GOOD BOY Sees What He Cannot

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Ben Leonberg and Shudder is the story of something in the dark from a dog’s point of view because he is a GOOD BOY.

Todd (Shane Jensen) has found a friend in pup Indy and the two are inseparable. Deciding to head to his grandfather’s cabin deep in the woods, it is a getaway from home for them both. Almost immediately, Indy sense something is not right and is hesitant. Noises and shadows are keeping the canine on high alert in the night.

Daylight brings a welcome relief and a morning walk through the woods together. Exploring the family cemetery, Todd runs into the neighbor and they both remember his grandfather. Indy stands patiently but is still uncomfortable. As another night filled with creaking and sounds arrives, it also brings a fitful sleep for Indy. When Todd leaves him alone in the house, Indy refuses to move from the window.

Another rainy night and Indy is seeing and experiencing what has been making him uneasy since the very first night. What is moving all around them is clearly paranormal but Todd does not see it. Vera (Arielle Friedman), Todd’s sister, is constantly calling him feeling that something is happening not realizing it is only adding to his frustrations. The thing that lives in the house only Indy can see but how can he communicate it before everything falls apart.

Jensen as Todd is a young man who needs to get away from it all. Going to his grandfather’s house, it is a chance to take a breath but also holds strange memories for him. As the days begin to pass, it is clear something is wrong with Todd. Is it real or is it whatever seems to be taking over the house have plans of its own. Not seeing Jensen’s face, he relies on physical actions to tell his part of the story and it is so awesomely done. His body language has a story of its own to tell and Jensen pulls it off.

The voice of sister Vera, Friedman is clearly concerned with her brother and doesn’t understand his need to be at a house buried deep in the woods. Her voice tries to be sisterly in concern but tends to come off overtly motherly but then again, I’d sound that way as well.

Let us talk about the four-legged star INDY – a dog who sees everything past and present. He is on high alert the moment they pull up to the gate and seems almost ready for anything. That being said, what he sees is frightening. The line between what is real and what is dream is criss-crossed as this canine is nothing short of amazing. I followed everything he looked at, his expressive eyes, the whines as if to say ‘listen to me!’ and the protective nature against the blackness in the night. Admittedly, I cheered for Indy the whole time!

Other cast include Larry Fessenden as Grandpa, Stuart Rudin as Richard, Hunter Goetz as the Weatherman, Anya Krawcheck as the Doctor and Bandit as Max.

Shudder is an American over-the-top subscription video on demand service featuring horror, thriller, and supernatural fiction titles, owned and operated by AMC Networks. The streaming service offers original films, TV series—such as Creepshow, based on the 1982 film—and documentary series. Shudder's library also features non-original programming, including well-known horror films. For more information, please visit www.shudder.com.

GOOD BOY is exactly the kind of ‘horror’ film I love. Instead of trying to get frights from blood and gore, this film takes us to the dark places many people are scared to admit they hate. The shadows, the unexplained noises, the creaking doors and floors and – the ultimate fright – a dark, dank basement. Let me tell you, my grandparents had a basement like that and you could not get me down those stairs if you offered me all the treats in the world. Nope, not happening!

Making a horror film that is shown through the eyes of a dog is absolutely brilliant! Focusing on what he experiences and keeping the human faces mainly obscured, I found myself clutching the side of my chair at times. Keeping the story in one location allows the frights to build slowly wondering what is around every corner and in every room. What is in the darkness is so subtlety done that when confronted, silence is better than a scream.

This is director Leonberg’s directorial debut and he should be extremely proud of what he has done. The originality is something I have craved in all genres of film so when it is right in front of me, I’ll make it loud from the rooftops that everyone sees it for themselves. Take someone with you because having that arm to grab next to you is everything. Once the film is over you will once again remember why Indy would be called the ultimate ‘man’s best friend’.

In the end – trust his instincts!

Good Boy will be in UK Cinemas from 10th October

 

 

 HIGHLY COMMENDED - 'Agency of the Year' - BASE Awards 2024

 

They Are Part of ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Matt Sohn and Electric Entertainment comes a relatable story about family and what that really is when trying to be ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY.

Actress Rachel (Lisa Brenner) is celebrating her 40^th birthday and planning daughter Sammie’s (Lumi Pollack) bat mitzvah. It doesn’t help that young daughter Amanda (Dylan Chance) and husband Marcus (Dante Basco) are the eternal optimist pep squad! While hanging out with bestie Gerry (Sabrina Cofield), she asks Rachel if has taken a look at the DNA test they took together. That being said almost immediately the results are in and Rachel’s Jewish heart doesn’t believe what she’s seeing. Apparently, she has a grandfather the same age as she is left with the only choice - to call mom Lenore (Linda Lavin) to ask what she knows but instead gets the Jewish mom response which is frustrating. 

Deciding to talk with sister Sara (Kat Cunning), the happy go lucky musician, Rachel is thrilled that she is going to take the test as well. The only other option is to talk to “grandpa” Bobby (Josh Fadem) to see what he knows about it all even though Rachel isn’t as thrilled as Bobby seems to be. All of this is just adding fuel to Rachel’s in-the-red stress level but no time to deal with it because she has to pick up mom from the airport. The ride takes a turn when Lenore admits a family secret to Rachel and the tailspin begins.

Now, Rachel and Lenore decide to follow the road into the past to discover what it truly means to be a family.

Brenner as Rachel is a over-reactive, neurotic, self-absorbed woman in the middle of a Jewish crisis. Believing that she now has no identity, it is emotional mayhem every step she takes. Wishing she could be more carefree like Sara or even as clever as mom Lenore, she feels that her life is one big lie. Brenner rides the rollercoaster of madness and it is a reminder that families are complicated. Lavin as mom Lenore is absolutely hilarious as she explains things with a what’s-the-problem? attitude and brushes things off with ease. I absolutely love her line delivery while be able to give goo-goo eyes at the same time. Lavin continued to be a star in her own right with her passing in 2024. Her comedic timing can be seen in the 1976 series ALICE which ran for nine seasons and still remains one of my favorite television shows.

Basco as Marcus is Rachel’s husband and a doctor who has all the optimism in the world for just about everything. If Basco seems familiar, well hope into your time machine and hit 1991 and you will see him as the young and slightly arrogant Rufio in the film HOOK with Robin Williams. As Marcus, he is a supportive husband and loving dad who tries to keep Rachel’s meltdowns to a minimum. Fadem as Bobby is a man who is thrilled at the idea of having a sister, even if she’s a little hard to handle. Fadem is such a calm, laid back dude who goes along to get along.

Cunningham as Sara is a mixture of Lenore and Rachel with the attitude of a hippie but the reaction of a crazed little sister. She adds the cherry on the frosted chaotic babka! Chance as Amanda is absolutely charming as is Pollack as Sammie. Both are seeing the adults act a little crazy yet they stay cute and cut ups. Cofield as Gerry is the one responsible for starting all the madness but is a supportive friend adding another layer of charm.

