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M. Knight Shyamalan was once known for his great films such as The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable, and Signs. Unfortunately, his more recent projects have subjected us to some underwhelming, pieces of crap like The Happening and After Earth. Well folks, I’m pleased to say that Shyamalan’s newest film, The Visit, succeeds as a highly entertaining horror-comedy!
Kathryn Hahn plays a single mother of two who has not spoken to her parents since she left home at the age of 19, and ran off with an older man. Now, her parents have reached out to her through the internet and ask that her children come to visit their Nana (Deanna Dunagan) and Pop Pop (Peter McRobbie), whom they’ve never met.
Per the kids’ wishes, the mom sends them to their grandparents’ isolated, Pennsylvania farmhouse in the woods for a week while she goes on a cruise with her new boyfriend. The eldest child, Becca (Olivia DeJonge), is an aspiring filmmaker. She takes this opportunity to document her entire trip, and hopefully uncover exactly what happened the day her mother walked out on her parents and maybe even mend their relationship. Alongside her, as a second camera operator is her younger, germ phobic, rapping brother, Tyler (Olivia DeJonge).
The trip starts all well and good, Nana makes plenty of tasty treats and Pop Pop enjoys listening to Tyler’s ridiculously, hilarious raps. Seems as though it will be a great week for the kids; that is until they discover why bed time is at 9:30pm. Nana goes from a harmless, nocturnal sleepwalker to a straight up psychotic, creepy, crawler within each passing night! And what exactly is Pop Pop doing when he disappears inside his mysterious shed?
As things are turning eerie fast, the kids are desperate to have their mother come get them before anymore craziness unfolds.
Shyamalan has not only redeemed himself as a filmmaker, but he has also brought originality to the found-footage genre. His combination of humor and terror will have audiences uncomfortably laughing while still on the edge of their seats as they nervously anticipate what’s to come.
The acting is good overall, especially when it comes to the two kids, who could have ruined the whole film if they were wrongly cast. Oxenbould was given some cheesy lines and potentially bad jokes, but his delivery and timing is so on point that you can’t help but enjoy every second he’s on screen. But the real stand out here is Nana. Dunagan gives an incredible performance as the disturbing grandmother who seesaws from sweet and nurturing to plain insanity.
The Visit provides comedy, horror, family, and best of all, a startling amount of effed up sh**. Literally!
Rating: 4/5
The Visit opens in theaters on September 11.
Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton team up for the first time in a comedy that will warm your heart, but most likely escape your mind once you leave the theater.
Oren Little ( Douglas ) is a successful, self-centered realtor living in a somewhat secluded, peaceful home. But, his life is quickly turned upside down when his estranged adult son shows up out of the blue and drops a bomb on him. He is about go to jail for nine-months and needs his dad to look after his almost 10 year-old daughter, Sarah (Sterling Jerins). At first Oren is adamant that he won’t be looking after the granddaughter he never knew existed. Luckily, Leah (Diane Keaton), the kind, self-less next door neighbor steps in assuring Oren’s son that she will be in good hands. And so, begins a story you can probably already predict.
Love is not just felt for young Sarah; it is also spreading its way to an unlikely couple. Leah and Oren share a sweet romance, but not an exciting one. Michael Douglas definitely still has “it.” Charm, wit, class, he exudes all of it when he is on screen. Diane Keaton on the other hand offers some shrilling and quite annoying cries throughout the film. The cries aren’t as bad as they were in Something’s Gotta Give, but my gosh. Whoever thought the constant whiney sobs of woman are hilarious is seriously mistaken. Keaton plays a very likeable character and caring one at that, but somehow her moments of comedy failed to produce any real laughs. Douglas and Keaton have great chemistry as friends, but as lovers their relationship felt forced.
Though the romantic aspect of And So It Goes was weak, the family story-line was surprisingly enjoyable. Seeing Oren with his granddaughter or even his limited moments with his son can’t help but make you smile.
And So It Goes hardly stands out among the films currently in theaters, and I can’t even say it should be in your top choices to see this summer. However, if you are in the mood for a light, uplifting, and simple comedy, then I do recommend you sit back and enjoy this endearing story.
Rating: 2.5/5
And So It Goes hits theaters July 25.
And So It Goes Official Trailer HD
It is Rogen verses Efron. And in this battle, we, the audience are the winners.
