THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently available on digital, streaming platforms, and coming to 4K Ultra HD and Bluray from director David Frankel and 20th Century Studios is what we have been waiting for with THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2..

It has been twenty years since Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) and Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) were in the same room together at Runway. Spending years as a journalist and winning an award, Andy discovers that her job has become expendable, along with fellow journalists. At the same time, Miranda is with an article accusing her of using sweatshops for fashion. Erv Ravitz (Tibor Feldman), owner of Runway, is working on finding a way to restore the magazine's credibility.

Without speaking with Miranda, Ravitz hired Andy to become the features editor for Runway, to start on that credibility process. Miranda is not happy, but then again, when is she, and how can you tell? The first thing that needs dealing with are the advertisers. Miranda, Andy and Nigel (Stanley Tucci) head to a meeting with one such advertiser at Dior, Emily (Emily Blunt). Shocked to hear that Andy is the features editor at Runway, Emily’s claws are sharpening on Amanda’s plight.

When Andy’s articles aren’t getting the traction Runway needs, she kicks into high gear getting the one interview that no one else seems to be able to get. That is with recluse Sasha Barnes (Lucy Liu). Miranda is thrilled that it puts a promotion Erv has been promising back in play. Andy’s life picks up because of it and she brings a man into her life, Peter (Patrick Brammall). As Nigel starts to make plans for the Milan runway show, a tragedy makes huge changes as Jay Ravitz (B.J. Novak) starts to make everyone’s life incredibly difficult.

Then, Andy gets an idea that can change the face of Runway with the help of Emily and her boyfriend Benji (Justin Theroux). Sometimes, what looks like a good idea brings about the truth about old feelings that just never go away. That doesn’t mean you should never stop trying, at least in Andy and Miranda’s minds!

Hathaway returns as Andy, a woman who has made her way up the journalistic ladder on to be shot down once again. Making it clear in a rant that goes viral about the loss of value for writers, she finds herself back where she began, in front of Miranda Priestly. What I love about Hathaway’s return is that although she has definitely changed her style a bit, not everything about her has changed. She still believes in the fight, her reconnection with Nigel and isn’t quite sure how to feel seeing that Miranda is being forced to change. Also, I love that she still has friendships from the previous film.

Streep as Miranda is exactly how you might think she would be twenty years later. Still dismissive, still standoffish, but finding that the world that she has always been in control of, might be slipping away. You have to give this character props for having the ability to not only stand her ground but also show vulnerability when the pressure isn’t turning into a diamond. Streep became the icon for Miranda Priestly, and no one, absolutely no one, could have taken over this role. I love her feistiness, and the reality of change brings her back to the fact that she has to let others in, including Andy.

Tucci as Nigel, lovely, lovely Nigel is just as insightful as ever. Watching everything happening around him, he never stops pushing forward. Watching Tucci and Hathaway rekindle their friendship is just heartwarming and funny, as he still is the only one to be able to dress her. Ever loyal to Miranda, no matter how many times he is overlooked, I love that Tucci’s portrayal is quietly loving, loyal to a fault, and still sees things that no one else does. It must be said, Nigel is the friend we all need, especially when access to a dress closet is included.

Blunt as Emily also hasn’t changed in the slightest. Working at Dior, she finds enjoyment in lauding Miranda’s problem over her. Always one step ahead of Andy, there are moments of brilliance and moments of jaw-dropping, but it’s to be expected of Emily. Blunt is chic, very cool, a bit of a narcissist (like we didn’t know that), and is about to discover that old grudges never serve well. I just adore her, though!

Novak as Benji is following in his father’s footsteps, but more so in the social world than in the hard copy of Runway. His role is a little different, as it should be, because twenty years ago, Runway was all print; he recognizes that medium isn’t working. Theroux as Benji is just a tad creepy from beginning to end. At first, I didn’t recognize him, but there he is, being a weird AI dude who forgets that the world doesn’t live in his realm of belief, as he is about to find out.

Shout out to Branaugh as Stuart, Miranda’s current husband, who seems to be so secure in himself that he lets Miranda be Miranda. Supportive and loving, he is just a charming addition that doesn’t need what it seems everyone else does.

Other cast include Rachel Bloom as Talia, Larry Mitchell as Mack, Pauline Chalamet as Ilana, Wes McGee as Frank, Simone Ashley as Amari, Caleb Hearon as Charlie, George C. Wolfe as Paul, Helen J. Shen as Jin Chao, and Tracie Thoms as Lily.

Cameos include Ciara, Doyoung, Kara Swisher, Amelia Dimoldenberg, Kal-Anthony Towns, Jon Batiste, Callum Harper, Rory Mcllroy, Law Roach, Ronny Chieng, Moon Ga-young, Heidi Klum, Jenna Bush Hager, Lady Gaga, Naomi Campbell, Winnie Harlow, Donatella Versace, and Marc Jacobs.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global products and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. Their amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have, please visit www.fox.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.

Bonus Features include Level Up: Updating the Icons: Join the cast, crew, and other notables as they look back on the iconic first film and its timelessness. Then see how the characters and their wardrobes have evolved for the sequel, and follow the shoot in New York, Inside the Fashion Closet: Sit down with the cast, filmmakers, and lead costume designer Molly Rogers as she talks about dressing Miranda, Andy, Emily, and Nigel. Discover their of-the-moment but timeless fashion looks that shine a spotlight on each of their personalities, Front-Row Access: Shooting in Italy, join the cast, crew, and director David Frankel as he talks about the production in Italy and shooting during Milan’s fashion week. Hear how top design houses supported the production and how Runway’s own fashion show and concert was created.

“Runway” Music Video by Lady Gaga and Doechii: Turn it up with Lady Gaga and Doechii in their music video for the movie’s new song, “Runway,” Gag Reel: Check out the fun on set in these outtakes from the making of the movie and Audio Commentary by David Frankel, Aline Brosh McKenna, and Molly Rogers: Watch the film with audio commentary by director David Frankel, writer Aline Brosh McKenna, and costume designer Molly Rogers.

DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 doesn’t try to capture lightning in a bottle but instead guides us twenty years into what the world is now, which is another kind of lightning. Social media, digital articles, clickbait, and AI are bringing Runway into the future but not without its bumps and growing pains. That is where we are now in the world, as a writer, I totally understand the problems and aggravation that Andy and Miranda are struggling with.

Both Andy and Miranda are wholehearted believers in the tradition of the written word and in the beauty that should be shared traditionally. Instead, they are both met with the harsh reality that no one seems to care about that. Being they are both fighters, they still need time to figure out where they fit in the grand scheme of things without losing their moral code. I love that about this film, that the original characters are holding on to that and that, although willing to compromise on some levels, they refuse to let go where it counts.

