Movie Review
“The Joker” ... is a joke!
By James Colt Harrison
“The Joker” ... is a joke!
By James Colt Harrison
It isn’t often a movie makes my stomach turn, but the new Warner Bros./ Roadshow Attractions Pictures production of director Todd Phillips’ Joker is a certain cookie tosser. Supposedly, a prequel to all that came before, in the DC Comics Batman series, and how the Joker character came about, the film will delight rabid and demented fans ... and denziens of lunatic asylums.
Director Todd Phillips has written (with Scott Silver) a tale of poor, neglected and abused Arthur Fleck, a failed stand-up comic, and current working clown at parties. To be sure, this is a tour-de-force for three-time Oscar® nominee Joaquin Phoenix, as he is on screen in almost every horrifying scene. Living at age 44, with his mother (naturally) makes him a candidate for mental illness, as his mom is played by the annoying Frances Conroy (“Six Feet Under”). Since Arthur is off-balance from a childhood of abuse and abandonment by his father, one automatically thinks he’s going to “off” his mother. Arthur, is like a firecracker that is ready to go skyrocketing at any minute without provocation.
Arthur, is usually abused by everybody he meets - and, he is the type of character whom you will say deserves it. He is not a likeable character in any way. Through some fluke, he is discovered by famous TV host Murray Franklin, a mix of Johnny Carson and other late-night hosts. However, he is played superbly by major star Robert DeNiro, Naturally, Arthur does everything he can, to muff his television debut - including taking a leaf out of the famous Peter Finch Network “madness on live camera” scene, which ultimately won him a well-deserved Oscar® in 1975.
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There is no doubt that Phoenix has grabbed probably the best male acting role of the year. However, it is a stomach-churning part, that will alienate everyone who sees it, and will encourage audience members to use their bag of popcorn for an air sickness receptacle. The violence is over-the-top, and should be condemned by every organization that oversees movie madness. It is not a film for children, who probably are comic book fans. One should not let any child see this movie. The blood spurting, gratuitous shootings, and vicious mayhem, go beyond even the worst horror films imaginable. It is plainly disgusting ... and a stain on fine Hollywood film making!
Photos: Warner Bros. - Village Roadshow Pictures
Director: Todd Phillips
Genre: Crime/ Drama/ Thriller/ Horror
Studio: Warner Bros./ Village Roadshow Pictures/ DC Comics
Producers: Bradley Cooper, Todd Phillips, Emma Tillinger Koskoff
MPAA Rating: R for strong bloody vilence, disturbing behavior, language, and brief sexual images
Our Rating: F
Art Direction: Laura Ballinger
Budget: $55,000,000
Casting: Shayna Markowitz
Cinematography: Lawrence Sher
Costumes: Mark Bridges
Editing: Jeff Groth
Locations: Bronx, Manhattan, Harlem, New York; Jersey City, New Jersey
Music: Hildur Gubnadottir
Production Design: Mark Friedberg
Runtime: 121 minutes
Set Decoration: Kris Moran
Special Effects: Captured Dimension, Scanline FX, Shade FX
Writing Credits: Todd Phillips, Scott Silver
Cast:
Joaquin Phoenix: Arthur Fleck
Robert DeNiro: Murray Franklin
Zazie Beetz: Sophie
Frances Conroy: Penny Fleck
Brett Cullen: Thomas Wayne
Carrie Louise Putrello: Martha Wayne
Dante Pereira-Olson: Bruce Wayne
Sharon Washington: Social Worker
Leigh Gill: Gary, the little clown
Bryan Tyree Henry: Carl, Arkham Hospital Clerk
Sondra James: Dr. Sally on TV show
Marc Maron: Gene Ufland
Shea Wigham: Detective Burke
Bill Camp: Detective Garrity
Director: Todd Phillips
Genre: Crime/ Drama/ Thriller/ Horror
Studio: Warner Bros./ Village Roadshow Pictures/ DC Comics
Producers: Bradley Cooper, Todd Phillips, Emma Tillinger Koskoff
MPAA Rating: R for strong bloody vilence, disturbing behavior, language, and brief sexual images
Our Rating: F
Art Direction: Laura Ballinger
Budget: $55,000,000
Casting: Shayna Markowitz
Cinematography: Lawrence Sher
Costumes: Mark Bridges
Editing: Jeff Groth
Locations: Bronx, Manhattan, Harlem, New York; Jersey City, New Jersey
Music: Hildur Gubnadottir
Production Design: Mark Friedberg
Runtime: 121 minutes
Set Decoration: Kris Moran
Special Effects: Captured Dimension, Scanline FX, Shade FX
Writing Credits: Todd Phillips, Scott Silver
Cast:
Joaquin Phoenix: Arthur Fleck
Robert DeNiro: Murray Franklin
Zazie Beetz: Sophie
Frances Conroy: Penny Fleck
Brett Cullen: Thomas Wayne
Carrie Louise Putrello: Martha Wayne
Dante Pereira-Olson: Bruce Wayne
Sharon Washington: Social Worker
Leigh Gill: Gary, the little clown
Bryan Tyree Henry: Carl, Arkham Hospital Clerk
Sondra James: Dr. Sally on TV show
Marc Maron: Gene Ufland
Shea Wigham: Detective Burke
Bill Camp: Detective Garrity
********
Movie Review:
Animation has come a long way. When the first film THE LION KING, was made in 1994, the traditional, hand-made animation method was used. Today, the Disney Studio uses the latest technology of photo-realistic computer-animated equipment. This new, astounding method, makes everything look real, and not at all “drawn” as in the old days of SNOW WHITE and PINOCCHIO. This is, after all, the 21st century, and those films were made in the Dark Ages of 'animation' in 1937 and 1940 respectively.
Per James C. Harrison
Per James C. Harrison
The history of the development of the original film, is an interesting one.
Plans were being formed way back in 1998, when former Disney mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg and Roy Disney, put their heads together with others to work with writer Thomas Disch to write a screenplay. Production began in 1991 at the Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the theme park in Florida.
Then, the decision was made by the aforementioned moguls, plus Peter Schneider, to turn the film into a musical. Great composers were needed. Originally, Benny Andersson (of ABBA) was asked to write some songs - but, he had to decline, due to previous commitments. Then, lyricist Tim Rice, who was working with Alan Menken on songs for another animated film called ALADDIN, was asked to find a suitable person to write songs. He suggested pop singer/composer Elton John ... and history was made!
The history of the development of the original film, is an interesting one.
Plans were being formed way back in 1998, when former Disney mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg and Roy Disney, put their heads together with others to work with writer Thomas Disch to write a screenplay. Production began in 1991 at the Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the theme park in Florida.
Then, the decision was made by the aforementioned moguls, plus Peter Schneider, to turn the film into a musical. Great composers were needed. Originally, Benny Andersson (of ABBA) was asked to write some songs - but, he had to decline, due to previous commitments. Then, lyricist Tim Rice, who was working with Alan Menken on songs for another animated film called ALADDIN, was asked to find a suitable person to write songs. He suggested pop singer/composer Elton John ... and history was made!
Casting for appropriate character voices, took place with the following actors: Matthew Broderick as Simba, teen Jonathan Taylor Thomas as the young Simba, Jeremy Irons as Scar, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Moira Kelly as Nala, Nathan Lane as Timon, Ernie Sabella as Pumbaa, Robert Guillaume as Rafiki, Rowan Atkinson as Zazu, Madge Sinclair as Sarabi, Cheech Marin as Banzai, Jim Cummings as Ed, and the inimitable Whoopi Goldberg as the sassy Shenzi.
Casting for appropriate character voices, took place with the following actors: Matthew Broderick as Simba, teen Jonathan Taylor Thomas as the young Simba, Jeremy Irons as Scar, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Moira Kelly as Nala, Nathan Lane as Timon, Ernie Sabella as Pumbaa, Robert Guillaume as Rafiki, Rowan Atkinson as Zazu, Madge Sinclair as Sarabi, Cheech Marin as Banzai, Jim Cummings as Ed, and the inimitable Whoopi Goldberg as the sassy Shenzi.
Film critic Roger Ebert assessed the picture as a “superbly drawn animated feature.” As such, the film won many accolades, including two Oscars® for Best Original Score (Hans Zimmer) and Best Original Song (“Can You Feel The Love Tonight” by Elton John and Tim Rice). Also nominated for the Academy Award® were the songs “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata.” The film was one of the highest grossing movies of the year, and earned a total of $968,000,000 during its first release.
And following the old Hollywood adage, that if something is good once, it will be good twice ... or three times. Thus, the green light was given ... to do a complete re-do ... for today’s 21st century audiences.
And following the old Hollywood adage, that if something is good once, it will be good twice ... or three times. Thus, the green light was given ... to do a complete re-do ... for today’s 21st century audiences.
Plans were confirmed, about doing a remake of THE LION KING when Jon Favreau, was signed in September 2016 to direct the film. Favreau, had just come off directing the highly successful THE JUNGLE BOOK for Disney. Screenwriter Jeff Nathanson, was brought on to write the script, with a story by Brenda Chapman. Although gossip was, the film was to be a “live action” remake, Favreau quickly said, that it was not a film using real actors, but a modern technological marvel! The studio, worked in conjunction with a visual effects outfit, The Moving Picture Company, employing the latest visual reality methods, by using new animation methods and motion capture.
Plans were confirmed, about doing a remake of THE LION KING when Jon Favreau, was signed in September 2016 to direct the film. Favreau, had just come off directing the highly successful THE JUNGLE BOOK for Disney. Screenwriter Jeff Nathanson, was brought on to write the script, with a story by Brenda Chapman. Although gossip was, the film was to be a “live action” remake, Favreau quickly said, that it was not a film using real actors, but a modern technological marvel! The studio, worked in conjunction with a visual effects outfit, The Moving Picture Company, employing the latest visual reality methods, by using new animation methods and motion capture.
In what are some of the most beautifully filmed scenes put onto a motion picture screen, the credit must go to Cinematographer Caleb Deschanel. The Philadelphia born (September 21, 1944) artist, has been nominated for an Academy Award ® six times. Those films are THE RIGHT STUFF (1983), THE NATURAL (1984), FLY AWAY HOME (1996), THE PATRIOT (2000), THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST (2004), and NEVER LOOK AWAY (2018). This guy knows what he’s doing ! He has worked with some of the top directors of our time, such as Barry Levinson, Roland Emmerich, William Friedkin, Jim Sheridan and Warren Beatty. You won’t be disappointed, with his superb artistry, in this new version of the Disney classic. Everything he touches, and points his camera at, is a work of art.
Again, the music plays a great part of the enjoyment of the film. Musical genius Hans Zimmer is on board as composer, and all the favorite Elton John-Tim Rice songs light up the sound track. Especially popular, are the hit songs “Can You Feel The Love Tonight,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Circle of Life.” Popular singing artist Beyonce, chipped-in with John and Rice, to create
a new end-credit song for the film!
In what are some of the most beautifully filmed scenes put onto a motion picture screen, the credit must go to Cinematographer Caleb Deschanel. The Philadelphia born (September 21, 1944) artist, has been nominated for an Academy Award ® six times. Those films are THE RIGHT STUFF (1983), THE NATURAL (1984), FLY AWAY HOME (1996), THE PATRIOT (2000), THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST (2004), and NEVER LOOK AWAY (2018). This guy knows what he’s doing ! He has worked with some of the top directors of our time, such as Barry Levinson, Roland Emmerich, William Friedkin, Jim Sheridan and Warren Beatty. You won’t be disappointed, with his superb artistry, in this new version of the Disney classic. Everything he touches, and points his camera at, is a work of art.
Again, the music plays a great part of the enjoyment of the film. Musical genius Hans Zimmer is on board as composer, and all the favorite Elton John-Tim Rice songs light up the sound track. Especially popular, are the hit songs “Can You Feel The Love Tonight,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Circle of Life.” Popular singing artist Beyonce, chipped-in with John and Rice, to create
a new end-credit song for the film!
This is not the same 1994 film simply rehashed. It runs longer ... at 118 minutes for one - and some iconic scenes, were re-imagined for the new version. Director Jon Favreau, had the unenviable task of creating a brand new film, without copying the old one. He has accomplished his goal, by fashioning a film that stands on its own - and, it is a beautiful one, indeed!
Photos: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Directed by Jon Favreau
Genre: Musical/ Adventure/ Fantasy/ Drama
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures/ Fairview Entertainment
Producers: Jon Favreau, Jeffrey Silver, Karen Gilchrist
MPAA Rating: PG for sequences of violence and peril, and some thematic elements
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: Vlad Bina, Helena Homes
Casting: Sarah Finn
Chinese title: Shi Zi Wang
Cinematography: Caleb Deschanel
Editing: Mark Livolsi, Adam Gerstel
Locations: Hollywood, South Africa
Music: Hans Zimmer
Production Design: James Chinlund
Production Start: Mid-2017
Release Date: July 19, 2019
Running time: 118 minutes
Sound Mix: DTS, Dolby Atmos
Visual Effects: The Motion Picture Company, Robert Legato, Elliot Newman, Adam Valdez.
