TOP TEN in Film and Television in 2024

This has been a fantastic year for film and television. These are my Top Ten films, with a few runners up for good measure. Taking it a bit further, here are my Top Ten in television as well with a few runners up.

See if your favorites made my cut!

TOP TEN FILMS OF 2024

1.      Deadpool & Wolverine – Marvel Studios

2.      Anora – Neon

3.      Longlegs – Neon

4.      The Wild Robot – Universal

5.      Inside Out 2 – Walt Disney Animation

6.      Conclave – Focus Features

7.      The Last Showgirl – Roadside Attractions

8.      Monkey Man – Universal

9.      Memoir of a Snail – Modern Films

10.  How to Make a Million Before Grandma Dies – Well Go USA

 

Runners Up

1.      ISS – Bleecker Street

2.      The Monk & The Gun – Roadside Attractions

3.      Red One – MGM

4.      The Brutalist – A24

5.      Kensuke’s Kingdom – Blue Fox Entertainment

 

 

TOP TEN IN TELEVISION OF 2024

 

1.      Shogun – F/X

2.      Before – Apple TV

3.      Landman – Paramount

4.      Those About to Die – Peacock

5.      From – MGM

6.      Dune Prophecy - Max

7.      Mind Hunters – Netflix

8.      Dark Matter – Apple TV

9.      Teacup – Peacock

10.  Squid Games Season 2 - Netflix

 

Runners Up

1.      The Tattooist – Netflix

2.      Manhunt – Apple TV

3.      Masters of the Air – Apple TV

4.      Aaron Hernandez: American Sports Story – F/X

5.      The Summit – Amazon Prime

THE LAST SHOWGIRL

 

Jeri Jacquin

In theatres from director Gia Coppola and Roadside Attractions is the story of the life of THE LAST SHOWGIRL.

Shelly (Pamela Anderson) has spent thirty-years in a show called Razzle Dazzle in Las Vegas as one of its dazzling showgirls. A few of the younger showgirls, Mary-Anne (Brenda Song) and Jodie (Kiernan Shipka) look to Shelly for advice and friendship. Stage manager Eddie (Dave Bautista) keeps the show running like clockwork and the girls where they need to be during performances. Shelly’s best friend Annette (Jamie Lee Curtis) is a cocktail waitress who has the same Las Vegas mileage on her shoes.

Attempting to keep up with the younger dancers, it comes as a shock to her when Eddie finally comes clean to tell the girls that the show will be closing. This is the only life Shelly knows and now she needs to do what she hasn’t done in 30 years, audition for other shows. Life shifts again when Hannah (Billie Lourd) comes to town wanting answers to years of unanswered questions. Shelly is hardly in the mood to deal with it and leans on Annette as they both wonder where the time has gone.

As the show draws to a close, Shelly is going to make sure that everything about her final performance is bathed in the glitter and shine of Las Vegas!

Anderson as Shelly comes across as a showgirl who is happy with her life choices, even if they do not always settle right with others. The show is her life and as thirty years brings it to a close, so does the reality that once was can not be again. I loved watching Anderson take on this character from beginning to end with a bit of a young girls naiveness packaged in a showgirls wake up call. It is a wonderful performance.

Curtis as Annette tries to ignore the problems of a woman working in Las Vegas. Seeing the younger women coming up, their tips are better and the attention focused on them. The friendship with Shelly is one of understanding and realization that they both can not continue in the lights. Lourd as Hannah has a whole magazine rack full of issues and she doesn’t hesitate to throw it all out toward Shelly. Their relationship is complicated and conflicting as Lourd gives her character moments of forgiveness.

Song as Mary-Anne is extraordinary in this role who hasn’t given as much to the stage as Shelly and tries to truly understand how the show ending will effect her. Shipka as Jodie is someone that relies on Shelly for motherly advice and is the opposite of Mary-Anne in that Jodie only sees how the world has an effect on her.

Bautista as Eddie is a rather quiet man who knows how to do his job. He is the only person who doesn’t feel the strain of the show ending but tries to be compassionate in his own unique way toward the girls. The relationship between Shelly and Eddie has its own set of complications as well. Bautista is quiet in nature and a full head of hair so there’s that.

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

THE LAST SHOWGIRL has garnered such awards from the San Sebastian International Film Festival with a Special Jury Prize for the cast, Zurich Film Festival’s Golden Eye Award, SCAD Savannah Film Festival, Miami Film Festival and Winter IndieWire Honor Awards for Pamela Anderson, Outstanding Feature Narrative from the Newport Beach Film Festival, and Astra Film Awards.

The film is written by Kate Gersten who takes on the task of telling the story of a woman who has spent the greater part of her life in one show. As the film progresses, it becomes clear what this life has cost the showgirl and Shelly comes to terms with those choices. In an odd way, this is what I would have envisioned the character of Nomi from the 1995 SHOWGIRLS life would have ended up being has she stayed in Las Vegas!

Beautifully shot, the film is also kept quite simple which gives the actors the spotlight perfectly. Each character is given enough time to show how they fit into Shelly’s life while, at the same time, the true story of her life comes into full view. Everything about the film carries with it the air of total believability that this could actually happen to a showgirl. Anderson captures this role and Coppola provides the stage to let the character razzle dazzle one last time. Brava!

In the end -  this is her last call!

 

 

The Fear of NOSFERATU

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently in theatres from writer/director Robert Eggers and Focus Features comes another retelling of the story of NOSFERATU.

Ellen Hutter (Lily-Rose Depp) is a young woman living with her husband Thomas (Nicholas Hoult) in Germany. As an estate agent, Thomas is hoping that his position as Schloss Grunewald will give him an opportunity to bring a wonderful life for his wife. Called in to see his employer Herr Knock (Simon McBurney), Thomas is told that he would be traveling to visit the recluse Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgard) who wishes to purchase property in Wisborg.

Thomas asks friends Friedrich Harding (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and wife Anna (Emma Corrin) to look after Ellen as he travels to Transylvania. Arriving after weeks, he is greeted with hostility by the Romani townsfolk and witnesses a ritual that is shocking. Having to make the rest of the journey to Orlok’s castle, he is greeted by Orlok and the appearance is disturbing to Thomas. Yet, he does what he must to finish the paperwork so he can return home to Ellen.