So, for all the fans of the original THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, you will be thrilled at the new story, the return of iconic characters, and that Andy, Miranda, Nigel, and Emily do not fail to deliver. THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 brings laughs, freshness, love, fashion, the tests of loyalty, friendship, and perspective – what a way to bring our beloved characters together again.

In the end – the devil is in the details!

 

AVATAR: Fire and Ash

 

Jeri Jacquin

Today on Digital and coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray, 3D Bluray and DVD from director James Cameron and 20^th Century Studios is the continuation of AVATAR: Fire and Ash.  

On Metkayina, Jake (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) are grieving the death of their son Neteyam, but there won’t be much time for grief because Colonel Quaritch (Stephen Lang) is back. When Na’vi merchant ships arrive, they decide that the safest place for Spider (Jack Champion) to be is back at the human scientist camp. When their children Kiri (Sigourney Weaver), Lo’ak (Britain Dalton), and Tuk (Trinity Jo-Li Bliss) refuse, it is decided they will go as a family together.

The Colonel is being ordered by General Ardmore (Edie Falco) to find the one person they believe will get people on their side – Jake. Of course, the Colonel has a score to settle with Jake, and he also wants to find Spider. Once the family is on their way, they are attacked by the Na’vi known as Mangkwan and their vicious leader Varang (Oona Chaplin). Running for their lives, Spider runs out of air, and it is Kiri who saves him. At the same time, it changes Spider!

Varang wants one thing: to take over all the Na’vi and rule them all. Seeing the weaponry, she knows it's her way to reach her goal. The Colonel also realizes that since Sully and the other Na’vi will fiercely fight, he turns to Varang, giving her what she wants. Jake leans on Tonowan (Cliff Curtis) and his wife, Ronal (Kate Winslet), to help bring the people together. Fighting the sky people one more time for not only their continued freedom, but to put those on notice that the Na’vi will not be destroyed – now or ever!

Worthington returns as Jake Sully, fighting once again to keep his family safe while dealing with the grief of losing his son. There is tension between all family members, but once the fight begins, they each bring their own abilities with Jake at the helm. Worthington has a more emotional side to his character this time. His character may be blue, but all the emotions show on Worthington's face. Saldana returns as Neytiri, a mother who is also grieving, and that grief turns to anger that has her saying and doing things that are quite surprising. I was actually quite surprised at the anger-hatred mix, and there is one particular scene that sums it up. That being said, she still is a fighter – not just for her family, but for her people.

Lang is back as the violent Col. Quaritch, a man who doesn’t get the Na’vi and doesn’t seem to want to. He might have a fondness for Spider, but only when it’s convenient for him. Put a gun in his blue hands, and he’s all about the battle and will do anything to get to the one person he holds a grudge about – Jake Sully. Lang gives us a character we love to hate. Weaver, as Kiri provides the story of a girl who wants to know who she truly is and where she comes from. I love that Weaver is her voice because it reminds us that Grace isn’t that far away. Chaplin as Varang is a totally unlikeable character as a leader who doesn’t mind killing her own. All that is in her heart is power, pure power, and will team up with whoever gives it to her. Well done, Chaplin!

Champion as Spider is a young man who is torn between two worlds. The Na’vi are the people he has known almost all of his life; the Colonel seems to be a person of interest, but not enough to turn away from Kiri and the rest of the Sully clan. From the first film until now, I’m pleased that Champion returns because I suspect his role will become even larger in future films. Stay Spider Champion! Dalton, as Lo’ak, is also dealing with the death of his brother, but it is the guilt that is putting a wedge between himself and his parent. Turning to his Tulkun water friend Payakan, Lo’ak sees him as the one thing in their world who believes in him. Dalton is such a sad character, yet a warrior that his father doesn’t quite see yet. Bliss, as Tuk, is as adorable now as she was in the first film. She is all watching, and her story, I have a feeling, is yet to be told.   

Shout out to Winset as Ronal, a strong Metkayina who doesn’t take guff from anyone, and that includes Neytiri, as they seem to still be in a war of women's power. Cliff Curtis as Tonowari, a chief who not only does right by his own people, but sees the Sully clan as one of his own. David Thewlis as Peylak, even blue, I knew immediately who he was as the captain of the Na’vi sky merchants.

Other cast include Joel Moore as Dr. Spellman, CCH Pounder as Mo’at, Jemaine Clement as Dr. Garvin, David Thewlis as Peylak, Jamie Flatters as Neteyam, Bailey Bass as Reya, Filip Geljo as Aonung, Duane Evans Jr. as Rotxo, Dileep Rao as Dr. Patel, and Giovanni Ribisi as Parker Selfridge.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. Their amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have, please visit www.20thcenturystudios.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. 

Bonus Features include English Family Audio Track, Igniting the Flame The Making of AVATAR: Fire and Ash, Writing Sequels, Pandoran Design, RDA Design, The Women of Pandora, Varang and the Mangkwan, Capturing Performance, Stunts, Editing and Virtual Camera, WETA FX, ILM, Score, The Art and Impact of 3D, Home in New Zealand, Jon Landau Tribute, RDA Orientation, Na’vi 101: The RDA’s Official Language Orientation, Pandor Intelligence Brief, Marketing Materials & Music Video, “Dream as One” Music Video, and Theatrical Trailers.

AVATAR: Fire and Ash is a three-hour and seventeen-minute battle of not only the Na’vi and the Sky People but the Na’vi against the Na’vi! That means Jake, his family, and the peaceful Na’vi are having to deal with all sides coming at them. The visual are, as in previous films, are colorful, bright, and the action sequences will have eyes moving all over the screen. It lacks nothing for special effects knowing that although the Na’vi are tall and blue, it is the actors who bring them to life.

The film won Best Visual Effects for Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, Eric Saindon and Daniel Barrett at this years Academy Awards. It also won Top 10 Films from the American Film Institute Awards, Best Voice Acting/Animated/Digital Performance for Oona Chaplin from the Austin Film Critics Association as well as Best Visual Effects, Outstanding Voice Performance for Zoe Saldana from the Black Reel Awards, Best Special Visual Effects from the British Academy Film Awards, Best Visual Effects from the Critics’ Choice Awards, Best Visual Effects from the Florida Film Critics Circle, and so many more.

Director James Cameron says the film “is an immersion…and into a world that brings these characters to life as they feel like real people. These characters pull you into their stories. It’s a very emotional journey. It’s a film about grief, loss, and how people process it and get through it to get to a hopeful place in life. I am so proud of the actors for what they did in the film.”

Worthington, as Sully, describes his character in this film, “We find Jake struggling with his son's passing away, trying to find hope and direction. His relationship with the newest clan is the darkest he’s encountered. What I like about the film is the connectivity and the shared unity.”

