance that she holds on to from start to stunning finish and I was all in for her choices.

Ji-Hu as Hye-won takes the reigns from the beginning but doesn’t want the top job. She follows Yeong-tak, as does everyone else, and enjoys the benefits of cheering when things go right and backing the leader when things go wrong. 

Other cast include Na Chul, Do-yoon Kim, Kim Hak-sun, Nam Jin-bok and Dong-gon Kim. 

Lotte Entertainment is a fully-integrated leading entertainment company with film, distribution and production of over hundreds of films such as CATTLE RUN, STREAMING and SINGLE IN SEOUL. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.lotteent.com. 

CONCRETE UTOPIA is a stripped-down look at humanity. There are no fancy sets to hide behind, no colorful costumes and zero bright bird chirping scenery. Instead, there is destruction, grey and dingy surroundings that offer no hope and little expectation of easy survival. Once that realization sets in, so does the predicament of who rules and how they rule.

Always in the midst of it all are kind hearted individuals who see the inequities and either do something that gets them in trouble or away from prying eyes. That’s what makes this cast so perfect at the story they are trying to tell. Coming in at two hours and fifteen minutes, it is suspenseful from beginning to shocking end. Director Tae-hwa offers faint glimpses at how humane this new world can be and then takes it all away by revealing the ugliness behind the desperation to survive. 

Well told, well performed and well directed makes CONCRETE UTOPIA a worthy film to be considered on several levels in performance, casting and bringing it to the screen. Award season is on the horizon and this film is South Korea’s Official Oscar Submission.

In the end – obey or leave!




AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM Hits Theatres

Jeri Jacquin

Coming this Friday to theatres from director James Wan, DC Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures is the return of AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM.

Arthur aka Aquaman (Jason Momoa) is splitting his time between the land and the sea and enjoying being a dad to young Arthur, Jr. Being the King of Atlantis is no easy matter for a man who is completely bored by all the royal duties. He is also not happy that he cannot make things happen without the Atlantean council’s approval, like making contact with the land people.

What he doesn’t know is that David Kane (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) has become Black Manta and is out for revenge against Aquaman. Kane enlists the help of scientist Stephen Shin (Randall Park) who just wants to find Atlantean artifacts. One such artifact is the black trident and Kane becomes a powerful enemy.

Coincidentally, a few months later something is happening with the weather causing disease in the sea and devastating weather around the globe. Black Manta attacks Atlantis as he looks for their storage of orichalcum and it becomes clear who is responsible for the world’s changes. Someone who can help them is Orm (Patrick Wilson) and the only way to get him is for Aquaman to break a few rules.

When the brothers look for Kane, Orm handles the black trident and discovers that there once was another kingdom called Necrus and a battle of brothers led to the confinement of Kordax. Aquaman learns that all that is needed to release everyone, including Kordax, in Necrus is a drop of royal blood. 

The battle begins as brothers come together and all Atlantean’s fight to the finish!

Momoa as Arthur/Aquaman/King makes darn sure that he is having a good time playing this character. Even when Aquaman is angry, he turns things on its ear from start to finish. Momoa gives his character the right amount of fight and an equal amount of humor as the story of what being a King does for him. He’s not happy but then again, now that’s he’s a Daddy – things are different for him. 

Wilson as brother Orm is still uptight yet there is a part of this character that somehow believes he should be punished. When brother Arthur comes calling and the ocean calls, Orm tries in his own unique way to understand his brother the King and the problems facing Atlantis. Realizing what Black Manta is up to, Orm uses his own skills to do the right thing by his fellow Atlanteans. Wilson is the straight man to Momoa’s comedy and it actually works well.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Black Manta is the typical angry, vengeful, super smart bad guy and every move he makes is predictable. He doesn’t say much but lets his character speak volumes. The problem for me is that a Black Manta doesn’t fit in the under-water world. All of this because he has daddy-revenge issues but spends very little time going after Aquaman. I just didn’t get it.

Shout out to Park as Shin playing the scientist who is afraid of Black Manta watching him go from relics to power hungry. 

Other cast include Nicole Kidman as Atlanna, Dolph Lundgren as Nereus, Temuera Morrison as Tom Curry, Vincent Regan as Atlan, Jani Zhao as Karshon, and Pilou Asbaek as Kordax. 

Warner Brothers is home to one of the most successful collections of brands in the world and stands at the forefront of every aspect of the entertainment industry from feature film, television and home entertainments with worldwide distribution to DVD and Bluray, animation, comic books, videogames and broadcasting. For more please visit www.warnerbros.com.

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM is a total cgi-fest from start to finish. The colors are vibrant and the underwater scenes are exactly what you would expect from special effects. That being said, the 3-D is unnecessary and not as crystal clear as I would expect for having to wearing uncomfortable glasses over my glasses.

The story in my opinion is muddled and doesn’t give the viewer time to invest in getting to understand what is happening. Sure, the saying of ‘watch the first one’ is a way to look at it yet it doesn’t change how I feel about the film as a whole. There is a funny Dad king, a brother with sibling issues and a mad bad guy – done.

I’m sure that people who are totally invested in DC will have no problem with the film. It seems geared toward that audience and maybe grab a few who just like Momoa (and who doesn’t) as Aquaman. I do like the relationship between Arthur and Orm as Momoa and Wilson with a combination of comedy and sibling rivalry. When the brothers are on screen it became easy to forget there are other characters. 

Scrooge is here to tell you nahhhhhh but I know that isn’t going to stop anyone from following the trident that gives Aquaman its audience pull. That being said – enjoy and happy holidays.

In the end – the tide is turning!


She is THE MARSH KING’S DAUGHTER

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Neil Burger, Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate is the intensity of a family that is dealing with the problems of being THE MARSH KING’S DAUGHTER.

Helena (Daisy Ridley) has been living a quiet life with husband Stephen (Garrett Hedlund) and daughter Marigold (Joey Carson). Yet, there is a past that still haunts her about her father Jacob Holbrook (Ben Mendelsohn), given the nickname The Marsh King, who is in prison. Keeping her head down and looking forward, that façade begins to crumble when Jacob escapes from custody.

The FBI lands on Helena’s door as they suspect he will land on her door. Stephen is confused as to why the government agency is in their house and Helena must tell him who her father truly is. There is so much more he needs to know but can not bring herself to talk about it. Equally surprising is her step-father Clark (Gil Birmingham) also arriving on her doorstep to make sure she is safe and trying to untie the strain in their relationship.

Trust is definetly not in her wheelhouse but when it threatens to destroy what she has built, Helena must make a decision.

That leads to back home to a cabin in the woods as Helena must come to terms with feelings she has been holding deep down. Those feelings and everything she learned as a child might be the one thing to save those she loves from a man she once adored more than anything. 

Ridley as Helena has the huge task of bringing the story of a young girl who lived a very secluded life and a way of remembering to adult life. Hiding it all in the shadows, Ridley’s Helena is a bit dark (understandably so) and the secrets are starting to leak out. I enjoyed watching her twist and weave through the characters memories as Helena begins to discover that her life is more of a puzzle than she realized.

Mendelsohn as Jacob was a perfect choice to play the man who taught his daughter everything he knew about survival in their marsh home. There is an immediate creepiness when first seeing Mendelsohn’s Jacob and, as a viewer, didn’t trust him right off. That’s how you know this is a character to keep an eye on. The effect on Helena with or without Jacob means that just the mere thought of this character sends her into chaos. When Mendelsohn is on the screen, it is all pure magic.

Birmingham as Clark is a man who just wants to protect Helena and not just because he is a cop. There is a history between them and he has seen what Jacob and that life did to the young girl and her mother. I always enjoy Birmingham’s performances and this one has just been added to the list of well-done characters. 

Hedlund as Stephen is a husband who is not only shocked by the past he had no clue about but confusion about how to deal with it when Helena stays silent. Hedlund role is small but motivating for the characters left to unravel the chaos. Carson as Marigold is just charming and so sweet. 
Shout out to Brooklynn Prince as the younger Helena – what an outstanding performance of a young girl who knows nothing different about life than the one she was living. Her dedication to Jacob and her wariness of her own mother gives rise to adulthood difficulties.

Other cast include Brooklynn Prince as young Helena, Caren Pistorius as Helena’s mother, Pamela MacDonald as Mrs. Haver, Dan Abramovici as Max, Imali Perera as Donna, and Sophia Walker as Monica. 

Lionsgate is a global leader in motion picture production and distribution for theatres, television, home entertainment and more. Theatre franchises include THE HUNGER GAMES, and DIVERGENT along with JOHN WICK. Now, adding this film to its 16,000-motion picture and television titles you can see everything coming soon as well as available now at http://www.lionsgate.com.

Roadside Attractions has, since 2003, grossed over $300M and garnered nineteen Academy Award nominations. They have had critical and commercial hits such as MANCHESTER BY THE SEA, BEN IS BACK, BEATRIZ AT DINNER, HELLO MY NAME IS DORIS, WINTER’S BONE and THE COVER as well as so many others. For more information of what Roadside Attractions has to offer please visit www.roadsideattractions.com.

THE MARSH KING’S DAUGHTER is the story of a young girl’s very secluded life and an adult version who is trying to come to terms with the two. The story is taken from the 2017 novel The Marsh King’s Daughter written by Karen Dionne. She used her own experience living in the wilderness to create a setting that works beautifully for the storyline. Seeing Daisy Ridley play the character of Helena, Dionne says, “Ridley has the right demeanor to play this role. The emotion she puts across her face that I was so impressed. It’s a pleasure to watch her bring my character to life and I am beyond excited”.

Director Burger says, “Ridley came in and so right for the part. We talked a lot about this woman’s emotional journey and her past.” The combination of Ridley’s Helena and keeping the setting close allows the telling to flow organically and to come full circle. Following from book to screen, Dionne’s words and descriptions gave Burger everything he needed for the film. 

I truly enjoyed THE MARSH KING’S DAUGHTER because, although a little quick at times, there is such a deep background story of these characters. The viewer is given pieces to a life puzzle for these characters but not at all once, instead it is a step by step. There are deep inhale stunning moments and as the story unfolds, a new view of Helena begins to form. Well done to everyone!

In the end – fear the past or face it!


Reminisce with WHAT HAPPENS LATER

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Meg Ryan and Bleecker Street comes a rom-com that remembers things differently when WHAT HAPPENS LATER.

Wilhelmina Davis (Meg Ryan) is trying to catch a plane to Boston, William Davis (David Duchovny) is trying to catch a plane to Austin. At the same airport at the same time, they both run into a huge problem, well two huge problems. One, a cyclone bomb of a winter storm is grounding airplanes and the second, they know one another.

Doing the “I hope he/she doesn’t see me” dance of covering their faces and hiding behind pillars, it doesn’t help when they finally come face to face. Their story immediately spills out as they were together in their early 20’s. Willa remembers it was William who did the leaving, William believes they parted on good terms – neither is remembering the truth.

Now, William/Bill is dealing with his own marriage and the fact that he upset his 15-year-old daughter with words he regrets saying but doesn’t know how to fix. Willa is trying to help a friend get out of a stick situation in her own home. Knowing they can’t avoid one another; they almost instantly fall into old bantering patterns which is their way of flying around the truth of how they really feel.

As the airport shuts down leaving the two passengers/lovers/acquittances stranded, there is nothing left to do but drink, reminisce, try to dig through the honestly of their parting and come to terms with the pain that that happens when you are 20 and remembering when you are 50+. It’s never to late to speak of the past, understand the pain and then look into each other’s eyes and forgive.

It could happen!

Ryan as Willa is a woman who seems to be stuck somewhere between Bill leaving and a grounded airplane. Knowing that blaming him for everything has solved nothing as the years have gone by and a rain stick isn’t about to give her answers – only telling the truth. Ryan gives us her 1993 YOU’VE GOT MAIL quirkiness and 1989 WHEN HARRY MET SALLY vibe clothing choice along with a mixing of every character she has played in a rom-com. That’s not a bad thing because if the formula works then don’t change it. The role of Willa is charming in all respects so it works for Ryan.

Duchovny as William/Bill gets a chance to flex his comedy muscles and tackle the Ryan-clock of verbal witticisms and timing. He takes his punches but doesn’t hesitate to make sure that a sword can cut both ways. Not meaning to wound, only to poke a little at the fabric that Willa has woven regarding their past relationship. Bringing in a little light is meant to help her see but also forces Duchovny’s Bill to reevaluate his own perspective of what he has been telling himself about that time so long ago. 

Bleecker Street is a New York City film company that has brought outstanding films to the public. Their library includes TRUMBO, DENIAL, THE LOST CITY OF Z, BEIRUT, HOTEL MUMBAI, ORDINARY LOVE and THE ROADS NOT TAKEN. For more information on the titles from Bleeker Street please visit www.bleeckerstreetmedia.com.

WHAT HAPPENS LATER is a comedy absolutely geared toward a certain age group of viewers because, quite honestly, I can’t imagine someone in their 20s being all that interested. The pull is the late 80’s early 90’s when Ryan reign supreme as the queen of rom-com’s. The film is based on the 2008 play Shooting Star by Steven Dietz but it is quite clear that Ryan paid attention to creator/director Nora Ephron’s ability to give us love, loss and soulful reconciliation and nods her in the credits.

This is plainly a story of two people finding themselves of a certain age (don’t you hate those two words put together, certain and age?) who find themselves coming face to face with their younger selves trapped in older bodies. Let’s face it, in our 20s we all do stupid stuff, make crazy decisions and jump to conclusions that, as our characters discover, are all wrong. That being said, and if you believe in fate, then we are destined to do those things to find our way around life. No one gets it right and W. Davis and W. Davis are proof of that.

It is a charming film with moments of good punch lines, good sucker punches and sweet seconds when these characters let down their guard. Ryan and Duchovny make it work and even give it a little rain stick magic as they carry the film on their own with no outside help (pun intended). Turn on the fireplace, cozy up with a soft blanket and a glass of whatever and enjoy their journey together, or is it trip? You decide. 

In the end – they missed their connection!




THE HUNGER GAMES: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Francis Lawrence and Lionsgate is the return to Panem with THE HUNGER GAMES: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.

It is sixty-four years before Katniss Everdeen becomes the girl-on-fire in Panem. In this time, the Snow family, now headed by Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) is attempting to care for Grandma’am (Fionnula Flanagan) and Tigris (Hunter Schafer). Believing doing well in school put him in the running for a financial award. Arriving dressed in the best he has, a classmate warns him of what is to come.

Creator of games Dr. Volumnia Gaul (Viola Davis) makes the announcement that there will a change in the 10th Annual Hunger Games as mentors will be assigned to the district players. Coriolanus is assigned to Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler) from District 12. Believing the best way to help Lucy Gray is by showing a bit of friendship to gain her trust and to make those in the capitol want to donate for things she may need.

Yet, there are those who are not happy with the games and Dr. Gaul makes it clear that they are losing the audience. Watching everything that is happening is Dean Casca Highbottom (Peter Dinklage) who is subtle in making his stance to the mentors on what is possible for their players survival. 

As the games begin, host Lucky Flickerman (Jason Schwartzman) attempts to rally the audience into investing in who the players are. Their donations bring water and other essentials that could keep them in the games. Coriolanus has already given instructions on how Lucy Gray could survive but as the signal is given for the games to begin, it is all out brutality. 

Coriolanus realizes that what he once believed is perhaps not the reality of living in the Capitol. There is also the beginning of something more between he and Lucy Gray but nothing can come if it unless they both survive!

Blyth as Snow begins as the head of a family that consists of his grandmother and sister living the life that is destitute and held together by pretense. Laying his silly blue eyes on Lucy Grey, he knows what he has to do to help her survive but its for the prospect of money and a pull towards this interesting girl. Blyth as Snow is fine but that’s about what I would expect. If there is another chapter, he will be fine again but I’m hoping this character develops because right now he’s just a love-struck puppy that is stuck.

Zegler as Lucy Gray, to be honest, I found nothing about the character that draws me in. Instead, the role is hollow, predictable and really irritating. Her easter egg of doing a bow at the reaping just annoyed me totally. I’m not sure who the character is trying to be but it gets no help from Zegler (and please don’t let her sing again). 

Dinklage as Highbottom is everything. The fact that I love everything he does helps but he also kind of reminds me of Plutarch Heavensbee in the standoff mannerisms and the way he subtly hints at things. 

Flanagan as Grandma’am continues to be the grand damn of the Snow household and does it well. Schafer as Tigris reminds me of a young Effie Trinket in her needle skills to help her brother look his best. She’s also demur but well aware of their situation. Schwartzman as Flickerman is in the same category as Lucy Gray and I’ll leave it at that. 

Davis as Dr. Gaul is just overly everything that I just don’t understand. Trust that I love me some Ms. Davis but this role just doesn’t do anything for me as a viewer. Making her look a bit psychotic probably doesn’t help making it difficult for me to understand her true purpose being drastic by the manic close ups.

Other cast include Sexter Ansell as a young Coriolanus, Rosa Gotzler as a young Tigris, Ashley Liao as Clemensia Dovecote, Joshua Kantara as Gaius Breen, Amelie Hoeferle as Vipsania Sickle, florian Burgkart as Hilarius Heavensbee, Ayomide Adegun as Pliny Harrington, Aaron Schultz as Apollo Ring, Max Raphael as Festus Creed, Yalany Marschner as Dennis Fling, Anni Baumann as Iphigenia Moss, Flora Li Thiemann as Livia Cardew, Zoe Renee as Lysistrata Vickers, Lilly Cooper Arachne Crane, Carl Spencer as Smiley, George Somner as Spruce, Aamer Husain as Felix Ravinstill, and Josh Rivera as Sejanus Plinth.