Lord Orlok has other plans and it includes also wanting to return to see the lovely young Ellen. Thomas realizes that he must escape before the nightmares and their effects consume him. Near death, his makes his way home without realizes that Ellen is also suffering melancholy to be confronted by scientist Albin Eberhart Von Franze (Willem Dafoe). Olek has no choice but to sail for Wisborg in a rat infested ship, using the scurrying creatures to cause havoc in his new hometown met by Knock.

Wisborg is struck by the plague and Thomas attempts to regain his strength as Ellen realizes that her own dreams and nightmares are caused by one thing. Now, Thomas, Dr. Wilhelm Sievers (Ralph Ineson), Von Granze and Ellen must come together with a plan that can put a stop to the madness and destruction happening in their town.  

Hoult as Thomas is a man that clearly wants a standard of life for himself and wife Ellen. Accepting an assignment that could bring him financial reward, it could never have imagined what was truly to come. Hoult has truly spent the last few years covering almost every genre of film and standing out. In this film he is challenged with horror and a bit of bravery all in the name of love. Depp as Ellen is clearly a woman who suffers from a strange malady. Finding refuge in her marriage, it is only a temporary reprieve. Depp gives her character the look of a woman struggling to discover what is true in her life and what is madness.

Skarsgard as Orlok is a strange character but that is nothing new for this actor. The mystery is in how Orlok truly looks which is masked by shadows. The other problem for me is that the attempted accent muddled the speech so much I gave up trying to understand him. Pennywise and Orlok do have a lot in common and that’s where Skarsgard wins. Dafoe as Von Franze comes across as slightly rattled in his own mind with zippy Shakespearean one liners causing a bit of chaos trying to convince everyone that there is a vampire present.

Taylor-Johnson as Fredrich is a wealthy man who befriends Thomas and Ellen. He loves his wife and children and as the world becomes unhinged, Taylor-Johnson character has a difficult time grasping the reality of the situation. Corrin as Anna loves her friendship with Ellen and is distraught at her condition. There is nothing Corrin’s character Anna won’t do for Ellen and it may cost her.

McBurney as Knock is the servant of Orlok but that doesn’t mean his opportunity to cause a little mayhem on his own isn’t possible. Creepy and dedicated, every opportunity McBurney is on screen is a chance to shock. Ineson as Sievers is a former student of Von Franze and doctor to Ellen. Seeking help to discover the cause of a young woman’s malady, he knows that his mentor may be a little off, but brilliant none-the-less.

Focus Features’ mission is to make a lasting impact on global audiences by creating the home for artists to share diverse, distinctive stories that inspire human connection. Focus Features is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies that brings entertainment and news to a global audience. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.focusfeatures.com.

NOSFERATU is a film that is grey, dark and filled with vampyric folklore. That being said, I was not overwhelmed by it at all. It felt campy, with overdramatic characters that felt more like this should be a stage production and not a film. Changing the names and locations just didn’t work for me as it felt more like Eggers was trying to create a different vampire story. That’s fine but then do just that – be original and stay out of another writers back yard.

The cinematography was beautifully done with the exception of a few wonky camera sweeps and the music added a nice touch of eerie to the scenes. However, the 1992 film BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA continues to be my standard and this film hasn’t changed that opinion. It is unfortunate that NOSFERATU could not find its footing because, and let’s be honest, we want to see, understand and be scared of the being in the coffin and Orlok just isn’t any of these things.

Personally, it is not a good sign when the audience is talking and giggling during the film constantly and leaving after disappointed.

In the end – succumb to the darkness!

 

Online Association of Female Film Critics 2024 Awards – Winners

The Online Association of Female Film Critics today announced their 2024 award winners for achievement in film. For the first time in the Association’s history, there is a tie for Best Film.

For a list of winners please visit:

https://oaffc.com/2024/12/23/online-association-of-female-film-critics-2024-awards-winners/

The Story of SATURDAY NIGHT

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray, DVD and currently on Digital from director Jason Reitman and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the story of the beginnings of SATURDAY NIGHT.

It is October 11^th, 1975 and Lorne Michaels (Gabriel LaBelle) is attempting to pull off something revolutionary for television in the NBC building. Bringing together young comedians and writers to pull of a comedy show is not as easy as it may sound. Ninety minutes before the show goes live, Michaels is trying to coral his players consisting of Chevy Chase (Cory Michael Smith), Gilda Radner (Ella Hunt), Dan Aykroyd (Dylan O’Brien), Laraine Newman (Emily Fairn), Garrett Morris (Lamorne Morris), Jane Curtin (Kim Matula) and John Belushi (Matt Wood).

When not dealing with their antics, he is wrangling the talent of Andy Kaufman (Nicholas Braun), Billy Preston (Jon Batiste), Jim Henson (Nicholas Braun), and George Carlin (Matthew Rhys). Keeping him moving forward is wife Rosie (Rachel Sennott) and Dick Ebersol (Cooper Hoffman) and the later is up against David Tebet (Willem Dafoe).

Fighting the clock, Michaels deals with Belushi and his dramatics, Morris who brings up his existential problem of “why am I here?”, Jim Henson and puppet issues, writers who think going up against the censor is a sport, Carlin who has his own opinion of what Michaels is trying to do, Milton Berle (J.K. Simmons) taking on the youngsters, and Johnny Carson having his own input.

Michaels learns that the jokes are on him when Ebersol comes clean with what NBC really had planned for the show. Having a meltdown, he finds a second wind of belief in what they are all trying to accomplish with the show and because of that, every Saturday after that, the world waits to hear LIVE FROM NEW YORK! IT’S SATURDAY NIGHT!

Labelle as Michaels runs through this film from start to finish putting out fires and dealing with drama from the big wigs upstairs to the little guy laying bricks on the stage. There is barely a scene that Labelle isn’t in and by the end I was absolutely dog tired even though I never left my seat. He gives us a fast-paced look at the first show and it is absolutely stunning with Labelle at the head of a shaky ship. Sennot as Rosie is Michael’s partner in the madness and she’s the one running around with a bucket of water for most of the fires.