Writing Credits: Jeff Nathanson; based on Disney’s The Lion King by Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts, Linda Wolverton
Voice Cast:
Donald Glover: Simba, lion crown prince
JD McCrary: Young Simba
Seth Rogan: Pumbaa, slow-witted warthog
Chiwetel Ejiofor: Scar, treacherous brother of Mufasa
Alfre Woodard: Sarabi, Queen of the Pride Lands
Beyonce Knowles-Carter: Nala, Simba’s love interest
Shahadi Wright Joseph: Young Nala
Billy Eichner: Timon, meerkat
James Earl Jones: Mufasa, King of the Pride Lands
John Kani: Rafiki, wise mandrill
John Oliver: Zazu, red-billed hornbill & majordomo to the King
Keegan-Michael Key: Kamari (spotted hyena)
Florence Kasumba: Shenzi (spotted hyena)
Eric Andre: Azizi (spotted hyena)
Amy Sedaris: elephant shrew
Directed by Jon Favreau
Genre: Musical/ Adventure/ Fantasy/ Drama
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures/ Fairview Entertainment
Producers: Jon Favreau, Jeffrey Silver, Karen Gilchrist
MPAA Rating: PG for sequences of violence and peril, and some thematic elements
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: Vlad Bina, Helena Homes
Casting: Sarah Finn
Chinese title: Shi Zi Wang
Cinematography: Caleb Deschanel
Editing: Mark Livolsi, Adam Gerstel
Locations: Hollywood, South Africa
Music: Hans Zimmer
Production Design: James Chinlund
Production Start: Mid-2017
Release Date: July 19, 2019
Running time: 118 minutes
Sound Mix: DTS, Dolby Atmos
Visual Effects: The Motion Picture Company, Robert Legato, Elliot Newman, Adam Valdez.
Writing Credits: Jeff Nathanson; based on Disney’s The Lion King by Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts, Linda Wolverton
Voice Cast:
Donald Glover: Simba, lion crown prince
JD McCrary: Young Simba
Seth Rogan: Pumbaa, slow-witted warthog
Chiwetel Ejiofor: Scar, treacherous brother of Mufasa
Alfre Woodard: Sarabi, Queen of the Pride Lands
Beyonce Knowles-Carter: Nala, Simba’s love interest
Shahadi Wright Joseph: Young Nala
Billy Eichner: Timon, meerkat
James Earl Jones: Mufasa, King of the Pride Lands
John Kani: Rafiki, wise mandrill
John Oliver: Zazu, red-billed hornbill & majordomo to the King
Keegan-Michael Key: Kamari (spotted hyena)
Florence Kasumba: Shenzi (spotted hyena)
Eric Andre: Azizi (spotted hyena)
Amy Sedaris: elephant shrew
********
Movie Review:
“Downton Abbey” fills the big screen with beauty
By James Colt Harrison
Born out of the world-wide smash hit television series, and from the talented writer Julian Fellowes, the new motion picture Downton Abbey hits the big screen. The series kept fans fascinated for five years, so that each episode was waited anxiously to see what shenanigans the various cast members would get tangled up in each week. The television series made stars of relatively unknown British actors, with the exception of such established veterans as Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery and American actress Elizabeth McGovern.
Julian Fellowes is so adept at creating well fleshed-out characters that audiences fell in love with most of them or adopted them as their favorites each week as the series of intriguing stories unfolded. Even the kitchen staff created loveable characters in head cook Mrs. Patmore (Lesley Nicol), the dour Mrs. Hughes (Phyllis Logan), head butler Charles Carson (Jim Carter), bad-boy Mr. Bates (Brendan Coyle), the whiney maid Daisy (Sophie McShera), and Anna (who later married Mr. Bates), who was played by pretty blonde actress Joanne Froggatt. And we can’t forget the evil-minded trouble-maker and closeted gay staffer, the young and handsome Thomas Barrow, played to perfection by Robert James Collier. Memorable characters all, and they are all on board in the film to bring back memories for fans and to create new ones.
What causes a crisis in the Crawley family might not be a crisis in an ordinary clan. But they are the infamous Crawley family, residents of the fabulous home of Downton Abbey. In the film, the entire staff is all in a dither because the Royal Family, consisting of King George V (Simon Jones) and Queen Mary (Geraldine James) and their entourage, is coming for a visit and a stay overnight. That would send any kitchen staff and the maids into a catastrophic stroke just being in the King’s and Queen’s presence. But the catch is that the Royals have brought their own staff and want them to take over. This does not ring well with cook Mrs. Patmore and head mistress Mrs. Hughes. Some delightful comedy arises when the staff rebels and plots how they can serve the King and Queen and not have to deal with the bothersome royal cooks and butlers.
There is surprisingly a lot of romance woven into the plot. Irishman Tom Branson (Allen Leech) fancies Susie Smith (Tuppence Middleton), Lady Bagshaw’s (Imelda Staunton) maid. There is real chemistry between them, and they make an adorable and sweet match-up. On the other side of the coin, Thomas Barrow (Robert James Collier), who is now Head Butler for the Crawleys, found a companion on the Royal staff who fancies him and serves to save his reputation under the anti-gay 1927 London laws.
Seemingly everyone’s favorite character, Dowager Countess of Grantham, played with a razor-sharp tongue by Oscar® winning actress and British treasure Maggie Smith, doesn’t disappoint. She has a rapier retort for just about everyone, and writer Julian Fellowes has thrown her all the best lines, and deservedly so.
This is perhaps the most civilized, elegant, posh and well-mannered film to be made in many years. The Production Design by Donal Woods and costume design by Anna Robbins is exquisite.
Photos: Focus Features
Directed by: Michael Engler
Genre: Drama/ History
Studio: Focus Features
Producers: Julian Fellowes, Gareth Neame, Liz Trubridge
MPAA Rating: PG for thematic elements, some suggestive material, and language
Our Rating: A+
Art Direction: Caroline Barton, Mark Kebby, Simon Walker
Casting: Jill Trevellick
Cinematography: Ben Smithard
Costumes: Anna Mary Scot Robbins
Editing: Mark Day
Locations: England
Music: John Lunn
Production Design: Donal Woods
Runtime: 122 minutes
Writing Credits: Characters: Julian Fellowes; Screenplay by: Julian Fellowes
Cast:
Maggie Smith: Dowager Countess of Grantham
Hugh Bonneville: Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham
Elizabeth McGovern: Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham
Michelle Dockery: Lady Mary Crawley
Laura Carmichael: Lady Edith Crawley
Robert James Collier: Thomas Barrow
Imelda Staunton: Lady Bagshaw
Harry Hadden-Paton: Bertie Pelham
Penelope Wilton: Isobel Crawley Grey, Baroness Merton
Matthew Goode: Henry Talbot
Joanne Frogget: Anna Bates
Brendan Coyle: John Bates
Jim Carter: Charles Carson
Lesley Nicol: Mrs. Patmore
Phyllis Logan: Mrs. Hughes
Sophie Mc Shera: Daisy Mason
Kevin Doyle: Joseph Molesley
Allen Leech: Tom Branson
Raquel Cassidy: Phyllis Baxter
Tuppence Middleton: Lucy Smith
David Haig: The Royal Butler
Philippe Spall: Royal Chef
Richenda Carey: Mrs. Webb
Geraldine James: Queen Mary
Simon Jones: King George V
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Movie Review:
“Ad Astra” stars Brad Pitt
By James Colt Harrison
If there was ever a “star” vehicle, this is it. Brad Pitt grabs a hold of 20th Century Fox’s Ad Astra and dominates the screen in almost every scene. Shown in the IMAX process, the film gives him enormous closeups, we see and feel his emotions, we see tear drops fall from his eyes during tense and emotional scenes. This is Pitt’s moment; he is the ultimate star of the screen and, in this film, of the distant Heavens.
Director James Gray seemingly simply turned on the camera, focused on Pitts handsome and craggy face, and let him roll. That was a wise decision as Pitt quietly rivets the viewers’ attention on him and all that happens to him as he hurtles through space.
Why is he taking months to arrive at his destination? He’s on assignment as an American astronaut to investigate why electrical surges are disrupting things on earth. With life hanging in the balance, Pitt (Major Roy McBride) must find out what is causing the potential elimination of humans on earth. Authorities suspect it may be caused by Pitt’s missing father, scientist Clifford McBride (Tommy Lee Jones), an early pioneer who went into space years ago and was considered dead or missing. Now there are indications he may be alive and causing the experiments that threaten the entire solar system. Suspected to be hiding out on distant Neptune, Jones’ character is adamant about continuing to search for life on the distant planets.
Tommy Lee Jones is craggier than craggy and is believable as Pitt’s father. At age 72, and with Pitt at age 55, Jones’ Clifford McBride would have been 17 when he became Roy’s father. Awfully young, but he was always a pioneer in whatever he did.
The film is not without action, suspense, and chills. Hurtling through space has its dangers, and many are shown to the audience’s delight. Although the overall pace of the movie is calm and serene, the excitement caused by the periodic crises of the journey jolt one into a frenzy of jangled nerves.
But it is Pitt’s subdued performance that rivets our attention. He has mastered the ability to convey rage, sadness, melancholy and deep love by using only his facial muscles. For the most part, his head is enclosed in a space helmet, which gives him very little facial surface to act. It is a performance never before seen and one which will be remembered at Oscar® time.
Cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema has created a beautiful pastel look to the panorama of the Universe as well as the interior of the various space ships. Varying his camera angles to eliminate sameness in the scenes, he has kept interest in seeing close-ups of Pitt during the entire movie. Most actors would kill to get as many close-ups as Pitt, and many Hollywood actresses are probably now contemplating hari-kiri on their agents.
If you are a sci-fi fan and love complicated gadgets, rockets, switches and dials, this is a smorgasbord for you. This film ranks right up there with Stanley Kubrick’s iconic 2001: A Space Odyssey, which won the Oscar® for Best Visual Effects in 1968. That’s intoxicating company for sure.
Photos: 20th Century Fox/ Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Directed by James Gray
Genre: Sci-Fi/ Drama/ Adventure/ Thriller
Studio: 20th Century Fox/ Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Producers: Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, James Gray, Anthony Katagas, Rodrigo Teixeira, Arnon Milchan
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for some violence, bloody images, and brief strong language
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: Kevin Constant, Christa Munro, Alison Sadler, David Scott, Gary Warshaw
Budget: $87,500,000
Casting: Douglas Aibel
Cinematography: Hoyte Van Hoytema
Costumes: Albert Wolsky
Editing: John Axelrad, Lee Haugen
Languages: English, Japanese, Russian
Locations: Dumont Dunes, California,; Santa Clarita; Los Angeles
Music: Max Richter
Production Design: Kevin Thompson
Production dates: August 2017 to October 2017
Runtime: 122 minutes
Set Decoration: Karen O’Hara
Visual Effects: Moving Picture Company, Method Studios, Mr. X, Weta Digital, Brainstorm Digital, Capital T.
Writing Credits: James Gray, Ethan Gross
Cast:
Brad Pitt: Major Roy McBride, son of Clifford
Tommy Lee Jones: Clifford McBride
Liv Tyler: Eve McBride, Roy’s wife
Ruth Negga: Helen Lantos
Donald Sutherland: Colonel Pruitt
Lisa Gay Hamilton: Adjutant General Amelia Vogel
Jacob Sandler: Young Roy McBride
Jamie Kennedy: Peter Bello
John Finn: Stroud
Kimberly Elise: Lorraine Deavers
Bobby Nish: Franklin Yoshida
John Ortiz: General Rivas
Greg Bryk: Chip Garnes
Loren Dean: Donald Stanford
Donnie Keshawarz: Captain Lawrence Tanner
Anne McDaniels: Shunga Hologram
Kimmy Shields: Sergeant Romano
Danny Hamoule: Rory Flynn
Kayla Adams: Flight Attendant
Lawrence Dex: Robert
and
Natasha Lyonne
By James Colt Harrison
If there was ever a “star” vehicle, this is it. Brad Pitt grabs a hold of 20th Century Fox’s Ad Astra and dominates the screen in almost every scene. Shown in the IMAX process, the film gives him enormous closeups, we see and feel his emotions, we see tear drops fall from his eyes during tense and emotional scenes. This is Pitt’s moment; he is the ultimate star of the screen and, in this film, of the distant Heavens.
Director James Gray seemingly simply turned on the camera, focused on Pitts handsome and craggy face, and let him roll. That was a wise decision as Pitt quietly rivets the viewers’ attention on him and all that happens to him as he hurtles through space.
Why is he taking months to arrive at his destination? He’s on assignment as an American astronaut to investigate why electrical surges are disrupting things on earth. With life hanging in the balance, Pitt (Major Roy McBride) must find out what is causing the potential elimination of humans on earth. Authorities suspect it may be caused by Pitt’s missing father, scientist Clifford McBride (Tommy Lee Jones), an early pioneer who went into space years ago and was considered dead or missing. Now there are indications he may be alive and causing the experiments that threaten the entire solar system. Suspected to be hiding out on distant Neptune, Jones’ character is adamant about continuing to search for life on the distant planets.
Tommy Lee Jones is craggier than craggy and is believable as Pitt’s father. At age 72, and with Pitt at age 55, Jones’ Clifford McBride would have been 17 when he became Roy’s father. Awfully young, but he was always a pioneer in whatever he did.
The film is not without action, suspense, and chills. Hurtling through space has its dangers, and many are shown to the audience’s delight. Although the overall pace of the movie is calm and serene, the excitement caused by the periodic crises of the journey jolt one into a frenzy of jangled nerves.