Also, Tim Torok as Facet, Mackenzie Lansing as Coral, Cooper Dillon as Mizzen, Hiroki Berrecloth as Treech, Irene Bohm as Lamina, Knox Gibson as Bobbin, Sofia Sanchez as Wovey, Kjell Brutscheidt as Tanner, Luna Steeples as Dill, Dimitri Abold as Reaper, Nick Benson as Jessup, Isobel Jones as Mayfair Lipp, Marc Gray as Mayor Lipp, Raphael Zari as Lil, Dakota Shapiro as Billy, Vaughan Reilly as Maude, Honor Gillies as Barb, Eike Onyambu as Tam, Scott Folan as Beanpole and Burn Gorman as Commander Hoff. 

Lionsgate is a global leader in motion picture production and distribution for theatres, television, home entertainment and more. Theatre franchises include THE HUNGER GAMES, and DIVERGENT along with JOHN WICK. Now, adding this film to its 16,000-motion picture and television titles you can see everything coming soon as well as available now at http://www.lionsgate.com.

Well, as you can probably tell, I did not have a good time watching this film. It just felt like a mish-mash of a story with a few crazy characters thrown in and a bit of musical to wear out the viewer in two hours and thirty-seven minutes. The cast is too large for me to even grasp who each of them is and what part they play – other than the next dead player. I did want to give credit where credit is due so I did an extra-long cast list.

I did enjoy the cinematography and special effects because it does have the feel of THE HUNGER GAMES that I came to enjoy. Telling me to ‘go read the book’ isn’t helpful in this situation because I shouldn’t have to read the book in order to enjoy the film. If you are going to do a prequel of a successful film franchise line then give me something that welcomes me back – I didn’t get it with the film. 

Did I want to like it? Yes. I’m sure the film will do well with fans and I hope they enjoy it because this is, after all, about dedicated fans and what they want. I’m sure they believe that director Lawrence will give it to them.

In the end – you’re invited to return to the games!


BOUDICA: Queen of War

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres, On Demand and Digital from writer/director Jesse V. Johnson and Saban Films comes the story of strength and leading warriors with BOUDICA: Queen of War.

Boudica (Olga Kurylenko) lives a quiet life with husband King Prasutagus (Clive Standen) and her two beautiful daughters in Britannia. Emperor Nero (Harry Kirton) is not happy with the people in that country, especially when learning that they believe a woman warrior is coming. To stop that, Nero orders that no woman will hold a high office or crown while he’s alive. 

When the Roman’s make a visit to Britannia, it is clear they are wanting to make trouble. When King Prasutagus visits the other Iceni villages, he is attacked leaving Boudica to be crowned Queen. That doesn’t last when the Roman’s discover this is happening, they make it clear that now she is Queen of nothing and punish her in the most heinous of ways.

Rescued by Cartimanda (Lucy Martin), the village makes it clear that she is their rightful Queen and the Druid (James Faulkner) officiates the crowning once again. At first, Wolfar (Peter Franzen) is not happy believing he has what it takes to lead. Quickly he sees things that are unexplainable and realizes that Boudica has something very special.

What starts out as revenge for her husband turns into Boudica knowing that she must fight for her people and their freedom from the suppression inflicted on them by the Romans. Fight after fight, Boudica shows strength, courage and the power of belief.

Kurylenko as Boudica gives us a character who clearly loves her husband and girls, enjoying their life together. When the Romans invade, and they do invade in every way possible, she has people who depend on the crown she is given. Once realizing she is caught between the dream world and reality, Kurylenko helps to marry the two making the story even more amazing. Given the true history of Boudica, Kurylenko doesn’t hesitate to put her own strength and power into the role. 

Franzen as Wolfar is a man who believes he is a strong leader for the people. Not sure he wants to follow the new Queen; it doesn’t take long before he is a witness’ the very reason why Boudica is the not only the right person but the chosen person to lead. Frazen’s character follows orders and even has moments to flirt with the Queen but all in all believes that she believes in their cause and so does he. His portrayal is charming, disarming and ferocious all at the same time. 

Other cast includes Nick Moran as Catus Decianus, Leo Gregory as Ciaran, Yarden Toussia-Cohen as Cosmetae, Rachel Wilde (Rosmerta, James G. Nunn as Tamesas and Kris Johnson as Gaius Suetonius Paulinus.

Saban Films was launched in 2014 and has built an impressive slate of high-quality feature films distributed with partner Lionsgate. Focusing on talent-driven films, the company looks at projects in all stages of production to be released across multiple platforms. Films such as SISTER OF THE GROOM, FATMAN and BREACH are part of the wonderful Saban slate, and more information can be found at www.sabanfilms.com.

Jesse Johnson says, “There’s something heart-breaking about Thomas Thornycroft’s statue of Boudica and her daughters in Westminster; the mother and daughters appear to move, breathing as you watch them clinging to the speeding chariot. The placement of the statue beside the Houses of Parliament, just beneath Big Ben gives you a clue to the importance of these three women to this island nation. Looking back, I realize I have been fueled by a deep desire to ensure the audience hears her story and that they understand that what she fought for meant something.”

BOUDICA is the story of a woman who goes against a Roman Emperor and his need to control everything, including the coming of Boudica. Suppressing the people of Britannia, Boudica called upon her people to remember what life was like before the Roman’s invaded and occupied their lands. Freedom and liberty are what all the people wanted and Boudica was going to do whatever it took to give it to them.

Making that happen began when Boudica took her people to Camuldounum and made it clear that nothing or no one would be spared to show Rome that the Iceni tribes were serious. That was only the beginning of her campaigns. Today, sculptor Thomas Thornycroft, encouraged by Prince Albert, created a stunning statue of Boudica and her daughters that still stands today next to the Westminster Bridge.  

This film gives a brief look at the life of a woman who experienced a wonderful life, a painful life and a life that made her a warrior!

In the end – it’s a battle she is willing to take on for freedom!



SHE CAME TO ME

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writer/director Rebecca Miller and Vertical Entertainment comes the story of love, life and the messiness in between with SHE CAME TO ME. 

Steven Lauddem (Peter Dinklage) writes and composes opera for the theatre and has hit a creative road block. Frustrated, he turns to wife Patricia (Anne Hathaway) but she is too busy either cleaning the house or cleaning up the lives of her patience being a therapist. Son Julian (Evan Ellison) is also living his best life having just turned 18 and in his final year of high school as well as having a love of his own with Tereza (Harlow Jane). So, Steven is plodding along waiting for his next inspiration to strike. He doesn't have to wait long.

While bellying up to the bar to drown his sorrows at the local watering hole, Steven meets Katrina (Marisa Tomei), a romance addict tug boat captain who seduces the lost married man. Knowing he has just made a mistake; he hurries back to life leaving it all behind. That is until he decides that his creative block is over, he produces an opera loosely based on his experience and it is well received. Even wife Patricia is moved by the work and Steven starts feeling better!

Patricia hires cleaning lady Magdalena (Joanna Kulig) to help with her compulsive need for cleanliness and when Julian arrives home from school and is introduced, an awkward moment becomes apparent when Tereza recognizes Magdalena. If that isn't strange enough, Patricia beings to find a new compulsion to hang out at the Catholic church and isn't really sure why. Equally as bizarre is that Katrina has seen the new opera and is once again infatuated with Steven, love and a bit of stalking.

When Magdalena discovers what daughter Tereza has been doing, she finds pictures and takes them to Trey (Brian d'Arcy James) to figure out what to do next. Trey decides he is going to become Tereza's jailer but mom might have something to say about it. When everyone's problems become a stage production, all hands-on deck come up with answers that will take each of them in different directions they never could have seen coming and a happiness they had all been missing. 

Dinklage as Steven is a man who loves his creativity so when it eludes him, he goes into a funk and the wife has to snap him out of it. Thinking that a walk will do it, it is actually an encounter with a tug boat captain and a dip in the ocean that changes everything. Dinklage is so strong in this role that his insecurities react depending on who is in front of him and the emotional consequences. Even at his most panicked, Dinklage is charming, boyish but equally protective and secretly gamed to explore the world that frightens him.

Hathaway as Patricia is a woman with more issues than any magazine rack could ever possibly hold. She is regimented in her dress, the house and the lives of her family but buried somewhere underneath is a desire that no one could have imagined. Hathaway gives us a straight-forwardness in these characters regimented life mixed in with a suppression that she ignores but it seeps through her skin.

Tomei as Katrina admits to anyone who will listen that she has an issue with romance - she wants it, craves it and has gotten herself into trouble trying to find it. Blurring the lines between her encounter with Steven and how she handles it makes one thing clear - boundaries, girl, boundaries. Tomei is rough around the edges but none-the-less charming in that she wants what most people don't say out loud. Her tug boat crew sees her for who she truly is but they don't have their caps screwed on very tight either. 

Kulig as Magdalena is a woman who is also trapped by her choices as well. Sometimes it is easier to just plod along a familiar path and make no waves, but life has a way of causing ripples and Magdalena has to make hard choices. Kulig is a relatable character and I immediately wanted to tell her character to 'run!' away from her marriage, that's a good character portrayal.

Ellison as son Julian seems to be handling life extremely well considering who his parents are but also coming to the age were trying to avoid their adult problems is getting more difficult. He is happy with his future choices, love and the prospect of college so it’s mainly go along to get along. Jane as Tereza is a few years younger than love Julian but already knows what it is she wants - and it isn't life with her parents.  

Other cast include Aalok Mehta as Anton, Dale Soules as Auntie Moxie, Samuel H. Levine as Raef Gundel, Jen Ponton as Elodie, Bryan Terrell Clark as Frank Hall, 

Vertical Entertainment is a global independent distributor that offers a unique wealth of experience minus the studio costs. They have won a Film Independent Spirit Award for Best Actress for Molly Shannon’s role in OTHER PEOPLE and the film won a GLAAD Award for Outstanding Film Limited Release, Best International Film for Babak Anvari’s UNDER THE SHADOW, a BAFTA and three Independent British Independent Film Awards as well.

SHE CAME TO ME is original and twistedly honest look at love when the lines we try so hard to cover up, intersect and there is nowhere to hide from it. These are people who are either stuck in what is expected of them no matter what past trauma sits right below the surface or have become afraid of their own dreams lost in shadows. The younger couple have those same dreams and fear, it just hasn't reached such epic proportion in them as it has in the adults. In the middle are indecisions and crossed lines that let each person know to either stand up or stay seated in life.

I also love the quirky factor in each of these characters and the reactions they have that are just a little over the top. There are degrees of overreactions and many that totally flip the script but each fit the characters perfectly. Even the totally gross Trey started out with quirks until his twists showed easily. The operas had me thinking 'what the heck?' but couldn't turn away from it either with its flowy music and beautiful sets. 

The thing is, in the end, they all found their content spot. I don't say happy because that's a subjective word but in their faces at the final opera, on the tub boat, they find a contentment and I'm all about it for each character. It’s a mix of stage creatives, therapists, housekeepers, stenographers, tub boat captains and a couple of kids who think they already have the world figured out and they are all in for a huge surprise.  

In the end - sometimes you need to get lost!

MY SAILOR, MY LOVE

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this week from director Klaus Härö and Music Box Films is the story of raw emotion one more time with MY SAILOR, MY LOVE.

Howard (James Cosmo) is a retired sailor who is set in his ways. His daughter Grace (Catherine Walker) has been taking care of him as much as possible while trying to hold down a job and deal with her own marriage to Martin (Aidan O’Hare). Deciding to make a change, Grace hires Annie (Brid Brennan) as a housekeeper for Howard.

He is not at all pleased at being managed and within days manages to insult Annie and tries to make amends. Howard discovers that having Annie around has awaken him a bit. Spending time with Annie’s family and friends, Grace becomes angry herself and wants to put Annie in her place reminding that she is a housekeeper.

Seeing her father begin to enjoy being around people with laughter and a cheerful she hasn’t been privy to for ages, Grace wants to make it clear to Annie who she is dealing with. Howard and Annie have become more than just friends and its sets Grace on edge. So, when her father becomes ill, Grace uses that as a weapon to keep the two lovers apart. It becomes clear who the real problem is in all of it.

Walker as Grace is a woman with so many issues, they wouldn’t all fit on a magazine rack. Childhood trauma, feelings of jealousy, stressed out and stretched thin, a bit of martyrdom and a whole lot of rage are all wrapped up in this character. Walker doles it out in pieces at first but the steam in the kettle is about to blow. I enjoyed Walker’s portrayal but have been a huge fan since her portrayal of Francoise de Maintenon in the 2018 hit series VERSAILLES.

Cosmo as Howard is cantankerous and snappy with a family that either ignores him most of the time or smothers him all of the time. Living off the grid surrounded by green hills and water, he simply wants to be left alone. Cosmo gives us a look inside his life and home and it is a sad one, that is until Annie. His past is behind him and once again he experiences joy and Cosmo gives us that as well. Cheering for Howard became my thing watching the film and it is this actor’s portrayal that did it. 

Brennan as Annie is just as lovely as she could possibly be. She wants to take the position of housekeeper to just be out in the world but certainly didn’t expect the likes of Howard. Once she gets past the grouchiness, Brennan’s Annie shows Howard the beauty still left in their elder lives. She is the breath of fresh air that Grace can not understand. Annie falls for Howard in all his faults and again, Grace can not comprehend it. Brennan is such a dear in this role and is exactly where she needs to be by the films end (have tissue).

Other cast includes Nora-Jane Noone as Kelly, Bob Kelly as Brian, Nova Farrelly as Belinda, Molly McCann as Alison, Carol O’Reilly as Suzy, Ciara Fallon as Melanie, Shane McCarthy as Alex, Shane G. Casey as Terry, Tara Flynn as Sarah and Tim Landers as Walter.

Music Box Films is the prestigious North American distributor of acclaimed international, independent, and documentary feature films. Recent releases include Eric Gravel’s Cesar nominated thrilling social drama FULL TIME and Rebecca Zlotowski’s OTHER PEOPLE’S CHILDREN. Music Box Films also owns and operates Music Box Theatre, Chicago’s premier venue for independent and foreign films. For more of what they have to offer please go to www.musicboxfilms.com

MY SAILOR, MY LOVE has been nominated for Best Film, Best Direction and Best Production Design by the Jussi Awards. It has won Best Feature Film by the Cleveland International Film Festival, Best Narrative Feature by the Wisconsin Film Festival, and Audience Choice Award for International Film by the Chicago International Film Festival.

Härö says of his actors, “The cast has been an immense joy, from the moment the roles were confirmed and when we first went on set. I would often sit very close by to the actors and get to witness what goes into their work, which left me very impressed.” I couldn’t agree more in that this cast is so impressive.

This story grabs into almost every absolute human emotion in how we hurt one another and how deep and how long it is carried throughout life. The character of Grace is such a bundle of rawness and it takes an Annie-straw to break the camels back. It is not immediate but it is there and so painful to watch.

Howard has just as many secrets as his daughter Grace and he has chosen to hide it all his own way yet it is not new by any stretch. As much as Howard and Grace are annoyed by one another, it is the reason why they are frustrated that slowly boils to the surface. Annie is the unwitting catalyst to it all coming to a boiling point and for that I felt so sorry. On the flip side, it doesn’t change Annie’s feelings because she is based in love, acceptance and forgiveness – something the other two clearly aren’t familiar with.

Keeping the locations simple allow the viewer to get deep into the story without distraction. That and I’m a huge fan of simplicity when telling this kind of heartfelt story. I want to feel part of it all even thought I’m just a spying fly on the wall of it all. This is the story of love, pain and the trauma of both even if Howard and Grace don’t know it yet.

In the end – it is never too late!


DESPERATION ROAD

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Nadine Crocker and Lionsgate comes a thriller based on the book by Michael Farris Smith of people on DESPERATION ROAD.

Recently out of an 11-year prison stint, Russell Gaines (Garrett Hedlund) is met in town by a very angry Larry (Ryan Hurst) who makes it clear that he is out for revenge for the death of his brother. At home, Russell's father Mitchell (Mel Gibson) is happy to see his son and realizes that problems are not far behind. Also in trouble is Maben (Willa Fitzgerald), a young mother trying to find a life with daughter Annalee (Pyper Braun). After a horrific incident, Maben will do anything to get away and comes across Russell. Offering to help them, they find refuge at Mitchell's place.

Investigating is officer and childhood friend Sheriff Boyd (Woody McClain) who believes there is some connection but cannot seem to find it. Trying to believe that Russell had nothing to do with it becomes difficult when he constantly disappears or only tells half-truths. Following up leads, Boyd discovers that someone named Maben may be involved and suspects that Russell knows more than he's saying. One thing becomes clear, it is serendipitous that Maben found Russell in the first place as he comes clean with the unspoken connection between the two of them from years before. 

Larry is on a rampage and ex-wife Dana (Kate Foster) sees that his rage is going to get people hurt as a police chase gives way. Russell decides to come clean about everything to Boyd so that the chips will fall where they need to for some to be safe and some to pay. That's when the story has a chance to change and the potential for life to begin again. 

Hedlund as Russell gives the performance of a man that has spent a long time beating himself up emotionally so that when someone is beating him physically, it doesn't seem to hurt. A mistake made years before, this character is reliving it on the daily and believes that he still has so much to pay for. Hedlund gives us the down-home country boy who completely understands how everything in his life went wrong and lives for ways to make it right. That being said, even he knows that some things can never be made right, they can only change in forgiveness and perspective. That's what Hedlund's Russell shows from the first frame to the last.