AVATAR: Fire and Ash is another installment of Cameron’s story with more to come. In his plans are two more Avatar films set to be released in 2029 and 2031, if you can imagine those dates in the future. Let’s wait and see!

In the end – the fight isn’t over!

 

 

Get Ready to SEND HELP

 

Jeri Jacquin

This week on Digital, including Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango and coming to 4K Ultra HD and DVD from director Sam Raimi and 20^th Century Studios, comes a look at the need to SEND HELP.

Linda Liddle (Rachel McAdams) is a corporate strategist who works hard while everyone else takes the credit. Taking each stab at her, the only reason she stays at her job is that the CEO of the company has promised her a promotion. Unfortunately, with the CEO’s passing, his son, the brat Bradley Preston (Dylan O’Brien), has taken the reins. Their first meeting doesn’t go so well, and to make it worse, she learns his position has been given to someone else.

Confronting Preston, he is blunt with her, saying she isn’t the right person for the job. Willing to give her a shot, a trip to Bangkok for a company merger is his way to appease her. The next day, Linda arrives at the airport only to discover that Preston has brought a plane load of his guy friends, leaving her in the back of the plane. Once in the air, she gets to work while the others play. That is, until the plane explodes and sends everyone into the sea below.

Surviving, Linda finds Preston hurt and takes care of him. How does she do that? Linda is a fan of the show Survivor and has learned a thing or two. More than a thing or two as she begins to make their lives a little more comfortable. When Preston wakes up, he almost immediately takes on a superior tone with Linda, reminding her that he is the boss. From that moment on, Linda finds ways to remind Preston that they are no longer in the office and she doesn’t need him to survive.

He, on the other hand…

McAdams as Linda is a woman who has been living a life that has allowed others to use her. Waiting for her time to move up into the job she has worked for, it takes an arrogant son to collapse that dream. Once on the island, she shows that everyone underestimated her. I love that McAdams played this role because it is unlike any other that she has had. She had me laughing and dropping my jaw a few times. There is nothing better than a surprise film that made me sad it was over.

O’Brien as Preston is a bratty, entitled man-child who’s only interested in being rude and dismissive to people, most of all Linda. The roller coaster of being on the island with her, he takes countless shots, only to realize he isn’t the smartest person on the island. O’Brien, taking on the character of Preston, is awesome because he easily pulls off the arrogant boy, and I’m here for it. Even though Linda made me laugh, Preston made me laugh harder in his reactions.

Other cast include Edyll Ismail as Zuri, Xavier Samuel as Donovan Murphy, Chris Pang as Chase, and Dennis Haysbert as Franklin.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. Their amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have, please visit www.20thcenturystudios.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.

There is over two hours of bonus content that audiences can view to take a deeper dive behind the scenes of Sam Raimi’s twisted survival thriller.

SEND HELP gave me a mixture of WAR OF THE ROSES (1989), MISERY (1990), and CASTAWAY (2000). The best part of that? Those three films are some of my absolute favorites. Writers Damian Shannon and Mark Swift went for the brass ring in their writing, from hilarious to shocking to jaw-dropping, and didn’t hide behind guessing. Raimi takes their script and bathes us in every word and every idea that includes shocks and twists.

McAdams and O’Brien hold their own in every single frame of the film once they are on the island together. It is a chance to explore these two characters, and just when it becomes clear who they are, the script is flipped – on us. The clever writing and directing means that SEND HELP is a film that should be enjoyed with a group of friends who are, well, dying to enjoy a good night into the bold, darker side of life.

In the end – she’s from strategy and planning!

PREDATOR: Badlands

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Digital and coming to 4K Ultra HD and Bluray from director Dan Trachtenberg and 20^th Century Studios is the other side of PREDATOR: Badlands.

Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi) and his brother Kwei (Mike Homik) are in the midst of intense and dangerous training. Dek wants to be made part of the Yautja tribe and wants his father Njohrr’s (Ruben de Jong) approval. Part of that is doing what other’s have not been able to – hunt and capture the Kalisk on the planet Genna. After a fight breaks out, Kwei sends his brother off in a ship on his mission.

Landing on Genna, Dek immediate faces creatures and now he becomes the hunted in many ways. Trying to escape them, he meets Thia (Elle Fanning), a damaged android belonging to the Weyland-Yutani Corporation. Missing the lower half of her body and convincing Dek that he needs a tool to help him find the Kalisk, he begrudgingly agrees. In the fight for food, a creature Thia names Bud becomes part of the group causing Dek even more agitation.

Finding Thia’s campground destroyed by the Kalisk, she tells him about another android named Tessa that is like family to her. Attempting to fix herself with the equipment that survived an attack, Dek takes on the Kalisk. What they also get is a team from Weyland-Yutani led by none other than Tessa as they are both taken prisoner because Weyland-Yutani Corporation wants what the Kalisk has.

Dek and Thia decide that this is not how it’s going to go down at all – this is when Dek, Thia and Bud take matters into their own hands and a reckoning is due!

Schuster-Koloamatangi comes out swinging as Dek. Covered completely in special effects and masks, it doesn’t stop him from showing he has what it takes to jump, slash, climb and carry around an f/x android. It is not a bad way to be a leading man at all. His character proves that size doesn’t matter when you have skill and dedication. Starting out hard as nails, he begins to understand the world off his planet and Schuster-Koloamatangi portrays that.

Fanning gets the chance to play double duty as two androids Tessa and Thia. Thia is the one that has a grasp of the planet and its creatures but also has a heart of gold whether that was hardwired initially or not. Tessa, however, is the angry android that wants to please MU/TH/UR and doesn’t care what she has to do to accomplish that goal. Well done Fanning for getting your chops all over this film with humor, no legs for a time and lots of special effects.

Other cast include Stefan Grube as the voice of Kwei, Rohinal Narayan as the voice of Bud, Alison Wright as the voice of MU/TH/UR and Cameron Brown as Smyth.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.20thcenturystudios.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.

Bonus Feautures include Deleted & Pre-Visualization Scenes with Optional Audio Commentary: Sand Trap-Squirt Canyon-Tessa vs. Abe-Razor Grass-The Outpost-Super Power Loader Extended, Featurettes: Embodying the Predator, Authentic Synthetics, Building the Badlands, Dek of the Yautja and Audio Commentary with Director Trachtenberg.

PREDATOR: Badlands takes the Predator franchise and mixes it up the Alien franchise. It isn’t difficult to figure out which is which with the ships, equipment and concept of getting whatever Weyland wants no matter the cost or who pays the price. This is definitely a film for sci-fi fans with that combination. Schuster-Koloamatangi and Fanny completely carry the film from start to finish and it’s actually quite enjoyable.

Watching it on a large flat screen with a sound bar is pretty cool as well. So, turn off the lights, pop that popcorn and meet the mash up. Not everyone the franchises thought was bad, actually is. Perhaps we have misunderstood them both all along…nahhhhhhh!

