There is Love in a SUPERNOVA

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this week and soon to Digital from writer/director Harry MacQueen and Bleeker Street comes a story of love when knowing we are all part of a SUPERNOVA.

Pianist Sam (Colin Firth) and writer Tusker (Stanley Tucci) have decided to take a road trip and visit some of the people and places that they have shared. In an RV and driving on narrow roads on left side, they take loving jabs at one another until they reach one of their beautiful destinations.

Going from a beautiful lake to Sam’s sister Lilly’s (Pippa Haywood) home, they spend time with family and friends talking about what Tusker is writing and when Sam will play next. Later in the evening, Sam discovers something about his partner that he did not know before and isn’t sure how to deal with it.

Listening to Tusker and Charlotte (Nina Marlin) together in the evening air, it is clear that he is a loving person who sees the beauty in each and every star. On their way to the next destination, it is clear there is tension between the two. Once arriving, Sam must decide how to handle what he knows understanding that Tusker’s illness may make that difficult.

Firth as Sam is the music half of this relationship and is getting back into that world by preparing to play a small intimate concert. Taking the road trip with Tusker is an amazing way to revisit a few of the memorable places that mean something to them both. Firth is snappy in wit, lovely in affection and gives a beautiful performance mired in a deep sadness. This lovely actor has always had a soft spot in my heart and in SUPERNOVA, he proves why that is.

Tucci as Tusker is the writer half of the relationship and he has a lot to say. The problem is that he is having a difficult time saying it with pen to paper. Tucci matches wits with the character of Sam but then again, he has clearly made a career out of it and excelling consistently. Tucci in this role gives us a man dealing with knowing his life is slipping away and trying to accept that reality for both himself and Sam. Tucci is also an actor that I adore because he makes his roles look effortless whether it be a comedy or a drama.

Other cast include Peter MacQueen as Clive, Ian Drysdale as Paul, Sarah Woodward as Sue, James Dreyfus as Tim, Lori Campbell as Lola, Daneka Etchells as Rachel and Truffles as fur-baby as Ruby.

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

SUPERNOVA is a film of love, relationships, secrets, and grief wrapped up in two men who have made a life for themselves. From the first scene it is clear that Firth and Tucci bring their characters in with such believability that it felt like being a third wheel in the RV. I wanted to hear their story and more about the life they have shared together.

That is what makes this film so totally stunning, the beauty of their trip, the reality that even love can not stop what is coming for them and the acceptance of what is to come. Firth and Tucci allows us to share in all of that in such a way that the final scene just brings tears.

Writer/director MacQueen gives us everything in its simplest form allowing us to not be distracted by anything else but the relationship between Sam and Tusker. Even their surroundings from the RV to the countryside is cinematic to be sure and reminds us the world can be so lovely, as lovely as Sam and Tusker.

In the end – in this life never forget who you love and why.

Life is Not Easy Unless You’re a KAJILLIONAIRE

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming from writer/director Miranda July and Focus Features comes the extraordinary story of one woman’s journey to being a KAJILLIONAIRE.

Old Dolio (Evan Rachel Wood) lives with her mother Theresa (Debra Winger) and father Robert (Richard Jenkins) in a storefront building. During the day they spend their time finding ways to earn a few dollars and food while avoiding their landlord Stovik (Mark Ivanir). From a quick trip to New York to shady dealings, they have managed to carve a life out for themselves.

But Old Dolio is a little different staying a bit withdrawn, does not trust anyone and not too many helpful social skills. One day they meet Melanie (Gina Rodriguez) who seems to understand the family. Robert and Theresa take to Melanie quickly and enjoy her company, especially when she comes up with a plan to be a part of another – well, hustle.

At first Old Dolio is not thrilled with having Melanie around but slowly she becomes curious about the girl. She finally blows up at her parents letting them know she is tired of not being recognized with such things as birthdays etc. Going to Melanie’s house, Old Dolio is introduced to what goes on in the real world and is delighted.

Giving her parents one more chance to make her feel as if she is important to them, both Old Dolio and Melanie believe everyone deserves a second chance, or third chance…or fourth chance.

Wood as Old Dolio is delightful, unknowingly funny, sweet, and yet full of curiosity and even righteous anger. Hiding behind her clothes and hair, Old Dolio cannot hide the fact that she is also quite intelligent in the world of hustling. Watching this character bloom is endearing, charming and you want to scoop her up and show her the world. That is how invested you can become following her journey. Well done Ms. Wood.

Rodriguez as Melanie is a hustler in her own way but not as much of an expert as her new friends. She has a conscience and also sees something in Old Dolio that melts her heart and brings out a protective feeling that Old Dolio has never known. Rodriguez is sweet, smart and gives her character a little soul.

