ASLEEP IN MY PALM

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writer/director Henry Nelson and Strike Back Studios is the story of a sheltered life from two perspectives when ASLEEP IN MY PALM.

In a small Ohio college town, dad Tom (Tim Blake Nelson) with daughter Beth Anne (Chloe Kerwin) are living an extremely quiet life. Beth Anne is a 16-year-old girl who looks up to her father who shares his outlook on life and beliefs. Living an extremely simple life, Tom makes his money taking what he thinks no one else really needs.

Beth doesn’t attend school but instead is educated by Tom in why they don’t need the outside world to live. When Tom has to go tend to business, he leaves Beth Anne to wait at the local empty college where she sees and experiences a moment of tenderness and affection in a way she has not experienced before.

When a string of horrendous events happen, Beth Anne is front and center now in her own life, but is it?

Nelson as Tom is a man who may be in the present but clearly his beliefs come from the past. Teaching Beth Anne why he believes what he believes, she absorbs it and their relationship is strong. His goal is earning, making sure a roof is constantly over their heads and keeping them both safe. Nelson gives his character intensity, charm, intelligence, survival, mystery and he doesn’t let up on the gas from start to finish.

Kerwin as Beth Anne is an innocent who accepts the life she is living with Dad Tom. There is clearly an innocence that is endearing but, as the story unfolds, Kerwin’s character begins experiencing the outside world with dad at her side. Slowly and deliberately, Beth Anne’s silence speaks volumes and that is all due to Kerwin’s incredible performance.

Other cast include Grant Harvey, Gus Birney, Jared Abrahamson, David Baker, Christopher Mele, Corin Clay and R. Scott Purdy.

ASLEEP IN MY PALM was nominated in 2023 for the Grand Jury Prize for New Directors Competition at the Nashville Film Festival and the winner of the Haskell Wexler Award for Best Cinematography from the Woodstock Film Festival.

When asked what audiences will come away with when seeing the film, the director says, “As far as what the audience takes away from this film, it’s ultimately up to them. Obviously, I hope they dig it and don’t think I’m an awful director. But in all seriousness, there’s no incorrect response.”

It seems director Nelson, who is the true son of actor Tim Nelson, not only intentionally leaves out an in-depth back story but intentionally leaves us to our own imagination and that’s not a bad thing. Each of us has our own story to tell and, in some ways, can relate to the story Tom is trying to express and Beth Anne’s awakening of life outside of her father. Then, as with life, writer/director Nelson blow us out of the water and we are left with wanting to do exactly what Beth Anne did (see for yourself).

In the end – question everything!

 

 

It is the Story of POOR THINGS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Digital and coming to Bluray from acclaimed filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos and Searchlight Pictures is the story of POOR THINGS.

Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe) is a surgeon in London and he takes in Max McCandles (Ramy Youssef) as his assistant. Arriving to begin, he meets Bella (Emma Stone), a young woman who clearly is different as Dr. Baxter explains her circumstances and that she has the mind of a child. Max and Bella work together to help her mind grow.

There are still things Bella needs to learn about the world but Dr. Baxter encourages Max to marry Bella. She accepts but, when she meets unscrupulous lawyer Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo) Bella decides she wants to explore the world and all it has to offer. Dr. Godwin tells Max to let her go while they start with a new experiment named Felicity (Margaret Qualley).

Bella and Duncan start in Lisbon as the couple are exploring each other as well as their surroundings. As Bella becomes more and more aware, she discovers that Duncan is actually just as trapping as her home in London. Duncan decides to smuggle her onto a ship where she meets Marth (Hanna Schygulla) and Harry (Jarrod Carmichael) who her expand her mind and Bella likes it. Duncan, however, is becoming possessive and Bella decides its time for a change.

She takes on the challenges of earning her own money in a way that doesn’t seem to bother because it allows her to explore the city and learn more about being a doctor. She returns to Godwin and Max asks if she has returned permanently. But there are more twists to this story and Bella is ready for whatever comes…are you?

Stone as Bella is extraordinary in the role as we watch a child become a woman in the weirdest set of circumstances. Being told what to do, how to behave, where she can go, what to think and what is possible is dictated by men and Bella isn’t about it. She is polite in listening but always makes her own choices with her own way of being emotional. It is all Stone from frame one to frame end and she deserves all the accolades she is receiving.

Ruffalo as Duncan is a man who has a narcissist attitude that he has won a prize in Bella. He spends his time keeping her uneducated on the world and very close to him. When Bella decides to explore her world, each time Duncan becomes more and more crazed. Watching Ruffalo go from up to the lowest was a bit entertaining for me in a strange way but no stranger than the whole story being told. Ruffalo is good at being a little nutty.

Dafoe as Dr. Baxter is an eccentric surgeon who clearly sees Bella as a daughter. Having a rough life himself and the results are clearly on his face, Dafoe still gives us an oddly touching man who wants only the best for Bella. Youssef as Max comes into Dr. Baxter’s life only to discover Bella and the twists that come with being in the situation. Having feelings for Bella complicate but he is a lot like Dr. Baxter in wanting the best for Bella. Yousseff gives his characters charm, loyalty and the ability to see past the flaws of others. I adore this character so much for that.

Other cast include Christopher Abbott as Alfie, Suzy Bemba as Toinette, Kathryn Hunter as Swiney, Vicki Pepperdine as Mrs. Prim, Keeley Forsyth as Allison, John Locke as David, Kate Handford as Kitty, and Owen Good as Gerald.

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

Bonus Features include Featurettes, Possessing Beauty - The Making of Poor Things. Join Yorgos Lanthimos, Emma Stone, cast and crew in the making of this fantastical film. Explore the costumes, makeup and prosthetics in detail. Take a tour with Willem Dafoe and see how Godwin and Bella’s home mirrors and accommodates them both, Deleted Things, Brothel Doctor, Alfie’s Chapter, and Bella’s Notebook.

POOR THINGS is the winner of Best Motion Picture and Best Actress/Emma Stone at the Golden Globe Awards. Also, the film is a winner for Best Actress/Emma Stone and Best Costume Design. POOR THINGS is currently nominated for eleven Academy Awards.

This film is stunning in cinematography with color, vibrance and the hints of the Victorian era splashes with fantasy. There isn’t a scene that isn’t full of beauty making it a character unto itself. I was fascinated by it. Adding to the story and bringing us into it with ease and grace is just amazing.