But it is Pitt’s subdued performance that rivets our attention. He has mastered the ability to convey rage, sadness, melancholy and deep love by using only his facial muscles. For the most part, his head is enclosed in a space helmet, which gives him very little facial surface to act. It is a performance never before seen and one which will be remembered at Oscar® time.
Cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema has created a beautiful pastel look to the panorama of the Universe as well as the interior of the various space ships. Varying his camera angles to eliminate sameness in the scenes, he has kept interest in seeing close-ups of Pitt during the entire movie. Most actors would kill to get as many close-ups as Pitt, and many Hollywood actresses are probably now contemplating hari-kiri on their agents.
If you are a sci-fi fan and love complicated gadgets, rockets, switches and dials, this is a smorgasbord for you. This film ranks right up there with Stanley Kubrick’s iconic 2001: A Space Odyssey, which won the Oscar® for Best Visual Effects in 1968. That’s intoxicating company for sure.
Photos: 20th Century Fox/ Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Directed by James Gray
Genre: Sci-Fi/ Drama/ Adventure/ Thriller
Studio: 20th Century Fox/ Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Producers: Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, James Gray, Anthony Katagas, Rodrigo Teixeira, Arnon Milchan
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for some violence, bloody images, and brief strong language
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: Kevin Constant, Christa Munro, Alison Sadler, David Scott, Gary Warshaw
Budget: $87,500,000
Casting: Douglas Aibel
Cinematography: Hoyte Van Hoytema
Costumes: Albert Wolsky
Editing: John Axelrad, Lee Haugen
Languages: English, Japanese, Russian
Locations: Dumont Dunes, California,; Santa Clarita; Los Angeles
Music: Max Richter
Production Design: Kevin Thompson
Production dates: August 2017 to October 2017
Runtime: 122 minutes
Set Decoration: Karen O’Hara
Visual Effects: Moving Picture Company, Method Studios, Mr. X, Weta Digital, Brainstorm Digital, Capital T.
Writing Credits: James Gray, Ethan Gross
Cast:
Brad Pitt: Major Roy McBride, son of Clifford
Tommy Lee Jones: Clifford McBride
Liv Tyler: Eve McBride, Roy’s wife
Ruth Negga: Helen Lantos
Donald Sutherland: Colonel Pruitt
Lisa Gay Hamilton: Adjutant General Amelia Vogel
Jacob Sandler: Young Roy McBride
Jamie Kennedy: Peter Bello
John Finn: Stroud
Kimberly Elise: Lorraine Deavers
Bobby Nish: Franklin Yoshida
John Ortiz: General Rivas
Greg Bryk: Chip Garnes
Loren Dean: Donald Stanford
Donnie Keshawarz: Captain Lawrence Tanner
Anne McDaniels: Shunga Hologram
Kimmy Shields: Sergeant Romano
Danny Hamoule: Rory Flynn
Kayla Adams: Flight Attendant
Lawrence Dex: Robert
and
Natasha Lyonne
Movie Review:
By James Colt Harrison
“IT: Chapter 2”
Scares the Daylights Out of You
Oh, yummy, yummy! Pennywise, the evil clown is going to eat more little children! He’s going to slice them up, into little tidbits of kiddie flesh, in those shark-like, razor teeth of his. He doesn’t brush them - so there are bits of arms and legs, still clinging to the rotting residue, hanging like shredded curtains from his lips and bicuspids. He loves to smack his lips, and savor the flavor of virginal, ripped skin, squishing through his persimmon-colored gums, and dripping over his cherry red lips, awash in pure, untainted kiddie blood. The ecstacy! The joy of seeing their crimson-hued blood, oozing-out of their punctured veins, like a ripe naval orange, just plucked from the tee, and being squeezed like a boa constrictor’s prey. Oh, the sweet aroma!
Oh, the warm, dripping nectar!
We are introduced again to Stephen King’s deliciously evil clown Pennywise,
as adapted from his novel, in the new Warner Bros film by director Andy Muschietti, IT: CHAPTER 2. If running screaming from the theater is your thing, then we suggest you put on your running shoes now. Start warbling your voice for screams, for you will surely be running-up-and-down the scales at top volume. High C ... is probably the most effective ... and most shrill!
Pennywise (the marvelous, devilish young actor Bill Skarsgard), resurfaces every 27 years. The original gang of The Loser’s Club seriously injured Pennywise, and he needed to go into hibernation to regain his strength.
And, regain it he does! It’s time again, for him to terrorize the small town of Derry. All the original kids are grown up now, and are summoned to return to Derry, for a reunion ... and to kill off Pennywise. But, with all those horrible memories still haunting them ... will they return?
They foolishy return to town, and gather to plot their murdering scheme. Jessica Chastain plays the beautiful Beverly Marsh - essayed as a teen, by Sophia Lillis. Formerly fat and unlovable, Ben has transformed his body into a powerful, muscle-bound, hot young guy (as played by Jay Ryan). Comic Bill Hader, plays the loud-mouthed Los Angeles DJ Richie Tozier. He uses the
“F” word a little too often - and, it shows little imagination on the part
of the screenwriter.
All the original kids, reprise their roles, and reminds us again, who they were in the scheme. They look just as delicious to Pennywise, now that they are grownup - so, he is anticipating a lovely feast - perhaps, with a glass of Chardonay to wash them down.
The special effects have been cranked-up, and the scary parts positively shatter your nerves. Perhaps, it is too much, a little overdone, and overpowering to the plight of the characters. But everyone, gets his just deserts, especially Pennywise. He gets to lick his fingers a lot.
We get chills up-and-down-our-spine, when we hear the crunching and snapping of little bones, when Pennywise begins his gourmet feasts.
Push the little dears down into the sewer. Gobble, gobble, gobble. Ahhhh!
Photos: Warner Bros/ New Line Entertainment
Directed by Andy Muschietti
Genre: Horror/ Comedy
Studio: Warner Bros./ New Line Entertainment
Producers: Dan Lin, Roy Lee, Barbara Muschietti
MPAA Rating: R for disturbing violent content and bloody images throughout,
pervasive language, and some crude sexual material
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: Nigel Churcher
Casting: Rich Delia
Cinematography: Checco Varese
Costumes: Luis Sequeira
Editing: Jason Ballantine
Locations: Toronto, Vancouver, Canada; Chicago, Illinois, USA
Makeup: Linda Dowds, makeup artist for Jessica Chastain; Shane Zander, on-set prosthetic makeup effects key artist: Pennywise & additional characters
Music: Benjamin Wallfisch
Production Design: Paul D. Austerberry
Runtime: 169 minutes
Visual Effects: Rodeo FX; Method Studios; Atomic Arts
Writing Credits: Screenplay by Gary Dauberman; based on the novel by Stephen King
Cast:
Bill Skarsgard: Pennywise the Clown
Jessica Chastain: Beverly Marsh
Sophia Lillis: Young Beverly Marsh
James McAvoy: Bill Denbrough
Jaeden Martell: Young Bill Denbrough
Bill Hader: Richie Tozier
Finn Wolfhard: Young Richie Tozier
Isaiah Mustafa: Mike Hanlon, town librarian
Chosen Jacobs: Young Mike Hanlon
Jay Ryan: Ben Hanscom
Jeremy Ray Taylor: Young Ben Hanscom
James Ransome: Eddie Kaspbrak, hypochondriac
Jack Dylan Grazer: Young Eddie Kaspbrak
Andy Bean: Stanley Uris
Wyatt Oleff: Young Stanley Uris
Teach Grant: Henry Bowers, psychopath
Nicholas Hamilton: Young Henry Bowers
Javier Botet: Hobo/ The Witch
Xavier Dolan: Adrian Mellon, gay boy
Taylor Frey: Don Hagarty, Adrian’s boyfriend
Molly Atkinson: Myra
Joan Gregson: Mrs. Kersh, sweet, monstrous old lady
Genre: Horror/ Comedy
Studio: Warner Bros./ New Line Entertainment
Producers: Dan Lin, Roy Lee, Barbara Muschietti
MPAA Rating: R for disturbing violent content and bloody images throughout,
pervasive language, and some crude sexual material
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: Nigel Churcher
Casting: Rich Delia
Cinematography: Checco Varese
Costumes: Luis Sequeira
Editing: Jason Ballantine
Locations: Toronto, Vancouver, Canada; Chicago, Illinois, USA
Makeup: Linda Dowds, makeup artist for Jessica Chastain; Shane Zander, on-set prosthetic makeup effects key artist: Pennywise & additional characters
Music: Benjamin Wallfisch
Production Design: Paul D. Austerberry
Runtime: 169 minutes
Visual Effects: Rodeo FX; Method Studios; Atomic Arts
Writing Credits: Screenplay by Gary Dauberman; based on the novel by Stephen King
Cast:
Bill Skarsgard: Pennywise the Clown
Jessica Chastain: Beverly Marsh
Sophia Lillis: Young Beverly Marsh
James McAvoy: Bill Denbrough
Jaeden Martell: Young Bill Denbrough
Bill Hader: Richie Tozier
Finn Wolfhard: Young Richie Tozier
Isaiah Mustafa: Mike Hanlon, town librarian
Chosen Jacobs: Young Mike Hanlon
Jay Ryan: Ben Hanscom
Jeremy Ray Taylor: Young Ben Hanscom
James Ransome: Eddie Kaspbrak, hypochondriac
Jack Dylan Grazer: Young Eddie Kaspbrak
Andy Bean: Stanley Uris
Wyatt Oleff: Young Stanley Uris
Teach Grant: Henry Bowers, psychopath
Nicholas Hamilton: Young Henry Bowers
Javier Botet: Hobo/ The Witch
Xavier Dolan: Adrian Mellon, gay boy
Taylor Frey: Don Hagarty, Adrian’s boyfriend
Molly Atkinson: Myra
Joan Gregson: Mrs. Kersh, sweet, monstrous old lady
********
Movie Review:
By James Colt Harrison
Taken from a 2006 Danish film by Susanne Bier, the remake of AFTER the WEDDING switched the main characters from male=to-female. The Danish film, starred international actors Mads Mikkelson, Rolf Lassgard and Sidse Babett Knudsen. It was a great critical success, and was nominated for an Academy Award® as Best Foreign Film, as well as many European film awards.
When actress Julianne Moore and her husband, director Bart Freundlich, got the idea to remake it for an English language version, they re-imagined the original script by Susanne Bier and Anders Thomas Jenson, and added their own touches. By switching the main characters from male-to-female, it gave the story a new twist, and also an opportunity for Moore and Michelle Williams to chew the scenery.
Michelle Williams’ character of Isabel runs an orphanage in Calcutta, instead of in Mumbai, as in the original film. She has devoted her life to saving children’s lives, and has helped to clothe and feed them. The orphanage is going bankrupt ... and is rapidly running out of operational funds.
An interested donor in New York dangles a carrot over Isabel, and insists she come to the Big Apple, to discuss getting a generous greasing of her palms. Isabel hasn’t returned to the city in twenty years, as it seems to hold bad memories for her - but she relents, as she needs the money to keep the doors of the orphanage in India open. But why is she so reluctant to return?
Moore, plays the billionaire philanthropist, who is used to getting her way. She insists Isabel stay for the weekend, to attend her daughter’s wedding, and then they will sign the important papers to transfer the mega-tons of money to the orphanage. Moore plays a strong CEO-type, sometimes rude to her staff, and not showing much compassion to underlings. In a sense, she plays her character as an un-likeable twit on purpose. Her hairdresser on the film, has sabotaged her red tresses. Her hair is bedraggled, and unkempt looking. You would think a woman of her means, could afford a trip to the hair salon, and a little whipping up by a Vidal Sasson clone, who is dancing on balloons. Anyway, she manages to get Isabel to attend her daughter’s wedding at a very fancy garden party at the Oyster Bay mansion.
The daughter Grace is played by youngster Abby Quinn, who has a startling resemblance to Elijah Wood ... in drag. They must be related ... same face - although. her lipstick livens it up a bit. Amazing! Anyway, she’s not sure about marrying the very handsome Jonathan (Alex Esola), a toady in mother’s office. Ms. Quinn, although a little wet behind the ears, is a fine actress ... and handles her dramatic scenes like a pro!
Well, the interesting thing about the plot, is that we can’t give it away. Relationships arise we never dreamed about, entanglements surprise us, and plot twists twirl us around like a twizzle stick. It is fun trying to guess what happens next, and who does what to whom. Apparently, a lot happened years ago, that is now coming to fruition - and, what will it all mean for the future? Poor husband Oscar gets caught in the middle. He’s played to perfection, by the very capable Billy Crudup.
Two of Hollywood’s finest actresses vie for attention. Williams holds in her emotions. The simmering rage underneath is quite apparent - and, the audience will wonder ... why she doesn’t explode like a bad water heater? Julianne’s emoting is more obvious, as she has some attention-getting rages, crying jags, and sympathetic implosions. They could both be nominated for Oscars® next year.
If you are looking for a good, old-fashioned Hollywood-style drama, with lots of shrieking, crying, rages, and temper tantrums, this is for you. Remember Joan Crawford and Bette Davis pictures? It is not a story-book fairy tale, and is very adult in its theme. It is top dramatic fare!
