DR. STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and Digital and currently on digital from director Sam Raimi, Marvel and Walt Disney Home Entertainment is DR. STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS.

American Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) is being hunted by a demon while looking for the Book of Vishanti and oddly enough is rescued by Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch). Trying to get away, America accidentally brings herself to Earth-616. At the wedding of ex-girlfriend Christine Palmer (Rachel McAdams), Strange has jump into action and rescue America with the help of Sorcerer Supreme Wong (Benedict Wong).

American tries to explain that she has the power to travel through multiverses and that’s why the demons are hunting her. Strange discovers rune markings but knows only one person who would understand them, Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen). The problem is, she is the one responsible for America’s problems after getting the Darkhold, she is now the Scarlet Witch.

She believes that taking America’s powers will bring her back to sons Billy and Tommy. Dr. Strange refuses to let him have the girl and that’s when the Scarlet Witch attacks the Kamar-Taj. In the midst of it, America and Dr. Strange transport to Earth-838. There, Karl Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor) who is the Sorcerer Supreme in this version of Earth, takes Dr. Strange as a prisoner believing it is for the best.

When America and Dr. Strange confront the Scarlet Witch, but it is when Maximoff sees what she has become through her children’s eyes is their hope that the madness will stop!

Cumberbatch as Dr. Strange returns to his cloak and attitude except this time there are more of him to deal with. I have to say that it seems Cumberbatch is having a great time even though the story is an intense one. Gomez as America is a young lady that does not know the extent of her own powers but soon will. She gives a fast-paced performance in a story that is very complex.

Olsen as Maximoff is terrifying in this incarnate of her role but then again when last we saw her, the world she had made for herself was falling apart. Her anger is getting the better of her and everyone in her way will feel that wrath. Olsen gives an amazing performance and I thoroughly enjoyed watching this character that lives in pain and only sees revenge.

Wong as Sorcerer Supreme helps Strange even though every fiber of his being knows that is going to be trouble and chaos. I love watching him in this role. Ejiofor as Mordo also has a chance to play his character differently. Being good at hiding the lies and getting his hands on Strange (no matter what incarnate) is the only way to stop more chaos.

It was great to see Captain Carter, Black Bolt, Captain Marvel and Reed Richards on the screen. I think Krasinski would do a stellar job as Richards as well as Theron as Clea.

Other cast include Jett Klyne as Tommy Maximoff, Julian Hilliard as Billy Maximoff, Michael Stuhlbarg as Dr. Nic West, Hayley Atwell as Captain Carter, Anson Mount as Black Bolt, Lashana Lynch as Captain Marvel, John Krasinski as Reed Richards, Charlize Theron as Clea, Sheila Atim as Sara, Adam Hugill as Rintrah, Bruce Campbell as Pizza Poppa and Patrick Stewart as Professor Charles Xavier.

Bonus Features include Method to the Madness – Join various crew members and Marvel employees in interviews as they discuss their love of Sam Raimi and all the details of DOCTOR STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS that make it quintessentially Raimi, Introducing America Chavez – In this short and fun profile piece, we’ll learn about America’s humble beginnings in the comics. We’ll meet Xochitl Gomez and discuss the complications her character’s unique power presents for the future of the MCU.

Also, Constructing the Multiverse – Writing a feature film for Marvel is no easy task. In this playful yet informative featurette, we’ll dive into the challenges that writer Michael Waldron faced in creating the twisting and turning story of DOCTOR STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS, Gag Reel, Deleted Scenes such as A Great Team, Pizza Poppa, It’s Not Permanent, and Audio Commentary.

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!

DR. STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS lives up to its lengthy title. It is fast paced so keep up and don’t look away from the screen. There is so much unraveling in the story that the intensity goes with a big bowl of popcorn.

Cumberbatch, Gomez, Wong and Olsen bring the story out slowly and the answers are not always what we would expect. Especially since there are different universes with different stories about Strange. Enjoy watching it all come together with vivid special effects as well!

In the end – enter a new dimension of strange!

Webbing onto Bluray is SPIDER-MAN: No Way Home

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray, DVD and Digital from director Jon Watts and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment brings a whole new look at SPIDER-MAN: No Way Home.

The world has turned upside down since Quentin Beck/Mysterio announced to the world that Peter Parker (Tom Holland) is Spider-Man. Now, he is followed by media, cell phones and helicopters now being called a bad guy. Peter turns to girlfriend MJ (Zendaya), Ned (Jacob Batalon), Aunt May (Marisa Tomei) and Happy (Jon Favreau) for help, especially when the Department of Damage Control raids their house.

Trying to find control of his life, Peter and friend return to school but even then, things are bad. Especially when all three receive word that Pater is accepted to MIT but not MJ or Ned. Thinking he might have an answer, he goes to Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) hoping he turn time back to change everything. Reluctantly agreeing to help, Strange starts a spell but is constantly interrupted by Peter. As the spell starts to get out of hand, the good Doctor has to now contain it!

