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!

They Take BONES AND ALL on 4K Ultra HD

 

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD and Bluray from director Luca Guadagnnino, MGM and Shout Studios is the love story with BONES AND ALL.

It is the Regan years and Maren (Taylor Russell) is a young woman living a secluded life. Dad Frank (Andre Holland) is doing all he can to protect the girl from the world. Coaxed to go against her father’s wishes, Maren starts to stretch her teen-legs. Sneaking out one night to hang out with girlfriends turns disastrous and the duo can only run out of town.

In the morning, Maren discovers Frank is gone leaving her with a birth certificate, a few dollars and some tapes. She decides it is time to go find the mother she never knew. At the bus stop, Maren meets Sully (Mark Rylance), and discovers that she is not the only person with her, shall we say, condition.

Sully shares things with Maren that surprises her. The behavior that drives her are considered normal to Sully and nothing to be ashamed of. After a night of feasting, Maren realizes she needs to go – and quickly.

At her next stop she meets Lee (Timothee Chalamet) and is even more shocked at his openness and finding someone else like her in such a short amount of time. The make a connection as they feed when they can and drive down the country’s back roads toward Maren’s mother. When Maren discovers that Sully is not far behind, things begin to come unraveled and that is never where Frank intended for his daughter to end up and a mother’s love has boundaries.

Russell as the young Maren is absolutely riveting to watch. Not quite understanding the world, it is the secrets that are what make it difficult for this character to survive it all. She is trusting and yet pensive, angry yet confused to just wanting to live some semblance of a free life without fear. Even with a father, this character basically raised herself in many ways. As Maren learns about her condition, she becomes more aware of the dangers. Russell captures and exudes every spectrum of emotion and yet it is all so subtle that it quietly screams out to be noticed.

Chalamet as Lee is laid back casual with his own past he is dealing with. Not accepted by his own family, he keeps moving on down the road. Finding Maren, he now has something and someone else to focus on, even if they tiff a tad. Chalamet makes no excuses for who he is and tries to share that with Maren who is still learning to accept it all. Chalamet’s gives his character charisma (which I’m assuming is necessary for their condition) and non-apologetic for anything he does. Yet, something comes out in Lee the longer he is with Maren.

Rylance as Sully – oh my gosh, I’m ready to hand him awards, I don’t care which ones. I’ll make one if I have to! The character of Sully is slow, deliberate, eerie, needy, and informative. Speaking about his performance I was telling a friend that it is ingenious that as Sully, Rylance has once again shown why he one of the best actors of our time even though he freaked me out. At the same time, my granddaughter sees him as the 2016 loveable BFG (Big Friendly Giant)! That is the diversity of Rylance. As Sully, he states his case to Maren and then skulks into the background and I mentally beg him to get back on the screen.

Shout out to Michael Stuhlbarg as Jake for making me hold my breath. Your beer talking back woods screeching behavior will have me forever shook!

Other cast include Madeleine Hall as Him, Sean Bridgers as Barry, Anna Cobb as Kayla, Kendle Coffey as Sherry, Ellie Parker as Jackie, David Green as Brad, Jessica Harper as Barbara Kerns, Burgess Byrd as Gail and Chloe Sevigny as Janelle.

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.

MGM is a leading entertainment company focused on the production and global distribution of film and television across all platforms. Owning one of the world’s deepest libraries of premium film and television content and is home to two of the longest-running and most successful film franchise in cinematic history with JAMES BOND and ROCKY. For more please visit www.mgm.com.

Bonus Features include New 4K Presentation of the Original Elements, Presented in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and the Bluray includes New 4K Presentation of the Original Elements, A Look Inside, Luca Guadagnnino: The Vision of BONES AND ALL, Meet Lee, Meet Maren and Outsiders in Love.

The Venice Film Festival as awarded Taylor Russell with Best Actress with the Marcello Mastroianni Award, Best Director Silver Lion to Luca Guadagnino and nominated for the Best Film Golden Lion for director Guadagnino. The Gotham Awards nominated Mark Rylance for Outstanding Supporting Performance and nominated for Outstanding Lead Performance for Taylor Russell and UA/MGM.

The Hollywood Music in Media Awards gave a nominee nod to Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross for Best Original Song – Feature Film with ‘(You Made It Feel Like) Home’. Reznor is a member of the band Nine Inch Nails and took his music into films such as NATURAL BORN KILLERS, LOST HIGHWAY, THE SOCIAL NETWORK and THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO.

Director Guadagnino says, “There is something about the disenfranchised, about people living on the margins of society that I am drawn towards and touched by. I love these characters. The heart of the movie is tender and affectionate towards them. I am interested in their emotional journeys. I want to see where the possibilities lie for them, enmeshed within the impossibility they face. The movie is for me a meditation on who I am and how I can overcome what I feel, especially if it is something I cannot control in myself. And lastly, and most importantly, when will I be able to find myself in the gaze of the other?”

BONES AND ALL is an intense story but with so many different layers. It is a story of a young girls search for who she is and where she belongs, it is a story of being different, it is a story of stranger-danger, it is a story of abandonment and so much more. Even if you took out one of the elements, the story would still hold together.

That being said, it is, well, a feast for the eyes also on several levels. The issue of cannibalism is a huge distraction from the other issues that each of the characters have but it is part of who they are. After a few jaw drops, I winced a bit but my jaw stayed in place as the film went on. I began to understand that as with most unusual things human beings do to each other, Maren and Lee do not shy away but instead keep pushing forward. 

I loved this film on so many levels as well and the acting is so damn stellar. Watching BONES AND ALL again is something that I have to do because I want to understand even more about the direction Guadagnino takes these characters without the shock factor intruding. The cast has brought a story that is complex, complicated and worth every moment of big screen time.

In the end – it is a masticating love story!

The Holidays are Here with RED ONE

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday to really put a jingle in the holidays from director Jake Kasdan and Amazon MGM Studios is the story of RED ONE.

Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson) is the ELF (Enforcement Logistics and Fortification) security for Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons) and answers to M.O.R.A. (Mythological Oversight and Restoration Authority). Now Callum wants to retired after a few hundred years becoming disillusioned by how badly the world and those in it are behaving. Agreeing to one more flight, everyone is preparing and Ms. Claud (Bonnie Hunt) whips it all into shape.

All of a sudden, things go haywire and Callum realizes that Santa has been kidnapped on Christmas Eve! Who is responsible for this you might ask? Well one person is Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans) who unknowingly helped someone hack into Santa’s business giving out top secret information. He also has an estranged relationship with son Dylan (Wesley Kimmel). Tracking him down is Director Zoe Harlow (Lucy Liu) and after questioning him realizes he doesn’t know where Santa is. However, teaming him up with a disgruntled Callum, the two may be able to track down where he is.

That’s when they discover that Gryla (Kiernan Shipka), the winter witch, is responsible for everything. Callum thinks maybe she is working with Santa’s adopted brother Krampus (Kristofer Hivju) since he and Gryla once had a thing together. While Callum and Jack are running around the world, Gryla has started her own idea of how to handle the naughty and she already has someone in mind to test it out on.

Taking on Gryla, Callum and Jack aren’t not about to give up and an unexpected bit of help comes from an unlikely place!

Johnson as Callum is a rugged, tough looking and a bit solemn bodyguard for Santa Claus. He has the job down pat and does not have the patience for anything other than doing his job. When “Red” goes missing, Callum is not about to let anybody else find him. This is the perfect role for Johnson because he does gruff with ease and that’s not a bad thing. This is the first of two films he’s bringing this holiday season with MOANA 2 just waiting in the wings. Here, he gets to jump back into an action hero role once again and we are here for it.

Evans as Jack is a man who has, since childhood, made it clear that he has his own opinion about everything and owes no one nothing. Jack makes his money working for the highest bidder and that’s where he gets in trouble. Also, not spending quality time with his son doesn’t seem to faze him relying on Dylan’s mom to do the rearing. Coming across someone like Callum who isn’t dealing with excuses or nonsense. takes Jack on an adventure that has pitfalls coming close to loved ones. Evans runs with the role and since his sordid moments in DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE, he shows that adult humor pours out of him and it works.

Shipka as the winter witch has her reasons for wanting to take on the naughty list her way and it is ingenious actually. Her shapeshifting ways are very cool (with the help of special effects). Shipka gets a chance to be a bad girl herself and does so her own way. Hivju as Krampus is clever, hilarious and unexpected but I’d know that voice anywhere. He has a grudge against Santa so helping isn’t part of his master plan, he’d rather slap a few people around for fun.

Simmons as Santa is not what one would expect from a Claus. He is not round but he is physically fit and believes in what he does. Of course, his favorite part of the job is seeing the kids but he also takes care of the thousands of elves in his care and has a soft spot in his heart for Callum. I am thrilled Simmons gets to play Santa because I have always been a fan and followed his career. So, why not take on the role of Red and take it to levels we would never think of. He gives this ‘character’ just the right amount of twinkle in his eye and understanding in his spirit.

Lui as Director Harlow gets a chance to Charlies-Angels-up again with her moves but her job is to do one thing, get Red back to home before he misses Christmas! Lui is a strong character who matches Johnson’s toughness but then again, anyone in her role as Director would need to be I’m thinking. Kimmel as Dylan is a young boy who seems to resemble his father in the troubled department but it seems to happen in order to get his wayward father’s attention.

Other cast include Gursham Arya as Drako, Marc Evan Jackson as Uncle Rick, Mary Elizabeth Ellis as Olivia, Nick Kroll as Ted and Reinaldo Faberlle as Agent Garcia.

MGM is a leading entertainment company focused on the production and global distribution of film and television across all platforms. Owning one of the world’s deepest libraries of premium film and television content and is home to two of the longest-running and most successful film franchise in cinematic history with JAMES BOND and ROCKY. For more please visit www.mgm.com.

RED ONE is so much fun filled with adventure, lore, wonderment, surprises and twists. We screened it as a family and we all had such a good time watching the film. You can feel the holidays are just gearing up and in the air so starting it off with this particular story, well, it begs that families get together for a night out at the theatres.

Putting the Johnson and Evans together was a stroke of genius as they played off one another so well. Bouncing off with a good-guy-not-so-good guy seasonal relationship, it takes the film full circle in the best of ways. The film brings everything with action, adventure, polar bears, crazy snowmen, a dash of mythology and more. As the holidays approach, there will be a fair share of seasons greetings on the big screen and small and RED ONE is a fantastic way to start.

In the end – you better watch out!

It is the Return of the GLADIATOR II

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Ridley Scott and Paramount Pictures is the story of Rome, revelations and revenge with GLADIATOR II.

Versus (Paul Mescal) is a great warrior living in Numidia with family when the Romans come calling by sea lead by General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal). Versus is taken prisoner while vowing under his breath to kill Acacius, and is taken back to Rome where he is bought by Macrinus (Denzel Washington) to become a gladiator. Seeing something in Versus, he decides to use him against the two vicious and cruel Roman emperors.

Rome is being ruled by Emperor Geta (Joseph Quinn) and his brother Emperor Caracalla (Fred Hechinger). They are led by greed and personal gain rather than the people of Rome. General Acacius knows this and is becoming disgusted by it all. Returning home to his wife Lucilla (Connie Nielsen), he makes it clear that he no longer desires to live this way. Lucilla reaches out to others like Senator Gracchus (Derek Jacobi) to find a way to stop the corruption of Rome.

Versus proves that he has what it takes to be a gladiator by consistently taking on challenges to the delight of Macrinus as the mental wheels turn as to how he can rise even further in power. Pleasing Emperor Geta, Macrinus continues his frightful climb to the top by using everyone and anyone around him, including Versus.

