Martial Arts Films

Netflix Stuns with 3 BODY PROBLEM

Jeri Jacquin

Premiering on Netflix in an original series from creators David Benioff, D.B. Weiss and Alexander Woo is the fantastical in the story of a 3 BODY PROBLEM.

It is Beijing in 1966 during the Chinese Cultural Revolution when the crowds are cheering on the condemning of professor Ye Zhetai, once highly respected. In the crowd is a daughter Ye Wenjie who watches as her father refuses to deny scientific theories. Even the professors’ one-time students are now against science and pit his own wife against him.

In present day, detectives led by Da Shi (Benedict Wong) makes a shocking discovering in an apartment. A man has taken his own life but it is what they find in his apartment is more shocking than his death. Da Shi has uncovered that at least 30 scientists have been found dead in a months’ time. At the Oxford University Particle Accelerator, Saul Durand (Jovan Adepo) and a colleague Vera are having a discussion on why the science isn’t working and where is God.

Jin (Jess Hong) and friend Auggie (Eiza Gonzalez) are scientists out having a drink and discussing why the accelerators worldwide are not making sense. It is not just their research but experiments all over the world are having the same issues. Auggie can’t help but notice there is something strange in the air, when it finally appears she is shaken and what she sees will not go away.

Jack Rooney (John Bradley) and friend Alex Sharp (Will Downing) are attending a funeral and remembering their friend. Saul, Jin and Auggie are also there and an unexpected guest in Dai Shi. He observes a mysterious guest leaving the service in Mike Evans (Jonathan Pryce) who takes off in an equally mysterious helicopter. The group gathers to talk about old times and what is happening now but Auggie needs air. That’s when she meets a stranger who knows what it is Auggie is going through and taunts her with what can happen at midnight.

Flashback to 1967 Mongolia as Ye Wenjie (Zine Tseng) is in a work camp where she meets Bai Mulin. Sharing what they can of their lives, things turn difficult for her as those in charge want her to betray others her father knew. Sent to a military base dealing with the Red Coast project, she believes that once inside the gates, she will never leave. Once inside, she witnesses the strange power of a signal sent out and what they are truly doing on the base.

At the Black Palace in London, Da Shi is creating a board filled with names and faces investigating each one. Thomas Wade (Liam Cunningham) discusses what he is finding out about each person in the photos. Jin goes to pay respects to Vera’s mother (Rosalind Chao) and while there, she finds a headset. Vera’s mother tells her to take it believing it to be some video game, when Jin tries it – it is anything but.

It is almost midnight and Auggie asks Saul to go with her to see what the stranger might have been talking about. Looking up at the night sky, what they observe is that the sky is “winking” at them all. But what is it really? Or was it trying to tell them all something larger than they could have ever imagined.

Each has a role to play but what is it to each of them and why - that is what is coming in the 3 BODY PROBLEM!

Wong as Da Shi is a man on a mission to discover how all of these people are connected all while trying to find missing artifacts. A strong presence with a bit of sarcasm thrown in. It will be interesting to watch his role unwrap and what part he plays in the mystery.

Gonzalez as Auggie is the first in the group to discover the internal clock and listens to the mysterious stranger on how to make it stop. Her pressure is on to find out why this is happening and what part her company plays in it. Hong as Jin is the one to discover what Vera’s headset is capable of but it will not be without its dangers and realities. Worrying about Auggie, it doesn’t stop her from jumping into the ‘game’ of the headset.

Tseng as Ye Wenjie is a young woman who is caught up in an era of survival. The loss of her father doesn’t stop the Commission from coming for her as well. Led to the base, she takes it upon herself to learn about what they are doing and makes her own decisions.

Adepo as Saul tries to find answers to the “winking” by covering it up in conspiracy theories. Wanting to just write it off as such, there will come a time when that isn’t going to be possible. Chao as Vera’s mother has her own secrets to tell. Dealing with the death of her daughter, her friends come to pay their respects. Chao gives us past mystery as well as present mystery.

Bradley as Jack decided that being a millionaire candy maker is much more fun than science. That doesn’t mean he still isn’t deep in it when it comes to being with his friend’s pre-candy. I do love when Bradley shows up for a role because I know it will be quirky. Downing as Alex also traded his science life in for that of becoming a teacher. Getting over his romance with Jin is equally as difficult but he has Jack to make him laugh.

Cunningham and Pryce are still the mystery roles that I’m sure will slowly come into play and, since I am a fan of both these actors, I can’t wait to see where their characters go.

Other cast include Marlo Kelly as Tatiana, Sea Shimooka as Sophon, Saamer Usmani as Raj Varma, Gerard Monaco as Collins, John Dagleish as Felix, Stephen Hughes as Anwar Suleiman, Adrian Edmondson as Denys Porlock, Bilal Hasna as Edgar, Ben Schnetzer as young Mike Evans, Aidan Cheng as Reg, and Eve Ridley as Follower.

Netflix is the world's leading streaming entertainment service with over 158 million paid memberships in over 190 countries. Enjoying TV series, documentaries and feature films, Netflix is across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can watch as much as they want, anytime, anywhere and on any internet-connected screen. For more information, please visit www.netflix.com.

Episodes include Countdown (directed by Derek Tsang), Red Coast (Derek Tsang), Destroyer of Worlds (Andrew Stanton), Our Lord (Minkie Spiro), Judgement Day (Minkie Spiro), The Stars Our Destination (Minkie Spiro), Only Advance (Jeremy Podeswa), and Wallfacer (Jeremy Podeswa).

3 BODY PROBLEM starts out stunning and catches the attention right away. That’s an excellent way to start because this is a slow telling which is a fantastic way for the audience to understand each of the characters. Be prepared for flashbacks but know that it is a truly interesting foundation for the story moving ahead.

I love the cast because they work so brilliantly together. Yes, there are a few Game of Thrones faces and a face or two from the superhero world but I’m good with it. Nothing wrong with recognizing the potential of actors going past a series that made them famous. In fact, very smart as a way to bring audiences in!

There is a bit of everything in the series, science fiction, mystery, adventure, a trip through history, gaming, science itself and the constant questioning. That’s about all I am going to tell you because this is a series experience and one that I believe will have people talking for quite some time. Netflix has taken a bold move in bringing something unique and powerful for those craving just that.

With all the remakes boring viewers for entertainment to tears, 3 BODY PROBLEM is the solution to wake them back up! Prepare to be blown away in 8 binge worthy stunning and brilliant episodes of the newest offering for the senses.

In the end – are we in a chaotic era?

Netflix Offers Up the World with SPACEMAN

Jeri Jacquin

Currently streaming on Netflix from director Johan Renck based on Spaceman of Bohemia by Jaroslav Kalfar is the story of the loneliest SPACEMAN.

Commander Jakub Prochazka (Adam Sandler) is a Czech astronaut on a space mission to learn more about the intergalactic dust around Venus. At home is his wife Lenka (Carey Mulligan) who he waits to hear from daily. Commissioner Tuma (Isabella Rossellini) monitors all of the incoming and outgoing messages of the couple and when a serious one is received, Tuma decides that Jakub should not know about it. Sending their astronaut out to do what other countries would not, Tuma is not going to jeopardize it all.

Everyone notices that Jakub is having a hard time but he tries to continue with a daily routine maintaining the ship. Then something strange happens inside the capsule. Jakub discovers there is another passenger on the ship and is stunned that mission control does not see it on the cameras. Coming to terms with his all-out fear, Jakub now becomes curious as the creature lets him know that it is curious about the spaceman’s humanity, loneliness and Lenka.

Getting to understand one another, Jakub names the creature Hanus (Paul Dano) and another journey begins, one of emotions and understanding. A strange friendship is happening on the way to Chopra cloud. Jakub begins to understand his life and the wonders of it all through the eyes of an unusual friend.

We should all be so lucky.

Sandler as Jakub is a man wanting to fulfill his mission to Venus but in the process, he breaks a promise to wife Lenka. That is something that not only causes his marriage to be in jeopardy but is a sore subject when Hanus brings it up time and again. This is a Sandler we haven’t seen before but it’s a perfect time for him to arrive at this point in space. He gives us a performance where he carries not only the film but the emotion that won’t let us rest until the very end – and probably farther if I’m being honest.