Fitzgerald as Maben is a woman also trying to escape something bad but with each step she takes, it only leads her to more bad. Her daughter is everything and there is nothing she won't do to protect her and that's when someone decides to use a mother's love in heinous ways. Maben doesn't trust, nor does she have any reason to but when her back is up against the wall, she must trust strangers. Fitzgerald is quietly pensive and always ready to run in her character of Maben, well done! Young Braun as Annalee is seeing the worst that adults do to one another but, at the same time, would change nothing to be with her mother.

Hurst as Larry is a man who has also been hurt and takes every opportunity to lash out. The arrival of Russell just sends the steaming pot overflowing with anger and a vengeful mind. Let me say this, having watched Hurst as Oppy in the series Sons of Anarchy (a personal favorite that I have watched repeatedly) and as Beta on AMC"s The Walking Dead, I don't know where he gets the rage from but, man, he scares me - which is the point! McClain as Sheriff Boyd is happy to finally see his friend out of prison, but the town ugliness has him questioning his friend. When he doesn't like the answers or doesn't believe them, he searches harder because the questions keep coming. 

Shout out to Mel Gibson as dad Mitchell who doesn't question much about what is happening with his son and makes it clear that 'I got your back' means something in their family. Gibson is protective and doesn't seem to worry about much in the way of people bothering him - but bother his family, well, that's a whole other weapon carrying situation.

Other cast include Ella Thomas as Sarah Magee, Michael Aaron Milligan as Walt, Katey Bodenhamer as Lacey, Frank Blake as Officer Jay, Bonita Elery as Brenda, Kyle Rankin as Jason and Paulina Galvez as Consuela.

Lionsgate is a global leader in motion picture production and distribution for theatres, television, home entertainment and more. Theatre franchises include THE HUNGER GAMES, and DIVERGENT along with JOHN WICK. Now, adding this film to its 16,000-motion picture and television titles you can see everything coming soon as well as available now at http://www.lionsgate.com.

DESPERATION ROAD is the story of small-town living, corruption, family, secrets, anger and redemption all tied up into a neat little grungy package. Book author Farris wrote the screenplay himself which is why the story seems to stay organically close to the page. Farris also has other works in the pipeline with THE FIGHTER and BLACKWOOD. Director Crocker previously worked on the film CONTINUE bringing her filmography up to two with DESPERATION ROAD. 

It is not a fast-paced film but instead takes its time in showing the progression of past mistakes and the pain as it comes toward the inevitability in the future. The possibility of redemption is always there but it comes at a cost and those who are willing to pay it. The cast each take their time to draw out their back stories and how it all comes to affect their futures

In the end – redemption can be had but at a cost!


THE EXORCIST: Believer

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director David Gordon Green, Blumhouse and Universal Pictures is preparing for Halloween with THE EXORCIST: Believer.

Victor (Leslie Odom Jr.) and pregnant wife Sorenne (Tracey Graves) are visiting Haiti and spending time photographing the sites. Sorenne meets a group of women that bless her but not before an earthquake hits and sending everyone reeling.

Years have passed and Victor is raising daughter Angela (Lidya Jewett) as a single father. They have a special relationship but Angela wants to know about her mother. Off to school, she meets up with friend Katherine (Olivia Marcum) who are making plans after school. Fibbing to their parents about where they really are, the girls find a spot in the forest and try to reach Angela’s mother spiritually.

When Victor gets home, Angela is not anywhere to be found. He reaches out to Katherine’s parents mom Miranda (Jennifer Nettles) and Tony (Norbet Leo Butz). Everyone becomes frantic as law enforcement spread far and wide looking for the girls in the forest. Friend Stuart (Danny McCarthy) even calls in some spiritualists to seek out Angela with Dr. Beehibe (Okwui Okpokwasili) which sends Victor into a tizzy.

Days later, the girls are found and neighbor Ann (Ann Dowd) who works at the hospital as a nurse sees to Angela. The girls are in shock and when cleared by the police go home but they don’t stay there as something peculiar is happening to them. As things become progressively worse for the girls, Ann tells Victor that he needs to speak to the one person who might be able to help – Chris MacNeil (Ellen Burstyn).

Fifty years prior, her own daughter Regan became possessed and Victor feels as if there is something she can do to help. The girls have become dangerous and Victor decides that it is time to take matters into his own hands. Bringing together Katherine’s parents, Dr. Beehibe, Stuart, Pastor Revans (Raphael Sbarge) and Father Maddox from the Catholic church under one roof, it is time to call out the evil!

Odom Jr. as Victor is a father who is still mourning his wife while trying to raise an awesome daughter. When things start to become strange, he has decisions to make and the evil knows how to use his emotions against him. Odom Jr. is fine in the role but there isn’t anything extraordinary about it. He is on the ball playing Victor and there is that.

Jewett as Angela is a young girl who just wants to know more about her mother. In doing so, the spiritual door is open and chaos happens to all. Jewett gets a chance to go from sweet to evil kid and it works. Marcum as Katherine does not get as much screen time as Angela but when she does, it is all about ‘the body and the blood’ because if I had been in church, I think I’d have run out the door!

Dowd as Ann the nurse and picky next-door neighbor is the person who knows that Victor needs the advice of Chris MacNeil. I have been a long-time follower of Dowd’s career because she has the same amazing ability as Burstyn to play such diverse roles from the empathetic to the out-and-out twisted. An example of it is her complexity in character can be seen in the 2017 series THE HANDMAID’S TALE. Dowd played the role of Aunt Lydia Clements and absolutely dominated that character and, of course, we loved to hate her!

Nettles as Miranda is a mother who is going to do whatever it takes to help her daughter, even if it goes against her husband and their church. Watching her agree with Victor, to me, was the high point of her role. Butz as Tony is a man who just can’t deal with everything that is happening because it is far beyond his comprehension. Butz’s character wants to go along to get along but, in the end, he makes decisions based solely on fear.

McCarthy as Stuart is a supportive friend and is not about to let Victor go through this alone. Sbarge as Pastor Revans sort of believes what is happening but until he sees it for himself, it is then when he realizes his faith has to be enough to help. Okpokwasili as Dr. Beehibe brings her belief system as well and helps set up the battle that is to come.

Shout out to Ellen Burstyn because I have always admired her. To come back is amazing and I was all in. That being said, I did not like the way her character was basically used to hold up the story the film was trying to tell. Her original 1973 role was so stunning on the screen and I’m holding on to that!

Other cast include Antoni Corone as Father Phillips, Chandu Kanuri as Daniel, Norah Murphy as Hannah, Linda Boston as Principle and Richard Carr III as the Doctor. 

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

Blumhouse Productions is known for producing horror films such as PARANORMAL ACTIVITY, INSIDIOUS, SINISTER, THE PURGE, THE GIFT, GET OUT, HAPPY DEATH DAY and SPLIT. The films from Blumhouse have become instant classics and they continue to give us something to scream about! See more at www.blumhouse.com

Okay, I’m sure this isn’t going to go over well but, quite honestly, I was not impressed by the film from beginning to end. There was basically no reason for any of it – it’s a possession and there is nothing new, original or scary anymore about that storyline. Using two girls in the film didn’t make anything about it better.

Starting out in Haiti reminded me of the 1977 EXORCIST II: The Heretic and the storyline of the boy Kokumo in Africa and the demon Pazuzu. Then. bringing in Chris MacNeil to do what? Without giving anything away, my reaction is ‘really?’ You can’t have one outstanding solid rock to hold up a sand house. Now, an updated Chris MacNeil story made more sense to me and would have totally been an AMAZING film potentially that I would love to have seen! Can you imagine it? I can!

The problem with possession films is that there is nothing new – it’s possession, an evil unnamed demon and casting out – done. The 1973 William Friedkin THE EXORCIST film set a high standard for frightening audiences that is unmatched in story and horror on a whole other level that has not been repeatable in the last 50 years. But hey, don’t let me stop you!

In the end – the evil is back!


THE CREATOR

Jeri Jacquin

Coming this week to theatres from writer/director Gareth Edwards and 20th Century Studios is the future when they are all looking for THE CREATOR.

Joshua (John David Washington) is a happy man living on a remote tropical island with his love Maya (Gemma Chan). Expecting their first child, it is the calm of the island and the sound of the waves that keeps them happy. But this is the future and A.I. has become a serious issue and after a horrific incident in Los Angeles, the A.I. are being hunted by the hundreds. The military and their leaders are looking for Nirata, the one responsible for creating more of the A.I. 

When it becomes clear that Joshua has a plan, Maya tries to escape the island with the military led by Colonel Howell (Allison Janney) closing in for destruction. Taking Joshua to Los Angeles, he now has the job of cleaning up the A.I. that are destroyed. He is then approached General Andrews (Ralph Ineson) and Howell wanting help in finding the location of the Nirmata and his chance to see Maya once again. They want the secret weapon they believe will control all A.I. and destroy the human race. 

Who Joshua discovers is Alphie (Madeleine Yuna Voyles), a young A.I. who knows where Maya is. During a fire fight, they are rescued by Harun (Ken Watanabe) who begins to see a connection between Joshua and Alphie but there is no time as Howell and bulldog McBride (Marc Menchaca) are not going to let them get away. Jumping from place to place, everyone is looking for elusive Nirmata.

It is up to Joshua and Alphie to stop the military from their continual destruction, the same destruction they blame on the A.I.’s. 

Washington as Joshua is a man on a mission, but what mission might that be? In a world that has turned itself upside down, the question becomes who is the good guy and who should be feared? Joshua’s only goal in all of the goings on is to find his love Maya, but along the way he learns what the truths are and his goal is to once again protect love. I enjoyed Washington’s performance given that most of his time is spend running.

Voyles as Alphie is charming and probably smarter than everyone else around her. Although this character is filled with emotion, Alphie manages to overcome the urge to react to them in a way that is destructive. The youngling sees the best and worst the world has to offer and responds in kind. Voyles is captivating as Alphie and enjoyable to watch her take this role and make it her own.

Janney as Col. Howell is exactly what you would expect from a psycho military colonel who will use any manipulation possible to get results. She is twisted, hard and doesn’t mind shooting anything that gets in her way. Janney has the uncanny ability to choose characters that are multi-dimensional but this character has one goal – destruction.

Chan as Maya is Joshua’s love and spent her childhood being raised by A.I. She supports their cause and will do anything to help them. Chan knows a bit about A.I. acting as Mia in the 2012-18 series HUMANS. Menchaca as McBride is the mirror image of Col. Howell wanting to wreak havoc and destruction all in the name of ‘humanity’. Ineson as Andrews is the dark horse, almost literally, as we don’t really see his face but instead a hauntingly low growl of orders commanding the human military. 

Shout out to Ken Watanabe as Harun as he continues to prove how his presence on screen is so powerful. Personally, I think his eyes show so much depth in the way his characters responds to love, caring, anger, distress and that becomes important in playing this particular role. 

Other cast include Sturgill Simpson as Drew, Amar Chadha-Patel as Omni, Robbie Tann as Shipley, Michael Esper as Captain Cotton, Veronica Ngo as Kami, Ian Verdun as Daniels, Daniel Rodriguez as Hardwick, Rad Pereira as Lambert, Syd Skidmore as Bradbury, Karen Aldridge as Dr. Thankey and Teerwat Mulvilai as Boonmee.

Twentieth Century Studios brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to discover what other titles they have please visit www.20thcenturystudios.com.

THE CREATOR is a futuristic look at the complicated and destructive behavior driven by the fears of humanity toward their own creations. The concept and characters of the story, however, aren’t new. Watching the film, I can easily see the influences of STAR WARS (1977), THE GOLDEN CHILD (1986), INDEPENDENCE DAY (1996), A.I. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (2001), AVATAR (2009), ELYSIUM (2013), EX MACHINA (2014), HUMANS (2015) and FINCH (2021) along with so many, many more. 

It seems the film mainly shows off it’s ability to creative stunning visuals of machinery and its capability. There are some deep color and emotional filming of what is called ‘New Asia’ from villages to the temples that are very cool. The action sequences are just that, filled with action, chases, and weaponry.

The ‘human’ side of the story mainly comes from those fearful and angry carbon-based units who do not consider A.I.’s to be human at all. There ability to destroy is the main focus of everything that happens in the film. On the flip side are the A.I.’s who make it clear to Joshua what it is they truly want and it is embrace worthy.

Coming in at two hours and thirteen minutes, the ending is a little flat and predictable but it is a wild ride with a few twists and turns. The concept of love, relationships and fighting for what is right come out loud and clear.

In the end - humanity evolves!


​We Are ALL Officially in the BARBIE World

Jeri Jacquin

Currently in theatres from writer/director Greta Gerwig and Warner Bros. Pictures is a story of the most iconic world with BARBIE.

Barbie (Margot Robbie) is the stereotypical Barbie living in Barbieland. Here, the women are successful and believe in the empowerment of women and, more importantly, they can do anything! Happy with her life, house and friends, she is living her best doll life. Friend Ken (Ryan Gosling) adores Barbie but can’t seem to make a more serious boyfriend-girlfriend connection.

One morning Barbie wakes up and strange things begin to happen. From having a dark thought (oh no, not Barbie and a dark thought!) to flat feet, she begins to panic and looks for answers. Everyone, that’s all the other Barbie’s in Barbieland suggest talking to ‘weird’ Barbie (Katie McKinnon). This particular Barbie has been played with, well, a bit rough but seems to have answers to stereotypical Barbie’s many questions.

‘Weird’ Barbie tells stereotypical Barbie that she must go into the ‘real world’ to find the child playing with her. Off for a big adventure, Barbie shouldn’t be surprised that Ken has grabbed his roller blades and intends to join his friend on her quest. After a bit of surreal travelling, they end up at Venice Beach and people who aren’t really sure what they are seeing.

Barbie hunts for her person and meets Sasha (Ariana Greenblatt), her mom Gloria (American Ferrera) and the shock of the truth between the three women. Ken hits the books to discover the idea of a patriarchy coming from a girl power world. Wanting them found immediately is the Mattell CEO (Will Ferrell) and his group of male minions before Barbieland is turned on its axis! 

Once they all return to Barbieland, things have changed and Barbie needs the help of Barbie, Barbie, Barbie, Barbie, Barbie and even Midge to set their world right. There is no way these gals are going to let there be a Ken takeover – not on the lawn of their dream houses! When it comes time to decide on her life, the one and only Ruth (Rhea Perlman), creator of Barbie, has something to share with the open-hearted Barbara.

Robbie as Stereotypical Barbie is just that, a lovely Barbie who loves her life, her dreamhouse and all the other Barbie friends she has. Of course, she has style, an outlook that is positive and a desire to encourage all her friends. The one thing she isn’t sure of is Ken and his strange intentions towards her. Going into the real world is an eye opener and even more so a mind opener for her. Robbie gives us everything and more portraying a doll that has been in homes for more generations than we can count. She also brings on the laughs both big and small, high heeled feet or flat, stylish outfit or not, Robbie put it all on the line.

Gosling as Ken didn’t strike me as the person for the role and I’m happy to say I was wrong. Not only did Gosling become Ken, but gave the audience a Ken that we never thought of before. I will admit that the two other ladies sitting with me were cracking up as hard as I was. We spent so many minutes wiping tears away that we are probably going to have to see BARBIE again in case we missed anything. Watching him come out of a library started it all and his twisted understanding of a patriarchy is hilarious. Even when Ken was being, well Ken, we cheered for him to come back to a better and self-improved Ken. Gosling brought a matching exuberance to his role as Robbie does and for that, they literally are Barbie and Ken – okay, okay, Ken and Barbie.

Ferrera as Gloria is a hard-working mom who feels the connection as a parent slowly being eaten away. Feeling like she can’t seem to stop the spiral, she finds herself being creative and that’s what starts the Barbie beach ball rolling. Ferrera portrays her character like many moms feel when their kids get past the Barbie phase and into the madness of the hormone enraged teen years. As Gloria, when the chance to do something amazing presents itself, Ferrera gives us hope that escaping to Barbieland isn’t such a bad thing.

Greenblatt as Sasha is an angry and a bit rebellious teen who has no problem chewing people up. When Barbie tries to talk with Sasha, that very thing happens. Whatever her issues are, she certainly didn’t hesitate to take it out on a woman named Barbie. Not a fan of anything the life size doll stands for, she begrudgingly follows her mom to try and fix what became broken.

Shout out to Will Ferrell as the CEO of Mattel who is just a little too involved in how to get a doll back in the box.

On the Barbie side is Issa Rae as president Barbie, Alexandra Shipp as Barbie, Emma Mackey as Barbie, Hari Nef as Barbie, Sharon Rooney as Barbie, Ana Cruz Kayne as Barbie, Dua Lipa as Barbie, Nicola Coughlan as Barbie and Emerald Finnell as Midge.

On the Ken side is Simu Liu as Ken, Kingsley Ben-Adir as Ken, Ncuti Gatwa as Ken, Scott Evans as Ken, John Cena as Ken and Michael Cera as Allan.

Other cast include, Connor Swindells as Aaron, Ray Fearon as Dan of the FBI, Erica Ford as Skipper, Hannah Khalique-Brown as Browing up Skipper, Marisa Abela as Teen Talk Barbie, Lucy Boynton as Proust Barbie, Rob Brydon as Sugar Daddy Ken, Tom Stourton as Earring Magic Ken, Chris Taylor as Ken Emcee, and David Mumeni as Footrub Ken.