Going to an administrator for reconsideration, he is attacked by none other than Otto Octavius/Doctor Octopus (Alfred Molina), soon after by Norman Osborn/Green Goblin (Willem Dafoe)! Strange has to step in once again telling Peter that they all have to be put in a protective cell where Dr. Curt Connors/Lizard (Rhys Ifans) is already waiting. But they all want the box and Peter has to make sure they do not get their hands on it.

MJ and Ned are helping Peter as they also find Max Dillon/Electro (Jamie Foxx) and Flint Marko/Sandman (Thomas Haden Church). Osborn attacks the building where Peter and Aunt May are staying and where Peter is trying to help the others before they go back to their own place in time and now as the battle heats up. As Ned uses the sling ring, they try to find Peter and instead they find alternate Parkers!

Now the Statue of Liberty becomes the place where good and evil takes a stand and Peter must make a decision that will completely change his life!

Holland as Peter Parker has once again proven why he was the perfect choice to pick up the Spiderman mantle. He definetly handle the motional parts of this young man’s life but is also quick and seems to be having, well, fun in his role. Bringing three universes together is difficult enough but Holland makes it look flawless.

Cumberbatch as Dr. Strange has also made his role look seamless. Quick witted and cool, he is not thrilled about helping Parker, but he does see what it is that the young man is trying to accomplish. Cumberbatch makes Strange so cool and a character that did not really have my attention before, got it!

Dafoe as Norman Osborn/Green Goblin is caught up between his two personalities and now confused by the world that he has been brought to. Trying to fight the evil, Dafoe jumps between his two characters as easily as his character does through the universes. Molina as Otto Octavius/Doctor Octopus discovers that he has the chance to be released from the madness and likes it.

Church as Flint Marko/Sandman brings the sand and the confusion between what happened in his own universe and not liking being told what to do in this one. Foxx as Max Dillon/Electro returns with the same bad attitude and need for power as he ever did. Ifans as Dr. Curt Connors/Lizard just wants out and to get the box that could potentially hold him back again.

Other cast include Angourie Rice as Betty Brant, J.K. Simmons asJ. Jonah Jameson, Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock, Benedict Wong as Wong, Arian Moayed as DODC Cleary, Mary Rivera as Grandma, Andrew Garfield and Toby Maguire as Peter Parker.

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment encompasses motion picture production for television, digital content and theater releases. The studios include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films and Sony Picture Classics. To see what is coming to theaters and to home entertainment please visit www.sonypictures.com.

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.

SPIDER-MAN: No Way Home is a fast-paced film filled with characters that are recognizable with their own stories making the story easy to follow. They all have their issues of anger and resentment but there is a divide. Some of them want to be ‘normal’ and some want more power.

Realizing that he might have made a mistake, the cost of it all is beginning to show and instead of doing it all himself, Peter realizes it is about helping one another for the best outcome. The last half hour of the film is pretty darn cool and brings the multi-verse close to collapse. Of course, young Parker makes the ultimate decision that leaves the fabric of time open for another story to be told.

In the end – this is where universes collide!

THE ELECTRICAL LIFE OF LOUIS WAIN

 Jeri Jacquin

Coming from writer/director Will Sharpe, writer Simon Stephenson and Amazon Original Films is the unique story with THE ELECTRICAL LIFE OF LOUIS WAIN.

Louis (Benedict Cumberbatch) is an Edwardian artist and illustrator living in London who can in a moment’s notice create art work drawings of animals. Taking care of his sisters, he has to deal with the bossy and emotionally undermining sister Caroline Wain (Andrea Riseborough). When Sir William Ingram (Toby Jones) offers Wain a position of illustrating for his paper.

Accepting the position, he has time for little else. When governess Emily (Claire Foy) becomes part of the very busy household, it is the first time that Louis feels something so strong for someone outside his family. His world changes when he decides to marry the lovely Emily and they move into the country to be together.

Still taking care of his family in the city, Louis is continually working. When he and Emily discover a young kitten in their garden and name it Peter, something wonderful begins to happen. Louis finds inspiration and everything changes as the drawings become an instant sensation.

When Emily becomes ill, his life shifts once again. The emotional turmoil sends Louis through a period where nothing feels right. Even his theory about electricity going from person to person transforming them was not helping him or his sister who is eventually confined to an asylum.

His own personal spiral is filled with pain, anguish and cats.

Cumberbatch as Wain manages to, with ease, give his character the right amount of innocence mixed in the emotional instability. The pressures of being entirely responsible for a family, it is clear that there were issues in the family as seen with his own sister. When Cumberbatch is on the screen with Foy, something amazing happens. There is a spark that is joyous because Wain had the one thing he did not get at home – love and acceptance.

Foy as Emily is delightful, pragmatic and knows exactly what it is that her husband needs in the way of support. There life away from his family is filled with smiles, love and even laughter, especially when a little ball of fuzz makes its way into their lives. Treating Percy like a child, they lavish all the love and affection parents would.

Riseborough as Caroline has emotional issues of her own ranging from anger at her brother’s lack of financials to anger of his marriage to Emily and just general unhappiness with life. Consistently putting pressure on Louis, Riseborough does not pull any punches in her performance to the point of even having me wide eyes and jaw dropped.