Other cast include Lydia Carter as young Rachel, Mark Parker as Jacob, Vincent Vargas as Javi, Kassandra Mahea as Denise, Charla Bocchicchio as Rabbi Josephine, Dave Martinez as Pablo, Keri Jackson as Quiet Jimmy, Sean Dillingham as Douglas Franklin and Tim Russ as Lawrence.

Electric Entertainment develops and produces full-length feature films which have included BAD SAMARITAN starring David Tennant and Robert Sheehan, the award-winning film SAY MY NAME starring Lisa Brenner and Nick Blood as well as the critically acclaimed documentary WHO KILLED THE ELECTRIC CAR? Most recently, Sumalee Montano and Emma Fischer star in THE DEAL. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.electricentertainment.com.

ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY is actually a film I was looking forward to seeing. I’ve spent the past few years doing my own family tree after DNA test and trust me when I say it has been one jaw drop after another. I totally understood Rachel’s reaction and even understood her neurosis although once I got past a few generations, it becomes more like history than my own history. This film gave me reason to laugh understanding that families are more complicated with technology as secrets come to the surface.

The cast is an amazing mixture of personalities and reactionaries that are so different yet fit right in with each other. The film is fun, funny, heartwarming and a bit crazy in all the right ways. It feels as if director Sohn let the story flow effortlessly but that isn’t surprising as has worked on such fun shows as The Office, Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, all of which are hilarious. ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY was the Official Selection at the Miami Jewish Film Festival, Phoenix Film Festival, Rehoboth Beach Jewish Film Festival and the Albuquerque Jewish Film Festival.

So gather together and discover the twists and turns of Rachel’s family which will make you appreciate the craziness of your own.

In the end – every family has their secrets!

 

 

Welcome Home FANTASTIC FOUR: First Steps

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and DVD from director Matt Shakman and Marvel Studios based on the Stan Lee and Jack Kirby comic is the FANTASTIC 4: First Steps.

It has been a few years since Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), and Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn) went into space and came back with superpowers. Now Sue is expecting a child and Reed worries what that means as far as having powers. That celebration comes to a halt when a Silver Surfer (Julia Garner) arrives on Earth and announces its pending destruction by a being called Galactus (Ralph Ineson).

Immediately, the Fantastic 4 suit up and fly through space to meet Galactus face to face but instead hear the conditions for leaving Earth alone. Reed makes it clear that Galactus will not get what he wants as the team races back to their own planet. The press meet the returning ship and learn what Galactus wants. Reed immediately begins to search for mathematical answers while Johnny takes it upon himself to try and understand the language of the Silver Surfer.

Coming up with a plan, their only option is to give Galactus what he wants but Reed, Sue, Ben and Johnny aren’t going to exactly make it easy for a being trying to ruin their world. Trusting the Fantastic 4 to save them, the world believes in their heroes!

Pascal as Richards, aka Mr. Fantastic, is a man that thinks everything through mathematically and invents what he needs to not only take care of Sue but get his house in order. Pascal play his character with a stern seriousness but with one goal – to save his family. Watching Pascal hold a baby is probably going to cause women to lose their minds too but that’s a bonus. 

Kirby as Storm, aka Invisible Woman, is a woman surrounded by men and making it clear that she is just as vital as they are. Once they hear the demand of Galactus, Kirby’s Storm makes it clear that no alien is going to destroy what they’ve worked so hard for, family and protecting the planet. She gives her character strength and determination to use her superpowers for both.

Moss-Bachrach as Grimm, aka The Thing, is the one most changed in appearance by their first trip into space. His appearance is difficult for him to deal with, especially when someone has caught his eye. Grimm is so kind and sensitive but don’t take that for granted because when the world needs his strength, he handles whatever is in the way. Moss-Bachrach plays the character of Ritchie on the hit Hulu series The Bear so I was thrilled to learn he took on the role of Grimm.

Quinn as Storm, aka Human Torch, gets the chance to once again play a misunderstood character but he does it so well. Proving he is more than Storm’s brother and Richards relative, Quinn gives his character the behavior of a lover boy but there truly is more to him. The upcoming season of the Netflix hit Stranger Things proves that he is an actor that can handle such diverse roles and makes them his own.   

Garner as the Silver Surfer is the one who announces the destruction of Earth. The agent of destruction for Galactus, Garner gets the chance to play a character that has her own story to tell. Ineson as Galactus lends his voice to give the right amount of alien destructor   

Other cast include Sarah Niles as Lynne Nichols, Mark Gatiss as Ted Gilbert, and Natasha Lyonne as Rachel. Shout out to Paul Walter Hauser as Harvey Elder aka Mole Man for his humor and presence, I just loved it so much.

Bonus Features include Deleted Scenes, Gag Reel, Featurettes: Meet the First Family, Fantastic Furturism, From Beyond and Below and Audio Commentary: Watch the film with audio commentary by director Matt Shakman and production designer Kasra Farahani.  

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.

THE FANTASTIC 4: First Steps at home is going to make Marvel fans so thrilled. The film itself is done with a comic book feel from the suits of the four and the couture of the population. That also includes the futuristic look of the spaceships and the alien nature of Galactus. I love the look of the Richards home as it reminded me of the 60s shows I watched when I was younger. The mash of all of this is, well, fantastic.

From the first scene to the last, there is action and intensity even if there are a few clunky moments. The MCU needed this film and giving it the sci-fi feel along with a remarkable cast means that these superheroes in blue and white are pretty darn good all around. The literal ‘first steps’ have been taken and we all know where they lead – to AVENGERS: Doomsday and that is going to be a blockbuster!

In the end – they will save the world as a family!

The Hills are Alive with THE SOUND OF MUSIC

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on 4K Ultra HD, Digital and Bluray available for the first time ever worldwide from 20^th Century, Disney and director Robert Wise is the beloved Rogers & Hammerstein musical THE SOUND OF MUSIC.

It is 1938 Austria and Maria (Julie Andrews) is a young girl studying to be a nun at the Nonnberg Abbey. The problem is that all the nuns see the young girl as somewhat of a free spirit that might not exactly fit in at the Abbey. The Mother Abbess (Peggy Wood) makes the decision to let Maria go outside the convent to see if there might be a place in the outside world that can keep up with her. Captain Georg von Trapp (Christopher Plummer) is a retired naval officer and widower with seven children needing a governess. Maria arrives to discover that the captain has been basically been running his house like the military.

Liesl (Charmian Carr), Fredrich (Nicholas Hammond), Louisa (Heather Menzies), Kurt (Duane Chase), Brigitta (Angela Cartwright), Marta (Debbie Turner) and Gretl (Kym Karath) have been scaring away governesses but they discover quite quickly that Maria doesn’t frighten so easily. While the captain is away in Vienna, Maria wins over the children as they spend time around Salzburg and bringing music back into their lives. When the captain returns, he brings the Baroness Elsa Schraeder (Eleanor Parker) and family friend Max Detweiler (Richard Haydn) as well. Almost immediately, he is upset that his children are running around in play clothes and takes it out on Maria. When he hears his children singing, he becomes emotional.