Stone and Ruffalo are the ‘crazy kids’ of the story with the twists that are just so stunning it is impossible to look away. Dafoe is the creator and Max is the man who is not judgmental regarding any of the behaviors around him. The rest of the wonderful cast adds the lovely border around this intensely beautiful story.

In the end – the world is her but they don’t know it yet!

 

Prepare for a Bluray Landing with MIGRATION

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and Digital from writer/directors Benjamin Renner, Gyulo Homsy, Illumination Entertainment and Universal Pictures comes MIGRATION.

The Mallard family lives a pretty nice life on the banks of their pond. Dad Mack (Kumail Nanjiani), Mom Pam (Elizabeth Banks) and their two children Dax (Caspar Jennings) and Gwen (Resi Gazal). Mack is a bit of an anxious father constantly worried about keeping his children safe from scary things with Pam being the positive of the two.

Son Dax is a daredevil who is both a caring and irritating brother to little Gwen and she has picked up some of Mack’s nervousness. To round out the Mallard clan is Uncle Dan (Danny DeVito) who loves his family in his own way. When a group of colorful duck’s land in their pond for a bit of a rest, Pam learns they are migrating to Jamaica and she is intrigued.

Mack, however, is not so much into all the friendliness and goes about his business. Pam makes it clear that, in fact, she wants to migrate to Jamaica to see outside their little world. Knowing that he must overcome his fears, Mack decides to gather up the clan and head south. Once up in the huge sky, the family feels such freedom – which is quickly interrupted.

The Mallards discover Erin (Carol Kane) the kind of scary heron and the big city. Feeling a bit lost, they meet Chump (Awkwafina) who knows someone that can help them on their way. Delroy (Keegan-Michael Key) is a stunning exotic bird locked in a cage by The Chef! Wanting to go home, Mack decides to take on a task that brings him to a place ducks shouldn’t go, into a chef’s kitchen.

Escaping quickly, the new member of the flock is happy to be in the air again, when breaktime comes the family meets Googoo (David Mitchell) who is seriously into yoga. Since helping Delroy escape, The Chef has decided his mission is to find the birds and bring them back to his restaurant.

Not so fast, the flock of feathers might have something to say about that!

Nanjiani voices Mack, the head of the family (so he thinks) and thinks that telling his kids scary things about the world will keep them safe. It is only when his wife decides that she wants to do something different does he realize the hold he has been putting on his family. Banks as Pam is a loving wife and Mom who knows that it is time for them to do something different as a family. Once out in the world she is the glue that holds them all together.

Jennings as Dax is a thrill seeker who sometimes pushes the limits a bit to far. Gazal as Gwen is an agreeable and, at times, a duplicate of her father with fears no little bird should have but she is so dang cute! DeVito as Uncle Dan is an elderly duck who goes along to get along and does so in his own unique way.

Kane drops by as the voice of Erin the heron and keeps the Mallards on their webbed feet. Awkwafina flies in as Chump the leader of the pigeons who may be little but don’t let her size fool you. Mitchell as Googoo is as deeply meditating as a bird can get, perhaps a little too much into it to see the truth around him.

Key as Delroy is a bird of beautiful feathers who has been caged. That is until his new friends decide that it is time to be free once again, oh, and give them directions to Jamaica!

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

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

Exclusive Bonus Features on 4K UHD, Bluray, DVD and Digital include Fly Hard (Mini Movie) - Chump sheds her tough-as-nails attitude, risking her life to fly through a blizzard and the harrowing streets of New York to return a prized possession to a kind woman from the park, Mooned (Mini Movie) - Following the events of DESPICABLE ME, Vector and a lost Minion are stranded on the moon, and struggle to get back to Earth, Midnight Mission (Mini Movie) - The Minions will try anything to help Agnes overcome her fear of the dark, even if it involves going into outer space.

Also included is Microphone Madness - A fun look behind-the-scenes as the cast record some of their silliest lines, Meet the Cast - In this series of behind-the-scenes pieces, we learn more about our favorite characters and the legendary comedic voices behind them, Taking Flight: The Making of - MIGRATION is an original script so brand-new characters and locations had to be developed, designed, and animated from scratch! Here, filmmakers and crew break down their process to show us what gives this film an entirely new look and feel. The Art of Flight - Using a series of production phases from storyboards to pre-viz, we peel back the feathers and reveal just what goes in to creating the avian heroes of the film, The Sound of Flight - Take a closer look at the music of MIGRATION as Composer John Powell walks us through his scoring journey. How to Draw Mack, Delroy, Chump and Gwen,

Finally, Build Your Own Pop-Up Book - Daddy duck, Mack, likes to tell his two little ducklings some…overly imaginative bedtime stories. In this fun “How To” we’ll show you how to create a pop-up book so you can tell your very own bedtime stories, Calling All Birds - They may not have cellphones, but you can call your web-footed friends anytime you want! In this fun How To, we’ll teach you how to create and customize your very own set of colorful bird whistles with The Mack Quack, The Heron Honk and The Chump Chirp and Best Nests - You don’t have to fly south –or anywhere –to find a perfect paradise for your feathered friends. Here we’ll teach you how to make the best nest for your pet ducks, or anyone flying by, including a water feeder to keep them hydrated!

Illumination has done it again with their own unique brand of animation, togetherness, fun and humor. Three generations of ladies can tell you that the laughing won’t stop from beginning to end. We are all minion lovers from the very first so anything Illumination brings to the screen we are there for.

MIGRATION is absolutely adorable in all respects, from vibrant colors, to action, to humor, this film has everything a family wants to see for the holidays. The story of family is so strong in this telling, that it seems only natural that the birds of all feathers would be flocking together. Even the pigeons finally get to have a say in how they feel about their bad reputation and it is adorable.

It is clear that Moms and Dads will have a fun time with the kids talking about what they liked the most. Let’s be clear however that all adults should be have a wonderful time just seeing it on their own. Directors Renner and Homsy should be congratulated for bringing a wonderful film to the big screen in time for the holidays!

In the end – soar into a new adventure!

ALL OF US STRANGERS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Digital and coming to 4K Ultra HD from writer/director Andrew Haigh based on Taichi Yamada’s Strangers and Searchlight Pictures is ALL OF US STRANGERS.

Adam (Andrew Scott) is living a very secluded life in his high tower apartment in London. A screenwriter, he spends his time writing and being alone until one night he meets neighbor Harry (Paul Mescal). A bit drunk, Harry tries to entice Adam to spend the night. Trying to be polite, Adam makes it clear he isn’t interested. The next day, Adam is off to visit Mum (Claire Foy) and Dad (Jamie Bell) who are happy to see him.