Jenkins as Robert lives in his own little world that really does not include his wife and daughter. It is almost as if he sees them more as employees than family. Jenkins has the most amazing way of portraying his characters with a sense of innocence in the midst of being a huge hustler. Winger as Theresa lets her husband do as he will and throws in her opinion here and there. Once confronted by Old Dolio, Winger’s reaction is one I did not expect and yet I did which adds to the mixture of feelings about what it takes to be a hustling mom.

Shout out to Ivanir as Stovik cracks me up. He is constantly there to try and get the rent from his tenants, but it is his moments of emotion that come out of no where that are confusing and filled with bubbles (you will see!). It is hard to run a business and be a landlord but Stovik adds a little something more.

Other cast include Patricia Belcher as Althea, Diana Riva as Farida, Da’Vine Randolph as Jenny and Rachel Redleaf as Kelli.

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

KAJILLIONAIRE is a film about the open dysfunction of this particular family but added in that is hustle - both physical and emotional. These characters bounce off one another and they are so unsure of it all that it is easy to see how they are taken in by their own mess.

What this film does bring is the journey of Old Dolio, a young girl that is basically living in a bubble to seeing her discover what it is to trust someone and discovering that her presence in the universe has value – without the hustle. The relationship between Old Dolio and Melanie bring so much hope and delight so its essential to congratulate Wood and Rodriguez for their amazing work.

This film is filled with creativity, originality and everything in between. Writer/director July has brought a film that I will be hollering for people to see for quite a while. Well done Ms. July, well done.

In the end – know your worth!

EXIT PLAN are Many Decisions and Realities

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to VOD this week from director Jonas Alexander Arnby and Screen Media is a journey of life and death when one has an EXIT PLAN.

Max Isaken (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) is an insurance adjuster who tries to help people with their claims. That is until one day he finds himself in the hospital being told that he has a brain tumor. Wife Laerke (Tuva Novotny) is trying to do everything to make Max deal with the situation he is in but finds he is closing himself off to everyone.

Going back to work doesn't seem to be an option as Max decides that he wants to take control of his life. In helping a previous client, he learns about the Hotel Aurora, a place where people who have illness go to work out their feelings.

As the days go by Max cannot seem to find a peaceful place within himself, especially when the hotel has a secretiveness about it. He begins to explore, and the management isn't happy about where he goes or what he sees.

It does not change the medical problems Max faces when the line between reality and fantasy start to blur. Max begins to question his life, thoughts and plans especially when missing Laerke and their life together.

Sometimes what we think is real and what is real are both a scary place.

Coster-Waldau as Max has had time to shed his Jamie Lannister armor and get gritty in another way. As this character, he shows every bit of emotion on his face. Since Max seems to be a man of few words, we follow the emotion and it takes us all on a journey through his life, love, empathy and what happens when we make a hasty decision. The ending is trippy but it couldn't have been any other way.

Novotny as Laerke is trying to make her man's life easier but when he does not communicate much it becomes difficult. As the viewer I begin to question her presence in all of it and that is a conversation for later after everyone has seen the film.

Shout out to Robert Aramayo as Ari, a young man who sees Max as a friend. He's not the only one that does as Max puts out an air that is endearing, especially when they all share the same reason for being at the hotel.

Other cast include: Jan Bijvoet as Frank, Sonja Richter as Alice, Johanna Woklek as Linda, Kaya Wilkins as Mia, Slimane Dazi as Francois, Mette Lysdahl as Kirstine, Solbjorg Hojfeldt as Karen and Vibeke Hastrup as the Doctor.

Screen Media is an international distributor of television series and films, licensing content through theatrical, home video, pay-per-view, free, cable and pay television, and subscription and advertising video-on-demand platforms.  In 2017 Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, Inc. acquired Screen Media which is in its 23rd year as a leading global independent distribution company. The company is continually looking to add films and television series to its content library. For more information please visit www.screenmedia.com.

EXIT PLAN is in the same vein as films like THE FOUNTAIN in which you, the viewer, must decide what is real and what is a reality used to protect from fear and anxiety. There is something quite beautiful in this story and perhaps it is because there are decisions in the film that must be made and once done - call for rethinking at such a personal cost.

The film itself tells a very slow story and it not encumbered by anything like noise, car blasts, etc., but instead keep it calm and quiet which for me was just as disturbing. It forces the characters to deal with their issues without anything getting in the way. If anything does you can be sure its whatever is in their own minds.

Coster-Waldau gives us the saddest person in character. Even if the character attempts a smile it is only to make someone else less uncomfortable (which does not work to my way of thinking). Throughout the film it is a struggle along with Max to find one moment of happiness in the midst of what can only be described as nothingness. Strange to be sure but oh so worth the watch.

In the end - is death the only way out?

FANTASY ISLAND Arrives by Plane on Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Bluray from writer/director Jeff Wadlow, Blumhouse and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is a return to a vacation like no other when landing on FANTASY ISLAND.

