SIX is Inspired by Real Missions

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray from creators William and Dave Broyles, the History Channel and 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment is the riveting and startling look at those who put their lives on the line and are only known as SIX.

Richard 'Rip' Taggart (Walton Coggins) is a former Navy Seal who now works as a security contractor in Nigeria. Sent to help protect an all girl’s school, he, a school teacher Na’omi (Nondumiso Tembe), Esther (Tyla Harris) and other girls are swiftly kidnapped by the terrorist Boko Haram. The terrorist learn quickly that they have a former Navy SEAL among their captives and are going to use Taggart to get what they want.

When his former SEAL Team Six members become aware that Taggart has been taken, it brings up an incident that happened in Afghanistan and they know that someone else besides Boko Haram want their former SEAL. 

Each of the former SEAL's have family issues they are contending with, Joe 'Bear' Graves (Barry Sloane) is trying to start a family, Ricky 'Buddha' Ortiz (Juan Pablo Raba) comes home to a family that seems to be holding a grudge toward the absentee husband-dad and Alex Caulder (Kyle Schmid) is on his way to trouble. Armin "Fishbait" Khan (Jaylen Moore) is a new comer to the group who fits right in.

Trying to put family's right and working a plan to get Taggart back is taking a strain on all the men. Especially since they have a secret that is going to be a problem when a man named Michael (Dominic Adams) who plots with leader Al-Muttaqi (Jarreth J. Merz) wants Taggart and will do anything to get him.

Putting their plan of rescue into action, the team takes on the compound of Boko Haram only to find Taggart and the girl are gone. Making use of the Muttaqi media connections, Taggart is forced to admit what happened in 1984. The team is in a tailspin and turn their attention toward Michael discovering a jihad training camp in Chad. Believing he finally has revenge against Taggart, it seems to backfire for Michael in a way he could not have imagined. 

Coggins as Taggart is certainly playing a role I have not seen from him before. Gone is the swagger, the southern drawl and the costuming giving the character of Taggart a stripped down man who can no longer hide from himself or the secret a whole team is holding on to. Beginning as a hardened soldier, episode by episode it is all stripped away and I was riveted to watch it all happen.

Sloane as Bear is a torn man who knows what the job he signed up for entails yet wants to make his wife happy by starting a family. Going after Taggart brings back unresolved issues that stop him from making decisions that require a quickness to save lives. Raba as Buddha has been leaving home so often his wife has taken on a life of her own and the kids are in hello/goodbye mode. Realizing his family life is passing him by, he wants to take care of his family but at what cost?

Schmidt as Caulder seems to be the wild card of the bunch. Living a bohemian life he is surprised when his daughter Dharma (Lindsley Register) shows up on his doorstep calling out his past behaviors and future for their father/daughter relationship. Moore as Fishbait wants to help find Taggart and knows that he is going to have to call upon unlikely sources to plan a rescue.

Adams as Michael clearly has an issue with Taggart and will go against anyone that tries to stop him. Making a deal with Boko Haram also puts the girls and their teacher in more jeopardy with recruitment tactics. Merz as Muttaqi is equally as devious as Michael but also knows that Taggart has become a distraction.

Tembe as Na’omi is a teacher who will do anything to save her girls from the torturous treatment that happens to young girls by the Boko Haram. I loved her performance and she should be applauded for her amazing role. Harris as Esther is so beautiful in this role as a young girl who is willing to trust a man who most think untrustworthy. She believes when most probably wouldn’t and it doesn’t go unnoticed by Taggart.

Other cast include Rus Blackwell as Commander Atkins, Donny Boaz as Buckley, Niyi Oni as Quayum, Lee Spencer as Terry, Matt Burke as Nick, Angela Relucio as Lt. Fung, Tyler Chase as Kashif, Arnold Chanakira as Hakeem, Brianne Davis as Lena Graves, Tyla Harris as Esther, Zeeko Zaki as Akmal Barayev, and Nadine Velazquez as Jackie Ortiz.

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

SIX is an intense, realistic, and scary look at what it takes to protect those who need it the most, be part of a group that jump at a moments notice when needed for special operations and attempt to maintain a home life. Creators William and David Broyles have brought an authenticity to these characters because it doesn’t hide behind anything but instead bring all possibilities front and center in full view.

From the Boko Haram to terrorist recruiting, the creators use what most Americans know about and delve deeper into how these issues threaten lives. There is a real sense of fear from both of these groups and what they are capable of is an important message for us all.

This ensemble cast is absolutely amazing bringing every aspect to the story telling that kept me watching more and more. The best part of owning the Bluray is not having to wait till the next week to find out what happens next. I absolutely marathon-watched SIX and will do it again with no problem.

There is so much that I’m not speaking about because this is an experience and I’m not about to give anything away and trust me – there is plenty! The Bluray includes all 8 episodes on two discs with almost six hours of story telling. The set also includes Digital HD that can be instantly streamed and downloaded to your television, computer, tablet and smartphone.

Inspired by real missions, the creators bring an authenticity to the world of America’s SEAL elite special operations unit! This is a look at what they do, their personal lives, what happens in combat with the life and death situations they face so they can come home to their families again.

In the end – never leave a brother behind!

Life When RULES DON'T APPLY Comes to Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

This week on Bluray and DVD from writer/director Warren Beatty and 20^th Century Fox Home Entertainment comes a story of a man who tries to show the world that in his universe RULES DON'T APPLY.