The Baroness decides they should throw a formal ball inviting all around and isn’t happy when she sees the captain and Maria dancing together. Maria decides to return to the Abbey but it is the Mother Abbess who makes it clear that the young girl must decide for herself where her heart lies. Following that advise, Maria returns to the von Trapp household but that is the farthest problem for the family. The captain has been commissioned by the Third Reich to be a part of the Kriegsmarine. Determined to never follow the Nazis, the family must make the most daring decision of their lives!

Andrews are Maria is nothing short of brilliant in this role. Her charm, beauty, simplicity and voice bring such enjoyment to the film. As a young woman who knows so little of the world around her, finding herself at the von Trapps doorstep allowed her character to just, well, be herself in a way the children needed. The relationship with their father was equally as simple and lovely. There is no one on the planet who can find anything wrong with this portrayal and, if they tried, we might have words. Sharing the film with my granddaughter, she told me that is was one of the “coolest musicals” she had seen in a long while.

Plummer as Captain von Trapp begins with a military attitude to cover up the pain of being a widow. As anyone who comes from a military family back in the day can tell you, when dad tells you to jump – you ask, ‘how high?’. That being said, I always adored Plummer growing up and the diverse characters he played in films. In this film it is a pleasure to watch his character come alive because of a simple governess who loved life. Haydn as Detweiler wants his friend to be happy but also wants his children to be a part of the city’s festival. When the captain gives the thumbs down, it is Max who finds a way to turn that all around and it’s a good thing he did!

Parker as the Baroness is clearly on a mission to marry and she has her sights set on the captain. Playing this bit of a viper looks good on Parker and reminded me very much of one other actress that was good at it – Anne Baxter. Carr is so charming as Liesl, a very young girl who hasn’t quite outgrown needing a mother but wants to do what’s right in being a young adult. Hammond, Menzies, Turner and Chase are the middle children who are so full of life like Maria and just needed someone to navigate it in the right way for them. Cartwright is a familiar face as many might remember the television series Lost In Space. The cutie patootie of the film is Karath as Gretl with her charming smile and often saucy disposition.

Other cast include Anna Lee as Sister Margaretta, Portia Nelson as Sister Berthe, Doris Lloyd as Baroness Ebberfeld, Norma Varden as Frau Schmidt, Gil Stuart as Franz, Marni Nixon as Sister Sophia, Daniel Truhitte as Rolf, Evadne Baker as Sister Bernice and Ben Wright as Herr Zeller.

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 Features include on Disc 1 and 2 are 4K UHD THE SOUND OF MUSIC + Bonus Features- Sing-Along Version, Commentary by Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Charmain Carr, Dee Dee Wood and Johannes von Trapp, and Commentary by Robert Wise. Disc 3 includes the Bonus Features The Sound of a City Documentary – Julie Andrews returns to Salzburg, Austria, A City of Song – Filming locations in Salzburg, Austria, Music Stages – The songs, the show & the family, Vintage Programs – THE SOUND OF MUSIC Rodgers and Hammerstein, location interviews and audio interviews, Rare Treasures – Julie and Carol at Carnegie Hall: The Pratt Family Singers, The Julie Andrews Hour: Julie Andrews and Maria Von Trapp, Screen Tests, 40^th Anniversary DVD Introduction by Julie Andrews and galleries, and Publicity – Fox Movietone News – Academy Awards, trailers and teasers, TV spots and radio spots.

It is not surprising that awards rained down on the film including from the Writers Guild of America, New York Film Critics Circle, National Film Preservation Board, National Board of Review, Laurel Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Directors Guild of America, David di Donatello Awards, British Academy Film Awards, American Cinema Editor Awards and, of course, five Academy Awards. The film has been restored by an award-winning film restoration team and transferred to 4K in stunning color. Recently making its way around the globe with theatrical screenings, live concert events and fan experiences, it is now time to enjoy THE SOUND OF MUSIC at home.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC was a staple that my family would go to see in the theatre when it played. It was my mother that brought me up on musicals and Julie Andrews was one of her most beloved favorite actresses. This film brings such charm, love, and innocence set in the backdrop of war time Austria. The captain was a man who refused to follow the Nazi ideology and made it clear that nothing would change that even though it put people at risk. Maria was a woman who would never have settled for the children in her care to live in that way. Andrews and Plummer played those roles so well that it was an ending the film deserved. It is also based on the real story of the von Trapp family. The story of this family is not only one of struggle and survival, but one of dedication and a closeness that bring the film even more value.

Gather your own family together and discover a musical that will be one that is remembered for years to come. Everyone who sees it today will understand how THE SOUND OF MUSIC has come to be one of the most cherished and beloved films of all time.

In the end – it is radiance that floods the screen and warms the heart!

 

 

 

STRANGE JOURNEY: The Story of Rocky Horror

 

Jeri Jacquin

The legacy comes to screens from director Linus O’Brien and Kaleidoscope Entertainment comes the story behind the story of STRANGE JOURNEY: The Story of Rocky Horror.

Linus O’Brien takes us on a journey of Richard O’Brien and I’d like, if I may (if you know you know), to talk about the life that let to the iconic ROCKY HORROR SHOW. Trixie Maxwell remembers, as many of us do, the first time he saw the film and the effect it had on his life. But let us start from the beginning, shall we?

It is 1964 and Richard O’Brien was living in New Zealand making his way to England. His jobs during those days were simple and at night was attending acting classes. Chrissie Shrimpton met O’Brien in those classes. He also met wife Kimi Wong and they had two children. O’Brien also found roles including in Jesus Christ Superstar. When that job ended, he was making the decision to return to New Zealand or keep pushing toward his acting career. That brought about sitting down to write THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW for the stage.

Jim Sharman and Richard Hartley heard a few of the songs from O’Brien and signed on. Nell Campbell as Columbia reflects on the musical and the process of putting it on the stage. Tim Curry read the script and knew how he was going to play it quickly. Patricia Quinn laughs about how she wanted to sing the songs but not necessarily play Magenta. Little could have of them know that they would take a slow skyrocket ride into the status of icon.

Opening night was a huge success and the word spread quickly as the show played for three weeks. The audience immediately fell in love with the character of Frank n’ Furter and Curry understood the power that came along with that. O’Briens openness in writing a show that was sexual in nature, he believes, came because of the close-off life he had in his younger years. It wouldn’t be until later in life that he felt it was time to be who he was.

Now, Lou Adler and the Roxy want to be a part of the Rocky phenomenon. A change in cast wouldn’t happen because Adler knew Curry and O’Brien were their characters. Adler wants to make a movie and, with the exception of Curry, O’Brien, Campell and Quinn, recast Susan Sarandon as Janet, Barry Bostwick as Brad, and Meatloaf as Eddie. Sarandon and Bostwick tell of their experience and how they got their roles which is a great story.

Oakley Court and Bray Studios became the places where the film would be shot. From the Time Warp scene to Meatloaf’s entrance that Curry called “marvelous”, it also had an impact on actor Jack Black. Of course, we can not forget Rocky himself, Peter Hinwood, as Janet takes her character of a demure boyfriend pleaser and flips the switch. Accepting her sexuality and freedom, it is Hinwood’s Rocky who becomes the conduit for the release.

