James Gunn tries his hand at a new Superman movie, and because of my love for the filmmaker, I went into this film cautiously optimistic, even though there...
Jessica (Megan Stalter) is a New York workaholic in her mid-thirties, reeling from a broken relationship that she thought would last forever and slowly...
The last two Jurassic World films were a convoluted mess: a disappointing misfire after such a promising start to the revived franchise. After nearly three...
Watch the Generic Interview with Nicole Kidman, Matthew Macfadyen, & Gael Garcia Bernal
Directed by Mimi Cave Written by Andrew Sodroski Produced by Kate Churchill, p.g.a., Peter Dealbert, Nicole Kidman, p.g.a., Per Saari, p.g.a. Starring Nicole Kidman, Matthew Macfadyen, Jude Hill, Gael García Bernal
In this wildly unpredictable thriller, Nicole Kidman is the meticulous Nancy Vandergroot, a teacher and homemaker whose picture-perfect life with her community pillar husband (Matthew Macfadyen) and son (Jude Hill) in tulip-filled Holland, Michigan tumbles into a twisted tale. Nancy and her friendly colleague (Gael García Bernal) become suspicious of a secret, only to discover nothing in their lives is what it seems.
10. Deadpool & Wolverine – We still need a break from superhero movies and from the multiverse/timeline plots, but this film isn’t a formulaic Marvel movie. Some might even complain that there is no narrative, but that seems to be director Shawn Levy’s intent. “Deadpool & Wolverine” is meant to make fun of the over bloated superhero films and the mistakes of studios, while paying homage to the former X-Men universe. Not to say there isn’t a story, it’s just more along the lines of a high-quality spoof w/ a ton of A-list actors. Plus, the hilarious, on-screen chemistry between the dynamic duo (Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds) exceeded all my expectations.
9. A Real Pain- Jesse Eisenberg’s sophomore directorial effort, “A Real Pain” follows opposite cousins David and Benji who reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother. But their adventure takes a turn when tensions between the two resurface. The pain both characters go through impressively speaks louder from their actions and sometimes silence, more than any words they express to each other. “A Real Pain” is a sincere and thought-provoking, emotional journey that is elevated by the film’s beautiful and unforgettable performances, especially by Kieran Culkin. It’s a rare gem that has stayed with me all year.
8. Inside Out 2- The sheer genius of turning our emotions into loveable characters was enough to make you fall in love with the magic of the first “Inside Out”. In this sequel, we follow Riley as she enters her teen years and makes room for new emotions like Anxiety. It can be therapeutic and beneficial to see the portrayal of an emotion that everyone can relate to, but do not often talk about. The film still sparkles from its lovable characters and provides a family-friendly avenue to discuss feelings and mental health with loved ones.
7. Dune: Part Two- I didn’t care for “Dune: Part One”. It was long and barely anything happened. It was all set-up and when we were finally getting somewhere good, the film abruptly stops and leaves us with a big “To Be Continued”. Luckily, the action and storytelling we were craving in the first movie is all in “Dune: Part Two”. The second installment picks up where it left off with Paul uniting with Chani and the Fremen to seek revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Director and co-writer, Denis Villeneuve properly brings this science fiction novel to life. Beginning with the mesmerizing world he has created. Desert sand has never looked this attractive swirling through the winds and fight sequences, paired with a roaring soundtrack that will make you feel as if you are in the movie. The set is immersive and the work that has gone into this imaginative society is engaging, especially the cinematography by Greig Fraser.
6. The Substance – “The Substance” follows an aging celebrity, who takes an underground drug: a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself. I’m always a fan of an original story with a powerful message, and this one is about as unique as they come. It’s grossly entertaining and not for the weak stomach. Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley are captivating from start to finish. The two give phenomenal physically demanding performances, and Director/Writer Coralie Fargeat cleverly portrays the struggles women face to remain relevant and “youthful” in Hollywood.
5. My Old Ass – A coming-of-age story about a young girl who meets her 39-year-old self while tripping on mushrooms. The older version of herself, hilariously played by Aubrey Plaza, delivers a warning about her future that causes her to rethink everything about her family, life, and love. While Plaza is fantastic in the film, Maisy Stella gives an unforgettable breakout performance that will make you laugh and cry. “My Old Ass” is another original gem that we were treated to this year by Director/Writer Megan Park, who authentically captures how bittersweet it is to grow up, the risks of a first love, and the many things we take for granted when we’re young.