It is 1958 Hollywood, California as billionaire Howard Hughes (Warren Beatty) has his hands in a little bit of everything. Running a business founded by his father, keeping his employees hopping and finding the next beautiful actress is a full time job. 

Discovering one such actress, Marla Mabrey (Lily Collins) is a young woman who is beautiful, sings and is watched over by the discerning eye of mother Lucy (Annette Bening). Now under contract with Hughes, Marla is excited to finally be exactly where she's always dreamed she'd be.

Driving the young woman and her mother around Hollywood is limo driver Frank Forbes (Alden Ehrenreich) who is secretly and equally thrilled to be meeting Mr. Hughes. Coming into contact daily with Marla, they forge a friendship that borders on romantic. What keeps the seriousness at bay is Frank's 7th grade sweetheart who pretty much believes the two are practically married.

Hughes is struggling as well but with practically everyone in his life. Believing that long time friend Noah Dietrich (Martin Sheen) is trying to have him committed, Hughes pushes back leaving Nadine Henly (Candice Bergen) and Levar Mathis (Matthew Broderick) left to keep an eye on Hughes. Eventually, the billionaire turns to Frank as a trusted employee to guard Hughes interests.

Their friendship blooms as Marla waits for Mr. Hughes to finally make arrangements to meet her. It puts a strain on both young people as Hughes has strict rule that none of his employees is to come near his contract actresses. When it becomes clear that the two need to back away, Lily has an encounter with Hughes that changes the course of their lives forever.

When you have billions of dollars you have billions of problems but love isn't one of them!

Beatty as Hughes gives the persona of a man who knows what he wants and doesn't take 'no' for an answer, in fact he really doesn't take anything for an answer. His train of thought is so all over the place that it’s hard to get a question in edgewise, then again I don't think I'd know how to ask him a question. Sound like I'm confused? Beatty gives Hughes a struggling nature that clearly affected every corner of his life. Mixed in with the sadness of this character I must admit to have the giggles a few times as his odd choices and Beatty makes most of it feel charming.

Collins as Lily is a young girl who just wanted to come to Hollywood and be a star. She has the look of the era and brings everything along with that in terms of attitude and beliefs. From a protective Mother to the guilt of passion, Collins is delightful and watching her character face the harsh realities is a cautionary tale to be sure.

Ehrenreich as Frank is a man on his own rise to glory. Finding the job with Hughes fascinating and challenging, he also sees potential for Hughes' help in real estate development. Staying when most people surely would have left, Ehrenreich's character comes to have a twisted understanding of his employer making it even more difficult to walk away. 

Sheen as Dietrich certainly took his fair share of grief from Hughes and anytime Sheen is on the screen I'm all in. Bergen as Nadine is a woman who sees all but says very, very little. Broderick as Mathis is basically a Hughes 'yes' man or perhaps more of 'it's his life' man. 

Other cast includes: Paul Sorvino as Vernon Scott, Peter Mackenzie as Gene Handsaker, Dan Desmond as Gladwin Hill, Hart Bochner as Col. Willis, Madisyn Ritland as Bella and Louise Linton as Betty with appearances by Steve Coogan, Alec Baldwin and Ed Harris.

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.fox.com.

RULES DON'T APPLY is a quirky tale of Hollywood love, Hollywood loss and a nutty billionaire in the middle of it all. It is such an interesting telling in that the love story between Frank and Lily is forefront and that is difficult enough for these two young people in 1958 Hollywood but to have Howard Hughes as your boss is nothing short of a huge fly in the champagne glass of love.

Seriously, Beatty steals the film with his portrayal of Hughes as one minute he is whimsical moved by a young girl singing to arrogance at finding no reason to meet with people face to face to literally flying by the seat of his pants lifestyle. I felt sorry for these two young kids dealing with a man who quickly shows that nothing else matters except banana bread ice cream (and I've never heard of it but would love to try it!)

The clothing, cars, home furnishings and settings of the era truly lend itself to quickly falling into the story with ease. Of course I may be a tad partial as a fan of most period pieces. The film didn't over do it yet didn't leave out the smallest detail, including granny panties - you'll see.

RULES DON’T APPLY Bluray and DVD include the Special Features This is Rules Don’t Apply, Music Video “The Rules Don’t Apply” performed by Lily Collins and a Gallery.

If your ready for a little romance, a little twisted adventure, a couple of young people in love and a billionaire who is in the middle of it all then discover why the RULES DON’T APPLY.

In the end - sometimes you have to learn the hard way when rules don't apply!

MOANA Adds to Disney’s Vivid Storytelling

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to VOD and Bluray this March from director Ron Clements and John Musker along with Don Hall, Chris Williams and Walt Disney Animation Studios comes MOANA.

This film tells the story of Moana (Auli’I Cravalho), daughter of Chief Tui (Temuera Morrison) and drawn to the ocean. Growing up with village expectations continually keeps her away from the waves that she loves. Listening to her father about taking her responsibilities seriously she stays away from the water.

But one person knows of Moana’s love of the sea and desire to see what is beyond the waves is Gramma Tala (Rachel House) who shares the secret of the people. Deep within the island are boats once used by Moana’s people who were explorers.

When the island harvest isn’t producing what it normally does and the fish are disappearing from the cove, Moana knows she must do something to help. Along with rooster Heihei (Alan Tudyk), Moana takes a boat and hits the seas searching for demi-god Maui (Dwayne Johnson).

They work together to reunite the heart of Tehiti and save the people of Motunui Island.