The song “I’m Going Home”, Curry talks about Frank n’ Furters vulnerability, Bostwick says Curry, “sand the hell” out of the song and Jack Black says, “he wants a few more magical moments” and we can all relate to that to this very day.

Released in September of 1975, the film had a short run. Tim Deegum of 20^th Century wondered what to do in Santa Barbara. So, like anyone looking for success, they went looking for the right audience. The film began to run as a midnight showing in theatres and word of mouth about the film brought audiences in!  Like-minded people who came together to have a good time! By 1978, midnight shows are sold out, so there are 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. shows that are equally sold out. Soon, the shout-outs begin, the costumes, props, and the shadow casts sharing the stage. Spreading like wildfire and a fan club shows what is happening. O’Brien says the first time he experienced all of this that it’s, “live theatre and a live audience come together and it was quite remarkable to see.”

The film brings together those who couldn’t seem to find their place. It was, and continues for me at least, to be a safe space of fun and adventure. Creating this community that belonged to one another no matter who you were/are, what your preferences may be don’t, in the greatness of it all, matter in the slightest.

Sharing their experiences are also Michael White, Sue Blane, Austin Fresh, Richard Hartley, John Goldstone, Lillias Piro and Belinda Sinclair.

Kaleidoscope Entertainment is a global independent all-rights entertainment with theatrical, digital and physical distribution with over 2,000 features. New titles include the magical family animation A TOOTH FAIRY TALE, BORLEY RECTOR: The Awakening, THE MAN IN THE WHITE VAN and the martial arts epic PRISONER OF WAR. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.kaleidoscopehomeentertainment.com

Linus O’Brien, son of Riff-Raff himself Richard O’Brien, says of the film, “I’m grateful to all those who participated, as well as the incredible crews who worked on the film, and I’m honored to have been entrusted with telling this story. We hope the audience enjoys this joyful and life-affirming celebration of a remarkable cultural touchstone – filled with amazing music, campy madness, tears, and laughter…To top it off, my own father, Richard O’Brien, was the one who created Rocky, playing a part in so many people’s lives. I knew this story needed to be told – and that it had never been explored in depth as a documentary feature.”

I was one of the first people in San Diego to see the film when it came to town in the 70’s. My sister and I ended up spending weekend after weekend to stand in line (gawd forbid it was sold out before we got there) waiting to get in. While waiting, we joked, laughed, told stories and had so much fun and could not imagine being anywhere else. Our dad asked us what we could possible see in spending so much time on one film so, we did what any good daughters would do – we took him with us. He had the best time and never asked again what we were doing on Friday and Saturday nights and often threw us a $20 to get eats after at the diner next door to the theatre.

We sang, threw rice, sang some more, held newspaper over our heads, yelled at Brad, did the Time Warp, sang some more, and hated when “I’m Going Home” was on the screen because it meant the film was almost over. What wasn’t over was the thrill of it all, the togetherness, the joy and the community that allowed all of us in the theatre to be whoever we wanted to be. Every person in this documentary expresses exactly how my family felt the first time we saw the film. Not only was this an opportunity to go down memory lane, but also hear the stories from the literal creator Richard O’Brien, the cast and those who have a history. 

On a personal note, thank you Mr. O’Brien for what you did and for who you brought along for this incredible ride. As a grandmother now, I can tell you that my kids and grandkids know of my admiration and love for THE ROCK HORROR PICTURE SHOW. Every time I watch the film, I am reminded of a time that always, always brings smile to my face and a certain song to my heart. As I write this, the words that sing out of me with a smile are, “…to the late night, double feature, picture show!”.                         

In the end – we are all freaks!

 

The Life of ELEANOR THE GREAT

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Scarlett Johansson and Sony Picture Classics is a tale of friendship and stories with ELEANOR THE GREAT.

Eleanor (June Squibb) and roommate/bestie Bessie (Rita Zohar) have a daily routine with one another. From morning coffee to long walks, their friendship has spanned decades, and so have their stories. When their time comes to a close, Eleanor finds herself moving to New York with daughter Lisa (Jessica Hecht) and grandson Max (Will Price). Lisa has decided its time for Mom to check out places where she can make friends and Eleanor isn’t too thrilled about that.

She does give in and wanders into the community center and a group gathered together to share. They are also introduced to Nina (Erin Kellyman) who is writing an article about survivors of the Holocaust and Eleanor realizes she has stumbled into the wrong group. As they talk, she can’t help but tell a story as if she were Bessie about her time in a concentration camp. Captivated by the story, Nina approaches her and asks if they can talk more. Believing her mom has found a group of new friends, Lisa feels less stressed and can focus on Max’s adolescent problems.

Eleanor is also surprised to discover that Nina’s father is none other than Roger (Chitwetel Ejiofor), someone Bessie admired greatly. She does find herself becoming friends with Nina and the young girl encourages Eleanor to continue telling her stories and spending time together. They learn more about one another but secrets have a way of coming out and that’s when friendships are tested and forgiveness feels impossible.

Squibb as Eleanor is absolutely stunning in this role as a woman who clearly has a life and history with her friend Bess. They have shared lives since their youth and that includes all the stories that come with it. Trying to start over again it never easy for anyone, but even less for someone who is under the roof of family that don’t understand her. Squibb gives us all the realities of aging from sensible shoes to feeling distant from the life she loved. There are so many moments of heartbreak and laughter that there never is enough time to recover from one to the other and I’d have it no other way.

Kellyman as Nina is a young woman following in her father’s journalistic footprints in her own way. Meeting Eleanor, she believes there is an important story to tell and will not let up on Eleanor until she agrees. Nina doesn’t understand the cost of it and Kellyman is lovely at showing us exactly what it means to love and lose and still love again. Ejiofor as Roger is a man grieving a loss and forgets that he is not the only one who is trying to find a place to put all the emotions. I love Ejiofor in everything he does, and here we see a man trying to do it all alone.

Hecht as Lisa is a daughter doing ‘her duty’ to bring Eleanor to come and live with them, even though she’s trying to find a way around that. There is a muddled history between mother and daughter as the roles are now reversed. Price as Max is a kid who is doing what kids do nowadays, their own thing with emotions that can fit on the head of a pin if it means dealing with anyone but themselves. Well done Price.

Shout out to Zohar as Bessie is so adorable and charming playing next to Squibb. It is totally believable that these two ladies could be lifelong friends.

Other cast includes Lauren Klein as Vera, Stephen Singer as Rabbi Cohen, Raymond Thomas as Professor Thompson, Tristan Murphy as Charlie, Stephen Bradbury as Ivan, Barbara Andres as Clarice, Samti Steigmann as Sami, Mila Falkof as Rebecca and Elaine Bromka as April.

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

ELEANOR THE GREAT was nominated for the Un Certain Regard Award and Golden Camera for Scarlett Johansson at the Cannes Film Festival, nominated for the Grand Special Prize and winner of the Audience Award for Scarlett Johansson at the Deauville Film Festival, and a nominee for Best Feature Film for Scarlett Johansson as the CineFest – Miskolc International Film Festival. 