In the end – first hunt, last chance!

SPRINGSTEEN: Deliver Me From Nowhere

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Digital and coming to 4K Bluray from director Scott Cooper and 20^th Century Studios is the story of an icon with SPRINGSTEEN: Deliver Me From Nowhere.

Spending some time after his latest tour, Bruce Springsteen (Jeremy Allen White) finds a house in Freehold, New Jersey so that he spent time writing songs. Spending time with friend Matt (Harrison Gilbertson), he also buys a car and heads to the play with The Stony Pony. He also ran into people he knew whether they liked his music or not. Trying to deal with a rush of memories, the record executive Al Teller (David Krumholtz) is asking Springsteen’s manager Jon Landau (Jeremy Strong) when the next album would be ready.

Springsteen is being haunted by the memories of his father Douglas (Stephen Graham) who was an alcoholic and mother Adele (Gaby Hoffmann) who consistently tries to keep harm from coming to a young Bruce. The words start pouring out of him and he realizes that the music might not please the executive. Springsteen and his tech Mike (Paul Walter Hauser) create a makeshift studio on the house and record from there. Not understanding his behaviors is Faye (Odessa Young), a woman trying to have a relationship with Springsteen but she can’t get past the walls he has created.

When the cassette is delivered to the execs, they are clearly not happy with the results. Landau explains that these songs are deeply personal for Springsteen and that the conditions for the album are set in stone. In the studio, another album coms together. would also include the song Born in the U.S.A. Landau turns to masters who manage to save the raw words and music Springsteen created in his home which comes in the form of the album Nebraska.

His dynamic with his father begins to change but everything, the memories of childhood, his musician’s life and relationships push him into a dark place that frightens him to the point of collapse. Turning to his friend, it is time for Springsteen to face the past and embrace the future he was born to.

White as Springsteen takes his performance into the darker side of the iconic musician’s life. Battling demons, he spent his life pushing so hard against. As with all demons, they eventually push there way into life and it is through words and music that it all comes back. White gives a stellar performance showing a man very clear on what is causing his inability to do what he wants to do but unclear on how to keep it from owning him. White gives a harsh but painful reality to that confusion and does so with a grace that is steeped in heartbreak.

Strong as Landau is a man clearly in touch with what Springsteen is able to accomplish and, although he might not understand it at times, he is the one man who will fight for him to the end. Strong’s performance is thoughtful, insightful and giving us a look at a friendship most of us will never know in this life.

Graham as father Douglas is a man with his own liquid demons that also cannot be controlled. It is not a surprise where Springsteen learned it from. Graham’s performance is one of harshness and a regret that comes with age. Hoffmann as mother Adele is a woman who, in essence, fights back until her son can fight on his own. She comes from an era where you don’t throw away a husband because of his flaws and you support a son that is doing what he loves.

Krumholtz as record exec Teller cannot seem to grasp the concept of Springsteen’s music but that’s because he only sees dollar signs and not music. Krumholtz gives his character the right amount of ick-factor to get the job done. Hauser as Mike is another supporter of his friend Springsteen and is the constant messenger that takes nothing but his friend’s music to heart.

Other cast include Marc Maron as Chuck Plotkin, Grace Gummer as Barbara Landau, Chris Jaymes as Dennis King, Johnny Cannizzaro as Steven Van Zandy, and Brian Chase as Max Weinberg. Also, Jay Buchanan, Jake Kiszka, Sam Kiszka as Cats on a Smooth Surface.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.20thcenturystudios.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.

Digital & 4K Bluray Bonus Materials include Exclusive Four-Act Documentary: Making SPRINGSTEEN: Deliver Me From Nowhere and Act 1: From Book to Screen, Act 2: Beyond the Music, Act 3: Becoming Bruce Springsteen, and Act 4: Deep Authenticity.

SPRINGSTEEN: Deliver Me From Nowhere is quite a powerful biopic and what makes it so is that most of us during the time were Dancing in the Dark , there was no way to know what lie beneath the surface. It follows that what we see on stage, the performance and the energy, might not always be what lives in the heart of the performer. This story is more personal than I have seen from biopics in recent years (with perhaps the exception of Bohemian Rhapsody).

I loved the telling of the story that isn’t hindered by anything other than White giving us a nosedive into where Springsteen was at that time in his life. Wanting to create something that would last instead of what can be listened to and forgotten after a few plays, all of that came at a cost – the past. Finding his way forward, the journey was hard, frightening and yet life affirming. We could all use a bit of that at the moment.

In the end – he finds music his way!

 

Celebrating a 50th is THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW

 

Jeri Jacquin

This week on 4K HD, Bluray and Digital from director Jim Sharman and 20^th Century Studios comes a film celebrating its 50^th Anniversary and remains the longest-running theatrical release in film history is THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW.

At the wedding of their friends, Brad Major (Barry Bostwick) and Janet Weiss (Susan Sarandon) have a celebratory moment and decide they need to go see their teacher Dr. Scott (Jonathan Adams) who is the reason they met. Along the way, a strong storm makes their drive a bit dangerous but even more so is when their car blows a tire (I knew I should have gotten that tire fixed – B). Wondering what to do, he remembers a castle a bit back and the couple make their way to the light in the fireplace.

Greeted at the door by Riff Raff (Richard O’Brien), they are invited in and meet domestic Magenta (Patricia Quinn). Brad seems to be casual about the strangeness around them but Janet has her bad thing-senses tingling as she should. They are both startled by the arrival of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry) who invites the couple into his lab to see what’s on the slab. Escorted by the unimpressed Columbia (Little Nell), all arrive at the lab to hear that the scantily clad Dr. is about to create his own personal Rocky (Peter Hinwood).

Just when he’s found his joy, it is all interrupted by Eddie (Meat Loaf) who has a few bars to sing to the glee of Columbia. But, all good things come to the dinner table, including Dr. Scott who shows up looking for someone but Frank, Magenta and Riff Raff are about to turn all their worlds inside out considering it is all upside down already!

Curry as Dr. Frank-N-Furter is disarming, charming, hilarious and underhanded but does it all with perfect makeup and heels. There is no doubt that no one but Curry could have ever played this role and to think otherwise is pure insanity. His performance felt then and now as if he embodied this role to the hilt. Starting this role on stage before it ever hit screen, it was extremely smart to put that expressive face on the big screen.

Sarandon as Janet is naïve, also charming, endearing and a bit of a vixen for sure. Watching her character go from Gidget (Goggle it kids) to a bit of Elvira is touching (yes, I said it) in all the best ways possible. I love that Sarandon embraces what she did all those years ago and even finds humor in what they accomplished. Bostwick as Brad is just an oblivious male portraying a bit of machismo but doesn’t hesitate to be corrupted for absolute pleasure. Bostwick just jumped right in and his final outfit needs to be totally applauded because, if anything else, he looked damn good in it.