There are secrets floating around Rome but one that is especially powerful enough to take down Emperors and those devious enough to believe they should be leader. In the tunnels of the colosseum, Versus finds the truth and the strength to take on the corruption of Rome!

Mescal as Versus is taking on a role that carries the story of the film. That is a monumental task following Crowe’s 2000 GLADIATOR story. That being said, Mescal gives us a strong performance of a man who is on his own journey of vengeance.  Versus’ past is about to catch up with him in ways he could never have imagined. I truly enjoyed Mescal in this role and the final scenes, I believe, seal him as an actor that has a far reach, even back into the Roman era. I’m ready for GLADIATOR III if he is!

Pascal as Acacius is a man who follows the orders of the emperors, whether he likes it or not is another thing entirely. The horrors that happened in Numidia seem the final straw. Pascal is just such a presence on the screen and the brooding character looks for answers without realizing it is his wife that might hold the key to freeing Rome. Nielsen returns as Lucilla who has not forgotten the ideals her father Marcus Aurelius instilled in her. She also has not forgotten her family and love that it has cost her. Turning to those who still believe, Nielsen’s presence in the film brings the story full circle.

Quinn as Emperor Geta is clearly deranged and, at first, I didn’t realize it was Quinn! Blonde hair and psychopathic actions are what this half of the emperorship this actor plays marvelously. Geta is frightening, powerful, and downright insane and Quinn pours it on every second he is on screen. Hechinger is the other half of the Roman insanity as Emperor Caracalla and a monkey who seems to be the only thing Caracalla relates to. If insanity could look cool, then Hechinger brings that and so much more.

Washington as Macrinus gets the opportunity to have the most fun giving his role a huge amount of wicked, plotting and devious behavior. I swear that the times he is smiling is because of the way he seemed aimlessly free to be this character without boundaries. It is a stunning performance and I was all in!  Jacobi’s return as Gracchus had to be there as a reminder of what the promise was of the original story. He is still standing for that and makes it clear he is willing to do whatever it takes to free Rome.

Other cast include Tim McInnerny as Thraex, Alexander Karim as Ravi, Rory McCann as Tegula, Alec Utgoff as Darius and Yuval Gonen as Arishat with appearances by Matt Lucas, May Calamawy and Peter Mensah.  

Paramount Pictures is the longest operating and remaining major studio in Hollywood that has been on the ground floor of every major development in film. From the advent of motion pictures to the emergence of television, through the digital revolution, Paramount Pictures has been there. During our 100-year history, we have served as the production site for thousands of notable movies and television shows. For more please visit www.paramountstudios.com.

GLADIATOR II follows the same formula as its predecessor and it is well done. Instead of trying to reinvent the chariot wheels, Ridley reminds us from the moment the films starts where the story began leading up to Versus. I was completely wow’d by the beginning graphics and mentally applauded it all. Once the actors began their roles, I knew I was going to enjoy this film.

As a fan of this genre of film, films such as SPARTACUS (1960) with Kirk Douglas, I knew the bar would be high for any story that followed. In 2000, Russell Crowe proved that stories about gladiators during the Roman era can be just as amazing. Mescal has taken the reigns of this genre and did so spectacularly well. His castmates also brought the history thanks to Nielsen and Jacobi and the twisted rulers with Quinn, Hechinger and damn, Mr. Denzel Washington if you please.

The visuals are big, bold and stunning with special effects that are extremely cool. Yes, I am keeping things close to the vest because it is important so see the secrets, twists and visuals for yourself. The audience was cheering, making ‘ewwww’ faces, and shouting out which, and it must be said, seemed very colosseum like which actually made the film more fun to see.

GLADIATOR II takes the audience back to a violent time but, at the same time, captivates for its two hour and twenty-eight-minute running time. Trust me when I say, it certainly didn’t feel like it at all. That’s because of director Scott’s ability to tell this story, the casts keeping our attention from beginning to end and great special effects. This film is absolute entertainment!

In the end – strength and honor!

THE BOY AND THE HERON on 4K Ultra HD and the Holidays

 

Jeri Jacquin

Just in time for the holidays from director Hayao Miyazaki, legendary Studio Ghibli and Shout! Studios comes the animated story of THE BOY AND THE HERON in time for gift giving.

Mahito Maki (Luca Padovan) is a young boy who lives in Tokyo during the Pacific War with father Shoichi (Christian Bale) who owns a munitions factory and mother Hisako. They are woken during the night to discover that the hospital is on fire and his mother Hisako is there. Trying to deal with her death, Mahito receives new that his father has married Natsuko (Gemma Chan) and is expecting a child.

Moving out of the city, the family takes up residence out in the country at an estate. Mahito doesn’t take to his new step-mother easily but is befriended by a Heron (Robert Pattinson). Finding ways to stay out of the house, Mahito follows the heron one day to a sealed tower! He is told it is the last place Natsuko’s granduncle (Mark Hamill) was seen. The heron returns and speaks to Mahito with a promise that Hisako is still alive. But Natsuko saves him from the words of the heron with an arrow giving Mahito the idea to create his own bow and arrows with the feathers of the heron.

Then Mahito begins to hear the maids calling out for Natusko who has disappeared into the forest. Deciding he should go help, Mahito and the maid Kiriko (Florence Pugh) go to the tower as he takes on the heron only to discover he is a Birdman. When a shadow of a wizard appears, Mahito and Kirko are taken to an ocean world and rescued again by Kiriko, a woman with a magic wand. He also meets Himi (Karen Fukuhara) who has pyrokinetic powers. In a world that entices Mahito with creatures, he finds a door back home still looking for Natsuko.

In the delivery room, Mahito and Natsuko still do not find a way to fix the gap between them. It is hurtful words that Mahito is Frozen in the world of paper. In a dream, he sees the wizard once again who wants him to create a better world by releasing malice by taking his place. When he doesn’t, The Parakeet King (Dave Bautista) attempts to do so but it fails. When flooding begins, Mahito, Himi and the Birdman find their way out reuniting with Natsuko.

