Archives for : Susan Kamyab Stephens
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.
Rating: C+
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.
“F Marry Kill” Is currently playing theaters.
Rating: B
Best Picture
- “Anora” (Neon)
- “The Brutalist” (A24)
- “A Complete Unknown” (Searchlight)
- “Conclave” (Focus)
- “Dune: Part Two” (Warner Bros.)
- “Emilia Pérez” (Netflix)
- “I’m Still Here” (Sony Classics)
- “Nickel Boys” (Amazon/MGM)
- “The Substance” (Mubi)
- “Wicked” (Universal)
Will Win: Conclave
Could Win: Anora
Want to Win: Wicked or Emilia Perez
Best Director
- Sean Baker, “Anora”
- Brady Corbet, “The Brutalist”
- James Mangold, “A Complete Unknown”
- Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez”
- Coralie Fargeat, “The Substance”
Will Win: Sean Baker
Could Win: Brady Corbet
Want to Win: Coralie Fargeat
Best Actress
- Cynthia Erivo, “Wicked”
- Karla Sofia Gascón, “Emilia Pérez”
- Mikey Madison, “Anora”
- Demi Moore, “The Substance”
- Fernanda Torres, “I’m Still Here”
Will Win: Demi Moore
Could Win: Mikey Madison
Want to Win: Demi Moore
Best Actor
- Adrian Brody, “The Brutalist”
- Timothée Chalamet, “A Complete Unknown”
- Colman Domingo, “Sing Sing”
- Ralph Fiennes, “Conclave”
- Sebastian Stan, “The Apprentice”
Will Win: Adrian Brody
Could Win: Timothée Chalamet
Want to Win: Timothée Chalamet or Colman Domingo
Best Supporting Actress
- Monica Barbaro, “A Complete Unknown”
- Ariana Grande, “Wicked”
- Felicity Jones, “The Brutalist”
- Isabella Rossellini, “Conclave”
- Zoe Saldaña, “Emilia Pérez”
Will Win: Zoe Saldaña
Could Win: Ariana Grande
Want to Win: Zoe Saldaña
Best Supporting Actor
- Yura Borisov, “Anora”
- Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain”
- Edward Norton, “A Complete Unknown”
- Guy Pearce, “The Brutalist”
- Jeremy Strong, “The Apprentice”
Will Win: Kieran Culkin
Could Win: No Contest
Want to Win: Kieran Culkin
Best Original Screenplay
- “Anora,” Sean Baker
- “The Brutalist,” Brady Corbet & Mona Fastvold
- “A Real Pain,” Jesse Eisenberg
- “September 5,” Tim Fehlbaum & Moritz Binder
- “The Substance,” Coralie Fargeat
Will Win: Anora
Could Win: A Real Pain
Want to Win: The Substance
Best Adapted Screenplay
- “A Complete Unknown,” Jay Cocks & James Mangold
- “Conclave,” Peter Straughan
- “Emilia Pérez,” Jacques Audiard, Thomas Bidegain & Nicolas Livecchi
- “Nickel Boys,” RaMell Ross & Joslyn Barnes
- “Sing Sing,” Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar, Clarence Maclin & John “Divine G” Whitfield
Will Win: Conclave
Could Win: Nickel Boys
Want to Win: Conclave
Best International Feature
- “I’m Still Here,” Walter Salles (Brazil)
- “The Girl with the Needle,” Magnus von Horn (Denmark)
- “Emilia Pérez,” Jacques Audiard (France)
- “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” Mohammad Rasoulof (Germany)
- “Flow,” Miguel Gomes (Latvia)
Will Win: Emilia Perez
Could Win: I’m Still Here
Want to Win: Emilia Perez
Best Documentary Feature
- “Black Box Diaries,” Shiori Itō (MTV)
- “No Other Land,” Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham & Rachel Szor (No distributor)
- “Porcelain War,” Brendan Bellomo & Slava Leontyev (Picturehouse)