Mulligan as Lenka is not happy about Jakub’s decision to take the mission because of a promise he made to her. Upset, the message she sends is something Hanus is curious about what she is feeling and going through. Mulligan gives us a woman going through her own emotional process of wanting the life she loved and the life Jakub is confined her to by his space journey.

I am giving such a serious shout out to Paul Dano as Hanus. His voice is soothing and non-threatening even when his character is calling out Jakub’s flaws. Wrapped up in this creature’s body, there is one scene where listening to him talk about the beginning and ending of everything is soulful, tearful and so beautiful I don’t believe I will ever forget it.

Other cast include Kunal Nayyar as Peter and Lena Olin as Zdena.

If you are looking for the wise-cracking comedic Adam Sandler then you are looking at the wrong film. This film is a deep, intense story of a man who had to go in the deepest darkest place in space to find beauty and the answers of his life. Sandler is absolutely stunning in this role as a man who befriends a creature as they teach and learn from one another.

I must tell you that tissue is a must because the story of a man in space and a wife on earth that every scene will complete gut you. There are scenes where Sandler just completely emotionally eviscerates to the point of physical pain in the chest – at least for me. There is also intensity with the relationship between Jakub and Hanus until the very last frame and I am here for every second.

The space cinematography is, pardon the pun, stellar, so colorful and moving. There is an such emotion attached to seeing the beauty in space and Sandler brings it up close and personal to us with his reaction. I got to give it to the character of Hanus and Dano’s voice when he speaks once they get to the dust near Venus.

This is a complete journey and nothing one would expect but everything a film lover would want from this unexpected space story. When a film can move, delight, surprise and keep us talking after – now that’s a film that should have been in theatres but I’m thrilled I experienced it in the comfort of my own home (so no one could see me teary eyed!).

In the end – they are on the doorstep of the universe!

Prime Brings the Twists of Being EXPATS

Jeri Jacquin

Streaming on Prime Video from writer/director Lulu Wang based on the novel The Expatriates BY Janice Y.K. Lee comes the connected story of people who are trying to understand their lives as EXPATS.

Hong Kong is in an uproar in 2014 and in the midst of it is Margaret Woo (Nicole Kidman), husband Clarke (Brian Tee), children Philip (Bodhi del Rosario), Daisy (Tiana Gowen) and little Gus (Connor James) are living their best life. Helping with the children is Essie (Ruby Ruiz) who the Woo clan feels is part of their family.

On another floor is Hilary Starr (Sarayu Blue) and husband David (Jack Huston) who are trying to decide whether they want family. Dealing with fertility problems, it seems that perhaps it is more than that as a potential answer enters their lives through the twisted hand of fate. Also in the Starr household is housekeeper Puri (Amelyn Pardenilla) who knows more about what happens in their home than they do.

College graduate Mercy (Ji-young Yoo) is living in Hong Kong trying to find her place in the world. Working jobs as a catering server, she feels as if her life has been preordained to be a disaster because of a book she found as a child. Weaving her way through the streets of Hong Kong she tries to make the right choices but gets caught up in her own way.

Each woman discovers that happiness can be stripped away in a matter of a few text messages as their worlds come into question. The questions that arise from tragedy are what is right, what is wrong and what is fair are all in their own hands as they being to understand themselves and one another.

Kidman as Margaret is a woman who has accepted her life following husband Clarke through his career. Taking care of the household and children have become her life, but when tragedy strikes, Margaret becomes obsessive with everyone around not knowing how to handle it. Kidman character becomes unhinged that her life has been thrown in a direction she isn’t prepared for. Tee as husband Clarke is the calming influence, his character is that of a man who loves his life, family and pretty much has a ‘water off a duck’s back’ to difficulties. Again, here is a character that now has to come face to face with a difficulty that is unimaginable. I enjoyed Tee’s performance as Clarke becomes truly raw and it hits hard.

Blue as Hilary is a force to be reckoned with and don’t plan on trying to get a word in edgewise when her mouth starts motoring. It is her Indian heritage that has steeped her into playing many faces in order to maintain a look of calm and togetherness. Even when forgiving someone, she hides her emotions with talks. Huston as David is one of the people who is caught up in the web of Hilary’s inability to control her talking when things become difficult. Not knowing what is place is in their marriage takes him on reckless path. Huston gives his character a mixture of that recklessness and unreliability to his marriage.

Yoo as Mercy is a young woman emotionally lost in a very large city. Working hard just to pay the rent, Yoo’s character believes something she was told as a young girl. It is so engrained into her psyche that she allows it to be the reason for bad choices. Yoo’s portrayal of Mercy is that of a young woman who will come to terms with life, and those who have been affected by a moment that can not be taken back.

Pardenilla and Ruiz are the two women employed by the families to help with their households and children but they are still in the middle of everything that goes on. There is this invisible wall between their lives to the point where they even speak so openly that when Essie and Puri are with their friends who also work in households, it doesn’t take long for rumors to become confirmed fact. Essie loves the Woo family and Puri sees the possibility of success away from housework.

Other cast include Poon Pak Shing as Sam, Bonde Sham as Charly, Flora Chan as Olivia Chu, Blessing Mokgohloa as Pastor Alan Mambo, Sudha Bhuchar as Brinder, Jennifer Beveridge as Tilda, Lesley Chiang as Philena Song, Gabrielle Chan as Jing Woo, Elizabeth Ng as Shellac, Steven Chan as Detective Chang, Edmund Ng as Andrew, Rasha Goel as Geeta,

Amazon Prime offers television shows and original content included in its Amazon Prime subscription. Original programs such as CARNIVAL ROW, THE MAN IN THE HIGH CASTLE, and THE MARVELOUS MRS. MAISEL are hit shows. Coming soon is the next series with GOLIATH starring Billy Bob Thornton and it promises to another successful and intense series. For more information, please visit www.amazon.com/Amazon-Video.

EXPATS is a look at these women and how one moment changes so much. The lives they are each living seemed far removed from one another yet one deep hurt reaches further than their lives. It turns the lives of everyone they come into contact with and all that glitters is not gold. Like the rest of us, they lose their way, realize what they’ve given up for their own dreams and, in some cases, do not know how to walk away.

The men, Clarke and David are a bit of second players in this large cast of women. That being said, their moments on screen are filled with emotions they aren’t “supposed” to feel being men. Tee and Huston are surrounded by what is expected of them rather than being able to speak their truths.

EXPATS brings the story of these characters in six episodes with the first two already aired on Prime. Each episode will be brought weekly until its final conclusion. This is a stunning piece of storytelling from start to finish.

In the end – we are what we survive!

AppleTV+ Brings Us THE VELVETEEN RABBIT

Jeri Jacquin

Streaming on AppleTV+ from director Jennifer Perrot and Rick Thiele adapted by the Margery Williams story is a story of love with THE VELVETEEN RABBIT.

William (Phoenix Laroche) is a young man who has difficulty making friends. His parents are very worries about him but do not know how to handle the situation. For Christmas, William receives a stuffed rabbit in his stocking and he is instantly captivated and found a friend.

Almost immediately William and Rabbit (Alex Lawther) set out for adventures and his new friend is absolutely delighted. Later, in the nursery, Rabbit meets the other bedtime toys with Wise Horse (Helena Bonham Carter), the King (Paterson Joseph), Car (Lois Chimimba) and Lion (Clive Rowe). They explain what it means to be real and Rabbit wants to be seen that way by William.

Left under a tree, Rabbit begins to questions William’s feelings and by the next morning, Rabbits world is about to change. Understanding what has happened and what must be done for his best friend, Rabbit begins to understand that love has no bounds. Doing what is right and based in love is what makes someone real – even a small rabbit.

Laroche as William is just endearing and so lovely as a young boy who can not seem to find his place in the world. He does, however, find adventure and love in a stuffed rabbit who is as real and alive to the boy as anything else in the world. I was so drawn in by Laroche’s portray of the young boy who just needed one rabbit to open his world.