Other cast include Jamie Demetriou as Richard Woodville, Indica Watson as young Felcie, Cassia McCarthy as young Claire, Sophia Di Martino as Judith, Taika Waititi as Max Kase, Dorothy Atkinson as Mrs. DuFrayne, Nick Cave as H.G. Wells, Daniel Rigby as Bendigo,  and Oliva Colman as the Narrater.

Amazon Prime offers television shows and original content included in its Amazon Prime subscription. Original programs such as CARNIVAL ROW, THE MAN IN THE HIGH CASTLE, and THE MARVELOUS MRS. MAISEL are hit shows. Coming soon is the next series with GOLIATH starring Billy Bob Thornton and it promises to another successful and intense series.

Wain did not only do drawings of cats, he also did country scenes and drew for Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News to The Illustrated London News. It was in 1886 that the later published a drawing called “A Kittens’ Christmas Party”. Over his lifetime he would illustrate children’s books and did work for magazines, papers and postcards.

Cumberbatch is able to capture the financial problems that Wain had throughout his life. Constantly exploited, he was unaware of the financial losses he would take because of no copyright. Even going to the United States, he was met with an audience who did not understand his way of thinking.

Eventually he would be hospitalized where he would spend his days trying to find the peace that had avoided him in life. H. G. Wells said, “he has made the cat his own. He invented a cat style, a cat society, a whole cat world. English cats that do not look and live like Louis Wain cats are ashamed of themselves.”

THE ELECTRICAL LIFE OF LOUIS WAIN is beautiful done with costuming and set designs that adds to the story. Cumberbatch gives the performance of a man who had an amazing and stunning talent but hindered by a condition that clearly could not be accurately diagnosed or treated correctly.

Adding Foy into the mix, even if her performance could be considered brief, gives us a look at the life Wain could never have imagined for himself. These two on screen brought a chemistry that is mesmerizing to watch.

For anyone who knows the work of Wain or even loves cats – just remember that this is the man responsible for giving cats a homelife, for becoming more than mice catchers but instead becoming furry and purring members of our families.

In the end – he saw something no one else did.

 

THE COURIER Learns About Spying on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from director Dominic Cooke, Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate Home Entertainment comes the story of country, secrets and spying when you are THE COURIER.

Greville Wynne (Benedict Cumberbatch) is a hard-working British engineer and businessman who travels extensively to keep wife Sheila (Jessie Buckley) and their son Andrew (Keir Hills) provided for. It is a struggle with the constant fear of the Cold War and Khrushchev (Vladimir Chuprikov) as agencies struggle to get information.

Emily Donovan (Rachel Brosnahan) from the FBI enlists the help of MI6 and Bertrand (Anton Lesser) to work together. Especially since Russian Oleg Penkovsky (Merab Ninidze) has reached out wanting to give them Russian secrets. Donovan and Bertrand reach out to Wynne with the proposition of being the courier.

At first Wynne is hesitant worrying about his wife and young son but are assured that if there is any danger, he would be immediately removed from the situation. Not being a part of the government offers him some cover. On his first trip to Moscow, he meets Oleg and a relationship begins. As the exchanges happen, a friendship also grows and at the same time things heat up between the United States and Russia.

When the friendship is put to the test, Wynne will do anything necessary to protect his family and his friend Oleg. Both decisions may cost him everything!

Cumberbatch as Wynne who is an average British citizen enjoying his work and returning home to his family. Listening to the radio with a cup of tea is everything in his world. When asked to become a courier, Cumberbatch gives us the other side of a very nervous man who wants to do what is required to keep his country safe. Cumberbatch gives us the right amount of nervous mixed with the right amount of bravery that being a courier took. I loved this role!

Ninidze as Oleg is stunning from the moment he is on the screen to the very strong scene with Wynne when it all comes to a head. Becoming friends with Wynne was probably not something Oleg thought would happen but sharing his love of ballet and even moments with his family bring these two men in a dangerous situation, normal moments as it were. Ninidze gave intense on top of intense and I could not take my gaze off of every movement he made. This is a combination of character calculation and actor calculation, and they equal superb.

Brosnahan as Donovan is a woman who knows what it takes to get the information they need. She pushes hard to get everyone to cooperate, and her pushes bears more fruit than they could ever have imagined. Brosnahan is pure go-getter and each step she takes adds so much to the already intense film. Buckley as Sheila has issues with her husband being gone for long periods and so far away. Their marriage becomes shaky as a result of his secrecy and Buckley plays it strong.

Other cast include James Schofield as Cox, Fred Haig as Lee, Emma Penzina as Nina, Mariya Mironova as Vera, Charles Walter as Illya, and Angus Wright as Dickie Franks.

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

Roadside Attractions has, since it is found in 2003, grossed over $300M and garnered nineteen Academy Award nominations. They have had critical and commercial hits such as MANCHESTER BY THE SEA, BEN IS BACK, BEATRIZ AT DINNER, HELLO MY NAME IS DORIS, WINTER’S BONE and THE COVER as well as so many others. For more information of what Roadside Attractions has to offer please visit www.roadsideattractions.com.

The Special Features are On the Brink: The Making of THE COURIER.

THE COURIER is based on the true story of Grenville Wynne who also write two books. In 1967 with The Man From Moscow and the 1981 book The Man From Odessa. The film takes its time progressing the relationship with the US and MI6 and once Penkovsky is introduced, it is easy to see how these two men put their lives on the line.