- “Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat,” Johan Grimonprez (Kino Lorber)
- “Sugarcane,” Julian Brave NoiseCat & Emily Kassie (Nat Geo)
Will Win: No Other Land
Could Win: Porcelain War
Want to Win: Any of them
Best Animated Feature
- “Flow” (Janus Films/Sideshow)
- “Inside Out 2” (Disney/Pixar)
- “Memoir of a Snail” (IFC Films)
- “Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl” (Aardman/Netflix)
- “The Wild Robot” (Dreamworks/Universal)
Will Win: The Wild Robot
Could Win: Flow
Want to Win: Inside Out 2 or The Wild Robot
Best Cinematography
- “The Brutalist,” Lol Crawley
- “Dune: Part Two,” Greig Fraser
- “Emilia Pérez,” Paul Guillaume
- “Maria,” Edward Lachman
- “Nosferatu,” Jarin Blaschke
Will Win: The Brutalist
Could Win: Dune: Part Two
Want to Win: Dune: Part Two
Best Costume Design
- “A Complete Unknown,” Arianne Phillips
- “Conclave,” Lisy Christl
- “Gladiator II,” Janty Yates
- “Nosferatu,” Linda Muir
- “Wicked,” Paul Tazewell
Will Win: Wicked
Could Win: Nosferatu
Want to Win: Wicked
Best Film Editing
- “Anora,” Sean Baker
- “The Brutalist,” Dávid Jancsó
- “Conclave,” Nick Emerson
- “Emilia Pérez,” Juliette Welfling
- “Wicked,” Myron Kerstein
Will Win: Conclave
Could Win: Anora
Want to Win: Wicked
Best Production Design
- “The Brutalist,” Judy Becker
- “Conclave,” Suzie Davies
- “Dune: Part Two,” Patrice Vermette
- “Nosferatu,” Craig Lathrop
- “Wicked,” Nathan Crowley
Will Win: Wicked
Could Win: Dune: Part Two
Want to Win: Wicked
Best Original Score
- “The Brutalist,” Daniel Blumberg
- “Conclave,” Volker Bertelmann
- “Emilia Pérez,” Clément Ducol & Camille
- “Wicked,” John Powell & Stephen Schwartz
- “The Wild Robot,” Kris Bowers
Will Win: The Brutalist
Could Win: Conclave
Want to Win: Wicked
Best Original Song
- “Never Too Late,” “Elton John: Never Too Late” (Elton John & Brandi Carlile)
- “El Mal,” “Emilia Pérez” (Clement Ducol, Camille & Jacques Audiard)
- “Mi Camino,” “Emilia Pérez” (Clement Ducol & Camille)
- “Like a Bird,” “Sing Sing” (Adrian Quesada & Abraham Alexander)
- “The Journey,” “The Six Triple Eight” (Diane Warren)
Will Win: El Mal
Could Win: The Journey
Want to Win: El Mal
Best Sound
- “A Complete Unknown”
- “Dune: Part Two”
- “Emilia Pérez”
- “Wicked”
- “The Wild Robot”
Will Win: Dune: Part Two
Could Win: A Complete Unknown
Want to Win: Dune: Part Two
Best Visual Effects
- “Alien: Romulus”
- “Better Man”
- “Dune: Part Two”
- “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes”
- “Wicked”
Will Win: Dune: Part Two
Could Win: Wicked
Want to Win: Dune: Part Two
Best Makeup and Hairstyling
- “A Different Man”
- “Emilia Pérez”
- “Nosferatu”
- “The Substance”
- “Wicked”
Will Win: The Substance
Could Win: Nosferatu
Want to Win: The Substance
Best Documentary Short
- “Death by Numbers”
- “I Am Ready, Warden”
- “Incident”
- “Instruments of a Beating Heart”
- “The Only Girl in the Orchestra”
Will Win: The Only Girl in the Orchestra
Could Win: I Am Ready, Warden
Want to Win: The Only Girl in the Orchestra
Best Animated Short
- “Beautiful Men”
- “In the Shadow of the Cypress”
- “Magic Candies”
- “Wander to Wonder”
- “Yuck!”