Lawther as the voice of Rabbit is so soothing, calm and even when he is trying to understand the new world around him, remains ever dependable. There is something to be said for the way he speaks in that its almost a ‘thinking’ voice, the voice we all have within us but in Rabbit’s case is outside for William and his toy friends to hear.

Carter, Joseph, Chimimba and Rowe are sweet as Williams other nursery toys. They are gentle with Rabbit explaining how their world works. Even when things look dire, their explanation is filled with understanding and sympathy. We should all have such friends.

Other cast include Ellie Mejia as Miss Forrester, Samantha Colley as Mother, Leonard Buckley as Father, Tilly Vosburgh as Mary, Elizabeth O’Toole as Lucy, Nathaniel Parker and Bethany Antonia as the rabbits.

AppleTV+ is a video on demand web television that debuted in 2019 viewable through the Apple TV app. CEO Tim Cook wanted original content calling it “a great opportunity for us from a creation point of view”. From THE MORNING SHOW to TRYING and THE BANKER and Jason Momoa in SEE, there is plenty of choices for everyone. Plenty of genres? That is exactly what they are bringing to viewers and to see more of what they have to offer please visit www.apple.com/tv/.

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT is a stunning mixture of cgi and animation in a story of love between a boy and his stuffed rabbit. It only has a running time of 40 minutes but personally it is probably all my emotions can take. The mixture of mediums offers an even more in-depth look at the relationship of adventure and fun for William and Rabbit which is amazing.

Bringing this story to AppleTV+ offers the opportunity for the family to not only see the story come to life once again, but perhaps invite the youngsters who have not experienced it. For those of us a little older, the story is reminiscent of childhood and, for some of us, remembering our own Rabbits (yes, I still have mine).

As the holiday season gets busy, this is the perfect film to sit back with a cup of tea for yourself and hot chocolate for the kids and cuddle together for a story of the ages. William and Rabbit have something to teach us all about friendship, loyalty and the ultimate in love.

In the end – when a child loves you with all their hearts!

FOR ALL MANKIND Sends Season One into Space

Jeri Jacquin

Coming on Bluray from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment and creators Ben Nedivi, Matt Wolpert, Ronald D. Moore is the world of ‘what if’s’ about the history of the space race with FOR ALL MANKIND.

It is 1969 and, in this universe, Soviet Alexei Leonov has just landed and step foot on the moon ahead of NASA and the United States is stunned. Edward Baldwin (Joel Kinnaman), an Apollo 10 astronaut, is furious and is out drinking when he tells a reporter that NASA basically didn’t do enough to win the space race. Baldwin’s wife Karen (Shantel VanSanten) knows this is trouble.

Director Wernher Von Braun (Colm Feore) is not happy with this and send him to, well, Siberia refusing to work with him again. When Apollo 11 does go up, Armstrong (Jeff Branson) and Aldrin (Chris Agos) run into problems. Crossing the border into the United States, Rosales and his daughter Aleida (Coral Pena) start a new life and gets a job working at NASA. Aleida also finds that she has an interest in space.

Nixon wants a moon base and he wants it now even though Director Braun says it is not possible. The president doesn’t like being told no and a campaign against Braun begins and Baldwin finds himself in the middle of the mess. Margo (Wrenn Schmidt) has been loyal to Braun and is shocked to hear what has been happening. Deke Slayton (Chris Bauer) brings Baldwin back into the fold but not before another Soviet moon shock happens.

Slayton is frustrated as Nixon once again makes demands of NASA and this time, he wants female astronauts. Included is Tracey Stevens (Sarah Jones), wife of Gordo Stevens (Michael Dorman) of Apollo 15, Molly Cobb (Sonya Walger), Patty Doyle (Cass Bugge), Danielle Poole (Krys Marshall) and Ellen Waverly (Jodi Balfour). The women are excited and the men are nervous as training begins, and it is all dangerous.

The Soviets are having problems of their own as well but NASA is pushing hard. Slayton has decided to remove Gordo from Apollo 15 and send Cobb instead. The problem is she has a chip on her shoulder the side of the moon. Margo tells her that she needs to rethink her attitude and that Cobb has the potential to blow the mission, the switch is flipped and she is on point.

Once on the moon, Cobb makes a discovery that allows the team to claim success in the mission. Poole is dealing with her husband who has returned from Vietnam with mental issues. That doesn’t stop from NASA’s Moon base names Jamestown. It’s now 1974, Baldwin, Gordo and Poole are living on the base and they are worried about communism. President Ted Kennedy is now running things and Apollo 23 causes a disaster that reworks NASA. Margo revisits Braun and finds a reason to get NASA to put her in charge and the Soviets have their Zvezda base.

Apollo 24 is having its issues delaying its meet up with Jamestown and it is becoming clear that Gorgo needs to go home and how that happens is intense. Ellen and Larry (Nate Corrdry) are dealing with issues that the FBI are bringing to the forefront and there is only one solution. Home lives of other astronauts are becoming serious and Baldwin doesn’t know that his son has been in a serious accident. Baldwin also discovers that the Soviets are truly spying on their base.

Karen is struggling and Apollo 24 continues to have technical failure. So much so that Ellen and Deke are dealing with the fallout. Dennis Tracy and Molly are preparing with Apollo 25 as the Soviets infringe on the U.S. mine but find they need their help from a country they shouldn’t.

Ellen and Deke are dealing with what is happening aboard Apollo 24 and once again there is a need between two countries. Baldwin has a chance to find out firsthand what the Soviets are thinking and what they are doing. That does not stop the expansion of Jamestown, no one or nothing is going to stop it.

Kinnaman as Baldwin is a man determined to get to the moon even if he sometimes steps in a bit of trouble. Trying to balance a home life and a career, he sees the effect it has on his wife but the drive to go to space is powerful. I have always enjoyed Kinnaman’s performances and in this series, he does not disappoint and delivers a strong storyline with tension and emotion. VanSanten as wife Karen goes through a series of every emotion possible when trying to support the choices her husband makes but there comes a time when it is now her choice in what comes next in her life.

Dorman as Gordo has a history of being a ladies’ man and everyone knows it, but after a mission to the moon things begin to change for him. Dorman gives his character such complexities and I never know what he’s going to do next and that’s everything. Jones is wife Tracy who knows her husband has predilections and turns the other way. That is until she is recruited into NASA where the balance of their marriage shifts. Jones portrays Tracy as going through being a housewife to a career that no one saw coming.

Balfour as Ellen is working hard to get up the ladder at NASA and is making choices about her life because of the stigma push of society. Balfour is quietly powerful and it will all come to radical decisions for their time. Schmidt as Madison leans heavily on her friendship with Von Braun but will find her own footing. Schmidt carves a path for her character and its again subtlety strong. Walger as Cobb jumps into training but it doesn’t mean she isn’t clear about who wants to be in power and who is in charge of the fake socials. Marshall as Poole is a woman of color who knows what she needs to do to get to the moon. When it comes down to it, Marshall is put in the position that conflicts with NASA and home.

Pena as Aleida has a match problem but once her father introduces her to the possibilities at NASA, she is taken under Margo’s wing to find where she wants to be. Her father has a melt down when she makes it clear than rather going to college to become an engineer, she wants to stay in school with her friends and the boy in her life.

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.

The Bluray includes the 10 Episodes: Red Moon, He Built the Saturn V, Nixon’s Women, Prime Crew, Into the Abyss, Home Again, Hi Bob, Rupture, Bent Bird, and A City Upon a Hill.

FOR ALL MANKIND: Season One introduces the viewer to a world that would not be expecting. It is not upside down or twisted but a linear view, side by side, with the basic history of space. There are issues and incidents that keep us on the ground and then on the other line is unexpected and fantastic storylines that compel continual viewing.

The cinematography of space is pure joy if even if you might not be a total space fan. It shows exactly what we would expect of the cosmos and of life on the moon. The intensity of the missions is filmed beautifully and keeps the suspense exactly where it should be, thumping in the middle of our chests. The political issues are interesting because it tackles the story of ‘what if this didn’t happen’ scenarios and everything is challenging.