Coming back home he sees Harry again but this time he invites him into the apartment. There begins their passionate relationship. They talk about their families as Harry tells Adam that there is a disconnect with his own parents. Spending a night out on the town, they drink and dance their troubles away. After a fitful night of dreams, Adam tells Harry about his own parents and wants them all to meet.

But reality slowly makes its way to Adam and he holds on to the things he loves.

Scott as Adam is stunning in the role of a writer who is dealing with so much emotion in his life. Relying on his parents for support, he is trying to come to terms with the events of his life. When a love enters into the picture, it is just another piece of his life that is blissful but filled with intensity. Scott moves in and out of the story like his feet are not touching the ground. He flows so smoothly and I am with him every frame through joy and heartbreak. This is a stunning performance by Scott.

Mescal as Harry is the larger-than-life person that seems to awaken something in Adam. He is light, funny, charming and has no judgements toward Adam. At first glance, his character gives off vibes that even had me backing away a bit and that says everything about what Mescal’s performance brings. This character draws you in slowly, is too charming to be ignored and it is all Mescal.

Foy as Mum is supporting of her son and shows him love and understanding. She listens to how Adam is feeling and is such a calming presence for him. That is what Foy brings to the story, with the grace she has come to be known for (watch THE CROWN for another stunning performance) and the eyes of an old soul. Bell as Dad has a history with Adam that is a bit strained as clearly there are things that need to be said between them. I enjoyed Bell’s performance as a man who has a difficult time sharing his feelings.

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

Bonus Features include Featurettes Roots of the Story – Uncover how the director blended his own personal story into the making of this moving film. Hear the cast and crew and learn how the filmmakers approached recreating the look and feel of the ‘80s, from the sets to the hair and clothing and Building Adam’s World – Discover how Adam’s isolated existence was shaped through constructed sets. Visit the locations of exterior shots and learn about the director’s choice to have Adam’s world feel real, and yet not quite real.

ALL OF US STRANGERS has won awards from the Valladolid International Film Festival, Montclair Film Festival, British Independent Film Awards, National Board of Review, Los Angeles Film critics Association Awards, Kansas City Film Critics Circle, and London Film Critics’ Circle.

This film is an emotional roller coaster from beginning to end with Adam at the helm. It is a story of loneliness, love, want of love and family. It is a powerful look at the complexity of life through the eyes of this haunted man. Director Haigh gives us nothing to hide behind when we feel as if there is an intrusion into Adam’s life. It is right before us and the emotion falls over us wave after wave.

Filmed beautifully with an amazing score, ALL OF US STRANGERS is insightful, complex, tender, and gauntlet of emotion. Might I suggest a box of tissue and someone to cuddle with as this moving piece of filmmaking doesn’t mind the teardrops nor our own family emotions mixing with Adams. In fact, I think it wants exactly that.

In the end – the paths to love are many!

They Are No ORDINARY ANGELS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Jon Gunn and Lionsgate is a true story of life and connection with ORDINARY ANGELS.

Sharon Stevens (Hilary Swank) is a hairdresser with problems, namely alcohol, although she doesn’t seem to think so. When it is suggested she find something else to occupy her mind, she takes an interest in a story about Michelle (Emily Mitchell) who is in need of a liver transplant. Sharon seeks out her father Ed (Alan Ritchson), a recent widower, who is past his neck in bills and consistently looking for work that will pay medical bills as well.

Ed is a quieter person and Sharon is a tad louder as these two come together to try and figure out how to pay the medical bills and keep his house. Sharon begins to raise funds through hairdressing and donations talking with people about helping the struggling family. Sharon even helps with Ed’s older daughter Ashley Schmitt (Skywalker Hughes) to give her support.

All of the attention is difficult for Ed and when Sharon puts the girls in jeopardy, everything she has worked for begins to fall apart. When Michelle is back in the hospital, the doctor makes it clear that something has to happen soon or they could lose the little girl. When hope is so close, a major storm hits their town of Louisville, Kentucky. As roads close and the snow piles, Ed reaches out to the one person he knows who can get things done and Sharon answers the call.

Ed and Sharon learn from one another about faith, hope and possibilities.

Swank as Sharon plays a loud, boisterous hairdresser who refuses to admit she might have a drinking problem. Throwing herself into helping Ed, Michell and Ashley, she avoids her own life issues until they can’t be ignored anymore. Swank is known for playing these characters and does not fail to deliver with conviction and emotion.

Ritchson as Ed is a man who is dealing with his own grief after the loss of his wife. Now he is dealing with his young daughter’s illness and the bills are piling up. All of a sudden this very boisterous woman shows up and his life begins to change in ways he could never have imagined. Ritchson gives his character a stoniness and pride that gets in his way sometimes but he melts as a father of his young loving daughters.

Mitchell as Michelle is a young girl who wants the family to be happy and her father to be there. She is such a charmer and so endearing in this role. Well done young lady. Hughes as Ashley is the older sister who is trying to be strong for everyone. Sharon gives her a few moments of fun being lighthearted but when it comes to her little sister, she is all heart. Hughes gives us a look at a tough teenager who is dealing with her own grief.

Shout out to Nancy Travis who is there for her family with love, strength and acceptance of Sharon to help.

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

ORDINARY ANGELS is a story of one family’s struggle through grief and illness and another story of a woman avoiding hers. When they come together, there is a different kind of struggle but one that can be overcome when the focus is saving a young girls life. This is a film that shows what is possible and how many people can actually make it happen – tenacity for sure!

The script was written by Kelly Freemon Craig and actress Meg Tilly based on the story of the family during the 1994 North American storms. From these two writers, director Gunn has brought and endearing story to the big screen filled with faith and when called upon, the humanity of the town around this little girl. These are films people can enjoy and talk about with the family, teachable moments absolutely.

In the end – find your purpose and make a difference.

 

 

 

Apple TV+ Delights with SNOOPY PRESENTS: Welcome Home, Franklin

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Apple TV+ and director Raymond S. Persi is a stunning look at one of the world’s most famous animated, the world’s most recognizable and beloved characters from Charles Schulz with SNOOPY PRESENTS: Welcome Home, Franklin.

Franklin (voiced by Caleb Bellavance) is a young boy who is used to moving about with his parents. Keeping a notebook given to him by his grandfather, he arrives in his new town hoping to fit in right away. His first meet is with Linus (Wyatt White) in the pumpkin patch and gets a lesson in pumpkin etiquette. Determined to make friends, he meets the very outspoken Lucy (Isabella Leo) who basically sets him straight, and Pig Pen who has an introduction of his own.

