THE LEGEND OF OCHI

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writer/director Isaiah Saxon and A24 comes the story of two who would become unexpected friends because of THE LEGEND OF OCHI.

On the remote island of Carpathia, Yuri (Helena Zengel) is a young girl surrounded by boys who are being trained by father Maxim (Willem Dafoe). They are training to fight creatures that live in the forest called Ochi that they hunt at night. Yuri is going on her first hunt with Maxim and his ward Petro (Finn Wolfhard) late into the night and for the first time she sees the Ochi. As gun shots ring out, it is an infant Ochi that Yuri sees racing high into the trees while the others scatter.

During dinner, Yuri experiences a sad like contempt Maxim seems to feel and it is enough to send her out to check Ochi traps that surround their home. She notices that one of the traps has been tripped and follows a trail that leads her to the small Ochi. Knowing that she must help the creature, she is confronted by Petro who is shocked at what he sees. Clearly unmoved by her goal, Yuri sets out to get the small Ochi back to her own family. The problem is that Maxim gathers up his boy-troops and set out to find her.

The only person she did not plan to find is mom Dasha (Emily Watson) who has been living on her own isolated from people. Trying to understand why, Yuri listens to Dasha’s stories about the Ochi, especially since she discovers that she can communicate with the little one. That pushes her even more to want to return her new friend back to its family. When Petro finds Dasha’s cabin, Yuri’s parents come face to face with the decisions that made long ago.

Yuri and little Ochi’s adventures are far from over as the two grow closer to understanding one another!

Zengel as Yuri is a young girl dealing with the disconnect with her father and the unknown about her mother. It is easy to listening to her father’s side of the story but it doesn’t match with his behaviors toward the girl. Zengel gives Yuri a spark that makes it clear that she is not a girl to be trifled with and knows exactly how she is seen. It is not in what she may say but the look in her eyes proving she will not be deterred from what is right for her – and for her friend. Dafoe as Maxim is a man driven by fear of the unknown and living by the lies he perpetrated on his own. Training the young men to fight the Ochi, Dafoe has his little army that see him as a leader but Yuri has her own beliefs.

Wolfhard as Petro is a ward of Maxim’s raised to fight the Ochi. One moment he seems to be a friend to Yuri and the next he seems to show loyalty to Maxim. It is a quiet role for Wolfhard who has become a very tall but still very recognizable young man. Watson as Dasha is a mother who has her own story with Maxim and it interfered with being a mother to Yuri. She has her own story to tell about the Ochi and will not suffer Maxim a moment longer than she has to. I love Watson’s character being strong enough to stand her ground but also know when she must come out of the shadows for her daughter.

Other cast include Razvan Stoica as Ivan, Carol Bors as Oleg, Andrei Anghel as Vlad, David Baltatu as Gleb, Eduard Oancea as Pabel, and Tomas Ghela as Tudor. The vocals of the Ochi are Zoe Midgley as Mother Ochi and Paul Manalatos as baby Ochi.

A24 is an independent entertainment company that specializes in film and television production based in New York City. Films such as A GLIMPSE INSIDE THE MIND OF CHARLES SWAN III, the amazing EX MACHINA, ROOM and THE WITCH. Many of their films can be found on DirecTV Cinema and Amazon Prime. For more information, please visit www.a24films.com.

THE LEGEND OF OCHI is a story about a young girl who finds a friend who is also looking to reconnect with family. Yuri understands that at the beginning but as the story unfolds, she realizes there is more of a connection than she could have ever imagined. In all her young years, she could never have imagined that the connection to an Ochi would change her life in so many ways. It is such a lovely tale that is told with Zengel carrying a large portion of the film in spectacular fashion.

Keeping the film simple, director Saxon uses nature as the set allowing the actors to move so freely between the tough farm life and the lush green of the forest to creating the Ochi home himself. Scouring the Carpathian Mountains in Romania, he wanted to find a place that looked as mysterious as the story he wrote. Since the dialogue is minimal, it is up to the surroundings to lead us on the adventure with Yuri.

This is not a film that moves quickly, instead, allows us all to connect with the characters on our own levels because of our own experiences. It is letting the character of Yuri show us her life and the measures she takes to show her strength and do what’s right, no matter the outrageous fears of others. It is a combination of charm and understanding and I think we could all use that right about now.

In the end – it is an unexpected friendship with an unexpected friend!

 

 

TOMBSTONE Returns on 4K Digital

 

Jeri Jacquin

Now on 4K through Digital (Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango At Home) from director George P. Cosmatos and Walt Disney Home Entertainment comes the return of the classic western TOMBSTONE.

Wyatt Earp (Kurt Russell) is a man everyone knows as a retired officer of the law. It is 1879 and Wyatt meets up with his brothers Virgil (Sam Elliott) and Morgan (Bill Paxton) in Tucson, Arizona. Deciding to settle down, they are joined by Doc Holliday (Val Kilmer) who is ill with tuberculosis. The brothers decide to open up a saloon and casino to make their fortune. It doesn’t take long before they encounter the infamous Cowboys. Curly Bill (Powers Boothe) is one of them and during a stagger, he shoots the town marshal.

Watching him get away with murder, Virgil becomes the new marshal banning weapons in the city limits. Although Wyatt is in a relationship with Mattie (Dana Wheeler-Nicholson) who has a big problem, he finds himself drawn to the lovely actress Josephine Marcus (Dana Delany) who is in town performing with Mr. Fabian (Billy Zane). The Cowboys are going after the Earp brothers leading to a gunfight that brings the family in danger. If they think the brothers are going to go down easy, they don’t know the Earp brothers that includes Doc.

Now, the Cowboys are on the run because there is a new marshal in town and he vowed to put an end to the Cowboys reign of madness. A few of them have crossed over to Wyatt’s side and the chase is on. Johnny Ringo (Michael Biehn) is determined to fight on as Doc begins to fall from his illness. Taking respite at rancher Henry Hooker’s (Charlton Heston) place, one move change everything for Wyatt and his family cementing their names in history.

Russell as Wyatt is cool as a cucumber, until it is time not to be. Wanting to get away from being a lawman, he found that money owning a saloon and casino. Russell plays his role by watching everything that happens around him and sees things others might not notice which is why he is quick to draw when necessary. I just love his portrayal of Wyatt and the strength to lead his family. Even as things fall apart for him personally, Russell gives us a leader, strategist and a man who will protect his family at all costs. It is riveting to watch the story unfold and Russell’s part in the story.

Elliott as Virgil is, and let’s be honest, sheer perfection. He fits in a western with his southern drawl and tall presence so playing Virgil works. Portraying Virgil, he is a family man and wants to do what’s best for his family. When they are in danger, Elliott’s Virgil becomes a lawman with Wyatt keeping and eye on everything. Anything Elliott does is very cool indeed so having him as part of this cast is iconic. Paxton as Morgan believes in Wyatt and trusts that he will do the right thing. He sees Wyatt as the leader of the family and follows when it is time to take on the bad guys, Paxton’s Virgil is right in the mix.

Kilmer as Doc Holliday created a memorable character with line delivery that are said even today thirty years later. This role brings a sickly man with a southern drawl who would do absolutely anything for Wyatt. He sees him as a brother and Kilmer is spot on from the moment he steps on the screen. It is a mixture of admiration and sadness to see the film once again as Kilmer steps onto the scene. He gives Doc smarts, razor sharp sarcasm, an intense feel of a man who doesn’t let much get by him. Kilmer will always be remembered for his infamous delivery of the line, “I’m your Huckleberry” (it basically means ‘bring it on!’) and has been put in the world-wide vocabulary. I’ve heard so many people use it and Kilmer made it happen.

