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...
Is Walt Disney’s newest live-action remake of the 1937 classic, “Snow White” the fairest of them all? Not quite, but it is certainly not the worst remake.
The film stars the musically talented songbird, Rachel Zegler as the fairest of them all and Gal Godot trades her golden lasso for a poison apple as the Evil Queen. For those not already familiar with the tale, it follows Snow White, a young woman who is forced to run away from her jealous stepmother, the Evil Queen, and seeks shelter in a cottage in the forest by seven new friends with distinct personalities. There are a few changes to the original story that is better left unspoiled, but what I can tease is the beautiful music by writers Benj Pasek & Justin Paul, known for “La La Land” and “The Greatest Showman”. The two add the magical Disney touch to the film with songs like “Waiting on a Wish”. And no surprise Zegler and Gadot do a fine job, fully committing to their characters and bringing life and more depth to the dynamic of their relationship that was never fully developed in the original movie.
Of course, with every Disney live-action remake, we ask, was this film necessary or worth making? In all honesty, not really. There has yet to be one that is truly “better” than the animated classics. The quality, the writing, and even the animation was so good for its time, that when we rewatch we can appreciate the wonder and awe felt during that time. Though I understand wanting to modernize the story, especially a dated damsel in distress plot. It’s nice to see these princesses have their own strength and not rely soley on a man to save them. What these remakes are trying to do is not bad, but maybe instead of trying to redo an already beloved tale, create an original “fairy-tale” story that would enhance new technology. Even an original story like “Cruella” is more inspiring to watch.
Regardless of live action or animated preference, the film is still an entertaining watch, with its toe-tapping Broadway style original songs, heartwarming moments, and stunning visuals, ‘Snow White” is a solid musical reimagining the worth seeing with the family in theaters.
It’s January so most moviegoers know this is what we call “dump month”, it’s where films like the new horror reboot, “Wolf Man” go to die. That’s right, this is not a rare January horror gem like MEGAN. Unfortunately, filmmaker Leigh Whannell fails to bring the wit and care he has provided in his past films.
The film stars Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner as a couple looking to reconnect and build a stronger relationship with their daughter, who is apparently disconnected from her working mom. This subplot is briefly mentioned, in an aimless way, and we’re supposed to feel for this family’s apparent struggle with no background or character development to their strained marriage. The only backstory is at the top of the film, where we see Abbott’s character, Blake, at a young age with his stern father in a remote house in the woods. It is there we first learn about the bigfoot type creature lurking in the forest. Fast forward 30 years later, Blake has learned about his father’s passing and now wants to take this opportunity to rebuild his own family with a trip to this abandon farmhouse. On their way there, they are attacked by an unseen animal, and as the night goes on, Blake begins to transform into something unrecognizable.
Early reactions called this film a hardcore, terrifying watch. Outside of a couple of jump scares, “Wolf Man” lacks fear, suspense, and most importantly, fun. We don’t expect a film like this to be groundbreaking or have an amazing story, but at the very least, provide some entertainment. The film is slow, spending most of its time sitting around in the dimly lit home waiting for the dad to turn full werewolf. This might have to do with Whannell’s attempt at a “deeper” story about how to parent and love your child. But this message is completely lost on audiences, as the film never finds its footing and the actors never fully commit to their performance. Both Abbott and Garner deserve more from their script and it’s evident, they showed up for the paycheck and nothing more.
Horror fans should still form their own opinion but be warned; besides a few creative shots and the previously mentioned scares, “Wolf Man” is more of a slow dumpster fire rather than a slow burn. It’s a predictable, uninspired story that’s all bark and no bite.
“Wicked” has been a beloved stage production. Wicked has been a beloved stage production. Now you can see the story on the big screen in theaters with the whole family during the holiday season. Visionary director Jon M. Chu, who brought us “Crazy Rich Asians” and “In the Heights” inspires audiences with a truly magical retelling of the emotional Broadway hit.