O’Brien as Riff Raff is a disgruntled handyman upset that the candy man hadn’t shown up according to his master. The reality is, he isn’t happy in the castle and putting up with Frank’s nonsense is pushing him to the limits. I just love O’Brien’s portrayal and as the creator of the play and knowing the history behind it there is one thing to say – he is a mad genius. Quinn as Magenta is a domestic that isn’t quite as domestic as one would hope. I mean I couldn’t have her cleaning my house no matter how well she dances. She watches, listens and waits but also has a good time being bad. I just love her character. Little Nell as Columbia is colorful, a spitfire, and more opinionated that she probably should be. The love of a motorcycle man is something she hasn’t gotten over and why should she. That being said, she is torn between Eddie and Frank so there’s that.

Adams as Dr. Scott is a scientist in his own right and clearly knows that Frank is up to something. The problem is, once inside the castle lair, he has his own story to tell and don’t let the wheelchair fool you. Meat Loaf as Eddie might have a small role but it is a showstopper and I just absolutely loved it. Nothing better than a motorcycle man who can play the sax after bursting out of a freezer. Well done sir! Hinwood as Rocky is there as total cute gold-colored undies decoration with no lines whatsoever yet, there wouldn’t be a story if he wasn’t there. I mean, his name IS in the title of the film.

Shout out to Charles Gray as the criminologist for not only telling the tale step by step but jumping up on a desk to dance to the Time Warp. Absolute fire!

Other cast include Jeremy Newson as Ralph Hapschatt and Hilary Labow as Betty Monroe. Unconventional conventionalists include Perry Bedden, Christopher Biggins, Gaye Brown, Ishaq Brux, Stephen Calcutt, Hugh Cecil, Imogene Claire, Tony Cowan, Sadie Corre, Frank Fullenwider, Lindsay Ingram, Peggy Ledger, Annabel Leventon, Anthony Milner, Pamela Obermeyer, Tony Then, Kimi Wong, Henry Woolf and Rufus Collins.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.20thcenturystudios.com.

What can be said about THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW that hasn’t been said by anyone who was there from the beginning. First, let me say the perfection companion to this film is Linus O’Brien’s documentary STRANGE JOURNEY: The Story of Rocky Horror because it literally takes fans through the creative process of his father Richard O’Brien’s ideas and how it finally came to the big screen.

My sister Ellen and I spent most of the 1975 and 1976 at the Strand Theatre in Ocean Beach. Our Friday and Saturday nights were spent standing in line enjoying the sights, sounds and camaraderie there was to be had waiting to get into the theatre. People dressing up and dressing down, bringing props (like rice for the wedding scenes) and gearing up to yell back at the screen some of the most infamous comebacks that are still uttered to this day. One of the best memories was talking our dad into seeing the film with us. Now, granted, it really wasn’t a 1970’s parents cup of tea but he went open minded and, I think, curious as to what we were always up to so late on a Friday night. After what I am sure was an initial shock of it all, he saw us having fun – REAL fun. Not out causing trouble, not doing anything wrong, just being in a theatre with a huge crowd of our closest friends singing, dancing, throwing rice and yelling at the screen. Afterwards we went for breakfast and he laughed at how giddy the film made us. He never said he hated the film or was against the film, no, instead, he thought we were nutty (we were) but never had a problem with us seeing it again and again.

That’s what THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW did for us, gave us a weird and fantastic freedom that it also gave so many others. Returning again and again to share an experience with strangers in a way that is so very memorable. Every person in the theatre was able to be who they wanted to be – you like Frank? Full of Frank. You like Magenta? Full on Magenta. It didn’t matter because every person accepted every person for their reasons, their costumes and how so very cool it was to be part of something as extraordinary as the film was.

Released in August of 1975 – here we are 50 years later and although most of us that were in theatres in 1975 couldn’t possibly do the Time Warp again, a new generation is discovering Frank and the gang in their own unique way thanks to THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW now available on so many platforms. I do feel a bit sorry for them though; they will never know the joy of being pelted by rice!

In the end – let’s do the time warp again!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MASTER AND COMMANDER: The Far Side of the World

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Digital and Bluray for the first time ever from director Peter Weir and 20^th Century Studios is the epic ocean story of MASTER AND COMMANDER: The Far Side of the World.

It is 1905 and Captain Jack Aubrey (Russell Crowe) is heading his ship HMS Surprise. After an attack by the French ship Acheron, Captain Aubrey is making repairs at sea but not before being attacked again. The race is on to keep the enemy away from British ships so the captain heads for the Galapagos Islands. The ships surgeon Stephen Maturin (Paul Bettany) is thrilled at the prospect to be able to collect specimens from the island to study and record along with the young Lord Blakeney (Max Pirkis).

Reaching the islands, Captain Aubrey, First Lt. Pullings (James D’Arcy) and crew are surprised to see a dingy of men who were attacked by Acheron and managed to escape. Ready to go after the enemy again, the seas aren’t on their side as the crew begins to grumble about their predicament. After an accident, Aubrey returns to the island giving the men a brief respite. What the captain and crew could have never expected was what comes next. What the enemy never saw coming was an experienced captain and crew who never gave up!

Crowe as Captain Aubrey has a reputation on the high seas as a man who knows how to sail, even in dangerous waters and being chased enemies. The crew hold him in high esteem and follow his orders because they trust him completely. Now that they are chasing the French enemy ship, Crowe gives his character of Aubrey intelligence to outwit his enemy one moment while still being able to care for his crew with equal intensity. It is hard for some members of his crew to understand him, but Crowe’s performance had me raising an eyebrow whenever a crew member stepped a toe out of line. I just love this film period but Crowe’s performance always brings me back to the film again and again.

Bettany as Maturin is the ships surgeon that sees more of the effects of fighting side of war on the high seas. Caring for the men is most important to him but in his off hours he dives into the world of flora, fauna and animals he is excited to see in the Galapagos. He takes Lord Blakeney under his wing when he discovers that they share a curiosity for all things nature and science but also has the respect of the crew. He tells Aubrey straight, even if it causes tension between friends and I liked that about his character. Bettany has comes such a long way in his career but I have to say I enjoy characters he portrays with a bit of spunk.  

D’Arcy as Pullings keeps a close watch on Aubrey and learns everything he can. He wants one day to captain a ship of his own but learns how difficult, challenging and frightening it can be. What I enjoyed about Pullings character is that in the beginning there is such hesitation but man, when he gets an emotional rush from the captains’ speeches and actions, he just comes out cannons blazing. Pirkis as Blakeney is a kid doing grown up things in a time of war where there are thing happening that a child shouldn’t see in the form of wounded and death. Yet, I can imagine that this is how Captain Aubrey was at that age – wise, strong and curious.