Boothe as Curly Bill is a gun slinger that isn’t afraid to take on the Earps, in fact, he makes it look like a game that nothing will stop him from winning. He gives tough looks, sly grins and the right menacing attitude, well done Boothe. Beihn as Johnny Ringo is a man who is looking for a fight, and if he can’t find it, he will create it. Chaos is a drug to him and no one will get in his way, and that includes his own gang. Beihn gives it his evil all and it works splendidly.

Delaney as Josephine falls for Wyatt knowing of his relationship at home. That doesn’t stop her from getting to know him and realizing his life is filled with danger. Delaney is lovely in this character who doesn’t rattle easy but also doesn’t suffer fools. Shout out to Charlton Heston as Hooker! He fit in with the rest of the cast and although his role is a small one, Heston is an actor for all seasons and I was thrilled to see him in the initial release of the film.

Other cast include Billy Claiborne as Wyatt Earp III, Harry Carey, Jr. as Marshal White, Billy Bob Thornton as Johnny Tyler, Peter Sherayko as Texas Jack, Jon Tenney as Johnny Behan, Stephen Lang as Ike Clanton, John Corbett as Johnny Barnes, Buck Taylor as Turkey Creek, Thomas Haden Church as Billy Clanton, Tomas Arana as Frank Stillwell, Joanna Pacula as Big Nose Kate, Michael Rooker as Sherman McMasters, Paula Malcomson as Allie Earp, Lisa Collins as Louisa Earp, Paul Ben-Victor as Indian Charlie, Terry O’Quinn as John Clum, Frank Stallone as Ed Bailey, John Philbin as Tom McLaury, Jason Priestley as Billy Breakenridge. The film is narrated by the legendary Robert Mitchum.

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

Bonus Materials include The Making of Tombstone with An Ensemble Cast, Making an Authentic Western, The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, Director’s Original Storyboards: O.K. Corral Sequence, Trailer and TV Spots.

TOMBSTONE is an iconic film that hasn’t shown any signs of stopping even 30+ years later. It is a film that is cinematically thrilling to watch and if you love westerns, I think you might agree with me. The authentic look on the screen is an added character in the film. The story doesn’t hold back as the fight is not just in the streets but the saloons as well. Lines such as, “You called down the thunder!” and “I’m your huckleberry” have continued to enthrall people who are not going to let a film like this fall. Yes, I’ve used those a time or two myself and I’m proud to admit it.

Releasing the film is a mixture of thrill and sadness with the recent passing of Kilmer. Recently at CinemaCon, co-star Tom Cruise said of him, “I’d like to honor my dear friend Val Kilmer. I really can’t tell you how much I admire his work, how much I thought of him as a human being, and how honored I was when he joined TOP GUN and returned for TOP GUN: Maverick.” Even Russell said, “We had a tremendously trusting relationship. He was a sharp guy; I found his reasoning to always be solid on anything that had to do with the movie.”

This story is one that has always fascinated me being a history buff, and the story is based loosely on the events that lead up to the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. It also follows Wyatt’s revenge on the Cowboys as history refers to it as Earp Vendetta Ride. It is clear that the director was going for total authenticity down to the actor’s learning weaponry and the unmistakable mustaches. All of that is what drew audiences into theatres, then to DVD, Bluray and now amazing 4K HD and it is well deserved.

It is time to saddle up and ride once again with the Earps into history. Grab popcorn and turn up the soundbar as TOMBSTONE is a film that deserves to be enjoyed again and again.

In the end – justice is coming!

 

 

They Are SINNERS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from writer/director Ryan Coogler and Warner Bros. Pictures is the story of brothers and SINNERS.

It’s Charleston, Mississippi in 1932, Smoke and Stack (both played by Michael B. Jordan) are twin brothers who are leaving Chicago behind returning to the south. They immediately set up shop by purchasing property to open up their own juke joint. Looking for talent, they turn to their cousin Sammie (Miles Caton) to bring his guitar playing blues voice and fellow musician Delta Slim (Delroy Lindo).

In town, they gather what’s needed for an opening night with the help of Bo Chow (Yao) and his wife Grace (Li Jun Li) and doorman Cornbread (Omar Miller). Smoke is taking time to revisit Beatrice (Tenaj L. Jackson) and asking for her help with the opening. Stack runs into Mary (Hailee Steinfeld) but wants to avoid any problems and at the same a woman named Pearline (Jayme Lawson) catches Sammie’s eye.

Opening night is a raging success and Sammie performs bringing the music to a whole new level. So much so that it catches the attention of Remmick (Jack O’Connell), a stranger who wants one thing – to take each person and make them part of his deranged family. When Smoke and Stack realize something isn’t right, the fight against evil begins.

Jordan as Smoke and Stack play two brothers with different temperament and that makes it easy to tell them apart. Believing they can start a successful business, the opening night shows promise. Each brother is watching the business and could never imagine that coming home means dealing with the devil. Jordan makes playing both characters look easy and brings in the believability that he is the two brothers.

Caton as Sammie is a young man who wants more than to be the son of a preacher and farm hand. He sees music as a way out of the life he is in much to the dismay of his father. The music is everything and Caton brings the blues to a whole other level. Lindo as Slim is there for Smoke and Stack and sees something special in Sammie. Lindo has always been a powerful presence on the screen and in this film, he continues his reign.

Steinfeld as Mary is a strong woman who refuses to give up on her feelings of love for Stack. She knows that to make him admit his feelings, Mary has to go to the juke joint no matter what the group might say. Jackson as Beatrice is a woman who understands what is happening and is motivated by her love of Smoke. I loved watching Jackon’s performance as it is steeped in a history with Smoke that is poignant and mysticism.

Yao and Li Jun Li are a couple that also have a history with Smoke and Stack so when they brothers ask for help, a little negotiating happens and they also enjoy the opening night. There is a moment where Li had the entire audience groaning with, “no she didn’t!” and then we all broke out laughing. Miller as Cornbread is hired for his strength but that doesn’t mean he is safe from what is outside the juke joint door.

O’Connell as Remmick has a goal, to get as many people on his side of the fight as demonically possible. Filled with song and dance, Remmick makes it clear that he wants Sammie most of all. I loved watching O’Connell morph into this character that is so dark and charming at the same time. His character has an agenda and isn’t going to let Smoke, Stack or anyone else get in his way, especially when he has a small army behind him.

Other cast include Helena Hu as Lisa Chow and Sam Malone as Terry, Saul Williams as Jedidiah, Andrene Ward-Hammon as Ruthie and David Maldonado as Hogwood.

SINNERS has the feel of the 1996 film DUSK TILL DAWN and the director is keenly aware of that. He has every reason to be proud of his script using southern history and mysticism as a catalyst for storytelling. Coogler sees directors Christopher Nolan, Steven Spielberg and cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema are an inspiration. Coogler says, “I’m excited to announce that SINNERS was captured on film, that’s a format I fell in love with when I was in film school.” Using a big-boy format, Coogler shot the film on two different large-film formats of Ultra Panavision 70 and IMAX 65 film camera.

That means the film is being shown to audiences as big as the story itself. A running time of 137 minutes, there isn’t a moment that isn’t filled with the story becoming bigger and bigger with twists that are wrapped up in music. Coogler keeps the cinematography simple letting the story take over with a juke joint as a character itself. It is a protection wall between those inside and what’s outside. The cast is absolutely stellar as we learn about each character and the part they play in each other’s lives. All of that is important when it comes down to surviving the night.