Cravalho as Moana is strong willed, filled with ocean-guilt, loved by her people and carries a lovely tune. Knowing that the responsibilities come with the job of being the Chief’s daughter, Moana tries to fill the shoes. Cravalho has a lovely voice giving Disney another winning soundtrack and every time she announced that she was “Moana!” Cravalho gave us a determined and strong cry!

Johnson as Maui is absolutely everything one would want in a demi-god! He’s big, he’s hilarious, he has wavy black hair and a tattoo that literally is his conscience. Adding his vocals that are brilliant to this character, there is absolutely no one else that could have pulled this off.

I have to take this moment to talk about Heihei the chicken and yes Alan Tudyk is the sounds of this bird but you need to be prepared because I love this chicken. Yes the pigs are cute and the fishes of the sea are awesome but Heihei is the most unusually funny animal I have seen in Disney films.

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment began distributing under its own label in 1980 and continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO and SLEEPING BEAUTY to name a few is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is currently available to add to your own family library please visit. www.movies.disney.com for their At Home titles!

MOANA is Disney at it’s best with the themes that family’s have come to expect from this amazing company. There is love, family, humor, friendship, suspense, adventure, a serious level of cuteness with characters that kept me laughing.

Of course you can’t have The Rock in a film where his character not only is a little narcissistic but has tattoos that remind him of that fact, a cockeyed chicken, an ocean with attitude and a young girl with determination bigger than the demi-gods pecks and not have fun.

The animation is absolutely stunning and I have to admit that I truly loved everything ocean with its life and beauty. The songs are filled with story telling and carried mainly by Moana’s character.

The Bluray is nothing short of stunning but I’d expect nothing less! Including never-before-seen bonus and Maul Mini-Movie there are more songs and so much more. The Special Features are the song Warrior Face, Voice of the Islands – discover how the heritage of the islands influenced the story and how the people and their culture inspired filmmakers.

Not enough? How about Things You Didn’t Know About…-get to know the movie’s stars and talent through a series of rapid-fire questions, Island Fashion – find out how the costumes were designed using only materials and techniques native to the islands of Oceania, They Know the Way: Making the Music of Moana – Learn how Opetaia Foa’I, Mark Mancina and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s involvement with the movie changed their lives.

Finally, How Far I’ll Go song by Alessia Cara, Deleted Scenes and my favorite Fishing for Easter Eggs! You can also instantly stream and download with the Digital HD code included in the Bluray.

In the end – the ocean is calling!

DOCTOR STRANGE is a Thrill Ride to the End

Jeri Jacquin

On Bluray this week from director writer/director Scott Derrickson, Marvel and Walt Disney Studios comes the highly anticipated look at the mind bending world of DOCTOR STRANGE.

Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) is a world renowned egotistical yet brilliant Neurosurgeon who has everything. Outrageous car, fine jewelry, cool watches and a beautiful home overlooking New York City are just a few of the perks in his line of work. Proving that he is brilliant seems to bring satisfaction to his inflated ego and this is known by ER physician Christine Palmer (Rachel McAdams). Putting up with him is something she is willing to do understanding that caring sometimes means dealing with silliness.

One night after performing another feat of medical brilliance, Dr. Strange is on his way to a speaking engagement that is about to change his life. A serious accident causes devastating damage to his hands and sends him in an emotional tailspin. Trying to find a way to fix the nerves, he reaches out everywhere.

During therapy he is told that there is a man who shouldn't have recovered but did and this intrigues Strange. He discovers where this man is and questions him about how his recovery was possible. Being told of a place in Kathmandu, Nepal - Strange spends every dime of his money to get there only to discover it's not like Googling the nearest Holiday Inn!

He meets Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor) or rather Mordo meets Strange in an alley when he is being mugged. Mordo takes him to meet the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton) but warns him to forget everything he thinks he knows. Strange uses his sarcasm and wit but discovers the Ancient One who is slightly amused by his deflecting of personal pain and shows him a world he never knew existed.

Hungry for more he is rejected, but his determination starts him on a voyage with training by the Ancient One and Mordo but Strange wants to learn faster. He takes it upon himself to study and read from their library run by Wong (Benedict Wong) who is keeping a close eye on Strange.

While this is happening, a man named Kaecilius (Mads Mikkelsen) has taken pages from one of the Ancient Ones books that has the ability to release a dark power. The Ancient One certainly has her hands full with the dealings of Kaecilius, training Strange and hiding a secret that could change everything.

Strange becomes stronger and wiser (although no less twisted in his humor) knowing that with the help of the Mordo, Wong, the Eye of Agamotto and the Cloak of Levitation that chose Strange!

It is time to stop the destruction of the world!

Cumberbatch as Strange manages to totally surprise me in every way. Having gotten use to the attempt at villainy or the demure roles he has taken, Cumberbatch gave me laughs, chuckles, and accidental snorts. He totally nailed the ‘American’ accent without a slip up which is a weird pet peeve of mine.

Ejiofor as Mordo is the calmer character who understands Strange better than Strange does. Being with the Ancient One for a while also gives him deeper insight to help Strange deal with the ins and outs of what he has gotten himself into. Ejiofor’s character is calm until its time not to be.

McAdams as Palmer comes in and out through the film going from caring doctor and friend to Strange to awestruck by the return of someone different. She has the right demeanor to be surprised yet together in the midst of astral body wars! Wong as Wong is fantastic but then again I already knew he would be.

Swinton as the Ancient One went through a lot of side commenting from fans of the comic about taking this role yet seeing her on the screen I loved it. Okay, so I’m a Swinton fan from way back and anything she does resonates with me but here she is down to the bare bones of a character with a secret. Well done.