Other cast include Edward Woodall as 2^nd Lt. Mowett, Chris Larkin as Captain Howard, Robert Pugh as John Allen, Lee Ingleby as Holom, Max Benitz as 3^rd Lt. Calamy, Richard McCabe as Mr, Higgins, Ian Mercer as Mr. Hollar, David Threlfall as Killick, Bryan Dick as Nagle, Mark Lewis Jones as Mr. Hogg and Billy Boyd as Barrett Bronden.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.20thcenturystudios.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.

Bonus Features include Delete Scenes, Historical and Geographical Trivia Track and Pop-Up Map.

MASTER AND COMMANDER: The Far Side of the World 4K Ultra HD Bluray release is housed in a collectible two-disc SteelBook set, featuring striking, navy-and-gold nautical artwork that reflects the film’s epic scale and maritime themes. The exterior showcases a richly detailed compass rose and a bold illustration of Captain “Lucky Jack” Aubrey, while the interior reveals a sweeping ocean vista with Russell Crowe poised against story seas – offering fans the ultimate collector’s edition.

Newly restored and remastered from the original elements, this stunning 4K release is presented with Dolby Vision HDR and Atmos audio delivering breathtaking pictures and immersive sound offering fans the definitive home viewing experience of the acclaimed epic.

Crowe, Bettany, D’Arcy, Pirkis and the entire cast made this film the epic memorable film that it is. Bringing the intensity of war on the seas, away from home and limited in help if anything were to go wrong, everything falls to the Captain and Crowe carries that weight to perfection. The cinematography is equally brilliant and director Weir knew exactly how he wanted the film to look and made it come to life. Twenty-two years ago, MASTER AND COMMANDER The Far Side of the World hit theatres and today the film is still as epic.

In the end – Captain and crew are ready for battle!

He is THE AMATEUR

 

Jeri Jacquin

This week on Digital and coming to Bluray and 4k Ultra HD from director James Hawes and 20^th Century Studios is a man who is THE AMATEUR. 

Charlie Heller (Rami Malek) is sending his wife Sarah (Rachel Brosnahan) off to a conference in Europe while he goes to his job at the CIA as a cryptographer. Getting straight to work, his job is secretive but he is good at it. When he is called into the office of boss Director Moore (Holt McCallany) and Director O’Brien (Julianne Nicholson) where he is told that his wife has died and Charlie is horrified. Almost immediately he begins his work discovering what happened, how and who is responsible. Bringing it up to his superiors, he makes it clear that all Charlie wants is to handle the situation himself.

When they don’t approve, he is sent Hendo Henderson (Laurence Fishburne) to give him some help in what he is planning to do. While Training, Henderson makes it clear that some people just aren’t simply capable of killing. While he is away, Moore is attempting to discover what Charlie might know and tear his house and office apart. They want to know what is he doing with the information but they obviously don’t understand what Charlie can do. His intelligence gives him the edge as he manages to slip away from everyone and follow the trail to Europe. There, he finally meets contact Inquiline (Cailtriona Balfe) who does her best to help find those responsible for Sarah’s death.

The trail is brutal and full of secrets that go deeper than Charlie could ever have imagined. When CIA operative O’Brien (Jon Bernthal) attempts to wrangle him in, he once again knows how to slip the boundaries they attempt to place on him. No matter how much the CIA uses its technology, they forgot one thing – Charlie created that technology!

Malek as Charlie is a man devastated by the loss of his wife and disgusted by the CIA’s lack of action. Deciding that if they won’t do anything, he will use all he has learned as an analyst play out in the real world. Malek plays a grieving husband but, when his character goes rogue, he does so in such a calm manner. The Agency thinks they are able to corral him but you can’t capture someone who you’ve always underrated. This is such an awesome character for him to play and adds a layer of thrill with the combination of political, psychological and action in the vein of THE BOURNE IDENTITY (2002) among so many others. Malek has cemented his place in that line up.

McCallany as Moore is a stern character who can not get Charlie to understand that there are things at play that he doesn’t know about. Once Charlie goes rogue, he is not only dealing with that, but feeling the breath of Director O’Brien all over his neck. I have come to so appreciate McCallany’s body of work and I just love his strong characters. Nicholson as Director O’Brien understands that Charlie is devastated and enlists the help of Moore to keep their noses clean. She gets the suspicion that Charlie isn’t going to let the death of his wife go unanswered. Nicholson always plays such a strong character and it is the same here.

Fishburne as Henderson attempts to train Charlie but also realizes that training him to kill someone just isn’t working. He is impressed by that Charlie can do but it doesn’t mean it will help him with his goal. Fishburne is just that – Fishburne. A consummate actor who can do any role you put in front of him. This isn’t a large role but it is a good one. Bernthal as O’Brien sees Charlie as a friend and wants to help but so people you just can’t get to understand and Charlie is one of them. Again, the role isn’t a large one but keep you spidey senses on high alert.

Balfe as Inquiline is someone that Charlie has been in contact with for a while but never in person. When he arrives in Europe, it is Balfe’s character that guides him in the direction he needs to go. I just love seeing Balfe as I am a huge fan of OUTLANDER and here she begins to separate herself from that role and onto something thriller in another genre.

Other cast includes Adrian Martinez as Carlos, Marc Rissman as Mishka Blazhic, Joseph Millson as Ellish, Barbara Probst as Gretchen Frank, Alice Hewkin as Ali Park and Henry Garrett as the Chief of Staff. Look for the cameo of Marthe Keller who starred in the 1981 film as Elizabeth.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.fox.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.

Bonus Features include The Team, The World, The Pool, The Score, and Deleted Scenes.

Robert Littrell specialized in espionage novel having been a journalist and novelist writing about the spy world of the CIA. He wrote the screenplay before the novel with the title The Amateur: A Novel of Revenge in 1981.

Malek, having played a Bond Villain in the 2021 film NO TIME TO DIE gets the opportunity to play the other side of a thriller and proves he can do both. In the role of Charlie Heller, he is as smooth as they come, smarter than his superiors could ever have imagined and determined to do what the agency won’t. He has no problem using his intelligence and abilities to keep everyone at arm’s length until he finishes what he started. Just brilliantly done.

The cast brings so much to the political table with secrets, mysteries, lies, no trusting and, best of all, no idea who they are dealing with. I love that part of the film as each thing Charlie pulls off, there is someone in the background shaking his head in disbelief. That makes watching so much more enjoyable because rooting for Charlie is what it is all about. Nothing or no one is going to stop the inevitable.

In the end – do not underestimate him!

The Thrill in Space with ALIEN: Romulus

 

Jeri Jacquin

Now on Digital (Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango at Home) and coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and DVD from writer/director Fede Alvarez and 20^th Century Studios is the science fiction thriller that comes from a legacy with ALIEN: Romulus.