When a plane lands on a beautiful tropical island resort, guests Gwen (Maggie Q), Melanie (Lucy Hale), Patrick (Austin Stowell), Brax (Jimmy O. Yang) and J.D. (Ryan Hansen) are greeted by Julia (Parisa Fitz-Henley). Informing them she is the assistant of their host Mr. Roarke (Michael Pena) and that he would be meeting with them soon.

Taken to their rooms, they rest up and prepare for the one thing they came to the island for – to have their own fantasy to come true. Mr. Roarke appears and gives them the ground rules of their time on Fantasy Island starting with J.D. and Brax wanting to have it all. Arriving at their mansion with a party in full effect, not everything is at is seems especially when a Devil Face (Kim Coates) comes calling.

Patrick, a police officer in the real world, is given a pair of fatigues as his fantasy includes time in the military after losing his father at a young age to war. Going through the brush, a man named Damon (Michael Rooker) pops out and tries to get him away from what’s coming! In an unexpected twist Patrick comes face to face with Lt. Sullivan (Mike Vogel).

Gwen is having a hard time with the decisions she has made in her life. Mr. Roarke suggests that perhaps she should go back to that moment in time when she had the choice to be happy but didn’t take it. A man named Allen (Robbie Jones) could have the answer to her happiness. Melanie, on the other hand, has a specific fantasy in mind. Troubled by the way she was treated growing up, her mind is set on making a girl named Sloan (Portia Doubleday) know what it is like to be in such pain.

Sometimes a fantasy is not really what one is after!

Pena as Roarke is a man who believes that keeping the island alive is the most important thing in his life. Letting the guests know that they must see their fantasy to its ‘natural’ conclusion keeps him focused but is there another reason? This is an interesting choice for Pena and the role is a little more complex.

Q as Gwen also has a complex role as what she thinks will make her happy does for a brief period of time. That is until she realizes that what she is experiencing isn’t exactly what has been the problem all along in her life. Now she must be clever to change things up. That’s where Fitz-Henley as Julia comes into play, but she also has a few issues of her own to come to terms with.

Yang and Hansen play brothers (kind of the twin sons from different mother’s thing) and believe that their happiness lies within having it all. The problem with having it all, as Mr. Roarke points out, is that when you have it all someone usually wants to take it from you. These two aren’t as good at handing difficult situations as they are getting into them. That’s where having Coates as the Devil Face show up to give them a taste of ‘reality’. Seeing Coates again just made me squeal with delight. He is still as much of a badass as he wants to be that’s for sure.

Stowell as Patrick has the opportunity he didn’t even realize he wanted. Coming face to face with his past isn’t exactly how he wanted his fantasy to play out. Believing one thing about his father isn’t the same as seeing and hearing it for himself and that might be a bit much for him to take. Vogel as Lt. Sullivan has a thing or two to say about the situation he is in and how he feels about being a soldier.

The stunner story here is Hale as Melanie. I mean there are a few people from high school I’d like to verbally rake over the coals but man, Hale gets a chance to see it up close and personal. Seeing her past in a situation that is dangerous, Hale has a choice to be kind or be cruel. Doubleday as Sloane is clueless about what is happening and trust me, everyone has a story to tell.

Other cast include Jeriya Benn as Lila, Charlotte McKinney as Chastity, Josh McConville as Sarge, Tane Accra as Fischer, Edmund Hogan as Himoff, Ian Roberts as Dr. Torture, Evan Evagora as Nick, Andrew Lees as Will, Nick Slater as Greg and Joshua Diaz as Alejandro.

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.

Special Features include 12 Deleted Scenes with Commentary from Director Jeff Wadlow, Original Rated Theatrical Version Included, Audio Commentary with Director Jeff Wadlow and Cast (Unrated Version Only).

I was introduced to Fantasy Island back in 1977 with the very handsome Ricardo Montalban as Mr. Roarke and I was hooked. What I didn’t realize I was watching was a bit of what happens when ‘you get what you ask’ for kind of storytelling. This isn’t that. This version of FANTASY ISLAND is more of the darker side of what people think they want to make themselves happy.

It is an interesting twist especially since every person on the island has a story to tell and with six degrees of separation you can be sure there is something each of them hasn’t contemplated. This film is a popcorn Friday night fun movie especially with being at home trying to find creative ways to keep ourselves entertained.

In the end – anything you desire and everything you fear!

WENDY is a Stunning Story of Childhood

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Digital from writer/director Benh Zeitlin, Eliza Zeitlin and 20^th Century Fox Home Entertainment is a tale of childhood and belief from a girl named WENDY.

Wendy (Devin France) is a young girl who has grown up literally next to the tracks. Her mother Angela (Shay Walker) runs a small diner next to the trains that come and go. Watching things pass by, she passes time working at the diner and creating beautiful stories. When there is time she deals with twin brothers Douglas (Gage Naquin) and James (Gavin Naquin) who are constantly filled with energy.

