Backstage Pass – Hollywood360 Radio: Recent Episodes
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https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/transformers-one.mp3Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax/Optimus Prime), left, and Brian Tyree Henry (D-16/Megatron) star in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO Present In Association with NEW REPUBLIC PICTURES A di BONAVENTURA PICTURES Production A TOM DESANTO / DON MURPHY Production A BAY FILMS Production “TRANSFORMERS ONE”
“Transformers One” is the 8th movie since the series began in 2007; yes, I’ve seen all of them. They are based on Hasbro toys and can be changed to any form. The robots change to a car, plane, or even a bumblebee, which includes superpowers of flight and strength. The powers are controlled by a round cog that is located in their chest. The exciting news is about the new director, Oscar® winner Josh Cooley (Toy Story 4); he says the goal is to create a movie that will appeal to most ages. You can imagine my excitement when I read the press notes as, finally, we can enjoy a kid-friendly Transformers movie.
The script is based on the origin story of Transformer legends Optimus Prime and Megatron. The setting is the alien world of Cybertron, and the younger versions have different names; Prime is Orion Pax, voiced by Chris Hemsworth, and Megatron, and D-16 is voiced by Brian Tyree Henry. The young friends dream of earning their own cogs someday so they can transform and have powers.
There’s so much to champion here, starting with the vision of director Josh Cooley to the groundbreaking animation; the set designs introduce a new level of cinematic artistry to the franchise as the new look is stunning, not to mention realistic. The artistry is gorgeous, as each character that’s introduced is given a signature look and unique script lines. The animation, in particular, is a visual feast, with each frame a testament to the skill and dedication of the animators. The voice cast also includes Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Buscemi, Laurence Fishburne, and Jon Hamm.
The back story gives us the reasons why Optimus Prime and Megatron are at odds, as their world as mining bots in the alien world Cybertron is pretty dismal. They both hope that Sentinel Prime (Jon Hamm) will someday let them earn cogs so they will have the ability to transform. Although, when an act to prove their worth lands them in an even lower, more depressing level of the mines, they discover the only way is to find the Matrix of Leadership themselves on the planet’s surface. Their mining supervisor, Elita (Scarlett Johansson), goes along for the ride as they discover the hidden truths of their stratified society, including the unfair distribution of resources and the suppression of individuality.
The voice cast is excellent; I was pleased to see that Elita (Scarlett Johansson) was given so much screen time and a central character as she helps in their plan. Here, for the first time, she becomes an authentic female Transformer. Bumblebee is mostly a silent character in other films, although director Cooley wanted to feature him as well. Saying, “We decided to make him extremely talkative. In fact, he never stopped talking, and I immediately thought of Keegan for the role. While watching the film, the line I wrote on my notepad about Bumblebee is when his captors say, Lita asks, “Why is he gaged?” the reply is, “He wouldn’t stop talking!” Lita says, “Even when he was unconscious?” the reply, “Especially when he was unconscious.” This brought uproarious laughter from the audience, which included myself.
“Transformers On” is the best of the series. It is relatable to all ages, humorous, and features fully fleshed-out characters. The gorgeous animation is the icing on the cake. Just know that the word “Hell” is said a few times. The characters are not just robots, they are individuals with their own hopes, dreams, and struggles, making them easy to connect with.
Sarah Knight Adamson© September 22, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/beetlejuice-two.mp3I met Michael Keaton in 2022 at an awards ceremony, he was wonderful to speak with. Photo Credit: Sarah Knight Adamson
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” is the sequel to the original 1988 film “Beetlejuice,” with Tim Burton returning as director and Michael Keaton reprising his role as the beloved Beetlejuice. Keaton shines throughout the film with his nuanced performance, bringing the character to life with subtle gestures and expressions that evoke laughter and applause from the audience. In many ways, this movie outshines the original as Keaton’s presence is prominent from start to finish, and he exceeds all expectations with his portrayal of Beetlejuice.