Let’s not forget the drama and intrigue of the cast of characters either. It is vast and for both men and women, families and friends, life decisions and issues that although playing in the linear universe to our own, are totally relatable and equally frustrating. The first few episodes are a mixture and take a moment to place but once it happens, everything else expands like the universe.

Strap down because this rocket doesn’t slow down.

In the end – the space race is never going to end!

THE GREAT AMERICAN BAKING SHOW: Celebrity Holiday

Jeri Jacquin

Currently streaming on the Roku Channel is a signal that the holidays are here as THE GREAT AMERICAN BAKING SHOW: Celebrity Holiday bakes up the goods.

This year hosted by Casey Wilson and Zach Cherry, celebrities Joel McHale, Phoebe Robinson, Heather McMahan, DeAndre “DJ” Jordan, Ego Nwodim, and Arturo Castro will be judged Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith. Their culinary talents (maybe) will be judged on three challenges and the final creations.

First, for their Signature Bake, they are making sandwich cookies with the filling of their choice. and the only instruction is to make something that invoke holiday memories. The minute they are told to “bake!”, the chaos begins with only one hour and forty minutes to impress Paul and Prue. The offerings of snowmen, Christmas tree decorations and many more are up for judging. Paul knows what he is looking for and is not about to cut them any slack and Prue is enjoying the sweets.

For the Technical Challenge, they have no idea what they will be baking. All they know is Paul loves to push the limits of reading instructions. Making six Sufganiyot (jelly donuts) that are pure perfection, they have only two and a half hours to complete the task. It is clear that there is no way the excitement can be contained – especially when one particular celebrity is thrilled to be using a ‘proving drawer’ for the first time!

Finally, to get the coveted GABS Cake-Plate, the gang’s final challenge is the Show Stopper Challenge. They are asked to make a novelty cake decorated as their favorite childhood toy. Using sponge cake, they can use any filling of their choice and they have a little over three hours to make it all come together. Prue knows what can happen if they are not accurate in their measurements for their cakes to stand up to the decorations.

Joel is banging a drum which is close to his comedy roots (ba-da-dum), Ego is making the toy of her childhood dreams that actually works for her time baking, Phoebe is doing something that has Paul questioning her color choices, DJ recalls the best Christmas present he ever received and its going to be proudly atop his vegan cake, Heather is working on an homage to her blondeness in strawberries, and Arturo is twisting his colors in eggnog while Prue runs off with a certain ingredient.

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I am a huge fan of THE GREAT BRITISH BAKING SHOW and never miss a season (and have even re-watched seasons). Witnessing the changes the show has take and always happy to see the return of Paul Hollywood and Prue. Let’s be honest here, when Paul stares with those icy blue eyes, the world stops spinning. That being said, he also knows his profession and even in good fun he lets each baker know what they can do better next time.

Watching the fun, excitement and creativity in each of the celebrities is always fantastic and with the holidays it’s a tasty good start. The competition has these six contestants talking to themselves, being openly hilarious and even helping one another a bit to bring goodies to the holidays. I’m a tad jealous that they are in the tent but I’m determined to someday stand inside it myself, not to bake – just stand.

THE GREAT AMERICAN BAKING SHOW: Celebrity Holidays is truly a fun way to start the holidays. Watching these celebrities come together, enjoy each other’s company and learns so much than they could have imagined is so cool. Baking has already started in many households to prepare for Thanksgiving so there are plenty more days till Christmas to become our best creative selves. Each of the challenges offers up new and exciting ideas to test out on friends and family.

Am I going to give away the winner? Of course not! I’m not a Scrooge so gather the bakers together and have a great time watching THE GREAT AMERICAN BAKING SHOW: Celebrity Holidays.

In the end – it is everything delicious!

She Escapes to THE WINTER HOUSE

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to streaming services such as Apple TV, Amazon, and Sling TV and also on VOD from writer/director Keith Boynton, Choice Films and Freestyle comes the story of the

unexpected when looking for solace in THE WINTER HOUSE.

Eileen (Lili Taylor) has found the most remote place on a lake in New Hampshire to spend time alone. Happy for the solace, she spends time walking, reading and thinking - which can be dangerous for a writer. The days pass with some semblance of routine until one night there is a stranger in the kitchen. Stumbling around is Jesse (Francois Arnaud), intoxicated and also unsure of what is happening.

After introductions, Eileen makes it clear that she is renting the house and that Jesse needs to find his way to his own home. Trying to sober him up, she decides to let him stay the night. After a few days of his company, a bit of irritation sets in feeling that her whole reason for being at the house feels intrusive.

Even sending him away doesn't last long but their conversations become more personal and deeper. Each has the chance to share what has happened to put them in the spot they are both in. Especially when a man named Paul (Hunter Emery) shows up at Eileen's door demanding to see Jesse and now the whole truth in both their lives comes to a head and neither can run away any longer.

Taylor as Eileen gives the performance clearly of a distraught woman who, after so many years, is no longer sure what she wants from this life. Taking time away has several purposes and none of them will move her forward. Not even the unexpected visitor seems to shock her in any way but instead Taylor’s Eileen accepts it all as it is and not what Jesse might want it to be. Taylor’s performance is deliberate, sadly sweet and filled with details as they come to light.

Arnaud as Jesse reacts the opposite of Eileen. Where she is quiet and deliberate, he is loud and emotional. He also has a trunk load of secrets that cannot stay hidden from anyone, no matter how much Jesse drinks. Trying to find a connection to something that is tangible, Arnaud’s portrayal of Jesse is that of a man who knows what the right thing is, but, as with all human beings with a past, fear can be ever controlling.

Emery as the mysterious Paul is the brute tension to the story and he does it in a short scene. That keeps the guessing high wondering when this character is going to show up again.

Other cast include Stephen C. Bradbury as the Shop Owner and Beth Fowler as Deborah.

Freestyle Releasing specializes in releasing films theatrically and representing independent films. Releasing content through Freestyle Digital Media, their most successful film theatrically to date is the 2014 film GOD’S NOT DEAD. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.freestyledigitalmedia.tv

THE WINTER HOUSE is a slow-paced story that is laid out in increments allowing the viewer to be a part of the deeper story that is to come. Keeping the cast small is a favorite of mine because it allows us to quietly enter into the room and experience for ourselves the story’s we don't tell each other. Eileen is a complex character in her own right trying to hide the bag of bricks she carries in solace. Jesse is less complex but still a man who has created his own path and now it’s time to clean it up.

Taylor and Arnaud together are a powerhouse but in a subtle way. In fact, the entire film is subtle with nothing earth shattering or loud but instead, a deep quiet dive into the lives of two human beings who are looking for a connection that allows their existence to make sense. That is what makes the film relatable as well, two people with the same feelings in a shared space with only one thing separating them – secrets.

In the end – how far away is far enough?

PORTRAIT OF THE QUEEN

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Digital from director and award-winning photographer Fabrizio Ferri and VMI Worldwide is a look at one of the most photographed women with PORTRAIT OF THE QUEEN.

This documentary, narrated by Charles Dance, looks at the life of an iconic queen and her legacy. This is a perspective on how she came to be so visually represented throughout her long and memorable reign. Referred to as a stable for in the lives of millions, people from all over the world have been affected by her presence. Her decades long presence in the life of her own subjects, they share their true feelings for the monarch.

But her pictures have always stood out beginning with the most prestigious with her first royal portrait after becoming queen. Equally stunning are photographs of the crowds on that very same day and the pride felt in their royal traditions.

Emma Blau, photographic artist and curator/co-owner of Camera Press, has a dedicated archive of the Queen. Photographers do their best to be original in their portrayal of her majesty. Blau makes her case in how photographing the queen from the first has brought about so many changes in the way a portrait is done.

John Swannell is one of the photographers of the Queen and recalls his encounter as the second big occasion to photograph the new queen was her wedding to Prince Phillip. Brian Aris was invited by the palace to do royal photographs as well. Meeting and photographing the Queen became quite a nervous experience, as one would expect.