One evening as a train passes by, Wendy sees a shape that sends her running to the window. On top of a slowly passing train in a boy! Wendy wakes Douglas and James climbing out their second story bedroom window and, without hesitation, jumps onto the moving train. They finally catch up with the boy and learns his name is Peter (Yashua Mack).

As the sun comes up, the kids see a part of the world they never dared dream existed outside their little world. Peter has a surprise for them when greeted by a boat that takes them to a very unusual island. They meet Sweet Heavy (Ahmad Cage), Cudjoe (Romyri Ross) and a boy they thought they knew, Thomas (Krzysztof Meyn).

On this island the children run, play, explore and have no concept of time. Peter likes Wendy and shows her some of his secret places. Wendy is thrilled with everything they experience. Douglas and James are beside themselves with sharing this adventure. While exploring a fishing boat off the rocks, their lives take a drastic turn.

The reality of being away from home sets in and Wendy discovers a very big secret of the island from Buzzo (Lowell Landes) and she isn’t so sure this is the place they should be.

Frances as Wendy is absolutely and totally stunning. A few years ago, I thought another young actor named Tom Holland had “it” when I saw his young self in a film called THE IMPOSSIBLE. Well, I was right so I am going to go out on another limb and say that Frances has that “it” and I can not wait to see what she does next. In her role as Wendy there is every emotion in her eyes, and they are as piercing as her physical performance. I am mesmerized by what she brought to the film and adored every moment she is on the screen. Well done young Devin, very well done. This may be your first role, but it will not be your last.

Mack as Peter is a young man with big beliefs in an exceedingly small body. As Peter, he is brave, reckless, and yet believes in the power of something greater than what adults can provide. There are scenes where he is strong and full of assurance, and then there are moments where the world falls out of his eyes and both are moving.

Let’s talk about the Naquin twins Gage and Gavin! In the beginning these two actors are full of mischief and are pretty much up for anything, including following Wendy! What happens from the moment they jump onto the train until the very end practically broke my heart. That is what these two young men brought to the film. Being twins there is already a connection and it showed throughout the film in their characters reactions to the situations. They are stunning to watch together and yet they served themselves well apart.

Walker as Angela is a mother doing what she can for her children. Having dream of her own when she was young, there is a sad acceptance for her lot in life. There is also the acceptance for her children that the diner is also their future. Shout out to Landes as Buzzo, what an amazing character to play and so unexpected in this story. He has his story and Wendy learns it all from him.

Other cast include Matt Owens as Tee Goose, Tommie Milazzo as baby Wendy, Stephanie Wilson as adult Wendy, and Kevin Pugh as James.

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.

WENDY Digital Special Features include Deleted Scenes Reel, Making WENDY, Audition Reel and VFX Breakdown.

WENDY is extraordinary in so many ways and it is the cast that makes it so. The children are exceptional, beautiful, charming, funny, sad and adventurous and all of these characteristics rolled together makes the film stunning. I went along for the ride just as easily as Wendy jumped onto the train with her brothers. I went willingly and I loves every moment of it.

The cinematography is breathtaking, and the special effects are flawless which adds to the believability of the ride that director Zeitlin takes us on. There is a magic to this film, and it is a simple magic that needs to be seen and experienced. If the directors name seems familiar to you, then perhaps you experienced the 2012 film BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD which was nominated for 4 Oscars. It was the AFI winner for Movie of the Year among so many other awards.  

When looking for something amazing to watch during this time at home, go on an adventure with WENDY.

In the end – it is time for an adventure!

SPINNING MAN Brings Unexpected Twists

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray/DVD and Digital from director Simon Kaijser and Lionsgate comes the story of what happens when what you believe and what is real can cause one to become a SPINNING MAN.

Evan Birch (Guy Pearce) is a philosophy college professor living with wife Ellen (Minnie Driver) and daughter Zelda (Eliza Pryor) and son Adam (Noah Salsbury Lipson).  Life is idyllic until a young high school cheerleader goes missing bringing Det. Robert Malloy (Pierce Brosnan) on the case.

Evan goes about his business until there is a knock on his door asking to search his car. Both he and Ellen aren’t sure what is happening or what Evan is being accused of. Reaching out to their family lawyer friend Paul (Clark Gregg), he is asked straight out if there is any chance of involvement.

Upset that anyone would think so, it becomes even more difficult when evidence is found in the car and stories don’t match up. Det. Mallory isn’t making it easy either by planting suspicions in Ellen’s mind. She immediately makes it clear to Evan that she isn’t going to cover for him.

The only light to his days is that of student Anna (Alexandra Shipp) who doesn’t ask much of him other than coffee and talk about his book. As Evan waits for the police to find the missing cheerleader, his mind begins to chase between what is real and the truth.