When actress Julianne Moore and her husband, director Bart Freundlich, got the idea to remake it for an English language version, they re-imagined the original script by Susanne Bier and Anders Thomas Jenson, and added their own touches. By switching the main characters from male-to-female, it gave the story a new twist, and also an opportunity for Moore and Michelle Williams to chew the scenery.
Michelle Williams’ character of Isabel runs an orphanage in Calcutta, instead of in Mumbai, as in the original film. She has devoted her life to saving children’s lives, and has helped to clothe and feed them. The orphanage is going bankrupt ... and is rapidly running out of operational funds.
An interested donor in New York dangles a carrot over Isabel, and insists she come to the Big Apple, to discuss getting a generous greasing of her palms. Isabel hasn’t returned to the city in twenty years, as it seems to hold bad memories for her - but she relents, as she needs the money to keep the doors of the orphanage in India open. But why is she so reluctant to return?
Moore, plays the billionaire philanthropist, who is used to getting her way. She insists Isabel stay for the weekend, to attend her daughter’s wedding, and then they will sign the important papers to transfer the mega-tons of money to the orphanage. Moore plays a strong CEO-type, sometimes rude to her staff, and not showing much compassion to underlings. In a sense, she plays her character as an un-likeable twit on purpose. Her hairdresser on the film, has sabotaged her red tresses. Her hair is bedraggled, and unkempt looking. You would think a woman of her means, could afford a trip to the hair salon, and a little whipping up by a Vidal Sasson clone, who is dancing on balloons. Anyway, she manages to get Isabel to attend her daughter’s wedding at a very fancy garden party at the Oyster Bay mansion.
The daughter Grace is played by youngster Abby Quinn, who has a startling resemblance to Elijah Wood ... in drag. They must be related ... same face - although. her lipstick livens it up a bit. Amazing! Anyway, she’s not sure about marrying the very handsome Jonathan (Alex Esola), a toady in mother’s office. Ms. Quinn, although a little wet behind the ears, is a fine actress ... and handles her dramatic scenes like a pro!
Well, the interesting thing about the plot, is that we can’t give it away. Relationships arise we never dreamed about, entanglements surprise us, and plot twists twirl us around like a twizzle stick. It is fun trying to guess what happens next, and who does what to whom. Apparently, a lot happened years ago, that is now coming to fruition - and, what will it all mean for the future? Poor husband Oscar gets caught in the middle. He’s played to perfection, by the very capable Billy Crudup.
Two of Hollywood’s finest actresses vie for attention. Williams holds in her emotions. The simmering rage underneath is quite apparent - and, the audience will wonder ... why she doesn’t explode like a bad water heater? Julianne’s emoting is more obvious, as she has some attention-getting rages, crying jags, and sympathetic implosions. They could both be nominated for Oscars® next year.
If you are looking for a good, old-fashioned Hollywood-style drama, with lots of shrieking, crying, rages, and temper tantrums, this is for you. Remember Joan Crawford and Bette Davis pictures? It is not a story-book fairy tale, and is very adult in its theme. It is top dramatic fare!
From - NY Times Review
(Photos: Sony Pictures Classics/ Ingenious Media)
Director: Bart Freundlich
Genre: Drama
Studio: Sony Pictures Classics/ Ingenious Media
Producers: Julianne Moore, Bart Freundlich, Joel B. Michaels, Harry Finkel, Silvio Muraglia
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for thematic material and some strong language
Our Rating: B+
Art Direction: Starlet Jacobs, Cat Novarro
Casting: Douglas Aibel, Henry Russell Bergstein
Cinematography: Julio Macat
Costumes: Arjun Bhasin
Editing: Joseph Krings
Location: New York City; Calcutta, India; Oyster Bay, New York
Music: Mychael Danna
Production Company: Ingenious Media, Cornerstone Films, Rock Island Films, A Joel B. Michaels Production
Production Design: Grace Yun
Runtime: 110 minutes
Writing Credits: Susanne Bier, Bart Freundlich: Original Screenplay; Anders Thomas Jensen: Original Screenplay
Cast:
Julianne Moore: Theresa
Michelle Williams: Isabel
Billy Crudup: Oscar
Abby Quinn: Grace
Alex Esola: Jonathan, Grace’s husband
Will Chase: Frank
Susan Blackwell: Gwen
Doris McCarthy: Jonathan’s grandmother
Vir Pachisia: Jai, little Indian orphan boy
Amelia Workman: Hotel Manager
********
Movie Review:
|
“Peanut Butter
|
By James Colt Harrison
|
The sweet nature of PEANUT BUTTER FALCON will appeal to everyone with a heart. The winner of the prestigious Audience Award for Narrative Spotlight at the SXSW Film Festival of 2019 - theater-goers stand-up and cheered at the end of advanced screenings.
That rascal of an actor, Shia LaBeouf, shows he’s human, in his portrayal of a rebel outlaw, in this tale of love, adventure, friendship, and caring. LaBeouf, adding to his legendary rebellious nature, was arrested for public drunkeness, while making the film in Savannah. The incident only enhanced his already bad-boy image. It’s perfect for the part of Tyler in the film.
La Boeuf’s Tyler, is a down and out fisherman, who is on the ropes financially, and can’t make a living. He steals other people’s lobster traps, and gets into a battle with ornery Duncan, sort of the lord of the docks. Duncan is played by the excellent John Hawkes (Oscar® nominated as Best Supporting Actor for WINTER’S BONE, 2010, and a regular on TV’s “Deadwood”). Duncan is “meaner than a junk-yard dog,” as sung by Jim Croce on ”Bad Bad Leroy Brown.” He’s out to get Tyler, and he means to kill him. Hawkes has the perfect, mean-looking face - with a witch-like nose that scares you ... Grrrr!
Zak (Zack Gottsagen, 22), is a real young man in his early twenties, with 'Down Syndrome', who hates being in a confined medical facility, where lovely Eleanor (a charming Dakota Johnson) looks after him. Zak’s room-mate, is the mischievous and cantankerous old coot Carl, played by actor Bruce Dern, with his usual zest. Dern, is making a career out of playing nutty old guys, as in the recent ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD. He bonds with Zak, and helps him achieve some freedom. Zak, manages to get out of the facility, and is on his way to see his hero, TV wrestler Salt Water Redneck (a hilarious Thomas Haden Church). He wants to learn to wrestle by his hero.
The two mismatched renegades, meet in the swamps of Savannah, and Zak attaches himself to Tyler. Naturally, Tyler doesn’t want anything to do with Zak, and doesn’t need a companion. He’s on the run ... and doesn’t want Zak to drag him down.
Impossible to get rid of, Zak becomes a buddy, and Tyler, shows a warm side to his gruff exterior by taking Zak under his wing. The two bond like brothers. Tyler teaches Zak to swim, and the two guys have a great time together. Zak is especially endearing, and is frequently funny and aware. Tyler is the big brother Zak never had ... as his family abandoned him. The two might be on the lam, but that won’t prevent them from “living.”
Dakota Johnson has the tough role of being authoritative with Zak, and yet sympathetic to his plight. She does show a heart, and genuinely loves Zak, despite his will to leave the medical facility where Eleanor is in charge of him. Johnson, 29, redeems herself from her dreadful role in the FIFTY SHADES OF GREY potboilers.
Shia LaBoeuf shines in his role of the gruffly handsome Tyler. He emerges as a leading man for sure, as his charismas vibrates through his torn t-shirts and raggedy shorts. He’s catnip to the ladies, and it is apparent he will emerge as a top choice for romantic roles in the future. He’s up for action as well, and this film provides plenty of intrigue and excitement, as the Huckleberry Finn characters go on the road. Will they get away from their hunters and survive? We can’t reveal the ending - but, we can say this ... is the feel-good movie of the year!
That rascal of an actor, Shia LaBeouf, shows he’s human, in his portrayal of a rebel outlaw, in this tale of love, adventure, friendship, and caring. LaBeouf, adding to his legendary rebellious nature, was arrested for public drunkeness, while making the film in Savannah. The incident only enhanced his already bad-boy image. It’s perfect for the part of Tyler in the film.
La Boeuf’s Tyler, is a down and out fisherman, who is on the ropes financially, and can’t make a living. He steals other people’s lobster traps, and gets into a battle with ornery Duncan, sort of the lord of the docks. Duncan is played by the excellent John Hawkes (Oscar® nominated as Best Supporting Actor for WINTER’S BONE, 2010, and a regular on TV’s “Deadwood”). Duncan is “meaner than a junk-yard dog,” as sung by Jim Croce on ”Bad Bad Leroy Brown.” He’s out to get Tyler, and he means to kill him. Hawkes has the perfect, mean-looking face - with a witch-like nose that scares you ... Grrrr!
Zak (Zack Gottsagen, 22), is a real young man in his early twenties, with 'Down Syndrome', who hates being in a confined medical facility, where lovely Eleanor (a charming Dakota Johnson) looks after him. Zak’s room-mate, is the mischievous and cantankerous old coot Carl, played by actor Bruce Dern, with his usual zest. Dern, is making a career out of playing nutty old guys, as in the recent ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD. He bonds with Zak, and helps him achieve some freedom. Zak, manages to get out of the facility, and is on his way to see his hero, TV wrestler Salt Water Redneck (a hilarious Thomas Haden Church). He wants to learn to wrestle by his hero.
The two mismatched renegades, meet in the swamps of Savannah, and Zak attaches himself to Tyler. Naturally, Tyler doesn’t want anything to do with Zak, and doesn’t need a companion. He’s on the run ... and doesn’t want Zak to drag him down.
Impossible to get rid of, Zak becomes a buddy, and Tyler, shows a warm side to his gruff exterior by taking Zak under his wing. The two bond like brothers. Tyler teaches Zak to swim, and the two guys have a great time together. Zak is especially endearing, and is frequently funny and aware. Tyler is the big brother Zak never had ... as his family abandoned him. The two might be on the lam, but that won’t prevent them from “living.”
Dakota Johnson has the tough role of being authoritative with Zak, and yet sympathetic to his plight. She does show a heart, and genuinely loves Zak, despite his will to leave the medical facility where Eleanor is in charge of him. Johnson, 29, redeems herself from her dreadful role in the FIFTY SHADES OF GREY potboilers.
Shia LaBoeuf shines in his role of the gruffly handsome Tyler. He emerges as a leading man for sure, as his charismas vibrates through his torn t-shirts and raggedy shorts. He’s catnip to the ladies, and it is apparent he will emerge as a top choice for romantic roles in the future. He’s up for action as well, and this film provides plenty of intrigue and excitement, as the Huckleberry Finn characters go on the road. Will they get away from their hunters and survive? We can’t reveal the ending - but, we can say this ... is the feel-good movie of the year!
(Photos: Roadside Attractions)
Directed by Tyler Nilson, Michael Schwartz
Genre: Comedy/ Adventure
Studio: Roadside Attractions
Producers: Albert Berger, Christopher Lemole, Lije Sarki, David Thies, Ron Yerxa, Tim Zajaros
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Our Rating: B+
Cinematography: Nigel Bluck
Costumes: Melisa Walker
Editing: Nat Fuller, KevinTent
Location: Savannah, Georgia
Music: Zachary Dawes, Noam Pikeiny, Jonathan Sadoff, Gabe Witcher
Production Company: Armory Films, 1993, Lucky Treehouse
Production Design: Gabrael Wilson
Runtime: 93 minutes
Special Effects; Jeffrey G. Wicker
Stunts: David Anthony Buglione, stunt double for Jon Bernthal;
Max Calder, stunt double for Thomas Haden Church; Robbie Cox & Niko Dalman, stunt doubles for Shia LaBeouf
Writing Credits: Tyler Nilson & Michael Schwartz
Cast:
Shia LaBeouf: Tyler
Dakota Johnson: Eleanor
Zack Gottsagen: Zak
John Hawkes: Duncan
Thomas Haden Church: Salt Water Redneck
Bruce Dern: Carl
Jon Bernthal: Mark
Yelawolf: Ratboy
Jake Roberts: Sam
Mike Foley: Jacob
Mark Helms: Trucker with dog
Susan McPhail: Diner Waitress
********
Movie Review:
“Aquarela” ... is awash in excitement !
By James Colt Harrison
Exquisitely beautiful, exciting, dangerous and terrifying, are inadequate words to describe Russia Director Viktor Kossakovsky’s stunning documentary feature AQUARELA.
Exquisitely beautiful, exciting, dangerous and terrifying, are inadequate words to describe Russia Director Viktor Kossakovsky’s stunning documentary feature AQUARELA.
Almost a travelogue in structure, the director trains his camera on various natural phenomenon around the world. Focusing on water, and its important part in our lives, Kossakovsky’s cameras show us the beauty, the power, and the destruction that water can cause. While being a necessary part of every human’s existence, water can also destroy forests, shorelines, and habitats, as well as bring life, nourish crops to feed us, and provide us recreational possibilities. Is water a friend or a foe? It’s both!
Kossakovsky and his fellow cameraman, 28 year-old German Ben Bernhard, took many chances, and put themselves in danger, to capture the exciting shots of a raging ocean, with seemingly 100 foot waves, about to capsize them and their tiny boat. The boat is captained by two experienced sailors. One is a diminutive woman named Hayat Mokhenache, and the other is Peter Madej - both, veterans of many ocean crossings ... during wicked storms.