Snoopy and Woodstock are all about that surfs up but Franklin is beginning to feel a bit defeated. The cloud’s part when Franklin meets Charlie Brown (Etienne Kellici) and there is a connection. When a derby comes to town and the prize, the two become partners planning for the race. Franklin also shares with Charlie Brown what he knows about baseball and music.

Getting to know one another while building their derby car, Franklin and Charlie Brown are feeling confident of a win. But, what the two boys learn about friendship and loyalty is far more important than the group could ever have imagined.

Bellavance and Kellici as Franklin and Charlie Brown are just such wonderful characters and watching them interact is something totally new. Charlie Brown isn’t known for having close friends but I have a sneaking suspicion he has found that in Franklin and it is a beautiful and fun thing.

Other voice characters include Lexi Perri as Peppermint Patty, Hattie Kragten as Sally, Arianna McDonald as Marcie, Lucien Duncan-Reid as Schroeder, Charlie Boyle as Violet, Will Bhaneja as Shermy, Maya Misaljevic as Frieda, Jackson Reid as Harold, Jacob Mazeral as Jose, Rob Tinkler as Woodstock and, finally, Terry McGurrin as Snoopy.

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

Produced for Apple TV+ by Peanuts and WildBrain, the special is directed by Emmy Award winner Raymond S. Persi (“The Simpsons,” “Wreck-It-Ralph”) and is co-written by Robb Armstrong (“Jump Start”) along with Craig Schulz, Bryan Schulz, and Cornelius Uliano, from an original story by Armstrong and Scott Montgomery (“The Snoopy Show”). Executive producers are Craig Schulz, Bryan Schulz, Cornelius Uliano, Paige Braddock, Josh Scherba, Stephanie Betts and Logan McPherson.

SNOOPY PRESENTS: Welcome Home, Franklin is such a wonderful way to introduce the character of Franklin. This young boy knows what it’s like to move from place to place and attempt to make friends everywhere he goes. Relying on good advice from his grandfather, Franklin does what he can to make himself likeable but it seems to go slightly off kilter. This is a fantastic family film with subject matters that are relatable to everyone.

Meeting Charlie Brown is a turning point for Franklin but what he doesn’t realize is that it is also something very special for Charlie Brown. When the derby is presented, the two strangers become friends learning about one another because they do what most people don’t – communicate. Their stories are so sweet that these two boys are quickly at ease with one another.

Apple TV+ brings so much love with SNOOPY PRESENTS: Welcome Home, Franklin and it is a winner for fans. On race day, all of the Peanut’s characters learn a valuable lesson about friendship, loyalty and what is truly important in life. Pizza doesn’t hurt either!

In the end – friendship is the finishing line!

 

 

 

Sony Brings the Stunning Columbia Classics Vol. 4

 

Jeri Jacquin

On 4K Ultra HD is the stunning COLUMBIA CLASSICS COLLECTION Vol. 4 to include such iconic films as HIS GIRL FRIDAY, GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER, KRAMER VS. KRAMER, STARMAN, SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE and PUNCH-DRUNK LOVE.

Director Howard Hawk brings a 1940 comedy to theatres with HIS GIRL FRIDAY. Cary Grant plays Walter Burns, the editor for The Morning Post, discovers that his ex-wife Hildy Johnson, played by Rosalind Russell, is getting remarried. Hildy use to be Walter’s star journalist, seems ready to be a suburban housewife to new husband Bruce.

Walter has other plans as he tries to convince Hildy to do just one more story. A bookkeeper has been jailed and tried for the murder of a policeman and is to be executed. Hildy makes a side agreement with Walter but their past history makes working together full of ups and downs. But when the bookkeeper escapes, Hildy kicks her journalistic instincts into high gear and when chaos ensues, the two former spouses realize that nothing ever changes!

Grant and Russell together are a marvel in this film and director Hawk knew exactly how to bring the best out of both of them. The story is full of twists and turn but along with that is the camp that Walter and Hildy bring to it all. There is a reason that this will forever be a classic and the kudos go to Grant, Russell and Hawk for every bit of it.

The film also stars Ralph Bellamy, Gene Lockhart, Porter Hall, Ernest Truex, Cliff Edwards, Clarence Kolb, Pat West, and John Qualen as Earl Williams.

This disc includes 4K Ultra HD Feature Presentation in 4K Resolution with Dolby Vision Restored from the Original Camera Negative, Feature Presented in High Definition Sourced from the 4K Master, Audio Commentary Featuring Film Critic and Author Todd McCarthy, Screwball Style: The Iconic Costumes of Robert Kalloch Featurette, Breaking the Speed Barrier: The Dialogue of HIS GIRL FRIDAY Featurette, Lighting Up with Hildy Johnson Featurette, Ben Hecht Featurette and On Assignment: HIS GIRL FRIDAY Featurette.

GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER lands in 1967 as director Stanley Kramer takes on the issue of family and belief systems engrained into them. Joanna Drayton, played by Katharine Houghton, is a young woman with a strong mind of her own which she gets from her mother Christina, played by the stunning Katharine Hepburn. Just as stubborn is her father Matt, portrayed by the equally stunning Spencer Tracy who seems set in his ways.

Joanna brings a special guest home to meet her parents and when she announces their intentions, the Drayton’s are shaken. Arriving with her is Dr. John Prentice, played by the incomparable Sidney Poitier and now it is time for the family to face their beliefs. These two people are in love and while Christina understands, Matt does not and so begin the back and forth of how to come to terms with what is said and what is done.

This is Hepburn (who won the Academy Award for her performance) and Tracy’s ninth time on film together and it would be their last as well as Tracy was ill at the time. What this film did and has done is bring all the questions of love, family and race straight to the forefront and has made it an instant iconic classic. I can watch this movie again and again because not only is it beautifully done, but these four actors put everything out in the open and their portrayal is legendary.

Other cast include Cecil Kellaway, Beah Richards, Roy E. Gleen Sr., and Isabel Sanford as housekeeper Matilda Binx.