Both are a matter of life and death.

Pearce as Evan is a man who absolutely has command of the classroom and the subject he is teaching. Living the stereotype of an attractive man professor and yet he is jittery that no one believes in his innocence in all things. Trying to balance his life, his secrets and his persona is what could be his undoing. There is something about Pearce on the screen from PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT to L.A. CONFIDENTIAL to ALIEN: COVENANT that I know his role is going to be unique and memorable.

Brosnan as Det. Malloy isn’t ruffled in the slightest by anything that Evan says or does. He is one slick policeman when he plants little hints around the wife to get help in solving the case. There are even moments where it is easy to forget he is a cop when in the car with Evan which is, after all, what makes a good cop. Brosnan is still fun to watch and this role gives him grit.

Driver as Ellen is the dutiful wife and stands by her man, even if she’s done it more times that she would like. She also isn’t helping the police much in their investigation but that doesn’t mean she isn’t doing a little home detective work of her own. Driver gives character Evan a little public ‘what for’ shaming and I actually applauded her. It’s good to bend but Driver doesn’t break.

Shipp as Anna is a nice diversion to Evan’s problems and this is certainly the type of student a professor should run from – and run fast! Pryor as Zelda is at that age where parents can be embarrassing and this is just a few steps past the norm. Gregg as lawyer Paul is trying to get his client to stop talking and I suggest superglue to the lips!

Other cast include Jamie Kennedy as Ross, Sean Blakemore as Killian, Jeannie Austin as Barbara, Natasha Bassett as Carrie, Sterling Beaumon as Matt, Patrika Darbo as Kelly, Jennie Fahn as Irene and Odeya Rush as Joyce Bonner.

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

The Bluray and Digital include the Special Features of Deleted Scenes, Inside SPINNING MAN Director’s Commentary and Trailer Gallery. SPINNING MAN is based on the book The Spinning Man by George Harrar.

SPINNING MAN is a cat and mouse game and most of it is being played by Pearce’s character. All of his antics begin to meld together and that causes him to have problems knowing what the facts are and what is the mind just playing stress tricks. The addition of Brosnan’s character is that of a cop who will let a person hang themselves because he’s got all the time in the world to wait.

Pearce is definitely juggling this character and where it all falls is anybody’s guess – right up until the very last second. That’s what makes a good psychological thriller and this qualifies.

In the end – what you believe and what you know is all in how you spin it!

TULLY is an Amazing and Relatable Story

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from writer Diablo Cody and director Jason Reitman along with Focus Features is the stunning story with TULLY.

Marlo (Charlize Theron) is a pregnant mother of two making it one day at a time. Taking care of eight year old Sarah (Lia Frankland) and six year old Jonah (Asher Fallica) is taking it’s toll. Jonah also needs special attention and Marlo is immediately informed that perhaps her son needs a different school.

Husband Drew (Ron Livingston) does a lot of traveling on business and not noticing that Marlo is starting to feel the stress of – well – everything. Craig (Mark Duplass) is Marlo’s brother who is well off and sees that his sister is not herself. As a well-meaning gift, he has paid for a night-nanny so that she can get some rest.

Having the baby seems to make Marlo even more tired and out of sorts. She finally agrees to have a night-nanny and meets Tully (Mackenzie Davis). A little on edge at first, one night of sleep and waking up to a clean house gives life a brighter outlook thanks to Tully.

There is so much more to this young life saver as Marlo begins to find a friend who comes to her home every night and just listens. They talk, laugh and try to figure out this complexities of life. Tully becomes Marlo’s life cheerleader of sorts and she starts to find her way back to the family and Drew.

But there comes a time when Tully explains to Marlo that she must be moving on. Dismayed and confused, Marlo is caught up in what she will do next – and that’s when a realization hits her like a car into a tree.

Life is like that sometimes.

Theron as Marlo is absolutely incredible and shows us once again why she is an iconic actress who can bring a character such depth. Last year we saw her as a total badass in ATOMIC BLONDE and here she is, 50 lbs. heavier, playing a woman more than a few of us can relate to. Hair a mess, dropping off kids here and there, breastfeeding, going to school functions and meetings, making dinner, trying to keep house and forgetting what it’s like to be desirable to a husband, the character of Marlo is so much deeper. I love every second of this film.

Davis as Tully is energetic, wild, lovely and sees the world as many of us either can’t remember anymore or do but won’t admit it to ourselves. From the moment this character steps into Marlo’s life, Davis brings everything she has and does so with an ease that is remarkable. The final scene between Tully and Marlo proves my point on so many levels so be prepared for tissue time!

Livingston as Drew is a husband who just wants to keep things status quo. He loves being a husband and a dad but has disconnected in ways that he doesn’t know how to fix. Duplass as Craig is a brother who seems unaware that inviting his sister over to his very wealthy surroundings doesn’t help matters much. In the midst of that it is clear that he loves his sister very much.