The film has no narrative and very little dialogue. The early scenes at Lake Baikal, have some Russian dialogue, when residents crazily drive their cars across the frozen lake ... and capsize through the ice. Madness, you say! It’s a sport there, and they are warned that the ice is melting earlier than usual. A portent of things to come during climate change?
To those of us who have never been to Greenland, some of the most fascinating scenes were filmed there, to show us the life of icebergs. When an iceberg cracks and begins to fall apart, it is called “calving.” The groans and whiplash cracking can split an eardrum. To see giant chunks of ice split away from the “mother” berg is awesome, to quote our youngsters today. These are not simply small pieces of ice. They can be hundreds of feet high - like giant skyscrapers in the snow, or complete islands breaking away and plunging into the water. The splashing into the ocean, can create huge waves like a tsunami, and engulf any boat floating nearby.
The cameras, capture the rage of the wind during a hurricane in Florida, and the destructive waters that swamp whole towns, during a flood in South America. A flying trip to the magnificent 2,368 foot-high Angel Falls in Venezuela, captures its majesty and muscle. Water is, indeed, a necessity for life on earth - but, we must respect it and treat it carefully.
The visuals on this film, are one of the most beautiful ever seen on screen. It’s Oscar® - worthy cinematography for sure. The colors are like a rainbow - the clarity of the shots over the shimmering icebergs shakes us to our core. The black of the ocean, during a storm, scares the daylights out of us. Everyone concerned, about the health of our planet, and the purity of our water, should see this film. It reminds us to take care of our planet ... before it’s too late to inhabit.
This is a beautiful and magnificently photographed film and is not to be missed.
Kossakovsky and his fellow cameraman, 28 year-old German Ben Bernhard, took many chances, and put themselves in danger, to capture the exciting shots of a raging ocean, with seemingly 100 foot waves, about to capsize them and their tiny boat. The boat is captained by two experienced sailors. One is a diminutive woman named Hayat Mokhenache, and the other is Peter Madej - both, veterans of many ocean crossings ... during wicked storms.
The film has no narrative and very little dialogue. The early scenes at Lake Baikal, have some Russian dialogue, when residents crazily drive their cars across the frozen lake ... and capsize through the ice. Madness, you say! It’s a sport there, and they are warned that the ice is melting earlier than usual. A portent of things to come during climate change?
To those of us who have never been to Greenland, some of the most fascinating scenes were filmed there, to show us the life of icebergs. When an iceberg cracks and begins to fall apart, it is called “calving.” The groans and whiplash cracking can split an eardrum. To see giant chunks of ice split away from the “mother” berg is awesome, to quote our youngsters today. These are not simply small pieces of ice. They can be hundreds of feet high - like giant skyscrapers in the snow, or complete islands breaking away and plunging into the water. The splashing into the ocean, can create huge waves like a tsunami, and engulf any boat floating nearby.
The cameras, capture the rage of the wind during a hurricane in Florida, and the destructive waters that swamp whole towns, during a flood in South America. A flying trip to the magnificent 2,368 foot-high Angel Falls in Venezuela, captures its majesty and muscle. Water is, indeed, a necessity for life on earth - but, we must respect it and treat it carefully.
The visuals on this film, are one of the most beautiful ever seen on screen. It’s Oscar® - worthy cinematography for sure. The colors are like a rainbow - the clarity of the shots over the shimmering icebergs shakes us to our core. The black of the ocean, during a storm, scares the daylights out of us. Everyone concerned, about the health of our planet, and the purity of our water, should see this film. It reminds us to take care of our planet ... before it’s too late to inhabit.
This is a beautiful and magnificently photographed film and is not to be missed.
(Photos: Sony Pictures Classics)
Director: Viktor Kossakovsky
Genre: Documentary/ Nature/ Water
Studio: Sony Pictures Classics/Danish Documentary Production
Producers: Danny Glover, Heino Deckert, Sigrid Dyekjaer, Susan Rockefeller, Aimara Reques, others
MPAA Rating: PG for some thematic elements
Our Rating: A
Budget: $2,600,000
Cinematography: Ben Bernhard, Viktor Kossakovsky
Editing: Viktor Kossakovsky, Molly Malene Stensgaard, Ainara Vera
Locations: Angel Falls, Venezuela; Greenland; Lake Baikal, Russia; Miami, Florida; Siberia, Russia
Music: Eicca Toppinen
Production Management: Martin Schluter
Runtime: 89 minutes
Director: Viktor Kossakovsky
Genre: Documentary/ Nature/ Water
Studio: Sony Pictures Classics/Danish Documentary Production
Producers: Danny Glover, Heino Deckert, Sigrid Dyekjaer, Susan Rockefeller, Aimara Reques, others
MPAA Rating: PG for some thematic elements
Our Rating: A
Budget: $2,600,000
Cinematography: Ben Bernhard, Viktor Kossakovsky
Editing: Viktor Kossakovsky, Molly Malene Stensgaard, Ainara Vera
Locations: Angel Falls, Venezuela; Greenland; Lake Baikal, Russia; Miami, Florida; Siberia, Russia
Music: Eicca Toppinen
Production Management: Martin Schluter
Runtime: 89 minutes
********
Film Review:
Shaw & Hobbs "FAST & FURIOUS"
By James Colt Harrison
Universal PIctures has reaped a bonanza with the FAST AND FURIOUS franchise over the years. Original series star and producer Vin Diesel announced way back in 2015, that there might be a spin-off of the series. Work was begun on fashioning a story for the Hobbs and Shaw characters in October of 2017. Diesel would not be part of the new story.
Universal PIctures has reaped a bonanza with the FAST AND FURIOUS franchise over the years. Original series star and producer Vin Diesel announced way back in 2015, that there might be a spin-off of the series. Work was begun on fashioning a story for the Hobbs and Shaw characters in October of 2017. Diesel would not be part of the new story.
Popular action stars Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham would take roles as lawman Luke Hobbs and outcast renegade Deckard Shaw respectively. A match made in Heaven, as the two men are no strangers to fighting, mayhem and cracking heads like eggs. They thrive on it. So why not put them together where they can do twice as much damage?
Although some of the film was shot on the large Stage 25 at Universal Studios in Hollywood, the lot wasn’t big enough to contain all the action that director David Leitch had planned. The production moved to England, where many scenes were shot on the streets of London, and at the big Shepperton Studios complex. When London got too small, the entire unit and stars moved up to Glasgow, Scotland, where they could do more demolition ... more destruction! more damage! ... and more mayhem! They loved it ... and so do we!
Is there anything more exciting than watching Jason Statham’s or Dwayne Johnson’s bicep muscles expand and contract - as they are pummeling someone’s face into tomato sauce? Former rivals, the two bruisers combine forces to combat evil ... what else? ... and save the world from destruction. Where have we heard that before??!! The amusing twist is, that the two don’t get along ... and approach their demolition duties in a different way.
The script, by Chris Morgan and Drew Pearce, adds a great deal of humor and verbal sparring between Hobbs and Shaw to relieve the relentless action scenes. Johnson is such an appealing actor, and more or less loveable, that his humor is derived from his good nature. Statham is not generally known as a comedian, but he handles his funny lines well, and adds to the fun between the two. It’s not all action, and there is a lot of fun in the movie.
A deadly virus has been invented that could destroy all of humanity. Professor ANDREIKO (Eddie Marsan) has invented the virus only for good purposes and to combat evil-doers. Alas, the virus is a highly-in-demand force of destruction, and the evil Brixton, a newly re-conditioned human/robot, has been programmed to obtain the virus at any cost. Played effectively by the strappingly-built Idris Elba, he will stop at nothing to get the vial of the virus out of the hands of Hobbs & Shaw. Being partly a machine, he is difficult to dent, slice, hobble, shred, implode, crumple and/or eliminate!
Thrown into the mix, and to complicate the relationships even more than usual, Shaws’ sister Hattie, dispatches opponents easier, faster, and more effectively! She’s a bad one, that gal! She is played by British actress Vanessa Kirby, 31, (Winner of the BAFTA for Best Actress as Princess Margaret in “The Crown”). She adds a great feminine touch to the shenanigans - and proves she is just as able as the men.
Oscar® winner Helen Mirren comes in for a very funny cameo as Shaw’s incarcerated mother. Mirren affects an hilarious Cockney accent, while appearing to be a very glamorous fashion model in jail.
A nice twist is that Johnson’s character of Hobbs returns to his roots in Samoa to wrap up the adventure. It is rumored Johnson hired 300 of his real cousins, to act as extras, in the tropical island scenes. Actress Lori Pelenise Tuisano plays Hobbs’ hilariously commanding mother. Joe “Roman Reigns” Anoa’i, the professional wrestler, takes part in the exciting Samoan scenes, and leads all the relatives and townspeople on a “native” warpath to quickly defend their island and “big brother” Hobbs.
It is one exciting adventure for both the actors and the audience. It is not to be missed, if you like to have your heart rate exceed the legal limit ... You’ll die laughing!
Although some of the film was shot on the large Stage 25 at Universal Studios in Hollywood, the lot wasn’t big enough to contain all the action that director David Leitch had planned. The production moved to England, where many scenes were shot on the streets of London, and at the big Shepperton Studios complex. When London got too small, the entire unit and stars moved up to Glasgow, Scotland, where they could do more demolition ... more destruction! more damage! ... and more mayhem! They loved it ... and so do we!
Is there anything more exciting than watching Jason Statham’s or Dwayne Johnson’s bicep muscles expand and contract - as they are pummeling someone’s face into tomato sauce? Former rivals, the two bruisers combine forces to combat evil ... what else? ... and save the world from destruction. Where have we heard that before??!! The amusing twist is, that the two don’t get along ... and approach their demolition duties in a different way.
The script, by Chris Morgan and Drew Pearce, adds a great deal of humor and verbal sparring between Hobbs and Shaw to relieve the relentless action scenes. Johnson is such an appealing actor, and more or less loveable, that his humor is derived from his good nature. Statham is not generally known as a comedian, but he handles his funny lines well, and adds to the fun between the two. It’s not all action, and there is a lot of fun in the movie.
A deadly virus has been invented that could destroy all of humanity. Professor ANDREIKO (Eddie Marsan) has invented the virus only for good purposes and to combat evil-doers. Alas, the virus is a highly-in-demand force of destruction, and the evil Brixton, a newly re-conditioned human/robot, has been programmed to obtain the virus at any cost. Played effectively by the strappingly-built Idris Elba, he will stop at nothing to get the vial of the virus out of the hands of Hobbs & Shaw. Being partly a machine, he is difficult to dent, slice, hobble, shred, implode, crumple and/or eliminate!
Thrown into the mix, and to complicate the relationships even more than usual, Shaws’ sister Hattie, dispatches opponents easier, faster, and more effectively! She’s a bad one, that gal! She is played by British actress Vanessa Kirby, 31, (Winner of the BAFTA for Best Actress as Princess Margaret in “The Crown”). She adds a great feminine touch to the shenanigans - and proves she is just as able as the men.
Oscar® winner Helen Mirren comes in for a very funny cameo as Shaw’s incarcerated mother. Mirren affects an hilarious Cockney accent, while appearing to be a very glamorous fashion model in jail.
A nice twist is that Johnson’s character of Hobbs returns to his roots in Samoa to wrap up the adventure. It is rumored Johnson hired 300 of his real cousins, to act as extras, in the tropical island scenes. Actress Lori Pelenise Tuisano plays Hobbs’ hilariously commanding mother. Joe “Roman Reigns” Anoa’i, the professional wrestler, takes part in the exciting Samoan scenes, and leads all the relatives and townspeople on a “native” warpath to quickly defend their island and “big brother” Hobbs.
It is one exciting adventure for both the actors and the audience. It is not to be missed, if you like to have your heart rate exceed the legal limit ... You’ll die laughing!
(Photos Universal Pictures - HOBBS & SHAW)
Director: David Leitch
Genre: Action/ Adventure
Studio: Universal Pictures
Producers: Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, Kathy Chasen-Hay, Steven Chasman, Ainsley Davies, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, Debra James, Viet Luu, Kelly McCormick, Chris Morgan, Ethan Smith
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for prolonged sequences of action and violence, suggestive material and some strong language
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: David Allday, Will Coulbrough, Dominic Hyman, Choi Ho Man, Wolfgang Metschan, Nicolas Plotquin, Remo Tozzi
Budget: $200,000,000
Casting By: Lucy Bevan, Marisol Roncali, Mary Vernieu
Cinematography: Jonathan Sela
Costumes: Sarah Evelyn
Editing: Christian Wagner, Elisabet Ronaldsdottir
Language: English
Locations: Stage 25, Universal Studios, Hollywood; Shepperton Studios, London, England; Glasgow, Scotland
Makeup: Jordann Aguon, makeup artist; Alessandro, Makeup & Hair Designer; Rachel Solow, barber to Dwayne Johnson; Jojo Williams: personal makeup artist to Idris Elba
Music: Tyler Bates
Production Company: Seven Bucks Productions, Chris Morgan Productions
Production Dates: September 10, 2018 to January 27, 2019.