The script by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar brings back familiar faces from the original cast and introduces Jenna Ortega as Astrid, the daughter of Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder). The story begins with Delia (Catherine O’Hara) informing Lydia about her father’s death, with an interesting use of stop-motion animation to explain the character’s fate. However, this part of the movie felt a bit lengthy, especially since Jeffrey Jones, who played Charles in the original, is not part of the film due to past controversies. Despite this, his character’s face is shown several times, which I found excessive, and another actor was hired to voice him.
As for Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis, who played Adam and Barbara Maitland, Lydia reveals that they have found a way to move on permanently, although new characters are introduced. The main plot unfolds as Lydia summons Beetlejuice to help with her daughter’s supernatural troubles, leading to an unexpected alliance between them. Alongside Lydia’s engaging storyline, Beetlejuice also navigates his own challenges, including evading his vengeful ex-wife, played by Monica Bellucci, adding another layer of intrigue to the plot.
The introduction of new characters, like Lydia’s fiancé Rory (played by Justin Theroux) and Willem Dafoe’s dual roles, adds to the film’s quirky and entertaining nature. Burton expands on the visually stunning Afterlife, presenting creative and inventive set designs that constantly change, providing comedic opportunities. The film cleverly weaves three major plot threads together, each captivating in its own right. Danny Elfman’s score perfectly complements the film, heightening its enchanting qualities. Overall, “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” offers a multi-layered and compelling experience that warrants multiple viewings.
Sarah Knight Adamson© September 9, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ripley.mp3As the prestigious Emmy Awards draw near, ‘Ripley,’ the TV series, stands out with an impressive 13 nominations. This acclaimed series, now available for streaming on Netflix, promises a viewing experience of the highest caliber.
“Ripley” is a mystery drama miniseries based on Patricia Highsmith’s 1955 crime novel The Talented Mr. Ripley. It’s an 8-part series rated TV-MA for Mature Audiences and unsuitable for kids and teens.
Set against the backdrop of 1960s Italy, ‘Ripley’ follows the story of Tom Ripley, portrayed by the talented Andrew Scott, who is tasked with bringing a wealthy man’s son back to the US. The series also features the stellar performances of Dakota Fanning and Johnny Flynn.
The series, a masterpiece written and directed by Steven Zaillian, an Oscar winner for Schindler’s List, and Robert Elswit, the director of photography, an Oscar winner for “There Will Be Blood,” is a unique blend of classic noir, Hitchcock, and Italian cinema giants. Shot in black and white, the series is a visual treat and a lesson in beautiful filmmaking.
The Bottom Line: I’m in 3 ½ stars out of four. I watched the show because of Andrew Scott’s performance. His portrayal of Tom Ripley is not just incredible, but also absolutely terrifying. His performance alone is worth the watch, and I found myself so enthralled with the series that I binge-watched it. Just know that there is murder and violence throughout.
Sarah Knight Adamson@ September 8, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/my-penguin-friend.mp3The film ‘My Penguin Friend’ is a poignant portrayal of the extraordinary bond between a solitary father and a penguin, set against the backdrop of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The narrative unfolds as the penguin, named Din-dim, embarks on an annual migration from Brazil to Argentina, a journey fraught with peril. Renowned French actor Jean Reno, known for his role in Steve Martin’s ‘Pink Panther movies, brings Joao, the compassionate fisherman who rescues Din-dim from the brink of death following an oil spill, to life. Directed by David Schurmann and penned by Paulina Lagudi Ulrich and Kristen Lazarian, this heartwarming film is now enchanting audiences in theaters.
It is a glorious tale of friendship that restores a spirit and heals a family with an unshakable, ocean-crossing loyalty, turning a tragedy into a triumph. This family-friendly film may not be suitable for young children as it opens with a scene where a child drowns. We view João as he starts to feel joy after years of sadness due to his new penguin friend. What’s impressive is that the penguin had a routine of suddenly disappearing back into the massive wilds of the ocean to return to the coast of Brazil to live with João.
You’ll also witness the penguin’s near misadventures and his unwavering determination to use his unique GPS-like powers, a natural instinct that allows him to navigate long distances, to find his way back to the place he now considers home with Joao. The beauty of nature is shown in this heartwarming story of love and determination. I can highly recommend it, as it has a relaxed tone and a beautiful quite nature. Adriana Barraza is cast as João’s wife nurturing Maria.