Frankland as Sara is smarter than her young years and she knows that something isn’t quite right at home. Fallica as Jonah is a young boy who is trying to find his place and I personally think he is smarter than given credit for.

Other cast includes Elaine Tran as Elyse, Maddie Dixon-Poirier as Emmy, Colleen Wheeler as Dr. Smythe, Joshua Pak as Dallas, Gameela Wright as Laurie and Bella Star Choy as Greta.

TULLY is a film that is going to blow people away, absolutely drop jaws. This film runs the emotional course that, as a mother, I totally felt every bit of her predicament. The emotions portrayed here are done in a way that is funny, head smacking and heart breaking.

Diablo Cody has once again written a script that is real, solid and life capturing. Director Reitman takes that script and brings the only woman I can imagine being Marlo and letting her run with the story.

This is a tale of a life that is messy, unpredictable, regretful and not regretful, disconnected and yet it all makes sense squished together to bring a beauty that I will not soon forget. TULLY is the kind of film that I miss seeing and hope Ms. Cody won’t wait so long to write another script about life and what we do with it.

In the end – this is how the mother half lives!

READY PLAYER ONE is Fun Spielberg Style!

Jeri Jacquin

This Friday in theatres is the highly anticipated film based on the Ernest Cline novel and director Steven Spielberg's Amblin Entertainments vision with Warner Bros. presenting READY PLAYER ONE.

Wade Watts (Tye Sheridan) is a young man living in the future, far into the future in fact is the year 2045. Living in The Stacks with an Aunt and the one of many boyfriends, Wade seeks escape into the virtual world of the OASIS under the name Parzival. In this imaginary world he can be what ever he wants to be with no judgments and as many adventures as one wants to have.

The Oasis was created by the very unusual James Halliday (Mark Rylance) and encouraged by friend Ogden Morrow (Simon Peg). When Halliday passes away his dying wish was a contest - who ever could find the Easter Egg hidden in the OASIS would gain financial freedom and control of the Oasis. Of course it isn't that easy as there are three keys that need to be located and to find those, someone would have to really know the idiosyncrasies of creator Halliday.

Wade wants to find the keys and joined by friends Aech (Lena Waithe), Sho (Philip Zhao) and Daito (Win Morisaki) they begin with a race that no one can seem to get past. Preparing for the next race, Parzival meets virtual Art3mis aka Samantha (Olivia Cooke) who also wants to find the keys. When neither wins the race, Parzival realizes that he is not looking deeply enough into Halliday's life.

Off to the virtual museum of Halliday's life, he takes it slowly taking in all the information again when it comes to him how to get the first key. Once he does, he shares the information with other. Everyone is thrilled - well, not everyone! In charge of OASIS is Sorrento (Ben Mendelsohn) and his goal is to make sure that no one ever finds the keys and inside OASIS uses I-Rok (T.J. Miller) to keep an eye on things.

Sorrento is unconcerned on the outside that Parzival obtained the first key but begins to find ways to make sure that he doesn't find another. That means attacking Wade in the real world and hurting those he cares about. When The Stacks are attacked, Wade is grabbed and taken to safety and it is the first time Wade and Samantha meet in person. They both realize that if they are to stop Sorrento, it is going to have to be both in the real world and the virtual one.

Along with Aech, Sho and Daito, they plan to not only find the final keys but where the Easter Egg is hidden. Calling upon all of those who love the OASIS to help protect it and a battle royale begins.

Sheridan as Wade/Parzival is a young man who just wants to escape life in The Stacks. From an Aunt who seems to find the biggest losers to be with to the stacked neighborhood he lives in, the Oasis is a place to forget real life and discover a virtual life that is seen as amazing. Sheridan does a good job as a young man who is smart and willing to do whatever it takes to find the keys but that turns into something larger than himself.

Cooke as Samantha/Art3mis is a young woman who seems to be a thrill seeker and although that may be true, she is also a young woman with a goal - to stop Sorrento from controlling the Oasis. Cooke lends such empowerment to her character and not just because she sees herself as facially defective, instead she has humor and the smarts necessary to prove to Wade that there is more at stake than just a few bucks to be made in the Oasis. That's not a bad character to be!

Mendelsohn as Sorrento is perfectly happy being in charge of everything - literally and virtually. There is so much at stake and Sorrento isn't about to give up any inch of it. Mendelsohn has proven time after time that he is an actor to keep an eye on. If you get the opportunity, see his work as Danny Rayburn in the series BLOODLINE because that will give you more than enough reason to see why his character of Sorrento is so deliciously twisted.