Production Design: David Scheunemann
Release Date: 2 August 2019
Runtime: 135 minutes
Set Decoration: Lisa Chugg, Jeffrey Kushon, Shane Vieau
Sound Mix: Dolby Atmos, DTS, Dolby Surround 7.1, Auro 11.1
Soundtrack: “Even If I Die,” performed by Idris Elba, featuring Cypress Hill, 7 Wallace Records, Remix by Hybrid
Special Effects: Double Negative
Visual Effects: DNEG, Framestore
Writing Credits: Chris Morgan, story by; Chris Morgan, screenplay by; based on characters created by Gary Scott Thompson; and screenplay by Drew Pearce
Cast:
Dwayne Johnson: Hobbs
Jason Statham: Shaw
Idris Elba: Brixton
Vanessa Kirby: Hattie, Agent MI6 & Shaw’s sister
Helen Mirren: Magdalene Shaw
Eiza Gonzalez: Madame M
Eddie Marsan: Professor Andreiko
Eliana Sua: Sam
Cliff Curtis: Jonah
Lori Pelenise Tuisano: Sefina
John Tui: Kal
Joshua Mauga: Timo
Joe Anoa’i: Mateo
Rob Delaney: Agent Loeb
Alex King: Lt. Grapefruit
Tom Wu: Tsoi
John Macdonald: Lermetov
Lucy McCormick: L.A. Waitress
and
Kevin Hart and Ryan Reynolds
Director: David Leitch
Genre: Action/ Adventure
Studio: Universal Pictures
Producers: Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, Kathy Chasen-Hay, Steven Chasman, Ainsley Davies, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, Debra James, Viet Luu, Kelly McCormick, Chris Morgan, Ethan Smith
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for prolonged sequences of action and violence, suggestive material and some strong language
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: David Allday, Will Coulbrough, Dominic Hyman, Choi Ho Man, Wolfgang Metschan, Nicolas Plotquin, Remo Tozzi
Budget: $200,000,000
Casting By: Lucy Bevan, Marisol Roncali, Mary Vernieu
Cinematography: Jonathan Sela
Costumes: Sarah Evelyn
Editing: Christian Wagner, Elisabet Ronaldsdottir
Language: English
Locations: Stage 25, Universal Studios, Hollywood; Shepperton Studios, London, England; Glasgow, Scotland
Makeup: Jordann Aguon, makeup artist; Alessandro, Makeup & Hair Designer; Rachel Solow, barber to Dwayne Johnson; Jojo Williams: personal makeup artist to Idris Elba
Music: Tyler Bates
Production Company: Seven Bucks Productions, Chris Morgan Productions
Production Dates: September 10, 2018 to January 27, 2019.
Production Design: David Scheunemann
Release Date: 2 August 2019
Runtime: 135 minutes
Set Decoration: Lisa Chugg, Jeffrey Kushon, Shane Vieau
Sound Mix: Dolby Atmos, DTS, Dolby Surround 7.1, Auro 11.1
Soundtrack: “Even If I Die,” performed by Idris Elba, featuring Cypress Hill, 7 Wallace Records, Remix by Hybrid
Special Effects: Double Negative
Visual Effects: DNEG, Framestore
Writing Credits: Chris Morgan, story by; Chris Morgan, screenplay by; based on characters created by Gary Scott Thompson; and screenplay by Drew Pearce
Cast:
Dwayne Johnson: Hobbs
Jason Statham: Shaw
Idris Elba: Brixton
Vanessa Kirby: Hattie, Agent MI6 & Shaw’s sister
Helen Mirren: Magdalene Shaw
Eiza Gonzalez: Madame M
Eddie Marsan: Professor Andreiko
Eliana Sua: Sam
Cliff Curtis: Jonah
Lori Pelenise Tuisano: Sefina
John Tui: Kal
Joshua Mauga: Timo
Joe Anoa’i: Mateo
Rob Delaney: Agent Loeb
Alex King: Lt. Grapefruit
Tom Wu: Tsoi
John Macdonald: Lermetov
Lucy McCormick: L.A. Waitress
and
Kevin Hart and Ryan Reynolds
********
Film Review:
By James Colt Harrison
Nothing in Hollywood is real. It is all based on fantasy, subterfuge, smoke and mirrors, and imagination. Thus, Director Quentin Tarantino’s smashing new film ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD, is really a fairy tale, much in the manner of what Walt Disney may have conjured up for a semi-true Hollywood story. There is even a Cinderella in the form of real-life movie star Sharon Tate (essayed by beautiful Margot Robbie).
This is not the tale of Cinderella, but a scaringly close re-imagining of the Charles Manson murders that happened in the Hollywood hills in 1969. Intertwined with this gothic modern tale of mayhem and murder, is the tale of television star Rick Dalton. He’s a formerly big, big star now on the skids, on his way down to appearing in grade Z television roles, as Hollywood is changing drastically. He was once on top, the greatest, in big series and movies. Females were all crazy for him ... and a few males, too.
Leonardo DiCaprio has his best role in several years as Dalton. Still devastatingly handsome, he easily takes on the mantle of the slowly fading actor, who still has charisma - but has terrific doubts about his abilities and staying power. Desperately in need of psychotherapy, he crumbles and cries, and pounds his fists through tables in a terrible anxiety, about his talent being whisked away without his consent.
In the best scene in the movie, DiCaprio is consoled by 8 year-old actress Julia Butters (of “American Housewife” fame). She is calm, and almost motherly, in calming DiCaprio’s nerves about their next scene together. Little Miss Butters is already a scene-stealer - and one can only imagine, what acting prowess she will have when she’s Helen Mirren’s age! She’s one of the few acting children, we haven’t wanted to strangle for being “precious.” It’s a turn that should be recognized come Oscar® time!
Brad Pitt has survived some rough times in his life - but, when he takes off his shirt in a gratuitous scene for the ladies, we see that he still is sporting the same abs that knocked everybody out in THELMA and LOUISE. True, they have gathered some patina over the years - but hey, the guy is in his 50s and looks great! He plays DiCaprio’s buddy, sidekick, sounding-board, and stunt man. He’s also a bit on the skids, and works as DiCaprio’s “go-fer” in between film jobs. Pitt plays Cliff Booth in a typically California “laid-back” style, complete with a yellow Hawaiian shirt and cowboy boots. It’s not easy for an actor, to make it look like he’s doing nothing, but Pitt is so good at his role, that he seems so natural, and so “California”, that we believe him every step of the way. He wallops with a powerful punch - so that we believe he is a strong-man stunt guy.
Pitt’s outstanding and memorable scene, is in a confrontation with cocky martial arts actor Bruce Lee, played stunningly by newcomer Mike Moh. Both actors, want to prove who has the biggest body part - so the two go at it in a fabulously exciting fight scene with no holds barred. Moh is an American-born Asian, who lies in Wisconsin. He has a black belt in Taekwondo. Pitt more than holds his own in the battle with Bruce Lee!
The fairytale aspect of Tarantino’s film folds the story of the infamous Charles Manson murders into the story. As it actually happened in 1969, it is intriguing how that story from the daily headlines, is enfolded into the story of Hollywood - like an egg folded into a cake batter. We can’t give it away the way it is done - but it is chilling, funny, and unexpected!
The casting of actors is terrific. Young Austin Butler plays Tex, the murderous member of Manson’s gang, who pals around with Squeeky Fromme, played by an unrecognizable Dakota Fanning! Bruce Dern does another unforgettable cameo as George Spahn, the sleepy owner of the Spahn Movie Ranch, where the Manson gang hung out. Handsome Timothy Olyphant is a dead ringer for actor James Stacy of the 60s. Other iconic stars making impressions are Brenda Vaccaro, Clu Gulager, Lena Dunham, Luke Perry, Scoot McNairy, Rumer Willis, Michael Madson, and Emile Hirsch, playing the unfortunate ... murdered Jay Sebring.
In the beginning, it is not apparent all the diverse storylines have any connection whatsoever - but Tarantino, slowly weaves a tightening spider web of intrigue, that meshes into a knock-out climax you least expect. Tarantino is more sly than we are - and he surprises us with his clever directing and script-writing. It’s a picture not to be missed - but, you must have an open mind about the story content.
By James Colt Harrison
Nothing in Hollywood is real. It is all based on fantasy, subterfuge, smoke and mirrors, and imagination. Thus, Director Quentin Tarantino’s smashing new film ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD, is really a fairy tale, much in the manner of what Walt Disney may have conjured up for a semi-true Hollywood story. There is even a Cinderella in the form of real-life movie star Sharon Tate (essayed by beautiful Margot Robbie).
This is not the tale of Cinderella, but a scaringly close re-imagining of the Charles Manson murders that happened in the Hollywood hills in 1969. Intertwined with this gothic modern tale of mayhem and murder, is the tale of television star Rick Dalton. He’s a formerly big, big star now on the skids, on his way down to appearing in grade Z television roles, as Hollywood is changing drastically. He was once on top, the greatest, in big series and movies. Females were all crazy for him ... and a few males, too.
Leonardo DiCaprio has his best role in several years as Dalton. Still devastatingly handsome, he easily takes on the mantle of the slowly fading actor, who still has charisma - but has terrific doubts about his abilities and staying power. Desperately in need of psychotherapy, he crumbles and cries, and pounds his fists through tables in a terrible anxiety, about his talent being whisked away without his consent.
In the best scene in the movie, DiCaprio is consoled by 8 year-old actress Julia Butters (of “American Housewife” fame). She is calm, and almost motherly, in calming DiCaprio’s nerves about their next scene together. Little Miss Butters is already a scene-stealer - and one can only imagine, what acting prowess she will have when she’s Helen Mirren’s age! She’s one of the few acting children, we haven’t wanted to strangle for being “precious.” It’s a turn that should be recognized come Oscar® time!
Brad Pitt has survived some rough times in his life - but, when he takes off his shirt in a gratuitous scene for the ladies, we see that he still is sporting the same abs that knocked everybody out in THELMA and LOUISE. True, they have gathered some patina over the years - but hey, the guy is in his 50s and looks great! He plays DiCaprio’s buddy, sidekick, sounding-board, and stunt man. He’s also a bit on the skids, and works as DiCaprio’s “go-fer” in between film jobs. Pitt plays Cliff Booth in a typically California “laid-back” style, complete with a yellow Hawaiian shirt and cowboy boots. It’s not easy for an actor, to make it look like he’s doing nothing, but Pitt is so good at his role, that he seems so natural, and so “California”, that we believe him every step of the way. He wallops with a powerful punch - so that we believe he is a strong-man stunt guy.
Pitt’s outstanding and memorable scene, is in a confrontation with cocky martial arts actor Bruce Lee, played stunningly by newcomer Mike Moh. Both actors, want to prove who has the biggest body part - so the two go at it in a fabulously exciting fight scene with no holds barred. Moh is an American-born Asian, who lies in Wisconsin. He has a black belt in Taekwondo. Pitt more than holds his own in the battle with Bruce Lee!
The fairytale aspect of Tarantino’s film folds the story of the infamous Charles Manson murders into the story. As it actually happened in 1969, it is intriguing how that story from the daily headlines, is enfolded into the story of Hollywood - like an egg folded into a cake batter. We can’t give it away the way it is done - but it is chilling, funny, and unexpected!
The casting of actors is terrific. Young Austin Butler plays Tex, the murderous member of Manson’s gang, who pals around with Squeeky Fromme, played by an unrecognizable Dakota Fanning! Bruce Dern does another unforgettable cameo as George Spahn, the sleepy owner of the Spahn Movie Ranch, where the Manson gang hung out. Handsome Timothy Olyphant is a dead ringer for actor James Stacy of the 60s. Other iconic stars making impressions are Brenda Vaccaro, Clu Gulager, Lena Dunham, Luke Perry, Scoot McNairy, Rumer Willis, Michael Madson, and Emile Hirsch, playing the unfortunate ... murdered Jay Sebring.
In the beginning, it is not apparent all the diverse storylines have any connection whatsoever - but Tarantino, slowly weaves a tightening spider web of intrigue, that meshes into a knock-out climax you least expect. Tarantino is more sly than we are - and he surprises us with his clever directing and script-writing. It’s a picture not to be missed - but, you must have an open mind about the story content.
Tarantino ONCE UPON A TIME principals
(Photos: Sony Pictures Entertainment/ Columbia Pictures)
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Genre: Comedy/ Drama/ Hollywood history
Studio: Sony Pictures Entertainment/ Columbia Pictures
Producers: Quentin Tarantino, David Heyman, Georgia Kacandes
MPAA Rating: R for language throughout, some strong graphic violence, drug use, and sexual references
Our Rating: A
Art Direction: John Dexter, JannK.engel,Helena Homes, Richard L. Johnson, Eric Sundahl
Budget: $95,000,000
Casting: Victoria Thomas
Choreographer: Toni Basil
Costumes: Arianne Phillips
Cinematography: Robert Richardson
Editing: Fred Raskin
Filming dates: 18 June 2018 to 1 November 2018
Locations: Musso & Frank Grill, Hollywood; Santa Clarita; Earl Carroll Theatre, Hollywood; Toluca Lake; Roy Corrigan Movie Ranch; Cielo Drive.