4. Twisters – Like most sequels, I always proceed with caution. However, the charm of Glen Powell and the patience of waiting decades to create a well-crafted sequel to the effect of “Top Gun: Maverick”, makes this movie a success. The talented stars of “Twisters”, including Powell, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Anthony Ramos, already give this film an advantage. But the key to this enjoyable watch, much like its predecessor, is how the film takes a simple and relatable concept, like chasing tornadoes; and adds a lot of heart because they are trying to help people. After laying that groundwork, they focus on what made the first film so memorable, the special effects and action. And I can confidently say, director Lee Issac Chung delivers on all counts, pulling audiences in from its opening scene and taking us on an exhilarating ride of breathtaking visuals.
3. Wicked- With all the praise surrounding this film, it should come as no surprise that I would have it at such a high spot. It is a vibrant reimagining of the classic Wizard of Oz movie and spotlights the untold origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West and her once dear friend, Glinda the Good Witch. In many ways, I enjoyed this story more. It raises the questions -Are people born evil? Are those who claim to be heroes genuinely good? But most importantly, it sends a powerful message about not judging people before getting know them firsthand. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande pour their hearts into an unforgettable, award worthy performance. “Wicked is a beautiful, moving musical that undeniably defies gravity.
2. Emilia Perez – I went in completely blind before watching “Emilia Perez”, only knowing it was an indescribable musical, comedy, thriller with a stellar cast. I came out of it blown away by the incredible performances of its three leading ladies: Zoe Saldana, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Selena Gomez. The film’s unbelievably thrilling twists and turns made for one of my favorite cinematic experiences. For those who may not know, the movie is about a cartel leader, who enlists an unappreciated lawyer, to help fake her death so that she can finally live authentically as her true self. It’s a wild ride that not everyone will want to take, but I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially, seeing Saldana slay in a role that proves she’s a show-stopping, versatile talent.
1. Scrambled- Many of you may not have heard about this one. After being treated to it earlier this year and getting to speak with filmmaker, Leah McKendrick, I have not forgotten the emotional impact this film had on me. “Scrambled” is about a thirty-something eternal bridesmaid that is being pressured to have kids and settle down. Still single and only getting older, she decides it’s best to freeze her eggs. This leads her on an empowering, and hilarious, journey of self-discovery. The movie is relatable to anyone who has felt like they are running out of time or trying to catch up to friends who are getting married, having kids, or just moving forward in life. But at the same time, there is an inspiring and beautiful representation of what it means to be a true friend, someone who is happy for you at your highs even when they may be at their low. The film also offers a genuine portrayal of IVF that is lacking in Hollywood. McKendrick uses her personal egg freezing journey to share a witty, heartfelt story that will stay with me forever.
The Rest of the Best:
11. Late Night with the Devil
12. Saturday Night
13. Blink Twice
14. Conclave
15. The Last Showgirl
16. Thelma
17. The Fall Guy
18. Woman of the Hour
19. Fresh Kills
20. Amber Alert
Top 5 Worst Film of 2024
5. Drive-Away Dolls – Too ridiculous to take seriously or even watch.
4. Rumors – Made no sense, felt like a bad Shakespearian play.
3. Night Swim – “Don’t look back” and don’t look AT this movie. EVER!
2. Megalopolis – Don’t let the negative reviews fool you, this film is far worse than what critics are saying.
1. Madam Web – OOF! Not only did they ruin a Britney Spears song, but they also hurt four talented actors, who suffered from a painful, lazy script, and terrible filmmaking.
Maya and the Wave is currently playing at the Village East theater in New York, with upcoming screenings at the Laemmle Glendale and the Laemmle Monica in Los Angeles, and expanding through the end of the year
NEW YORK—September 12th, 2024—The team behind Maya and the Wave announced today that Rashida Jones and Meena Harris have officially boarded the film as executive producers. The documentary tells the extraordinary story of Maya Gabeira, the first woman to surf the giant wave in Nazaré, Portugal. She nearly drowns – and is ridiculed by the male big wave surfers who dominate the sport. Three spine surgeries and five years later, she surfs the biggest wave a woman has ever surfed. When her accomplishment is disregarded, Maya enlists the help of her fans to fight for recognition — and becomes the first female surfer honored with a Guinness World Record in big wave surfing.
The story of the films’ release mimics Maya’s own story of heartbreak and comeback. Shortly after the Toronto premiere, the film’s cinematographer and co- producer, Jorge Leal, had a brain stem stroke, leaving him completely paralyzed. The crew and Maya rushed to his side and spent the next 10 months in hospitals and treatment centers, aiding in his recovery. With Jorge well enough to go back home, it was finally time to bring Maya and the Wave into the world.
“We are so excited to have Rashida Jones and Meena Harris come on board the film. We admire them both so much for their commitment to amplifying female voices and are beyond thrilled to have their support. Getting the film here has been a journey, and they feel like the best partners we could ever have.” said Stephanie Johnes, the film’s director.