SINNERS is a film requires patience as it unwraps. It is a combination of African American beliefs about music, bringing in Chinese culture, Native American culture (which really didn’t need to be there) and Irish folklore of their Abhartach or An Dearg Due. Using the background of the Jim crow south, there is a lot to take in on the screen. It is the cast that become the weavers of this complex story and it is stunning to watch them at work.

In the end – dance with the devil!

 

 

 

CAPTAIN AMERICA: Brave New World Lands on Streaming

 

Jeri Jacquin

Today on Digital including Amazon Prime, Apple TV and Fandango At Home and coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray, DVD from director Julius Onah and Marvel Studios comes the next chapter of CAPTAIN AMERICA: Brave New World.

It has been a few months since Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) has been elected President of the United States. His first order of business is to send Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) and Joaquin Torres (Danny Ramirez) to Mexico to stop classified information from being sold by Sidewinder (Giancarlo Esposito). They get the information but Sidewinder gets away. Torres is a young gun and Wilson tries to keep in in check as the Falcon-in-training as they don’t have the same powers as Steve Rogers.

To help Torres, Wilson takes him to Isaiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly), a former super soldier who doesn’t take any noise from Torres. Ross wants Wilson and Torres to come to the White House for a world-leaders gathering and wants Captain America to reform the Avengers. At the gathering, Ross talks about adamantium found on an island in the Indian Ocean. During his speech, music begins and chaos breaks out and those responsible are in a daze.

When Sidewinder is captured, it is discovered that Dr. Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson) has something to do with it all. There is more to it than Wilson and Torres could have ever imagined. Each step they take brings them closer and closer to the answers of who is responsible for all the mayhem. As Wilson feels as if he is not capable, Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) not only shows up for his friend, but help Captain America and the Falcon stop the one person who is truly responsible.

Mackie has taken the mantle of Captain America and it comes with a lot of insecurities. Wanting to be the man Steve Rogers saw when handing him the shield, he begins to question whether he is the right man for the job. While dealing with that, he is also worried about Torres and the young man’s bit of arrogance thinking he is ready for anything. Confronted with Ross’ request about the Avengers, it all comes with more questions than answers. Mackie is taking his new roll seriously wanting to show his characters insecurities and frailties in a human way and it works.

Ford as President Ross wants to keep the country strong and wants Wilson to bring back the Avengers to make that possible. Allowing Wilson and Torres to be a part of his plan is something both men understand – until everything has been turned outside

Ramirez as Torres is a hot shot of a kid who believes he is ready to be the new Falcon and jumps into the roll with little concern for the danger. That is where he and Wilson run into a bit of a problem. It is mostly on-the-job training as Torres and it could cost both super heroes in the end. Ramirez is charming and funny which works but he also begins to understand what it means to be the Falcon. Lumbly as Bradley is a man dealing with his own demons from the past as an imprisoned super soldier who has try to move on with his life. Being honored to attend the White House, someone is using that to bring Bradley back to a place he thought he’d never see again. Lumbly is a solid character and adds more back history to the story.

Shout out to Esposito as Sidewinder who, as always, plays a character that is cool as a cucumber, Tim Blake Nelson as Dr. Samuel Sterns and Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes.

Other cast include Shira Haas as Ruth Bat-Seraph, Xosha Roquemore as Leila Taylor, Liv Tyler as Betty Ross, Johannes Johannesson as Copperhead, William McCullough as Dennis Dunphy and Takehiro Hira as Ozaki.

Marvel Studios has released sixteen films since 2008 in what is known as the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Marvel is built on a library of over eight thousand characters featured in a variety of media content for over seventy years. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.marvel.com.

Bonus Features include Deleted Scenes: A Heartfelt Thanks, The Mission and Stick Around, Assuming the Mantle, Old Scores, New Scars, Gag Reel and Audio Commentary.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: Brave New World is an action-packed film but then again that’s how it goes with superheroes! Mackie steps up to the shield having spent his time as The Falcon and now makes his own mark. That also means letting Marvel pave the way slowly for his own story to unfold even if some don’t have the patience to wait for that. The story gives viewers a solid vibe and that means a ride, especially with the Red Hulk making his appearance.

There are so many changes and shake ups in the MCU, the film starts the year off followed by waves of upcoming films. This year alone there is THUNDERBOLTS, IRONHEART, THE FANTASTIC FOUR and more so CAPTAIN AMERICA: Brave New World offers up a new road that all fans are going to go down happily. Get the family together, pop the corn and put the shields up because now we can all watch it again and again!

In the end – the future favors the brave!

 

 

 

 

 

They are in the Middle of WARFARE

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from directors Alex Garland, Ray Mendoza and A24 is the startling film about a band of men who want to get back home during WARFARE.

A platoon of Navy SEALs is on a mission in Ramadi, Iraq to locate insurgents in November 2006. Leading the team is Erik (Will Poulter), with radioman Ray (D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai), Elliott (Cosmo Jarvis), Tommy (Kit Connor), Macdonald (Michael Gandolfini), Pete (Laurie Duncan), Sam (Joseph Quinn), and Frank (Taylor John Smith).

Taking over a house, the team spends hours watching their targets from across the road. Remaining as stationary as possible, they keep their eyes open as those they are watching are coming and going out of the building. Keeping in contact with their superiors, the soldiers notice that something is happening as the streets quickly clear and become empty. Immediately, things begin exploding and rapid fire hit the building the men are in.

Rallying, the men fight back hard while reaching for reinforcements. Until help arrives, the insurgents feel the power as military jets try to clear a path for the men to get clear. As the scene becomes chaotic, the men try to help one another with severe injuries while waiting for back up to arrive. Their bond for one another will be their strongest weapon against the enemy!

Poulter as Erik leads the men into their mission with a clear goal and understanding that each man is capable of their objective. This is such a strong role for Poulter and he handles it with precision and focus. Watching this actor come up through such diverse roles, he has definitely shown his worth as an actor in both comedy, action and now drama. Woon-A-Tai is equally as focused as Ray, a young man who keeps the positioning on track but has an even more difficult job ahead of him once things become more volatile. Ray becomes a focus put never pulls focus from the story being told.

Quinn as Sam gives a performance is sent shivers up my spine and emotions spiraling all over the place. His role is absolutely difficult to watch but necessary at the same time. Gandolfini, Jarvis, Connor, Duncan and Smith are part of the platoon trying to do their job and survive at the same time. They want to do their part and, at the same time, take care of their brothers. Their roles are so important to the story and make an impact that is powerful and meaningful. Each of these actors makes an indelible mark portraying their roles that captured my attention from start to finish.

Other cast include: Aaron Mackenzie as Kelly, Alex Brockdorff as Mikey, Evan Holtzman as Brock, Joe Macaulay as Mo, Laurie Duncan as Pete, Jake Lampert as Ted, Aaron Deakins as Bob, Henrique Zaga as Aaron, Noah Centineo as Brian and Adain Bradley as Sgt. Laerrus.

During the last U.S. premier showing of WARFARE at the Village Theatre in Coronado, California, the directors and cast were there to support the film in our military town and answer questions after the film.

Director Ray Mendoza talks what brought him into filmmaking and makes it clear that the viewers opinion matters, “What got me into this is the film ACTOR OF VALOR and it got me into this medium. Something I recognized right off the bat was the structure, working in concert to achieve an objective so I could relate to that. I like that team concept, it’s how I work and it is how I was raised. I found that it was a good outlet for me as I was transitioning at the time and it was very rough. A lot of things going on and it was rough and I had a lot of things going on so it really was rough. I had a hard time expressing what was going on and I didn’t have the vocabulary to do it. I hit rock bottom in a lot of ways and had a daughter I needed to be a father too; I had friends who helped me climb out of this whole and dig into this industry. I always try to approach it the way teams taught me with respect, tact and try to do it responsibly. So, I learned how to tell stories, not just military stories, doing humbling work. I needed to learn this new language and me wanting to tell this story, I knew I had to understand how to do this through storytelling and framing it.”