Cumberbatch and Ninidze are just sublime in these roles and give the viewer a reason for what each of them does and why. In that alone these two actors give their characters what is needed to keep us riveted in where the story goes and true concern when it all seems to come to a dangerous and inevitable outcome.

Obviously, I am being a little vague because, as with all films I find intriguing, I am a firm believer in seeing those details for yourself. THE COURIER is cinematically outstanding, and the costuming adds to the story being told by director Cooke. A fan of period pieces, films like THE COURIER will always get my undivided attention and high praise.

In the end – he is a businessman turned spy to save us all!

 

The Truth is Exposed by THE MAURITANIAN

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and Digital from director Kevin Macdonald and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment comes the story of a man known as THE MAURITANIAN.

Mohamedou Slahi (Tahar Rahim) has been captured and sent to Guantanamo Bay after the 9/11 attacks on America. He is not told what the charges against him are and lives day to day in a small cell. Nancy Hollander (Jodie Foster) decides to take on his case bringing Teri Duncan (Shailene Woodley) aboard. They head to Guantanamo detention camp to meet Mohamedou.

Their first meeting is tense as he does not have reason to trust two women he does not know. He listens to what they have to say and weighs his options quickly before agreeing to be represented by Hollander. What they do not yet know is that the government has enlisted the help of Lt. Colonel Stuart Couch (Benedict Cumberbatch) to prosecute the case. Couch had lost a friend so he is motivated by emotion.

Hollander tells Mohamedou that he must write down his life and what has happened to him. While that is happening, she and Duncan have gone through everything to be allowed to read all the paperwork since his capture only to discover the government has redacted almost everything. Couch is finding himself in the same predicament as to what Mohamedou was actually being charged with.

As both sides attempt to do their job, it is Mohamedou who relives his worst nightmares at Guantanamo Bay before being allowed to have his say in court.

Foster as Hollander believes in her client to a point. It is his word against the evidence that she has read so far but like most of Foster’s character roles, she keeps going until the answers are clear. This actress has always been at her best when taking on roles of injustice and gives it her own unique take and in this film, it is the same.

Slahi as Mohamedou is a man trying to come to terms with how he got to Guantanamo Bay and how close he came to those who were terrorists. That is how he ended up spending year after year in a place where the questions were the same and so were the answers. Slahi gives his character a bit of standoffishness but that makes perfect sense giving the life and death situation his character is in.

Cumberbatch as Lt. Col. Couch is a man of faith and when the case is brought to him, he thought of his friend who died on 9/11. As the case paperwork comes in, he sees things that are curious and questionable. He realizes that the government is using his friend’s death as a weapon in the conviction arsenal, but his faith would never allow that to happen.

Woodley as Duncan is a young lawyer who is thrilled to help with the case. She enjoys their visits and believes that the wrong done to their client should be made right. Doing everything she can to be part of the process, her beliefs are challenged, and she must make a decision that puts them all at odds.

Other cast includes David Fynn as Kent, Corey Johnson as Bill Seidel, Saamer Usmani as Arjun, Denis Menochet as Emmanuel and Zachary Levi as Neil Buckland.

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.

The Bonus Features of THE MAURITANIAN are Alternate Opening, Deleted Scenes, Behind the Scenes of THE MAURITANIAN and more!

THE MAURITANIAN is a story of a man and the nightmare of Guantanamo Bay. The film dives into every aspect both legally and personally of his experience. At times his memories are disturbing and there are moments where he finds his own emotional and mental escape from everything around him.

At the suggestion of his lawyers, Slahi wrote a book in 2005 and Guantanamo Diary became an international best seller. It was his opportunity to share his experience and attempt to make people aware of what was happening.

In the end – he has a story that needed to be told!

 

 

 

THE COURIER Learns About Spying

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Dominic Cooke and Roadside Attractions comes the story of country, secrets and spying when you are THE COURIER.

Greville Wynne (Benedict Cumberbatch) is a hard-working British engineer and businessman who travels extensively to keep wife Sheila (Jessie Buckley) and their son Andrew (Keir Hills) provided for. It is a struggle with the constant fear of the Cold War and Khrushchev (Vladimir Chuprikov) as agencies struggle to get information.

Emily Donovan (Rachel Brosnahan) from the FBI enlists the help of MI6 and Bertrand (Anton Lesser) to work together. Especially since Russian Oleg Penkovsky (Merab Ninidze) has reached out wanting to give them Russian secrets. Donovan and Bertrand reach out to Wynne with the proposition of being the courier.

At first Wynne is hesitant worrying about his wife and young son but are assured that if there is any danger, he would be immediately removed from the situation. Not being a part of the government offers him some cover. On his first trip to Moscow, he meets Oleg and a relationship begins. As the exchanges happen, a friendship also grows and at the same time things heat up between the United States and Russia.

When the friendship is put to the test, Wynne will do anything necessary to protect his family and his friend Oleg. Both decisions may cost him everything!