“As we witness a global backlash against women’s human rights, we need powerhouse women like Rashida and Meena to champion women’s stories more than ever before. All hail these loud and powerful women for bringing their fire and their platforms to support a story that, at its core, is an everywoman’s story of living in a man’s world,” added producer Ali Johnes.
“On and off the screen, Maya and the Wave is a miraculous story of resilience and perseverance. This inspiring portrait of an underestimated woman determined to win also happens to be an epic sports documentary — everyone should see it,” said Meena Harris.
Rashida Jones added, “Maya and the Wave is inspiring, shocking, gorgeous, intimate and triumphant. Maya’s courage, determination and vulnerability will stick with me forever. Hers is the consummate heroine’s journey. I’m so proud to have any small part of sharing this movie with the world.”
Meena Harris is the founder and CEO of the Tony-Award winning company Phenomenal Media. She is a #1 New York Times bestselling children’s book author, and the co-founder and general partner of the VC firm Phenomenal Ventures. Meena is also a lawyer and influential activist for gender and racial equity. She most recently co-produced Dylan Mulvaney’s Edinburgh Fringe sensation, Faghag, and the Tony-Award winning musical Suffs, currently on Broadway.
Rashida Jones is an Emmy-nominated and Grammy award-winning actress, writer, director and producer, best known for her beloved roles on the universally acclaimed, fan favorite sitcoms, Parks and Recreation and The Office. Beyond acting, Jones is a renowned documentary filmmaker, who garnered an Emmy-nomination for her Netflix docuseries, Hot Girls Wanted, and won a Grammy for Best Music Film for Quincy, a film about her father, Quincy Jones. Jones is an outspoken feminist, and advocate for women’s rights and intersectional inclusivity, who often reflects these themes in her illustrious body of work.
Documentary Explores Legendary Dancer Who Ignited Flames of the 1960s
Sexual Revolution; Dallas’s Top Burlesque Dancers With Minxe Mimieux As The Lead Dancer Will Perform Live Revue at Select Opening Weekend Shows
Picturehouse’s CAROL DODA TOPLESS AT THE CONDOR, exploring the history and impact of the legendary topless dancer who ignited the 1960s sexual revolution, will open in Dallas exclusively at the Angelika Film Center (5321 E Mockingbird Ln #230) on Friday, April 19.
Opening weekend audiences will experience a special live pre-show revue, “Doda-esque Burlesque,” featuring a bevy of Dallas’s own top burlesque dancers with Minxe Mimieux as the lead dancer in a spectacular tribute to Carol Doda’s with a special post screening Q&A.
As the lights go down…experience a special live pre-show performance of “Doda-esque Burlesque!” A spectacular tribute to Carol Doda featuring a bevy of enchanting local burlesque performers. Sit back and enjoy as the divas of today pay tribute to the ultimate diva of yesterday. Come early! Taking place prior to the film, this live performance will have NO NUDITY, and promises to be an exciting and teasing good time!
Rated: R for nudity/graphic nudity throughout, some sexual material, language and drug content
Synopsis Against the backdrop of the 1964 Republican Convention, a San Francisco cocktail waitress became one of the city’s most popular entertainers after making her debut as America’s first topless dancer. The new documentary feature Carol Doda Topless at the Condor tells the story of the fresh-faced girl next door who defied convention and the law by gyrating atop a white baby grand piano and turning a North Beach nightclub into the city’s second-most-popular tourist attraction after the Golden Gate Bridge. Meanwhile, Doda’s very public use of silicone to enhance her breasts launched a new industry. Directors Marlo McKenzie and Jonathan Parker share an unprecedented look at Doda’s life and legacy, as well as a behind-the-scenes tour of the vibrant, sometimes outrageous and always entertaining world of North Beach.
Director/writer Maryam Keshavarz pulls from her personal life to tell the story of an Iranian American woman, who has a strained relationship with her mom, until her unexpected pregnancy stirs up the past and reveals a big family secret. The film beautifully shows the strength, wisdom, and humor of Iranian women; while providing a compelling and entertaining portrayal of Persian culture.
9. Maestro
I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about this film, but it surprisingly hooked me from the start. Bradley Cooper directs, writes, and stars in the engaging love story of conductor-composer Leonard Bernstein and actress Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein. Cooper pours his heart and soul into this project and Carey Mulligan leaves you breathless. Watch this one with no distractions and let yourself get fully immersed in this beautiful film.