Smith as Chase is charming and the biggest wise cracker of the bunch. That all comes to a stand still when confronted the likes of Milton Berle. Hunt as Radner is giddy to be a part of the cast, Fairn as Newman wonders where she fits in between Radner and Curtin, Matula as Curtin is quick and is willing to try anything to get the laugh. Morris as Morris is trying to fit in and that’s difficult when he sees himself as an Italian opera singer! O’Brien as Aykroyd must have study his character because I fell into his portrayal swiftly and made me laugh.

Braun gets the opportunity to play both the roles of Andy “Here He Comes to Save the Day” Kaufman and Jim “they are messing with my puppets” Henson. How fantastic that he does both and does them exceedingly well. Rhys as Carlin is playing one of the most iconic funny men of the time. Hoffman as Ebersol tries to keep Micheals on track but also knows something that he doesn’t and struggles with it.

Shout out to Willem Dafoe as Tebet and Simmons as Berle are both absolutely amazing in the film. Dafoe as the kind of slick haired smooth talker for Michaels but has an ace up his sleeve. Simmons is perfection as Milton Berle and his confrontation with Chase, Simmons gives us an Uncle Miltie that is jaw dropping.

Other cast include Finn Wolfhard as the NBC page, Ellen Boscov as Mrs. Kaufman, Andrew Feldman as Neil Levy, Leander Suleiman as Anne Beatts, Taylor Gray as Al Franken, Mcabe Gregg as Tom Davis, Abraham Hsu as Leo Yoshimura, Corinne Britti as Valri Bromfield, Rowan Joseph as Jim Fox, Kirsty Woodward as Audrey Dickman, Kaia Gerber as Jacqueline Carlin, Robert Wuhl as Dave Wilson, Drew Scheid as Bob Pook, Tommy Dewey as Michael O’Donoghue, Catherine Curtin as Joan Carbunkle, Josh Brener as Alan Zweibel, Paul Rust as Paul Schaffer, and Brian Welch as Don Pardo.

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

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Special Features include The Making of the Movie of The Show That Almost Never Made It, Filmmaker Commentary and more!

SATURDAY NIGHT is a fast-paced film that delves deep into the opening night of SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. It is a fantastic film and a wonderful way to learn about the beginnings of a show that still runs today – fifty seasons later! For my generation, there was nothing better in the world than gathering up friends, having a potluck, everyone bringing their favorite drink and sitting together on a Saturday night to laugh ourselves onto the floor. We understood the jokes, the underlying censor-pass humor, Land Shark!, Julia Childs aka Dan Aykroyd bleeding vigorously and John Belushi in a bee costume.

That’s what made this show and continues to make this show exciting, fun and a bit daring at times. Seeing how the first night came to be is just so amazing and Reitman, along with writer Gil Kenan, left no brick unlayed with the antics of the crew, the cast and those slinking around it all looking for a reason to pull the plug. SATURDAY NIGHT is a lesson in believing (especially in barrier breaking comedy) and how an idea can still resonate 45-years later. Hopefully friends are still gathering, potlucking and byob’ing.

In the end - the revolution begins at 11:30 p.m.!

A Herzog Epic Tale with AGUIRRE, THE WRATH OF GOD

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on 4K Ultra HD for the first time from writer/producer/director Werner Herzog and Shout! Studios comes a tale of greed with AGUIRRE, THE WRATH OF GOD.

It is 1560 and Spanish conquistadors are marching through the Incan Empire into the Amazon rainforest looking for El Dorado. These men, along with hundreds of slaves under the control of Gonzalo Pizarro (Alejandro Repulles) are pulling cannons and women in carriers through vines, mud and anything else the jungle has for them.

Pizarro decides to build rafts to go down the river and orders Don Pedro de Ursua (Ruy Guerra), along with his mistress Dona Ines (Helena Rojo) and daughter Flores (Cecilia Rivera), to take men with the order to be back in one week. Along with Ursua is Don Lope de Aguirre (Klaus Kinski), a second-in-command and Don Fernando de Guzman (Peter Berling) speaking for the Spanish crown. Also going on the river is Brother Gaspar de Carvajal (Del Negro) to bring the word of God to all he finds.

Another of the rafts is caught in the rapids and by the next morning the men are dead or missing. Pizarro wants to retrieve the men but Aguirre has other plans and so do the natives. When Ursua wants to turn back to Pizarro, Aguirre tells the men of all the riches of El Dorado and convinces the men to continue on with him. Bringing on Guzman as their new leader, they keep moving down the river. Moment after moment brings more tension to the men as they decide who it is they are going to follow.

Finally, Aguirre declares that he is the rightful leader as everyone aboard the raft begins to suffer becoming malnourished and still under the attack of the natives. Aguirre comes face to face with the choices he has made!

Kinski as Aguirre looks, from the very onset, like someone you wouldn’t want to cross paths with. He is devious, cunning and has eyes for only one thing – El Dorado. Kinski gives us all the looks without necessarily the words to know exactly what Aguirre is willing to do and what to do to those who get in the way of his plans. Guerra as Ursua is the first leader and has the audacity to bring his mistress and daughter into such a dangerous and desolate place filled with natives who have no time for intruders. By the time he realizes that it might be best to turn back – he is up against those who want the riches.

Negro as Brother Carvajal wants to reach the natives with the good book, the problem is he can’t get close enough to them for that to happen. When he sees what is happening aboard the raft, he begins to understand what is happening to the men and the danger they are all in. Berling as Guzman is gullible, misguided and has no thought for his own men which becomes clear to everyone on the raft but serves Aguirre’s purpose.

Shout out to Rojo as Ines for doing the exact thing I would have done surrounded by a bunch of greedy men.

Other cast include Daniel Ades as Perucho, Edward Roland as Okello, and Justo Gonzalez as Gonzalez.

SHOUT! Studios 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! Studios has to offer please visit www.shoutfactory.com.

AGUIRRE, THE WRATH OF GOD on 4K Ultra HD and Bluray on both Discs Bonus Features include New 4K Transfer of the 35mm Original Camera Negative, New Presented in Dolby Vision, Audio Commentary with Writer/Producer/Director Werner Herzog, and Audio Commentary with Werner Herzog, Moderated by Lauren Straub (in German with English Subtitles).