It is time that Mahito realizes where he has been and what he truly wants for his family.

Other cast include Karen Takizawa as Warawara, Barbara Goodson as Aiko, Melora Harte as Eriko, Barbara Rosenblat as Utako, Denise Pickering as Izumi and Willem Dafoe as the Noble Pelican.

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.

The Boy and The Heron is available on 4K UHD Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray and DVD, and in a Limited Edition Steelbook that includes 4K UHD Blu-Ray, Bluray featuring Dolby Vision plus Dolby Atmos for the ultimate home entertainment experience from GKIDS with home entertainment distribution from Shout! Studios. This is the first title from Studio Ghibli to ever be released on 4K UHD.

Bonus features include Feature-Length Storyboard, Interview with Composer Joe Hisaishi, Interview with Producer Toshio Suzuki, Interview with Supervising Animator Takeshi Honda, Drawing with Takeshi Honda, “Spinning the Globe” Music Video, Teasers and Trailers.

THE BOY AND THE HERON is an absolutely stunning animated piece of filmmaking but then again, I would expect nothing less from director Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. The story is not just about a boy looking for more than one person but instead trying to discover how to release his own personal pain and accept the change that life brings. I love stories that are intertwined so that it becomes an adventure in itself to unravel the mysteries.

The animation is also absolutely stellar in every sense with amazingly bright colors, artistic renditions of the heron, the boy, the characters and the places that they go. Bringing the cast of famous voices is perfection and I am a huge fan of Dafoe and Hamill putting their voices to iconic character. The soundtrack isn’t overpowering but instead lets the story lead us all. That is what brings audiences to see Studio Ghibli’s work and why each one has resonated with fans. It is truly breathtaking and, I am thrilled that my own granddaughter has become a fan of this style of animation and of Hayao Miyazaki.

In the end – it is a boy’s journey discovering truths of who he is!

A SUDDEN CASE OF CHRISTMAS Starts the Holiday Season

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently in selected theatres and major digital platforms and coming to DVD soon from writer/director Peter Chelsom, Tinker Lindsay and Shout! Studios comes the holiday film A SUDDEN CASE OF CHRISTMAS.

Lawrence (Danny DeVito) owns a quaint hotel in the Dolomite Mountains in Italy and every year at Christmas the family visits. Now, it is summer and daughter Abbie (Lucy DeVito), husband Jacob (Wilmer Valderrama) and daughter Claire (Antonella Rose) are making a special mid-year trip. Lawrence believes he knows the reason why but is totally thrown when Abbie and Jacob explain that his reason couldn’t be more wrong. They couple has decided to separate and want Lawrence to break it to Claire.

When it comes out, Claire is frantic and spends some time alone. She then decides that if this is to be the families will be together for Christmas, then Christmas must come in August. Claire asks grandpa Lawrence to call her other grandparents, Rose (Andie MacDowell) and Mark (Jose Zuniga) to join them. All the while Lawrence is preparing the hotel for the “holiday” while still attending guests like Claudia (Valeria Cavalli). 

Immediately Claire goes into high gear making a documentary of their summer holiday. When the grandparents arrive, Walter is beside himself to learn that Claudia is someone he knows. Looking to Lawrence for help, he becomes almost invisible and Rose goes on having fun where she can find it. Meeting Claudia, the two women hit it off and become fast friends over time spent at archery with the handsome Don Michele (Francesco Salvi).

Just when Claire thought things were going to be fun, everything turns on its head and only love can save it all.

DeVito as Lawrence is a grandfather who would do anything to help the granddaughter he loves so dearly. Realizing that the problems with her parents are affecting her, when Claire comes to him with the Christmas idea, he is immediately on it. He also deals with hotels guests, slightly different employees and a priest that is in the middle of it all. I have always loved DeVito and the characters he plays and, in this film, he gives us the grandfather who starts to question his own reasons for staying.

Rose as Claire is a young girl preparing herself for what her parents are attempting to do and relies heavily on her doting grandfather. She is a charming young lady who runs the gambit of emotions of family, love, traditions and how to understand the craziness of the adults around her. Lucy DeVito as Abbie is a mother who has been working very hard in a job that totally stresses her out. In the process of that, she has disconnected somehow with her family and husband. Stressing out about it all is taking a toll and DeVito portrays it until she realizes what has happened.

MacDowell as Rose is a woman struggling to decide how she wants to spend her time now that she is retired. Feeling like she is missing a life connection, she feels it even more when she hears the story of her new friend. MacDowell is so charming in this role and I love every bit of it. Cavalli as Claudia is a woman who once grieved for her husband and in one night found something that has carried her year after year back to the hotel. This time she found a friend in Rose. Cavalli just floats through the film with her smile and it is wonderful.

Valderrama as Jacob wants so much to be a good father but is dealing with his own struggles after losing his job. Trying to discover where he fits in to life, it also affects his relationship with wife Abbie and he doesn’t know how to fix it. Zuniga as Mark is a man who is hiding from his mistake in a rather humiliating way. Unable to face it, he’d rather hide under the cover until the Christmas week has passed. Salvi as Don Michele is the suave eye-candy for both Rose and Claudia and it is hilarious (and yes, he is handsome!).

Other cast include Antonella Slavucci as Delfina, Tommaso Sacco as Aldo, Kate Muda as Johanna, Matteo Miraglia as Niccolo, Adrian Dunbar as Otto, Treyston Braine as Walter, Luca Bagnoli as Elicotterista and Roderick Hill as Phil.

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.

A SUDDEN CASE OF CHRISTMAS is a wonderful holiday film set in the beauty and grandeur of Italy. The cast bring it all alive in such a way that families watching the film will forget they are in another country. That’s because the story is all about family and the constant changes, friends who will do anything for each other and a holiday that brings everyone together.