Mikkelsen as Kaecilius is the biggest thrill for me. I have been following his career since first seeing him in 2000 Danish television series UNIT 1 playing Allan Fischer. The spark in his eyes when he was angry had me riveted because it was always followed with action instead of talk. He blew me away in the 2009 film VALHALLA RISING and the 2014 THE SALVATION. In DOCTOR STRANGE he has pulled out all the stops to be as evil as he wants to be and my only wish is that he got more screen time!

Other cast include: Michael Stuhlbarg as Dr. Nicodemus West, Scott Adkins as Lucian, Topo Wresniwiro as Hamir, Umit Ulgen as Sol Rama and Benjamin Bratt as Jonathan Pangborn.

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment began distributing under its own label in 1980 and continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO and SLEEPING BEAUTY to name a few is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is currently available to add to your own family library please visit. www.movies.disney.com for their At Home titles!

I wasn’t sure what to expect from DOCTOR STRANGE but I am pleasantly surprised. My problem with other super hero films is that there are too many of them in one film for me to enjoy it. That isn’t the case here; instead I get one funny and quick witted man who comes to terms with his frailties.

The storyline is a combination of humor, sarcasm and frailties and I must have sarcasm and wit mixed in with amazing special effects if you’re going to keep me planted in my seat. DOCTOR STRANGE does just that. It is entertaining, fascinating, funny, and just enough in the realm of fantasy to make it so dang enjoyable!

The cast that is put together bounce off each other in such a way that I cared what happened to them – yes I even cared what happened to Strange! Even though there are moments where I thought of other films in the sense of flying capes, twisted cities and a magic eye, it didn’t bother me enough to turn away. In fact it awoke a kid like curiosity!

The special effects are fantastic but then again if you are going to tell the story of Doctor Strange you better make sure they are above and beyond.  The Bluray/DVD and Digital HD bring extremely high quality home to enjoy again and again.

The Bluray includes tons of extras like A Strange Transformation, Strange Company, The Fabric of Reality, Across Time and Space, The Score-Cerer Supreme, Marvel Studios Phase 3 Exclusive Look, Team Thor: Part 2, Audio Commentary with Scott Derrickson, Deleted Scenes and my personal favorite Gag Reel.

Writer Stan Lee, who makes quick appearances in Marvel films, along with Steve Ditko created Dr. Strange. From the early 1960s till the present day it was only a matter of time before this particular superhero jumped from comics to screen – and jump he does!

In the end – open your mind and change reality!

COUNTRY CRUSH Sings to the Heart on DVD

Jeri Jacquin

Coming from SHOUT! Factory and director Andrew Cymek is a story that reaches in to the heart and gives it a little country squeeze with the story of a COUNTRY CRUSH.

This is a tale of a small town and its folks with big dreams. Nancy (Madeline Merlo) is a young woman looking to sing to the masses. She believes finding producer Brad (Jacob Blair) and the new label he represents offers her an opportunity to finally be heard. Then there is Charlie (Munro Chambers), the local mechanic who is proud to own his business and loves his family.

Charlie's big brother Cody (Kevin McGarry) also loves his family. Wife Katherine (Jana Kramer) and son Cody Jr. (Samuel Faraci) are his motivation to serve his country in the military. Getting ready for deployment, he spends as much time with family as possible. He also knows that Charlie will keep an eye on everything while he is away.

Nancy and friend Ainsley (Sophie Simmons) are off to a gathering of friends filled with music and fun. That was the plan until Nancy's car decides to take a breakdown on the side of the road. Calling for a tow, Charlie shows up as fun loving Ainsley leaves her girl to tend to everything else.

Charlie assures Nancy that fixing her car is all that is going on between them as a night getting to know one another brings unexpected sparks. Nancy tells Charlie about her dream to sing and he knows a few people to at least get her in that direction if even only for a moment. 

Later Charlie meets producer Brad and over hears a conversation that lets him know Brad isn't everything he pretends to be. Trying to warn Nancy, she makes it clear to Charlie that nothing is going to stand in her way of success - not even him. Fighting their  emotions for one another, Nancy uses her wanting of success to push everything else aside, especially Charlie.

Sometimes it takes time away to learn the most valuable life lessons of all.

Chambers as Bishop is a sweet character who only wants what's best for those around him. Definitely devoted to family, Chambers gives his character a quiet quality that only wants the best for those around him. Once he breaks out into song, there is an even deeper quality to his performance that is nothing short of endearing. McGarry as brother Cody has a voice on him as well and the duet with Chambers is one that I'd listen to again and again.

Merlo as Nancy is a young woman who is driven by her desire for success. Making a few missteps along the way, she knows Charlie has a good heart but is too stubborn to listen to anyone. She has a sweet voice that really does have a country feel to it. What impresses me more perhaps is that Merlo is the singing voice for Sonata Dusk in the My Little Pony: Equestria Girls - Rainbow Rocks. I mention this because my granddaughter never misses an episode!

Kramer as Katherine portrays a woman like many military wives worried about their husbands leaving on deployment and thrilled for the moments they can spent even if it’s only a conference call. Kramer has a resume that includes so many memorable shows with her character of Portia Ranson in the 90210 series, Brooke Manning in the HBO series Entourage and Alex Dupre on One Tree Hill. 