Director Alex Garland speaks on what caused him to search out Mendoza for a project they could do together, “Ray and I worked on CIVIL WAR. He was in a way a choreographer for gun fights and there was a particular sequence where the soldiers were fighting and watching Ray work with the performers. What was clear is that there were things in there that were not normally seen. As a civilian, I saw a rhythm to the gunfights and the explosion and recollecting and communicating with one another, it was fascinating. The sequence really interested me and I contacted Ray with a question and said, ‘what if we take 90 minutes or 100 minutes of real combat that had one task, to recreate it as accurately as we possibly can’. Ray said he had such a story and it was, for me, an exercise in listening. Civilians I think don’t listen enough. There is sort of a thing people believe that soldiers don’t talk about their experiences. I think they do under the right circumstances provided they are being heard! So, the actors had to listen to one another and it was humbling and fascinating.

Will Poulter says of his work on the film and the challenges, “Stating the obvious as actors, we were responsible of representing people. We were doing a very limited version of what, of course, the people in military learn over a much longer period of time. We were very lucky to get that opportunity and it served two key functions – the first, gave us enough of a skill set to put our best foot forward as far as representing the gentlemen we were responsible for and secondly, and equally important, is that it bonded us in kind of a measurable way. It surprised us all, what that meant is that when we got to set, we were responsible for executing various objectives entrusted to us by the director. It was in full naturally by genuine love, care and respect for each other. It was responding to protocol and falling back on the training we were lucky to get by Ray, who deserves a lot for his patience with us.”

WARFARE is an intense battle film that does not stop from start to finish. As the film begins there is already a sense of tension from the actors onscreen that trickles down into the audience quickly. The goal of the mission is clear as each moment passes in the telling from quiet radio transmission to non-verbal cues between the soldiers themselves. When the fighting begins, the senses are assaulted from the loud rapid fire and explosions to the intense reaction of the soldiers as they call for help and are wounded. The cast excel in their character portrayals and directors Garland and Mendoza have presented us with something truly well done.

With all of it, this is an important story that needs to be seen by the general public as a glimpse into war and what it does to those returning home long term. There is, of course, concern for those who may find the film triggering so I feel compelled to say so. For myself, it provided me with a deeper understanding of my own family’s history with war and its effects after. I agree with director Garland in that those who have experienced trauma need from us better listening and understanding skills. That is where the disconnect lies sometimes and it is something we all can change about ourselves for the sake of those who put their lives and bravery on the line.

In the end – the only way out is together!

IN THE LOST LANDS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to On Demand from director Paul W.S. Anderson and Vertical Entertainment based on a short story by George R.R. Martin is the tale IN THE LOST LANDS.

Grays Alys (Milla Jovovich) is a witch who is in the clutches of religious fanatic The Enforcer Ash (Arly Jover), who serves The Patriarch Johan (Fraser James). There is chaos in this land of destruction and chaos. Ruling this desolate kingdom is The Overlord and The Queen (Amara Okereke) but there is tension between The Overlord and The Patriarch. Ash is furious when Grays Alys manages to escape and is pushed to recapture her once again.

In her own stronghold, Grays Alys is visited by The Queen who wants to make a wish knowing the witch can not refuse. Wanting a power that lives in the Lost Lands, she pays Grays Alys for her services. Promptly, an unexpected twist occurs when The Queen’s man Jerais (Simon Loof) makes a wish of his own, that she not do as the Queen wishes. Knowing all of this is complicated, Grays Alys finds Boyce (Dave Bautista) in a local watering hole and hires him as a guide to The Lost Lands where the power resides.

There are only six days before the next full moon that is needed to grant The Queen’s wishes as Grays Alys and Boyce begin their journey. The Patriarch wants Ash to get the witch so that he can dethrone The Overlord and The Queen to take the power. Boyce knows of ways to get to The Lost Lands and looks to the help of friends. The problem is getting to them before The Enforcer Ash does because she is on a mission of total destruction.

Now the race is on to see who will reach The Lost Lands first!

Jovovich as Grays Alys is doing what she does best, creating a badass female character in a world that is filled with chaos and destruction. Embracing that part of her career has always worked well for her and in this film, she is proving once again that these characters are obviously fun to portray. She gets to use witchy actions, is good with weaponry and doesn’t take any guff from anyone – even her co-star. Speaking of Baustia, as Boyce he is a wanderer who doesn’t like to stay in one place to long. Hiring himself out to the witch for a trinket puts him back out wandering but this time with a goal – to get to The Lost Lands. He does warn Grays Alys against going but it goes unheeded.

Jover as The Enforcer is just as crazy as she wants to be. Following her religious fanaticism, she sees Grays Alys as an abomination and must be destroyed. To that end, she is going to chase her down no matter where she goes or what magic she attempts. Jover is pretty darn cool herself, even if she is a little off the rails. James as The Patriarch and the head of the twisted church, his only goal is to plant himself in the highest seat in their land, even if it means taking down an Overlord or two. Okereke as The Queen wants her cake and everyone elses’ too stopping at nothing to make sure nothing stands in her way. Okereke makes a grand Queen and she has a little bit of evil in her as well. Loof as Jerais is the Queen’s man to make things happen, and without a word knows exactly what she wants done!

Other cast include Tue Lunding as The Hammer, Jacek Dzisiewicz as The Overlord, Kamila Klamut as Midwife, Eveline Hall as Old Woman, Nicolas Stone as Kane, Sebastian Stankiewicz as Ross, and Deirdre Mullins as Mara.

Vertical Entertainment 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.

IN THE LOST LANDS is a dark story (but then again, I would expect nothing less from George R.R. Martin) that is steeped in magic, power struggles and everyone out for themselves. Grays Alys is a woman with powers that she wishes on no one but yet can’t refuse a wish, even if she wanted to. That is her weight to carry knowing that those who asks things of her are usually greed in nature.

The visuals are exactly what one would expect from a world gone chaotic with those who want to rule and those they abuse by ruling. The religious want the world their way with the hearts and minds in the same chains as the Overlords and the overlords want to get rid of the religious for the same reasons. It seems only Grays Alys and Boyce are the sane ones in their own crazy way. The cast does a really good job of creating characters that I wouldn’t mind seeing again. The film definitely kept my attention with its twists, turns and, honestly, I do love a good yarn!

In the end – it is a world full of secrets!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He Knows LOVE HURTS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from director Jonathan Eusebio and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the love action comedy that shows how LOVE HURTS.

Marvin Gable (Ke Huy Quan) loves his job being a real estate agent and has just been awarded Realtor of the Year! Explaining to his assistant Ashely (Lio Tipton) that it’s important to love what you do, he enters his office only to discover the assassin Raven (Mustafa Shakir) waiting. A questioning fight is ‘where is Rose’?  Just when Marvin thought he had started a new life, it has come back to literally kill him.

Rose is a girl Marvin actually likes but that’s not the whole story. It seems once upon a time; Marvin was an assassin for The Company run by his brother Alvin or “Knuckles” (Daniel Wuv). Rose (Ariana DeBose) sort of stole some money and Marvin was supposed to “take care” of Rose but love got in his way. Now that you are caught up, Rose grabs Marvin and explains what is happening and Ashley has fallen for poetry driven Raven who Marvin left lying flat out in his realtor’s office. Understand?