This is a creative and fun holiday film to start off the season. There is nothing better than being reminded that it isn’t about the items we get for Christmas. Instead, it is about the people in our lives that are so very important to us that we want to be close to, gather to celebrate traditions and make the simplest effort to let everyone know they are love. Let the holiday cheer begin!

In the end – as long as there is love there is Christmas!

THE MAGIC REINDEER: Saving Santa’s Sleigh

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from directors Kari Juusonen, Jørgen Lerdam and Kaleidoscope Entertainment in time for the holidays is a lovely animated film about friendship and being THE MAGIC REINDEER: Saving Santa’s Sleigh.

Niko (voiced by Matthew Whelan) is a young reindeer having fun with his friends and family enjoying the snow life. As Christmas approaches, it is time for one lucky reindeer to become part of Santa’s Flying Forces. Niko wants to follow in dad Prancer’s (Paul Tylak) hoof-steps and become part of the team. What he needs to do is win a competition against newcomer Stella (Emma Jenkins). She is strong, fast and finds herself actually sharing in the rescue’s they both need!

Before the final task, Stella tells Niko that she just wants to see Santa’s sleigh. Niko decides to slip her in for a look and both are pretty astonished. The next morning, an alarm goes off and the announcement is made that Santa’s sleigh is missing, but so is Stella. Niko decides to go after the sleight and discovers an angry Ilmar (Dermot Magennis), who turns out to be Stella’s father. He has a grudge against Prancer and Santa and he is going to make sure there is no Christmas.

Knowing what her father is doing is wrong, Stella and Niko decide it is up to them to make things right again. It means calling on true friends and becoming braver than the young reindeers thought possible. 

Other cast include Roger Gregg as Dasher, Aileen Mythen as Wilma, Lucy Smith as Lili, Harry Moore as Jonni, Justin Anene as Morten, Luke Griffin as Comet, Brendan McDonald as Blitzen, Rodger Gregg as Einar and Michael Sheehan as Lenni.

Kaleidoscope is a global independent all-rights entertainment distributor, with theatrical, digital, physical and international distribution operations. The catalogue now contains more than 2,000 features. New titles include this year’s hit festive family animation The Magic Reindeer: Saving Santa’s Sleigh, the third film in the hit Niko series, family animation Gracie and Pedro: Mission Impossible and World War I action-epic Before Dawn. For more please visit www.kaleidoscopehomenetertainment.com.

THE MAGIC REINDEER: Saving Santa’s Sleigh is from the producers of The Amazing Maurice, THE MAGIC REINDEER: Saving Santa's Sleigh is the third film in the Niko series from co-directors Kari Juusonen and Jørgen Lerdam.

The film is absolutely charming, let’s start with that for sure. The holidays are such a magical time and sharing films with family, friends and extended family are truly important. There are the standard films about Christmas, Santa etc., but this film goes in another direction that is wonderful. Niko and Stella are young reindeer just finding their way through a winter wonderland of growing up and wanting to become a part of Santa’s Christmas expectations.

Watching THE MAGIC REINDEER: Saving Santa’s Sleigh with my own family we were giggling, awwww’ing and cheering. Watching the adventure of saving Christmas is filled with learning, loyalty, friendship and what it takes to make things right when they go wrong. The animation is stunning and colorful that keep the viewer captivated from the first frame till the last.

This film is so much fun that it needs to become a part of any family’s holiday list of films to enjoy.

In the end – it is a race to find Santa’s sleigh!

The Life of REAGAN on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Come to Bluray, DVD and Digital from director Sean McNamara and Lionsgate is the story of the rise of REAGAN. 

Andrei Novikov (Alex Sparrow), is visiting Viktor Petrovich (Jon Voight), a former KGB agent who has a story to tell about the fall of Russia. The reason he is asking Petrovich is because the man was given the mission to watch Ronald Reagan with the infiltration of Hollywood and what happens in Washington. Petrovich tells the story of Regan’s humble beginnings in Illinois and the troubles at home. He also makes it clear that ‘Dutch’ Reagan’s mother Nelle (Amanda Righetti) was the strongest influence on the young man.

Finding his way to Hollywood, Regan (Dennis Quaid) becomes a leading man at the Warner Bros. studios. When that doesn’t last long, he finds himself the president of the Screen Actors Guild in 1947. There is turmoil in Hollywood with the blacklisting and problems with Herbert Sorrell (Mark Kubr) and it is mixed with his marriage to Jane Wyman (Mena Suvarie).

Soon after, Reagan meets Nancy Davis (Penelope Ann Miller) and he turns to politics stomping for other politicians and running for governor of California. Dealing with protestors and disagreements in the state, Reagan holds his own. At a party, a pastor tells Reagan that he will become president but losing the nomination to Gerald Ford, he tries again in 1980 and fulfills the prophecy. A short time later Reagan is shot, clashes with the White House, deals with air traffic controllers, and begins to deal with Russia.

Even with the AIS crisis, Reagan wins reelection to the White House. It is Margaret Thatcher (Lesley-Anne Down) who talks Reagan into meeting with Mikhail Gorbachev (Olek Krupa) in 1985 to talk of nuclear disarmament. When things don’t go according to plan, Reagan has to deal with impeachment whispers and an arms-for-hostages deal that forces him to go public. In one of his final pushes, Regan demands that Gorbachev tear down the Berlin Wall to the praise of the people. Petrovich makes it clear that the Soviet Union did not understand their opponent and as a result, it is the end of an era.

After leaving the White House, Reagan’s life is remembered by people from all walks of life.

Quaid as Reagan attempts to bring the former Presidents to life with a swagger of a Hollywood leading man (not a far stretch). Once that has run its course, Quaid presents us with a man who has found his unlikely calling – politics. Learning quickly how the ‘game’ is played, Quaid invites us into that life. From Margaret Thatcher and Tip O’Neill, it is the biggest challenge with the back and forth of the Soviet Union and Gorbachev. Spaning the years, Quaid takes it all on ending with grace.