I wish I could list every person in the film because you take away one and the House of Barbie would fall completely.

BARBIE is a film that seems to be thrilling to audiences and a film that moms are taking their daughters to see (in my case granddaughter with both the kid’s grandma’s). Yes, it is colorful, entertaining and has everything one would want from Barbie but it also has something for the adults with its ‘entendre that seems double’.

The story is a smash through the road/sky/sea etc. from Barbieland to the real world. The moment they show up, even the people in Venice can’t wrap their heads around neo clothes and skates. Watching Barbie learn that the world isn’t everything she thought it was can be a tough watch but seeing Ken take on the patriarchy through a cowboy hat and beer is also a tougher watch, especially when he makes his big confession.

Okay, let’s get on with it here, BARBIE isn’t meant to be taken as seriously as it seems some people are taking it. Yes, it’s a film about a doll, about her unreal world, the real world (which didn’t seem all that real either), Barbies versus Kens with song and dance in between is pure fun. I watched an eight-year-old have the time of her life with laughter, awwwww’s, and self-righteous indignation and the smarts to know that adults need to chill out. She even wanted her picture taken with the small set up the local theatre had in place when normally she would walk by such things. Telling her parents how much fun it was showed that perhaps adults could learn a lesson about it all.

So, gather up the gang and don’t let the name of the film fool you because BARBIE has a story to tell and it wouldn’t hurt us to listen!

In the end – she’s everything and he’s just Ken!



She is the Iconic GOLDA

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Guy Nattiv, writer Nicholas Martin, ShivHans Pictures and Bleecker Street comes the story of strength, courage and moments of pain when you are GOLDA.

Golda Meir (Helen Mirren) is the Prime Minister of Israel in the 1970’s and the country is still vying for recognition. It is when she is informed that the enemies in Egypt and Syria are coming that she leans on her military for guidance and planning. Israeli Defense Force leader Dado Elazar (Lior Ashkenazi) and the head of Mossad Moshe Dayan (Rami Heuberger) give Golda their plans. So begins the Yom Kippur War.

Watching over Golda is Lou Kaddar (Camille Cottin) who sees to her personal and medical needs knowing the struggle she is going through. Another ally is Henry Kissinger (Liev Schrieber) who wants to help Golda but also has an obligation to the United States, especially as Nixon is on the ropes for Watergate.

Golda struggles with the staggering human life consequences and keeps notes of the toll is it taking on the country. Even her trusted military staff have their moments of struggle with the anxiety of what Egypt is capable of.

Although grandmotherly in her concern for staff who have sons, brother, husbands and other family members fighting, Golda cannot let herself steer from the larger picture. She makes decisions for all of Israel and some of them are extremely painful. Being a leader comes with heavy baggage as she also fights her own personal battle.

Yet, she stands, each and every day, with what must be done to make it clear that Israel will not fall, never.

Mirren as Golda has certainly played her fair share of historical figures from Queen Elizabeth in both THE QUEEN and THE AUDIENCE, to Catherine the Great in the film by the same name. I have been in awe of Mirren since I first saw her in 1981 as Morgana in EXCALIBUR. She has been in several of my favorite films such as 2014’s THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY and THE 2015 WOMAN IN GOLD. Her body of work has such range and always unexpected and as Golda, she has once again proven (as if she needs to) that she can do any role.

Cottin as Kaddar plays such an unsung heroine role as the woman who understands Golda and stays with her every grueling step. She understands the amazing importance of Golda being the Prime Minister but, more importantly, what she can accomplish. Ashkenazi and Heuberger also understand that her presence for the people of Israel is crucial and their roles are equally as important in telling this story.

Schreiber as Kissinger gives us a man who wants to do more for Israel and realizes the importance of doing so. The problem is he is also Secretary of State for the United States and that country is dealing with President Nixon and Watergate. Even having a bowl of borscht, Schreiber’s Kissinger knows Golda is going to do what Golda is going to do.

Other cast include Ohad Knoller as Ariel Sharon, Dominic Mafham as Haim Bar-Lev, Ellie Piercy as Shir Shapiro, Ed Stoppard as Benny Peled, Rotem Keinan as Zvi Zamir, Dvir Benedek as Eli Zeira, and Emma Davies as Miss Epstein.

Bleecker Street is a New York City film company that has brought outstanding films to the public. Their library includes TRUMBO, DENIAL, THE LOST CITY OF Z, BEIRUT, HOTEL MUMBAI, ORDINARY LOVE and THE ROADS NOT TAKEN. For more information on the titles from Bleeker Street please visit www.bleeckerstreetmedia.com.

GOLDA has its world premiere at the 2023 Berlin International Film Festival.

The pain in many scenes is clear on Mirren’s character’s face and it comes straight through the screen. It was not necessary to show death because the sounds coming from the short-wave radio that Golda and military staff hear are heartbreaking. Continual decision-making military plans are done sitting in Golda’s home where cake and cigarettes are served in large supply and it adds to the authenticity of the story director Nattiv and writer Nicholas Martin are trying to convey.

It is easy to sell this off as a bio-pic, which it is, but GOLDA is so much more than that. It is a story of a woman in an impossible situation making life and death decisions while she, herself, is in a life and death situation. Puffing away on her cigarettes continually, I imagine it was the only way that Golda could maintain calm and thought.

Mirren gives Golda everything from the pinned up greyish hair to the iconic shoes and purse. Quite honestly, if you didn’t know it was Mirren then you wouldn’t know it was Mirren. The makeup is so well done and moves with ease as she speaks and the cankle legs are realistically familiar, just like grandmas.

The filming is beautifully done and being a period piece, it is filled with everything would expect of the time period. I remember being a kid in 1973 and the Yom Kippur War being mentioned on the nightly news. I even remember seeing the face of Golda Meir on the screen and thinking she looked like my great-grandmother Emma. The equipment is a reminder of the time as well as the telephone, typewriters, televisions etc. That adds such richness to the film and the story.

In the end – one woman stood between victory and defeat!

 The Return of OLDBOY to Theatres

Jeri Jacquin

Celebrating its 20th Anniversary from director Park Chan-Wook and Neon is the restored and remastered in stunning 4K masterpiece film of OLDBOY.

Oh Dae-Su (Choi Min-sik) has been held prisoner for fifteen years and his days are spent trying to understand why. He is not being held in a cell but in a room with a bed, shower, ability to write and even watch the world go by on television. It may have been a sealed hotel room but a prison is a prison when you can’t walk out the door. 

During this time, Oh Dai-Su decided that it was time to free himself after realizing that whoever is holding him will not allow suicide. He then decides to use his time shadowboxing and it makes him stronger. At the same time, he finds a way out of his prison after years of preparation.

Once out in the world, he meets Mi-do (Kang Hye-jung), a sushi chef that helps when he passes out in a restauraunt. When he finally feels more ‘human’, he begins to realize that he may be physically free, but mentally the question of who is responsible for his imprisonment hits hard. The person responsible for his captivity, continues to make his presence known and Dae-su thinks Mi-do could be part of it all.

He turns to buddy Joo-hwan (Ji Dae-han) while Mi-do finds out what happened to Dae-su’s young daughter after being set up for his wife’s death. Every step leads him to Lee Woo-jin (Yoo Ji-tae), a wealthy man that seems to know Dae-su very well and challenges him to discover the reason for his imprisonment.

What Oh Dae-Su discovers with each step is horrifying as he moves closer and closer to the truth of who is responsible and why he lost fifteen years of his life. 

Min-sik as Dae-Su is nothing short of perfection in this role. As a man who struggles with captivity (as would any sane human being), this character goes from complete madness to the focus of survival. Once freed, if you can call it that, the mental prison still exists as Min-sik takes us on his portrayal of a man seeking answers and once he gets them, well, it’s a conversation for sure. I adore Min-sik in this role and having the film re-released just reminded me why.

Hye-jung as Mi-do is drawn to Dae-Su and truly wants to help him find answers. Putting herself in dangerous situations, it is clear that she has her own struggles to deal with. She is naïve but equally as invested in discovering who is haunting her new friend. With ever step that they uncover information, Hye-jung’s character maintains her undeniable care and concern for Dae-Su.

Dae-han as Joo-hwan tries to help his friend of many years look through the world of the internet and chat rooms for answers and connection. Dae-han is crafty and makes his role look easy.

Ji-tae as Woo-jin is deceitful and has the presence making him feel invincible and untouchable. He has a reason for everything he does as Ji-tae brings his character out in the open with no fear and plenty of story to tell. This actor has a presence that brings such intensity that it’s kind of freaky.

Other cast include Oh Tae-kyung as young Dae-su, Yoo Yeon-seok as young Woo-jin, Woo Il-han as young Joo-hwan, Kim Byeong-ok as Mr. Han, Yoo Jin-seo as Lee Soo-ah, and Oh Dal-su as Mr. Park Cheol-woong.

Neon is a film production company that is best known for such films as I, TONYA and one of the most incredible Oscar winning film PARASITE. With a total of 12 Academy Award nominations, Neon appeals to audiences that are looking for in-your-face storytelling. For more information, please visit www.neonrated.com.

OLDBOY was released in 2003 as the remastering of the original film just breathes new life into a fantastic story. I can easily see why directors that saw the film when it was first released, realized where storytelling and filmmaking could go. The uniqueness, the characters and flow of it all is truly a work of cinematic art.

Min-sik gives a stellar performance of Dae-su’s struggle to understanding his captivity, survive his captivity both physically and mentally and struggle to come back into the world to find out why it happened in the first place. The twists and turns this character goes through gives the viewer and experience like no other. He is strong and he will fight to his last breath.

Park Chan-Wook is also responsible for two other films as producer that are high on my list with the 2009 film THIRST and 2016’s THE HANDMAIDEN. His ability to tell this particular story is done with such in-your-face intensity that the fight scenes brought a mixture of jaw-drop and a few moments of uncomfortable giggle. That is because I expect a lot from the character of Dae-su but man oh man I got more than I bargained for.

Personally, I was thrilled when I heard that the film would be released in theatres because it is another opportunity for everyone to see the original. Imitations are fine I guess but the original source material can not be remade, reimagined or repeated as far as I’m concerned. OLDBOY is iconic in itself and should remain so.

In the end – laugh and the world laughs with you, weep and you weep alone!



​THE GOOD MOTHER

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Miles Joris-Peyrafitte and Vertical is the story of a family struggling and one woman trying to be THE GOOD MOTHER.

Marissa Bennings (Hilary Swank) works for the local paper but wants more. The problem is she is not treating herself well and it shows. During a morning meeting, son Toby (Jack Reynor), a police officer, tells Marissa that older son Michael (Madison Harrison) has been killed. At the funeral, Marissa recognizes the young Paige (Olivia Cooke) tells the grieving mother she is pregnant.

Trying to reconcile anger and grief, Marissa tries to be at least mildly pleasant with the young girl. They both want to find out what happened to Michael and begin sleuthing. It was clear that it has something to do with drugs as Marissa confronts Paige again about their problems in the past. Toby does his own police work promising the two women he will find the killer.

Paige and Marissa find a witness who says he saw something and that leads both women further down the dangerous rabbit hole. When tragedy strikes again, Marissa decides she is going to follow the breadcrumbs and what she discovers will change her life once again, forever.

Swank as Marissa is an angry, unsure, self-destructive yet extremely intelligent woman who needs to get it together. It doesn’t help that she has problems with a son and the death of loved one has kept her from being a part of life rather than destroying what little joy she could have. Swank goes all in and it is a rough role that, with her credentials, she makes look easy. The character of Marissa slowly realizes that the only way to put all the pain and harsh reality of her life in perspective is by writing about it, the one thing she is good at.

Reynor as Toby is a son who looks after his mother and all her problems. Being a police officer, he takes his duties seriously, almost as much as he does wanting to start his own family. Breaking the news to Marissa is difficult and helping her follow the trail brings about even more stress. Reynor is what would be termed ‘the good son’ out of two but Marissa isn’t any softer with him. He sees her destruction and just makes sure the explosions don’t leave too big a mess.

Cooke as Paige is a young woman devastated by the loss of her love. She tries to explain things to Marissa but doesn’t even know herself what happened. There are only bits and pieces but she knows enough to realize that someone is after her and the only place she can find protection is with Marissa. They come to a basic understanding as they both search for clues as to what happened to Michael. Cooke gives us the same brashness as Swank and the same stubbornness as well.

Other cast include Hopper Penn, Norm Lewis, Karen Aldridge, Dilone, Robert Loftus, Mikayla Schaefer, Laurent Rejto, and Cliff Ware.

Vertical Entertainment is a global independent distributor that offers a unique wealth of experience minus the studio costs. They have won a Film Independent Spirit Award for Best Actress for Molly Shannon’s role in OTHER PEOPLE and the film won a GLAAD Award for Outstanding Film Limited Release, Best International Film for Babak Anvari’s UNDER THE SHADOW, a BAFTA and three Independent British Independent Film Awards as well.

THE GOOD MOTHER takes a look at the struggles that people face when everything seems totally out of control. The character of Marissa feels things are ebbing uncontrollably away from her and the final straw is the death of her youngest son. The shut down mode prior to that was nothing compared to what she is more than capable of now.

She meets her match with Cooke’s character of Paige. That is because these two women are cut from the same cloth in that they have had their struggles, have hardened a lot, and will stop at nothing to find the answers to the death of Michael. At times they seem to work together and at times they seem still at odds with one another. The go-between of Toby promises to find his brothers’ killer but the twists are turns might be just a little much.

Keeping the film very focused on the mystery is absolutely meshed with twists, turns, misdirection and shocks. That is the beauty in films like THE GOOD MOTHER in that car chases, explosions, etc. etc., aren’t necessary to bring a mystery full circle. I enjoy getting a chance to find the clues for myself. The only slight downside is a bit of chop in the story here and there, but it’s not enough to turn me away at all.

In the end – life and death become a blurred line!


The Ocean Holds her ORCA

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Sahar Mosayebi and Blue Fox Entertainment comes the story of a woman living in a country that doesn’t see her with ORCA.

Elham (Taraneh Alidoosti) is a woman who has suffered terribly at the hands of her husband and has been beaten almost to death. While recovering, she only finds solace and peace swimming in the ocean. At home things are strained with her parents as Elham believes they don’t understand what she has been through.

The government agent in charge of the right and wrongs of the country regarding sports, Nazar Abadi (Mahtab Keramati) makes it clear that Elham will never be allowed to break any water records. She also takes every opportunity to find a reason to deny any requests she puts up for approval with the line of ‘in an Islamic country, women don’t swim’. 

Trying to find a place that allows her to train for any endurance swim she can be approved for, Elham finds a quiet beach community and friendship with a woman who runs the hotel. She is the one who tells Elham that the Orca is her spirit animal. 

That, is what will bring Elham into focus and strengthen her determination to do what they say can not be done. 

Alidoosti as Elham gives such a stunning performance. From the beginning of the film, we see a woman who has been beaten down all in the name of love. Finding her place, it is certainly not on land. Alidoosti brings us to a time where even women are not about to help other women but instead keep them hidden from head to toe. Inside those wraps are women who are trying to find themselves. 

Her performance enlightens us to a time and place to show the importance of women who can ask to work together but sometimes must take their own path against those who refuse to change. Along the way, people can see from Elham’s journey what is possible if you remind yourself of the humanity that is just a heartbeat away.

Cast also includes Armik Gharabian as Elham’s mother, Arash Aghabeik as Elham’s father, 

Blue Fox Entertainment is a global film distribution and sales company specializing in connecting filmmakers to audiences and buyers in the United States and around the world internationally. For more of what Blue Fox Entertainment has to offer please visit www.bluefoxentertainment.com.

The film is inspired by Iran’s “Woman, Life, Freedom” protest movement and based on a true story of the Iranian swimmer Elham-Sada Asghari who earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. 

ORCA is beautiful in the relationship that Elham has with water and it is relatable to those of us who feel the very same way. Finding liquid peace and comfort where she is told, and even severely hurt by men who refuse to let go of archaic ways, watching her glide through the water was stunning.

Director Mosayebi takes the time to let us all understand the trauma in the life of Elham from the beginning that could have easily kept her down. Instead, we see her take two steps forward and one steps back but the thing is, Elham is always moving forward. She states her case repeatedly and even with the one woman who should be on her side refusing (I’m assuming because she liked the power), Elham still pushed forward.

Having the love and support of her parents and new friends, the story of Elham’s journey to become recognized for her accomplishments cannot be stopped. See for yourself the trials and tribulations of a woman who saw her strength in an ORCA.

In the end – swim to what is possible!


The Life of STRAYS

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Josh Greenbaum, written by Dan Perrault and Universal Pictures is a dog’s world of STRAYS.

Reggie (voiced by Will Ferrell) is a small and loveable Border Terrier who lives with Doug (Will Forte). Not realizing he is being treated badly by Doug, Reggie sees their almost daily game of ‘find your way home’ as fun. That is until one day Doug goes way out of his way to play the game leaving Reggie in a world he doesn’t know.

That’s when Reggie meets Bug (voiced by Jamie Foxx), a Boston Terrier who may be small but has a huge, well, attitude and view of the world. He almost immediately takes Reggie under his paw to show him the life of being a stray. Reggie tries to explain he is not a stray and Reggie realizes the very sheltered life his new friend has lived. 

Bug introduces Reggie to his friends Maggie (Isla Fisher) is a lovely Australian Shepherd with a nose like no other and Hunter (Randall Park) a Great Dane who might be a therapy dog but needs a bit of therapy himself. When they all hear Reggie’s story, they group decides to return to Reggie’s home so that he can show Doug what he really thinks of him.