Cumberbatch as Wynne who is an average British citizen enjoying his work and returning home to his family. Listening to the radio with a cup of tea is everything in his world. When asked to become a courier, Cumberbatch gives us the other side of a very nervous man who wants to do what is required to keep his country safe. Cumberbatch gives us the right amount of nervous mixed with the right amount of bravery that being a courier took. I loved this role!

Ninidze as Oleg is stunning from the moment he is on the screen to the very strong scene with Wynne when it all comes to a head. Becoming friends with Wynne was probably not something Oleg thought would happen but sharing his love of ballet and even moments with his family bring these two men in a dangerous situation, normal moments as it were. Ninidze gave intense on top of intense and I could not take my gaze off of every movement he made. This is a combination of character calculation and actor calculation and they equal superb.

Brosnahan as Donovan is a woman who knows what it takes to get the information they need. She pushes hard to get everyone to cooperate, and her pushes bears more fruit than they could ever have imagined. Brosnahan is pure go-getter and each step she takes adds so much to the already intense film. Buckley as Sheila has issues with her husband being gone for long periods and so far away. Their marriage becomes shaky as a result of his secrecy and Buckley plays it strong.

Other cast include James Schofield as Cox, Fred Haig as Lee, Emma Penzina as Nina, Mariya Mironova as Vera, Charles Walter as Illya, and Angus Wright as Dickie Franks.

Roadside Attractions has, since it is found in 2003, grossed over $300M and garnered nineteen Academy Award nominations. They have had critical and commercial hits such as MANCHESTER BY THE SEA, BEN IS BACK, BEATRIZ AT DINNER, HELLO MY NAME IS DORIS, WINTER’S BONE and THE COVER as well as so many others. For more information of what Roadside Attractions has to offer please visit www.roadsideattractions.com.

THE COURIER is based on the true story of Grenville Wynne who also write two books. In 1967 with The Man From Moscow and the 1981 book The Man From Odessa. The film takes its time progressing the relationship with the US and MI6 and once Penkovsky is introduced, it is easy to see how these two men put their lives on the line.

Cumberbatch and Ninidze are just sublime in these roles and give the viewer a reason for what each of them does and why. In that alone these two actors give their characters what is needed to keep us riveted in where the story goes and true concern when it all seems to come to a dangerous and inevitable outcome.

Obviously, I’m being a little vague because, as with all films I find intriguing, I am a firm believer in seeing those details for yourself. THE COURIER is cinematically outstanding and the costuming adds to the story being told by director Cooke. A fan of period pieces, films like THE COURIER will always get my undivided attention and high praise.

In the end – he is a businessman turned spy to save us all!

 

THE CURRENT WAR Electrifies on Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray from 101 Studios, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment and director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon is the story of what lights up our world from THE CURRENT WAR.

Thomas Edison (Benedict Cumberbatch) is an inventor who is on a mission to make his electric DC (Direct Current) lightbulb even better. At the time of inventing he realizes that his process reaches fewer home and was touted to be expensive.

Along comes George Westinghouse (Michael Shannon) who is also an inventor and is interested in what Edison is doing and sees a larger potential. Wishing to discuss the process even more, Westinghouse invites the Edison’s to dinner since the train was coming through their city. It was a meeting that was never to be. Westinghouse decides to work on his own technology by using AC (Alternating Current) as a mode for transporting electricity to a wider area.

In the middle of these two men is the quiet Nicola Tesla (Nicholas Hoult) who arrives in America to work for Edison. Having ideas of his own, he follows Edison only to discover that his employer only wanted to hear about his own work and no one else’s.

The war begins as Edison sees no other way but to publicly try to bring down Westinghouse by suing him for patent infringement. Taking swings at one another, the game goes back and forth so discover who has the stronger bat. In between, both men are under the umbrella of tragedy and potential financial ruin.

Edison makes decisions about his own inventions when he is approaches by prison officials but when he needs funding, his assistant Samuel Insull (Tom Holland) suggests that he work on the Phonograph. Again, in between the war is Tesla who leaves Edison and is talked to by Westinghouse but sees the same issue as with Edison.

It all comes to a head when Edison and Westinghouse both vie for providing electricity to the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1883 Chicago. At a final meeting between Edison and Westinghouse, one would expect a gloating session but they both know that each would be known as inventors.

Cumberbatch as Edison is a man that is obsessed with his invention. Supported by his wife in all ways, it is a miracle that she could keep up with his inability to see outside himself. His obsession leads to bad decisions that people keep trying to point out to him. Cumberbatch gives Edison the right twitches, especially when Edison goes against his own nature. Once again Cumberbatch turns in a solid performance.

Shannon as Westinghouse is equally as obsessed with inventions, but the difference is that he does wear his heart a little on his sleeve. When slighted or when lies are told, Westinghouse gives his anger a minute to find it’s place before jumping in and making sure the world knows what’s what! Shannon has these unique expressions that I already know this isn’t a character to mess with.

Hoult as Tesla is a man caught in the middle of the Edison and Westinghouse war. Neither will listen or they want something from him, but he holds true to himself. He doesn’t want to be part of the mess; he only wants to share his knowledge with the world but his light is kept dim by the two bigger names.