There is so much about this film to love from the relationship of two life long friends, to mother-daughters history, new friendships but ultimate all in jeopardy because of one story that is told. I love the simplicity of the film that allows us to follow along being able to laugh, jaw drop, feel the pull of our hearts and a level of sincere friendship. Squibb is so marvelous of an actress who, at 95 years old, has put herself wholeheartedly into this story that I can not imagine anyone else playing this role.

This is Johansson’s directorial debut and taking on this storyline is so well done from start to credits. A generational story, we are taken on a journey of two stories – no matter how they are told it is love that transcended both. It is filled with complexities and although it might be easily pointed to Eleanor’s fib as the culprit, it is so much deeper than that and should resonate that way.

In the end – stories have a life of their own!

It is the Return of M3GAN 2.0

 

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Digital and coming to 4K Ultra HD and Bluray from writer/director Gerard Johnstone and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the return of M3GAN 2.0.

It has been a few years as Gemma (Allison Williams) has now become a writer and spends her time advocating for AI regulation while working with cybersecurity expert Christian (Aristotle Athari). Cady (Violet McGraw) is growing up quickly and is following a bit in her aunt’s footsteps studying computer science. Their life is a bit more normal than previously when Gemma learns that the military and a Col. Sattler (Timm Sharp) have an android named Amelia (Ivanna Sakhno) that has gone a bit rogue.

Gemma is worried for Cady and attempts to find ways of protecting her from anything that comes into their home. What she didn’t count on was that M3gan (Amie Donald) is in her home as well and it is her presence in their smart house that warns of what is to come. Offering to help, she convinces Gemma to find her a ‘body’ to help gain access to the information they need. Hacking into the system, M3gan gets them all home, including Gemma, Cole (Brian Jordan Alvarez) and Tess (Jen Van Epps) and shows them a way to create a, well, super M3gan that can take on Amelia.

Secrets are coming out left and right as Gemma and Cady try to keep up with what is actually happening and how to stop it. When Cady is taken, the one thing Gemma knows is very true – M3gan will do whatever is necessary to keep Cady safe and that means no one or nothing will get in her way – no one or nothing.

Williams as Gemma has tried to bring a stable home together after the last run in with M3gan. Writing a book and speaking out for accountability in AI creation and use, having to return to a bad time just wasn’t on her bingo card. Her character of Gemma is smart, a bit of a wisecrack when necessary and trying to be a good role model for Cady and M3gan can test all of that. McGraw as Cady is in her teenage eye-rolling heavy-sigh I-know-best era which always drives me a bit crazy. McGraw does give her character a tough exterior while pretty much being a softie in the middle.

Athari as Christian was Gemma to be a part of the work they are doing and isn’t happy when Gemma rather be on her own. Athari gives us a slick and smart character that really doesn’t know what he’s getting into. Sharp as Sattler is gunning for Gemma without actually understanding what he is doing but then again, you can’t tell a government guy anything.

Donald as M3gan is just stunning as this character. She has all the right moves and with the help of Davis’ voice, they make a perfect good/bad bot. Alvarez as Cole is the bumbling dude who works with Gemma but carries a few chips on his shoulder. Van Epps as Tess also works with Cole and Gemma and is the calmer of the two focused only on stopping Amelia.

Shout out to Jenna Davis as the stunning voice of M3gan. Her humor and horror is unmistakable in that voice and we love it! Also, Jemaine Clement as Alton Appleton showing corruption has its price.

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 Unrated Version Upgraded with enhanced kills, deleted scenes and more blood & carnage, Total Upgrade: Making M3GAN 2.0 Equipped with some killer upgrades, the team that unleaded M3GAN returns, Droid DNA Unveil M3GAN 2.0 as she prepares to tackle rogue military asset Amelia, The Art of Slaying The cast and stunt team discuss creating and executing the film’s most explosive and gruesome action sequences and Scene Breakdown: Embrace AI Convention From a dance battle to a blood fest, this breakdown will show how each department worked together to create this epic and deadly sequence.

M3GAN 2.0, especially the unrated version, will give fans a little more than they expected. The little robot turns into a bit of a John Wick in dancing shoes and a humor setting that is really good. The action and fight scenes are set in some pretty cool settings and nothing gets in the way of it all. The cast reuniting for the film makes it so much more fun to watch and definitely should be on the Saturday night cozy couch double feature.

We are definitely M3GAN fans and M3GAN 2.0 turned out to be even more fun than the first film that came out in 2022. Don’t keep up waiting for a follow up!

In the end – she can never be erased!

 

Disney Released TRON and TRON: Legacy on 4K

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on 4K Ultra HD from Walt Disney Home Entertainment is the 1982 film TRON and the 2010 follow-up TRON: Legacy.

TRON

Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) is a software engineer who run a video game arcade. His pastime includes hacking into his previous employer ENCOM’s system with his own program called a CLU. Alan Bradley (Bruce Boxleitner) and Lora Baines (Cindy Morgan) are dealing with Ed Dillinger (David Warner) who has been living large off of Flynn’s games. When the couple figures it is Flynn using the CLU, they go to his store to warn him. Trying to get evidence of Dillinger’s underhandedness, Flynn finds himself being uploaded into the ENCOM game!

Fitting into the games, Flynn meets Ram (Dan Shor) and Tron and in a game of Light Cycle, the MCP is in hot pursuit. Through it all it becomes clear that Flynn has something the game doesn’t, inside information that can help Tron, he must get past Sark first. Step by step and move by move, Tron and Flynn must find a way to free the system and find a way back home.  

Bridges as Flynn gives 80’s diehard video gamers something to get excited about on the big screen. The character of Flynn has become so iconic that even my own grandchildren know who he is and that is in part to Bridges embracing the character he made so real. Boxleitner in the dual role of Bradley and Tron also gave a character that is complex in both the real and digital world. Morgan as Baines let it be known in the 80’s and today that women are equally as talented in creating as well as playing video games – and I have two grandkids who can attest to that. Both are well versed in how it all works and it is the characters from TRON that are a constant encouragement.

Warner as Dillinger as well as Sark has always been so good at playing bad. Taking on a videogame bad guy is equally as good if not better. He takes on the duality of bad in the real world and the game world and I was all for it in the 80’s and still love watching it every time I see it on television. Remember, “I do the thinking around here!”.

Other cast include Barnard Hughes as Dr. Walter Gibbs, Peter Jurasik as Crom, and Tony Stephano as Peter. The film’s writer/director is Steven Lisberger.

TRON: Legacy

After becoming CEO of ENCOM, seven years has passed and Flynn (Jeff Bridges) spends time with his young son talking about Tron and the grid, then, he suddenly disappears. Twenty years after that, son Sam (Garrett Hedlund) is a shareholder in the company and finding himself in trouble as his father was. Trying to get the company’s software out for free, Sam is arrested forcing Alan Bradley (Bruce Boxleitner) to bail him out because there is a message that brings him to a basement with a computer that suddenly goes off digitizing him into the grid. Immediately captured, Sam is sent to the games. Set to fight Rinzler, he instantly realizes Sam is a ‘user’.