For those who don’t know the story, it’s about Elphaba, a young woman who’s misunderstood because of her green skin, and Glinda, a popular girl she meets at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. The two don’t get along at first, Glinda is completely unaware of how self-absorbed and offensive she is and Elphaba doesn’t make much of an effort with her. But when they are forced to room together, the two eventually get to know each other in a way that no one else has. They form a beautiful friendship that moviegoers can’t help but fall in love with. However, that friendship is challenged when they have what they hoped would be a dream meeting with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
The film 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. And in a lot of ways, I enjoy this story more. It raises the questions – are people born evil? Are those who claim to be heroes truly good? But more importantly, it sends a powerful message about not judging people for the way look, but for who they are on the inside. Thankfully, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s chemistry leaps off the screen. And if you have seen them during this press tour, it’s clear they have built a genuine friendship of their own. The two pour their hearts into unforgettable, award worthy performances. Especially, a hilarious and scene stealing Ariana Grande.
Though some have complained about the film’s nearly three-hour runtime, it allows for effective character development while impressively moving quickly and surprisingly leaves you wanting more. Thankfully, this is only the first part for the bold adaptation and fans can look forward to part 2 next year. In the meantime, this is the holiday film you want to see in theaters as you will be swept away by the dazzling visuals and moving musical numbers that undeniably defy gravity. “Wicked” is a breathtaking spectacle everyone can enjoy.
From an iconic sculpture to a wild robot. Peter Brown’s literary sensation comes to life in one of the most talked about films of the year. The Wild Robot is already a front runner for Best Animated Feature as its moving story is touching the hearts of all audiences.
The film follows an intelligent robot called Roz, who’s voiced by Academy Award winner, Lupita Nyong’o. After a shipwreck, Roz is stranded on an uninhabited island where to survive the harsh environment, she bonds with the island’s animals. After accidentally crushing a goose nest, a single egg survives and hatches to reveal a little baby goose. Roz decides her purpose on this island is to now raise the goose, now named Brightbill, as her own and help get him ready for the upcoming winter migration. She gains the help of a scheming Fox, voiced by Pedro Pascal and the three of them naturally become family. Roz is goal is to complete this mission before finding her way back home.
While the animation is stunning, the beauty of this movie is the simplicity. Director Chris Sanders has taken Peter Brown’s story and effectively touched on the current state of humanity, the impacts of global warming, and most importantly, the significance of compassion and motherhood. It may sound like a basic or familiar plot, but through its characters, visuals, and subtly it’s a surprisingly refreshing tale. Lupita Nyong’o and Kit Connor’s mother-son relationship is breath-taking and will likely make you want to immediately hug your own mother or parental figure in your life. It also reminds us; you don’t have to give birth to a child to give them life.
And though the film may have you reaching for tissues, The Wild Robot is also filled with plenty of laughs and thrills. It’s a wonderfully immersive family adventure featuring a superb cast with an unforgettable message audiences of all ages can relate to.
“The Wild Robot” is currently playing in theaters.
Mother’s have a tendency to want to care for everyone and handle everything. Making it hard for them to find any time for themselves. In the new comedy, “I’ll Be Right There”, Edie Falco stars as a mom who is constantly giving rides and all of herself to the loved ones in her life.
The film begins with Wanda (Falco) at the doctor’s office consoling her mom, Grace (Jeannie Berlin), who is convinced she has lung cancer. She then has to drive her pregnant daughter, Sarah (Kayli Carter) to the doctor’s office to check on the baby. After that she has to meet her son, Mark (Charlie Tahan) for his therapy appointment, where he shows clear signs of resentment towards his mother. You see, in addition to Wanda continuously trying her best to there for everyone, they don’t appear to be appreciative of her efforts. And Wanda’s ex-husband, Henry (Bradley Whitford) is no help because he’s too busy with his new wife and kids that he can’t seem to support either.