Holland as Insull also sees the potential of Edison’s work and tries to steer him clear of things that keep his invention from jumping the tracks. It isn’t an easy job, especially when your boss has a strong mind of his own. Shout out to Macfadyen as J.P. Morgan who sits and watches the mess waiting to pick up the pieces.

Other cast include Katherine Waterston as Marguerite Walker, Simon Manyonda as Lewis Latimer, Stanley Townsend as Franklin Pope, John Schwab as Rudolph Young, Conor MacNeill as William Kemmler, Matthew Macfadyen as J.P. Morgan, Damiel Molony as bourke Cockran and Tuppence Middleton as Mary Edison.

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.

THE CURRENT WAR is a period piece that captured my attention simple because it is a period piece. Having Cumberbatch and Shannon go at it is just icing on top of the cake for me. It is an fascinating look at how we came to throw a switch in our home today with ease and the battle it took to get us here.

I absolutely enjoyed the film from start to finish because it is never clear who was going to win the fight or if there was even a fight. It was more like two highly intelligent men could have made their lives a lot easier if they were so stubborn AND listened to Tesla. I wonder how different our world would have been.

In the end – only one could power the world!

1917 Brings the Realities of War to Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray, DVD and 4K Ultra HD from writer/director Sam Mendes and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment comes the story of two young men who try and stop a fatal mistake of war in 1917.

In northern France, Lance Corporals Blake (Dean Charles Chapman) and Schofield (George MacKay) are given one of the most dangerous missions. Learning that the Germans have retreated, the British 2nd Battalion Devonshire Regiment is preparing to attack. When it is discovered to be a trap, a message needs to be delivered to call it off.

Among the 1,600 men preparing is Blake’s brother so he volunteers to take a message to commander of the Battalion to stop. Schofield isn’t very happy about being a part of the mission but goes with his friend Blake.

Through trenches, explosions, dogfights, rigged bunkers and snipers in a destroyed village, the mission becomes even more crucial with ever step to save the soldiers who don’t know what is coming.

Bravery has no limits.

Chapman as Corp. Blake knows only one thing – he needs to stop the attack. Yes, it could be said his volunteering seemed motivated by family, but Chapman’s portrayal made me believe he would have done it no matter what or who.

Mackay as Schofield doesn’t start off with the same quality. Feeling forced to take on the mission, we as the viewing audience experience his change. He is still afraid but determined to finish what was started.

These two actors carry the weight of the story squarely on their shoulders. A difficult task in a film set to a harsh time in history and yet these two actors swoop us up for the experience without any fight from us.

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 film 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.

The Bluray Bonus Features include The Weight of the World: Sam Mendes – Academy Award winner Sam Mendes discusses his personal connection to World War I, Allied Forces: Making 1977 – Learn how to the one shot, 360-degree format was executed and the pivotal role Academ Award winner Roger Deakins served in bringing Sam Mendes’ vision to life, The Score of 1917 -Composer Thomas Newman and filmmakers discuss the important role of the Academy Award nominated score, In the Trenches – Go behind the scenes with the cast of 1917, Recreating History – Filmmakers offer a detailed look at the production design challenges of recreating the First World War, Feature Commentary with Director/Co-Writer Sam Mendes, Feature Commentary with Director of Photography Roger Deakins.

1917 will also be available on 4K Ultra HD combo packs which include 4K Ultra HD, Bluray & Digital Code.  

1917 is a time of young men going to war with the basics of everything. Yes, there were weapons and crude by todays technological standards, so it is stunning people survived at all. Mendes makes sure we are fully aware of it in every frame from start to finish.

In telling this story, Mendes enlists the like of Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth, Daniel Mays, Billy Postlewaite, Andy Apollo and Mark Strong to complete the road this film takes us down.

1917 is a start to the senses with a continual tension line to the very end. It works beautifully and the proof is in the 3 Academy Wards including Best Cinematography as well as two Golden Globe awards for Best Motion Picture – Drama and Best Director for Sam Mendes. The film has won 48 awards with 154 nominations and all this before Oscar nominations have been announced.

Mendes edited the film to be one continual shot. “You don’t want an audience thinking how you shot the film, it’s a constant dance between character and landscape and you have to allow for constant movement and create a real experience.” The story is inspired by Mendez grandfather’s experience with “The Autobiography of Alfred H. Mendes: 1897-1991.”

1917 is heartfelt and heart stopping wrapped up in an intense story of sacrifice, bravery and the ugly reality that is war. It has everything that an epic war film should but added serious intensity theatre viewers talked about for weeks and now on Bluray will keep us talking.

In the end – time is the enemy!

1917 Brings the Realities of War

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writer/director Sam Mendes and Universal Pictures comes the story of two young men who try and stop a fatal mistake of war in 1917.

In northern France, Lance Corporals Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) and Schofield (George MacKay) are given one of the most dangerous missions. Learning that the Germans have retreated, the British 2^nd Battalion Devonshire Regiment is preparing to attack. When it is discovered to be a trap, a message needs to be delivered to call it off.

Among the 1,600 men preparing is Blake’s brother so he volunteers to take a message to commander of the Battalion to stop. Schofield isn’t very happy about being a part of the mission but goes with his friend Blake.