Makeup: Jean Ann Black, makeup for Brad Pitt; Stephen Bettles, Prosthetic makeup for Brad Pitt; Sian Gregg, personal makeup artist for Leonardo DiCaprio; Diana Choi, wig maker for Leonardo DiCaprio
Production Design: Barbara Ling
Run time: 2 Hr-41 min (161 mins)
Set Decoration: Nancy Haigh
Visual effects: Luma Pictures
Writing Credits: Quentin Tarantino, written by
Cast:
Leonardo DiCaprio: Rick Dalton
Brad Pitt: Cliff Booth
Al Pacino: Marvin Schwarzs
Margot Robbie: Sharon Tate
Kurt Russell: Randy
Austin Butler: Tex
Julie Butters: Girl on set
Mike Moh: Bruce Lee
Dakota Fanning: Squeaky Fromme
Timothy Olyphant: James Stacy
Luke Perry: Wayne Maunder
Brenda Vaccaro: Actress
Damian Lewis: Steve McQueen
Emile Hirsch: Jay Sebring
Clu Gulager: Cowboy
Bruce Dern: George Spahn
Scoot McNairy: Business Bob Gilbert
Clifton Collins, Jr.: Ernesto, the Mexican Vaquero
Rebecca Gayheart: Billie Booth
Rafal Zawierucha: Roman Polanski
Rachel Redleaf: Mama Cass
Lorenza Izzo: Francesca Capucci
Rumer Willis: Joanna Pettet
Samantha Robinson: Abigail Folger
********
Film Review:
“Rocketman” Soars to Musical Heights
Paramount Pictures has a smash hit on its hands with Director Dexter Fletcher’s ROCKETMAN, the story of rock n’ roll singing idol Elton John. The film is nothing but superb, in its telling of John’s rise to superstardom, while battling various addictions and dealing with a broken heart stemming from his childhood abuse.
Per James C. Harrison
Director Fletcher was behind the mega hit BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY about the band Queen and Freddy Mercury. The film won an Oscar for star Rami Malek. Fletcher finished the last three weeks of filming, after taking over when original director Bryan Singer left the production. Fletcher knew his way around a musical, and made the film into a world-wide hit! He is doing the same with ROCKETMAN, as it has all indications that Elton John fans will flock to see this fantasy musical about the singer’s life.
Elton John was born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on the 25th of March 1947 in England. He grew up in a loveless home, and suffered as a boy for lack of affection. This rejection by his parents led to problems later in life. His mother Sheila, played enticingly by the beautiful Bryce Dallas Howard (daughter of director Ron Howard), was practically a slut, because of her dalliances with various men - despite being married to Stanley (actor Steven Mackintosh), a cold-hearted man ... who never hugged his son. He also never saw Elton perform in a concert! And we wonder why Elton got screwed up.
Young Taron Egerton (29) should get all the accolades this year for his brilliant performance, as the emerging singer during the formative years. Just as Rami Malek captured Freddy Mercury so well in BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY last year, Egerton has the advantage this year, for capturing an Oscar nomination for his interpretation of the young, wild, funny, serious, manic, broken-hearted Elton. So far this year, no actor has delivered such a diverse performance.
Egerton sings in his own voice, and manages to capture all the excitement of the real Elton John in the musical scenes. He has a good voice, performs in an exciting way, and manages to get one’s toes tapping to the beat of the famous songs. Many of the John-Bernie Taupin songs are re-created as colorful, eye-searing, sequined numbers, that have the audience jumping to their feet in appreciation. The hits “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me,” “Saturday…,” “Your Song,”, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” and the title song “Rocketman” are given joyous, colorful renditions, that are mixed with some of John’s more serious and subdued songs. Fletcher has created a seamless transition, from a dramatic scene, that melts into a musical number with ease. Nobody, automatically breaks into song as in the old musicals.
Costume designer Julian Day earns 'kudos' for his capturing of John’s wild and bizarre costumes, that were worn on stage in the really concerts. Feathers and sequins, are used liberally to set John apart from the other performers at the time. Color and dazzle are the order of the Day ... to coin a pun. Brilliant work, oozes out of the creative mind of Mr. Day. He should be nominated for an Oscar for his designs.
Jamie Bell plays Bernie Taupin, John’s writing partner, since they met in 1967. Bell is a consummate actor/performer, and is happily remembered from his debut film, as the dancing boy in BILLY ELLIOT. Bell is less emotional than his pal, and is level-headed when John blows his top occasionally. Bell adds sanity to his role of the song-writing genius.
The film caused a sensation when it was shown at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in France. It received a standing ovation for several minutes, that was well-deserved. It is certainly one of this year’s best films. Perhaps, this film will serve as an inspiration to bring back the musical film. If they are all as good and brilliant as this one, then we should be in for a happy time at the movies.
Director Fletcher was behind the mega hit BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY about the Band Queen and Freddy Mercury. The film won an Oscar for star Rami Malek. Fletcher finished the last three weeks of filming, after taking over when original director Bryan Singer left the production. Fletcher knew his way around a musical, and made the film into a world-wide hit! He is doing the same with ROCKETMAN, as it has all indications that Elton John fans will flock to see this fantasy musical about the singer’s life!
Paramount Pictures has a smash hit on its hands with Director Dexter Fletcher’s ROCKETMAN, the story of rock n’ roll singing idol Elton John. The film is nothing but superb, in its telling of John’s rise to superstardom, while battling various addictions and dealing with a broken heart stemming from his childhood abuse.
Per James C. Harrison
Director Fletcher was behind the mega hit BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY about the band Queen and Freddy Mercury. The film won an Oscar for star Rami Malek. Fletcher finished the last three weeks of filming, after taking over when original director Bryan Singer left the production. Fletcher knew his way around a musical, and made the film into a world-wide hit! He is doing the same with ROCKETMAN, as it has all indications that Elton John fans will flock to see this fantasy musical about the singer’s life.
Elton John was born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on the 25th of March 1947 in England. He grew up in a loveless home, and suffered as a boy for lack of affection. This rejection by his parents led to problems later in life. His mother Sheila, played enticingly by the beautiful Bryce Dallas Howard (daughter of director Ron Howard), was practically a slut, because of her dalliances with various men - despite being married to Stanley (actor Steven Mackintosh), a cold-hearted man ... who never hugged his son. He also never saw Elton perform in a concert! And we wonder why Elton got screwed up.
Young Taron Egerton (29) should get all the accolades this year for his brilliant performance, as the emerging singer during the formative years. Just as Rami Malek captured Freddy Mercury so well in BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY last year, Egerton has the advantage this year, for capturing an Oscar nomination for his interpretation of the young, wild, funny, serious, manic, broken-hearted Elton. So far this year, no actor has delivered such a diverse performance.
Egerton sings in his own voice, and manages to capture all the excitement of the real Elton John in the musical scenes. He has a good voice, performs in an exciting way, and manages to get one’s toes tapping to the beat of the famous songs. Many of the John-Bernie Taupin songs are re-created as colorful, eye-searing, sequined numbers, that have the audience jumping to their feet in appreciation. The hits “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me,” “Saturday…,” “Your Song,”, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” and the title song “Rocketman” are given joyous, colorful renditions, that are mixed with some of John’s more serious and subdued songs. Fletcher has created a seamless transition, from a dramatic scene, that melts into a musical number with ease. Nobody, automatically breaks into song as in the old musicals.
Costume designer Julian Day earns 'kudos' for his capturing of John’s wild and bizarre costumes, that were worn on stage in the really concerts. Feathers and sequins, are used liberally to set John apart from the other performers at the time. Color and dazzle are the order of the Day ... to coin a pun. Brilliant work, oozes out of the creative mind of Mr. Day. He should be nominated for an Oscar for his designs.
Jamie Bell plays Bernie Taupin, John’s writing partner, since they met in 1967. Bell is a consummate actor/performer, and is happily remembered from his debut film, as the dancing boy in BILLY ELLIOT. Bell is less emotional than his pal, and is level-headed when John blows his top occasionally. Bell adds sanity to his role of the song-writing genius.
The film caused a sensation when it was shown at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in France. It received a standing ovation for several minutes, that was well-deserved. It is certainly one of this year’s best films. Perhaps, this film will serve as an inspiration to bring back the musical film. If they are all as good and brilliant as this one, then we should be in for a happy time at the movies.
Director Fletcher was behind the mega hit BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY about the Band Queen and Freddy Mercury. The film won an Oscar for star Rami Malek. Fletcher finished the last three weeks of filming, after taking over when original director Bryan Singer left the production. Fletcher knew his way around a musical, and made the film into a world-wide hit! He is doing the same with ROCKETMAN, as it has all indications that Elton John fans will flock to see this fantasy musical about the singer’s life!
Director Dexter Fletcher
(Photos: Paramount Pictures)
Director: Dexter Fletcher
Genre: Biography/ Fantasy/ Drama/Musical
Studio: Paramount Pictures/ Rocket Pictures
Producers: Elton John, David Furnish, Claudia Schiffer, others
MPAA Rating: R for language throughout, some drug use and sexual content
Our Rating: A
Animation Department: Adam Klein, animator
Art Direction: Sophie Bridgman, Steve Carter
Budget: $40,000,000
Casting: Pippa Ailion (Dance); Natalie Gallacher (Casting Director, Dance);
and Reg Poerscout-Edgerton
Choreographer: Adam Murray
Cinematographer: George Richmond
Costumes: Julian Day
Editing: Chris Dickens
Location: Bray Studios, England
Music: Matthew Margeson; Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School Choir; Urban Voices Collective Choir; Crouch End Festival Chorus; Michael Dore, vocal coach to Mr. Egerton
Production Design: Peter Francis, Marcus Rowland
Production Start: August 2018
Release Date: May 31, 2019
Runtime: 121 minutes
Set Decoration: Kimberley Fahey, Judy Farr
Set Designer: James Collins
Writing Credits: Lee Hall
Cast:
Taron Egerton: Elton John
Jamie Bell: Bernie Taupin
Richard Madden: John Reid
Bryce Dallas Howard: Sheila, Elton’s mother
Gemma Jones: Ivy, Elton’s grandmother
Steven Mackintosh: Stanley, Elton’s father
Tom Bennett: Fred, Elton’s stepfather
Matthew Illesley: Young Reggie (Elton)
Kit Connor: Teen Elton
Tate Donovan: Doug Weston
Celinde Schoenmaker: Renata Blauel, Elton’s wife
Stephen Graham: Dick James
Rachel Muldoon: Kiki Dee
Sharon P. Clarke: Elton’s Alcoholic’s Anonymous counselor
********
Director: Dexter Fletcher
Genre: Biography/ Fantasy/ Drama/Musical
Studio: Paramount Pictures/ Rocket Pictures
Producers: Elton John, David Furnish, Claudia Schiffer, others
MPAA Rating: R for language throughout, some drug use and sexual content
Our Rating: A
Animation Department: Adam Klein, animator
Art Direction: Sophie Bridgman, Steve Carter
Budget: $40,000,000
Casting: Pippa Ailion (Dance); Natalie Gallacher (Casting Director, Dance);
and Reg Poerscout-Edgerton
Choreographer: Adam Murray
Cinematographer: George Richmond
Costumes: Julian Day
Editing: Chris Dickens
Location: Bray Studios, England
Music: Matthew Margeson; Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School Choir; Urban Voices Collective Choir; Crouch End Festival Chorus; Michael Dore, vocal coach to Mr. Egerton
Production Design: Peter Francis, Marcus Rowland
Production Start: August 2018
Release Date: May 31, 2019
Runtime: 121 minutes
Set Decoration: Kimberley Fahey, Judy Farr
Set Designer: James Collins
Writing Credits: Lee Hall
Cast:
Taron Egerton: Elton John
Jamie Bell: Bernie Taupin
Richard Madden: John Reid
Bryce Dallas Howard: Sheila, Elton’s mother
Gemma Jones: Ivy, Elton’s grandmother
Steven Mackintosh: Stanley, Elton’s father
Tom Bennett: Fred, Elton’s stepfather
Matthew Illesley: Young Reggie (Elton)
Kit Connor: Teen Elton
Tate Donovan: Doug Weston
Celinde Schoenmaker: Renata Blauel, Elton’s wife
Stephen Graham: Dick James
Rachel Muldoon: Kiki Dee
Sharon P. Clarke: Elton’s Alcoholic’s Anonymous counselor
********
Film Review:
By James Colt Harrison
Often when people migrate from one region to another, they bring their traditions with them from the “old country.” Habits are hard to break, and human beings tend to follow familiar paths from the past. Such is the family of Malik, played by the excellent actor Kulvinder Ghir in the new Warner Bros film Bllnded by the Light.
His small family, composed of wife Noor (Meera Ganatra), young son Javed (Viveik Kalra) and daughter Shazia (Nikita Mehta), live in the London suburb of Luton ... somewhat out in the country from London.
Javed is 16, and a boy with bright ideas, who wants to be free of his father’s rigid rules and regulations. Dad wants to make all the decisions, and have everybody jump to his every command - much as it was done back in their country of Pakistan. Javed rebels, of course, and wants to be like all the other kids in school — freer, and happy and doing teen-aged activities with his friends.
At first, Javed is bullied in school, by the usual knot-heads and morons who spit on him. But, he has one loyal British friend named Matt, who lives across the way in their complex. Matt (Dean-Charles Chapman), is a young kid of today, wild and different, and very much into music. He writes songs, and he has Javed write the lyrics.
When Javed is introduced to the music of American recording star Bruce Springsteen, he goes nuts, and falls in love with the meaning of the song’s lyrics. The songs give him a boost emotionally, and he is determined to write his own poetry, lyrics, and essays. His dad thinks it is all nonsense and throws roadblocks at JAVID’s desires.