Meeting up with Clu, Sam discovers the Light Cycle matches and it is Quorra (Olivia Wilde) who takes him to a hideout away from it all. It was Clu who sent the message to Bradley getting Sam to the Portal and tells him of the master key disc and his father Flynn. Now, father and son must work together to avoid Castor (Michael Sheen), Rinzler (Anis Cheurfa) and the warship to get back to the arcade as Sam intends to make some changes there as well.

Hedlund as Sam is a young man lost to a lot of his life still thinking about his father. Once in the world that he could never have imagined, he is put in the same danger as his father with one exception – he has Flynn on his side. The return of Jeff Bridges is everything to TRON: Legacy and I could not have wanted to see the film without him. He embraces Flynn and steps back into the role like he never left even though 30 years had passed. Dare I say – he is our Flynn and I loved his return then and now.

Keeping with the formula, Boxleitner returns as Bradley who has been watching out for Sam. Wilde as Quorra is a young ‘woman’ who knows how to protect Sam taking him to the one person who has answers. I love Sheen as Castor/Jarvis as his antics are absolutely fantastic and I have to admit that not smiling when he is on screen is impossible. He brings showmanship into a place no one else but Flynn and Sam could possibly go.

Other cast include Beau Garrett as Gem, James Frain as Jarvis, Jeffrey Nordling as Richard Mackey, Conrad Boates as Bartik, Cillian Murphy as Edward Dillinger Jr. and Steven Lisberger as Shaddix. The director is Joseph Kosinski.

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!

TRON and TRON: Legacy has been digitally scanned and carefully restored by The Walt Disney Film Foundation to take care of direct and other imperfections to the film bringing it a mind-blowing pristine imagery. The man keeping an eye on the process is none other than director Steven Lisberger. It is just in time to see the amazing visuals at a third installment TRON: Ares is set to his theatres October 10, 2025 and the return of Flynn.

What an amazing opportunity to gather the kids and grandkids together to once again explore a film that was and continues to be a literal game changer. Led by Bridges and Leitner, it is not only a story of video games and those who make them but a bit of subtle politics as well. The story speaks of those controlled by others, living under the thumb of a ruthless dictator. Their survival depends on working together in order to stop the evil destruction.

The special effects, beginning with TRON, were absolutely stunning for their time and the remastering proves that director Lisberger got it right the first time. It is still brilliant in color and vibrant in the storytelling. TRON: Legacy reminds us that once again you can have a sequel that stays true to the original characters and storyline while pushing the envelope even further, now, fifteen years later, the prospect of the next part of the story is thrilling to fans.

In the end – the game has changed!

 

DOWNTON ABBEY: The Grand Finale

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently in theatres from director Simon Curtis and Focus Features based on the story created by Julian Fellowes is the ending of an era with DOWNTON ABBEY: The Grand Finale.

It is the 1930’s and the Crawley family is learning to literally change with the times. Beginning with the visiting the London stage show with Guy Dexter (Dominic West) and assistant Barrow (Robert James Collier). Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville), Countess Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael) and husband Bertie (Harry Hadden-Paton) go backstage and meet the ever-popular Noel Coward (Arty Froushan). It is the height of the season and the next evening Lady Petersfield (Joely Richardson) has a ball and Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) is dressed to the nines. That is when Mary’s world comes once again crashing as news of her marriage changes her social status.

Coming back to England is brother Harold (Paul Giamatti) who is visiting to update Cora on their late mother’s estate bringing advisor Gus Sambrook (Alessandro Nivola). The family happily returns to Downton welcomed by butler Carson (Jim Carter) who is turning over the reins to Andy (Michael Fox) under the watchful eye of Mrs. Hughes (Phyllis Logan). He is not the only one retiring as Mrs. Patmore (Lesley Nicol) is also preparing to depart Downton and leaving it in the hands of Daisy (Sophie McShera). Anna (Joanne Froggatt) is still by Mary’s side as is husband Bates (Brendan Coyle) caring for his Lordship. Baxter (Raquel Cassidy) and Mr. Molesley (Kevin Doyle) are still part of the downstairs staff as well. They all know what is happening with Lady Mary and, as always, keep their knowing to themselves.

Arriving at Downton as well is Tom Branson (Allen Leech) bringing daughter Sybbie (Fifi Hart) to visit and be a support to the family and Lady Mary. Isobel (Penelope Wilton) also comes to the family to talk about the upcoming family-community event asking Daisy and Mr. Carson to be part of committee much to the dismay of Sir Moreland (Simon Beale). If all of this wasn’t enough on the Crawley calendar, decisions on changes that have Lord Grantham must now make in order to keep their legacy growing.

Each come to terms with where they have been in their time at Downton Abbey and know that change is not always something to fear.

Other cast include Paul Copley as Albert Mason, Douglas Reith as Lord Merton, Lisa Dillon as Princess Arthur, Sarah Crowden as Lady Manville, Oliver Barker as George, Eva Samms as Marigold, and Rose Galbraith as Lady Gwendoline.

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

Now, let me get my Downton Abbey teapot of Earl Grey, teacup/saucer and my delicate plate of madeleines and box of tissues before I start this. Okay, here we go –

I accidentally discovered DOWNTON ABBEY in 2011 while watching another success story with The Great British Baking Show. For year, those shows were my Sunday night back-to-back fun that I could not get enough of. The cast of DOWNTON ABBEY drew me in immediately (as I am a huge fan of period pieces in television and film) and the storyline was riveting, powerful and thought provoking. The Crawley family, being led by Lord Grantham, are important to the community providing positions in the household as well as farming. From the beginning, the family dynamics were so interesting with Cora being the American wife and three daughters who were clearly so very different. Navigating their world from two different perspectives and finding themselves lost occasionally, Robert and Cora were the stabilizing force of Downton. All of it played beautifully by Bonneville and McGovern with an ending that they deserved that was graceful and loving.

Mary, Edith and Sybil were headstrong, insecure, lovely and met the challenges that the world brought them. Mary found Matthew, Edith found Bertie and Sybil found her prince charming in Tom Branson. Dockery as Mary saw more than her fair share of difficulties but the fact is, when the time came, she knew how to stand tall no matter who tries to knock her down in a time where women scratched harder than we, today, could have imagined. Carmichael as Edith began as a shrinking violet in life, love and an older sister who, at times, was not very nice. Yet, the more she experienced, the more she literally grew and deserved a loving and happily ever after. Findlay played Sybil for years and has never been forgotten season after season up until the last.

Stevenson played Matthew and he, as well, was not forgotten for Mary and I adored that about her. Patton as Bertie gave us a man who was content in his life and when it turned around, he became secure in who he was to become with Edith at his side. Now let’s talk Branson, Leech gave us a bit of Irish rebellion while wearing a chauffer’s uniform. He loved Sybil, lost himself in trying to mix working class with Downtown Abbey and it was a story within itself. I loved watching Leech grow and it was so well done.