AGUIRRE, THE WRATH OF GOD is an epic tale that Herzog released in 1972. It is not a film with consistent dialogue but instead allows the viewer an opportunity to come up with their own views of each of the characters and the surroundings they are in. The director says of the film that “history doesn’t change, and that the desire for power and wealth is always a drug.”

Admitting that the plot of the film is fictional, he does bring 16-century events and historical figures to the story. He also admits that no one wanted to finance his film until a company in France picked it up. He says that he wrote the screenplay in three days on a bus full of drunk soccer players. Herzog is a storyteller that brings in a haunting tale here filled with realism in men believing they have the right to ravage natives for riches and natives making it clear that they will protect what is theirs.

In the end – it is the search for El Dorado!

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Jeff Fowler and Paramount Pictures is the next adventure for the team with SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3.

Sonic (Ben Schwartz), Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) and Knuckles (Idris Elba) are spending a little quality time with Doughnut Lord Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter). That is one of the gangs’ favorite things to do and they are soaking it up until a helicopter from G.U.N. shows up and Director Rockwell (Krysten Ritter) tells the three that they need help. With what?

Well, there is a new hedgehog on the loose named Shadow (Keanu Reeves) and he is angry and destructive. Sonic quickly realizes that his hostility is going to be difficult for Tails and Knuckles so it is decided they are going to call on the one person who might be able to help – Dr. Ivo Robotnik (Jim Carrey). Agent Stone (Lee Majdoub) brings the group before a dilapidated Eggman but once he discovers what is happening to some of his hardware, he doctors up and agrees to help.

That is until he discovers who is responsible for Shadow plus the chaos and its none other than – well, I’ll let you find out for yourself. Robotnik is thriller at the chance to once again be a part of the master plan that calls for putting the hedgehogs in danger. With a new sense of purpose and a new, very tight outfit, Robotnik and his new friends are taking aim at G.U.N.

Now Sonic, Tails and Knuckles must do what they do best, find clever ways to outsmart Shadow and Robotnik before they carry out their twisted plan for revenge, each for their own reasons!

Schwartz voicing Sonic gets to, once again, come up with fast talk, fast one-liners and going fast on his feet. This character is so very funny and if you don’t think so then you might want to ask Santa for a new funny bone. O’Shaughnessey voicing Tails is the smart hedgehog who understands how to create and work technology – and, to quote Agent Stone, Tails is “adorable”. Elba voicing Knuckles is the muscle of the bunch who finds no problem in fighting and has no problem offering up his services.

Marsden as Doughnut Lord Tom is so supportive of the hedgehog gang. He treats them as family and offers up fatherly advice when needed. He also finds himself in the middle of the action whether he wants to or not but its not always a bad thing. Sumpter as Maddie supports the hedgehogs just as much as her husband Tom does. When the couple gets an opportunity to spend time alone together, it doesn’t take long before Maddie is happy to join the gang on an adventure.

Carrey as Dr. Robotnik is absolutely stellar, hilarious and falls back into this role with ease. He is a total crack-up with his one-liners and even a few references that you have to be quick to catch. I’m so happy to see Carrey again in any capacity but, to be honest, my family truly adores him as Dr. Robotnik. So having Dr. Robotnik during Grinch season is everything we could have asked for from Santa.

Reeves as the newest hedgehog Shadow gets to be the dark presence of power. He has a bone to pick with anyone that has been a part of his 50-year captivity and has no problem showing what he can do. Reeves voice goes deep and lets us know from the beginning that he is a force on a mission. Majdoub as Agent Stone is still loyal to Dr. Robotnik, even when he feels like something is coming between them. Majdoub gives his role the middle-man appearance because he cares about his boss but also is curious about the hedgehogs!

Shout out to Ritter as Director Rockwell. Her character doesn’t trust anyone and both sides keep her on her toes!

Other cast include Jorma Taccone as Kyle, Sofia Pernas as Gabriella, Cristo Fernandez as Pablo, Natasha Rothwell as Rachel, Shemar Moore as Randall, Tom Butler as Commander Walters, Adam Pally as Wade Whipple, and Alyla Browne as Maria.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 has so much going for it. First of all, the special effects are so much fun and amazingly done. Then we have the story of three hedgehogs that are part of Tom and Maddie’s family to the point that they can not imagine their lives without them. There is also the story of a friendship and teamwork that Sonic, Tails and Knuckles hold dear and is put to the test. Dr. Robotnik returns with a bit of a story all his own as well and the addition of another hedgehog in Shadow who also has a story to tell.

Normally, that would be a lot of stories to tell but here it works! There isn’t a moment to take a breath because everything plays out in a fast (what did you expect, its Sonic!) paced adventure scene after scene. I love the wit behind the one-liners and, if you are as quick as they are, you’ll catch things that will have you saying, “whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?” and then laughing hard. There is humor for the kids and for the adults and sometimes they meet in the middle. The applause during the movie was a fun surprise. It reminded us all the reasons why Sonic became so popular in the first place and yes, I still have my original Sega and we will be playing the game later tonight.

Just in time for the holidays, SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 means a fantastically fun time at the theatre for those of us who remember Sonic’s start, to families that have been following his rise over these many years and those who have caught on to the fun in recent years. Basically, it means a good time will be had by all!

In the end – new adventure and new rival!

MUFASA: The Lions King

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Barry Jenkins and Walt Disney Studios comes the story of two brothers and one MUFASA: The Lion King.

Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) is a young cub who, after an accident, finds himself alone in the world. He meets Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) after rescuing him and convinces his mother Eshe (Thandie Newton) to take him in. The one lion who isn’t happy is Obasi (Lennie James) who sees Mufasa as a stray that needs to be away from him son.

As Mufasa grows, so does the teachings of Eshe! He has learned to be still and reach out to the vastness of his world. He and Taka remain friends and when the pride is under attack, Obasi sees that Mufasa is a force to be reckoned with. Mufasa is put to the test again when a pride of white lions led by Kiros is destroying prides and taking everything for his own. Obasi tells Mufasa that he must take Taka and keep the bloodline.

On the road they meet Sarabi (Tiffany Boone) and her trusted bird Zazu (Preston Nyman). Agreeing to continue on, they also meet Rafiki (John Kani) who has a way about him that is intriguing to Mufasa. That doesn’t mean the white lions aren’t hot on their trail. When they arrive at their destination, Mufasa attempts to make the animals understand that they must fight Obasi together or lose their beautiful home.