Through trenches, explosions, dogfights, rigged bunkers and snipers in a destroyed village, the mission becomes even more crucial with ever step to save the soldiers who don’t know what is coming.

Bravery has no limits.

Chapman as Corp. Blake knows only one thing – he needs to stop the attack. Yes, it could be said his volunteering seemed motivated by family, but Chapman’s portrayal made me believe he would have done it no matter what or who.

Mackay as Schofield doesn’t start off with the same quality. Feeling forced to take on the mission, we as the viewing audience experience his change. He is still afraid but determined to finish what was started.

These two actors carry the weight of the story squarely on their shoulders. A difficult task in a film set to a harsh time in history and yet these two actors swoop us up for the experience without any fight from us.

1917 is a time of young men going to war with the basics of everything. Yes, there were weapons and crude by todays technological standards, so it is stunning people survived at all. Mendes makes sure we are fully aware of it in every frame from start to finish.

In telling this story, Mendes enlists the like of Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth, Daniel Mays, Billy Postlewaite, Andy Apollo and Mark Strong to complete the road this film takes us down.

1917 is a start to the senses with a continual tension line to the very end. It works beautifully and the proof is in the two Golden Globe awards for Best Motion Picture – Drama and Best Director for Sam Mendes. That is all before the wide release this Friday. 1917 has won 48 awards with 154 nominations and all this before Oscar nominations have been announced.

Mendes edited the film to be one continual shot. “You don’t want an audience thinking how you shot the film, it’s a constant dance between character and landscape and you have to allow for constant movement and create a real experience.” The story is inspired by Mendez grandfather’s experience with “The Autobiography of Alfred H. Mendes: 1897-1991.”

1917 is heartfelt and heart stopping wrapped up in an intense story of sacrifice, bravery and the ugly reality that is war. It has everything that an epic war film should but add serious intensity and it will have viewers leaving the theatre talking about Oscars.

In the end – time is the enemy!

Now on Bluray and DVD is DR. SEUSS' THE GRINCH

Jeri Jacquin

This week on Bluray/DVD and Digital from directors Yarrow Cheney, Scott Mosier, Illumination and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the one we know as THE GRINCH.

In Who-ville it is that time of year as the Who-ville-ians prepare themselves for their favorite holiday of Christmas. Of course there is always one who isn't quite so thrilled about the excitement and that's The Grinch (Benedict Cumberbatch). Living atop Mount Crumpit with his dog Max, Grinch gets a little grumpier when he realizes that he has to make a grocery stop in Who-ville which is the last thing he wants to do.

Also in Who-ville is Cindy Lou Who (Cameron Seely), a very sweet six-year-old who is very aware that her mother is overworked. Taking care of twin boys Buster and Bean, Mom Donna (Rashida Jones) keeps a happy face for her family but Cindy reaches out to Santa for a little help. The Grinch and Cindy meet and the outcomes is that Cindy Lou decides to go to the North Pole and ask Santa straight out for help. The problem is that the traveling she would have to do to make that happen means that Cindy Lou has to go to plan B - trap Santa!

The Grinch has his own idea for messing with Who-ville and the holidays he hates so much. On Christmas Eve with the help of Max, he decides to be Santa Claus and take every little gizmo and gadget from the towns people. While heisting the Who's house, he meets Cindy Lou again as she explains that she wants nothing for herself, only her mother and there is a crack in the Grinch's nasty ole heart.

That doesn't stop him from stealing everything in Who-ville and back up to Mount Crumpit. What he doesn't expect is that all the people of Who-ville see past the trappings of Christmas and celebrate the holiday with love in their hearts. Well, the Grinch can't get away from the feelings that snowball to the point of doing the right thing and becoming part of Who-ville the way it always should have been.

The Grinch toasts, "To kindness and love, the things we need the most"!

Cumberbatch as The Grinch is funny and charming in his grumpy way but that is what is expected of this iconic character. It is difficult to carry on the tradition of the Dr. Seuss' from it's 1966 Boris Karloff voice narration that I grew up with to the 2000 Jim Carrey hilarious version that my daughter grew up with but Cumberbatch has a little help from Illumination to make his version come to life.

Seely as Cindy Lou Who is a very sweet girl who sees the day to day struggles of her mother and although tries to help the best she can, she feels it might not be enough. That's a child with an amazing heart that should all be blessed to know.

Jones as Donna is a Mom who is trying to be everything to everyone and does so with the Who-ville positive attitude - even if it is exhausting. I found her creative, skillful and someone I'd like to have around my kitchen at breakfast time.

Lansbury as the Mayor is a voice I can say that I always love to hear and am thrilled that she is The part of the Grinch memorable universe.

Other cast include: Kenan Thompson as Bricklebaum, Tristan O'Hare as Groopert, Ramone Hamilton as Axle, Sam Lavagnino as Ozzy, Scarlett Estevez as Izzy and Pharrell Williams as the Narrator and the glorious Ms. Angela Lansbury as Mayor McGerkle.

Universal Studios Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us all to experience and re-experience in our own home theatres. 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.