Oh, it gets crazier! Knuckles is upset because Marvin’s mentor Cliff (Sean Astin) refers to him as his brother and Rose wants the money she stole. To make her point, Rose kidnaps Knuckles accountant Kippy (Rhys Darby) to track down the money only to discover that Knuckles man Renny Merlo (Cam Gigandet) has his own game going. Of course you can add Otis (Andre Eriksen), King (Marshawn Lynch) and Jeff (Drew Scott) to the mix, who are they? Untangle it all for yourself!

Quan as Marvin is a man who has found a second life in real estate. Constantly on the go to get the job done, he is happy with his life choice, until Rose shows up. Wanting to do the right thing by her (well, he is in love), he is up against some of the craziest people who are out to either get money or get Marvin or get Rose or a little bit of everything actually. This is an interesting character to watch play out and it is also quite charming.

DeBose as Rose has her own agenda even if she has a few hearts for Marvin. Getting him involved has brought out a bunch of bad guys who are a little messed up in their emotions but hey – a hit man is a hit man right? Tipton as Ashley is a bit scattered but knows that real estate is not in her life’s plan. Especially when she meets a certain poet assassin who only has eyes at the moment for Gable.

Shakir as Raven is giving off big man creepy vibes but also has a heart for poetry. That doesn’t mean he won’t get the assassin thing done, he just gets sidetracked occasionally by Ashley and a good fight in a kitchen with oversized cutlery. Darby as Kippy has a lot to say for a man without a finger. Twin assassins from a different mother are Lynch who doesn’t hesitate to use his previous gridiron skills and Eriksen as Otis who has a soft side.

Gigandet as Renny is playing both sides of the game and keeping his hands fairly clean, but that could change as quickly as the car Marvin is driving. Wuy as Knuckles has everyone dancing to his tune but that doesn’t mean Rose or Marvin for that matter are going to let him get away with his plan to take out everyone.

Shout out to Astin as Cliff, now there is a reunion that took forty years fir Data and Mikey back together again!

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience 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.

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

Exclusive Bonus Features include Alternate Ending, Deleted and Extended Scenes The Ke as Gable, The Heart of LOVE HURTS and Stunts Hurt.

LOVE HURTS has a bit of everything from charming comedy, to slap stick antics, a bit of love, nutty assassins, sibling rivalry, martial arts and a few Russians. That’s a lot coming at the screen yet not only does it work but its fun (and a bit funny). No one said love wasn’t going to hurt a bit right? The cast play off one another and make it look easy and, most of all, fun.

Prepare yourself for a roller coaster ride of fun and a few surprises. This is the type of film that brings everybody to the sofa with a big bowl of popcorn, laugh, get in on the jokes and have a fantastic time all around. This Bluray offers so much more after the film is finished so take time to check that out as well.

In the end – love can save the day!

It is a Plan in HARBIN

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray from writer/director Woo Min-ho and Well Go USA is the thriller of Korean history when meeting in HARBIN.

It is 1909 in Korea as the country prepares for annexation to Japan. A group of comrades of war, including Woo Deo-sun (Park Jeong-min), Kim Sang-hyun (Jo Woo-jin) and Chi Jae-hyung (Yoo Jae-myung) decide that they cannot let this happen. Plans are being made to stop it by assassinating the Korean leader Hirobumi Ito (Lily Franky) in Harbin. Ahn Jung-guen (Hyun Bin) is leading his group of men but there is someone who wants him. Gen. Tatsuo Mori (Park Hoon) is tearing the group apart to find him. An incident happened during the war that has made Ahn Jung-guen the focus of Mori’s attention.

Ito makes it clear that he doesn’t fear those who want to attack him. Instead, a mole has been put in the group but Ahn Jung-guen’s men realize that something is amiss. None of this stops their mission but it does cause mistrust on everyone’s part. Each in the plot know their roles in the mission and each are aware of the dangers they face. Reaching out to Ms. Gong (Jeon Yeo-been), she helps the men get to their destination and briefs Ahn on the mission’s final stop in Harbin.

It is a game of cat and mouse with the prize of a country attempting to save itself!

Bin as Jung-guen is a quiet man with a conscious. In war he was against taking the lives of his prisoners and of them - was Mori. Much to the dismay of his brothers in arms, the character of Jung-guen is clear about his beliefs. Bin gives us a man who now must make right the belief in his country’s independence and never forgetting those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to make that happen.

Hoon as Mori has a moment on his knees that followed him after the war. His obsession with Ahn takes over every part of his life. He is devious in how to get close to him but the one thing he doesn’t count on is the determination of Ahn and those who want Korea’s freedom.  Jeong-min as Deo-sun as believes in what they are doing and follows Jung-guen cautiously. Woo-jin as Sang-hyun has his part to play in the plan and it can turn the plan even deadlier.

Other cast include Kim Ji-oh as Otani, Lee Tae-Hueong as Jo Do-Sun, Lee Kang as Ahn Se-ho, Yoon Yeo-won as Shin Jae-Sik, Tongha Pak as Yamada, Son In Young as Kim Seong-Baek, Lee Dong-wook as Lee Chang-seop, Ego Mikitas as Vladimir Kokovtsov and Jung Woo-sung as Park Jeom-chul.

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.

Bonus features include The Making of Harbin.

HARBIN is an intense film starting out with how each of the characters believe in their fight for Korea and how it follows them well beyond the battle field. Planning an assassination takes time and trust, that can be difficult when everything is surrounded by tensions of two countries and another putting in their two-cents. The feel of the film is gritty and cold which is exactly how I would see their world in 1909.

Director Woo Min-ho also wrote and directed such films as THE SPIES, INSIDE MEN and THE DRUG KING as well as THE MAN STANDING NEXT. The later film won an amazing number of awards from the 40th Korean Association of Film Critics’ Awards, 7th Korean Film Producers Association Awards, Cine 21 Awards in categories of Best Film, Best Director and Best Screenplay.

As a period piece, HARBIN is exactly what I enjoy keeping the story straight forward and not clouding it with a lot of things that it just doesn’t need. It is a story of men during a time of war and a country in crisis. Both of those bring the story together of a group of believers who only had one goal – to save their country. It may have taken 36 years to do it but the fighters kept the flame alive till it actually happened.

In the end – they band together so others can be remembered!

 

 

There is Fun with A MINECRAFT MOVIE

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Jared Hess and Warner Bros. is a story straight from every video game lovers dream with A MINECRAFT MOVIE.

Steve (Jack Black) is a kid who always wanted to get inside the mines, as he grew older, that dream didn’t change and as he finally gets his pickaxe to work, he discovers something amazing. An orb-cube that takes him into a different world where his imagination and creativity soars but takes him away from his own world. When things get crazy, Steve sends his faithful friend Dennis away with something that needs to stay hidden.  Back in that world, Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison (Jason Momoa) is having life struggles as well. Once hailed genius of game play, he is a grown man struggling with trying to pay the rent on his store.

Moving to the small town is Natalie (Emma Myers) and her brother Henry (Sebastian Hansen). After their mother passes, Natalie has taken it upon herself to take care of Henry and start a new job in the small town. The realtor Dawn (Danielle Brooks) offers up the keys to their new place and offers to help in any way she can. On the way to his first day of school, Henry sees Garrett’s shop and is intrigued and frustrated at the same time as the shop owner tries to play it cool. In school, Henry manages to cause a large ruckus.