Pierra as Mufasa lends his voice to the orphaned lion who is raised by Eshe after becoming lost to his own family. His voice gives us the feeling of loss, of growing up, of Mufasa finding his place in the plains of Africa and of becoming a leader he was always meant to be. Harrison Jr. lends his voice to Taka, beginning as a young cub who befriends Mufasa and sees him as a brother, to having a complicated relationship with his father. Taka is also attempting to discover where he fits in and coming to terms with his own fears.

James as Obasi believes being a leader is to parade around being judgmental and lying in the sun while everyone else does the heavy lifting. The one thing Obasi is sure of is keeping the bloodline when it all comes under attack. Newton as Eshe is a loving substitute mother for Mufasa and sees potential and encourages it when no one else in his adoptive pride does. Everything she believes about Mufasa is based on his instincts and receptiveness to learning.

Boone as Sarabi is a princess in her pride but having been chased off, she teams up with Mufasa and Taka along with her own personal winged protection in Zazu. She is strong willed and perfectly capable of handling situations as they arise. Nyman as Zazu is more confident than anyone else and has no problem saying so. He is also quite funny and charming in his own right.

Kani as Rafiki is the calmest of the new “pride” that has banded together. He knows what he knows and doesn’t get ruffled by much. Getting Mufasa, Taka, Sarabi and Zazu to Malaylay is his mission and they honestly couldn’t have made it without him. I just love the very straight forward fun Kami brings to Rafiki and its all bundle around such love.

Other cast include Billy Eichner as Timon, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Anika Noni Rose as Afia, Keith David as Masego, Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, Tho Somolu as Taka cub, Kagiso Lediga as young Rafiki, Donald Glover as Simba.

MUFASA: The Lion King should do well at the box office because it is being released during a time when kids are out of school and families are looking for holiday fun together. The small lions are charming and it’s nice to see Pumbaa and Timon again as they are still as wild and silly as ever. The adult lions show the relationships between prides, being a stray, brotherhood, belief, and what can happen when power corrupts absolutely.

The live-action special effects give the animals the look of reality with big paws, big claws and flowing fur mixed in with emotion in their eyes and strength in their voices. All of that lends itself to telling the story of Mufasa and how he became the unexpected King of Pride Rock. Jenkins and Disney seem to have taken great pains to make sure that the original 1994 THE LION KING story meshes in with MUFASA: The Lion King and that makes all the difference.

So, gather up your own pride this holiday weekend and return to Pride Rock for the story we didn’t know about MUFASA: The Lion King.

In the end – from orphan and outsider to King!

 

 

 

Bluray Brings the Secrets of CONCLAVE Home!

 

Jeri Jacquin

On Bluray, DVD and coming to Digital from director Edward Berger based on the Robert Harris book of the same name and Focus Features is the story of secrets and desires for power in the CONCLAVE.

Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) arrives at the Vatican to discover that the Pope has passed. Gathering his emotions, he knows that now he must organize the election of the next head of the church. Turning to Cardinal Bellini (Stanley Tucci), they talk of the grief and who the rest of the cardinals are thinking of supporting.

Almost immediately there are three, Cardinal Adeyemi (Lucian Msamati), Cardinal Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto) and Cardinal Tremblay (John Lithgow) who quietly make it known of their desire to be the next Pope. Preparing for the conclave, Sister Agnes (Isabella Rossellini) brings other sisters in to prepare the rooms and cook the meals for the cardinals.

Cardinal Lawrence attempts to accommodate everyone and everything – especially the unexpected arrival of Cardinal Benitez (Carlos Diehz). This Cardinal is unknown to any but when presented papers from the previous Pope, Lawrence accepts him into the group even as the others are suspicious. Unfortunately, there isn’t any time to go deeper as the voting must begin.

There is no surprise that the three candidates are going to head-to-head with the votes, what it a surprise is a vote for Cardinal Lawrence. Shrugging it off, he begins to hear whispers of issues regarding the cardinals and he is not going to let it go, even if Cardinal Bellini suggest it is the best way to handle situations.

The problem is, now that Cardinal Lawrence has gone down the rabbit hole, he is confronted with the loss of a friend and a connection he could have never possibly ever seen.

Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence is absolutely the film in every way. There isn’t a scene where his portrayal of this character isn’t stunning. He is the anchor to this story with his calm manner as he tries to navigate what is a gambit of secrets all in the name of faith. Not wanting the position himself, he actually isn’t looking to rise but to scale back to a simpler life. That is what Fiennes gives us – the duality of a man who has his own desires and must confront the powerful desires to rise of other men. This actor’s career has shown his diversity and legendary in the choices of roles he takes and Fiennes is an actor that if I know he is in a film – I’m there.

Tucci as Cardinal Bellini makes it clear that he does not want the position but he is adamant about who does. Believing that the changes the previous pope made strengthened their faith and those who trusted their religious leaders. He doesn’t want a reversal of it all and sees some of the candidates as a threat to it all. Tucci, as always, just takes the role and runs full speed with it. Of course, I am in the Tucci fan club and this role cements my belief that you can throw any role at this exceptional actor and he will make it stick!

Rossellini as Sister Agnes is the eyes and ears of everything around her. Believing deeply in the church and what is requires of the faith, she is not going to let anyone interfere just to be the new pope. Her stern appearance reminds me of a nun who would have no problem whacking your knuckles with a ruler but also a compassionate human being. There is her roles duality. Rossellini continues to show that there is a place for her still in films, are you listening Hollywood?

Lithgow as Cardinal Tremblay presents himself in a way that gave me the icks immediately. The words coming out of his mouth seem sincere but yet… That’s what makes this such a powerful role for Lithgow and he is amazing every second he is on the screen. Msamati as Cardinal Adeyemi believes he is the change the Vatican needs and makes his determination quietly clear to supporters. Msamati gives his part of the story a punch that the audience will be wide eyed about. Castellitto as Cardinal Tedesco is outspoken, rough in his beliefs and has no problem coming face to face with anyone who challenges him. Castellitto gives his character the outspoken fierceness that rocks the vote – literally.