It is 2142 and Rain (Cailee Spaeny) is a young girl trying to make it on her own in the Jackson’s Star LV-410 mining community taking care of her brother Andy (David Jonsson). After being forced to work under a contract wo the Weyland-Yutani company, Rain is angry that they have extended her contract when all she wants to do is go to the planet Yvaga. That’s when she received a call from ex-boyfriend Tyler (Archie Renaux) who wants her and Andy, along with sister Kay (Isabela Merced), Bjorn (Spike Fearn), and Navarro (Aileen Wu) to head to an abandoned ship to get cryostasis chambers that will help them get to Yvaga.

Of course they need Andy to make their personal mission work. Why? Because Andy can talk to the computer system on the ship and help them get the cryo-chambers. The idea is to get in and get out quickly before the ship falls into a destructive orbit. Agreeing, Rain, Tyler, Andy and the crew take off in the Corbelan IV to meet up with the abandoned ship and discover there are two sections called Romulus and Remus.

After a few miscalculations, they are learning as they go but not soon enough to release something deadly into the ship. They find a synthetic named Rook (Daniel Betts) who tells them that he has a prime directive and is loyal to the company. Rook is completely honest with the crew when something is happening to Navarro but Bjorn decides Navarro, Kay and the situation to take matters into his own hands. When the Corbelan spins out of control, it crashes into the ship’s dock and those inside are now susceptible to what is taking over the ship.

Andy has the idea that to get to the part of the ship that can help them, Rain and Tyler are told they must control themselves to walk through more of the xenomorphs. Rook is sending them to retrieve a compound that the company wants but when things become out of control, Rain takes over and does what she needs to helping to take out as many survivors as possible. Finding the fight in her, Rain isn’t about to go down easy!

Spaeny as Rain is a young woman who is trying to do right by adoptive brother Andy. Trying to start a new life on another planet, teaming up with Tyler seems to be the only way left. Frustrated about the extension of her contract, Rain has to make decisions that are now going to put her face to face with horror. Spaeny gives us a strong, empathetic yet very smart character and following in Sigourney Weaver’s footsteps, she does an excellent job to the very last frame.

Jonsson as Andy is a synthetic who has found a home with Rain. She takes care of him and when things go wrong, she is always there to turn the key. Jonsson gives us a tad different perspective of a synthetic showing care for one person even if it is his directive. Taking on this incarnation, Jonsson does an extremely good job of giving fans someone to root for besides Rain. Renaux as Tyler also wants to start a new life on Yvaga but also knows he needs something Rain has. Gathering his crew together to make the decision to go, he leads and fights for them all.

Fearn as Bjorn has a chip on his shoulder against Andy and does not try to hide it in the least little bit. Merced as Kay has a secret of her own that is so explosive (sorry, had to) but in a way fans are not going to expect. Wu as Navarro gets the opportunity to be the chest bursting victim because what would an ALIEN’s film be without it.

Huge shout-out to Betts as Rook because the way they bring Ian Holmes original character of Ash through Rook is stunning with the AI and, in a weird way, I was happy to see him!

Twentieth Century Studios Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.20thcenturystudios.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.

Bonus Features include Return to Horror: Crafting Alien: Romulus, The Director’s Vision, Creating the Story, Casting the Faces, Constructing the World, Inside the Xenomorph Showdown, Alien: A Conversation, and Alternate/Extended Scenes.

An added note is that the original 1979 sci-fi thriller, ALIEN, is celebrating its 45^th anniversary this year. Fans can experience the terror in a 2-movie collection digital bundle (Alien & Alien: Romulus) on October 15 in 4K UHD, HD and SD.

Remembering vividly the first time I saw ALIEN in 1979, it was mind jolting because it was a new way to look at a thriller with space being the “box” this is all happening in. There was no where for Ripley, or anyone on the Nostromo, to run! The creation of a new cold, calculating and acid blood alien was and still is absolutely stunning in every way. Since then, any fan of ALIEN has followed each story that has come about and flocked to theatres to see them.

This new cast has given us another look at the space-horror-thrill but added easter eggs that are not hidden at all. They are there and when something works as effectively as they have from other films in the franchise, then use it right? The face-to-face scene between the xenomorph and Rain is an absolute classic scene as a nod to the original scene in ALIEN. Things like that just draw fans in and we are here for it. I’m thinking, it’s an ALIEN franchise binge weekend because ALIEN: Romulus is up on space deck!

In the end – in space no one can hear you!

The Origins of THE FIRST OMEN

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Digital with Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu and Hulu followed by the Bluray and DVD release in July from writer/director Arkasha Stevenson and 20^th Century Studios is THE FIRST OMEN.

In Rome, young novitiate Margaret (Nell Tiger Free) arrives in the city during a time of unrest in 1971. She goes to the Vizzardeli Orphanage to meet Cardinal Lawrence (Bill Nighy), Father Gabriel (Tawfeek Barhom) and the Abbess Sister Silva (Sonia Braga). Being shown around, she takes it upon herself to go into a room where another young girl, Carlita (Nicole Sorace), is be touted as a strange girl.

Not sure what to make of it, she dismisses it being taken to her apartment she is sharing with another novitiate Luz (Maria Cabellero). That night Luz convinces Margaret to go to a club where she quickly meets Paolo and they dance together. The next morning, she wakes up and hardly remembers anything that happened after that.

Back at the orphanage, Margaret spends time with Carlita but is warned off by Father Brennan (Ralph Ineson) as he says bad things happen around the young girl. Brennan wants to meet with Margaret so he can tell her about a power within the church that wants to bring the Antichrist to power and that Carlita is the aim at that. He also wants her to look into the Abbess’ files if she doesn’t believe him.

That is when things begin to turn for the worst. Playing on her anxieties, Margaret finds herself in the midst of madness. When Father Gabriel gets her to Brennan, they begin to realize that what they thought was happening is focused on the one person who has been oblivious to the religious game being played.

Free as Margaret does a darn good job of portraying a naïve young novitiate who has been raised in the church to trust those around her. Coming to the orphanage, she is excited to work among the children in their care. From the moment she arrived, there is something in the air that she doesn’t quite understand and Free portrays that well.

Ineson as Father Brennan is the one who clearly understands what is happening but, to say it out loud almost sounds a bit crazy. Reaching out to Margaret is the only way to get her to understand the dangers. Ineson gives us this twitchy priest who wants to stop what has started. Sorace as Carlita doesn’t have much to say verbally but her face shows everything and that is a talent. Trust the looks you see in this character!

Nighy as Cardinal Lawrence has been keeping an eye on young Margaret since she was a child and feel protective over her. I just love Nighy’s ability to play almost every kind of role possible, I don’t think there is one performance I have not thought amazing, this one is no exception. Braga as Sister Silva just freaked me out from start to finish, if I was in Catholic school as a kid she would probably have scared me straight with a single glance!