Even Canadian singer and performer Brian Adams took photos of the Queen in 2004. What came of it is that one of his photos became the center of a Canadian postage stamp and her majesty loved it.

Pierpaolo Piccioli, creative director of Valentino, believes the Queen’s expressiveness spoke louder than words. Her clothing does the same thing and shows through photographs. Vivid colors and pastels become a staple of photographing the Queen.

Photographer Julian Calder speaks about the lasting images of the photographs taken at Balmoral. His photos of the queen near a river in her robes creates stunning and images that are unique and timeless.

Having informal photographs of the Queen, it shows a different aspect and perspective of her life. Photos with her children, family, husband and her beloved corgis brings about a sense of relatability to those who view them.

David Montgomery came to England in the 1960s and stays busy with his work. Getting his chance to photograph the queen, at first, he declines. After speaking with his wife, he agrees to take the pictures. He begins his work photographing the queen at Balmoral in Scotland in, what would be considered, a relaxed atmosphere. Fireside, corgis and her beloved horses all become prominent in these photographs. It is an amazing experience that he holds very dear.

Jason Bell is the photographer at the 2013 christening of her great-grandson Prince George. Bell did his research of previous portraits of the royal family. He gets to observe the family life of the royals as they come together for the photograph.

Chris Levine, an artist, uses light and laser to create his art. The queen sat for a holographic portrait. Explaining the process in detail is complicated, yet at one point Levine feels someone behind him and it is the queen herself. As an avid photographer herself, her interest in what is happening becomes very clear.

The queen has represented so much to the people and the biggest word to describe feelings is – respect. England is a complicated country, as most countries are, but the feelings toward the queen are clear, she is a beloved monarch.

Even after her death, this documentary is a beautiful, stunning and colorful reminder of a woman who spent her life in service, caring for a family and became an unwavering symbol during times of distress as well as joy.

Other voices in the documentary are Isabella Rossellini and Susan Sarandon.

VMI Productions started off with BLOOD OF REDEMPTION, starring Dolph Lundgren and Vinnie Jones (2012), and WICKED BLOOD, starring Sean Bean, Abigail Breslin, and James Purefoy (2014), which were both distributed and co-produced by Entertainment One in North America. VMI’s third film, WAR PIGS, starring Mickey Rourke and Luke Goss (2015), was released theatrically by Cinedigm in the US as part of a multi-picture output deal with Cinedigm for North American distribution for in-house productions. For more information, please visit http://www.vmiworldwide.com/

As a result of this evolution, VMI possesses the ability and desire to board the right project, at any stage of development, and is capable of attaching cast and/or financing as well as finding the right distribution partners for a film. VMI seeks to establish long-term working relationships with its production partners.

PORTRAIT OF THE QUEEN is a stunning look through photography and those who created the images, the life of England’s monarch. Charles Dance is a voice worth listening to in every performance he has done but more so throughout this documentary. He reads diaries, stories and ideas on photography of those who had the honor of photographing her majesty.

Director Ferri says, “Elisabeth II has, over the years, worked with great photographers from whom she has commissioned the portraits used to build, communicate and manage her image. Paola Calvetti, author of the book Elisabetta II. Ritratto di Regina, asked me to direct and do the photography for the film PORTRAIT OF THE QUEEN written by her. Paola’s intuition to take an unprecedented point of view and make a film about the collaboration between Queen Elizabeth II and the great photographers in compelling and winning. I started working on it with care and attention and began imagining a point of view that was also unprecedented in order to turn the book into a film.”

I enjoyed having Dance read and narrate the documentary as well as perspectives from Rossellini and Sarandon on their feelings towards not only being photographed but meeting the Queen. Each photographer brings something wonderful to this story and its telling of an icon while being in her presence. Each of them seems to tell of her interest in what they were doing and, having an opinion on their artistry.

For myself, I have always admired Queen Elizabeth II as a strong figure and personable in her own gracious way. From deaths, wars, family tragedy, political struggles, and the change in times – she made her own way through each. I never once saw in photographs or reels any sign of a woman overcome but it all. Instead, I saw a woman who showed how to make it through it all.

Of course, that is the image the palace wanted but it does not mean it wasn’t who she was and I’d prefer to believe that her gift was just that – a woman of strength and dignity who just happened to also wear a crown.

A SMALL LIGHT Shines So Bright

Jeri Jacquin

Currently available from National Geographic Studios and ABC Signature in a limited series is the story of the Frank family and another part of the story from the view of A SMALL LIGHT.

Miep Gies (Bel Powley) was born in Austria but was adopted by a family in Holland. It is 1940 and she loves her family but they see she is not married and without a job and they are worried0about her. That’s when Otto Frank (Liev Schreiber) comes into her life and a job that she wasn’t even qualified for happens.

Miep becomes close to the Frank family and enjoys the company of Edith (Amira Casar), Anne (Billie Boullet) and Margot (Ashley Brooke). She also meets Jan (Joe Cole) and finally makes the second thing her parents are worried about happen – she is married. Everything is going well for Miep even though things are a bit strange with the war begun by Hitler.

One afternoon in 1942, Mr. Frank asks Miep to come into the office to talk. He tells her that leaving Germany was for the protection of his family and now fears that he did not go further enough away. He asks that Miep help him to go into hiding with his family and she does not hesitate to agree. The story is that the Frank family has gone to Switzerland.

The plan is made for the Frank family to move into the upstairs small loft that was not being used and that no one knows about. During the day the family would have to remain silent and quietly move about at night. Miep is all in on the plans to get everyone to the loft before the Nazi’s arrive. Helping from the office as well is typist Tess (Eleanor Tomlinson) and Victor Kugler (Nicholas Burns).

Also going into hiding is Hermann Van Pels (Andy Nyman), wife Auguste (Caroline Catz) and son Peter (Rudi Goodman) and joined later by Dr. Pfeffer (Noah Taylor). Now the challenge begins on how to keep the family safe, fed and out of the reach of the Nazi’s. Once Miep tells Hans, who is a social worker who sees how wrong people are being treated, decides he also wants to be a part of the Dutch resistance.

As the Frank’s are hiding, Miep learns how to help run Mr. Frank’s pectin business and along with that are a few secrets that make things a little difficult. Jan starts his part by helping people with children get them to a safe place. Relationships are obviously strained as Miep learns who she can trust, who she cannot, how far people are willing to go to betray one-time friends and what will happen to them all?

This is a story of friendship, survival, loyalty and hope for the future!

Powley as Miep is exceptional in this role. She gives Miep a powerful voice, even if it does get her in trouble occasionally, and an equally powerful sense of right and wrong. Once she begins working for the Franks, Miep blossoms even more if that would be possible. She takes the Franks and others under her protection and takes on the role of protector, provider and keeper of secrets that could hurt them all. I just loved every time Powley was on screen as she truly is a force to be reckoned with. Taking on this iconic role, she made it look easy and brought out so many emotions from the first episode to the last.

Schreiber as Otto Frank is a big task for any actor yet Schrieber handle it with such grace and a sense of calm when everything around this character was in chaos. From accepting Miep and her ways to saving his family and a few others, it is clear that Frank was constantly thinking and staying as informed as he could. The relationship on screen with Powley is just breathtaking.

Cole as Jan has a rough beginning with Miep but when he sees how strong she is and the possibilities of doing right by others, he jumps right in. Cole gives his characters strength as a human being but also as a husband (and he needs it!). I thoroughly enjoyed his performance and teared up more than a few times as Cole’s portrayal of Jan is compassionate beyond measure.

There are so many strong performances in this limited series that I could write about them all day. Casar, Boulette and Brooke as the Frank women are trying to do their best but with all mothers and daughters – there are issues as it become a tense situation in the loft. Tomlinson as Tess does what she can and helps when she is able, including a little secret milk run. Burns as Office Manager Kugler also puts his life on the line to help the Franks and the intensity comes every time there is a knock at the door.