Will Win: Wander to Wonder
Could Win: Yuck!
Want to Win: Wander to Wonder
Best Live-Action Short
- “A Lien”
- “Anuja”
- “I’m Not a Robot”
- “The Last Ranger”
- “The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent”
Will Win: Anuja
Could Win: The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent
Want to Win: Anuja
THE OSCARS ARE SET TO AIR LIVE, MARCH 2, ON ABC
No surprise that the most recent Marvel tale is crushing it at the box office. “Captain America: Brave New World” is a typical superhero film that still makes for a thrilling good time.
The film follows the events after the Disney+ series, which officially dubbed Sam Wilson as the new Captain America. A few years later he is more established in his new position, working for the United States government, with reservations about the new president, Thaddeus Ross, played by Harrison Ford. But when an attempt on Thaddeus’ life causes chaos. Sam must grab his shield and soar into action to uncover the motive behind a deadly global plan. Filmmaker Julius Onah’s daring whirl at this genre pays off for the most part as he succeeds in capturing the heart of a beloved character we want to know more about, while providing enough high-flying entertainment to keep audiences satisfied and engaged.
While the story is formulaic and I think Marvel needs to let us slowly digest their content, I can appreciate the effort in character development. Anthony Mackie thrives in the title he’s deservingly earned. Mackie provides depth and authenticity that humanizes his character. We’ve known the previous Falcon since 2014 when he was introduced in “The Winter Soldier”, and to see how far Mackie and his character have come is kind of heartwarming, especially for Marvel fans. There are flaws to this film, but they do not lie with Mackie. However, the villains lack substance, and the plot is a bit overcrowded, but this set up of a new and darker Marvel Universe with a more relatable lead, does have potential for the future.
“Captain America: Brave New World” is a box-office smash you want to see in theaters. With its gripping action-packed sequences and now, iconic red Hulk, the film is a riveting sci-fi theatrical experience.
Rating: B
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.
Rating: A-
“Companion” is currently playing 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.
Rating: D
“Wolf Man” opens in theaters January 17, 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.
Trevor’s Top 10
10. Alien: Romulus
9. Blink Twice
8. The Order
7. Saturday Night
6. Late Night with the Devil
5. A Real Pain
4. Civil War
3. A Complete Unknown
2. Deadpool & Wolverine
1. Dune: Part Two
What happens after the career you’ve invested a majority of your life in suddenly comes to an end? It’s a stirring thought that can make you question what matters most in life. Gia Coppola’s newest drama, “The Last Showgirl” beautifully portrays the heartbreak of this challenging crossroad.
Pamela Anderson stars as Shelly, a seasoned Vegas showgirl, who must plan for her future when her show abruptly closes after a 30-year run. The film also stars Academy Award winner Jamie Lee Curtis, Brenda Song, Kiernan Shipka, Billie Lourd, and Dave Bautisa, who all do a fantastic job, but it’s Anderson’s quietly captivating performance that steals the show. This career-defining role makes you wonder why Anderson hasn’t been given the opportunity to shine like this sooner. However, we can only hope this film will lead to her being cast in more breathtaking roles.
The movie as a whole is simple, but less is more. In its brief runtime, “The Last Showgirl” exemplifies in making audiences feel for all these women and their next steps, while focusing on Shelly’s journey. We learn she gave up a lot for what she felt was her “dream” career. Including a meaningful relationship with her daughter, Hannah (Lourd). And unfortunately, performing as a Vegas showgirl, doesn’t necessarily set the stage for you as an actress.
Shelly as a sorrowful road ahead of her and through the brilliant of work of Anderson and Coppola, we feel Shelly’s pain every step of the way. While the film’s plot is thin, its depth and emotions are heavy. “The Last Showgirl” stays with you and truly dazzles as a raw and polarizing character study.
Rating: A-
“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.
Rating: A+