The surprise here is Diehz as Cardinal Benitez! Arriving to bring a ripple in the waters, Diehz’ character is soft spoken, aware of what his presence brings to the conclave and a belief that is unshakable. Diehz is a strong presence in this role without overtaking any scene and the reason for this character’s presence shakes the films foundation completely.

Other cast include Brian F. O’Byrne as Monsignor Raymond O’Malley, Merab Ninidze as Cardinal Sabbadin, Thomas Loibl as Archbishop Mandorff, Jacek Koman as Archibishop Wozniak and Loris Loddi as Cardinal Villanueva.

Focus Features’ mission is to make a lasting impact on global audiences by creating the home for artists to share diverse, distinctive stories that inspire human connection. Focus Features is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies that brings entertainment and news to a global audience. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.focusfeatures.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Exclusive Bonus Features include: Sequestered Inside CONCLAVE – Enter the mysterious world of CONCLAVE with the cast and filmmakers for a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to raise the curtain on one of the most secretive and secluded processes in the world, Feature Commentary with Director Edward Berger – Commentary with director Edward Berger.

CONCLAVE is a thriller but not the kind that is filled with car chases and people running for their lives. Instead, this is a thriller that is confined in a space that doesn’t allow secrets to go undiscovered for long. Fiennes carries this film from the first frame to the last and his character takes us on a ride of faith, deception, secrets and the want for power. Cardinal Lawrence begins to understand his reason for being and Fiennes portrays it all so beautifully. If he isn’t up for an Oscar, then those who chose need to think about their life choices!

The construction of the set is so beautiful and it is, in fact, another character in the film. Each scene is surrounded by a history and a belief that is steeped in tradition and mystery. CONCLAVE uses that tradition and mystery to bring the Harris book to the screen in such a fantastic way with an ensemble cast that slowly bring us in for the thrill ride.

In the end – what happens behind these walls changes everything!

The Secrets of THE PROGRAM

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Digital from acclaimed Ufologist, filmmaker, director James Fox and narrated by Peter Coyote from Lab 9 Films is a look at how the search for answers regarding the question ‘are we alone?’ continues with THE PROGRAM.

UAPs (Unidentified Areal Phenomenon) are back in the headlines and being talked about in the United States Government. Speaking before Congress, those who know or have discovered there is more hidden, believe it is time to bring it out in the open. In 2023, Chuck Schumer (D) of New York and Mike Round (R) of South Dakota want transparency about UAPs. In a Congressional document, they ask about any remains of possible UAPs. Joining the conversation is Leslie Kean, an investigative reporter who discovers that the Pentagon is part of all the secrecy.

There are interviews and video that cause a 2017 resurgence of interest. This forces the Pentagon to admit there is something out there. US Pilot Ryan Graves, in 2015, had seen such UAPs. Kirk McConnell, Senate Armed Services Committee, between 2017 and 2024, has researched and confirmed the UAPs saying the Navy knows about the crafts and their speed and maneuver capabilities. Christopher Melon, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, realizes it is time to get to the bottom of it all. The activity is, as Melon says, so prolific. Pilots are now required to report UAPs without fear of retribution.

All of this push forces the Pentagon to release information confirming there was a “demonstration of advanced technology” and the number of near-misses by pilots. In May of 2022, it is brought out that 50 years ago, Project Bluebook was cancelled. In 2017, Congress learns a similar program had begun. Scott Bray and Roger Moltrie are brought to Congress to answer hard hitting questions. Bray talks about an incident in 2014 on the USS Nimitz off the San Diego coastline. It was Melon who brought the story to the New York Times. He finds the deck logs for that period of time are now missing!

The “Admiral Wilson” memo speaks about an ultra-secret UAP crash. The memo states that they have a craft. Dr. Hal Puthoff, former Senior Advisor on UAP Program, researches crash retrievals but has signed security oaths so his hands are tied. He doesn’t believe what he knows versus going to jail is worth it and admits there is a lot more to know. Congressman Andre Carson also chooses his words on UAPs carefully. He still wants to find more information before he speaks. In 2020, President Biden signs a mandate to report UAPs and any retrieved materials. Melon says, “The info will reveal we are not alone but the public might not be ready” to hear it.

Legitimate UAP “whistleblowers” now come forward to tell what they know. Lenval Logan, former Intelligence Analyst, USAF, wants to share what he knows. Jason Sands, Master Sergeant USAF, says there are true UAP data. Dr. Gary Nolan of Stanford University deals with unknown materials related to UAP reports around the world. SIPR, JNICS all have such information.

Gary McKinnon, System Administrator, was accused of hacking into government systems. He said he was looking for UAP information on the subnet at Johnson Space Center and downloaded something explaining what he saw. Facing prison, Prime Minister May of England refused to extradite him to the U.S. to face the courts. Now, he can never leave the country. Dr. David Clarke, in 1990, spoke with Craig Lindsay, Royal Air Force Office, Scotland, about the incident. Two employees in Calvin, Scotland, saw something in the sky hovering. They took six photographs before the craft disappeared. The photos were taken by the Military of Defense. One image was kept by Lindsay and will now finally be seen.

In 2023, NASA Headquarters gives a press conference on joining the UAP conversation and “try to find out” about the phenomenon. They promise to be transparent from this point on but, will they? Also in 2023, David Grusch, was asked to look into UAP events and now needs to speak as well. During his testimony to Congress, he makes clear that he knows where a location is of strange UAP material. The government has not allowed Grusch to get into a SCIF to give his classified testimony. Sands says that the government has “off world” vehicles. He speaks of the Legacy Program and believes Congress should hear about it and he would gladly show them what he knows at the infamous Area 51.

Finally, everyone who has spoken out knows they will be ridiculed or have their lives turned upside down. The dancing around the question of UAPs is still going on and it will continue until someone in power opens the vault for all of it to come spilling out – whether we are ready or not!

Other interviews include NASA Administrator Rep. Bill Nelson, Congressman Tim Burchett, Ministry of Defense UK Nick Pope, Senator Harry Reid, and Senior Defense Editor Politico Bryan Bender. Lab 9 Is a top-secret film production company specializing in UFO and paranormal feature documentaries.