The disc includes 4K Ultra HD Feature Presented in 4K Resolution with Dolby Vision Restored from the Original Camera Negative, Audio Commentary Featuring Eddy Friedfeld, Lee Pfeiffer and Paul Scrabo, Theatrical Teaser, Introductions: Karen Kramer, Steven Spielberg, Tom Brokaw and Quincy Jones, A Love Story for Today Featurette, A Special Kind of Love Featurette, Stanley Kramer: A Man’s Search for Truth Featurette, Stanley Kramer Accepts the Irving Thalberg Award, 2007 Producers Guild Stanley Kramer Award Presented to An Inconvenient Truth, and Photo Gallery.

In 1979, director Robert Benton brought the story by Avery Corman to the screen with KRAMER VS. KRAMER. Dustin Hoffman plays Ted Kramer, a man who works tirelessly as an advertising exec living in New York. Wife Joanna, played by Meryl Streep, turns his life around in a single moment when he comes home to her announcement that she’s leaving. Not only is she walking out the door, but leaving behind their very young son Billy, portrayed by Justin Henry.

Ted immediately goes into a mode thinking he knows exactly how to handle the situation, until he realizes he has no clue about what has been going on in his own home or raising a young son. Neighbor Margaret, superbly played by Jane Alexander, tries to not only clue Ted in on why Joanna left but then sees that they can be friends and help when she can.

Over a year later, after father and son finally have their life in a rhythm, Joanna returns and wants Billy back. Ted is hardly in the mood to give in to her demands and takes her to court. Once in front of a judge, Ted and Joanna go back and forth as to who is better for Billy as accusations fly. Somewhere in it all, it is Billy who will suffer the most.

Hoffman and Streep are not only superb in their roles but the issue of parents and children in a divorce are placed front and center. It is totally a heart-breaking story of a man who saw his career more important than his family and a woman who lost herself in the life of a wife and mother. In the middle is Billy, a young boy caught in the crossfire of the two adults who should be there for him.

Director Benton keeps the scenes tight without the superfluous noise from the outside world but instead let us get deep into the story. This is another film I can watch again and again because of its simplicity yet in-your-face courtroom scenes as they are relatable to so many. Winning 5 Academy Awards tells you that KRAMER VS. KRAMER falls sweetly into the icon category.

Other cast include Petra King, Melissa Morell, Howard Duff, George Coe, Howland Chamberlain, and JoBeth Williams as Phyllis Bernard.

The disc includes 4K Ultra HD Feature Presentation Restored from the Original Camera Negative, Audio Commentary with Film Professor Jennine Lanouette, Five Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes, Robert Benton on Directing, Justin Henry on Acting, Mothers and Daughters, Points of Pride, Theatrical Trailer, and Finding the Truth – The Making of Kramer vs. Kramer.

The world is about to be introduced to the 1979 alien film STARMAN starring Jeff Bridges, Karen Allen and directed by John Carpenter. When an alien discovers a message on a disk sent with Voyager 2, the invitation is about to be accepted. Jenny Hayden is dealing with the death of husband Scott and is alone in her home not realizing that a very intense journey is about to happen. As the alien crash lands and finds Jenny’s home, he uses a piece of hair from Scott to bring himself into a human form, Jenny is shocked and scared.

But Starman wants only one thing, to go to the crater in Winslow, Arizona so that he can go home. Jenny agrees believing she doesn’t have any choice and as they start their road trip, they learn about one another. Jenny teaches about life on Earth and the Starman shows her that humanity isn’t just for humans.

Following them is scientist Mark Shermin, played by Charles Martin Smith, who doesn’t want to hurt the Starman, but instead just talk with him. But once the military is involved, there is only one thing left to do – run!

STARMAN is an epic film about love, loss, adventure, understanding, learning, the list is endless. Bridges and Allen create such chemistry in these roles that it is hard to take your eyes off the screen. Their differences aren’t so different and Smith’s character is just so endearing that the film flows beautifully. Carpenter takes a story and gives it such life and richness proving he can scare us one minute and root for the alien the next. That is a gift and he shares it exceedingly well.

Other cast include George Fox, Robert Phalen, John David, Ted White and Lu Leonard as Roadhouse Waitress.

The disc includes 4K Ultra HD Feature Presentation Restored from the Original Camera Negative, Audio Commentary with Director John Carpenter and Actor Jeff Bridges, Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes, Behind-The-Scenes Time Lapses, They Came from Hollywood: Revisiting STARMAN Featurette, Make-Of Featurette, Music Video, Still Gallery and Theatrical Trailer.

Also included as a Bonus is STARMAN – The Complete 1986-1987 22-Episode Follow-Up Series, and Based on the Feature Film – Exclusively Presented in High Definition.

Nora Ephron makes her way into the collection as director in one of the most beloved stories as Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan show us how to be SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE. Hanks is Sam, a widow who moves from Chicago to Seattle with son Jonah, played by Ross Malinger. On Christmas Eve Jonah decides he wants to help his dad deal with the grief. Listeners from all over are hearing what Sam has to say, including Annie Reed. Ryan is Annie, a writer for the Baltimore Sun and is engaged to Bill Pullman’s character Walter.

Annie hears Jonah and Sam and is drawn to what has been said. Boss Becky, played by Rosie O’Donnell, begins to encourage Annie to write Sam. Well, it is Jonah who replies and a meet is set up for the Empire State Building on Valentines Day, reminiscent of the 1957 film AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER.

Jonah decides that if dad isn’t going to meet up with Annie, then he is just going to have to make it happen for himself. Sam realizes that his son has gone to New York City on his own and takes off after him. What happens next is the stuff that romance is made of!

Hanks and Ryan made the 90’s with their films because of the fantastic chemistry these two actors had with one another. In this film it is endearing, cute, sweet, charming and full of love which should give anyone diabetes but it doesn’t. Instead, we follow along on this journey and it is absolutely everything. Director Ephron gives us one of the best and most iconic rom-com’s (well that and YOU’VE GOT MAIL in 1998) of all time.

Other cast include Gaby Hoffman, Victor Garber, Barbara Garrick, Caroline Aaron, Carey Lowell, David Hyde Pierce, Dana Ivey, Rita Wilson and Rob Reiner as Jay Mathews.

The disc includes 4K Ultra HD Feature Presented and Restored from the Original Camera Negative, 30^th Anniversary Critic Commentary with Karen Han and David Sims, A Conversation on SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE with Gary Foster and Meg Ryan, Audio Commentary Featuring Nora and Delia Ephron, Four Deleted Scenes, Love in the Movies Featurette, “When I Fall in Love” Music Video and Theatrical Trailer.