Waithe as Helen/Aech is a supportive friend and has the ability to create amazing works in the Oasis but also happily joins with Samantha to fight Sorrento. Zhao as Sho is 'just an 11 year old' who is a pretty tough 11 year old if you ask me. He believes in the fight and doesn't want anyone telling him that age should stop him from helping. Morisaki as Daito knows a good fight when he sees one and isn't about to let down his companions.

Pegg as Morrow is a character that builds to the very end. His story isn't as big and bright as Halliday or Sorrento, but it is important none-the-less and it's always good to see Pegg. Miller as I-Rok is hilarious and when Sorrento takes his virtual character into the Oasis, these two play off one another.

Now, lets talk about Rylance as Halliday/Anorak - what an amazing performance. Now, there are moments when I capture a bit of the BFG but who cares! This character is smart, funny, sweet, endearing and is the most harmless human being and virtual character I think I've ever seen. Rylance has the amazing ability to draw the viewer into his characters world and invite you to sit for tea (which I gladly would). Of course I would tell you more but that would spoil it and I'm not about that. Just know that Rylance was the perfect choice to play Halliday. and I loved it.

Other cast includes Perdita Weeks as Kira, Susan Lynch as Alice, Clare Higgins as Mrs. Gilmore, Ralph Ineson as Rick, and Hannah John-Kamen as F'Nale Zandor.

I had an absolute blast watching READY PLAYER ONE and there are several reasons why. First, of course it was a thrill to see all the characters that I watched my sons play with their videos games back in the 80's and early 90's. It was such a different time when my boys taught me how to play and it was something we started doing together. So much so that the three of us entered a DONKEY KONG contest at Blockbuster (yes, Blockbuster!) and it was so much fun.

Added to that was the pop culture drops here and there mixed in with music that, to this day is something that I listen to because to me - that's when music was music. When Parzival says that Halliday's favorite song was from A-Ha, it made my heart melt. What a perfect reference if those my age remember the awesome artistry that went into making 'Take On Me'. 

Of course there is video, music, and pop culture references everywhere but then adds film references and oh my what a cherry on top of the cake. THE SHINING makes an appearance and I couldn't have been more thrilled, delighted and I even laughed (which of course I didn't do watching THE SHINING all those years ago!) at how it blended perfectly.

As a bonus, like chocolate shavings on the cake is seeing so many characters in the epic battle scene between Parzival, Art3mis and the gang along with every other virtual person and Sorrento with his own evil crew. There is one character I didn't expect to see but

then again why not? See if you can see the iconic favorite Bugs Bunny friend running across the battlefield and then hit me up when you see who it is.

So, READY PLAYER ONE is going to be a hit for the 80's and 90's crowd most definitely. It has almost everything and the kitchen sink thrown in for a fun time at the movies. I'm not giving anything away by saying that a beloved giant friend makes an appearance in the film which just tugs at my heart. The CGI is amazing and truly fun to watch.

This is the film to gather the family together to see and have such an amazing time. There is nothing, and I mean nothing about this film that I didn't enjoy. Of course I realize there is a book which I have not read but it doesn't take away from the fun I had in the theatre. It was actually quite nice to not take a film so seriously but instead let it take me on a journey to a conclusion that I'm pretty happy with.

Mr. Spielberg, prior to seeing the film I posted a pic and stated, "please don't let me down" and I'm here to say that your track record for entertaining me throughout all these years is still in tact. Well played sir, very well played.

In the end - a better reality awaits!

LEGION Takes us on an Unexpected Trip on Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray from creator Noah Hawley from the Marvel Comics and 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment comes an intense series on the search for what is truly real when part of the LEGION.

David Haller (Dan Stevens) has had problems most of his life. Hearing things and feeling out of control has landed him in the psychiatric ward. The problem is, Haller also has psychic abilities yet no one believes him. Haller also has a friend in another patient Lenny (Aubrey Plaza) and tries to help him stay together. Keeping him sane is when he falls for another patient Sydney Barrett (Rachel Keller). The difficulty in their relationship is that Sydney doesn't like to be touched. When it does happen, she has the ability to change places with that person.

 When Sydney is discharged from the hospital, Haller kisses her and that's when things get even more out of control. The minds of Haller and Sydney change places and no one believes them. That becomes even more problematic when Syd can't control Haller's reactions and hospital staff are hurt and his only recourse is to escape. The switch between the two is only temporary and Haller wants Sydney back.

Going to his sister Amy (Katie Aselton) for help it actually sets her up to be hurt by those who want Haller for themselves. Quickly enough Ptonomy Wallace (Jeremie Harris) and Kerry Loudermilk (Amber Midthunder) help Haller escape with the help of Melanie Bird (Jean Smart). He is taken to Summerland and discovers there are more people who have abilities. Bird explains that Haller isn't ill at all and that they need to go into his past to understand where he is now. While in an MRI, he sees that the group called Division III has taken Amy and his anger does something that shocks everyone at Summerland. Wanting to save her, Amy tells him that he has to control his power first before he can help anyone.