Simmons as Ainsley is that friend we all have had at one time or another. Her goal is having a good time and sometimes stepping on toes belonging to other people’s feet. She does have the chance to share her singing chops showing the apple doesn't fall far from the tree as Simmons is the daughter of legendary rock icon Gene Simmons of KISS. Blair as Brad is just the usual all-around douche bag who uses his position badly and there is something to be said for playing the bad guy now and again.

Other cast include Marcia Bennett as Mrs. Stanley, Kristian Bruun as Barney and Hannah Jepp as Hannah Wallace.

SHOUT! Factory has grown into a tremendous multi-platform media company. Releasing new animated features such as the exquisite Long Way North, and the epic fantasy Beauty And The Beast. Also their own original horror film, Fender Bender gives fans a good scare. For more of what SHOUT Factor has to offer please visit www.shoutfactory.com.

COUNTRY CRUSH is an all around story about the people who live in a small town and still have big dreams. The definition of big dreams depends on who you talk to. Nancy's big dreams are to sing to large crowds and Charlie's big dream is to run a successful business. Both dreams are filled with heart which is what makes dreams come true. 

The music adds the right touch to the story telling and are songs that you might hear on the radio quite easily. Each song falls seamlessly into the story line and I enjoyed hearing Chambers and Merlo sing together. There is a vocal chemistry between them that is very sweet.

COUNTRY CRUSH is available exclusively at Walmart  so click on this link https://www.walmart.com/ip/55394566 to order your very own piece of small town love and life. 

In the end - sometimes country just needs a little musical! 

LOGAN Slashes into Theaters

    

Jeri Jacquin

In theatres this Friday from writer/director James Mangold, Marvel Entertainment and 20^th Century Fox is the anticipated film in the saga of Wolverine with LOGAN.

The story picks up as Logan/Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) is a washed out limo driver living well beyond 2016. In fact far into the future and his dream is to buy a big boat and sale away from humanity. That was the plan until a man named Pierce (Boyd Holbrook) showed up in his limousine.

Pierce makes it plain that he is looking for someone believing that Logan may have answers. Logan assures the intruder that who ever he’s looking for is of no interest to him. That’s when the name Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) is mentioned angering Logan.

Taking off for a hideout, Logan is trying to keep things safe which is about to change when a little girl named Laura (Dafne Keen) comes into his life. Pierce and Dr. Rice (Richard E. Grant) are looking for the girl and stopping at nothing to make sure it happens.

Laura and Charles connect to one another and it becomes clear that there are more young mutants in hiding from Dr. Rice and Pierce. Logan isn’t happy about any of this and knows the only way to stop it is to get Laura to safety.

The danger along the way is hard, fast and out for only one thing – to destroy the young mutants by any means possible. There is a new mutant on the horizon who will challenge them all!

It’s always nice to see Jackman but in LOGAN it is cringe worthy watching him continually try to convince me he is old and decrepit. Why do I want to see that? The bad attitude from a younger Wolverine is back but now seems more like Grumpy Old X-Men which might make an awesome film for the next X-Men installment.

Holbrook as Pierce is just another psycho who has a young guy chip on his shoulder. With the air of invincibility he goes after Logan, Charles and Laura. Stewart as Charles was just a hard thing to watch. Grant as Dr. Rice is just the next generation psychopath who doesn’t mind killing a kid or two.

Keen had the best part in the film I should think. There isn’t much dialogue and she has the angry eyebrow of Jean Grey with a few moves of her own. It took a hot second to realize there are new X-men in town.

Other cast include Stephen Merchant as Caliban, Elizabeth Rodriguez as Gabriela, Eriq La Salle as Will Munson, Elise Neal as Kathryn Munson, Quincy Fouse as Nate Munson, and Reynaldo Gallegos as Rey.

LOGAN is a sad film from start to finish and not in a ‘you-got-a-tissue?’ way as far as I’m concerned. There is nothing worse than beating a comic book anti-hero to death and then dragging him through 137 minutes of MY life that I’ll never get back. Don’t misunderstand me, I wanted to cheer for the film but instead jeers snuck out now and then.

The story did absolutely nothing for me and I’m sure I’ll get a yelling from a lot of people for saying that. Do I have to read the comic to understand what the hell is going on? It’s like an X-Men sludge mixed up to give Wolverine another adventure at what I’m sure I don’t know.

Did Wolverine really need another movie? I can honestly say that I have a sore neck from the amount of head shakes I did. What goes on with Charles isn’t much better to my way of thinking. I mean seriously? If the anti-hero Wolverine is to get a beat down, there is no respect for Charles at all!

Of course I’m trying not to give too much away which isn’t all that difficult in the case of LOGAN. I’m sure that comic fans will be happy and feel a sense of closure. My sense of closure came from finally feeling free to walk out of the theatre!

So prepare for a slashing and bashing that comes with hanging out in mutant territory.

In the end – don’t mess with the limo driver! 

VICE PRINCIPLES Comes to Bluray from HBO: Speaking with star Kimberly Hebert Gregory

Jeri Jacquin

HBO brings class into session with the soon to be released Bluray, DVD and Digital Download pack of comedy that will test your take on laughter with VICE PRINCIPLES: The Complete First Season.

As two teachers plot and plan for control of the principle job at North Jackson High School, Neil Gamby (Danny McBride) and Lee Russell (Walton Coggins) are in for a big surprise.

Deciding to hire someone not from the school, the two teachers are introduced to Dr. Belinda Brown played by Kimberly Hebert Gregory. Coming into the school with high expectations, she had no idea that what was about to happen to her.

From dealing with two adults acting like teenagers, an ex-husband who hasn’t grown up either and sons who test her every move – Dr. Brown is pushed to a breaking point that is nothing short of mind boggling.