8. Saltburn
Director/Writer Emerald Fennell won her first Oscar for my favorite film of 2020, the mystery and drama “Promising Young Woman”. Now she brings us another unique thriller; this time about a lower-class outsider, desperate to fit in with his rich classmates. “Saltburn” is not going to be for everyone. If you have a weak stomach, this probably isn’t the film for you. However, if you’re a fan of WTF moments, dry humor, and unpredictable twists and turns, you’ll love this film as much as I did.
7. The Holdovers
Quite possibly Alexander Payne’s best film yet. Paul Giamatti plays a cranky history teacher at a remote prep school who is forced to stay on campus over the holidays with troubled students who have nowhere to go. The biggest standout here is Da’Vine Joy Randolph’s performance as the witty cafeteria lady who’s still grieving the loss of her son. If she doesn’t win Best Supporting Actress this year I will riot! Giamatti is at his best and Dominic Sessa is a talent to watch out for. “The Holdovers” is a touching, bittersweet tale of complex and opposite characters who find family within each other.
6. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.
Based on Judy Blume’s best-selling novel, the film follows Margaret Simon, an 11 year-old going 12, who begins to learn more about herself as a friend, daughter, and grand-daughter. This film brilliantly stays wholesome and inclusive, while not shying away from sensitive subject matters like religion, racism, or sexual education. “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” is a funny and charming, feel-good, coming of age movie the whole family can watch.
5. Barbie
Director/Writer/Actress Greta Gerwig is a force to be reckon with. Barbie broke box office records and held the #1 spot at the movies for weeks this past summer. Not only is the screenplay unbelievably clever but it’s hilarious, heartwarming, and shines an important light on gender roles in our society. Barbies were made to make women feel like they could do anything, and Ken’s were just their arm candy; but the same can’t be said for men and women in the real world. “Barbie” also features a brilliant production design, a scene stealing performance by Ryan Gosling, and an unforgettable monologue by America Ferrera.
4. American Fiction
Jeffry Wright plays a novelist who is fed up with the establishment profiting from “Black” entertainment and to prove his point, he uses a pen name to write a book that frustratingly becomes a success. Director/Writer Cord Jefferson’s script is hilarious, timely, and authentic. Wright outdoes himself in a comical yet emotional role we have yet to see from him. “American Fiction” is a smart and inventive story about the idea of selling out while touching on issues of racisms. It’s sarcastic and painfully awkward at times, but I loved it.
3. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” centers around the team working together to save Rocket and the world from a villain who’s looking to create what he defines as the “perfect” society. Out of all the Marvel characters, this group has always felt the most like family because they are each other’s chosen one. That bond is beautifully showcased in volume 3. We get to see Rocket’s backstory, which explains his attitude and why his family with the Guardians means so much. The entire cast lands the comedy and conveys the heart of the story exceptionally. “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” is a visually stunning perfect blend of humor, emotion, and fun!
2. May December
“May December” follows a married couple 20 years after their notorious tabloid romance gripped the nation, and an actress shows up to do research for a film about their past. This shocking plot is based on a true scandal where a 34-year-old teacher, who was married with kids had an affair with her 12-year-old student. Cringing, I know! I love how this film unpacks more of the psychology of this scandal and how those involved would be affected years later; while also digging into how a method actress would approach the role. The film is campy, uncomfortable, seductive, and haunting. Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore are of course great in this, but it’s Charles Melton who stands out with his breakthrough performance that should win Best Supporting Actor.
1. Air
This should come as no surprise since I haven’t been able to stop talking about my love for this movie. I don’t get why this isn’t showing up on more Best Picture lists or nominations. A big part of the reason why “Air” soars is because of the film’s authenticity. Ben Affleck wanted to do this story right. He met with Michael Jordan and made sure he approved of the facts, and what they would be portraying. Jordan’s only request was that Viola Davis play his mom. And who can blame him? She’s fantastic. Affleck continues to prove himself as a skilled director with his excellent focus and passion for storytelling. The film is an entertaining crowd-pleaser that moves quickly. It’s hilarious and has an inspiring message about following your instincts and taking risks. EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH!
The Rest of the Best:
11. You Are So Not Invited to my Bat Mitzvah
12. M3GAN
13. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
14. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
15. Past Lives
16. Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
17. Nimona
18. Priscilla
19. Talk to Me
20. Quiz Lady
21. Somebody I Used to Know
Top 5 Worst Films of 2023
5. You People – The fact that they had to CGI a kiss
between the leads lets us know it must have been just as bad behind the scenes.
4. Maybe I Do – BORING!!!
3. What Happens Later – An underwhelming return for
Meg Ryan, who lacked any chemistry with David Duchovny.
2. Paint- About as entertaining as watching paint dry.
1. Ferrari – How was this film approved to been seen by any human ever? To say this crashed & burned is an understatement.