After his let down performance in That Awkward Moment, I was a bit wary when walking into this film. I wasn’t sure if Efron could compete with Rogen in the “real” battle at hand. Which star can generate more laughs? And would Zac Efron offer more to the story than just his chiseled abs and deep blue eyes? Well folks, I’m here to tell you that Zac Efron not only proves himself as a genuine comedic actor, he is also able to hold his own against Seth Rogen. At times, he is even funnier than the Knocked Up star himself.
The more I think about this movie, the more I appreciate the whole premise. Such a simple idea/nightmare has made for a truly fantastic laugh out loud comedy.
Mac (Seth Rogen) and Kelly Radner (Rose Byrne) have just moved into the perfect home with their beautiful new born baby. Kelly is a stay at home mom who gets to spend all day with baby Stella. Mac works a 9-5 desk job that he tries to endure with a little bit of help from “Mary Jane.” Their days are starting to feel routine, and they are unable to go out because of the baby. It’s beginning to feel stagnant for the new parents. But all that changes when we hear the sound of the boisterous fraternity that has moved in next door. In hopes of keeping this a quiet neighborhood for their little girl, the couple head to the frat’s first rowdy party. What was supposed to be a quick noise complaint visit turned into a refreshing night out for Mac and Kelly. And after having what will probably be remembered as the best debate over “who is Batman,” Teddy and Mac form a bond and an understanding of trust is made. Unfortunately that trust is broken within 24 hours, and leads to an epic war between the two houses.
It is hard to even pick a side because both leaders of the house are written as such likeable characters. On one hand, you have a new father trying to prove to his wife and himself that he can handle being the responsible one, while still being cool. Then you have the devoted frat president who spends way too much time partying, and caring about the mark he leaves behind in his brotherhood rather than thinking about the real world that is ahead of him.
Neighbors is not just carried by their two stars. This film has a strong supporting comedic cast filled with even better cameos. Rose Byrne is the perfect mix of wit and wholesome beauty. Dave Franco plays Teddy’s Vice President, Pete, and shares great chemistry with his fraternity brother. Young Franco is easily following in the footsteps of his talented, successful older brother; and I look forward to seeing him in many more projects, hopefully in leading roles. A shout out also goes to The Mindy Project’s co-writer and cast member, Ike Barinholtz. Like on his sitcom, Barinholtz’s role as Rogen’s best friend may not be huge, but produces enough chuckles to make him memorable.
What is most satisfying about Neighbors is how it is more than just a hilarious slapstick comedy. There is heart and a sense of authenticity. A lot of us are afraid to grow up. It can feel as though we will be missing out on “the party,” when in reality, your life and how you choose to live it can be the most legendary party that never ends.
Rating: 4/5
Neighbors hits theaters May 9.
Originally posted on RedCarpetCrash.com
Rating: 4.5/5
It’s as true as it can be. Disney fans will be in bliss as they watch one of the most beloved classics come alive on stage. Beauty & the Beast performed as a Broadway musical may seem like a tough feat with the surely difficult theatrics that the play would need to pull off. Fortunately, AT&T Performing Arts Center’s Winspear Opera House put on a magical show that the whole family will enjoy.
Beauty & the Beast is one of the most beautiful tales of how the beauty within prevails over any outer appearance. When Belle (Hilary Maiberger) sacrifices her own freedom in exchange for her fathers, she is forced to stay in an enchanted castle that is run by an angry and bitter Beast (Darick Pead). To ease her distress, Belle is comforted by the other unusual members of the house who happen to be a candle stick, a clock, and tea pot. Little does she know that the fate of everyone around her, including the Beast, hinge on whether or not she can fall in love with someone who looks like a monster.
Following the original Disney animated feature, this musical still contains the same script and music, but has added a few originals songs that go along with the familiar score. The new songs blended in perfectly with the story, but they were no match for the classic soundtrack we all love to sing. When “Gaston” is performed by the tavern patrons and the well-played arrogant Gaston (Tim Rogan), you might think “it doesn’t get any better than this.” The musical number is humorous, creatively choreographed, and thoroughly entertaining. But you have spoken too soon, because you have yet to witness the luminous, breath taking, work of art that is “Be Our Guest.” The song begins with the voice of Hassan Nazari-Robati, who gives a stand out performance as the hilarious talking candle stick, Lumiere. Hassan, along with the eloquent Kristin Stewart (not Twilight) who plays Mrs. Potts, lead the rest of the enchanted objects in a colorful dance that is enhanced by the vibrant set design (Stanley A. Meyer) and well produced lighting (Natasha Katz). I am delighted to know that I will surely dream about dancing plates and silverware tonight.