There are several documentaries regarding the UAP phenomenon and changing the name from UFO to UAP is what? Is it suppose to confuse people or make them think they aren’t intelligent enough to know that switching letters around will make us forget? Hardly, changing the letters, for me, only shows that they continue to treat the American public as children. Will people freak out to know there are aliens roaming around the universe? There is no shock in knowing that because, personally, I find arrogance in thinking we are the only beings in the vastness of the universe.

So, the question then becomes, if there are beings flying around, are they dangerous? Really? Have you seen what we, as carbon-based units, do to one another on an hourly basis. The horror that we inflict on one another in the name of love, religion and politics probably scares the living daylights out of “them”. Then what is the hiding for? The only reasonable answer would be that the government wants the technology for themselves and are afraid it will fall into the wrong hands. This is also arrogant because I hardly thinking that “they” only fly around the United States when there is a whole planet to make their playground.

All of this being said, I find what director Fox has brought to our attention is that the government is still playing games. He has found those that need to speak and found leaders that say enough is enough with the hiding and how is this hiding funded? It reminds me of a line in the film INDEPENDENCE DAY when the “President” asks about area 51 by saying, “how do you get funding for something like this?” Judd Hirsch, playing Julius Levinson, says, “you don’t actually think they spend $20,000 on a hammer, $30,000 on a toilet seat, do you?” 

There are laughable moments when agencies talk about “from this point on there will be complete transparency” because I don’t believe a word of it. Those in power have something they want to protect and they are going to do so at all cost, including making more false promises. Yet, one day, there will be a moment where all the hiding, lies, promises and evading won’t save them from what lands on their doorstep – pun intended. My only hope is that Fox is there with his camera rolling catching their expression. THE PROGRAM offers up a few blunt answers by those who speak as much as they can but oh how I wish they would say more and confirm what most of us already believe.

In the end – no one need tell us we are not alone!

The Return of MOANA 2

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres to start the holiday weekend from directors David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, Dana Miller and Walt Disney Animation Studios come the next big adventure with MOANA 2.

Moana (Auli’l Cravalho) is keeping busy once again on the island of Motunui with her family and friends. Trying to find other people on different islands, she has become quite a wayfinder. As she’s about to be given an honor by the village, a blinding light hits her and visions of the most famous wayfinder tells her she must find the hidden island of Motufetu. Once she does, it will connect the island people.

Making sure father Tui (Temuera Morrison) and mother Sina (Nicole Scherzinger) understand why she must take on this adventure, she enlists Moni (Jualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo) and the elderly farmer Kele (David Fane) and takes Pua and Heihei along as well. Upset by the trip is Moana’s baby sister Simea (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda). When Moana and friends head out in a bigger boat, she follows the fire in the sky that she saw in her dream.

Along the way, Moana finds a friends with Kakamora and discovers something about them she didn’t know before. What Moana didn’t expect was to see Maui (Dwayne Johnson) who tells them that the god Nalo isn’t going to let them find the island because he hates humans! That is confirmed by Matangi (Awhimai Fraser), a mysterious woman who finds herself trapped by Nalo as well.

Yet, Moana knows that she must now rely on others to help her reach the hidden island of Motofetu which is something new for her. They come together and with the help of a charming demi-god, it is time to confront find an island that helps more than Moana could have ever realized.

Cravalho as Moana has returned to sing her way, Beyond, through the story as we would expect. She may be a little older but the problems of being a leader are the same. This time, she has the support of her parents and the entire village that she didn’t have before. The monster she faces this time doesn’t bother taking time to monologue, but instead packs a powerful punch and challenges Cravalho’s character to realize she is stronger than she ever imagined.

Johnson as Maui also returns with charm, fun, and even more protective of Moana. Knowing that he has his own reason’s for going after Nalo, when Moana is in the picture, he grabs his hook and knows what he needs to do. Having his share of time singing, Can I get a Chee Hoo?, Johnson get the opportunity again to prove he can have as much fun as he did the first time. He is a bit softer towards people and it his care for humanity is sweet.

Chung as Moni seems to be Motunui’s historian and that is why Moana needs him. After discovering that Moana had actually been up against danger, it is meeting Maui that gives him strength. Matafeo as Loto is the brainy builder who knows what will make Moana’s boats do what she needs them to do. Her strength is being able to adapt just as easily on water as on land. Fane as Kele is the elder and has a bit of a grumpy side wondering why he agreed to come along on the sea.

Fraser as Matangi is a mysterious woman who enjoyed toying with Maui but who she really wants is Moana. If you don’t mind mudskippers and creature boogers, as I assume she doesn’t, Matangi keeps focused on her own agenda. Lambert-Tsuda as the adorable baby sister of Moana, Simea loves her sister and wants her to be there always and not go on ocean adventures but starts to understand.

Shout out to House as Tala for continuing to be there for Moana when she needs her the most. Still feisty and still amazing, House absolutely needed to be in the film.

Other cast include Tofiga Fepulea’l as Nalo, Gerald Ramsey as Tautai Vasa and Rachel House as Tala.

Disney has won 135 Academy Awards and has produced some of the greatest films of all time including the 1934 feature-length animated film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Other amazing films include Fantasia, Dumbo, Cinderella, Snow White, Alice in Wonderland, and the more recent films such as Encanto.

MOANA hit theatres in 2016 and left such a last impression on audiences that MOANA 2 had to happen. It is a story of a young girl trying to discover who she is and where she fits in and a demi-god that also can’t seem to find his place that isn’t full of trouble. Putting these two characters together to go on an adventure was a stroke of Disney genius. Continuing with that theme. MOANA 2 picks up fairly quickly and although Moana feels she knows who she is, there is something more.

That also meant that she would have to rely on the help of others which she hadn’t done before. There are also a few surprises and even more secrets uncovered and that’s what makes the film so much fun. Of course, coming from Disney Animation, the colors are vivid, stunning and so very cool. The music fits every emotion that comes their way and a few memorable lines that find their way into the new story.

As the holidays start and the kids are wanting to do something as a family, pack up for a trip back to the island. The film is an adventure of family, love, loyalty, friendship and discovering who you are.

In the end – find the way!

WICKED

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Jon M. Chu and Universal Pictures comes the much-anticipated film WICKED.