Sarah Knight Adamson© August 21, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/deadpool-wolverine.mp3It’s been six years since Wade Wilson, Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds) retired from his superpower role. However, his quiet life is about to get crazy as he’s informed by Mr. Paradox (Matthew MacFadyen), that the world could be wiped out. With the enlisted help of Logan, the Wolverine (Hugh Jackman), they’re off to save the multiverse world. The evil Cassandra (Emma Corrin) of the TV series “The Crown” makes her MCU debut; she’s related to an icon from Fox’s Marvel superhero movies. In the comic books and here, she’s the twin sister of Charles Xavier, leader of the X-Men. Like her brother, Cassandra’s an Omega-level mutant who can rip your skin off or use her fingers to go inside your head with just a simple gesture. Yes, the CGI in her scenes was fascinating. The plot in a nutshell centers on Deadpool’s and the Wolverine and efforts to stop Cassandra from destroying the multiverse, with a gazillion random side scenes in the mix. But what truly sets this movie apart are the unexpected twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.
If your theater has seatbelts, (ha) I’d say fasten them, as both die-hard fans and audiences are in for an entertaining hyper-speed, wild, dizzy ride. While “Deadpool & Wolverine” is geared toward its fan base, the overstuffed plot actually works, in this case, to present outlandish scenarios with non-stop R-rated banter.
One could surmise that the two fan-favorite Marvel characters, Deadpool and Wolverine, would be enough to satisfy its fans; I’m pleased to say that Ryan Reynolds decided to share his success with his colleagues. Yep, he’s a team player, and it has served him well here. The camaraderie among the cast is not just palpable; it’s infectious, and this unity makes the movie fantastic. For myself, I was thrilled to see (spoiler alert) Channing Tatum as the superhero Gambit. Fans know he’s wanted to portray that Marvel character for years, even having his own movie deal a few years back. He told me in 2012 during an interview in Chicago that he wanted to play the Louisiana Bayou card-tossing character. Well, his wish came true as Ryan Reynolds is sharing his success as Tatum’s performance, along with the outstanding cast, shines brilliantly.
Yes, there are many other star cameos, of which I will not divulge, although it’s no surprise that Blake Lively is in the movie; she’s the stunning Ladypool, and her baby, Babypool, is played by the couple’s youngest child, their son, Olin. Their daughter Inez plays Kidpool and has a line in the film. The oldest daughter, 9-year-old James, has a small part as a screaming mutant. The couple’s 4-year-old daughter Betty is listed in the credits as the Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine wrangler. These surprise appearances will surely add an extra layer of excitement for the audience, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention a special dog appearance as, at times, the little pooch steals the show. A mainly hairless pugese with a long tongue drooping out of her mouth. The dog has been widely described as Britain’s ugliest in an ‘ugly dog’ contest and was crowned in an official poll last year. She’s four-year-old Peggy, whose owner, Holly Middleton, adopted her from Leven, East Yorkshire, when she was six months old. When I saw the dog, I thought her long tongue was a prop. Nope, it’s been verified she’s the real deal. She has a hairless, long tongue and an excitable personality.
Director Shawn Levy has repeatedly said in interviews that audiences can expect all the humor and audacity of a ‘Deadpool’ movie plus all the action of a ‘Wolverine’ and ‘Deadpool’ movie. As a film critic, I’d agree with that, although it is clearly evident in the script that F-bombs are non-stop throughout the movie. It’s a strongly rated R movie by my standards and not for children. Ryan Reynolds also has script writing credit, which is brilliant, as are the catchy songs playing throughout, as in “Bye, Bye Bye,” recorded by NSYNC, “Glamorous” by Fergie, Ludacris, “If I Could Turn Back Time” by Cher, and “Like a Prayer” Madonna.
My time watching the film in a sold-out theater was great! It’s been a long time since I viewed a movie with such a large crowd; I was so happy to see so many people back in the theater. The crowd applauded, laughed, gave high-fives, and were thoroughly entertained.