Other cast include Liza Sadovy as Mrs. Stoppelman, Ian McElhinney as Johannes Kleinman, Laurie Kynaston as Casmir, Sebastian Armesto as Max Stoppleman, Bill Milner as Tonny Ahlers, Sean Hart as Willem, Preston Nyman as Kuno Van Der Horst, Hanna van Vliet as Frieda, Tom Stourton as Daniel Van Dijk, Daniel Donskoy as Karl Silberbauer, Dylan Edwards as Isaac Schwartz, Sarah T. Cohen as Maya Schwartz, Sinead Phelps as Anka, and Brian Caspe as Laurens.

National Geographic is an American pay television network and flagship channel owned by National Geographic Partners, a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society. They support a diverse, international community of changemakers — National Geographic Explorers — who use the power of science, exploration, education, and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. For more information, please visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

ABC Signature is an American television production studio that is a subsidiary of Disney Television Studios, a division of Disney Entertainment, which is a division of The Walt Disney Company.

The episodes include Pilot, Welcome to Switzerland, Motherland, The Butterfly, Scheilfeld, Boiling Point, What Can Be Saved and Legacy

The cast is absolutely stellar as each of the directors Susanna Fogel, Leslie Hope and Tony Phelan seamlessly bring the story of Miep Gies and what her contribution was to the Frank family and the people of the Netherlands. The intensity is palpable and the heartbreak felt to the soul as Meip and Jan make it perfectly clear that a few can make a large difference.

From the loft, to the office to the streets, there is such a constant fear and yet a hope that the viewer will feel in each episode. Living in a time where being Jewish came with consequences, there was once a time no one could imagine what the war would cost them. It was also a time where good people put their own lives in jeopardy by doing the right thing for the Jewish community and humanity itself.

This series should be a must-see for educators because then it becomes a teaching tool. The Diary of Anne Frank became one of the most memorable books I ever read in school and I have re-read it so many times the cover is tattered. A SMALL LIGHT goes even further in explaining how things happened and what was happening on the other side of the bookcase door.

A SMALL LIGHT is streaming on the National Geographic channel and available next day on Hulu and Disney+.

In the end – sometimes you have to risk everything!

Apple TV Brings Answers to the Final Season of SERVANT

Jeri Jacquin

Streaming on AppleTV+ tomorrow from M. Knight Shyamalan is the conclusion to the twisted and complicated series SERVANT.

Leanne (Nell Tiger Free) is decorating the house in anticipation of the return of Dorothy Turner (Lauren Ambrose). After her accident, it is time for Dorothy to return home to work on recovery and being home with son Jericho.

Husband Sean (Toby Kebbell) realizes there is a disconnect between he and Dorothy. He has his highly successful cooking show but it is on the back burner to the chaos in his home. Wanting to be there for his wife, she is distant and untrusting of him. Brother Julian (Rupert Grint) is wary of everything and even having problems in his relationship with Leanne.

There is something outside the brownstone that is determined to get Leanne back into the fold. Attack after attack, she manages to keep them at bay. When Dorothy returns, there is animosity between the two women that Leanne can not seem to grasp. Dorothy is determined to get well and calls on two women Bobbie (Barbara Kingsley) and Bev (Denny Dillon) to care for her.

Leanne is starting to unravel and everyone in the house sees it – especially Julian. As Bobbie and Bev make their mark on the Turner household, Leanne makes it clear that she is not happy with what is happening and it must be said, when Leanne isn’t happy bad things begin to happen.

As if they already haven’t been happening.

Ambrose as Dorothy is a woman who is clearly on the warpath. She may not be able to physically get to Leanne but she sure knows how to play the game. There are concessions to be made where Jericho is concerned but Dorothy is going to have her way. Ambrose has always given such complexity to the role of Dorothy and it has been mind boggling and delightful all at the same time. Keeping it together mentally was worth watching every moment of, now it’s time to see what Ambrose does physically with Dorothy and I’m all in. Well done!

Free as Leanne has gone from a sweet, loving, caring – oh wait, that was only in the first few episodes. Clearly this character begins to come into her own and discovers that she has something that other people want. Trying to stay away from those who would keep her captive, she makes a place for herself with the Turner family. The problem is that they are starting to question whether she truly does have a place. Free is absolutely stunning as Leanne and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching her embrace and take this role in places I didn’t see coming.

Kebbell as Sean is dealing with his own personal guilt. Constantly being pulled from Dorothy to Leanne and back again, I’m surprised he doesn’t have whiplash from the first three seasons. Now, with Dorothy literally down in the dumps, he might find a way to get back to her with the help of two little old ladies and a bit of ‘chef’ing. Kebbell has shown his character to be a bit of a narcissist and self-centered, but in this season, Kebbell has to show contrition with Sean and I have no doubt in my mind that will lead to choosing between Leanne and Dorothy for the fight of their lives.

Grint as Julian has, through these seasons, been the reason I laugh, a lot of jaw dropping and wondering what part his character will play in this last season. Right now he is shagging the nanny as it were but there is a price to pay for playing with crazy. I have so enjoyed watching the subtle and not so subtle changes in Julian and Grint is the reason for it. Come hell or high insanity, Grint’s portrayal of Julian is there in the thick of it and even if he doesn’t understand anything or everything, he doesn’t hesitate to talk about it.

Shout out to Kingsley and Dillon for being the new gals in town. They bring their own brand of crazy that I kind of like. Moving into the Turner home isn’t a cake walk (chef pun intended) but these two women aren’t about to let anyone in the house push them around or stop them from helping Dorothy get well. That is making Leanne crazy!

Other cast include Tony Revolori as Tobe, Molly Griggs as Isabelle, and Todd Waring as Frank Pearce.

Apple+ is a video on demand web television that debuted in 2019. Viewable through Apple’s TV app, CEO Tim Cook wanted original content calling it “a great opportunity for us from a creation point of view”. From THE MORNING SHOW to TRYING and THE BANKER and Jason Momoa in SEE, there is plenty of choices for everyone. Plenty of genres? That is exactly what they are bringing to viewers and to see more of what they have to offer please visit www.apple.com/tv/.

SERVANT has been a series I could not stop watching, so much so that I have watched it twice to look for any clues as to where the story might be going. Honestly, I don’t think I wanted to know everything because it ruins the startling surprises and twists that are thrown into each thirty minute episode.

Yes, the thirty minutes never seems enough time but that’s the brilliance of SERVANT. Those thirty minutes are jam packed full of story telling and when the credits roll, I can guarantee you that those watching are practically throwing things at their television screens. To me, that is awesome!

This cast has brought four seasons of intensity, laughter, head smacks, and no denying a lot of ‘wtf’s along with way. Shyamalan, along with creator Tony Basgallop, have brought something unique and a bit mind blowing to Appletv+. But all good things must come to an end whether we like it or not right? It has been one heck of a unique wild ride!

Gawd what a great show.

He is QUASI

Jeri Jacquin

Currently streaming on HULU from director Kevin Heffernan and Searchlight Pictures is the twisted hilarity and the story of QUASI.

It is 1800’s France and the very hunched Quasi (Steven Lemme) is hanging out with his friend Duchamp (Kevin Heffernan). Walking to work, Quasi is subjected to, well let’s just say, bad manners by the people of his village. Working at the local torture chamber, the rest of the village is celebrating Pope Week.

King Guy (Jay Chandrasekhar) is bored with life at the moment and with the new Queen Catherine (Adrianne Palicki). She is stunning but more importantly, very smart as well. She visits the torture chamber below wanting a tour led by Quasi taking an interesting in his work.

In the town square, Quasi finds himself the winner of an audience with the Pope but also the King. During a private conversation, the King reveals what he really wants – the Pope gone! Pope Cornelius (Paul Soter) does not want to spend one dinner moment longer than he has to with King Guy as it seems there is a history there as Cardinal Claude (Erik Stolhanske) gets caught in the dining crossfire.

When Quasi finally has his confessional win with the Pope, it seems the King isn’t the only one who wants a person knocked off with a jewel encrusted dagger. Now Quasi is caught between two men who want each other dead and a Queen who has plans of her own. As with everything in Quasi’s life, things go awkwardly wrong with death is at his doorstep, he shows that even a hunchback can be a hero!