Along the way, they all experience some of the craziest things known to dog kind and their reaction is, well, howlingly perfect!

Ferrell as Terrier Reggie is adorable, accepting and just sees the world in a sweet way. That is until he realizes that perhaps his new friends are telling him the truth. He is torn between wanting to be accepted by Doug and seeing the world in a whole new light. Ferrell lends his voice giving Reggie such sweetness but even sweet will talk a dog only so far.

Foxx as Boston Terrier Bug may be small but he makes his presence larger than life. Not about to take anything from anyone, man nor beast, he makes his stray rules clear and lives by them completely. Bug is inappropriate and hilarious all at the same time and Foxx lends his voice in such a way that I certainly wouldn’t want to mess with him, well, most of the time anyway.

Fisher as Maggie is a gorgeous Australian Shepherd who is almost the mother figure of the bunch but knows what she is good at and that’s sniffing! She has a bit of the feels for one of the pack but isn’t quite sure how to handle it. Fisher gives us charming, loveable, protective and one-of-the-boys without giving up being one-of-the-girls!

Park as Hunter the Great Dane is just a hot mess of issues. Insecure about his failures and hiding behind what our family calls ‘the cone of shame’, Hunter has a bit of the feels for a member of the pack as well. He wants so badly to be as brave as the others and sometimes questions it all but man, I just love Parks voice as a big dog with a small voice.

Forte as Doug soon realizes that perhaps revenge against an ex-girlfriend has the huge potential of being the worst thing he could have done. That being said, he is a manipulating, lying, using bit of an a-hole who really deserves everything he gets from both human and beast. When a dog adores you, don’t abuse that or else, well, Doug knows what the what else is!

More cast include Josh Gad as Gus, Havey Guillen as Sh%*stain, Jack De Sanz as Munchkin,Phil Morris as Bubsy, David Herman as Underbite, Charity Cervantes as Jenna, Rob Riggle as Rolf, Brett Gelman as Willy, Jamie Demetriou as Chester, Sofia Vegara as Deliliah the Couch, Greta Lee as Bella, Jimmy Tatro as Finn, and Dennis Quaid as Dennis Quaid.

Universal Pictures brings amazing film to theatres and their home entertainment library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

STRAYS is a cute dog movie, yes, but it is not, I repeat, is not meant for children at all. Okay, now that that’s out of the way lets get down and dirty because that’s what STRAYS is. It is a raunchy, dirty, pushing the limits and then jumping off the cliff comedy about what the hounds may be thinking, saying and doing when humans aren’t paying attention. 

The jokes are good, the dogs are awesome, but man oh man be prepared to see things you never thought to see on the screen done by dogs. Is this raunchy humor, absolutely, did I laugh a lot, absofrakkenlootely. Mixed in with the laughter were moans, groans, ewwwwwww’s and every other human emotion regarding the things our four-legged furry friends might be thinking.

This is the kind of film that lets you know up front it isn’t about to play the cutsie game (even though there are cutsie moments) and its every dawg for themselves. No bones about it, when the big dog comes out, stand back because the poop is going to fly.

In the end – listen to their bark or face the bite! 




He is Dealing with RETRIBUTION

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Nimrod Antal, Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate comes one man’s fight for his family when facing RETRIBUTION.

Matt Turner (Liam Neeson) is a busy business man who has been spending more time on his phone than with his family. One morning, wife Heather (Embeth Davidtz) insists that Matt take kids Emily (Lilly Aspell) and Zach (Will Champion) to school. It is chaos to get in the car, especially when son Zach is having parental issues.

Once on the move, Matt tries to calm down a jittery client who wants to back out of a deal and let’s partner Anders (Matthew Modine) know all is well. In the meantime, a cell phone is going off in the car and no one seems to know whose it is. That’s when Matt discovers there is a bomb in his car and he is not allowed to get out without it exploding.

Being led around the city by a voice he doesn’t recognize, the kids are getting nervous about what is happening. Trying to get answers, two things are clear – the caller wants a lot of money and is not going to let Matt or the kids out of the car until he gets what he wants. In the meantime, the police are now on the alert but they don’t have the whole story.

Then again, neither does Matt.

Neeson as Matt is back to doing what he does best, one a mission to protect the ones he cares about. This time he is doing it from behind the wheel trying to solve who is responsible and why he and his family are chosen to be put in danger. Trying to explain himself seems to fall on deaf ears so Neeson takes care of it all by himself.

Aspell as Emily in sitting in the backseat learning what is happening and trying to remain calm. That’s pretty stellar for a young actress in the middle of chaos and explosions. Champion as Zach played his part but, once again, a smart mouthed teenager and that I can’t get behind. I get that his character is feeling misunderstood but I’d rather throw Zach out of the moving car and take my chances than listen to his garbage.

Modine as Anders is in business with Matt and they are working hard to make is a success. He also becomes caught up in whatever the mysterious caller is up too. Nice to see Mariner Modine on screen again even if in brief moments.

Other cast include Arian Moayed as Sylvain, Emily Kusche as Mila, Luca Markus as Kat, Bernahrd Pieck as Captain Dregger, Pils Groger as Luc Etienne and Noma Dumezweni as Angela Brickman.

Lionsgate is a global leader in motion picture production and distribution for theatres, television, home entertainment and more. Theatre franchises include THE HUNGER GAMES, and DIVERGENT along with JOHN WICK. Now, adding this film to its 16,000-motion picture and television titles you can see everything coming soon as well as available now at http://www.lionsgate.com.

Roadside Attractions has, since 2003, grossed over $300M and garnered nineteen Academy Award nominations. They have had critical and commercial hits such as MANCHESTER BY THE SEA, BEN IS BACK, BEATRIZ AT DINNER, HELLO MY NAME IS DORIS, WINTER’S BONE and THE COVER as well as so many others. For more information of what Roadside Attractions has to offer please visit www.roadsideattractions.com.

RETRIBUTION is an action ride of mystery until the very end. Neeson takes us on the slow ride through each stop bringing the clues closer and closer as the character of Matt is puzzled about why its all happening. With his kids in the car, it brings another level of intensity because, lets be honest, when it comes to our kids, we probably would make the same choices as Matt Turner.

Even though the situation is based on being in a car and only a cell phone call for dialogue, it is the tension and watching the character Matt Turner try to get one step ahead. It’s hard to think what to do next when stuff if exploding all around and the cops are chasing.

Those who are thrilled with Neeson films are not going to be disappointed. He has made himself into a late career action hero and most of us are on board with it. Director Antal has clearly made himself seen and heard in Hollywood being a part of one of my favorites from Apple TV+ series Servant and two episodes from the hit Netflix series Stranger Things. He has also been a part of the films VACANCY, ARMORED and PREDATORS.

So, stay in your seat at all times because standing up could get you killed.

In the end – just don’t stop!



THE LAST VOYAGE OF THE DEMETER

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres Friday from director Andre Ovredal and DreamWorks Pictures comes the frightening tale at sea with THE LAST VOYAGE OF THE DEMETER. 

Captain Eliot (Liam Cunningham) is preparing his ship the Demeter for its voyage from Romania to London, England. Looking for crew, he sends Wojchek (David Dastmalchian) out to fill vacancies. Hoping to be chosen is Clemens (Corey Hawkins) who is a physician and well-versed in on how to be part of a crew. The captain’s young grandson Toby (Woody Norman) is saved by Clemens and welcomed aboard the ship.

Loaded and ready to leave port, the ship and crew are excited about the trip to London. The problem is, shipmate Olgaren (Stefan Kapicic) sees something he can not explain but believes Clemens saw it as well on their night shift. Walking through the cargo hold, Clemens discovers a woman, Anna (Aisling Franciosi) covered in dirt.

The physician goes to work trying to save the women while all around the ship strange and horrendous incidents are occurring. Deckhands Abrams (Chris Walley), Larsen (Martin Furulund), Petrofsky (Nikolai Nikolaeff) and cook Joseph (Jon Jon Briones) begin to question who and what is responsible. 

What they discover is so heinous that their two-week journey is day and frightening night survival until they can discover how to stop what is determined to destroy them all!
Cunningham as Captain Eliot is a man who knows what is expected of him as a captain responsible for a crew. Having his grandson aboard as well means so much. Keeping a detailed log of the happenings becomes the only way to let the world know what is about to be released in London. I’ve always been a Cunningham fan so it was good to see him again on the big screen this time.

Franciosi as Anna is a total badass from dirt to sea. She knows what’s up and when the crew doesn’t believe her, she still wants to help all she can. Her story is one of a town’s betrayal and she is a fighter! Franciosi gives her character a calm presence in the midst of chaos when the men start losing it. I did wish that she had been more of a focus in the film because her story is totally fascinating and I would have been all on board for that!

Hawkins as Clemens is on his way back to London. Things didn’t work out in Romania and the Demeter is his ticket back. Doing double duty from deck crew to physician, he doesn’t think the world works as it should. I wasn’t moved by this character at all using his non-belief in anything makes him oblivious to the obvious, but thanks for the blood for Anna, right? 

I am ALL about the crew, starting with Dastmalchian as Wojchek. In the midst of the crazy, he is trying to keep the ship going straight and fast to its destination. He has his feelings on a few things but when it comes to keeping the ship going, that is his goal. Kapicic as Olgaren knows what’s up and how he will end up.

Walley as Abrams is not going without a serious fight, Furulund as Larsen gets his moment in the night mist, Nikolaeff as Petrofsky wants serious answers and is about to get them and Briones as ships cook Joseph who has a few theories of his own about what is happening on the ship.

Shout out to Javier Botet as the creature of Draucula, well done sir!

Other cast include Graham Turner as the Constable, Vladimir Cabak as the Harbor Master, Andy Murray as Deputy Fisher, Rudolf Danielewicz as the Old Romanian Wiseman, Christopher York as Fletcher and Noureddine Farihi as the One-Eyed Sailor.

THE LAST VOYAGE OF THE DEMETER is based on a chapter from the classic novel DRACULA by Bram Stokes. When I saw what was on the side of one of the crate boxes, a scene from the beautiful 1992 Bram Stokers DRACULA film came instantly to mind. 
Besides the first few minutes and the last few minutes of the film, the rest is totally aboard the ship. That in itself is awesome because there really is no where to go in the middle of the ocean. The only thing the crew can do is fight which is what brings the tension, thrills and jumps to the film.

There are a few moments of ridiculousness meaning it is hard for me to believe that the ships crew was not more, shall we say, smart? Of course, that’s easy for me to say sitting comfy in a theatre seat cut commmmmmme oooooooooon! Yes, that’s what I was thinking. 
That doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the film, of course I did. There is nothing sweeter than being swept away in a story of a ship at sea doomed from the start, we just get to see how it plays out as a viewer. As an all-things Dracula person, this is a part of the story where we are not charmed by a very handsome Count but instead drawn in by a monster that has no intention of hiding what it really looks like.

Let it be known that children and animals are not given a free boarding pass for this trip Grab a friend and prepare for a sea cruise of a different kind.

In the end – the legend of Dracula is born!


They Are in Awe of JULES

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Marc Turtletaub and Bleecker Street is the story of outer space and inner emotions all brought on by JULES.

Milton (Ben Kingsley) is a local elderly man who lives life on his own terms. Going to city council meetings to making sure his street and city name suggestions are heard, he spends his days in routine. Daughter Denise (Zoe Winters) stops by occasionally to see how Milton is up to. Also, neighbor Sandy (Harriet Sansom Harris) enjoys her moments with Milton although he seems oblivious.

One fine day, Milton’s routine is interrupted by the crash landing of a space ship in his beloved garden. He is surprised finding a small alien who is hurt and makes himself comfortable on the porch and then inside Milton’s house. Deciding to try and help, Milton discovers that his unofficial roommate likes apples. He tries to tell daughter Denise about it all but she is convinced that her father’s medical issues are more severe than she thought.

Sandy gets wind of his story about an alien in his garden and stops by to discover for herself and she is instantly smitten. So much so that it is given the name Jules. Milton and Sandy decide it is best to keep Jules a secret or, according to Sandy, those in power will do horrible things to Jules.

Wondering what is happening at Milton’s house is nosy neighbor Joyce (Jane Curtin) who also catches on and decides it is better to stay quiet. Their job now is to help Jules fix the broken spacecraft so that he can get away but Jules needs something quite unique to make that happen.

But time is not on their side as eyes and ears are looking for Jules!

Kingsley as Milton is stunning beyond measure. Portraying a widower who passes his time mainly alone, it is clear there is something more happening. With the arrival of Jules, he is intrigued by the greenish/blue friend and sees quite clearly the need to help him get away as soon as possible. That being said, Kingsley’s portrayal is also that of a man who discovers that past issues are still present in his life and friendships are important. Milton is a lovely man at heart and Kingsley makes it happen.

Harris as Sandy clearly cares for Milton and becomes concerned when she hears about what happened at his home. The connection she makes with Jules is that of a woman who has a lot on her mind and no one to share it with. Naming Jules is her way of making a beautiful connection and, importantly, someone to cook for again. Harris is so charming from start to finish.

Curtin as Joyce is the female version of Milton with her open opinion on any matter in front of her with the added uncaring of what anyone else thinks. She also finds herself drawn to Jules (who she calls Gary) and opens up about what is happening in her life. When the time comes for them to part, Curtin’s Joyce shows a side that no one else has been privy too. These three actors combined make one heck of an elderly person!

Jade Quon plays the very quiet character of Jules. Even though Jules doesn’t have a lot to say, shim (she-him) is an amazing listener and has eyes full of compassion. As the days pass, the connection with Milton, Sandy and Joyce becomes moving enough that even Jules cannot help but feel the pull of humanness.

Other cast include Anna George as Dr. North, Donald Paul as Agent Mann, Blair Baker as Diane Strauss, Eric T. Miller as Tim, Teddy Canez as Mayor Martinez and Cody Kostro as Danny.

Bleecker Street is a New York City film company that has brought outstanding films to the public. Their library includes TRUMBO, DENIAL, THE LOST CITY OF Z, BEIRUT, HOTEL MUMBAI, ORDINARY LOVE and THE ROADS NOT TAKEN. For more information on the titles from Bleeker Street please visit www.bleeckerstreetmedia.com.

JULES is such a love story on so many levels. Starting with Milton who is dealing with being a widow, a daughter that can be a tad over protective and a strained relationship with his son, this character finds solace in himself so as to not have to cater to an emotional life. Jules not only shakes the ground of his garden but the foundation of Milton’s life. There is something pretty cool about that happening because what Milton thought was a life inevitable turns into a life of surprising change.

Harris and Curtin offer up their opinions on Jules and are amazing side-kicks for Milton. Seeing Kingsley with these two fine actresses opposite and alien could have been awkwardly done but Turtletaub directs with a big heart and very gentle hands. Of course, this is a story about being people of a certain age and it seems Jules was okay with that, but it is also a story of connection and a life-history that the three humans share.

Jules shimself is sweet, attentive and, yes, slightly alien-ish but in a way that is protective and caring. I refuse to give anything away regarding this awesome alien but know that I wouldn’t mind a crash landing in my garden. Let’s just say I was charmed beyond belief and absolutely adored the ending that almost made me cry and THAT, my friends, is hard to do!

In the end – you won’t believe what just crashed into Milton’s azaleas!


They are Part of THE MIRACLE CLUB

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Thaddeus O’Sullivan and Sony Picture Classics comes the story of faith, friendship and THE MIRACLE CLUB.

Ballyfermot, Ireland in the 1960’s is where Eileen Dunne (Kathy Bates), Lily Fox (Maggie Smith) and Dolly (Agnes O’Casey) prepare to perform trying to win church tickets to go to Lourdes in France. Dolly wants to take her young son to the healing waters in hopes that he will start talking and Eileen discovers she has her own reasons to go. 

Also in town is Chrissie (Laura Linney), who is has not been back to Dublin since she was a young woman. Now, she is home to take care of funeral arrangements for her mother. There is a past between Eileen and Lily that keeps them at arm’s length from Chrissie. The husbands Mr. Fox (Naill Buggy), Mr. Dunne (Stephen Rea) and Dolly’s husband (Mark McKenna) aren’t happy that the women are boarding the bus to Lourdes either, but the wives aren’t giving them a choice.

All aboard, Friar Dermot Byrne (Mark O’Halloran) knows there is tension between the women but his hope is that they can find it within themselves to talk it out. There is a lot of snide looks and side eye and no one seems willing to budge.

As they visit the holy site in Lourdes, they begin to try and talk to one another. The past with Lily has to do with her son and Chrissie when they were younger and the events are quite sad for them both. The issue with Eileen and Chrissie also has to do with when they were young and hurt feelings that were never resolved.

The only one that seems to enjoy Chrissie’s company is Dolly and her young son who is waiting to be dipped in the waters of Lourdes. As their stories come to the surface, it is either the sacred waters or the women themselves that learn about true healing.

Bates as Eileen leads off this cheeky band of women who are not shy about saying what they thing or how they feel. Going to Lourdes is a dream for Eileen and she makes no bones that nothing is going to stop her, not even Mr. Dunne. Threats and all, she boards the bus hoping for more than she’s telling her friends. I just adore Bates in everything she does and has done, this is a fantastic role for her.

Smith as Lily has been living with sorrow and illness of her own. The trip to Lourdes has so many possibilities and Lily is open to them all. Smith is just lovely in this role because she has the wonderful skill of drawing us into her world. I’ve watched almost everything she has ever done as she continues to be a part of story telling on the big screen and small.