Finally, in 2002, writer and director Paul Thomas Anderson bring together Adam Sandler as Barry Egan and Emily Watson as Lena Leonard to tell the story of PUNCH-DRUNK LOVE. Barry is single and works in his company selling novelty goods. Dealing with seven sisters, he has serious anxiety from what they put him through. Seeing an accident, he meets Lena who happens to work with one of his sisters.

At his sister’s birthday party, all hades breaks loose and Barry wants a therapist. Instead, he settles for a little phone time but the therapist would have been cheaper. When Lena goes to Hawaii on a business trip, Barry arrives to her surprise. After spending time together and returning home, Lena is in a car accident and now Barry is set in motion for chaos and only Lena can turn it all around.

Sandler and Watson play their roles together in such a way that it is crazy but, in a way, they seem perfect together. Sandler’s performance with the social anxiety and range makes for strange situations that either cause jaw drops or laughing hysterically. That’s the way a good love story should make us feel – a little crazy. It is also dark but some of us find humor in that dark space.  PUNCH-DRUNK love actually won for Best Director at the 2002 Cannes Film Festival.

Other cast include Mary Lynn Rajskub, Luis Guzman, Robert Smigel and Philip Seymour Hoffman as Dean Trumbell.

The disc includes 4K Ultra HD Feature Presented and Approved by Director Paul Thomas Anderson, Two Deleted Scenes, Mattress Man Commercial, Blossoms and Blood, Twelve Scopitones, Jon Brion Featurette, Recording Sessions and Theatrical Trailer.

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.

Columbia Classics 4K Ultra HD Collection Volume 4 is a breathtaking group of films that are iconic and even beloved. To make it even more enticing, is the way these films are packaged. Encased in a colorfully designed box are the six films with three on each side that have unique cover. In the middle is a truly beautiful hard bound book Columbia Classics: Love at The Cinema.

The book contains The Romantic Professionalism of HIS GIRL FRIDAY by Julie Kirgo, Provocation, Not Prescription: The Role of Art in Effecting Social Change by Sarita Cannon, Kramer Vs. Kramer: Whose Side Are You On? by Esther Zuckerman, The Hopeful Humanity of John Carpenter’s STARMAN by Mike Ryan, SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE’s Affair to Remember by Katey Rich, and Stronger Than Anything You Can Imagine by Mark Kermode. The eighty-page book speaks on the history & Impact of Films.

Celebrating 100 Years of Columbia Pictures, this collection is a must have for film lovers for the generations!

It is His Story of Being DARKMAN

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD and Bluray in a Collector’s Edition from director Sam Raimi and Scream Factory is the story of the DARKMAN.

Dr. Peyton Westlake (Liam Neeson) is in the process of developing a synthetic skin but can’t get it to last more than 99 minutes. Keeping him in the lab, he wants to help burn victims with his discovery. Girlfriend Julie Hastings (Frances McDormand) is also hard at work when she discovers that developer Lous Strack Jr. (Colin Friels) has been dealing in bribery. Strack warns her that a memorandum that she found needs to be returned to crime boss Robert G. Durant (Larry Drake).

Back at the lab, Dr. Westlake are still working on the synthetic skin, they are close to fixing the problem making it work. They are interrupted when mobster Durant demands the memorandum that Westlake knows nothing about. Chaos erupts as Westlake is beaten, burned and the lab destroyed as Julie witnesses it all.

Blown into the river, Westlake is found and taken to the hospital as John Doe where he is given a treatment so that he no longer feels pain. Now he has unusual strength and after waking from a coma, escapes the hospital. Julie thinks Westlake is dead and goes on with her work while Westlake attempts to create a face for himself. His anger gives him motivation to go after Durant.

When Julie sees Westlake is alive, he keeps himself in the dark fearing she would reject him if she saw his face. While together at a carnival, his anger overwhelms him as anger takes ahold and his face begins to fall apart. Durant is still watching them both and now he has Julie kidnapped and they try to kill Westlake. Westlake realizes that he can not return to his old life and knows he must walk away from everything he knows.

Neeson as Westlake takes on his role and gives it the darkness it needs. His towering tallness is perfect for giving that ominous feel of a man who wants revenge while also wondering if a life with Julie is possible. I just love Neeson’s portrayal and with Raimi guiding him, it all works. McDormand as Julie is a strong female presence in the film with a toughness of her very own. That’s important as this story needs both of them and McDormand has no difficulty standing up for her own character.

Other cast include Nicholas Worth as Pauly Mazzuchelli, Ted Raimi as Rick Anderson, Nelson Mashita as Yakitito Yanagito, Julius Harris as the Gravedigger, Jessie Ferguson as Eddie Black, Rafael H. Robledo as Rudy Guzman, Dan Bell as Smiley Rogers, Arsenio Trinidad as Hung Fat and Bridget Hoffman as the Computer Voice.

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 has to offer please visit www.shoutfactory.com.

Special Features include on Disc One are New 4K Restoration from the Original Negative in Dolby Vision Approved by Director Sam Raimi and Director of Photography Bill Pope, New Audio Commentary with Filmmaker and DARKMAN Superfan Josh Ruben, and Audio Commentary with Bill Pope.

On Disc Two include  New 4k Transfer from the Original Negative Approved by Sam Raimi and Bill Pope, New Audio Commentary with Josh Ruben, Audio Commentary with Bill Pope, “Dissecting DARKMAN” – Interview with Actor Liam Neeson, Interview with Actor Frances McDormand, “The Name is Durant” – interview with Actor Larry Drake, “The Face of Revenge” – Interview with Makeup Designer Tony Gardner, “Henchman Tales” – Interviews with Actors Danny Hicks and Dan Bell, “Dark Design” – Interview with Production Designer Randy Set and Art Director Philip Dagort, Vintage “Making-Of” Featurette – Interviews with Sam Raimi, Liam Neeson, Frances McDormand and More, Vintage Interviews with Sam Raimi, Liam Neeson and Frances McDormand, Theatrical Trailer, TV Spots, Still Galleries – Posters & Production Stills, Behind the Scenes, and Make-Up Effects and Storyboards.

Director Raimi takes this story and mixes together action, horror, revenge, adventure and a bit of humor to bring a superhero movie to life. It is also a dark film take takes a comic book character and brings it from page to screen. As I am a fan of Neeson there isn’t anything I can say that would turn me away from seeing it again and again.

DARKMAN was ahead of its time with Raimi bringing this fourteen-million-dollar story to the big screen at a time when superheroes were looking for their spot is everything. Fire up that big screen television (the bigger the better) and crank up the soundbar because it’s time for his return!