Lemme as Quasi is so sweet and really doesn’t want to hurt anyone. Shocked at the attentions of Queen Catherine, that has to be put aside while he finds his way out of a serious mess. Lemme is just cool, period, and, if it can be said – nice hump dude! Heffernan as buddy Duchamp is a little more than upset that Quasi won the lottery. Getting attention from the lovelies of the village is about one step more than he can handle. Heffernan takes his role and makes me want to spend the evening doing shots with him.

Chandrasekhar as King Guy is a ruler full of, well, himself and has no conscience where death is concerned. That all being said, Chandrasekhar looks frakken fantastic in a crown! I do have to say that I miss his moustache but I can’t be greedy (or can I?). As the King, he is greedy, arrogant and petulant – and I love it.

Soter as the Pope is a man of some god or other with a long-standing grudge toward the King. Soter’s version of the Pope is probably the most hilarious ‘pope’ I’ve seen mainly because he says what a lot of us think. Stolhanske as the Cardinal is the perfect pairing with Soter, their whispering session was sheer hilarity.

Palicki as Queen Catherine is hilarious, beautiful, smart and is not about to let a King or a Pope stand in her way of making sure Quasi is saved. Well, truth be told she isn’t thrilled about being married to this particular King either. Palicki is charming and hilarious all rolled into one, but then again, I’d expect nothing less! Long live the Queen!

SHOUT OUT to Brian Cox, seriously, you can not reunite the gang without bringing back the leader with the voice that makes you want to buy a burger from McDonalds and crushes family in succession. Yea, I did that.

Other cast include Buck Heffernan, Quinn Heffernan, Kelsey Heffernan, Eugene Cordero, Marcus Henderson, Michael Yurchak Hassie Harrison, Gabrielle Lane, Gabriel Hogan and Phil Hudson.

Hulu is the leading premium streaming service offering live and on-demand television and movies. The platform gives viewers instant access to current shows, libraries of hit television series and film as well as Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning originals such as The Handmaid’s Tale and The Act. For more of what Hulu has to offer please visit www.hulu.com.

Searchlight Pictures is responsible for such films as SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, 12 YEARS A SLAVE, THE SHAPE OF WATER and THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING MISSOURI. They have an extensive film library as well as documentaries, scripted series, and limited series. For more information, please visit www.searchlightpictures.com.

The SUPER TROOPERS band of Broken Lizard consisting of Steve Lemme, Jay Chandrasekhar, Paul Soter and Erik Stolhanske join writer/director Heffernan in creating their newest comedy. Based on The Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo, this 1831 class is being set on its ear!

It is nice to see the band is back together again taking on a period piece with the coolest set designs. Running along the borderline of appropriate, I’ve always thought this group is the funniest because of their unique ability to dance along that line while making us all laugh. As a superfan of the 2001 film SUPER TROOPERS and use the lines from the film in everyday life, my funny bone needed a good laugh right meow!

Taking the story of Quasi and giving it every hilarious moment they could squeeze out is not only what I would expect from this gang of comedy misfits but, to be honest, I probably wouldn’t have watched otherwise. The pairing of Lemme with Heffernan, Chandrasekhar with Soter and Palicki as the sparkling, sugar coated cake topper is everything.

Get ready for a new twist on an old tale, or should I say a new twisted story just waiting for this particular group to share.

In the end – every day is a hump day!

Disney+ Brings PETER PAN & WENDY

Jeri Jacquin

Currently streaming on Disney+ from writer/director David Lowery based on the story by author J.M. Barrie is the classic tale of PETER PAN & WENDY.

In London, Wendy Darling (Ever Anderson) is at home with her brothers John (Joshua Pickering) and Michael (Jacobi Jupe) enjoying her last night at play. Parents George (Alan Tudyk) and Mary (Molly Parker) have decided that it is time for her to grow up and go off to boarding school. Make it clear to her mother that she is unhappy does not change their decision.

Mother may not be listening but Peter Pan (Alexander Molony) and fairy Tinker Bell (Yara Shahidi) are! They decide to take the Darling children back to Neverland. Almost immediately they are introduced to Captain Hook (Jude law) who just can’t get over losing his hand to a crocodile. Helping in the chaos is Mr. Smee (Jim Gaffigan) who stands at Hook’s side even though he might not always agree with what is happening.

Becoming separated, Wendy is on her own and meets Tiger Lily (Alyssa Wapanatahk) and the Lost Boys as they all watch when John and Michael are captured by Hook. Peter sees this all as part of the adventure but Wendy sees it as her brothers are in serious trouble. Following them to Skull Rock, the skirmish begins.

Wendy is furious with Peter Pan but the Lost Boys explain to her the history with Captain Hook and Peter. She also learns the story of James, Peter and Neverland as she begins to understand her friend more. Captain Hook makes another attack and he believes his problems with Peter are over.

Tiger Lily makes sure that Peter Pan has one more chance to rescue the Darling children. Now, it is time to finally settle their differences one last time, or is it one last time?

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment 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 to add to your own family library please visit. www.movies.disney.com for their At Home titles!

Disney+ is the subscription home streaming entertainment with Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and more. There are exclusive originals with new feature films, shows, short form content, documentaries, and actions series such as THE MANDALORIAN. For more information, please visit www.disneyplus.com.

Other cast include Forence Bensberg as Curly, Sebastian Rodriguez as Nibs, Jesse Pierce as Skylight, Ian Tracey as Sallyport, Skyler and Kelsey Yates as Twin 1 and 2, Diana Tsoy as Birdie, Noah Matofsky as Slightly, John DeSantis as Jukes, Gargield Wilson as Gurley, and Caelan Edie as Tootles.

PETER PAN & WENDY is a sweet family film that deserves to be on Disney+ along side the animated film and Robin Williams version of the same name. Attempting to expand on the tale is fine but nothing earth shattering. Flying boy - check, fairy - check, Lost Boys – check, Hook and pirates on a ship – check, adventures – check, and crocodile – check. Done.

Basically, it is the Peter Pan story told again when it truly didn’t need to be. Disney has gone well out of its way to rewrite their own story telling and it isn’t really doing much for me. To be honest, my family watches Disney+ more for the original telling because that is what we love. The original animation and characters have continued to delight us again and again.

The re-telling, re-thinking, re-imaging and whatever other label they want to attach to their filmmaking in the past few years isn’t needed. You can tell the story of Peter Pan any way you want but it’s still the story of Peter Pan so instead of rehashing old stories, making our favorite animation into silly live-action – I have a great idea.

How about the money go for new and smart storytelling? Create new characters that are fair and balanced, spend the funds on all those great writers and directors and actors just waiting to be a part of something special, something Disney.

That’s my opinion for what it’s for, PETER PAN & WENDY is a nice, charming family fun film but it doesn’t offer anything new and exciting and I miss that about an icon that is generational. Oh well, it was the wonderful world of Disney.

In the end – it is the next adventure!

BLACK BIRD

Jeri Jacquin

Currently streaming on Apple+ from director Dennis Lehane is the story of a man who had it all and became careless with it in BLACK BIRD.

Jimmy Keene (Taron Egerton) is a handsome and impeccably dressed young man who finds himself in a position of losing money and defending a friend who cheated and lied. Thinking that event was over, his house is raided by the FBI. Now he has traded in his impeccable suits for an orange coverall.

Visiting his son is, Big Jim Keene (Ray Liotta), a former cop, tells Jimmy that local prosecutor Edmund Beaumont (Robert Wisdom) can not be bought. Pleading guilty, he discovers that everyone who promised a few years lied as the judge hands down a 10-year prison sentence. Seven months in Jimmy comes face to face with Beaumont again and with Agent Lauren McCauley (Sepideh Moafi).

Admitting that Jimmy could charm his way out of anything, Agent McCauley wants Jimmy to get information from a serial killer. In exchange for his help, Jimmy would get full commutation of his sentence. If he doesn’t get the information then he is back where he started. At first, he says no because he does not trust Beaumont, but McCauley leaves the file for him to see what they are up against – and he starts to read.