They could not have cast a more perfect Belle. Hilary Maiberger is no stranger to playing a Disney princess. Having played Cinderella and Jasmine in previous musicals, she handled the role of Belle with such ease, and not once did she over act her character. Her vocals are incredible, best out of the entire cast. When she sings, goose bumps appear, as well as a smile on your face. Her leading man played by Darick Pead did a fantastic job as the intimidating, yet sometimes juvenile Beast.
Beauty & the Beast the musical throws in some extra comedic moments that will only add to your laughter, and music that you will want to add to your play list. I could go on and on about this lively performance, but I’d rather you allow yourself to be a guest and take pleasure in this remarkable “tale as old as time.”
PATRICIA HEATON EXEC-PRODUCES AND CO-STARS IN THE NEW FEATURE FILM COMEDY: ‘MOMS’ NIGHT OUT’
America’s Top TV Mom Ignites Family Humor with Sarah Drew, Sean Astin, and Trace Adkins . . . In Theaters May 9
With a laugh-packed mix of big-screen, small-screen and music stars, Patricia Heaton and her husband, David Hunt have executive-produced MOMS’ NIGHT OUT, a new kind of family comedy in theaters May 9, 2014–just in time for Mother’s Day.
From TriStar Pictures, distributors of SOUL SURFER and COURAGEOUS, MOMS’ NIGHT OUT has early audiences raving about its laugh-out-loud portrayal of the chaos of parenting. With its PG rating this clean comedy will be a hit with families everywhere.
Heaton is one of America’s top female comedic actresses and the well-known star of Everybody Loves Raymond and The Middle, two of the most popular television comedies of all time. She joins Sarah Drew, (Grey’s Anatomy), Sean Astin (LORD OF THE RINGS and RUDY), and platinum-selling country recording artist Trace Adkins (THE LINCOLN LAWYER) in a story both hilarious and endearing for its spot-on view on parenting and real-life family relationships.
VIEW TRAILER, CLICK HERE
In the story, Allyson (Sarah Drew) and her friends long for a peaceful, grown-up evening of dinner and talk–a long-overdue “moms’ night out.” But to indulge in high heels, adult conversation, and not having to cut anyone else’s meat, their husbands will need to watch the kids for a few hours. What could go wrong?
“Every mom and dad in America–whether they have toddlers, tweens or teens–is going to love this movie,” Heaton said. “It’s a hilarious family-friendly celebration of the trials and triumphs of parenting–a joyous affirmation of the world’s hardest but most important job.”
Drew loves the layered storylines–a family comedy several times over. “And then it’s a full-on love story about two people who already know each other,” she said. “Every mom knows that juggling act. And every audience that sees it says, “That’s my life!”
Co-writer/director Jon Erwin says the best humor begins at home. “My brother, Andy, and I love being dads, and everything in this movie happened to us . . . just last week!”
MOMS’ NIGHT OUT is a Kevin Downes Production of an Erwin Brothers Film. MOMS’ NIGHT OUT is directed by The Erwin Brothers, and produced by Kevin Downes in association with Four Boys Films and Pure Flix Entertainment. MOMS’ NIGHT OUT also features David Hunt (24), Andrea Logan White (REVELATION ROAD), Robert Amaya (COURAGEOUS), Abbie Cobb (NCIS: LA), Harry Shum, Jr. (Glee) and Alex Kendrick (COURAGEOUS).
Written by Andrea Nasfell and Jon Erwin, MOMS’ NIGHT OUT was filmed in Birmingham, Ala., and is being distributed by AFFIRM Films and Provident Films. MOMS’ NIGHT OUT is rated PG for mild thematic elements and some action.
For interviews, contact: Kelsey Clark kclark@alliedim.com 972-957-3156
To learn more, visit: MomsNightOutMovie.com
Who needs a complex story-line when you’ve got talented musicians to carry a film?
Matthew Porterfield’s official Sundance selection, I Used To Be Darker, is truly a beautiful and expressive piece of art starring and featuring music by singer-songwriter Kim Taylor. The songs played throughout the film are not only for background, but also an extension of the dialogue.