Miller as Nancy is given the opportunity to be the solid presence in Reagan’s life. Always supportive, Millers strength is there without many words needing to be spoken. History and journalists always showed Nancy this way but also as a strong woman who knew her own mind and wasn’t afraid to express it. Miller portrayed Nancy in this way. Suvarie as Wyman gives us a strong, opinionate and the Hollywood actress of the times.

Down as Thatcher is the strong British PM who knows that things are becoming strained and that the only way to get it under control is for Reagan to meet the leader of “the evil empire”. Krupa as Gorbachev has a dual relationship with the U.S. President. There is an understanding between two leaders but when it comes to what is best for his own country, Reagan won’t budge.

Voight as Petrovich tells his side of the story and doesn’t attempt to sugar coat it in any way. It is the story from his point of view and what he knew of Reagan and Voight gives us that portrayal. Righetti as Nelle is a small role but in that is a suggestion of why Reagan believed as he did about what was going on in the country at that time.

Other cast include Tommy Ragen as Dutch, David Henrie as young Reagan, Kevin Dillon as Jack Warner, Mark Moses as William Clark, Trevor Donovan as John Barletta, Robert Davis as Leonid Brezhnev, Jennifer O’Neill as older Nelle, Justin Chatwin as Jack Reagan, Dan Lauria as Top O’Neill, Will Wallace as Edwin Meese, Xander Berkeley as George Shultz, C. Thomas Howell as Caspar Weinberger, Nick Searcy as James Baker, and Darryl Cox as William Casey.

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.

The film REAGAN is actually based on the 2006 book The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism by Paul Kengor. The screenplay for the film was written by Howard Klausner.

REAGAN is an interesting film in that it attempts in its 141 minutes, the entire life of Ronald Reagan. From his difficult childhood to his last days, it is a grand attempt to get it all on film. Quaid carries the heavy lifting of the film going from young Hollywood star to riding into the sunset on his ranch. That will always be a difficult thing to achieve but Quaid takes it all on in good fashion.

It is interesting to know of Reagan’s history before Hollywood as the first time I saw him was on a series called Death Valley Days from 1964 to 1966 (one of my parent’s favorite shows). Only later did I realize that he was Governor of the state I lived in. His presidency followed me through school after that and into adulthood. The world was complicated during his two terms and, as a history buff, I found that part of the film fascinating.

In the end – he believed in his country!

BOGART: Life Comes in Flashes

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writer/director Kathryn Ferguson and Freestyle Digital Media is a documentary on one of the most iconic actors of our time with BOGART: Life Comes in Flashes.

Humphrey Bogart is a name that is synonymous with gangster/detective/tough guy roles but there is more to the man than that. Born in New York to a father, Belmont, who was a doctor and a mother, Maud, who was a famous illustrator, it seemed Bogart was going to find his own direction. It wasn’t through school where he couldn’t or wouldn’t fit in, or his time in the Navy as a way to avoid relying on family – it would begin as a young man doing odd jobs in a theatre.

Then Bogart finds himself on the Playhouse Theatre stage acting starting with Drifting and receiving reviews both good and bad. He found a bit of normalcy marrying fellow actor Helen Menken in 1926 but it only lasted a year. He also kept long hours and enjoyed drinking. He wouldn’t stay in New York as 20^th Century Fox snapped him up and started with the 1930 John Ford film UP THE RIVER. In the middle of this, Bogart married his second wife actress Mary Phillips.

It is actor Leslie Howard who wants Bogart to star in the next film, THE PETRIFIED FOREST along with Bette Davis. Playing the role of escaped murderer Duke Mantee, Bogart is now a recognizable face to film goers. Howard made it clear that “No Bogart, No Deal” and now Warner Bros. knew they had to give it a go. After this, Bogar is now under contract and is typecast as a gangster and working tirelessly. With the ending of his second marriage, Bogart finds love again with third wife Mayo Methot. It became clear to their friends that drinking, fighting and making up was their “love” language.

In 1947, Bogart finds himself in the world of politics, not as a runner but more as a spokesman for what he sees as the ills of the world and those causing it. Then comes a role that is one of the most memorable in motion pictures industry and that is THE MALTESE FALCON in 1941 as Bogart takes on the trench coat wearing Sam Spade. This is followed by CASABLANCA in 1943. As his third marriage is ready to crumble – enter the stunning beautiful Lauren Bacall and in 1946, the star in THE BIG SLEEP together. During this time, Mayo is becoming more and more violent toward Bogart and that marriage ends.

At the age of 47, Bogart falls in love for the last time and marries Bacall in 1945 and they become Hollywood’s IT couple. They also find themselves back dealing with what the government is doing. Bogart speaks about what he saw in Washington and is disgusted with what is happening to his fellow Americans. Because of it, he feels the heat. In his marriage he finds himself becoming a father but continues working bringing his 1950 film A LONLEY PLACE followed by the 1952 film THE AFRICAN QUEEN and garners Bogart an Academy Award.

Bogart becomes a father again and decides to start his own production company, Santana Productions and is in Europe filming BEAT THE DEVIL IN 1954 and then THE CAINE MUTINY in 1954. Becall is also keeping busy filming HOW TO MARRY A MILLIONAIRE in 1953. In 1956, an opportunity for Bogart and Bacall to once again make a film together. That is put on hold as it becomes clear that Bogart is ill. In January 1957, he succumbs.

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

Archival footage speaking about Bogart come from Ingrid Bergman, son Stephen H. Bogart, Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart himself and more with narration by Kerry Shale. These are Bogart’s own words from unseen archives, letters, interviews and those who were close to the actor.

