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SCRAMBLED Interview w/ Filmmaker Leah McKendrick

“A thirty-something eternal bridesmaid goes on an empowering, and often hilarious, journey of self-discovery.” I had the opportunity to chat with Leah McKendrick, the director/writer/star of the new comedy, “Scrambled”.

This is an early favorite film, and it was such an honor to have an emotional and fun conversation with her about a film that meant so much to me. We discussed things she wanted to highlight about her personal egg freezing journey, the importance of being a supportive friend, and much more!

Be sure to watch “Scrambled” in theaters February 2, 2024.

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Movie Review: “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”

After so many Marvel misses, this one might be their first hit in a while. This week in Feature Flix, I share my thoughts on the highly anticipated third installment of “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”.

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” opens in theaters May 5

Rating: A

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Review: “Oklahoma” is a far from Traditional Production

Roger & Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!” at Winspear Opera House – Dallas, TX

Where to start with this production of Daniel Fish’s “Oklahoma!”. I’ll admit, even though I knew this was a different version of the 1943 production, I still had no idea what I would be walking into. The moment I sat down and saw the very bare, wooden set with walls of guns, I quickly knew, this wasn’t like anything I had imagined.

Due to the recent shootings and, unfortunately, the Tulsa shooting that happened during opening night, there was an insert card explaining a “prop gun use warning” in our playbills.  It was slightly alarming, and may have overshadowed a bit of the story.

Fish’s revival of the beloved Broadway classic is far from a traditional musical production.  The set lacks color with wooden walls and tables, the cast sits around until their turn to speak, and there is no big musical, choregraphed numbers.  This show is much more relaxed, and the dance numbers seem less rehearsed, with the exception of a emotionally heavy, solo dance in the second opening act.

I can appreciate a modern twist on an old school tale; however, this show never picked a lane.  One minute you’re in a comical, old western setting, next you’re in the dark listening to a depressing conversation about death.  It took me out of the story multiple times, till eventually I gave up trying to stay in.

Though, the production was not my cup of tea, the talent of the entire cast was!  Sean Grandillo does a fine job as Curly, offering his vocal and instrumental gifts while playing the guitar.  Sasha Hutchings as Laurey stuns audiences the moment she first sings onstage.  She effortlessly embodies her character from the beginning to the sad end.  BUT the hilarious shining star is Sis as Ado Annie!  Talk about a showstopper.  Whether she’s singing or flirting, you can’t take your eyes off of her.  In some dark times during the show, she was a bright light.  Confidently juggling two men, while acting like a sweet innocent little girl to her shotgun carrying daddy.

I’m all about creative, artistic liberties, but this production of “Oklahoma!” was just a little too outside of the box.  However, it is still enjoyable to watch this talented ensemble and hear their renditions of the beautiful soundtrack.

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s OKLAHOMA! at the Winspear Opera House from May 31 – June 12.  Get tickets at https://broadwaydallas.org/shows/oklahoma/