Javed, you see, is very talented, and can write poetry and essays that his teacher notices. She supports his creative efforts, and encourages him to write. Although, he is unsure of himself, he excels at school with his teacher’s backing. He also gets support from his first girlfriend Eliza, played by the charming British actress Nell Williams.
The music of Bruce Springsteen is interspersed throughout the film - but it is not, perse, a regular musical. We can enjoy Springsteen’s lyrics, and the deep meanings they convey. Javed, is overjoyed with his idol’s music, especially, when he wins a contest, and the prize is a trip to Springsteen’s Asbury Park birthplace. He goes to America, with his best friend Roops - who is played by the swarthy and handsome Aaron Phagura.
The film, which is a true story based on the life of journalist Sarfraz Manzoor, is delightful and ultimately inspiring. Young Viviek Kalra brings charm and innocence to his role - and we learn to love him as a brother, who is going through growing pains, just as everybody else in the world does. The film, shows that people are more or less the same all over the world. It’s an enjoyable film, points out how prejudices infect populations everywhere, and how ultimately love triumphs.
Imagine my surprise, when it was revealed that director Gurinder Chadha is a woman ... and not a man! Why it is assumed, every movie director is a male ... is now not true. There are many fine female directors working in Hollywood ... and around the world.
Ms Chadha, was born in Kenya in 1960, to Indian parents in the British colony. The family moved to London, where they experienced much prejudice against them. She was a bit of a rebel herself, and did not give in to the traditional role of women in Indian families. Therefore, she sat at the dining room table with the men and expressed her opinions ... and did not retreat to the kitchen to cook.
She graduated from the University of East Anglia, and moved into a job as a reporter for BBC Radio. This led to some television work, and then she moved into directing films. She received a BAFTA Nomination for Best British Film of 1994, for her first effort BAHJI ON THE BEACH. Her most popular film was BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM, made about 18 years ago. It was considered a “chick-flick” at the time, but Chadha intended it to be a girl power movie against prejudice of race and sexuality. It was a world-wide hit and the winner of many accolades!
"Blinded By The Light"
Director: Gurinder Chadha
Genre: Comedy/ Music/ Drama
Studio: Warner Bros./ New Line Cinema
Producers: Jane Barclay, Gurinder Chadha, Jamal Daniel
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for thematic material and language including some ethnic slurs
Our Rating:
Art Direction: Grant Bailey
Budget: $15,000,000
Casting by: Susie Figgis, Kirsty Kinnear
Cinematography: Ben Smithard
Costumes: Annie Hardinge
Editing: Justin Krish
Language: Engllish
Location: The Mall Luton, Bedfordshire, England
Makeup: Sally Tynan, makeup supervisor
Music: A.R. Rahman
Production Design: Nick Ellis
Runtime: 117 minutes
Set Decoration: Lucy Howe
Writing Credits: Paul Mayeda Beges, Gurinder Chadha, Sarfraz Manzoor (inspired by the life of journalist); Bruce Springsteen (inspired by the words and music by)
Cast:
Viveik Kaira: Javed
Kulvinder Ghir: Malik
Meera Gantra: Noor
Aaron Phagura: Roops
Dean-Charles Chapman: Matt
Billy Barratt: Young Matt
Nikita Mehta: Shazia
Nell Williams: Eliza
Tara Divina: Yasmeen
Rob Brydon: Matt’s dad
Frankie Fox: Colin Hand
Hayley Atwell: Ms Clay
Sally Phillips: Mrs. Anderson
********
Genre: Comedy/ Music/ Drama
Studio: Warner Bros./ New Line Cinema
Producers: Jane Barclay, Gurinder Chadha, Jamal Daniel
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for thematic material and language including some ethnic slurs
Our Rating:
Art Direction: Grant Bailey
Budget: $15,000,000
Casting by: Susie Figgis, Kirsty Kinnear
Cinematography: Ben Smithard
Costumes: Annie Hardinge
Editing: Justin Krish
Language: Engllish
Location: The Mall Luton, Bedfordshire, England
Makeup: Sally Tynan, makeup supervisor
Music: A.R. Rahman
Production Design: Nick Ellis
Runtime: 117 minutes
Set Decoration: Lucy Howe
Writing Credits: Paul Mayeda Beges, Gurinder Chadha, Sarfraz Manzoor (inspired by the life of journalist); Bruce Springsteen (inspired by the words and music by)
Cast:
Viveik Kaira: Javed
Kulvinder Ghir: Malik
Meera Gantra: Noor
Aaron Phagura: Roops
Dean-Charles Chapman: Matt
Billy Barratt: Young Matt
Nikita Mehta: Shazia
Nell Williams: Eliza
Tara Divina: Yasmeen
Rob Brydon: Matt’s dad
Frankie Fox: Colin Hand
Hayley Atwell: Ms Clay
Sally Phillips: Mrs. Anderson
********
Film Review:
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“The Kitchen”
By James Colt Harrison
What can be better than a story ripped from the headlines and based on a true incident? Set in the 1970s, THE KITCHEN, relates what happened when the tough wives of some notorious New York gangsters took over the rackets, when their husbands were locked-up in the slammer. Strange, but true. As has been said, truth is stranger than fiction.
There was a time back in the 1930s, when we had great “gun molls” like Joan Blondell and Glenda Farrell. They swarmed about the Warner Bros lot, like gals who knew what they were doing, and did it to our delight on the silver screen. Melissa McCarthy and Elisabeth Moss aren’t quite in the same category as Blondell and Farrell, but as modern Irish Mafia wives, they do a pretty good job of being “tough” and “savvy” about their husbands’ nefarious activities.
Set in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen---a melting pot in the 1920s and 1930s for immigrants --- and the real birthplace of another Warners “bad guy,”, the original “grapefruit-in-the-face” James Cagney. You can’t get any tougher than that --- and he did it while dancing on the toes of his tap shoes, the film is a modern look at what may have never changed ... criminals!
What’s a girl to do when your husband is caught in a sting operation, and is sent off to prison by the FBI? They were all tough Irish guys who had a stranglehold over Hell’s Kitchen. They ran the rackets, they provided “protection” to the little shop owners. Now all that is gone ... Or is it?
Never underestimate the power of a woman in need. Claire (Elisabeth Moss), Kathy (Melissa McCarthy) and Ruby (Tiffany Haddish) are women in need, who have an idea on how to survive without their husbands. Kathy is the original ringleader and gal with ideas. She can be tough. Although you may initially want to laugh at McCarthy and Haddish --- two ladies known for their comedy chops --- they are no laughing matter here. Their characters are serious. They want to form a coalition and take over their husbands’ rackets. They are not very nice ladies when it comes to squeezing money out of the local businesses.
Claire falls for the immoral Gabriel, played deliciously by Domhnall Gleeson. He teaches Claire, how to carve up a body as though it’s a Thanksgiving turkey. It’s a grisly scene, that will have you squeamishly averting your eyes --- and then looking back, so as not to miss the finer points of using a razor-sharp carving knife on a tattooed leg. It’s a scene Chef Gordon Ramsay would approve.
We follow the three ladies in their pursuit of money and territory. Unfortunately, none of them are very admirable characters, as they seem totally immoral, and not anybody you would want to cuddle against. Haddish shows her dramatic acting ability in some provocative scenes. We know she can act dramatic scenes now, and she will be cast in future dramatic and comic productions with ease. McCarthy is branching out into the serious field and does well. Moss is the most evil of the three, and she quickly becomes blood-thirsty, and learns to use a pistol as easily as if it were a tube of lipstick.
And ... we leave the gals ... as the rat-tat-tat of machine guns ... echoes in our ears ...
By James Colt Harrison
What can be better than a story ripped from the headlines and based on a true incident? Set in the 1970s, THE KITCHEN, relates what happened when the tough wives of some notorious New York gangsters took over the rackets, when their husbands were locked-up in the slammer. Strange, but true. As has been said, truth is stranger than fiction.
There was a time back in the 1930s, when we had great “gun molls” like Joan Blondell and Glenda Farrell. They swarmed about the Warner Bros lot, like gals who knew what they were doing, and did it to our delight on the silver screen. Melissa McCarthy and Elisabeth Moss aren’t quite in the same category as Blondell and Farrell, but as modern Irish Mafia wives, they do a pretty good job of being “tough” and “savvy” about their husbands’ nefarious activities.
Set in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen---a melting pot in the 1920s and 1930s for immigrants --- and the real birthplace of another Warners “bad guy,”, the original “grapefruit-in-the-face” James Cagney. You can’t get any tougher than that --- and he did it while dancing on the toes of his tap shoes, the film is a modern look at what may have never changed ... criminals!
What’s a girl to do when your husband is caught in a sting operation, and is sent off to prison by the FBI? They were all tough Irish guys who had a stranglehold over Hell’s Kitchen. They ran the rackets, they provided “protection” to the little shop owners. Now all that is gone ... Or is it?
Never underestimate the power of a woman in need. Claire (Elisabeth Moss), Kathy (Melissa McCarthy) and Ruby (Tiffany Haddish) are women in need, who have an idea on how to survive without their husbands. Kathy is the original ringleader and gal with ideas. She can be tough. Although you may initially want to laugh at McCarthy and Haddish --- two ladies known for their comedy chops --- they are no laughing matter here. Their characters are serious. They want to form a coalition and take over their husbands’ rackets. They are not very nice ladies when it comes to squeezing money out of the local businesses.
Claire falls for the immoral Gabriel, played deliciously by Domhnall Gleeson. He teaches Claire, how to carve up a body as though it’s a Thanksgiving turkey. It’s a grisly scene, that will have you squeamishly averting your eyes --- and then looking back, so as not to miss the finer points of using a razor-sharp carving knife on a tattooed leg. It’s a scene Chef Gordon Ramsay would approve.
We follow the three ladies in their pursuit of money and territory. Unfortunately, none of them are very admirable characters, as they seem totally immoral, and not anybody you would want to cuddle against. Haddish shows her dramatic acting ability in some provocative scenes. We know she can act dramatic scenes now, and she will be cast in future dramatic and comic productions with ease. McCarthy is branching out into the serious field and does well. Moss is the most evil of the three, and she quickly becomes blood-thirsty, and learns to use a pistol as easily as if it were a tube of lipstick.
And ... we leave the gals ... as the rat-tat-tat of machine guns ... echoes in our ears ...
Principals in "THE KITCHEN "
(Photos: Warner Bros.)
Directed by Andrea Berloff
Genre: Action/Crime/ Drama
Studio: Warner Bros.
Producers: Michael DeLuca, Marcus Viscidi
MPAA Rating: R for violence, language throughout, and some sexual content
Our Rating: B
Art Direction: Anu Schwartz, Ernesto Solo
Cinematography: Maryse Alberti
Costumes: Sarah Edwards
Editing: Christopher Tellefsen
Locations: New York City
Makeup: Pamela Westmore, make-up artist for Melissa McCarthy; Linda D. Flowers, hairstyist for Melissa McCarthy; Dionne Wynn, make-up artist for Tiffany Haddish
Music: Bryce Dessner
Production Company: BRON Studios, Creative Wealth Media Finance, DC Vertigo
Production Design: Shane Valentino
Release Date: 9th August 2019
Runtime: 102 minutes
Special Effects: Drew Jeritano, Andrew Mortelliti
Visual Effects: Cadence Effects, Method Studios, Shade VFX, Alkemy X, Fuse X
Writing Credits: Ollie Masters, Ming Doyle, comic book series; Andrea Berloff,
Cast:
Melissa McCarthy: Kathy
Elisabeth Moss: Claire Walsh
Domhmnall Gleeson: Gabriel O’Malley
Tiffany Haddish: Ruby O’Carroll
James Badge Dale: Kevin O’Carroll
Jeremy Bobb: Rob Walsh
Anabella Sciorra
Margo Martindale
Common
Brian d”Arcy James
Bill Camp
Wayne Duvall
Directed by Andrea Berloff
Genre: Action/Crime/ Drama
Studio: Warner Bros.
Producers: Michael DeLuca, Marcus Viscidi
MPAA Rating: R for violence, language throughout, and some sexual content
Our Rating: B
Art Direction: Anu Schwartz, Ernesto Solo
Cinematography: Maryse Alberti
Costumes: Sarah Edwards
Editing: Christopher Tellefsen
Locations: New York City
Makeup: Pamela Westmore, make-up artist for Melissa McCarthy; Linda D. Flowers, hairstyist for Melissa McCarthy; Dionne Wynn, make-up artist for Tiffany Haddish
Music: Bryce Dessner
Production Company: BRON Studios, Creative Wealth Media Finance, DC Vertigo
Production Design: Shane Valentino
Release Date: 9th August 2019
Runtime: 102 minutes
Special Effects: Drew Jeritano, Andrew Mortelliti
Visual Effects: Cadence Effects, Method Studios, Shade VFX, Alkemy X, Fuse X
Writing Credits: Ollie Masters, Ming Doyle, comic book series; Andrea Berloff,
Cast:
Melissa McCarthy: Kathy
Elisabeth Moss: Claire Walsh
Domhmnall Gleeson: Gabriel O’Malley
Tiffany Haddish: Ruby O’Carroll
James Badge Dale: Kevin O’Carroll
Jeremy Bobb: Rob Walsh
Anabella Sciorra
Margo Martindale
Common
Brian d”Arcy James
Bill Camp
Wayne Duvall