When Bogart died, he left behind memories of a life off the big screen and a larger than life imagine on the big screen. It is wonderful to experience in this documentary to see the life of a man most only know as an amazing actor. I believe that sometimes we forget that there is a life history in the lives of our favorite performers and BOGART: Life Comes in Flashes gives us such deep insight to his beginnings.

To learn that he took a turn so far away from what his parents wanted and became successful for it is only half the story. It was not overnight fame but instead a long line of a constant pushing from Broadway to Hollywood. He looked for love and although each marriage was to an actress, it showed his need for something stable in the midst of the craziness of Hollywood. It would be the last years of his life that he would finally find exactly what he was looking for.

A Bogart fan since I was in my teens, I can honestly say that BOGART: Life Comes in Flashes is an amazing piece of filmmaking about an iconic actor. Hearing from his friends, fellow actors and final love, Bacall, is all brilliantly brought into the documentary by director Ferguson. Learning about his final days is equally stunning knowing that he was surrounded by love, friends, and family – these are things I never knew. Now, everyone will get a chance to experience it all and get to know the true Humphrey Bogart.

In the end – here’s looking at you Bogie!

 

 

 

 

 

They Need to Stay at ELEVATION

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director George Nolfi and Vertical comes a story of survival and going below ELEVATION.

It is a post-apocalyptic world of fear filled with vicious creatures below 8,000 feet and in the Rocky Mountain above the line are people trying to survive. Will (Anthony Mackie) is a well-known man in the community who has a young son, Hunter (Danny Boyd, Jr.) who relies on a breathing machine at night. Realizing he is running out of canisters for the device, the only answer is to go below 8,000 feet to a hospital who would have what he needs.

Deciding to make the trip, Will turns to former scientist Nina (Morena Baccarin), a woman who stays secluded and drinks, for information since she is the only person to survive the first wave. Not receiving a warm welcome, it is Katie (Maddie Hasson) who makes it clear that Will is not going to be taking on the run on his own.

Coming up to the line, the three realize what will happen once they cross over. Every step they take is a signal to what is out there and they come with a fury. Will is looking for what his son needs but Nina is looking for something more. Back in her lab, she looks to see if the work they were doing has answers. It may seem simpler to go down 8,000 feet but it’s getting back up that will define their humanity.

Mackie as Will is a father who is not only dealing with a young son’s illness, but also the death of loved ones. His future depends on teaching his boy not to cross the line but also how to survive in their small community. When it’s time to go down the mountain, Mackie gives his character strength and something the creatures will never understand – a father’s love.

Baccarin as Nina is a woman on her own mission of survival. Spending her days in a bottle of booze for decisions she made, Nina also spends her time on a goal – how to defeat the terror. Maccarin gives the performance of a broken woman who doesn’t seem to fear anything as a way of mentally surviving. It’s a strong performance and along side Mackie brings a good story.

Hasson as Katie is a friend to Will and doesn’t so much care for Nina but, isn’t going to let either go down the mountain alone. Going head-to-head with Nina is the tension on the road. Boyd, Jr. as Hunter is a young boy who totally relies, as he should, on his father. His worse fear is about to come true with Will going down the mountain.

Vertical is a global independent distributor that offers a unique wealth of experience minus the studio costs. They have won a Film Independent Spirit Award for Best Actress for Molly Shannon’s role in OTHER PEOPLE and the film won a GLAAD Award for Outstanding Film Limited Release, Best International Film for Babak Anvari’s UNDER THE SHADOW, a BAFTA and three Independent British Independent Film Awards as well. For more go to www.vert-ent.com.

Director Nolfi says of the film, “Imagine a world where 95% of the population has perished and the remaining people live in a community untouched by the death and destruction below. The question that intrigued me was, could humanity truly thrive in such a world? What would people become when all their physical needs are met, but they are isolated from the rest of the world? This is a gripping journey where our characters must venture below and it’s in this descent that we confront a deeper question: Is the very technology and intelligence that helped us evolve and create great civilizations also driving us toward destruction?

ELEVATION is a post-apocalyptic world that Nolfi has brought keeps this world focused and simple. Mackie, Baccarin and Hasson lead the story and take us on a literal step-by-quiet-step journey to not only save a boy but find an answer for the rest of humanity. I am a huge fan of this genre and actually love that the film has been done in this way. Of course, the creature element is always good but it is the human interaction to it all is what is compelling. The need to take care of those remaining and the desire for answers is equally as good when done as well as is here.

In the end – don’t go down without a fight!

They Stay BEYOND THE WASTELAND

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Digital followed by Bluray in January from writer/director Vardan Tozija, Darijan Pejovski and Well Go USA is the world BEYOND THE WASTELAND.

Marko (Matej Sivakov) and his father (Sasko Kocev) live in the deep woods surviving after the world seems to have fallen apart and people have become infected called the Evil Ones. His father teaches Marko how to survive but little else in the way of a father/son relationship. Instead, the boy’s life is full of rules, what not to do, survivalist tactics and silence are what he is raised on.

Retrieving water one day, Marko comes upon a camper in the middle of the woods. Investigating, he discovers toys and to his shock, another boy! Miko (Aleksandar Nichovski) shares the afternoon of boyhood fun with Marko and it is only interrupted by Ana (Kamka Tocinovski), Miko’s mother who is just as surprised to see another boy.

Marko’s father is angry when the boy returns with no water and questions him about where he has been. Later, the boy asks questions about his mother, something he has not done before and isn’t given much in the way of answers. Deciding to deal with things on his own, Marko decides he needs to go to the Stone City to find answers and, after an incident, decides to take Miko with him.

When Marko’s father discovers him gone, the hunt is on to find him. It doesn’t stop Marko from continuing on his journey and what he discovers is frightening and an answer that will shake up everything!

Sivakov as Marko is absolutely amazing in this role of a young boy who begins to understand that following his fathers’ daily commands isn’t really living. As he begins to question his father about the family and life beyond the forest, circumstances begin to change. Sivakov gives us a performance of a savvy young boy who is still just a young boy. Once he leaves the forest, he realizes the reasoning’s for his father’s behavior. I just loved watching Sivakov develop the role of Marko and it is truly a beautiful performance.

