Archives for : Drama
Stephen King’s newest adaptation, The Long Walk is not for the faint of heart. It’s a chilling and intense thriller grounded by the emotional depth of its relatable characters and the choices they make.
Based on King’s first-written novel, the film is set in a dystopian future where a group of teenage boys compete to win a life-changing prize in an annual contest known as The Long Walk, where they must maintain a certain walking speed or get shot. It is as stressful as it sounds, pushing horror boundaries that are equally terrifying, thought-provoking and emotional. The film is directed by Francis Lawrence, who ironically enough directed several of the Hunger Games movies, which plot wise feel eerily related. Lawrence masterfully captures the tension and anxiety these boys are feeling with every step they take. As soon as the walk begins, audiences will be on edge waiting for the inevitable demise of 49 walkers.
It is a difficult watch but if you can power through the unsettling images, you will be blown away by some early Oscar-worthy performances by Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson. Read full review here.
Rating: A-
“The Long Walk” opens in theaters September 12, 2025.
“After leaving Silver Falls following Alex’s love confession and her kiss with Cole, Jackie Howard spent the summer in New York City. When Katherine convinces her to return to Colorado, Jackie is determined to make amends with Alex and set boundaries with Cole while finding her place within the Walter family. But fitting back in isn’t that easy.”
I had the opportunity to speak with the stars (Nikki Rodriguez, Ashby Gentry, & Noah LaLonde) of the popular Netflix series, “My Life with the Walter Boys”. We discuss the series, what film they turn to when they are having a bad and more!
Don’t miss the highly anticipated season 2, streaming on Netflix August 28, 2025.
“In TWINLESS, two young men meet in a twin support group and form an unlikely friendship. Roman (Dylan O’Brien) and Dennis (James Sweeney) both search for solace and an identity without their other halves and soon become inseparable outside the group. But when Roman meets Dennis’ ebullient co-worker, Marcie (Aisling Franciosi), all is revealed to be not what it seems, as each man harbors secrets that could unravel everything.”
I spoke with the filmmaker and stars (James Sweeney, Dylan O’ Brien, Lauren Graham, & Aisling Franciosi) of the fascinating new dark comedy to discuss the film, books from their childhood that have shaped them, and more!
“Twinless” opens in theaters September 5, 2025.
“The Map That Leads to You” follows Heather (Cline), a young woman setting off on an adventure across Europe with her best friends before settling into her perfectly planned life. When she crosses paths with Jack (Apa), a magnetic and mysterious stranger, their instant spark ignites an emotional journey neither of them expected.
I had the opportunity to speak with the talented stars (KJ Apa, Madelyn Cline, Madison Thompson & Sofia Wylie) of the new romantic drama about the film, a time when they felt most present, and more!
“The Map that Leads to You” streams on Prime August 20, 2025.
Materialists has officially revived the rom com genre with a modern take on a familiar story, and I for one, hope that this refreshing spin on love brings romantic comedies back to theaters. While the film is more of a romantic dramedy, it has all the makings of becoming one of my favorite films of the year.
Lucy is an ambitious young New York City matchmaker, who finds herself torn between the perfect match and her imperfect ex. Starring Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans, the plot raises a lot of questions about dating in the world today. Read full review here.
Rating: A+
“Materialists” opens in theaters June 13, 2025.
SIRENS Interview: Julianne Moore, Meghann Fahy, Milly Alcock, Glenn Howerton, Felix Solis, Bill Camp
SIRENS is the hottest new binge-worthy mini-series on Netflix. The show features a powerhouse cast, including Academy Award winner, Julianne Moore, Meghann Fahy, and Milly Alcock.
Fahy plays Devon, who is concerned about her sister’s unhealthy relationship with her new boss. The series is a sharp and sexy dark comedy that will keep you guessing till the very end.
I had the honor of speaking with some of the stars of the show about show, a time in our lives when we’re most influenced, and more.
SIRENS is currently streaming on Netflix!
The new drama, “The Friend”, starring Naomi Watts and Bill Murray is an adaptation of Sigrid Nunez’s novel about an unconventional friendship between a writer and her late friend and mentor.
The film follows Iris, a writer and professor living in New York City. She has just learned about the unexpected passing of her longtime mentor and dear friend, Walter. The heartbreaking news has shocked her, and she isn’t fully able to process how the death has affected her due to the pressures of finishing the novel she had been working on with Walter and having to take care of his Great Dane, Apollo, which Walter has inconveniently passed on to her. To make matters worse her apartment does not allow pets, and finding a new home for Apollo is proving that Iris is taking on more than she can chew.
While Apollo starts out as an imposition in Iris’ life, he quickly becomes a blessing. He fills a void as a representation of Walter and helps her cope with the tragic loss – further proving the healing benefits of an emotional support animal. The film is more of a character study. While we see how all the people in Walter’s life are impacted in different ways by his passing, we focus on the one who seems to be internalizing most of her feelings. I wouldn’t say there’s a whole lot to unpack here, the message is straightforward, and the story is simple, but the delivery is well done through its heartfelt performances and the subtle progression of Iris and Apollo’s therapeutic bond.
Outside of the captivating flashbacks between Walter and Iris and the dynamic between Iris and her new furry friend, the film lacks creativity. It follows a familiar formula we have seen many times before and there’s nothing necessarily inspiring about the visuals or filmmaking. However, it is a solid watch that tackles heavy, yet relatable themes about friendship, grief, and life in general. And it never hurts to watch a heartwarming and easy-going story about the positive impact of companionship.
Rating: B-
“The Friend” is currently playing in theaters.
In TYLER PERRY’S DUPLICITY, high-powered attorney Marley (Kat Graham) faces her most personal case yet when she is tasked with uncovering the truth behind the shooting of her best friend Fela’s (Meagan Tandy) husband (Joshua Adeyeye). With the help of her boyfriend (Tyler Lepley) – a former cop turned private investigator – Marley’s search for what really happened leads her down a treacherous maze of deception and betrayal.
I had the opportunity to speaks with the stars of the film, Kat Graham Meaghan Tandy, Tyler Lepley, & RonReaco Lee about the power of the media and their captivating characters.
Check out the interview and the movie, streaming on Prime March 20, 2025.
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.