In the end – he is everyone and no one!

 

 

The Return of THE CANTERVILLE GHOST

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD from director Kim Bordon, co-director Robert Chandler and Shout! Studios comes a treat for the family with THE CANTERVILLE GHOST.

Coming from America, the Otis family has purchased Canterville Chase, a mansion that has a history of being haunted and causing residents to go a little crazy. Husband Hiram (David Harewood), wife Lucretia (Meera Syal), young boys Kent (Bennett Miller) and Louis (Jakey Schiff) are thrilled when they enter the mansion as Mrs. Umney (Imelda Staunton) opens the door. The only one not happy is daughter Virginia (Emily Carey) who wants nothing more than to go back across the pond.

Immediately, the family wants to see Sir Simon de Canterville (Stephen Fry) and the twins run around the house calling him out. Virginia makes it clear she has no intention of being happy about any of it all and goes up to her room. It takes mere moments before Sir Simon tries to frighten Virginia out of his home. The problem is, she isn’t at all! Instead, she plays on him challenging that Sir Simon that he can’t chase out her family in two weeks!

On the grounds, Virginia meets the Duke of Cheshire (Freddie Highmore) and that makes Sir Simone furious as he has anger toward the family. It seems his beloved wife Eleanor came from the Cheshire family who blamed Sir Simon for her death. Now Virginia knows a big part of the story as to the reason Canterville Chase has a ghost!

As the days pass, Virginia and the Duke become closer and her parents decide to throw a party re-introducing society to Canterville Chase. The problem is that Sir Simon is still angry and decides that the dinner not go without his own unique brand of entertainment. When things don’t go as planned, the family is upset with their ghost but Virginia feels there is something more that Sir Simon isn’t saying.

She decides to take matters into her own hands and that’s when the truth finally comes out!

Carey as Virginia is an American girl who wants to go home. She decides to use Sir Simon’s ghostly abilities to try and scare her family back to the United States. Instead, she finds herself on an adventure that has unexpected consequences. Carey truly gives voice to Virginia and it is fun, delightful and charming.

Fry as the voice of Sir Simon is hilarious most of the time (when he isn’t angry) and cannot understand how the new occupants are not frightened to have a ghost in their house. Instead, they seem to be trying to have fun with the apparition, especially the twin boys. I have always loved Fry’s work and watching him take on the vocal role of Sir Simon is everything fun about the film.

Highmore as the Duke of Cheshire is so sweet and a bit bumbly. He is immediately taken by the feisty and free Virginia. He knows that the ghost is in the house and even comes face to face with Sir Simon but nothing is going to keep him away from Virginia and happily joins in the adventure. When her life is in danger, the bumbly Duke of Cheshire finds it within himself to safe her from a fate – well, you get the point.

Laurie as the Grim Reaper gets to have a bit of fun with this character. Hiding behind who he truly is and what he is up to, Laurie takes us on a story ride with what he wants and how he plans to get it!

Shout out to Schiff and Miller as the Otis boys because, to be honest, that is exactly how I would be at their age. Challenges of a haunted house – absolutely accepted. They have no fear of any ghosts and show just how unafraid they are and it made me laugh so much.

Other cast includes Toby Jones as Reverend Chasuble, Miranda Hart as the Ghost Catcher, Giles New as the Colonel, Georgia Small as Majorie Fairfax, Keiron Self as Professor Borsakov, Bill Lobley as Lord Monroe, Elizabeth Sankey as Eleanor de Canterville, and Hugh Laurie as the Grim Reaper.

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 Factor has to offer please visit www.shoutfactory.com.

THE CANTERVILLE GHOST is absolute family fun for kids and the kids at heart. It has a fantastic story based on the writings of Oscar Wilde (and Stephen Fry actually played the role of the poet/playwright in the 1997 film WILDE). It is colorful, vibrant, action packed and has some very funny characters and moments.

This is the film that families can enjoy together because it is about a family and how they eventually come together. As nutty as some of the characters are, they are so much fun to watch as the story unfolds. Everyone can find something to love about the film and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.

The spooky season is here and if you are looking for a good time at the movies for the whole family then visit THE CANTERVILLE GHOST for a spooktacularly good time!

In the end – it is his house not yours!

THE MONK AND THE GUN

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writer/director Pawo Choyning Dorji and Roadside Attractions comes the story of dedication from THE MONK AND THE GUN.

In the Kingdom of Bhutan, it is 2006 and they are looking to become a democratic country. As the king gives up his power for a new way for the country, the government decides to hold a mock election as a way to show the people how to vote. The Head of the Bhutan Election Commission Tshering Yangden (Pema Zangmo Sherpa) to oversee it all.

In Ura, and elder Lama (Kelsang Choejey) who has been meditating for a time, tells the monk Tashi (Tandin Wangchuk) who sees to his needs that the Lama needs two guns by the full moon four days away. Tashi does not ask questions but instead begins his journey to find what the Lama has asked for walking down to the village.

The villagers are split on the two contestants of Lordo and Thinley and one family in particular is dealing with the duo. Working at the polling station is Tshomo (Deki Lhamo) wants to be part of the election process and show daughter Yuphel (Yuphel Lhendup Selden) how it works. Husband Choephel (Choeying Jatsho) is working with the Thinley campaigns must to the irritation of his mother-in-law and causes Yuphel trouble at school.

Back in Bhutan, Ronald Coleman (Harry Einhorn) has landed after discovering an antique that he must have. Telling Ron to refer to him as a tour guide, Benji (Tandin Sonam) takes him to Ura to meet with Mr. Penjor who has the gun he has been looking for. Making a financial agreement, Ron is excited and has to go hours away to retrieve the funds.

When Tashi also goes to visit Penjor only minutes later, the monk informs him that the Lama is in need of a gun. Without hesitation, Penjor gives him the weapon as a way of saying thank you for all the peace there has been in the village. Ron and Benji find out about it now the race is on to find the monk.

As voting begins, so does the set-up of the Lama making a huge announcement that is meant to be good for everyone and, as the Lama says, to make things right again.

Wangchuk as Tashi is a devoted monk who serves his Lama faithfully and without question. Being asked to look for two guns, the young monk accepts the assignment and begins his trek. In this small village he follows the leads to his goal. Once he obtains it, his trek back is equally interesting as his dedication is tested. I enjoyed watching Wangchuk gentleness which is so endearing.