Nichovski as Miko is just a loving, fun, giving, understanding and clever young man with a disability that survivors don’t understand. Being with Marko is important to the boy as their friendship is based on the understanding of being a boy. Nichovski’s portrayal of Miko does double duty on the heartstrings from warming it to squeezing the life out of it. Well done young man.

Kocev as Marko’s father is a man trying to survive while teaching his young son to be a survivalist. He has memories of his own and decisions that, instead of flowing with emotion, cause him to be harder toward Marko. He is taken by surprise when his son wants to know more and now there is a returning fear in this man’s eyes. Kocev takes his role and gives it the right amount of grit needed to understand Marko.

Other cast include Toni Mihajlovski as John, Vladimir Tuliev as Man in the Overcoat, Tara Popova as Mark’s sister, Verica Nedeska as Marko’s mother.

Well Go USA Entertainment is a theatrical and home entertainment company specializing in bringing the best Action, Genre and Independent films from around the world to North American markets. As a leader in independent film distribution, Well Go USA Entertainment’s titles can be seen across a variety of platforms including theatrical, digital, subscription and cable VOD, packaged media and broadcast television. Well Go USA Entertainment currently releases three to five films per month. To see more please visit www.wellgousa.com.

The film was Awarded Programmers’ Choice Award at the 26th Annual Dances With Films: NY., the city’s leading indie film festival. In addition, the film was awarded a Special Mention/Balkan Competition and nominated for the Grand Prix at the Sofia International Film Festival. The film came from the Republic of North Macedonia (a co-production between North Macedonia, France, Croatia, Luxembourg and Kosovo.

BEYOND THE WASTELAND is a slow-moving film that needs to be so. The story unravels at a pace one would expect survivors to live after human catastrophe. Going on that ride is one that will not disappoint because it is Marko’s story in the grand scheme of things. It is the story of a boy who lives as he should until the questions become larger and larger about his life and where he feels he needs to be to get answers.

Keeping the cast extremely small is what makes this film easy to go along with. Taking out the noise, we the viewers have our attention directed where it should be – with Marko and even Miko as young boys trying to make it to being young men. The world around them is beautiful when it is not being savage. This is a film that should be savored from start to shocking finish!

In the end – he is a truly special boy!

 

The Story of How IT ENDS WITH US on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and on Digital from director Justin Baldoni and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the story of how IT ENDS WITH US.

Lily Bloom (Blake Lively) is dealing with the death of her father but not in the way mom Jenny (Amy Morton) understands. Back in Boston, Lily is up on a rooftop thinking about what happened with Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni) arrives on the rooftop as well and seems a bit unnerved. When he realizes Lily is there, a chemistry begins between the two and he is intrigued by the fact that Lily is not under his spell.

The next day, Lily is thrilled to get the keys to a shop she is going to open. Needing a caring touch, she is interrupted when Allysa (Jenny Slate) comes in with a big personality and wins Lily over and a job as well. Not too much later, Lily finds out that Ryle is Lily’s brother and is introduced to her husband Marshall (Hasan Minhaj). Spending time together, there is a mishap in Ryle’s kitchen and Lily gets injured.

When the shop opens, there is celebrating all around as the couple double date at a new eatery. Getting ready to order, Lily is shocked to see Atlas (Brandon Skylenar), someone who was extremely important in Lily’s younger years. They try to catch up but its an awkward situation and Ryle is unnerved. Then comes marriage and Lily believes things are going well. Even seeing Atlas one more time, she lets him know she is happy.

But a moment comes when Lily must decide what is true about her relationship, the memories that have come flooding back and is what she discovers going to become a generational pain.

Lively as Lily is absolutely stunning in this role. It seems a good fit actually as Lily is coming into her own yet there are so many shadows that she hasn’t come to terms with yet as Lively portrays all of it. This is a powerful role and it takes its time diving into it all and when it unwraps, so do all the emotions.

Baldoni as Ryle gives his role the right amount of everything to make his character believable. By this I mean it isn’t an out and out frightening performance but instead, subtle, in ways this character hasn’t been performed before. Baldoni gives the charm that, like Lily, allows us to see what we want to see. Well done.

Skylenar as Atlas has a history with Lily that not only does he refuse to forget but a love he can not let go of. When life separates them, it is the same life that brings them back together again. He sees her lot and once again feels the protectiveness over Lily. Skylenar is the quiet in the middle of the storm but also is the safe space that Lily hasn’t recognized yet.

Slate as Alyssa is a wild and whacky friend to Lily and sister to Ryle. She finds a friend in Lily but also sees what could be happening with her. I enjoyed watching her nuttiness and the relationship with co-star Minhaj as Marshall. He is just as charming and whacky as his wife so they are a perfect pairing for the film. Morton as mom Jenny has a secret past of her own that she refuses to acknowledge and instead focusing on trying to better her relationship with Lily.

Other cast includes Isabela Ferrer as the younger Lily, Alex Neustaedter as the younger Atlas, Kevin McKidd as Andrew Bloom, Robn Lively as Ms. Byland and Emily Baldoni as Dr. Julie.

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Author Colleen Hoover published It Ends With Us in 2016 and says it is the hardest book she has ever written because it explores the themes of emotional turmoil and domestic violence. The book has been translated into twenty different languages and sold over one million copies worldwide. It quickly debuted at number 1 on The New York Times best seller list. Hoover wrote her next book It Starts With Us in 2022 and the relationship between Lily and Atlas.

Lively, Baldoni and Skylenar bring the story to life with amazing performances. Delving deep into the story, there are so many connections and also disconnects that come through that it feels relatable. That is why I believe the film is so successful. Those who love the book are immediately drawn to the film and are not disappointed. This is a film I see watching again and again.

In the end – it does end with us!