Shout out to Barhom as Father Gabriel, his role is a small one but important to Margaret’s story.

Other cast include Charles Dance as Father Harris, Ishtar Currie-Wilson as Sister Angelica, Andrea Arcangeli as Paolo, Eva Stevic Ras as the angry nun and Rachel Hurd-Wood as Katherine Thorn.

Twentieth Century Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.20thcenturystudios.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.

Bonus Features include The Mystery of Margaret – Join director Arkasha Stevenson and stars Nell Tiger Free, Bill Nighy and Maria Caballero as they dive into the character of Margaret, her relationships with other characters, and how she’s manipulated while trying to solve the film’s horrifying mystery, The Director’s Vision – Director Arkasha Stevenson talks about her love of horror films, the opportunity to expand on The Omen legacy, and crafting The First Omen entirely through a female lens. She also describes shooting in Rome, and the cast recounts working with Arkasha.

Also, Signs of The First Omen – Join the director and talented artists as they reveal some of the symbolism within the set designs and the costumes. Learn how the use of practical effects blurs the line between what is real and what is not in The First Omen’s terrifying world.

THE FIRST OMEN is a bit predictable but, it does lay the groundwork to the following Omen films which is nice. They didn’t try to reinvent the wheel here but instead stayed grounded to the story as it was laid out in the 1976 Richard Donner film and even a well-placed nod comes in at the end. I don’t mind an origin story in the slightest as long as it is well done and doesn’t forget where it came from so to speak. There is a bit of a twist here as well that leaves the door slightly cracked open for the imagination.

The images, as you would imagine, are pretty darn graphic as the story begins to unfold. I won’t lie, I did a bit of a jaw drop at a certain birthing scene and ended up with my hands across my eyes peeking through the fingers like a kid. Watching this at night in a dark room added the cherry on the top of spooky so I highly recommend trying the film that way. For horror genre fans, this might be a nice sway away from the norm so jump right in.

In the end – create something to fear!

 

THE CREATOR

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming this week to theatres from writer/director Gareth Edwards and 20th Century Studios is the future when they are all looking for THE CREATOR.

Joshua (John David Washington) is a happy man living on a remote tropical island with his love Maya (Gemma Chan). Expecting their first child, it is the calm of the island and the sound of the waves that keeps them happy. But this is the future and A.I. has become a serious issue and after a horrific incident in Los Angeles, the A.I. are being hunted by the hundreds. The military and their leaders are looking for Nirata, the one responsible for creating more of the A.I.

When it becomes clear that Joshua has a plan, Maya tries to escape the island with the military led by Colonel Howell (Allison Janney) closing in for destruction. Taking Joshua to Los Angeles, he now has the job of cleaning up the A.I. that are destroyed. He is then approached General Andrews (Ralph Ineson) and Howell wanting help in finding the location of the Nirmata and his chance to see Maya once again. They want the secret weapon they believe will control all A.I. and destroy the human race.

Who Joshua discovers is Alphie (Madeleine Yuna Voyles), a young A.I. who knows where Maya is. During a fire fight, they are rescued by Harun (Ken Watanabe) who begins to see a connection between Joshua and Alphie but there is no time as Howell and bulldog McBride (Marc Menchaca) are not going to let them get away. Jumping from place to place, everyone is looking for elusive Nirmata.

It is up to Joshua and Alphie to stop the military from their continual destruction, the same destruction they blame on the A.I.’s.

Washington as Joshua is a man on a mission, but what mission might that be? In a world that has turned itself upside down, the question becomes who is the good guy and who should be feared? Joshua’s only goal in all of the goings on is to find his love Maya, but along the way he learns what the truths are and his goal is to once again protect love. I enjoyed Washington’s performance given that most of his time is spend running.

Voyles as Alphie is charming and probably smarter than everyone else around her. Although this character is filled with emotion, Alphie manages to overcome the urge to react to them in a way that is destructive. The youngling sees the best and worst the world has to offer and responds in kind. Voyles is captivating as Alphie and enjoyable to watch her take this role and make it her own.

Janney as Col. Howell is exactly what you would expect from a psycho military colonel who will use any manipulation possible to get results. She is twisted, hard and doesn’t mind shooting anything that gets in her way. Janney has the uncanny ability to choose characters that are multi-dimensional but this character has one goal – destruction.

Chan as Maya is Joshua’s love and spent her childhood being raised by A.I. She supports their cause and will do anything to help them. Chan knows a bit about A.I. acting as Mia in the 2012-18 series HUMANS. Menchaca as McBride is the mirror image of Col. Howell wanting to wreak havoc and destruction all in the name of ‘humanity’. Ineson as Andrews is the dark horse, almost literally, as we don’t really see his face but instead a hauntingly low growl of orders commanding the human military.

Shout out to Ken Watanabe as Harun as he continues to prove how his presence on screen is so powerful. Personally, I think his eyes show so much depth in the way his characters responds to love, caring, anger, distress and that becomes important in playing this particular role.

Other cast include Sturgill Simpson as Drew, Amar Chadha-Patel as Omni, Robbie Tann as Shipley, Michael Esper as Captain Cotton, Veronica Ngo as Kami, Ian Verdun as Daniels, Daniel Rodriguez as Hardwick, Rad Pereira as Lambert, Syd Skidmore as Bradbury, Karen Aldridge as Dr. Thankey and Teerwat Mulvilai as Boonmee.

Twentieth Century Studios brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to discover what other titles they have please visit www.20thcenturystudios.com.

THE CREATOR is a futuristic look at the complicated and destructive behavior driven by the fears of humanity toward their own creations. The concept and characters of the story, however, aren’t new. Watching the film, I can easily see the influences of STAR WARS (1977), THE GOLDEN CHILD (1986), INDEPENDENCE DAY (1996), A.I. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (2001), AVATAR (2009), ELYSIUM (2013), EX MACHINA (2014), HUMANS (2015) and FINCH (2021) along with so many, many more.

It seems the film mainly shows off it’s ability to creative stunning visuals of machinery and its capability. There are some deep color and emotional filming of what is called ‘New Asia’ from villages to the temples that are very cool. The action sequences are just that, filled with action, chases, and weaponry.

The ‘human’ side of the story mainly comes from those fearful and angry carbon-based units who do not consider A.I.’s to be human at all. There ability to destroy is the main focus of everything that happens in the film. On the flip side are the A.I.’s who make it clear to Joshua what it is they truly want and it is embrace worthy.

Coming in at two hours and thirteen minutes, the ending is a little flat and predictable but it is a wild ride with a few twists and turns. The concept of love, relationships and fighting for what is right come out loud and clear.

In the end - humanity evolves!