Garrett saves the day a bit and back at the shop, Henry discovers a cube but sister Natalie and Dawn are on their trail. All of it leads back to a certain mineshaft and a portal that sucks them in! Meanwhile, Steve is dealing with Malgosha (voiced by Rachel House) who has been holding him captive until she gets the orb that will allow her to control all worlds. She wants the cub and the only way to get it is by letting Steve go retrieve it. He meets up with Henry, Natalie, Garrett and Dawn and now the race is on to see who will get the cube and it isn’t going to be easy!

Black as Steve gets to literally play in this film because he looks like he is having a good time. His character seems to be a mass of other characters that his has played and I don’t mind it at all because he is funny. A believer in dreams and creativity, he wants to save his friend Dennis and keep the cube away from Malgosha all while being able to show off everything he has created in the unusual world. This all can only be done by Jack Black!

Momoa as Garrett is everything that a gaming champ from back in the day would be. Full of himself, thinks he can speak Spanish, horrible fashion sense and stuck in a time warp of his past that plays over and over in his head. Yet, every little bit of that works in this character and hilariously so. Momoa also seems to be having a good time and even more so when he comes together with Blacks character. They play off one another with similar silliness and energy that is big and fun.

Meyers as Natalie just wants to be the responsible adult in raising her younger brother. It’s clear that she is struggling but once into the other realm, Natalie begins to feel a bit more powerful in what she can achieve. Brooks as Dawn is a strong, no-nonsense lady who has no problem whacking a zombie over the head while she waxes strongly poetic about life and advise for Natalie. She really is very funny and once again seems to be having a good time on the screen. House as the voice of Malgosha has an underground piggy filled world full of issues that she takes out on everyone but, you can’t have your bacon and eat it too.

Other cast include Jemaine Clement, Kate McKinnon and Jennifer Coolidge as Vice Principal Marlene.

Warner Brothers is home to one of the most successful collections of brands in the world and stands at the forefront of every aspect of the entertainment industry from feature film, television and home entertainments with worldwide distribution to DVD and Bluray, animation, comic books, videogames and broadcasting. This includes the upcoming film A MINECRAFT MOVIE! For more please visit www.warnerbros.com.

A MINECRAFT MOVIE is so much fun for so many reasons. First, it is so colorful and true to the characters in the game. Almost everything one would see in the game is on the big screen which is going to delight everyone. The audience was filled with kids, teens, moms, dads and just adults who wants to have a really good time at the movies and they were not disappointed. The story is silly, fast paced, very well animated, and full of humor for whatever your level of giggles might be.

There is not a moment of downtime and I absolutely loved that. My 10-year-old granddaughter laughed constantly through the movie and by the end of it proclaimed it was the best movie she has seen this year (yes, I realize it’s only March but she’s 10 and time is a whole other dimension when you are that age). I asked what she loved about it and every time she tried to explain a scene, her laughter would stop her from finishing. That is how I know that A MINCRAFT MOVIE is good – she wasn’t the only person laughing.

While walking out I was listening to everyone talking and they were repeating something they heard from the film and what their favorite scenes were. That made me laugh even more so, if director Hess’ wish was to make a fun and funny film for everyone, then I’d say he has managed beautifully. This is just a fantastic time at the movies for everyone and just know, we will be seeing it again!

In the end – be there and be square!

 

She is Taking Care of THE FRIEND

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from directors Scott McGehee, David Siegel and Bleecker Street is the story of a woman and a dog with THE FRIEND.

Iris (Naomi Watts) lives in a small New York apartment teaching writing courses and deciding on her own writing when she learns her friend Walter (Bill Murray) has died. Trying to come to terms with that and their history together, his wife Barbara (Noma Dumezweni) wants them to get together. Sharing her condolences with Barbara, Iris believes she is there to help put Walters papers together for a book. That couldn’t be further from it.

Barbara makes it clear that Walter wanted her to have Apollo, a very, very large Great Dane who he loved early. Iris balks at the idea making it clear that her apartment building doesn’t allow dogs but the choice is made clear that she either take the dog or else. Not liking the sound of else, Iris takes the very sad Apollo home to her small apartment. Immediately, the dog takes over and Iris is on the hunt for a new home for him with the building supervisor Hektor (Felix Solis) breathing down her neck. She does get chuckles from next door neighbor Marjorie (Ann Dowd).

Also wanting to get Walter’s book together is Val (Sarah Pidgeon) who turns to Iris when things get rough in her life. As the days go by with Iris, who has now been relegated to an air mattress with Apollo confiscating her bed, she finds herself weaving in and out of the world that was with Walter in it and the world she is in now. Trying to care for the saddest Great Dane on the planet, the biggest question is, “why did Walter leave me his dog?” and the answer comes with emotional breakthroughs for everyone.

Watts as Iris has the opportunity to portray a woman who is juggling a whole myriad of issues, then along comes the death of someone she cares for deeply. The shocking surprise that she is the new pal for big dog Apollo, her emotions are starting to come to the surface about so many things she has managed to bury. Watts portrays the character of a woman whose life starts to show the cracks in the walls she has put up and all of that with the help of a very large dog with his own set of big feelings. Watts and Apollo are stunning together.

Pidgeon as Val is Walter’s daughter who wants to help put together his memoirs but also has a bit of a messy life situation of her own. Feeling Iris is a safe space, these two women are quite lovely together. Dowd as Marjorie has her own soft spot for Apollo and sees the struggle her neighbor is going through. Solis as Hektor is an apartment super who lives by the rules and knows that Iris is under the watchful eye of the owner no matter how he personally feels.

Murray as Walter gives us the version that Iris sees of her friend. Their past relationship, his inconsistency with the women in his life, death and the world he left behind for Iris and, of course, Apollo. This isn’t a large role for Murray but it does not take away the footprint that is left. The scene between he and Watts as she comes to terms with her own sadness is absolutely stunning.

Other cast include Constance Wu as Tuesday, Owen Teague as Carter, Josh Pais as Jerry, Tom McCarthy as Dr. Warren, Bruce Norris as Dr. Novak, Gina Costigan as Jocelyn, Carla Gugino as Elaine and Bing as Apollo.

Bleecker Street is a New York City film company that has brought outstanding films to the public. Their library includes TRUMBO, DENIAL, THE LOST CITY OF Z, BEIRUT, HOTEL MUMBAI, ORDINARY LOVE and THE ROADS NOT TAKEN. For more information on the titles from Bleeker Street please visit www.bleeckerstreetmedia.com.

THE FRIEND is definitely a dog lovers’ film (have Kleenex), not only for the premise of Walters love, and deep friendship for a darn big dog, but what Apollo represents as a whole. Everyone that is part of Walters life have their own story to tell about the complexities of their relationship with him – Apollo is just a rather large bonus. Each person that is in Iris’ life has a different understanding of why they tolerated Walter’s human frailties and she begins to understand it, as much as she also fights it.

She wants her memories in tact without any interference because, as we all know, our own memories can sometimes be blind to the realities everyone else is aware of. Watts and Murray show us how, even with those frailties and realities, that loving someone can be the thing that gives us strength as a person – even if it is a big dog that silently points that out. The film is lovely, charming, funny, sad and eye opening at the same time.

By the end of the film we might all need a huge box of Kleenex, an even larger dog and serious therapy – and none of those things are all that bad thanks to THE FRIEND.

In the end – what about the dog?

 

 

 

 

Final Day of CinemaCon 2025 Brings Paramount and Disney

 

Jeri Jacquin

These past four days have completely flown by here at CinemaCon in Las Vegas. The studios have brought anticipated films and a few surprises with their upcoming slates. This morning begins with Paramount and later today Disney to wrap up this year’s conference. Let’s get started!