I had the grand opportunity to speak with Kimberly about her role as the principal of North Jackson High School and shares with us an in-depth look at her character.

Jeri Jacquin: Thanks for talking with me today Kimberly, how are you?

KHG: I'm doing great Jeri, thank you.

JJ: I have to tell you that I just fell for the series VICE PRINCIPLES and your character. Please tell me how you got involved with the project?

KHG: It really was an audition where they made a decision about the character early on in the pilot and I was doing another pilot at the time. Somehow it worked out that I got to go in and auditioned with Danny McBride sitting there. I was trying not to freak out; I mean it was a test with the leads! I did walk out feeling 'wow, this is a great moment, pat on the back Kimberly!' I made people who I truly respect in comedy laugh and thought it was a good day. They called back fortunately.

JJ: When you read the script did your jaw drop as much as mine did watching the series?

KHG: It did but for several different reasons. I'm actually reading everyone's part even though I'm Dr. Brown and reading it for the development of my character. I had to think about what was this world like that Belinda was going to be in. Just reading that this was taking place in a school and this was adults behaving this way in a school, I was blown away at how absurd it all seemed. The adults had really become the children.

JJ: It's almost too as if they had their own adult "high school' cliques with the rift between Gamby and Russell.

KHG: Absolutely and I think that may have been part of their desire to write something that mirrors our adults lives whether we can see it or not. We have created and do create these cliques with people who are cool and people who are not, people who deserve our wrath <we are both laughing at this point> and people who do not.

JJ: Your character is also the odd one out of the clique circle because everyone else knows what's going in at the school except Dr. Brown.

KHG: I think that's the sinister nature of it all between these three characters. You have two people who are actively working to take someone out to get a job! That’s the nature of the comedy and the story. I believe that if Belinda even suspected what they were doing, both would have been gone day one. Its worse that Gamby and Russell are both actively and jointly trying to get rid of her. The beautiful flaw in her character is that she is so overwhelmed and consumed with her personal life that even when there are clues that should pull her in get past her because she needs the job for her own sanity. Then she tries to play Gandhi in many situations.

JJ: She has such a trusting nature in ways because lets be honest, you don't expect this behavior from staff. You go in with a great nature that takes such a dark turn.

KHG: She goes in ready to clean house within the first few episodes. You discover that these guys are horrible human beings and somehow perform their jobs leaving her to think they are good people. She has no idea of the personal crisis coming her way when they do what they do to her house. They have put things together in such a way that it's hard for her to know who is doing what. I don't know that Belinda is well meaning all the time, in fact that's why I think I love this character. She had to meet them where they were at some point.

JJ: I have to ask how much fun or not fun filming the last dark scene; I think you know which one I'm talking about.

KHG: I have to be completely honest and say it was my least comfortable, least favorable and least enjoyment. That moment I can not watch. I remember how I felt as Kimberly and I didn't want the world to see me doing that. It took a lot out of me. I remember a day or two before shooting that scene Danny and I were talking and we were waiting to do a scene and he said, 'how is it going?' I mean he is such an amazing guy and such care taken for me as an actor and a person who is new to their world. So when he asked how it was going I said, 'could you just take back that scene?’ He said, 'no we can't cut that!'

JJ: If it helps, what it did for me as a viewer is that you finally see this deep vulnerability. I mean when you are a principal you have to be the strong one, you have to show you can lead and solve problems. In that moment there is a scared vulnerability that is totally relatable as I thought man, I've been there before.

KHG: I knew that too when I read it. I read that scene and thought yep, that’s the one. When we had our meeting and they asked if I had any questions I said 'yep, I have a question'. I wanted to know how the scene was going to be done and it tested my personal insecurities. It was around then that I started to grow right along with Belinda; I mean she had to have that ending. It had to be that, it had to bad. I think part of me not wanting to do it was because I was so protective of my character. I wanted her to be in the world in such a way that we could all look at her and say 'yes, I know how that feels'. I felt like that for her to give up on so much that was going on in her life, drinking again.

JJ: I'm surprised your character didn't start drinking way before that!

KHG: Her whole experience was a difficult one to deal with that’s for sure.

JJ: I know it’s hard to talk about a series or give anything away for those who haven't seen the series yet, but what would you want viewers to know about your character that maybe only you know about her?

KHG: She is such a scared woman. I think that's the biggest thing. She is afraid about everything that is going on in her life, her job and inside she's afraid. That can manifest in so many different ways so for Belinda I think as a woman who works in a male driven position, you are your most vulnerable during all of those insecurities. I think that was the secret to her for me. I knew her and I know we all know her. No matter who you are we all know that place when a part of us says 'what are we doing?'

JJ:Exactly. Thank you so much for talking to me today. You are an amazing woman to have taken on this role and do it to the point of giving your character so many facets that we can all relate to. I appreciate you so much.

KHG: I really appreciate that Jeri; I hope that I answered your questions.

JJ: You did, and it makes it more fun when we can laugh about some of it.

KHG: Absolutely!

VICE PRINCIPLES: The First Season is a show you don’t see coming which makes it all the more worth a marathon watch. The series on Bluray, DVD and Digital Download pack this week from HBO Home Entertainment so might I suggest on this blustery weekend indoors that laughing be back in session.

In the end – we all need someone to look up to!

JOHN WICK: Chapter 2 Raises the Body Count!

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Chad Stahelski and Lionsgate is the return of the quiet man on a mission known as JOHN WICK: Chapter 2.