Elphaba Thropp (Cynthia Erivo) is a young woman who has been living with a difference, she happens to be green. While taking her sister Nessarose (Marissa Bode), a paraplegic, to her first day at Shiz University, she is noticed by Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), the Headmistress. Believing she has found something special; she makes sure that Elphaba is taken into Shiz as well. Looking for a room to place her, Galinda Upland (Ariana Grande) is unwittingly chosen.

Galinda is a very popular girl who has a dreamy pink-like quality that Elphaba doesn’t warm up to at first meeting. Setting boundaries makes Galinda unsure of how it is possible that someone doesn’t like her. No matter, Galinda has found something new to keep her in the clouds and that is the arrival of Fiyero Tigelaar (Jonathan Bailey), a Winkie very good-looking prince. He sees Galinda as well and the two strike up a flirtation. But another, Boq (Ethan Slater) also has eyes for the floating beauty.

In history class, Doctor Dillamond (Peter Dinklage), a goat, is giving the students their first lessons but it is Galinda making it about her until Elphaba interjects. Once again Galinda is confused. When it is announced that a group is going out together, Boq tries to make his move but Galinda redirects him to Nessarose which makes the young girl so thrilled and Elphaba wonder if perhaps she might be too harsh on Galinda. At the dance is when everything beings to change for the two young women.

Elphaba now finds a way to include Galinda in her studies with Madame Morrible and Galinda finds ways to show others that Elphaba is one of them. Madame Morrible has decided, after seeing Elphaba’s powers, to write to the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) to see if a private audience can happen. Again, Elphaba includes Galinda in the exciting adventure but once there, both of them see what the Wizard is really about and what part Madame Morrible is playing.

The two young women must each make a decision on what path down the yellow brick road they are going to take. Elphaba now understands the strength of her powers and is about to unleash the Wicked Witch of the West!

Grande as Galinda and Erivo as Elphaba play off one another very well. They seem to be having fun play their respective roles and that is important to the audience watching. I just love Michelle Yeoh and when she gets the opportunity to play bad, she just plays it bad to the bone and as Madame Morrible it is as underhanded as it gets and I’m here for it.

Bailey as Fiyero is handsome, dashing and quite the dancer around books. He is the Ken to Galdina’s Barbie (outfits and all) but there will come a kitty-cat moment where he begins to question feelings he seems to have never had before. Slater as Boq is a love-struck young man and the problem is that the heart wants what the heart wants. We will see how this plays out.

Goldblum as the Wizard is exactly what I expected and actually waited to see out of the whole film. He is quirky, theatrical, and when the tables turn, he keeps up the wide-eyed innocent act with style. Dinklage as the voice of Doctor Dillamomd is just so damn cool…period. He may be the voice of a goat but I cheered hearing him none-the-less.

Other cast include Karis Musongole as young Elphaba, Bowen Yang as Pfannee, Bronwyn James as ShenShen, Keala Settle as Miss Coddle, Aaron Teoh as Avaric, Grecia de la Paz as Gilligan, Colin Carmichael as Professor Nikidik, Courtney-Mae Briggs as Melena Thropp, Andy Nyman as Frexspar Thropp, and Sharon D. Clarke as Dulcibear.

Cameos includeIdina Menzel, Kristin Chenoweth, Stephen Schwartz, Kerry Ellis, Luke Bayer, Georgina Onuorah and Dianne Pilkington.

WICKED has already won a few accolades from the Manaki Brothers Film Festival with the SUMOLIGHT Creative Synergy Award, the Heartland Film Festival for Truly Moving Picture AwardCameriage for Production Designer Award for Nathan Crowley, Celebration of Black Cinema and Television with Actress Award – film for Cynthia Erivo, and Santa Barbara International Film Festival Virtuoso Award for Ariana Grande.

This is where I suspect that my review will part ways with readers. I think the film is very colorful with a 2023 Willy Wonka and Harry Potter school type deal with spells, witches, wands and outlandish characters. That said, I can’t unsee Galinda being an Elle Woods LEGALLY BLONDE (“Whoever said orange is the new pink is seriously disturbed) mixed with BARBIE (“Don’t worry - everyone likes me and thinks I’m cool and pretty”) washed in Pepto Bismal so much than her brain is basically mush but enough left for her to be sweetly dastardly. Sorry folks but MY Galinda via 1939 is lovely, caring and wise and I completely get the “you’re of an era” quips, but to sit for two hours listening to a high pitched, bleached-blonde, narcissistic pink-lady just didn’t do it for me.

Elphaba, I can’t even so I just won’t other than to say although a nod to her basket bike riding skills. By the way, when did the Wizard get a side-kick? Not sure what a prince has to do with the story but I guess I’ll maybe find out in Part 2? Oh yes folks, as if three hours isn’t enough, there is actually a part deux. Look, I get it that this is created from a screenplay by Winie Holzman and Dana Fox but if the stage musical by Stephen Schwartz and Holzman could do it in under three hours without a second part, why can’t the film? Let’s give credit that it all came about and is “loosely” based on the 1995 by Gregory Maguire. Now I have to go read the book because I’m not waiting a year to see how this plays out.  

Okay, now that I’ve said my partial-piece (did you think that’s all I thought?), let me just say this. Upon exiting the theatre, I saw happy people, I saw thrilled people and my granddaughter was one of them and that’s all that matters right? People being happy to be in a theatre together basking in the glow of a shared experience? I’m here for that absolutely and see that WICKED is going to hit a target audience who are going to be just as thrilled this Friday as everyone at the screening was (well, almost all).

To be fair, it was a fun time to be with my granddaughter and see her elation. The color, the songs, the dancing, the few giggles is exactly what the audience will be expecting. I didn’t not like the film, I would say it is more indifference after seeing it, and so it is known, I was interested in the film from jump. I’d probably have enjoyed it more from my comfy chair at home and, if it helps, I will most likely actually do that when it comes to a streaming service. In the meantime, hey WICKED, run with it by all means. Get the kudos, get the awards and make the fans happy because I'm all for that absolutely.

So, all this yadda-yadda being said, look, grab up every musical lover in your home, grab up every WICKED fan who is excited, for the kids and the kid at heart, head to theatre this Friday and dressing in costume is optional but always fun, grab some eats (no belly buster drinks!), make sure you get a comfy theatre seat and prepare to look towards the western sky!

 

In the end – everyone deserves the chance to fly!