I know what I have described is far from groundbreaking and we’ve have certainly seen versions of this story before, but that doesn’t mean “I’ll Be Right There” isn’t offering something fresh. The heart and soul of this movie is Falco, who you connect with from the start. It’s her authentic and relatable performance as a mother who’s just trying to keep it all together that makes her so easy to care for her. She naturally shines and those around her are a solid supporting cast.
“I’ll Be Right There” has a simplistic charm to its mild story. The screenplay could have used a little more meat, but writer Jim Beggarly got the point across; writing about the ups and downs of family drama and Wanda being forced to re-examine herself. And in just under an hour and half, you will feel as though that comedic, yet bittersweet journey of self-discovery flew by.
After a family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her teenage daughter accidentally opens the portal to the afterlife. I review the long-awaited sequel to one of Michael Keaton’s legendary roles, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”.
“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is currently
playing in theaters.
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”. Like many, I was hesitant to the idea of a sequel. But after watching “Inside Out 2”, and meeting Anxiety, it all makes sense.
“Inside Out 2” follows Riley entering into her teen years, making room for new emotions right before she goes into High School. She and her two best friends, Bree and Grace, have been selected to go to a 3-day hockey camp. Everything seems to be going smoothly in Riley’s life until Bree and Grace inform her, they won’t be going to High School together due to different school zones. This puts Riley in a panic of who she will be friends with next year. Que, Anxiety and her close friends; Envy, Embarrassment, and Ennui. They all step in to try to navigate the unexpected situation, but Joy and her core group of emotions clash with them on to best help Riley.
Obviously, the first “Inside Out” is better than the sequel. But that’s because the element of surprise and awe has been revealed. Which is why the first film is one of the best Pixar films ever made. There was so much attention to detail and every second in that movie was intentional. It was clearly filmmakers Pete Doctor and Ronnie Del Carmen’s baby and all their hard work paid off. They have passed the torch to director Kelsey Mann this time around and he respects the craft he’s been given to work with, building on this world and adding value instead of a cheap remake.
Introducing audiences to Anxiety at a time in our lives where we all felt this emotion, but probably didn’t know how to define it, is beneficial to younger and older viewers. With hope, it encourages children to understand their feelings and why they are feeling it. Anxiety is voiced by Maya Hawke, who brings out the vibrant energy and panic you’d imagine from the emotion. More of the attention to detail lies in her and not so much from her buddies. Though all the newcomers do a fine job, they won’t be as memorable as Anxiety or Joy and her core friends. Speaking of Joy, Amy Poehler returns as they happy-go-lucky emotion who is still trying to see everything in a positive light. Her voice is the backbone to this franchise and truly is a joy to hear. Phyllis Smith as Sadness is still role/emotion she brilliantly gives life to.
I do think the setting of a 3-day hockey camp was a little limiting to the story. I would have rather seen Riley navigate her emotions starting High School with no friends versus trying to make new ones at camp with her best friends present. There is so much anxiety when start freshman year and there’s a lot the filmmakers could have done with that potential story, but what they did give us, isn’t bad by any means.
“Inside Out 2” still sparkles from its lovable characters and relatable storylines told through emotions we all have. Providing a family-friendly avenue to discuss our feelings and mental health with loved ones.
“Inside Out 2” brings Joy and her whole group back to help Riley as she enters her teen years and welcome new emotions, including, anxiety! I spoke with the wonderful 2 x Emmy winner Tony Hale, who voices Fear in the film. Tony discussed the movie and some of his emotions he felt as a teen.
“When the love of Maddie’s life gets engaged to her best friend, she puts her feelings aside to be a bridesmaid at their wedding in Ireland.” Netflix continues to revive the romcom genre! “Irish Wish” is the feel-good love story we all need this spring.
I had the honor of speaking with Lindsay Lohan, Ayesha Curry, and Ed Speleers about the film, when they started putting themselves first, wedding compromises, what makes them feel confident, and more!
Check out the full interview and be sure watch “Irish Wish” when it streams on Netflix March 15!