Linney as Chrissie comes back to the place she ran from so many years ago. Taking care of her mother’s passing, there is no way that her connection to Eileen and Lily can be ignored. Taking the bus to Lourdes, she sort of forces the women to talk out what ever has been on their hearts for so long. Linney is a strong force among strong women and she does have her own story to share.

O’Casey as Dolly just wants to take her son to the waters of Lourdes in hopes he will speak. She strikes up a friendship with Chrissie and doesn’t feel as the other women do. O’Casey gives us the performance of a mother willing to do anything to make her son’s life easier and truly believes that Lourdes is the answer.

Buggy and Rea are husbands who can not grasp why their wives would believe in Lourdes. Mainly they are upset because of the raging question of ‘who is going to take care of me?’ is forefront in their minds. They are about to both learn a valuable lesson. McKenna is about to learn what it is like to take care of a toddler!

Shout out to O’Halloran as Friar Byrne for portraying a man of the cloth who hears more than he ever wanted to and still believes in the power of faith.

Other cast include Lesley Conroy as Sister Alice, Hazel Doupe as Cathy, Shauna Higgins as Ruth, Fionnuala Murphy as Mrs. Connolly, Eric Smith as Daniel Hennessy, Luke Smith as Patrick Dunne. 

Sony Pictures Classics brings television, digital content, new entertainment services, independent films and technologies to viewers. Such films as GREED, THE BURNT ORANGE HERESY, THE CLIMB, CHARM CITY KINGS, I CARRY YOU WITH ME and THE FATHER are just a few of the current and upcoming releases. For more information on what Sony Pictures Classics has to offer please visit www.sonyclassics.com.  

I saw the black and white 1943 film SONG OF BERNADETTE which tells the story of a young girl who sees ‘a beautiful lady’ and discovers the waters of Lourdes. It is one of my favorite films directed by Henry King and Jennifer Jones playing the young Bernadette. When I read the premise of this film, I knew I had to see it.

THE MIRACLE CLUB is a charming film dealing with women who are looking for healing on so many levels. The trip to Lourdes is something each one dreams of for their own personal reasons and when they arrive, it is nothing short of jaw dropping for them.

Although the story is centered around Lourdes, it is each of these actresses that brings the story so much more heart and so much more faith. Each character has a sadness that they themselves must come to terms with and it is their history that has never kept them very far apart from one another.

In the end – healing is in the eye of the beholder!




WHAT COMES AROUND

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Amy Redford and IFC Films is the story of past mistakes and present pain because of WHAT COMES AROUND.

Anna (Grace Van Dien) is a young girl who has found long distant love on the internet with Eric (Kyle Gallner). Keeping their relationship quiet has made it all seem too romantic and forbidden. Not even mom Beth (Summer Phoenix) and fiancé Tim (Jesse Garcia) suspect that Anna is in love. On her 17th birthday, Anna is shocked to know that Eric is at her front door.

Bringing her a gift, Anna makes it clear that she is uncomfortable with what he has done. Yet, she enjoys spending time being with him in person. That’s when she decides to bring it all out in the open and introduces Beth to Eric. The response is that of shock for both mom and Tim but for totally different reasons.

When Beth wants Eric out of the house, Anna comes to his defense and Tim tries to keep calm with the situation. Trying to make her daughter understand, it becomes clear that the more Beth tries to stop it, the more Anna is going to make poor decisions. Even friends Brit (Reina Hardesty) and Ashley (Sierra Nicole Rose) try to tell her that the age difference is going to be a problem.

While showing a house, Eric shows up and confronts Beth about the past and now it becomes clear why she has such an aversion to Anna’s relationship. It is time for the truth to come out totally and, even as it does, each person in this situation cannot avoid the pain.

Van Dien as Anna is a young girl who is at that point in her life where she thinks she knows better than any adult in her life. Keeping her relationship with Eric a secret proves that she knows but is enjoying the feelings that come along with the budding ‘romance’. Van Dien plays the role impeccably because this is everything I would expect from a teenager. Even when the truth comes out, she does what teenagers do – whatever they damn well please. In that sense, Van Dien has captured the role perfectly!

Gallner as Eric proves to be that person mothers are scared of for their daughters. That being said, there is a little more to the story. Gallner portrays Eric as a young man who knows the problem he is causing but, like Anna, seems to know better than the adults around him. Once he arrives at Anna’s door, he can not seem to stay away no matter what. Gallner portrays Eric with a duality that comes from the well written character.

Phoenix as Beth is a woman who has finally found happiness in her life and work. Thrilled to be getting married, those emotions come to a screeching halt when Eric arrives. Trying to keep her daughter safe, it only comes off as being a controlling mother who couldn’t possibly understand how she feels in Anna’s eyes. Phoenix brings her part of the story in a way that is unexpected and intriguing, well done.

Garcia as Tim is a police officer that suspects something is wrong with the situation. Not that he agrees with what Anna is doing in the least but his cop senses tell him that there is more. He has an investment in this family that will become his and he wants to keep both Beth and Anna safe.

Other cast include Indiana Affleck as Denny, Gabriel Eckert as Leo with Paul Tew and Chase Voelker.

IFC Films is a leading distributor of quality talent-driven independent films. Some of the company’s successes include BOYHOOD, FRANCES HA, MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING, Y TU MAMA TAMBIEN, TOUCHING THE VOID, CHE, TINY FURNITURE and CARLOS. For more information on films from IFC please visit www.ifcfilms.com.

Director Redford has obviously learned so much from her famous father Robert Redford. There is a story here that is a mixture of family, friendships, teenage angst and secrets and Redford makes sure that they are all addressed in equal measure.

WHAT COMES AROUND addresses one of the most frightening things as a parent is the relationships happening on the internet. Impressionable young teens looking for love, acceptance, acknowledgement etc. can succumb to the attention of the wrong person. That is what happens to Anna in the sense that she is being placed in a situation where she does not have full knowledge of the facts.

The twists and turns of the story bring the film close to being a thriller but instead, lands in the middle of a warning shot across the parental bow and secrets that can wreak havoc on everyone. The cast does an amazing job at bringing both of those concepts to the film. Keeping the cast to a minimum provides the air of tension and that is the attention grabber. Bonus, the title is perfect!

In the end – look outside!


Disney Revisits HAUNTED MANSION

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Justin Simien and Walt Disney Studios is the story of the iconic HAUNTED MANSION.

Ben (LaKeith Stanfield) is a paranormal tour guide who doesn’t believe in the paranormal which makes his job more difficult. He does it as a way to deal with the grief and loss of his wife Alyssa. Meanwhile, Gabbie (Rosario Dawson) and young son Travis (Chase W. Dillon) are dealing with their own new beginning moving into a mansion that needs a lot of work.

Immediately it becomes clear that the house is haunted keeping Gabbie and Travis on their toes and looking for help. Father Kent (Owen Wilson) tracks down Ben to ask him to come to the mansion and photograph what is happening using a special lens he invented. At first Ben has no motivation to go but money has a strange way of changing a mind. 

Arriving at the mansion, Ben goes along to get along and it isn’t until he gets back to his own home that something has decided to move in too! Ben and Father Kent seek out Professor Bruce Davis (Danny DeVito), a historian who knows a bit about the house and its history. Deciding that the only way to find out what the house and its eerie occupants wants is to bring Harriet (Tiffany Haddish), a psychic in for a séance.  

Hidden in the attic is Madame Leota (Jamie Lee Curtis) who, with the help of Harriet, decide its time to take on the specter that has been collecting spirits. Getting an object that belonged to the the very angry ghost Crump (voiced by Jared Leto), Ben and Father Kent track down something that will could change the game in their favor. 

But they are running out of time as the Hatbox Ghost has made his plans very clear and it doesn’t look good for the living!

Stanfield as Ben is a man dealing with grief issues. Taking the job of photographing what is inside the mansion gives him a paycheck and that’s all he is interested in. Unfortunately, the ghosts have other plans and Ben finds himself unraveling a mystery. Stanfield is a solid, if not slightly shaken, character who begins to believe in what is happening and all in to fix it.

Wilson as Father Kent seeks out Ben for a little spiritual guidance and boy is the priest going to need it. He believes without a doubt that things are twisted and crazy in the mansion and doesn’t mind finding the right people to deal with it. Wilson is hilarious but then again, I’d expect nothing less. DeVito as Professor Davis is all in wanting to be part of every step of the investigation. Always curious about the mansion, now is his shot and DeVito makes sure his character gets it.

Dawson as Gabbie doesn’t seem to affected by the ghosts, almost accepting them even though they are making her a tad uneasy. Gabbie’s fright level never seems to get to hyped up so that makes her the sane one out of the bunch. Dillion as Travis is not happy with their current living situation and welcomes all the adults into the madness. Each has a part to play and so does young Dillion although his part takes its time.

Big shout out to Curtis as Madade Leota because no one else could have given off the right amount of crazy inside a crystal ball. The last few years has shown that Curtis just plays the roles that look like fun to do and it shows through her characters. 

Other cast include Charity Jordan as Alyssa, Hasan Minhaj as the police sketch artist, J.R. Adduci as William Gracey, Creek Wilson as the Mariner Ghost, Ben Bladon as Hatchet Chost, Lindsay Lamb as The Bride ghost, Fedor Steer as Ezra, Dany Levy as Vic and Winona Ryder as tour guide Pat. 

Walt Disney Studios continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO and SLEEPING BEAUTY to name a few is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is currently available visit www.movies.disney.com.

HAUNTED MANSION is proving to be a fun family film and for anyone that remembers the ride as far back as I do, felt more like what I would expect. Although the ‘living’ characters are interesting, for me it was the not-so-living characters that I absolutely love. The ghosts are funny, devious, giggle worthy and intent on making us all jump in the theatre seats.

Director Simien captured the joy of the Haunted Mansion ride and put it on screen with fun, mystery, adventure, a bit of chaos and charm. Three generations sat at the screening and we left talking about our favorite ghosts and that is how the movie going experience should be. 

It has been twenty years since the Eddie Murphy version with THE HAUNTED MANSION. The story has been revamped but what goes on in the house and the grounds of the mansion are still filled with specters and a story with bad guys wanting bad things. That being said, its fine for what it is but is it spooktacularly memorable? Not so much but that does not change the enjoyment of it so do just that – enjoy the ride!

In the end – home is where the haunt it!


MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: Dead Reckoning Part One

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writer/director Christopher McQuarrie and Paramount Pictures is the return of action, the IMF team and MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: Dead Reckoning Part One.

The Sevastopol submarine takes its voyage and on board is a new capability that would allow it to have stealth capabilities. When an accident happens to the sub, governments go into high gear. Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) receives a package and instructions (if he accepts) to find a key. Not given any information about it, he tracks down Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson) in the Namib desert.

That leads Ethan to deal with Eugene Kittridge (Henry Czerny) to learn of an artificial intelligence called the Entity. Now it is out of control finding its way into military systems and getting any information that it wants. All the countries with military powers race to try and save what they can knowing they can only get that control with the key which is in two parts. 

Ethan recruits Benji Dunn (Simon Pegg) and Luther Stickell (Ving Rhames) back into the fold. Believing they know who has half of the key, the trickery begins at the Abu Dhabi Airport. What they don’t count on is two things, one – Jasper Briggs (Shea Whigham) who, along with Degas (Greg Davis), is determined to capture Hunt. The second is slick pick pocket Grace (Hayley Atwell) who is just as quick at Hunt and grabs the key. 

Hunt is on the road again to the streets of Rome and after trying to retrieve the key from Grace, he must also deal with Alanna Mitsopolis (Vanessa Kirby) as she knows the all the information about the key and the deadly Paris (Pom Klementieff). There is a third party to the chase along with Alanna that Hunt remembers well, Gabriel (Esai Morales) sees himself as the dark angel and a mission far darker than Hunt can imagine.

Now on a train, everyone has gathered to get the key and kill anyone who tries to stop them. Hunt and Grace work together to bring down those who would put the two pieces together bringing more power to the Entity. 

The mission is far from over.

Cruise reprises his role as Ethan Hunt and he makes it seamless. The last MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: Fallout came into theatres in 2018 and five years later it feels as if no time has passed. As Hunt, Cruise gives us everything in the way of action, suspense, mystery, intrigue and more car chases than the law allows. If this is his last time in the role of Ethan Hunt, he certainly is making sure that we all enjoy the ride.

Atwell as Grace ran my nerves into the ground. Lucky I wasn’t Ethan Hunt because she wouldn’t have made it out of the airport. As good as Hunt is with his disguises is how good Grace is at pick pocketing. Given the choice of things, she joins in to retrieve the two pieces of the key and learns that being part of the IMF means living moment to moment. Atwell got her chance to be a part of the action and did it well.

Morales as Gabriel just gave me the skeevies and that is the point. You see Gabriel coming you might want to run the other way, but then again catching people seems to be a past time for him. There is a history between he and Hunt and it is about to get nasty. It is so good to see Morales in such a viciously delicious role. Czerny as Kittridge has always worked my last nerve and its good to see he doesn’t disappoint thing time either. Kittridge has his game to play and he doesn’t care who goes down to win.

Kirby as Mitsopolis is sly, dangerous and will play whatever side helps her win. The key holds power and she wants ever bit of it. Kirby is very cool and collected, even when things are a bit, shall we say, woozy. Klementieff as Paris is a psycho behind the wheel, she has a penchant for destruction and is extremely good at it. After playing the sweet and gentle role of Mantis, watching the chains come off as Paris is so much fun to watch.

Pegg as Dunn and Rhames as Stickell are the two men that Hunt can absolutely count on. This time around they seem a bit rusty but that doesn’t stop them from doing everything possible to find the keys. They totally understand what is at stake but, I have to admit, they do bring a bit of the comedy relief to the film. Nothing wrong with breaks in the tension and both of these actors did just that but hold on when they are serious!

Whigham) as Briggs is determined to be the one to capture Ethan Hunt and will go anywhere and do anything to get him. Davis as Degas goes along but wonders if maybe they are chasing the wrong man. Ferguson as Faust makes a return and understands that the mission is more complex than they all realize. 

Shout out to Elwes as Denlinger, his character is puffed up and thinks he is in control of things. Those are the guys I wouldn’t want to hang around with because the target is huge on their backs. He is always going to be one of my favorites on the screen.

Other cast include Frederick Schmidt as Zola, Charles Parnell as NRO, Mark Gatiss as NSA, Indira Varma as DIA, Rob Delaney as JSOC, and Mariela Garriga as Marie.

Paramount Pictures is the longest operating and remaining major studio in Hollywood that has been on the ground floor of every major development in film. From the advent of motion pictures to the emergence of television, through the digital revolution, Paramount Pictures has been there. During our 100-year history, we have served as the production site for thousands of notable movies and television shows. For more please visit www.paramountstudios.com.

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: Dead Reckoning Part One is going to be the hit of the summer. It seems Cruise is going for two for two as last summer the box office was filled with TOP GUN: Maverick. Being raised on the original television series of Mission Impossible, I’m think the films have done an excellent job of capturing the essence of that show. This time, it is an all-out feast of action for fans.

Every gadget imaginable, characters that are going to test every moment Hunt is on the mission. Thrills with cars, trains and everything in between are going to show how two hours and forty-three minutes can fly by! Cruise and the gang do not skimp on excitement to the point of feeling the tension from start to finish.

The story continues with Part Two and if Cruise is looking to take another summer on, then we are in for a summer treat in 2024. Get the gang together, get the biggest tub of popcorn you can because there isn’t a moment to be missed of MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: Dead Reckoning.

In the end – the mission is far from impossible!

​THE SUPER MARIO BROS MOVIE 
Brings Iconic Family Fun

Jeri Jacquin

In theatres today from directors Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic, Pierre Leduc, Nintendo, Illumination and Universal Pictures is the iconic THE SUPER MARIO BROS MOVIE.

Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) have started their own business in Brooklyn but everyone seems to think they aren’t capable of making a success of it. When Mario sees that the city water main is broken, he sees this as an opportunity of a lifetime!

Discovering a tunnel of tubes, Luigi looks inside and disappears and when Mario goes into the tube he is sucked in as well. They try to hang on but both go different ways. Mario lands in the Mushroom Kingdom and met by Toad (Keegan-Michael Key) and Luigi ends up in the Dark Lands.

Quickly captured and taken to their leader Bowser (Jack Black), he learns where Mario is and what Bowsers evil-love-laid plans are for Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy). In the meantime, Mario meets Princess Peach explaining that he needs to rescue his brother. She reluctantly agrees but also needs to save the Mushroom Kingdom from a Bowser takeover.

Knowing they need help; they go to King Cranky Kong (Fred Armisen) of the Jungle Kingdom. To get help, Mario must tackle Donkey Kong (Seth Rogen) and all too soon, Bowser arrives with his own army! Now, the battle to save the Mushroom Kingdom, as well as all the Kingdoms, and bringing brothers back together are intertwined and its on – well, you know, like Donkey Kong!

Pratt as Mario gets a chance to play one of the most iconic Nintendo characters and does so as only Pratt can. He takes us all away into the Mario character completely making it easy to forget whose voice you are hearing. Don’t worry, the voice change is all explained and then it’s off to the adventure and it certainly seems like Pratt had a good time because, well, everyone in the theatre certainly did.

Day as Luigi is the brother who goes along to get along and it is clear he loves being with his brother. A little more apprehensive and slightly less adventuresome than Mario, Day still gives us a character that would do anything for family. He is loveable and enjoyable which is how we have always seen him.

Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach is perfection. She is exactly what I believed she should sound like. She is strong, caring, compassionate and yet won’t hesitate to get in the middle of the action and show her stuff. Taylor-Joy gives us a powerful Princess Peach and the vocal performance is worth every moment the animated character is on screen.

Black as Bowser, I mean what can you say. He has always been known to take on different characters but as Bowser he is, oddly, strange, evil but with a soft spot of love that can be destroyed in a millisecond. Bowser made us laugh, shout and even ‘awwwwwwww’ for a few seconds mixed in with giggles. He is strong, he is loud and Black gave us a fantastic Bowser.

Rogen as Donkey Kong is absolutely fantastic. As a fan of that particular video game, he gave me everything in this vocal performance. I laughed, cheered, loved his comebacks and one liners (that will be added to our families film lines) and heart of friendship. Rogen gave all of that and I the next time I play Donkey Kong I’m going to hear him.

Key as Toad is fun, protective and has a heart full of courage. Wanting to be a part of protecting the Mushroom Kingdom, he just has no fear, not to mention how cute he is. Armisen as King Cranky Kong is a laid back but entertaining from start to finish. 

Shout out to Jelenic as the blue Lumalee for the existential view of the film’s situations that totally cracked me up and to the penguins for their bravery and charm.  

Other cast include Charles Martinet as Mario/Luigi’s father, Khary Payton as the Penguin King, Jessica DiCicco as the brothers Mom, John DiMaggio as Uncle Arthur, Eric Bauza as the Tod General, Juliet Jelenic as the blue Lumalee, Sebastian Maniscalco as Foreman Spike, Kevin Richardson as Kamek.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

Illumination, founded by Chris Meledandri in 2007, is one of the industry’s leading producers of event animated films. Bringing the DESPICABLE ME franchise, to include Minions, features some of the world’s most renowned talent. To read more please visit www.illumination.com.

THE SUPER MARIO BROS MOVIE is a film that everyone who loved/loves the Nintendo video games to see this weekend. Almost every iconic thing that is in the games has come to life and what would be expected. Illumination did not try to reinvent the wheel but instead is giving fans what they crave.

I absolutely love that nothing was out of place but instead brought to life in such a way that going on this ride is going to happen again and again. My family and I weren’t out of the film five minutes before my granddaughter, da Kid, asked excitedly, ‘can we go see it again right now?’ The answer is clearly going to be ‘yes!’ because, even at my age, want to see it again.

The film is colorful, vibrant and fun, with a storyline that clearly comes from the game (thank you writer Matthew Fogel, you have my heart!). The characters are iconic but also seeing the way they are brought to the screen is absolutely thrilling. 

On a personal note, what a joy it was for me to see this film with my daughter and granddaughter. Nintendo has been a part of our lives since the first little gray box sat on our television. When da Kid was about four or five I introduced her to video games (I know, a grandma doing that – whaaaaaaaaaat?), and I taught her how to play the original Mario Bros.

Now we play Mario Kart 8 on her Nintendo Switch – if that isn’t love through the generations, I don’t know what is. What am I getting to? Well, just this, get your generational family together and hit the theatres this Easter weekend. Enjoy watching icons come to life in a way that is endearing, fun, exciting so that when everyone walks out, the joy is still on all faces.

In the end – let’s-a gooooooo!

INSIDIOUS: The Red Door

Jeri Jacquin

In theatres from director Patrick Wilson and Sony Pictures is the return of the terror with INSIDIOUS: The Red Door.

It has been nine years since the Lambert’s household was dealing with the terror that struck their home and family. Neither Josh (Patrick Wilson) or his son Dalton (Ty Simpkins) remember what happened but that hasn’t stopped the trauma. Since then, Josh and Renai (Rose Byrne) are divorced and the death of his mother Lorraine has caused even more strain.

Josh’s relationship with Dalton just doesn’t seem to work but dad wants to take Dalton to college. Thinking it would be an opportunity for them to bond, father and son only end their trip with an argument. Dalton is an art major and in college he gets the chance to really create. He also meets a new friend, Chris (Sinclair Daniel) who is funny and has a way with people.

Once home, Josh decides to get help for what is happening to him, especially when a mysterious man seems to be haunting him. In the meantime, Dalton begins his art class and a dark and intense drawing starts to cause him to see things as well. Both father and son do not realize that they are experiencing the same thing.

Chris figures out what is happening to Dalton and shares her suspicions. She becomes involved more and more as her life is in danger as well. Once Renai explains to Josh what she knows about it all, it is time for Josh and Dalton to stop ‘the Further’ from becoming part of their lives again.

They must find a way to close the red door!

Wilson as Josh can not seem to figure out what is happening to him. The losses in his life have become part of the problem yet there is something nagging at him. There is something deep pushing him and it is running his life. So much so that he has little to do with a family he once held so dear. Wilson hasn’t skipped a beat portraying Josh and taking on the director’s role, he knows how the story needs to come together and it works really, really well.

Simpkins is back as the college bound Josh who, if he only really talked to his dad, would see that both are experiencing the same thing. When he realizes his art is telling him what is about to happen, it is also telling him about a past he has forgotten and a way to stop more pain from his family. It is great to see Simpkins come back so many years later to take the role once again and see where it could go. 

Daniel as Chris begins to see what her new friend is going through and wants to help. It is her curiosity that leads to a YouTube video explaining what Dalton is experiencing. Chris has a way about her and Daniel makes it look smooth as silk, even when she is caught in it herself. 

Byrne is back as Renai and she has her own story to tell. Hoping that the lid was put on the events nine years ago, there comes a point when the lid has to come off if she is to save both the man she truly cares about and her son. Byrne’s role is not a large but it is important to the story.

Other cast include Hiam Abbass as Profressor Armagan, Andrew Astor as Foster Lambert, Juliana Davies as Kali, Steve Coulter as Carl, Peter Dager as Nick, Justin Sturgis as Alec, Leigh Whannell as Specs, Angus Sampson as Tucker, Lin Shaye as Elise Rainier and Joseph Bishara as the Lipstick-Face Demon.

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment encompasses motion picture production for television, digital content and theater releases. The studios include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films and Sony Picture Classics. To see what is coming to theaters and to home entertainment please visit www.sonypictures.com.

INSIDIOUS: The Red Door takes one more look at what could happen when you keep secrets in the family. Wilson knew exactly what he was signing up for when deciding to direct as well as reprise his role as Josh. The equal amount of time to both Josh and Dalton’s journey is done very well.

I will admit that I jumped at least twice and hollered at least three times and that’s how I know this film is good. It is not filled with gore and such but instead it reaches into the part of us that loves tension and can’t wait to be scared. I spent more time with popcorn on the outer reaches of my mouth than actually made it in and when leaving the theatre, apologized to the attendants for the circle of popcorn that made it to the floor when I jumped!

If you are looking to revisit the Lambert family, see where they are now and how it will all turn out, then grab a bunch of scary film fans and make it a night to remember.

In the end – face your demons!


The Summer Comedy Starts the Season with 
NO HARD FEELINGS

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director writer/director Gene Stupnitsky and Sony Pictures to start the summer season is the comedy NO HARD FEELINGS.

Maddie (Jennifer Lawrence) lives in the family home in the beach community of Montauk. Inherited from her mother, she also inherited the property taxes that go along with it. Working as a bartender and Uber driving, Maddie is keeping her head just above the water line. That is until her car is repossessed and now, she is getting around via another set of wheels.

Hanging out with friends Sarah (Natalie Morales) and Jim (Scott MacArthur), they find a Craigs List posting from parents Allison (Laura Benanti) and Laird Becker (Matthew Broderick) offering up a car if someone can bring their college bound son Percy (Andrew Barth Feldman) out of his shell.

Meeting the parents, everyone is clear on what is expected of Maddie and she embraces the challenge. Dressing up for her new part, Maddie goes to visit Percy at the local animal shelter and she pours it on. Percy does not seem moved by all the candy she is throwing his way and Maddie’s ups her game.

Seeing each other again and again, Maddie and Percy begin to learn about each other but it doesn’t mean that Maddie has given up on getting the car. That being said, she does start to really see Percy and what an amazing young man he is. The problem is the one big secret she is keeping is the one big secret that could hurt them both in ways she couldn’t imagine.

Lawrence as Maddie brings the comic relief in jaw dropping and hysterical ways. She is the life of the film bringing slapstick and one-liners faster than a tourist eating a lobster roll. Maddie clearly hates the invasion of the rich into Montauk so agreeing to crack the shell of one for a car doesn’t seem like a stretch. Lawrence clearly took a role that tested her comedy chops and she made it look easy. 

Feldman as Percy is a young man who is either in his room or at the local animal shelter volunteering. His parents are worried because he just doesn’t seem to be enjoying life. Feldman gives his character so much range between quiet to entertaining with everything in between but deep within his portrayal is a young man with his own story to tell. 

Benanti as Allison is, I think, the reason that Percy is as Percy is. She has all the signs of a mother who says she wants her son to come out of his shell but does nothing to have made that happen. Broderick as Laird is the dad who really wants her son to experience the same fun he had growing up, maybe a little too much fun. It’s like Ferris Bueller grew up and can’t believe his son has no Bueller in him! Hilarious!

Morales and McArthur as friends Sarah and Jim try to keep Maddie out of trouble and made me laugh in the process of doing it. Morales gets a chance to show who is boss in the marriage and takes Maddie just as she is. McArthur is a husband who just needs to stay in the ocean (you’ll get it) but he is sweet in his own way. 

Other cast include Kyle Mooney as Jody, Jordan Mendoza as Crispin, Hasan Minhaj as Doug Kahn, Amalia Yoo as Natalie, Alysia Powell as Fern, Quincy Dunn-Baker as Travis and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Gary.

Sony Pictures encompasses motion picture production for television, digital content and theater releases. The studios include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films and Sony Picture Classics. To see what is coming to theaters and to home entertainment please visit www.sonypictures.com.

NO HARD FEELINGS breaks the ridiculously sad film cycle as of late. It brings laughs, jaw drops, hilarity and just a good time to theatre seats. That translates to starting off the summer season the best way possible. This is the film that brings groups together to experience it together and laugh all the way out the theatre door.

Lawrence brings her own brand to the film and there is a particular scene where I’m not sure if she’s an MMA fighter or a clothing aficionado but I do know I couldn’t stop laughing and neither could the audience. In the midst of it all, Lawrence gives her character a bit of heart and warmth which just adds to the likeability of her character. Feldman is trying to see the world through Maddie’s eyes and let me just say his interpretation almost caused me to shoot soda out my nose!

The premise is not all that new but then again there is no need to reinvent the rom-com wheel. Instead, this is just a fun time at the theatre with a film that doesn’t need to be dissected nor explained to the point of conspiracy theories. The only action and big explosions are the hilarious ones brought on by Lawrence and Feldman.

It is popcorn, friends, humor, fun and reminiscent of a time when all of that was important when going to the movies. 

In the end – pretty and awkward! 


He is THE BOOGEYMAN

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Rob Savage and 20th Century Studios based on a short story by the master of horror Stephen King is THE BOOGEYMAN.

The Harper family is dealing with sadness as teen Sadie (Sophie Thatcher) returns to school for the first time. Along with younger sister Sawyer (Vivien Lyra Blair), the family is trying to find the new normal. Dad Will (Chris Messina) is a therapist who sees patients in his office located in the family home but has trouble talking to his own children.

Unexpectedly, Will comes face to face with Lester Billings (David Dastmalchian) who begs the doctor for help needing someone to talk to. He also has experienced devastation in his family and thought Will could relate. Will begins to suspect that Lester has deeper issues than he can handle. When chaos breaks out in the Harper home once again, it starts a chain reaction of fright.

It is Sawyer who first begins to understand that something is in their house and that something has the ability to speak. Trying to convince Sadie and dad Will, they just don’t see what the little girl does. After a gathering of friends at the Harper home, Sadie does not need any more convincing that what Sawyer has experienced is absolutely true.

Now Sadie must do whatever she can do protect her little sister while trying to make Will understand that what is in their home is powerful and deadly.

Thatcher as Sadie is a young teen dealing with sadness and grief and can’t find it within her home or with her friends. Feeling uber protective over sister Sawyer, she listens to the young girl’s tale but it takes her own moment of fright to believe. Thatcher gives a strong performance of a young girl determined to fight for family, home and whatever it takes to survive.

Messina as dad Will is doing what father’s do when dealing with fear and grief, act a bit as if it all can be explained as a therapist would. It doesn’t work! His daughters are both trying to tell him that something is in their home and he doesn’t listen – until he does. Messina gives us the broken family man who is busy being afraid of that to see the real fear.

Blair as Sawyer is so darn relatable for every child around the age of her character. Night lights on, monster check of the closet, check under the bed and anyplace else a monster could hide. Sawyer is charming, and watching what she goes through is a bit horrifying and this little actress gives it everything and make it believable.

Shout out to Dastmalchian as Lester because that man has the ability to bring you into a strange and frightening world of all kinds. This isn’t the first time he’s freaked me out and if he looks a tad familiar, he portrayed Albert DeSalvo in the 2023 BOSTON STRANGLER, Bob Taylor in the 2013 film PRISONER and 2008 THE DARK KNIGHT. 

Also, shout out Marin Ireland as Rita Billings. She has an integral part to play in the backstory and the struggle is real, well done. 

Other cast include Madison Hu as Bethany, Maddie Nichols as Natalie, Leeann Ross as Cassidy, Rio Machadio as Anne, Shauna Rappold as Cara Harper, Cristala Carter as Detective Garland, LisaGay Hamilton as Dr. Weller.

20th Century Studios brings award-winning films for fans to enjoy and to see more of what the studio has coming to theatres please visit www.20thcenturystudios.com. There you can also discover favorite films and how to view them. 

THE BOOGEYMAN is pure Stephen King and I don’t think fans will be disappointed. What I love about King stories is that it isn’t so much about the blood and gore as it is the suspense and anticipation of being scared out of our minds that is awesome. Be honest, we love being thrilled to the point of holding popcorn in our hands and just as we go to eat it – dead stop! I saw that at the screening.

There were jumps, several deep inhales followed by the infamous ‘wft’ moments. The film delves into things that have always frightened children but this time, adults are being brought back to their childhood only to discover that those fears never truly went away. Its honest time, who still walks a little faster when shutting off a bedroom light to jump under the covers, yea, thought so. 

Did I jump? Absolutely, and I feel no shame in admitting it. My heart thump a few times, absofrakkenlootely! Once again, director Savage has taken moments all over the film to make sure we remember exactly who it is in the dark and the helplessness we can feel when the light is hard to keep on. I’m leaving out details of course because I want everyone to experience it without spoilers. 

THE BOOGEYMAN comes in at an hour and thirty-eight minutes which is more than needed to bring this story full circle. It is dark, intense, thrilling, and brings a twisted face to the one thing we all were afraid of at one time in our lives. This movie doesn’t reinvent the wheel but it makes damn sure we hear the creaking when it rides down into our nightmares. 

In the end – it’s not real, it’s not real, it’s not real!

They Make THE COVENANT

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from direction Guy Ritchie and STX Films comes the story of war, the men who fight it and THE COVENANT.

In Afghanistan, Sgt. John Kinley (Jake Gyllenhaal) is looking for the Taliban and needs an interpreter. He is assigned Ahmed (Dar Salim), who has his own personal reasons for wanting to be a part of the squad. Kinley is known to do things his way and quickly discovers that Ahmed is not afraid to throw himself in the middle of things.

Receiving intel that there is a ammunitions factory out in the desert, Kinley takes his team to investigate. They not only find the bombs but a shoot out ensues as he, along with Ahmed manages to escape, but briefly. The Taliban soldiers catch up to them and Kinley is hurt as Ahmed begins his journey to get him home avoiding the Taliban leaders order to capture them alive.

Rescued and in the hospital, Kinley learns that Ahmed and his family are in hiding. As an interpreter, Ahmed had applied for a Visa and without it, hiding is his only options. That doesn’t sit well with Kinley as he plans to return to Afghanistan and complete a mission to honor the covenant. 

Gyllenhaal as Kinley is the tough as nails, compassionate and determined Sgt. of a team that move in sync. Wanting to do more, he is sort of taken off the leash to find the Taliban. When it comes time to right a wrong, the same determination motivates him. Gyllenhaal gives the film a character that isn’t swayed by what others might call the impossible, instead it fuels his own personal mission. His performance is uniquely one note, and that note is no nonsense and intense. Gyllenhaal understands this role uniquely from his experience in the 2005 film JARHEAD. 

Salim as Ahmed is a man on his own mission as well. Protecting his family is his first priority and with the invaluable knowledge of his people and the Taliban, he is uniquely perfectly matched with Kinely’s intensity. Saving Kinley and avoiding the enemy takes Ahmed on his own personal journey. Salim brought me deep into the story and bought on that nervous feeling when a character is in danger. His performance matches the intensity of Gyllenhaal as these two actors are marvelous together. If Salim looks familiar, perhaps you might recognize him as one of Khal Drogo’s Bloodrider’s, Qotho, from GAME OF THRONES. 

Other cast include Antony Starr, Bobby Schofield, Emily Beecham, Jonny Lee Miller, Jason Wong, Sean Sagar, Sina Parvaneh, Cyrus Khodaveisi, Christian Ochoa, Rhys Yates, Fahim Fazli, Swen Temmel, Fariba Sheikhan, Reza Diako, Gary Stennette, Abbas Fasaei, and Alexander Ludwig.

