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...
“Drop” premiered at this year’s South by Southwest with rave reviews about the exhilarating new thriller. It’s not easy to get back into the dating world, especially after a traumatic relationship. Director Christopher Landon takes audiences on a horrifying first date in what might eventually become an instant cult classic.
The film follows Violet, a widowed mother, played by “White Lotus” star Meghann Fahy who is going on her first date in years. With the help of her sister, who’s agreed to babysit her son while out, she musters up the courage to put herself back out there and meets with a charming photographer played by Brandon Sklenar. Unfortunately, this potential for romance turns into a mother’s worst nightmare as Violet is bombarded with anonymous texts that threaten her son’s life. Trapped in a high rise, upscale restaurant, she must figure out who is behind the messages to save both her son and her date’s life.
If you’re familiar with Landon’s work on films like “Freaky” or “Happy Death Day”, you’ll have an idea of his style of horror. He adds an element of comedy that allows you to breathe a little easier through his character’s high stressed situations. While there are moments of comic relief, “Drop” creates an anxiety-inducing setting with time constraints and focus on suspense. But don’t be fooled by its frightening premise, the film has a few jump scares, but it never takes itself too seriously. In fact, expect a few eye rolls when entering ridiculous and campy territory. It’s Fahy’s devoted and captivating performance that will sell you on any absurd action.
The heart of this film lies with Meghann Fahy, who continues to shine in any role she plays. But “Drop” succeeds in blending romance, wit, and tension into a simple yet tech-savvy, entertaining thrill ride that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
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.
Lucy Hale continues to slay in the horror genre, this time
adding a hilarious romantic comedy element to her new whodunit thriller, “F
Marry Kill”.
Directed by Laura Murphy, the story follows Hale as Eva, a true crime junkie obsessed with the latest serial killer that’s targeting women on dating apps. After wasting 8 years with an egotistical boyfriend, she finally decides to put herself back out into the dating world. With encouragement from all her friends except for her happily married best friend, Kelly (Virginia Gardner), she takes a stab at the dating apps. Though hesitant, she succeeds in finding three seemingly nice potential suitors (Brendan Morgan, Samer Salem, and Jedidiah Goodacre). But as the news unveils alarming evidence about the infamous serial killer, Eva begins to suspect the new men in her life. This leads her to question which one of her three dates is an f-boy, marriage material, or a killer.
While the plot may sound ridiculous, it is surprisingly creative and laugh out loud funny. Hale leads the cast with a crass yet charmingly captivating performance. While her character is an overthinker and makes some obviously idiotic choices, she is relatable and hilarious. This is easily one of her most entertaining roles to date. The supporting cast around her kills it with their comedic timing, elevating the already witty script.
Fans of a good murder mystery can appreciate the clever storytelling.
Albeit a little formulaic, there is still some originality sprinkled in with its
topical references about social media and dating app, along with the film’s humorous
path and clues leading up to a killer reveal.
After a plethora of remakes and heavy award season dramas, “F Mary Kill” offers mischievous fun with a stellar cast. The film is a re-watchable comedic murder mystery that makes it the perfect watch for a friend’s night out.
Love is in the air AND in the palm of our hands as the new sci-fi romantic thriller, Companion, pushes all the right buttons for an instant cult classic.
Filmmaker Drew Hancock’s directorial feature follows a seemingly happy couple, Iris and Josh, who go on a weekend getaway with friends at a remote cabin. But things take a chaotic and bloody turn when it’s revealed Iris is a robot companion. The less you know about this plot the better, as the number of twists and turns are endless. But “Companion is already being raved about as the first best film of the year. What I can tell you is that it excels through enthralling performances by the entire cast, especially stars, Jack Quaid and Sophie Thatcher.
Horror fans may recognize Thatcher from the popular series, Yellowjackets or more recently the acclaimed psychological thriller, Heretic. But after this role, it’s safe to say, Thatcher is going to be an unforgettable talent we will be seeing a lot more of. Aside from the fact that she can cry from one eye at a time on command, she impressively emotes a robotic character who is truly in love and can feel every emotion. And we feel for her. Quaid, who normally plays the good guy, tackles the villainous role in a subtle and humorous manner. All the while the two have great on-screen chemistry. There isn’t anything too revolutionary in the film, but it does entertainingly warn audiences about the dangers of technology and why it’s best not to have full control of your partner.
Companion” touches on feminism, greed, loneliness, and hones in on how we should treat our significant others with respect, while taking audiences on an unpredictable and hilarious thrill ride. It’s an unexpected must-see that’s sure to capture your heart.
“At a retreat in Morocco, a woman meets a young man whose acquaintanceship evolves into an intoxicating, life-altering love affair.” LONELY PLANET is a lighthearted, beautiful romance everyone can enjoy!
I had the opportunity to sit down with the stars of the film, Academy Award winner, Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth to talk about the film, who they are most comfortable with, places that have made them feel modest, and more!
LONELY PLANET streams on Netflix October 11, 2024.
Based on the New York Times Best Seller by Colleen Hoover, “It Ends with Us” stars Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, who gives a truly inspiring performance to a layered character.