In 1994, Brian Miller (Greg Kinnear) is a Chief County Investigator for the sheriff along with Officer Holt (Trazi Lashawn) found one of the young victims in a corn field. Beginning their investigation, Miller discovers that the information they have matches with other incidences that have happened. Officer Chris Drysdale (Carlo Alban) mentions Larry Hall (Paul Walter Hauser) and Miller’s ears are burning.

A chance to interview Hall, Miller also meets Det. Aborn (Cullen Moss) and they all think that the talk is a waste of time. That is until Larry starts talking about what he dreams about and about brother Gary (Jake McLaughlin) and then when presented with a photograph of a young woman, it all falls apart.

Miller has no choice but to take it up the chair, enter Beaumont and McCauley and deciding if Jimmy can handle dealing with a serial killer. Bring Larry in again, he again starts talking and this time about his depression and loneliness and it leads to a shocking confession. As the team gets things on paper, they are shocked once again. Brother Gary is furious with the police and refuses to believe anything they say about Larry.

Now, Jimmy is being transferred to Springfield to the prison where Larry is being held. The rules are simple, don’t make an instant friendship with Hall, don’t break any rules and the only people who know who he really is are the warden and Dr.

Outside, the court of appeals is moving forward and so is the schedule that Jimmy is on. Now the real story begins.

Egerton as Keene is a kid who has spent most of his life without doing what ever he wanted as if almost feeling bulletproof. Prison definetly is not for him so when offered a way out, he did not trust it because of lies he had been told before prison. The more he talks with the FBI, and with his father ill, Keene decides this is a way out. Egerton gives his character so much charm and, dare I say, almost as sly as Larry Hall without the murder. As he listens to the stories that are meant to free him, the walls are closing in and Egerton shows us that Keene is no longer bulletproof – he is literally crawling his way to freedom.

Kinnear as Miller is struck from the moment he is taken to the body of Jessica Roache. The look that this actor gives lets you know from that moment on, nothing is going to stop him from finding the killer. Hitting wall after wall, Miller twists, turns and dodges until he gets the answers. Kinnear does a stellar job in this role and I enjoyed it immensely which is odd considering the content of the material.

Moafi as McCauley is the proverbial dog with a bone. No one is going to convince this agent that anyone else is responsible other than Larry. Teaming up with Miller, they pull apart and piece together clues that lead to shocking revelations. Moafi gives her character courage, righteous anger and a coolness that I gave plenty of nods too.

Liotta as Big Keene is a father who is trying to do the right thing after knowing he was not the father he should have been. The problem is, now he is going overboard and puts his son’s life in danger. It was awesome to see Liotta and will be missed on big and small screens. Wisdom as Beaumont is doing his job but, in Keene’s eyes, he is not to be trusted. Alban as Drysdale can not believe that Larry could do anything wrong and refers to him as a “serial confessor”. McLaughlin as Gary is a dedicated brother who will protect him to the end – but what will it cost humanity?

Now, I save this for last because I still am stunned (but I shouldn’t be) at the performance of Paul Walter Hauser as Larry. The first time I truly noticed this actor was in the 2019 film RICHARD JEWELL and was gob smacked at his performance. When I read that he was in BLACK BIRD along with Egerton, I knew I had to see it. I was not disappointed – instead, I was disturbed, disgusted, confused, angry, yelling at the screen and exhausted by the end of the series. THAT is how you know that only Hauser could have played this role. Every moment Hauser is on screen is pure perfection (again, is weird considering the material, right?). He takes the audience on a journey as Larry of insanity, justification, weird innocence, even weirder childhood and a way of talking that is almost hypnotic and explanations that are jaw dropping.

Director Lehane should be awarded for what he has put together with a cast that is so well chosen and riveting to watch. The mixture of flashbacks, the victims’ stories and those involved whirlwind around Keene and Hall as their own story unfolds. It is the bouncing back and forth between Keene and Hall that is a match that will send the brain scrambling.

There is not one episode that wavers with the breakdown at the end of reality for almost everyone involved. The breaking point is so fragile in each of the characters that being prepared for it – I wasn’t.

In the end – only one knows the truth until now!

THE GOOD NURSE

Jeri Jacquin

Currently streaming on Netflix from Film Nation is the suspense drama based on a true story with THE GOOD NURSE.

Amy (Jessica Chastain) is an ICU nurse trying to make ends meet while also raising a daughter. Learning that her heart is in trouble, Amy continues to work and keeps the condition to herself. Charlie Cullen (Eddie Redmayne) is the new hire who is just as compassionate and caring as Amy which makes for a good friendship.

Daughters Maya (Devyn McDowell) and Alex (Alix West Lefler) are under the care of Jackie (Marcia Jean Kurtz) while Amy works. The great part is that they also enjoy the company of Cullen so it is a really good friendship.

They are both working the night shifts so it is easy for them to share what is happening in each other’s’ lives. When patients pass, Amy believes they should be just as compassionate in death as they should be in life. In the case of one patient, Ana, something seems wrong. Led by Risk Manager Linda Garran (Kim Dickens), they inform the authorities including Det. Danny Baldwin (Nnamdi Asomugha) and Det. Tim Braun (Noah Emmerich).

The police aren’t happy with the length of time the hospital waited to call them making their investigation more difficult. Even more so when they are told that they cannot question staff in a room alone. Linda announces to the nurses that there is a case that is being investigated and it makes them all nervous.

Charlie sees that Amy is struggling and he reiterates that he wants to do whatever he can to help and explains things to daughter Alex. In the meantime, Baldwin and Braun are losing their collective law enforcement patience and let Linda know they understand that she is hiding something.

The investigation starts to heat up as Amy tries to help the police figure out who is responsible and the hospital hides behind itself. What’s more – there may be other patience like Ana.

Chastain as Amy is a mother of two girls and trying to keep it all together. The new health issue is making that even more difficult than ever. That is what Chastain does in this role, manage to keep it together when it becomes even more and more dangerous. Taking on the different and unusual, Chastain has always been the actress who has never put herself into one category of roles and it is always awesome.

Redmayne as Charlie is charming and caring but there is something that causes Amy to question their friendship. Having his own difficulties with not being able to see his kids, he is drawn to Amy and the girls so he can have a bit of something he’s missing in his life. Redmayne gives his character a struggle and a mystery that I love about the roles he chooses.

Asomugha as Det. Baldwin is a man who is not going to stop looking no matter how little evidence they have to go on. Taking it step by step, he works with Amy to do whatever they can with the little they have. Asomugha gives this character strength of character but that doesn’t mean he won’t be shocked in the end.

Emmerich as Det. Braun sees that the one responsible is tricky and has managed to slip through the cracks. Frustration seeps in and the time comes when he will be face to face with questions. Emmerich has always been a straight forward actor who takes his roles to places never expected.

Dickens as Garran is the risk manager at the hospital who clearly understands what is at stake. That doesn’t stop her from working the system that has done nothing to stop the deaths. Dickens is straight forward with a straight face and

Lefler as Alex is a pre-teen that has the attitude to match. She does understand that her mother is ill but at the same time is struggling to understand it all together. She is a strong actress who gives a stellar performance.

Other cast include Judith Delgado as Ana Martinez, Jesus-Papoleto Melendez as Sam Martinez, Myra Taylor as Vivian Neal, Ajay Naidu as Dr. Robert Hind, and David Lavine as Duncan Beattie.

THE GOOD NURSE is a hospital thriller that is filled with twists and unexpected turns. Once again, one woman takes on an establishment that is not only hurting her physical existence but mental as well. Making it clear from the beginning that they will do whatever is necessary to protect themselves, Amy is the only way to find the answers.

One thing that the film says under its breath is that hospitals were not held accountable for anything that happened to patients. That was aggravating to see because it is easy for them to hide with the money and power of good lawyers over patients who do not have the same access.

This is also a crime story because of what happened these patients and who caused it. That is the twists because suspicions are just flipped through distractions and ways around accepting what the truth really is. Yes, I’m been a little bit vague here because I want the viewer to take the same ride through it all as I did.

In the end – this is an unthinkable true story!