Working with Ptonomy on memories of a time when he did drugs, Haller is still plagued by the figure called the World's Angriest Boy in the World from a childhood book. Unable to control his powers again, Haller and Sydney end up at Division III where he sees someone called the Eye (Mackenzie Gray). Bird has to explain that his name is Walter who was one of the founders of Summerland. Everything gets so out of control that Haller has to be sedated enough so that Bird, Ptonomy and Sydney can get a better look inside his head but he is too strong for them.

When Haller doesn't wake up, Bird has to find out what happened to him before he ended up in the hospital and the only person that might have a clue is his ex-girlfriend Philly. Ptonomy gets a chance to see inside Philly's memory and learns that Haller attacked his previous therapist named Poole. Haller is on a journey of his own but Lenny comes to him to escape.

As Haller is dealing with problems in the astral plane, Cary believes that Haller's brain has been infected by something he calls the gruesome Devil with Yellow Eyes. The creature isn't at all done with Haller when it attacks Sydney but worst of all; the entire group at Summerland is now at Clockworks with Lenny as their caregiver!

Now under her control, Lenny takes on each of them and their issues but it is Sydney that notices something is different which costs her. Lenny isn't about to let any of them get the upper hand, especially when she knows things about Haller and has no problem demonstrating her control over his mind. Cary Loudermilk (Bill Irwin) thinks they've had it all wrong and that it is actually the powerful mutant Shadow King Amahl Farouk who is messing with Haller.

Haller believes that Farouk and his real father might have had issues that led to an altercation and that was the reason he was put up for adoption. Finding Haller as a kid, Farouk managed to place a device in his mind which is what has caused all the havoc. Trying to get back to Summerland, the group is intercepted by Division III!

In the finale, Haller manages to break free of Division III but it should have been seen as all too easy. Clark (Hamish Linklater), his interrogator, wants to get in on the action and goes with the soldiers to Summerland. Haller believes that Clark is their hostage but what they don't know is that Division III can see and hear everything happening. It’s a chance for some serious body exchanging to happen, Clark changes sides and Haller becomes doesn't see something little coming his way.

Stevens as Haller is truly doing some serious acting! This is a role that keeps the viewer guessing as to where Haller actually is in the grand scheme of things. What is trippy about this whole thing is that I like it! Stevens first caught my attention in the role of Matthew Crawley in the amazing series Downton Abbey followed by Sir Lancelot in NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB and more recently the role of Charles Dickens in THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS. The role of Haller is so complex and original that LEGION is the perfect place for Stevens to just let loose and explore all the avenues.

Keller as Sydney is a girl with her own set of powers that is equally as frightening as Haller's. He learns quickly that touching her can transform and change their situations. This also means that she is detached out of fear and can not allow her emotions to get any deeper for Haller. Smart as Bird is a woman who seemingly wants to help those with powers at Summerland. Jumping into the memories of the group has her unraveling the mysteries and Haller is proving to be her most difficult case.

Plaza as Lenny is just out and out creepy and I love it. You can never tell from one appearance to the next whether she is going to be on Haller's side or just messing with his memories. Aselton as Amy thought Haller was just dealing with serious mental issues, imagine her surprise to discover that those mental issues were nothing like she was raised to believe.

Harris and Midthunder still have their roles to play knowing that there are mysteries about Haller that are going to take digging and it seems it is harder than they have ever explored before. Gray as the Eye is another character that creeped me out because I was never quite sure what he was up to or what is place was in it all. Linklater still has a part to play but will it be for the good of those in Summerland? We shall see, we shall definitely see.

Twentieth Century Fox 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.

The Bluray includes the Special Features of Fractured Reality: A Different Kind of Hero, Uncanny Romance, Production Design, Powers, Make-Up (Making The Devil with the Yellow Eyes), Visual Effects, Costume Design, Locations and Deleted Scenes. Also included in the 2-disc Set are Episodes Chapters One Through Eight.

LEGION has definitely been on the radar with nominations for awards and wins like TVLine's Performer of the Week going to Aubrey Plaza, Best Sound Editing given by the Golden Trailer Awards, and tied for Runner Up for Best Action Series by the IGN's Best of 2017 Awards and the People's Choice for Best New Series.

If you want to watch the most interesting and twisted trip you'll every take, then LEGION is exactly the show you want to watch. From twists and turns in the story line to singing and dancing trips, this series isn't about to give you one little hint about the direction it plans to go.

I am going to be thrilled when Season Two begins but let's be clear, I had to watch Season One of LEGION twice because there is so much to take in I wanted to be prepared for what is to come. This is definitely a series that needs to continue to think out of the box and go places no one expects the story to go and don't ever put on the brakes!

In the end - there is no door to this rubber room!