Lively plays Lily Bloom, who overcomes a traumatic childhood and sets off to open her own flower shop. She meets a handsome neurosurgeon and the two begin a romantic relationship. But things take a dark turn when she starts to see signs of abuse similar to her past. She then realizes she must rely on her own strength to break a violent pattern and make a difficult choice for a brighter future. While the film might shy away from overly graphic images, they are not shying away from the issue of domestic violence. The approach is painfully realistic, in that it’s not often talked about and those involved may want to focus more on the positive in their life versus acknowledging any red flags.
Whenever a film is adapted from a book, you can always tell there are missing pieces that would have probably added more to the plot. At times “It Ends with Us” does feel rushed and audiences will want more from the characters. Luckily the film should satisfy readers and even encourage new ones. The film does a wonderful job at appealing to the emotions and giving an authentic perspective. There is a fine line to what may be considered romantic or aggressive. And this movie cleverly portrays how one might see things the way they want to instead of how they really are. While this film has romance and deals with a serious subject matter, this is a story about a strong, resilient woman, who is much more than what has happened to her. She is a daughter, a friend, a mother, a business owner, and she stands for hope.
The entire cast is fantastic, especially the much-needed comic relief by Jenny Slate, but it’s Lively and Baldoni who pull you in from the start with their polarizing performances. “It Ends with Us” is an unforgettable, compelling story that will move all audiences.
This week I review the new romantic comedy, “Fly me to the Moon.” The film follows marketing maven Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson), who wreaks havoc on launch director Cole Davis’s (Channing Tatum) already difficult task. When the White House deems the mission too important to fail, Jones is directed to stage a fake moon landing as back-up.
“Fly Me to the Moon” opens in
theaters on July 12, 2024.
Ryan Gosling takes on his most thrilling role yet in Universal Pictures newest comedy, The Fall Guy. It’s best not to take this film too seriously, it’s based on the 1981 television series and pays tribute to stunt work, taking full advantage of any opportunity for high-flying tricks. To say this film is action-packed would be an understatement.
Gosling plays Colt Seavers, a retired stuntman, who quit the industry after a severe injury. He is pulled back into the job with the hopes of rekindling a romance with his ex-girlfriend, Jody, who is now the director of a blockbuster film. The only problem is the star of the movie is missing and Colt must find him before Jody’s film is canned.
At first, “The Fall Guy” throws a lot at you at once. It takes a minute to find the groove of the film, but once the film finds its footing, audiences are in for a non-stop, electrifying, good time filled with humor thanks to the witty dialogue by writers, Drew Pearce and Glen A. Larson. Through all the explosions and fight sequences, there’s a gripping story about the typically unrecognized hard work of stuntmen and women. We’re shown how they are repeatedly put into life-threatening situations for a quick “magical” shot that’s pivotal to a movie. But director David Leitch takes this premise one step further by adding a romantic comedy element that only elevates the story.
Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt dazzle on-screen. The two of them surprisingly convey enough heart to charm audiences even while they make you burst out laughing from their several comedic scenes. “The Fall Guy” is an exciting moviegoing experience, providing jaw-dropping action, loveable leads, killer soundtrack, and ridiculous chaotic fun. Making it the perfect popcorn flick.
“Solène, a 40-year-old single mom, begins an unexpected romance with 24-year-old Hayes Campbell, the lead singer of August Moon, the hottest boy band on the planet.”
I got a chance to speak with incredibly talented filmmaker, Michael Showalter about his new romantic comedy that digs deep and pulls at your heartstrings.
I highly recommend everyone watch “The Idea of You” when it streams on Prime Video on May 2, 2024.
Sometimes you can get lucky at a wedding and sometimes you can get lucky in love. For Jane (Lucy Hale) and Will (Nat Wolff), the jury is still out. The two have an immediate spark at a friend’s wedding and almost hook up in a coat closet. Instead of jumping straight to bed with each other, they decide to pump the brakes and open up about their past relationships. Recipe for disaster? Once everything is revealed, it’s certainly doesn’t come without its challenges for the potentially new couple.
“Which Brings Me to You” starts out in a cliche boy meets girl manner. And though, the film never really goes anywhere that original, Lucy Hale and Nat Wolff’s chemistry revives a tired formula.
Hale and Wolff’s onscreen presence pulls you in. It’s clear they both have something dark in their past and you’re intrigued as to why they are both still single. The two bring an authentic portrayal to their characters. Neither one is over the top unrealistic. Will is not some extra, douche bag player type, whose changing his ways for the good girl. And Jane isn’t really the “good girl”. Both are flawed in understandable ways, but they have been trying to change their ways even before they met. They are not trying to become better people for each other, they are becoming better people for themselves. This is a much-needed narrative in the romance genre.
Notice I said “romance” genre and not “romantic comedy”. That’s because this is not a comedy. It lacks humor and it’s not advertised as a comedy. But I could see how one may expect laughs given the premise and trailer clips. “Which Brings Me to You” is more of a thoughtful conversation and character study of two people who are still healing from their past scars.
The film’s biggest weak spot is failing to flesh out their protagonists and their former lovers. Certain flashbacks of their previous romances are rushed, and their exes end up feeling more like props than humans. This creates too many unanswered questions, and ultimately, that holds back the film’s full potential.
“Which Brings Me to You” won’t stand out among other romances, but it tells a sweet enough story that’s enhanced through the effortless performances by Lucy Hale and Nat Wolff.
Rating: B-
“Which Brings Me to You” opens in theaters January 19, 2024.