When Taryn (Deragh Campbell), a Northern Irish runaway, finds herself in trouble in Ocean City, she decides to stay with her aunt (Kim Taylor) and uncle (Ned Oldham) in Baltimore hoping to escape her problems. But little does she know her aunt and uncle are having problems of their own. Tayrn’s visit happens to be at a time when the two are trying deal with the end of their marriage. The couple and their daughter, Abby (Hannah Gross), are having an even harder time than they expected. Abby can’t even look at her mother. Her father is heart broken and trying to maintain a positive demeanor. All the while, Taryn does everything she can to avoid telling her own parents where she is.
The premise itself is intriguing, and I believe Porterfield accomplished the goal he was trying to achieve in the film. Everyone is trying to avoid dealing with their issues or talking about their problems. Some of the characters express their feelings through song, while others bottle up their emotions until finally unleashing it during a random outburst.
The most enjoyable scenes were when the characters finally expressed their frustration verbally. More specifically, one of the best scenes is performed by the exceptional Hannah Gross, when she randomly barges into Taryn’s room shouting at her to call her parents. In that moment, you are able to connect with Abby and the pain she is going through.
Articulated through song and music, I Used To Be Darker tells a heart-breaking story of family tribulations, people finding each other and letting each other go, and how to hopefully find love again. Though I can’t say this film will appeal to all audiences, music and indie film lovers should find it deep and touching.
I Used To Be Darker is out on DVD January 28th.
I Used To Be Darker Trailer HD
Originally posted on RedCarpetCrash.com
With Christmas 2 days away, one of the best ways to get in the holiday spirit is to watch some great Christmas classics. And like most everyone, I have my favorite Christmas movies I must watch every year as part of the holiday tradition. For all you who might be wondering what to rent for Christmas Eve/Day, here are my top 5 suggestions!
5. Elf
For the Santa: If you’re looking for a comedy that includes a great storyline involving Santa and the magic of the Christmas spirit, look no further. Watching Buddy (Will Ferrell) try to adapt in New York with his biological father (James Caan) is entertaining for adults and children. Elf has so many unforgettable scenes, including an awkwardly hilarious scene with Games of Thrones star, Peter Dinklage.
4. Just Friends
For the Anna Faris: This may not seem like the typical holiday film, but I assure it’s one of the best. While visiting his hometown during Christmas, Chris Brander (Ryan Renolds) comes face-to-face with his old high school crush, Jamie (Amy Smart), with whom he was best friends. Since being rejected by Jamie, Chris has become a handsome ladies man and hopes to finally win her over. But not with out some obstacle…Que Anna Faris as the psycho, conceded pop star who’s obsessed with Chris. Be prepared for Faris to provide, quotable lines, WTF moments, and numerous laughs.
3. The Family Stone
For the Tears: The majority of Christmas movies tend to tug at our heart strings, and though films like It’s a Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street might be the more traditional holiday tear- jerkers, I prefer to grab the tissues for the all-star cast in The Family Stone. It’s not all sad, there’s plenty of comic relief and romance to make you feel all kinds of emotions while watching. Most importantly we see a true example of a free-spirited family who love each other unconditionally.
2. Scrooged
For the Adaptation: There have been numerous versions of the timeless classic, A Christmas Carol. From the big screen hits, to some even more dreadful TV movies. But no matter what remake I have seen, nothing beats the 1988 adaptation, Scrooged. Bill Murray does a fantastic job as the heartless TV executive who is visited by 3 spirits to help change his ways on Christmas Eve.
1. While You Were Sleeping
For the Family: I call this film the “whole package family Christmas movie.” Original, smart, funny, romantic, and heartwarming. After Lucy (Sandra Bullock), a lonely ticket collector, saves Peter’s (Peter Gallagher) life; he falls into a coma. While at the hospital, Peter’s family accidentally mistakes her as his fiancé. As they welcome her into the family with open arms, she is unable to resist the kindness and love of a family she has always hoped to be a part of. But of course not everyone in the family buys her story, leading to comical encounters and a blossoming romance. It’s the perfect film that showcases what Christmas is really all about- spending time with your family. And remember, you don’t necessarily have to be born into a family to be apart of one.
Honorable Mentions: How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Christmas Vacation, The Santa Clause