Still on the hunt for his beloved car, John Wick (Keanu Reeves) brings those events to a close and heads home. Not home 24-hours, there is a knock at the door and standing on the other side is Santino D’Antonio (Riccardo Scamarcio). Reminding that there is a debt owed, Wick turns him away with consequences.

Arriving at the Continental, manager Winston (Ian McShane) reminds Wick of the hard and fast rules to their line of work. Agreeing to fulfill his obligation to D’Antonio, Wick knows it’s the only way to get free of the life he no longer wants.

Going to Rome to handle D’Antonio’s request, he runs into colleague Cassian (Common) and that sets off a chase back to New York. Also following Wick is bodyguard and assassin Ares (Ruby Rose), who must report back to D’Antonio that she missed taking him out.

This causes a contract to be put out on Wick and everyone is being fearless trying to cash in. Wick turns to the Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne) trying to stop what could turn into a war on the streets of New York.

Every move he makes has a price that Wick is willing to pay!

Reeves as Wick is nothing short of frakken awesome! This is a character that clearly doesn’t need to say a lot because everyone knows what he is capable of. Nothing wrong with a man knowing what he will and will not accept from anybody. Reeves has the very cool ability to wrap a dark well-dressed bad guy and make him look like the good guy. Continuing to play the role of Wick solidifies Reeves as a huge action star and yes, the ladies still love him.

Scamarcio as D’Antonio is a man who thinks he knows what it takes to grab the world – at least in his mind. Feeling untouchable was his first mistake and thinking Wick would go away quietly makes him an idiot. Rose as Ares is equally as quiet as Wick but in a different way. She is smooth and seems to have no fear taking on the legend.

Fishburne as the Bowery King gets to enjoy mixing it up once again with his old pal Neo. His suave memory of the encounter with Wick puts these two on a level playing field. Common as Cassian is out to take down Wick as a matter of professional courtesy.

McShane as Winston is as smooth as you can get for the manager of a hotel that caters to a unique clientele. A stickler for the rules, he makes it very clear that he is the only one that can bend them. Trying to talk sense to Wick, he never raises his voice or hand – he has other people to do that.

There are some fantastic characters in this film including Peter Serafinowicz as the Sommelier, Luca Mosca as the Italian Tailor, Elli Meyer as the Pawnbroker, Chukwidi Iwuji as Akoni, Peter Stormare as Abram, and Franco Nero as Julius.

Other cast include Claudia Gerini as Gianna, Tobias Segal as Earl, Bridget Moynahan asHelen, Thomas Sadoski as Jimmy, John Leguizamo as Aurelio and Lance Reddick as Charon.

JOHN WICK: Chapter 2 is a film that doesn’t need my tubs of popcorn ratings. Reeves captured pretty much everybody becoming the character of JOHN WICK in 2014 and we’ve been waiting for his return.

At the screening the guys were pumped up and ready while the gals didn’t waste a second whistling when Reeves characters comes into the light in his nice black suit. It’s a nice mixture for a film that doesn’t need a second of introduction.

From the moment the film begins until the last frame, everyone was cheering, gasping, shouting ‘whoa!’ and cringing in their seats only to break out again cheering. It’s a physical and emotional workout of the best kind all wrapped up in car and people chases, fire fights, martial arts, twists, and turns all directed by the one man Wick army.

JOHN WICK: Chapter 2 just took us all away for one hundred and twenty-two minutes and there isn’t anything wrong with that in the slightest. It’s nice to be at the movies with a tub of popcorn and a room full of like minded excited people who just want to have an awesome time. Wick doesn’t want nor seek our approval which takes a load off making it easy to give it the big thumbs up – I mean it’s not like we’d cross him or anything right? RIGHT?

In the end – never stab the devil in the back!

THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE is Fun and Full of Surprises!

Jeri Jacquin

Batman is back from director Chris McKay, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Pictures is a block look into snap-life of THE LEGO BATMAN.

Bruce Wayne (Will Arnett) is a man living in the cowl of Batman. Living an isolated life, even Alfred (Ralph Fiennes) can’t get him to understand it’s time to engage in the world. Constantly saving Gotham from villains, one particular bad guy is working Batman’s last lego.

The Joker (Zach Galifianakis) has teamed up with Harley Quinn (Jenny Slate) to once again try and capture Gotham! When Batman lets the Joker know that there is no connection between them, the green haired bad boy needs to find another way to get Batman’s attention.

Also, a young Dick Grayson (Michael Cera) wants nothing more than to be part of Bruce Wayne’s orphans club. At Commissioner Gordon retirement party, daughter Barbara (Rosario Dawson) taking the job, she makes it clear that Batman needs to take a step back. All too quickly the party is interrupted by the Joker who makes an astonishing announcement.

Batman knows that the Joker is pulling something and decides to send him someplace not only far away, but in another dimension. Taking Dick, now Robin, on a mission of sorts, Batman seeks out the one thorn in his side – Superman (Channing Tatum). The plan is to get the weapon that will put Joker in the Phantom Zone.

What he didn’t expect is that the Joker had a bigger plan and now Batman needs to come to the realization that he can’t do this solo. To take back Gotham, the caped crusader turns to the most unlikely gang to save the city.

Arnett as Bruce Wayne/Batman is nothing but absolutely spectacular. Lets be serious here, this is a Lego character with very little facial expressions to speak of so the win is all in the voice of Arnett. From the moment the theatre lights dimmed, Arnett takes us into the Lego-psyche of the man in black. I knew from the 2014 THE LEGO MOVIE that Batman needed to have a film of his own, here it is and it’s awesome!