It doesn’t take but a hot minute to get things going starting off with motorcycle stunts on stage as the iconic (and often repeated in people’s minds when they are doing something stunt-y) Mission Impossible theme. Chris Aronson, Domestic distribution president for Paramount gets a chance to joke with the audience “on the heels of Sony releasing four Beatles movies, they’re gonna release four Paw Patrol films for each character”. No worries my grandson, he’s just being silly. CEO Brian Robbins talks of CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE being adapted for the screen saying the film is “a labor of love” and in regards to SCREAM 7, “Sidney Prescott is back with old suspects and fresh new victims” which is code for ut-ohhhhhh.

Edgar Wright’s film THE RUNNING MAN with the very handsome Glen Powell, Colman Domingo and Josh Brolin. On stage Wrights says “the media and the world have gone out of control. It’s worth mentioning that Stephen King’s original book was set in 2025.” Now if that doesn’t send King-like chills down one’s spine! In the film, Domingo’s character says, “This is American goddamnit, and we don’t put up with no bullsh*t!”, amen to that sir! From this film to the endless possibilities of THE LEGEND OF AANG: The Last Airbender is another project for Paramount.

SMURFS will be making their blue trail back to theatres this summer but made sure to nod at CinemaCon with Papa Smurf’s brother says, “You don’t see that at CinemaCon!”. However, I’m all googly-eyed as Mark Hamill and, of course, Tom Kenney hit the stage to talk about THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: Search for Squarepants. Okay, so I’m still 16 and see Luke watch the sunset at this moment, but I digress. Hamill takes the role as the voice of the Flying Dutchman saying, “I actually did an episode of SpongeBob in the fifth season, and I did such a great job they asked me back 18 years later – and if I do my job correctly, every child in America will hate my guts.” The one thing about Mark Hamill you can be sure of is you can never be sure what he will say next! Paramount has decided to reboot THE NAKED GUN with Liam Neeson and I’m actually all about it right now. The trailer is totally hilarious and I will be the first to buy a ticket, I mean come on – if Liam Neeson dressing like a school girl entering a bank with a lollipop doesn’t crack you up, then maybe you need to have your funny bone checked!

Distinguished Decade of Achievement in Film Honoree Channing Tatum previews his film ROOFMAN saying the project is special to him and is “an immensely entertaining ride and unbelievably hilarious”. Congratulations to Tatum for his award this year and the film looks fun and funny.

A big moment for everyone is Tom Cruise arriving to push MISSION: Impossible - The Final Reckoning but first, he grabbed my heart with this, “I’d like to take a moment before we move on. I’d like to honor my dear friend Val Kilmer. I really can’t tell you how much I admire his work, how much I thought of him as a human being, and how honored I was when he joined TOP GUN and returned for TOP GUN: Maverick.” He also talks about Brad Pitt and his film F1 and just being openly supportive of film in general. The trailing always gets me when Kittridge says, “Everything you are, everything you’d done, has gone to this” because it sounds so brutally cold in tone. The director for MISSION: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’s director Christopher McQuarrie received CinemaCon’s Director of the Year Award for this year speaking of his twenty-year relationship with Cruise saying, “Tom, it’s an honor to work with you and to place you in harm’s way for people’s entertainment.”

The final presentation on the last day is Disney and all it has to offer. Starting off with their reel that, if I’m not mistaken, includes a bit of TRON in a quick flash. The much anticipated live-action LILO & STITCH gives a look at the friendship that might make fans happy to know it feels like the animated story. That will come as a happy thing for some kids in my household who love Stitch more than our dog! On the stage, and nice to see, is Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis to show that time hasn’t changed them much and previewing their new film FREAKIER FRIDAY. Mother and daughter are living the grown-up life – enter Chad Michael Murray which will bring problems of its own. I was right, Jared Leto and Jeff Bridges returning as Flynn in the house to promote TRON: Ares. Leto plays Ares and says, “Ares is a highly advanced program who crosses over from the digital world to the real world on a mission”. Directed by Joachim Ronning, the look it there to bring audiences from as far back as 1982 when the original hit theatres.

PREDATOR: Badlands is next up with star Elle Fanning letting the audience know that “Something unprecedented happens in this movie…my character teams up with the predator!” Set in the Predator universe, Fanning takes up the mantle and we hear “I didn’t think you survived” and I’m here for whatever comes next. This next pairing is for the Springsteen biopic of DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE starring Jeremy Allen White and Jeremy Strong (having two Jeremy’s on the set ought to be fun!). The reel offers up a look at pieces of Springsteen’s childhood and into music. Jamie Lee Curtis is certainly centered in the Disney world and back on stage with Emma Mackey for the film ELLA MCCAY. Following a idealistic politician, she follows her mentor preparing to take over the job – as governor, while also dealing with home issues. The film also stars Woody Harrelson and Kumail Nanjiani directed by James L. Brook. The director also receives CinemaCon’s Cinema Verite Award and well deserved for movies like AS GOOD AS IT GETS and TERMS OF ENDEARMENT. When the perfect couple of Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Coleman become not-so-perfect, director Jay Roach gives us THE ROSES.

Marvel is up bringing out Hannah-John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Florence Pugh, Julia-Louis-Dreyfus and David Harbour for THUNDERBOLTS. The trailer shows Red Guardian and Bucky talking about what happened at the Soviet Union in a truck with Yelena, Walker and Ghost in the back. Cracking me up is when Fontaine refers to Red Guard as “old Santa”. The film opens up soon! They are not the only heroes (or anti-heroes depending) as Kevin Feige video messages from the set of AVENGERS: Doomsday. He says the entire cast of the film hasn’t totally been revealed but, does reveal that the Thunderbolts, Wakandans, Fantastic Four and original X-Men are going to take on Doctor Doom. That means a huge cast and full theatres everywhere. THE FANTASTIC FOUR: First Steps gets new footage with a shot of the Silver Surfer as well.

Pixar has the chance to show a bit of their new animated adventure ELIO. The boy Elio voiced by Yonas Kibreab, is taken by aliens and going to their community, he meets Glordon voiced by Remy Edgerly. The vocal cast also includes Zoe Saldana as Aunt Olga, Brad Garrett, Jameela Jamil and Shirley Henderson. It’s a story of friendship in outer space! Saldana says of the film, “it is a heartfelt, funny and beautiful story”. On pace is Ke Huy Quan voicing Gary in the new ZOOTOPIA 2 as Nick and Judy are back as partners having partner issues after only a week but their job is to find the snake.

Finally, James Cameron messages the audience with “I’m in New Zealand finishing up Avatar: Fire and Ash. I think we can agree that’s a good use of my time since this sucker’s coming at us like a freight train. I’m sending you a reel to give a taste of the spectacle – and the increased emotional heart and soul”. He is speaking about the next installment of AVATAR: Fire & Ash. Cameron’s next storyline shows the Na’vi, Wind Traders who have ships that float with the help of giant creatures. Jake and his family are together as Kiri still communes with Ewya but the Fire People tell her “Your goddess has no dominion here”.

That’s they way to end CinemaCon’s presentations for 2025. Later this evening is the CinemaCon Awards Ceremony and its has been another amazing CinemaCon and we want to thank everyone for making it possible to be here and bring all the exciting events to you. See you next year!

Day Three at CinemaCon Brings Dragons!

 

Jeri Jacquin

The third day of CinemaCon and a bit of weather doesn’t change what this amazing convention brings in its four days in Las Vegas. After breakfast, which is a fantastic time to catch up about what has been presented so far and what has interested each of us the most, it is time to move on to the days first presentation.