The Bluray of THE GRINCH includes the Bonus Features of 3 Mini-Movies, The Making of the Mini-Movies, From Green to Screen, Who's Who in Who-ville, My Earliest Grinch Memories, "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" Lyric Video, Songs from His Little Heart, Grinchy Gadgets, Anyone Who Can Draw: The Grinch, Max, Fred, Cindy Lou's Yule Log and so much more!

The Digital Movie included in this pack has Movies Anywhere and with the Movies Anywhere App you can download and stream from any device which means you can go to Who-ville from almost anywhere.

THE GRINCH is a film that will be part of holiday viewing for years to come. The animation is green and vivid which is what we'd expect of the world created by Dr. Seuss and it adds to the fun of the film.

What is also in this film is the importance of family and helping one another because if you do that, it is so easy to reach out that feeling to a Grinch we all might know. Let's face it, no one wants to be left out of the holiday fun and watch it from afar. THE GRINCH invites us to be caring, giving, loving and full of holiday fun.

Now that's something we can all get behind all year long.

In the end - it's never too early to be annoyed by Christmas!

Now on Bluray and DVD is DR. SEUSS' THE GRINCH

Jeri Jacquin

This week on Bluray/DVD and Digital from directors Yarrow Cheney, Scott Mosier, Illumination and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the one we know as THE GRINCH.

In Who-ville it is that time of year as the Who-ville-ians prepare themselves for their favorite holiday of Christmas. Of course there is always one who isn't quite so thrilled about the excitement and that's The Grinch (Benedict Cumberbatch). Living atop Mount Crumpit with his dog Max, Grinch gets a little grumpier when he realizes that he has to make a grocery stop in Who-ville which is the last thing he wants to do. 

Also in Who-ville is Cindy Lou Who (Cameron Seely), a very sweet six-year-old who is very aware that her mother is overworked. Taking care of twin boys Buster and Bean, Mom Donna (Rashida Jones) keeps a happy face for her family but Cindy reaches out to Santa for a little help. The Grinch and Cindy meet and the outcomes is that Cindy Lou decides to go to the North Pole and ask Santa straight out for help. The problem is that the traveling she would have to do to make that happen means that Cindy Lou has to go to plan B - trap Santa!

The Grinch has his own idea for messing with Who-ville and the holidays he hates so much. On Christmas Eve with the help of Max, he decides to be Santa Claus  and take  every little gizmo and gadget  from the towns people. While heisting the Who's house, he meets Cindy Lou again as she explains that she wants nothing for herself, only her mother and there is a crack in the Grinch's nasty ole heart.

That doesn't stop him from stealing everything in Who-ville and back up to Mount Crumpit. What he doesn't expect is that all the people of Who-ville see past the trappings of Christmas and celebrate the holiday with love in their hearts. Well, the Grinch can't get away from the feelings that snowball to the point of doing the right thing and becoming part of Who-ville the way it always should have been.

The Grinch toasts, "To kindness and love, the things we need the most"!

Cumberbatch as The Grinch is funny and charming in his grumpy way but that is what is expected of this iconic character. It is difficult to carry on the tradition of the Dr. Seuss' from it's 1966 Boris Karloff voice narration that I grew up with to the 2000 Jim Carrey hilarious version that my daughter grew up with but Cumberbatch has a little help from Illumination to make his version come to life.

Seely as Cindy Lou Who is a very sweet girl who sees the day to day struggles of her mother and although tries to help the best she can, she feels it might not be enough. That's a child with an amazing heart that should all be blessed to know.

Jones as Donna is a Mom who is trying to be everything to everyone and does so with the Who-ville positive attitude - even if it is exhausting. I found her creative, skillful and someone I'd like to have around my kitchen at breakfast time.

Lansbury as the Mayor is a voice I can say that I always love to hear and am thrilled that she is The part of the Grinch memorable universe.

Other cast include: Kenan Thompson as Bricklebaum, Tristan O'Hare as Groopert, Ramone Hamilton as Axle, Sam Lavagnino as Ozzy, Scarlett Estevez as Izzy and Pharrell Williams as the Narrator and the glorious Ms. Angela Lansbury as Mayor McGerkle.

Universal Studios Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us all to experience and re-experience in our own home theatres. 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.

The Bluray of THE GRINCH includes the Bonus Features of 3 Mini-Movies, The Making of the Mini-Movies, From Green to Screen, Who's Who in Who-ville, My Earliest Grinch Memories, "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" Lyric Video, Songs from His Little Heart, Grinchy Gadgets, Anyone Who Can Draw: The Grinch, Max, Fred, Cindy Lou's Yule Log and so much more!

The Digital Movie included in this pack has Movies Anywhere and with the Movies Anywhere App you can download and stream from any device which means you can go to Who-ville from almost anywhere.

THE GRINCH is a film that will be part of holiday viewing for years to come. The animation is green and vivid which is what we'd expect of the world created by Dr. Seuss and it adds to the fun of the film.

What is also in this film is the importance of family and helping one another because if you do that, it is so easy to reach out that feeling to a Grinch we all might know. Let's face it, no one wants to be left out of the holiday fun and watch it from afar. THE GRINCH invites us to be caring, giving, loving and full of holiday fun.

Now that's something we can all get behind all year long.

In the end - it's never too early to be annoyed by Christmas!