Galifianakis as The Joker is funny, emotional and down right stubborn. Wanting more from the Batman to validate him as a villain, he takes another tact that keeps Batman and Barbara uber suspicious. Galifianakis always makes his character vulnerable with an evil grin, as this particular Joker he is perfect.

Dawson as Barbara Gordon finally says out loud what most people think about Batman which makes him nuts. She’s tough, strong and has no problem kickin’ Lego and taking names.

Fiennes as Alfred Pennyworth is a butler/friend/father-figure to Bruce Wayne with the soft and supportive voice of Fiennes. Don’t let the soft voice fool you! Cera as Grayson/Robin is just looking for a family again. Of course being part of Bruce Wayne’s family is one thing but being part of Batman’s team is a whole other reason to put on a sparkly cape and goggles.

More of the amazing vocal cast include Jonah Hill, Jermaine Clement, Zoe Kravitz, Ellie Kemper, Kate Micucci, Adam Devine, Seth Green, Mariah Carey, Billy Dee Williams, Jason Mantzoukas, Riki Lindhome, Eddie Izzard, Doug Benson and Siri!

TUBS OF POPCORN: I give THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE five Lego’s out of five! From the moment the movie starts, the laughs begin and continue on past the credits. There is nothing better than forgetting you are watching an animated film because the laughter comes first.

There are plenty of fantastic lines beginning with the DC logo appearing and Batman announcing “DC - the house that Batman built”. Did you think this particular Batman wasn’t going to take the opportunities to say his piece? It doesn’t stop there as the film tackles prior Batman’s going back to the 1960’s, personal conflict with Superman, family issues and every imaginable thing in-between.

This is a truly great opportunity for families to get together. There are so many characters in the film its going to be fun to point them out to each other. Equally, there are so many cool references and one-liners I can guarantee that the laughs will never stop. I am refraining from mentioning too much because this is one of those times where it’s more important that everyone have fun with all the surprises coming.

So pack up the family and head out to the theatre because this is the best way to start out 2017 in animation with THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE!

In the end – always be yourself…unless you can be Batman!

The Highly Anticipated FIFTY SHADES DARKER Comes to Theatres

Jeri Jacquin

This Friday from director James Foley and Universal Pictures is the next chapter in the story of lovers who are becoming FIFTY SHADES DARKER.

Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) is still reeling after the break-up with Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan). Getting a job at a publishing company working for Jack Hyde (Eric Johnson), she keeps herself busy but it doesn’t stop Christian from reaching out. During a night out, Christian shows up asking Anastasia to please speak with him and she agrees.

While at dinner they talk about where their relationship needs to be before Anastasia would even consider reconnecting. That is when Christian begins to understand that he can no longer hide if he is to have her and explains parts of his past. Feeling that love between them might be possible, Anastasia is thrilled.

So is Christian’s mother Grace (Marcia Gay Harden) when the couple arrives at party being thrown at the Grey estate. Anastasia sees Elena Lincoln (Kim Basinger) who promptly lets her know that her happiness isn’t going to last. Upset by her words, the couple leaves the party only to deal with another disturbing event caused by a young woman named Leila (Bella Heathcote).

Trying to keep Anastasia protected, it seems as if their problems are coming from all around as Christian tries to maintain control.

Because in their world it is all about control.

Johnson as Anastasia wastes no time wanting to work things out with Christian. Jumping right back into a crazy life, this time she has more to say about their situation. That is perhaps the most I can say about the growth of Johnson’s character. I would say more but the rest of the time is spent doing, well, wardrobe changes.

Dornan as Grey does the most personal evaluating when he finally starts to come clean about his past. There is still more to discover I’m sure but at least there are some answers to make fans happy. Dornan isn’t as angry looking in this film giving Christian smiles and a sense of humor previously lacking.

Basinger as Elena is definitely a problem child who is clearly not happy that Christian has won Anastasia back. She gives us a little 9 ½ WEEKS smoldering and not in a good way. Taking on the Grey’s wasn’t the smartest thing she could have done. Heathcote as Leila is a woman in pain and she wants everyone else to suffer, especially Anastasia.

Speaking of the Grey’s, Harden as Grace is elegant, beautiful and thrilled Anastasia is back. Ora as Mia is flighty and Grimes as brother Elliot is still hot and heavy for Anastasia’s roommate Eloise played by Kavanagh.

Other cast include Kate Kavanagh as Eloise, Rita Ora as Mia Grey, Luke Grimes as Elliot Grey, Victor Rasuk as Jose, Andrew Airlie as Carrick Grey, Robinne Lee as Ros Bailey and Max Martini as Taylor.

TUBS OF POPCORN: I give FIFTY SHADES DARKER three tubs of popcorn out of five. Although the storyline in this installment is fairly straight forward, it would have been better had it gone uninterrupted. What I mean by that is every fifteen minutes clothes were flying off and there isn’t much of the raciness of the first film.

Actually, to be honest, Anastasia’s joke of their new vanilla life is an understatement. The first film enticed viewers with an alternate sexual lifestyle only to have it squashed in this film under the guise of Christian ‘changing’. By the films end there have been answered questions and new enemies setting up what is sure to come in the third installment.

Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey remain the hot couple that bring people into the theatres for a shared experience. That’s exactly what audiences will get with FIFTY SHADES DARKER, twists, turns, answers and plenty of tension and wardrobe changes.

In the end – every fairy tale has a dark side!