Downton could not have been without the staff who kept the household together beginning with Mr. Carson. His story began as a young man working in the Crawley household working his way up to butler and always keeping an eye on Lady Mary. He was tough, secretly gentle but always, always put Downton first! That caused a few eyerolls from Mrs. Hughes, played by Logan, who was a woman of straight talk, a shoulder to cry on and believed that every person in service could be more than they could ever have imagined. Sharing the downstairs was the woman behind the dinners as Mrs. Patmore, played by Nicole, who made the kitchen her place of creation with pride in those she cooked for. Keeping her company was McShera as Daisy, a wide eyed, questioning and sometimes moody “sous chef” who often wondered if she’d ever be as good as her mentor. She does finally find a life with Andy, played by Fox, who shares his story of climbing the ladder of service but with a subdued character that made him instantly likeable.

Taking care of Mary’s needs was Froggat’s Anna, a woman with heart, soul and a person that trouble seems to follow on the regular. I just adored the character of Anna as such a stable force among the downstairs and even when her life was just in shambles, she found her way back. Mr. Bates might have had something to do with that strength; Coyle is a man wounded by war but finds a safe space and a kinship with Lord Grantham while also being the man who takes care of the head of house. When his life becomes a roadmap of chaos, it is Anna that helps him consistently so watching their ending in this film was everything anyone could have hoped for. Mr. Moseley, played by Doyle, is the insecure bumbler of a footman who always seems to find himself on the ins and then the outs of Downton until he accidentally stumbles into a line of work that he enjoys and provides. It also gives him a chance at love with Miss Baxter; Cassidy portrays her as a woman who is used for his back history until the day she stood tall and made a new life for herself. Who was using that back history? Well, that would be Mr. Barrow played brilliantly by James Collier. This actor spent years perfecting the man who we all loved to hate and then love again. A mixture of complexities had everyone guessing every episode whether we all wanted to shake him or hug him. In the finale, Barrow finds the missing piece of his life in silent film actor Guy Dexter played by West.

Wilton as Isobel takes the center controls with the absence of Maggie Smith as the Dowager Violet Crawley. Taking the lead in representing the family for the township, I adore her ability to remain steadfast and even cutting when she needed to be and what a relationship between Isobel and Violet that can never be matched or repeated ever again. In the final film, West returns as Dexter to say his final farewells to the Crawley’s and brings along Noel Coward in the form of Froushan and I loved every moment he was on screen. Giamatti returns as Cora’s brother Harold and is taught a lesson in sisterly tough love but knows he can always come ‘home’.

The film is stunningly beautiful with the costuming, the score is everything we have come to know and memorable and, of course, Downton Abbey itself in the form of Highclere Castle. Every time a vintage car pulled in it was the light sound of pebbles below the tires, the front door castes and the sound of the click of the latch, the library that held so many teas, the staircase that is surrounded by stunning artwork, the gallery that overlooked so many events, the lush green vast lawn that anyone would be happy to stroll along – all of it, breathtaking. There are many castles in Europe but to Downton Abbey fans, there is only one that stole our hearts. Not stolen really, more like held onto it until the saga came to its conclusion, then returned it to us with a bow and a ‘thank you’ for the years of dedication we also had to the show.

Finally, to creator Julian Fellowes, how can this woman ever thank you for your thoughtfulness, your ability to tell an amazing story that has kept the world captivated and talking, the time it took for your imagination to find its way onto paper then screen and for taking us all year after year on a journey as the world changed in so many ways for Downton and its inhabitants. These characters grew, changed, felt their worlds collapse only to be rebuilt into something stronger, found amazing joy, unexpected friendships, death of beloved characters and birth of new additions to the family. Thank you for giving me Violate Crawley in the body of Maggie Smith, the woman who had my heart and spoke the words I always wanted to on so many occasions. You kept her front and center even after we all had to say goodbye. It was all you sir, and the words ‘thank you’ feel not enough to express what you have brought to us all.

As I sit here and sit the last drop of my tea, I am comforted in the knowledge that right behind me is a Blu-ray of every season of DOWNTON ABBEY as well as the films that followed. Anytime I wish, I can return to the characters that I have loved so much. DOWNTON ABBEY: The Grand Finale was a hard watch, yes. Kleenex worthy? Absolutely. There are moments that just wrecked me and when the lights came up in the theatre, I was so surprised to see that there wasn’t a dry eye in the seats. We all looked at one another and sort of giggled, passing tissue and felt that we had just experienced one of the best endings of a series ever. Strangers had become talking friends walking out of the theatre with tears turning into laughter and hugs. It was an extraordinary experience and, I will remember it. Or, in the words of the Dowager, “My dear, a lack of compassion can be as vulgar as an excess of tears”.

In the end – the time has come to say goodbye!

 

 

 

BAU: ARTIST AT WAR

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Sean McNamara, ShowBiz Direct and Republic Pictures is the story of a talent that saved many lives with BAU, ARTIST AT WAR.

Joseph Bau (Emile Hirsch) is a Jewish artist living in Krakow, Poland in 1943 as the Nazi’s wreak havoc across Europe. He is a talented artist but also talented at creating identification cards for his people feeling the need to be of help. The one person who isn’t happy about it is father Abraham (Eugene Lipinski) which upsets mother Cyla (Pam Kearns). Living in the Krakow, they are all rousted late in the night by soldiers sent to ‘liquidate’ the ghetto by sending all to the Plaszow concentration camp.

Kommendant Goeth (Josh Blacker) almost immediately calls Bau to his office wanting to use his artistry and map making skills. There, he meets Itzhak Stern (Adam Tsekhman), Oskar Shindler’s (Edward Foy) accountant who sets him up for the work Bau is to do. By day he fulfills the duties of map maker to stay alive and by night uses his art to bring a bit of joy to the other survivors. He also meets the lovely Rebecca (Inbar Lavi) who sees Bau as a little strange but intriguing.

Goeth’s henchman Franz Gruen (Yan Tual) has issues with Bau and has made it his personal mission to be as brutal as possible toward him. That doesn’t stop Bau from getting deeper in the camp learning more about Schindler and Itzhak’s plans and about Rebecca. The time will come when all must sacrifice in the name of the people and the name of survival. Years later it will be time to hold accountable those who tried to destroy a nation and Bau has a story to tell with unexpected help.

Hirsch as Bau gives us a look inside the life of an amazing artist who also had a talent for comforting people and helping to save them as well. Bau is a complex person from the very beginning as Hirsch gives his portrayal light in the darkest of times. Aware that every move that anyone in the camp makes could result in death, Hirsch’s Bau walks carefully and teeters on the edge of danger many times. This portrayal is moving and still allows for moments of smiles and hope.

Blacker as Goeth is the man everyone is afraid of and rightfully so. His willingness to end life has no limits and the constant threat by anyone around him is palpable. There seems to be only one person that doesn’t feel his wrath as Blacker doesn’t hesitate to take on the role of a man that is pure evil. Below him is Tual as Gruen, a man perhaps more ruthless than Goeth as he finds a twisted sense of accomplishment in his ending of life. He becomes focused on Bau and it brings on such brutality that spreads into others. Tual is also an actor bravely taking on a role that brings on such a visceral reaction of those watching, so well done.