Sherpa as Yangden comes into the village thinking she knows the people and what she comes to discover is the saying ‘know your audience’. Her interaction starts out very straight forward but slowly comes to understand this small village of amazing people. Lhamo as Tshomo is having difficulty being the go-between with her mother, husband and protector of her daughter. Lhamo shows us the struggle of new politics in a system the village doesn’t seem to want.

Sonam as Benji is doing what he has to do to pay the bills and get his wife the medical attention she needs. He is a bit desperate and is a fast talker, the problem is you can’t fast talk a monk, especially this monk. Einhorn as Ron is a man on a mission to get his hands on the most sought-after weapon. He wants it with every fiber of his being. Here is another character that doesn’t understand the people of the village.

Jatsho as Choephel believes that he knows what is best politically and doesn’t like the oppositions way of handling the campaign that leaves his wife uncomfortable. Selden as Yuphel is dealing with her own problems of the bullies at school.

Shout out to Choejey as the Lama who is the actual and only Lama of the village.

Other cast include Tandin Phubz as Phurba and Ugyen Dorji as the police. 

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 MONK AND THE GUN is a stunning, delightful, beautiful story that has a few giggles mixed in. To me it is the story of a change that very few want and a Lama who believes that he knows how to make it right. In the mix is a gun that so many seem to want but each has their own reason. The cinematography is as simple as the people living in the village.

Writer/director Dorji says of his film, “I wanted the Lama and the monk characters in the movie to personify the Bhutanese veneration to the culture and traditions of Buddhism. A personification where there is so much respect for the ordained that the rural people don’t even seem to question or flinch at the audacity of the monk with a gun, because there is so much trust that stems from the Buddha’s teachings that the ‘motivation behind an act is much more important than the act itself’. It is also important to highlight the value of symbolism in Bhutanese culture, how the symbolic power of items can, at time, be even more important than the item itself.”

What I found even more important about what Dorji had to say about the film is that, “One of the main reasons I wanted to tell this story is because I wanted to share with the world, and remind my fellow Bhutanese of the unique circumstances that lead to the opening up and modernization of Bhutan”. It is such a wonderful way for Dorji to share his culture and in such a unique way.

THE MONK AND THE GUN is such a wonderful film of family, culture, a village, a bit of greed and a resolution that is nothing short of spectacular. In their world of guns and James Bond, this film shows an understanding of the world creeping into Ura but yet Ura does not give up their beliefs or their love and respect of peace. Who they are as a people says everything.

This film is the submission for Best International Feature Film for the 94th Academy Awards for 2024.

In the end – a different perspective on peace and a gun!

THE PEASANTS

 

 

   

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writers/director DK Welchman, Hugh Welchman and Sony Picture Classics is a story of forbidden love and a life of no choices with THE PEASANTS.

The young and beautiful Jagna (Kamila Urzedowska) is a talented artist who is constantly talked about by the 19th century Polish villagers. Stories are being told by the men of the village and Jagna just ignores them having only heart for Antek Boryna (Robert Gulaczyk) who is married. The leader and richest farmer in town is Antek’s father Maciej (Miroslaw Baka) who has recently lost his wife.

It comes to his attention that the women of the village are suggesting he remarry and after going down a list of candidates, Jagna’s name is put forward. Daughter Hanka (Sonia Mietielica) is not happy to think that Jagna will be living with them and wearing her mother’s beautiful clothes and Antek fights with his father and is kicked out of the home. When a deal for land of Jagna’s own is struck, down goes the vodka and a wedding happens quickly.

There is nothing Jagna can do but accept her life as Maciej’s wife while still being talked about by the villagers but in much lower tones to keep from upsetting the new groom. When tragedy strikes, Jagna’s life becomes one trauma after the other. The only one who sees this is Mateusz (Mateusz Rusin) who wants to save Jagna before anything else can possibly happen to her.

But once an idea is in the minds of the villagers – nothing and no one is going to stop it from its path of destruction.

Urzedowska as Jagna is beautiful and a free spirit who just wants to be happy in her life without being told who to love. When it becomes clear that a deal has been struck for her life, she is not a happy bride but instead a stoic woman following along with the rituals of the village. Urzedowska is stunning in this role as she portrays the downsize of being young, beautiful and a free spirit in a time when women had no say so in their own lives. So well done!

Gulaczyk as Antek has fallen hard for Jagna and has put his own family, including his father, into the gossip soup of the village. Tearing a family apart for love, Antek can afford to become the talk of the town with no consequences, unlike Jagna. Gulaczyk gives his character a bit of obsession, a bit of cowardice and a bit of rage and tops it with no accountability. The 19th and 21st century are not so far apart with this character’s issues.

Baka as Maciej is a man who takes his village power seriously. As the top farmer in the village, he has a great deal of say about what happens. When he decides to marry Jagna, it sets up anger from his own family but doesn’t stop the rumors from flying. Baka’s performance is that of an insecure man who has so many layers that are hidden behind power.

Mietielica as Hanka is a daughter who is already angry that her father has taken on a younger wife who will take her mother’s place. She wants the family’s reputation, farm and wealth to stay intact and not fall into the hands of Jagna. The one thing I can say about Mietielica’s portrayal is that she is not going to be swayed by anyone, including her family, about how she feels.

Shout out to Mateusz as Rusin as a man who truly cares for Jagna and when the village goes rogue, it is this character who sees who Jagna truly is. I just love Mateusz’s character because he is consistent in his belief that the village is in some need of common sense.

Other cast include Cyprian Grabowski as Witek, Ewa Kasprzyk as Marcjanna, Cezary Lukaszewics as Michal, Dorta Stalinska as Jagustynka, Andrzej Konopka as the Mayor, Andrzej as Kuba, Helena Korczycka as Jozka, Sonia Bohosiewicz as the mayor’s wife, Maciej Musial as Jasio, Anna Grzeszczak as Magda, Malgorzata as Organiscina, and Lech Dyblik as Jambrozy.

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

THE PEASANTS is a stunning story being told but what adds an even more mind-blowing element is the painted animation technique of the film. The telling is over four seasons that are captured in such rich depth of color. This is the same used in the film LOVING VINCENT which is also a personal favorite of mine. This film took over five years and 200,000 hours to flawlessly complete.

The Welchman’s know exactly what they are doing when it comes to creating such elegant cinematography lovingly wrapped in a fantastic story of love, gossip and treachery. Once the story comes to a jaw-dropping crescendo, the ending will either leave you totally drained or wanting to stand out in the rain.

In the end – her life is in seasons!