Angel Studios was founded in 2013 by Neal, Daniel, Jeffrey and Jordan Harmon who wanted then to create a studio that provides empowering films. Presenting their slate for the second year at CinemaCon, their philosophy is one of community and providing, what they call, a “viable family-friendly alternative to Hollywood”. The most recent success for Angel Studios is the television series The Chosen and the film Sound of Freedom. One of my favorites from the studio is the film SIGHT which is the true story of Dr. Ming Wang becoming a renowned eye surgeon. Coming to theatres next week is the animated THE KING OF KINGS. During their presentation they spoke about “the Angel Guild” which is a audience-driven entertainment landscape. They also announced that a Toronto International Film Festival choice of SKETCH with Tony Hale and D’Arcy Caden is under their umbrella and will hit theatres August 6^th.

The biopic TRUTH & TREASON is set for October and is a Holocaust story and the thriller ZERO A.D. directed by Alejandro Monteverde. The film has an impressive line up with heavy hitters with Deva Cassel, Gael Garcia Bernal, Ben Mendelsohn, Sam Worthington and Jim Caviezel. The latter actor has been known to be open about his faith and chooses that important part of his life over his career so Angel Studios is the place to be for Caviezel. Another actor who shares that his faith is a significant influence is Neal McDonough who has co-written the film THE LAST RODEO due in studios in May. Brandon Purdie, Executive Vice President and Head of Theatrical Distribution says of their presentation this morning, “At CinemaCon 2025, we unveiled the most ambitious and cinematic slate in Angel Studios’ history. There are no greater partners than the dedicated exhibitors who bring these stories to life on the big screen. We are all in on theatrical, bullish on the big screen, unwavering in our commitment to the theatrical window, and firm believers in the power of the shared moviegoing experience.” Their films have truly been successful as the box office shows.

Now it’s time to turn the lights down with the Universal and DreamWorks previewing of HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON. Prepare to return to the world of dragons and a friendship between a boy and a nightfury! Gerard Butler takes on the live-action character of Stoick the Vast.

Universal brings out their presentation reminding viewers of such offerings as BACK TO THE FUTURE, JURASSIC PARK, HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON, PSYCHO, JAWS DESPICABLE ME, CONCLAVE, OPPENHEIMER and WICKED. These films and so many more have left an iconic mark on the lives of movie-goers and brought film lines into our world like “we’re going to need a bigger boat!”. The dinosaur world isn’t done with us yet either as director Gareth Edwards offers up Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali to talk about JURASSIC WORLD REBIRTH. It seems Johansson has been biding her time to get into the franchise saying, “This time I went to Steven Spielberg directly and told him I’ll play any role, even if I was eaten in the first five minutes. It’s an incredible honor to be here with Jurassic and we want to put the scares back into Jurassic.” Let’s just say from what I’ve seen, a T-rex chasing people in a dingy, sounds like a fun watch to me. DreamWorks is taking one of their beloved shows on Netflix and turning it into something on a larger scale with GABBY’S DOLLHOUSE and I personally know a few kids who are going to be thrilled about that. Universal is also taking a swing at a HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON sequel coming to theatres in 2027 so look for that. Tyriq Withers plays a football player with a head injury in HIM and there is going to be some more bustin’ and bruising coming to theatres when Bob Odenkirk returns in NOBODY 2.

Focus Features brings a slate of their own and one in particular is going to be a heartache for me but let’s get to that in a moment. First, Wes Anderson brings a cast that includes Benicio Del Toro, Michael Cera, Bryan Cranston, Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, Benedict Cumberbatch and the one and only Tom Hanks to star in THE PHOENCIAN SCHEME. Another director that likes the unusual is Yorgos Lanthimos and his next film BUGONIA with Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Alicia Silverton and more. Now, for my heartache, Focus Features comes to the screen one more time with DOWNTON ABBEY: The Grand Finale with a screenplay by Julian Fellowes and Carson telling everyone “Welcome to 1930”. Downton fans knew that one day this would come and I personally have watched the series over and over again along with the previous films but Kleenex is going to have to be included in the ticket price for sure. The cast we have come to love from both upstairs and down will be back for a final bow. Oh gosh, the tears just creeped in a little.

Blumhouse makes sure they are getting their turn at the frights with a trailer for FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY’S 2 as Jason Blum takes us all back at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza and I’m already creeped out and that’s the point. Another of my family’s favorite films has a sequel as THE BLACK PHONE 2 is purported by Blum to be scarier than the first one a telephone ring and “Hello Finney, did you think our story was over?’ gave me chills. Ticket please! Want more frights? Well, M3Gan 2 brings a different look but same jaw drops and SOULMSTE is a little more adult but same crazy technology. Universal’s president Jim Orr teases of an upcoming Steven Spielberg film with “a return to form in the spirit of his monumental classics, with a propulsive, out of this world twist” which could basically be said of most of his films. Untitled for now, we will have to keep our eye on this one. Finally, producer Mark Platt and director Jon M. Chu get to talk about WICKED: For Good. For fans who are waiting for the second installment, Chu says, “Our second film deals with the consequences of the decisions made. This film brings us past the point where Dorothy drops in.”  Because, in the words of Elphaba, “this is between the wizard and I”.

The final presentation of the evening begins with Head of Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, Mike Hopkins. His first time at CinemaCon, Hopkins recalls seeing STAR WARS as a kid with his brother (something I can totally relate to with the hundreds of times I have seen the film since I was 16). He announces that the studio plans to offer up fifteen films a year by 2027 with 12-14 starting next year. He says, “It is still early days for us, and we have a ton of work to do but we are committed to epic, culturally, relative storytelling that needs to be seen on giant screens like the one behind me.” Later next year, Ryan Goslings film PROJECT HAIL MARY get a sneak peek. Gosling says of the film, “it’s an insanely ambitious story, massive in scope and so big we tried to put it on television once, it wouldn’t fit.”  That’s what happens when you make a film about space and a guy trying to save the world.

AFTER THE HUNT brings director Luca Guadagino (BONES AND ALL), and cast Andrew Garfield and Ayo Edebiri to talk about the thriller that also stars Julia Roberts as a college professor and situation that leads to secrets. Also shown is Michael Showalter’s VERITY and the remake of THE THOMAS CROWN AFFAIR with Michael B. Jordan. As a detective accused of a crime, Chris Pratt is seen in the footage for the film MERCY coming next January. A month after that is Hugh Jackman and Emma Thompson’s film THREE BAGS FULL: A Sheep Detective Movie. Two of my favorite actors together so I’ll be seeing it.

Another sneak peek is for the film CRIME 101 with Halle Berry and Chris Hemsworth. Directed by Bart Layton, he says, “from the very beginning, this movie was written, imagined, planned and dreamed for the big screen.”  Making her directorial debut, Aleshea Harris brings her own work to the screen with IS GOD IS with Vivica A. Fox, Kara Young and Mallori Johnson. Bassam Tariq brings YOUR MOTHER YOUR MOTHER with Mahershala Ali who has a message for the audience. Oh goodness my grown boys are going to get the first tickets in theatres to see MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE!  Directed by Travis Knight and will be ready for fans next June, he says, “We’re not making a cartoon here!”.

Ben Affleck’s film THE ACCOUNTANT 2 bring he, Jon Bernthal, Daniella Pineda, Cynthia Addai-Robinson and director Gavin O’Connor to the stage and a look at what’s coming to theatres. Reflecting on his character, Affleck says, “It does feel great to continue the story of THE ACCOUNTANT. I’m thrilled to be playing this part again with this great cast. In some ways, I feel like this character never left me.

That’s the last for day three of CinemaCon with the last day tomorrow bringing all the fun to an end. Paramount and Disney are the last studios to bring their slates and then celebrate with awards at the end of the evening. See you then!