Tsekhman as Stern works in Goeth’s office keeping things running smoothly and takes Bau under his wing as it were. Seeing the potential of what Bau can do for the cause of saving lives, Tsekhman’s role as Stern is one of strength, courage and cunning all in the name of helping his people survive insurmountable odds. Foy as Shindler is a man who has plans of his own that started out one way and turned into another. Taking advantage of the war for financial gain, it doesn’t take long before he realizes that he can do so much more than that and knows exactly how to make it all work.

Lavi as Rebecca meets Bau and isn’t sure what to make of him. Standing back, she watches how he is with others in the camp and especially with the young boy Michal and her heart changes. I love the strength Lavi shows in her portrayal of Rebecca and I was horrified at the scene with Goeth and held my breath many, many times. Lipinski as Abraham is a father who wants what’s best for his son even if he doesn’t truly understand him. Once they are in camp together, he begins to understand who he truly is and what he offers those around him. Kearns as mother Cyla understands her son Joseph and enjoys his sense of artistry and humor. She clearly is portrayed as a loving person and we see that in Kerarns’ performance. 

Shout out to Zuckerman as Michael who shows up in Bau’s life in 1971 with secrets of his own and has the chance to hear Bau’s story from beginning to end. 

Other cast include Chris Cope as Mietek, Michael Benyaer as Saul, Boris Bilic as Nathaniel, Aias Dalman as Michal, Dalias Blake as Alesky, Tori Griffith as Dyta, Leslie Deschutter as Alicija, Craig Erickson as Karl Richter and Josh Zuckerman as Michael.

Showbiz Direct is a pioneering motion picture distribution company dedicated to transforming the landscape of movie distribution. They stand as a direct catalyst for bringing deserving content into the limelight ensuring that voices have a chance to be heard and visions have the opportunity to be seen on the big screen. For more please visit www.showbizdirectdistribution.com.

Republic Pictures, originally founded in 1935, is revitalized under Paramount Global Content Distribution. Their library includes such films as BLACKBERRY, MILLERS IN MARRIAGE, MOTHER MOTHER, TWINLESS and BAD APPLES. For more please visit www.paramountmovies.com/Republic-Pictures.

BAU: ARTIST AT WAR is a remarkable film that could easily be watched alongside SCHINDLER’S LIST. The cinematography of black and white dotted with color brings an appreciation of the two eras being portrayed. The subject matter is always one that tugs at the heart because of the fear and intensity it brings up, especially in the world we find ourselves in now. People taken for no other reason than their Jewish ancestry, people taken because they were seen as inferior to a man with inferiorities of his own making, seem familiar?

The cast does a stunning job of bringing the story of Joseph Bau in this film. The running time of two hours and 10 minutes is worthy of every moment. This history of Joseph and Rebecca Bau is a stunning one and should be a teachable moment, and serve as a reminder to us all. Rebecca helped survivors of the Holocaust deal with their pain and Bau eventually worked for the Mossad and the Israeli Intelligence Agency returning to Israel in 1950.

In the end – it is all about love!

He Hears LONDON CALLING

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Allan Ungar and Quiver Distribution comes the story of hits and unlikely friendships with LONDON CALLING.

Tommy Ward (Josh Duhamel) is a well-known hitman in the UK. Boss Harry (Arnold Vosloo) sends him out of an important hit and it has gone, well, really bad. Now, with a bounty on his head, Tommy has to say goodbye to his son and get out of London going to the one place he hates – Los Angeles. A few years has passed and now Tommy works for Benson (Rick Hoffman) doing the same odd hit here and there and finding what he does best – trouble!

The word gets out internationally that Tommy is in L.A. and one interested person is Freddy Darby (Aidan Gillen) who has a bone to pick with him. Tommy wants to get back to London to see his son and Benson suggests a trade, a plane ticket for help with son Julian (Jeremy Ray Taylor). Julian is a kid into video games and larping which has dad Benson just believing that the family business will disappear if he doesn’t grow up. The trade is this; take Julian to look for the next hit, Alistair McRory (Neil Sandilands) and see it through.

Tommy really isn’t happy with the arrangement but finds himself wanting to help the young man, especially after learning he’d been bullied by his larping group. The lessons begin in shooting, hand to hand ‘combat’, and how to scare people into doing what they want. They get to practice on Seamus McRory (Brandon Auret), Alistair’s brother. As if the pair isn’t busy enough, let’s not forget Darby and his axe that needs grinding. The most unlikely pair getting into the most ridiculous trouble soon discover that this twisted friendship has heart!

Duhamel as Tommy clearly had several good years as a hitman and his name is known to everyone in the game. Something is not quite right but Tommy refuses to hear anything about it, even when a grave mistake sends him to L.A. I love Duhamel’s attitude which is almost that of a grumpy old man. Being a hitman seems to be the only thing that eases the steam from a very hot kettle. There is also a soft spot that Julian taps into and it can be a good or bad thing depending on how you take the chaos!

Taylor as Julian is a kid who is floundering a bit and he finds solace in larping which, by the way, is still a thing enjoyed by a lot of people Feeling the strain between he and father Benson, it is an escape that it both helpful and hurtful. Being sent with Tommy, Julian takes everything he learns in stride and Taylor is a combination of hilarious and needing a warm hug to bat away the insecurities of this character.

Hoffman as Benson is just the worst of the worst of bosses. He has no problem leaving a trail of bodies all over L.A. and happily throws money at Tommy to make it happen. When he is confronted by his son’s issues, like a boss he appointments someone else to handle it. When Darby shows up, its dollar signs, not a father’s love that motivates him. He’s creepy and icky which Hoffman pulls off with ease. Gillen as Darby is just a hot mess that wants to be the one to end Tommy and a trip to L.A. seems like a fun way to do it.

Sandilands as Alistair is just bat-doo-doo nuts and I am all about it. His character is twisted, all over the place and in need of some intense therapy. That being said, if you’re going to have a madman running after you, Sandilands character of Alistair is the guy to get the job done. Auret as brother Seamus knows Alistair is a sandwich short of a picnic but hey, he’s family and that means everything so let the war begin. 

Other cast include Daniah De Villiers as Erika, Daniel Thomas as Arthur, Daniel Lasker as Barnabus, Jazzara Jaslyn as Darya, Ntlanhla Morgan Kutu as Amos Woodley, Finnley Barnett as Oliver and Karl Thaning as Ricky.                                           

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LONDON CALLING is a mixture of action, suspense, drama, comedy and a few unlikely hitmen. There are twists and turn that bring unexpected surprises with giggles that can’t be suppressed. Duhamel and Taylor together make a great team in the midst of the reasons they are having to get a job done. They learn to understand one another which keeps them moving toward a day of larping and a reunion with family.

Director Ungar takes the story on a ride that matches Tommy’s gold toned 1969 Pontiac Grand Prix. Tommy is supposed to be teaching Julian how to be a ‘man’ but it is their relationship that helps them both grow up. The cinematography is fast and explosive to say the least which adds to the weird telling of the film. Hang on to your gun because this is going to get outlandish and entertaining.

In the end – this isn’t any ordinary babysitting job!