STX Films and Entertainment is a global next-generation company who has taken on the mission to unlock the value of direct connection stars have with their fans through the development, production and distribution of film, television, VR, digital video, music and live entertainment content. It is the industry leader in transforming beyond traditional platform-driven content to creating talent-driven enterprises. To experience more please visit www.stxfilms.com.

THE COVENANT is the story of two men with the same goal, remove the enemy from where they are and get home to their loved ones. Easier for Kinely until he discovers Ahmed has become a wanted man. Gyllenhaal gives the performance of a man who will not take no for an answer when it comes to completing the agreement the U.S. has made with Ahmed. Salim gives his own performance of a man who understands the world he is interpreting and the danger that comes with what his is doing for the military.

During the Afghan/Iraq war, translators or interpreters were able to apply for visas. The process is long and I went to the government website to see for myself what steps a translator must take in order to get a visa. As much as it is outlined, I can not imagine how difficult it must have been/be to try to do it all in a war zone. Knowing this brings an even deeper respect for the role Salim played as Ahmed.

This is also a story of two men who are alike and although they are two men from two different worlds, there is an intense, non-spoken connection that makes them more alike than they realize. Neither Kinley or Ahmed has a lot to say but when they do, everyone needs to hear them. Director Ritchie captures the story written by 

Writers Ivan Atkinson, Marn Davies and Guy Ritchie have written a story based on the amalgamation of stories about Afghan translators and the soldiers they worked with. The US left thousands of interpreters behind who were waiting for special immigration visas when the government left Afghanistan in 2021. Their fate could quite possibly be that of Ahmed’s and worse.

In the end – two men, one war and a covenant!


He lives in DALILAND

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Mary Harron and Magnolia Pictures is the tale of one of the 20th century’s most acclaimed artists who lives in DALILAND.

Salvador Dali (Ben Kingsley) lives in a world all his own in the 1970’s. Along with wife Gala (Barbara Sukowa), he makes his art while Gala tries to keep their financial head above water. Coming to be a part of Dali’s world is the young James (Christopher Briney), who becomes his assistant while James also tries to break into the art world.

Attempting to help Dali create art and prepare for a new gallery show, James discovers that the world he wants to become part of is filled with pitfalls. Assisting Dali, he become aware that the artist is one way in public and another in private but both are disjointed and have history. 

Yet, James wants to protect Dali from anyone or anything that gets in the way of his being able to create more astounding art. When the relationship between Dali and Gala call into question loyalty, James begins to understand what he has become involved in.

Art is not always a beautiful thing.

Kingsley as Dali puts in every bit of his ability as a wonderful actor into this character. He shows us the intricate, complicated and traumatic relationship with wife Gala. She is his reason for basically living and Kingsley shows that from each up and down the film shows. It is clear that Dali was a complex man but also seething with insecurities, issues and the inability to see the inappropriateness in the treatment of those around him. 

Sukowa as Gala is a woman who, on the outside, seems quite removed from Dali’s antics. As the story digs deeper, there is so much more to her. Keeping Dali where he needs to be requires emotional acrobatics that Sukowa makes look effortless. Even when Gala has had just about enough, she is never loud, just sure of what needs to be done and how to make that happen.

Briney as Christopher is about to get a life lesson and crash course in dealing with people in general but mainly a maladjusted artist. In awe that Dali would make him an assistant, he quickly realizes that it is not all he thought it would be. Loving the art is one thing, loving the artist is another and loving when those two things clash is what Briney must reconcile. 

Other cast include Avital Lvova as young Gala, Rupert Graves as Captain Moore, Alexander Beyer as Christoffe, Andreja Pejic as Amanda Lear, Mark McKenna as Alex Cooper, Zachary Nachbar-Seckel as Jeff Fenhold, Joella Hinson-King as Donyale Luna, Merce Ribot as Rosa, Jack Shalloo as Demond Carter, Gavin Spokes as Gilbert Hamond and Suki Waterhouse as Ginesta.

Magnolia Pictures is responsible for such releases as SLAY THE DRAGON, JOHN LEWIS: Good Trouble, the crime thriller THE WHISTLERS, documentaries such as THE PIECES I AM and films such as the directorial debut of Italian filmmaker Filippo Meneghetti. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.magpictures.com.

The film had its world premiere in September of 2022 at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival. It has been nominated by The Golden Linden Aware for director Mary Harron at the Golden Linden International Film Festival.

DALILAND is an interesting and thoughtful look at the life of a man who clearly could not be left to his own devices, even his art was under watchful eyes. Dealing with a magazine rack full of issues, Kingsley navigates through them with the skill of a master painter – oh wait, he is! The emotional roller coaster had me dizzy which probably best describes Dali’s life.

The filming is actually quite wonderful as director Harron captures the constant free-falls of Dali’s life. As a film about art and an artist, the colors of the film are vibrant and sullen at the same time which is also characteristic of the lives in the film. What the story does is consistently leave the viewer guessing as to what is going to happen next. 

The ending is absolutely jaw droppingly sad yet, there is a space in the brain that says there was no place else the story of Salvador Dali could go. 

In the end – he is Dali!

Running to KANDAHAR

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Ric Roman Waugh and Open Road Films is the story of two men who are running to KANDAHAR.

Tom Harris (Gerard Butler) is a slick CIA operative in Afghanistan that has just finished a dangerous job destroying a nuclear site. Now the focus is on returning home for his teen daughter Ida’s graduation. Operative Roman Chalmers (Travis Fimmel) brings him in at the last minute for a mission that will not wait. Going into Iran to finish taking down is going to be the most dangerous thing Harris has done.

Meeting up with interpreter Mohammed ‘Mo’ (Navid Negahban) has been brought in to help and that’s all. Also, Mo knows the area having been born and raised in Kabul and can get anything Harris needs. But the Afghani also has his own personal reasons to be in this situation. When a journalist is kidnapped and information on who is responsible for the nuclear plant destruction, all hell breaks loose.

The first on it is an angry Afghan leader Kahil (Ali Fazal) wants one thing, to prove himself a powerful leader. Now he has his mission, to get Harris and bring him to those who will reward him. With informants everywhere, Harris and Mo make a run for it and the only place they can go is an airstrip in Kandahar, the catch – be there in thirty hours before the C-130 takes off.

Never knowing who to trust, Harris and Mo make their way through two-faced friendlies but with guns behind their backs. Everyone knows that Harris is worth a fortune to the highest bidder and everyone plays the game to their advantage. 

It’s cat and mouse in a rugged and dangerous country.

Butler as Harris gives a tough guy storyline as a man who is slick and knowledgeable about the dangers of both Afghanistan and Iran. This is a role that is smooth sailing for Butler as he takes on the role of a man who is quite capable as the enemy soon discovers and needs Mo as well. 

Negahban as Mo is a man who takes the mission because he has things he needs to do personally. His story is one of family, loyalty and getting out alive from a country that holds nothing but death for him. Negahban is focused on what is to be done and knows he needs Harris to get back to his own family.

Fazal as Kahil is an Afghani who lives in two worlds, one of a fighter and one of a man who soaks up everything from the western culture. There is the added bonus to the thrill of the chase for Fazal and Kahil gives it everything to make us believe it. 

Shout out to Fimmel because he has been missed! He will always be Ragnar to those of us with Viking blood (yea so what, he’s an Aussie by birth!) but he has since chosen his roles well and given us more of what he can do in his career. He can currently be seen in the series BLACK SNOW. 

Cast also includes Bahador Foladi as Farzad Asadi, Olivia-Mai Barrett as Ida Harris, Hakeem Jomah as Rasoul, Bassilis Koukalani as Bashar, Rebecca Calder as Corrine Harris, Tom Rhys Harries as Oliver Altman, Ray Haratian as Ismail Rabbani, and Farhad Bagheri as Parshand.

Butler and Negahban play well together as both are men with families to get home to but also a healthy fear of the men in the country they are in. No one can be trusted and the ones that can are far away and unreachable. That leaves only one thing – run as fast as a car and their feet will take them. 

It is also a story of two men who has no reason to trust one another but do. The cast brings in the destructive, dangerous and tenuous element of action to the film and it is non-stop. There is nothing between Kerat and Kandahar but open space and questionable trust but they must get through all of that where the C-130 is not going to wait forever.

In the end – the only thing more dangerous than the mission is the escape!

TRANSFORMERS: Rise of the Beasts 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Steven Caple, Jr. and Paramount Pictures is the return of icons with TRANSFORMERS: Rise of the Beast.

It is the New York of 1994 and Noah (Anthony Ramos) is struggling to find a job to make life easier for mother Breanna (Luna Velez) and brother Kris (Dean Scott Vazquez) who has a medical condition. When things aren’t going well, he decides to do whatever it takes to get money.

Across town is Elena (Dominique Fishback), a researcher at the museum who wants to be part of a unique discover. When an unusual artifact shows up, she is drawn to it wanting to discover where it came from. These two are about to meet and collide literally in the most universal way.

Noah comes face to face with a fast car that has a mind of its own and introduces itself as Mirage (Pete Davison), the wisecracking Porsche who just wants to be friends. Optimus Prime (Peter Cullen) is not at all happy that a human knows about them. Arcee (Liza Koshy) and Bumblebee have joined in.

Why are they out of hiding? Because Unicron (Colman Domingo) is going from planet to planet swallowing them whole wanting to find the Transwarp Key that would open the portal. That portal would be to swallow Earth and destroy the Autobots and the Maximals. Leading that is Scourge (Peter Dinklage) who reports only to Unicron.

The problem is that artifact that Elena found is a key to the very portal that would bring Unicron in but also allow the Autobots to go home. That means finding the key which takes the group to Peru meeting the Maximals with leader Optimus Primal (Ron Perlman), Airazor (Michelle Yeoh), Rhinox (David Sobolov) and Cheetor (Tongayi Chirisa).

There is nothing left to do but fight it out to keep Unicron. Noah and Elena are ready to do what it takes to stop the world from ending and at first it is to save loved ones – but now it also includes the Autobots and Maximals.

Ramos as Noah is an ex-military man just trying to find his place in 1994 while helping with the responsibility of a younger brother. Meeting Mirage, he has no idea that his world is about to get bigger and his chance to help his new friends is dangerous. Ramos gives us a tough and intense young man who realizes that the only way to help his sick brother is to help save the world.

Fishback as Elena is a young woman who is dealing with a boss who takes credit for her work. Once the interesting artifact comes in, she is going to make sure to examine it for herself which is what sets everything off. Fishback gives us an intelligent and adventurous young woman who is taken aback by everything but when the chance arises, she is all in. 

Taken control of being the bots are Cullen with his iconic Optimus Prime voice, Dinklage gets to be the deadly back guy in Scourge, Domingo is the insane Unicron, Yeoh is lovely and stunning in character of Airazor and Perlman makes his mark as Maximal Optimus Primal. 

Shout out to Vasquez as the young Kris, he supports Mirage and Noah for taking on the danger and finds a way to be there for support.

Other cast include Tobe Nwigwe as Reek, Cristo Fernandez as Wheeljack, John DiMaggio as Stratosphere and Transit, David Soblov as Battletrap, Michaela Jae Rodriguez as Nightbird, 

Paramount Pictures is the longest operating and remaining major studio in Hollywood that has been on the ground floor of every major development in film. From the advent of motion pictures to the emergence of television, through the digital revolution, Paramount Pictures has been there. During our 100-year history, we have served as the production site for thousands of notable movies and television shows. For more please visit www.paramountstudios.com.

TRANSFORMERS: Rise of the Beast gives the 90’s vibe with the addition of the music to bring us all back in the day. That seems to be the thing with films in the last few years, using fantastic music from the 70’s-90’s that adds the right amount of draw. 

The storyline is basically what we have come to expect regarding the Transformers franchise, good guys are all around laying low until the bad guys show up. Once that happens, the Autobots have to decide if helping humans and saving their adopted planet is worth it. Of course, while trying to do good, they sure manage to tear the planet they are trying to save apart.

This time they are tearing up New York landmarks and then off to Peru tearing up roads, messing up historical sites and trusting the humans to become Indian Jones like (per the reference from Noah) and find something that should have been really easy for them to find.

Putting that aside, families should enjoy all the action and adventure of the film and might even find themselves cheering, shouting a bit and maybe having a ‘no way!’ moment or two. Optimus Prime does what he does best, question whether humans can be trusted and be the iconic leader we have all come to know since 1984. 

From a television cartoon series, to toys and then to the big screen in 2007, Transformers has become generational. I remember vividly my now late 30-year-old sons sitting in front of the 25” television glued to every episode. I remember sitting with them at the dinner table as they explained who Optimus Prime was and where they came from etc. Then sitting in the theatre watching TRANSFORMERS and now seeing it with my grandchildren. If that isn’t generational, I don’t know what is.

So, gather up your generational clan and jump into the action and adventure of our favorite Autobots and ROLL OUT!

In the end – unite or fall!




The Adventure of DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Honor Among Thieves

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from directors Jonathan Goldstein, John Francis Daley, eOne and Paramount Pictures is the adventure of DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Honor Among Thieves.

As a member of the Harpers, Edgin Darvis (Chris Pine) has turned away from his order when a Red Wizard brings pain into his life. Raising daughter Kira (Chloe Coleman) with companion Holga Kilgore (Michelle Rodriguez), they have turned to becoming thieves. Along with Simon the sorcerer (Justice Smith) and Forge Fitzwilliam (Hugh Grant), they take without hurting anyone.

Forge brings a mission that could change Darvis’ life but it all turns when a Red Wizard Sofina (Daisy Head) puts Darvis and Holga in prison leaving Forge to take care of Kira. A few years later, Darvis and Holga make their way out of prison discovering Forge has become the Lord of Neverwinter. Finding lovely daughter Kira, Darvis also learns that Forge has not been telling the truth about what happened. 

Leaving Neverwinter without Kira, Darvis knows there is only one way to change this, find Simon to help get into the castle for Kira and retrieve the resurrection tablet. Needing more help, they look for the tiefling shapeshifting druid Doris (Sophia Lillis). She begrudgingly decides to help and each step leads them to more relics with the help of Xenk (Rege-Jean Page). 

All of this is to get inside the vault to change their fates and deal with Sofina during Forges’ opening of public games. Not swayed by the danger, Darvis, Holga, Simon and Doris take on everything thrown at them because together – they are a mess, but a mess with heart!

Pine as Darvis leads this rag tag group of misfits on an adventure that is really kind of cool. He is a man on a mission and sometimes the character forgets that it isn’t all about him. Pine has got some great lines, swing into action and is fun to watch. Coleman as daughter Kira is a delight to watch. Her character obviously cares for her father but hurt can be a powerful thing. Kira gives a performance of how I would think a young daughter would feel believing what she does about her father Darvis.

Grant as Fitzwilliam is clever, silly, hilarious and cowardly. I just loved watching his character be as shifty as I know Grant can play a character. This is also the character type of a man who will use anyone to get what he wants – even if it kills them. He has the twinkle eye of greed and Grant has such timing and it is totally fun to watch.

Rodriguez as Kilgore has a short fuse when it comes to people attacking her or pretty much anyone else for that matter. She is strong, swings what ever is in her hands like a pro and does not suffer fools. I actually enjoyed watching Rodriguez in this role believing that it is actually she who holds them all together.

Smith as Simon just wants everyone to know that he needs to learn a lot more about the world of magic. Yet, when he is called upon to help take on the big mission, he rolls his eyes, protests a bit and then off he goes to help Darvis. Smith is funny and yet sweet at the same time in this role. Lillis as Doris is another strong female character that just does not have time for stupidity. Wanting to stop the madness that is happening all around them, she reluctantly joins Darvis on his mission.

Page as Xenk is the handsome good guy that offsets Darvis’ sort of bad guy. He is charming, thoughtful, giving and wants to help the band get what they need. From the moment he is on the screen he oozes smooth and I’m okay with that. Head as Sofina is a woman that has powers to make even the earth shake. She is on her own mission to turn the world into zombieland and stopping her becomes just as important. Head is awesome and a tad scary in her portrayal, well done. 

Other cast include Spencer Wilding as Gorg, Will Irvine as Tobias, Nicholas Blane as Chancellor Anderton, Bryan Larkin as Chancellor Norixius, Sarah Amankwah as Baroness Torbo, Colin Carnegie as Elvin High Harper, Georgia Landers as Zia and clayton Grover as Chancellor Harnathan. 

Paramount Pictures is the longest operating and remaining major studio in Hollywood that has been on the ground floor of every major development in film. From the advent of motion pictures to the emergence of television, through the digital revolution, Paramount Pictures has been there. During our 100-year history, we have served as the production site for thousands of notable movies and television shows. For more please visit www.paramountstudios.com.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Honor Among Thieves is definetly a fun family film. I saw it with family and we had such a good time together. I did not know what to expect and left the theatre talking about the film. There is action, adventure, a solid story, great special effects, and lots of humor that everyone gets to enjoy.

Directors Daley and Goldstein might have a franchise on their hands for sure. Yes, it did remind me a bit of THE MUMMY franchise but I’m a huge fan of those films so sure, do it with DUNEGEONS & DRAGONS. If you can keep the story from breaking off into ridiculous directions then I’d be all in. 

Get ready for a whole lot of fun because that’s what DUNEGEONS & DRAGONS: Honor Among Thieves brings. If non-stop action is your thing, if video games are your thing, if having fun is your thing then this is the film to see this weekend!

In the end – who needs heroes when you have thieves?