Sarah Knight Adamson July 29, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1-beverly-hills-cop-axel-f.mp330 years after its original, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” (2024) continues all the laughs with new conflicts and characters while still incorporating fan favorites. Detroit’s favorite cop, Axel Foley, returns to Beverly Hills to protect his estranged daughter, Jane Saunders. Jane, a defense attorney, unknowingly took on a case that was tied to multiple dangerous groups, ultimately leading her to become a target. Axel, with the help of Detective Bobby Abbott, Jane’s ex-boyfriend, teams up with his old friends to uncover the mysterious forces behind the case and keep Jane safe.
The film pays homage to its predecessors through several iconic songs, shots, and lines that are sure to trigger strong nostalgic feelings for long-time viewers, creating a sense of connection and sentimentality. Although it helps to see the others beforehand in order to understand specific references, the film does well on its own. Just as Taggart says in the final fight scene, “Some things never change.” It was well-focused on the central plot and kept the timeline relatively easy to follow. The humor of the film stays light-hearted throughout but manages to balance well with the serious themes of father-daughter relationships and work-life balance. Although at times it did feel a little preachy due to the way the lines were written, the overall messages were nice. The fight scenes are intense and fun to watch while still keeping the comedy as the primary focus.
For a comedy, the acting was adequate overall; however, in the more serious moments, I felt like it fell flat. While Jane’s character is supposed to be rather serious and down to earth, generally, she comes across as empty. I didn’t feel any complexity with her besides what was explicitly shown and discussed in the film. There didn’t seem to be much behind her besides a complicated relationship with her father. Detective Abbott felt more balanced, as we learned a lot about his history and motivations throughout the film, and the returning characters were also well-rounded.
Director: Mark Molloy
Studio: Netflix, Eddie Murphy Productions, Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films
Actors: Eddie Murphy, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Taylour Paige, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton, Kevin Bacon
Writers: Danilo Bach, Daniel Petrie Jr., Will Beall
Runtime: 1 hr 58 min
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/the-bear-season-three-FROM-BROADCAST.mp3Hi Carl and hello to all of our listeners out there, tonight I’m going to review the TV series “The Bear” Season 3 that’s rated R, and streaming on Hulu, there are ten episodes.
In ‘The Bear’ season 3, Jeremy Allan White stars as Carmy, an award-winning New York head Chef who returns to his hometown of Chicago to run his late brother’s failing restaurant, The Beef. In season three, Carmy and the cast continue with the new upscale restaurant named The Bear. The first episode is a visual feast, with beautifully shot food that’s almost too beautiful to eat. As a former food critic with the Chicago Tribune, I was in culinary heaven! Some may find it slow, but I savored every dish.
Episode 6, ‘Napkins’, is a standout among the 10 Episodes. It delves into the back-story of Liza Colón-Zayas’s character, Tina, the struggling line cook. Her unwavering loyalty to Mikey Berzatto, played by Jon Bernthal, is a central theme. We witness her journey from The Beef to culinary school, where she now serves as a sous chef. The portrayal of her story is so moving it brought me to tears. The introduction of her husband, David, played by her real-life husband, David Zayas, known for his work on the TV series ‘Dexter ‘, adds another layer of depth. Ayo Edebiri’s direction of this compelling narrative is truly commendable.
Episodes 7, ‘Legacy’ and 8, ‘Ice Chips, ‘ feature Sugar, played by Abby Elliott. Natalie ‘Sugar’ Berzatto focuses on the baby she’s been carrying, motherhood, and birth. It’s best not to give away any details of these two Episodes, as they’re much better left to unfold naturally. There’s so much to appreciate in Season 3, and I can’t help but express my personal enjoyment of it. I truly savored every moment of ‘The Bear’ season 3.
Sarah Knight Adamson© July 13, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/despicable-me-four.mp3“Despicable Me 4” (2024), the newest installment in Illumination’s fan-favorite franchise, continues its predecessors’ fun, fast-paced, and visually appealing structure. The film’s stunning animation, vibrant colors, and attention to detail are sure to captivate fans of the ‘Despicable Me’ franchise. Beginning with a high-stakes brawl at Gru’s school reunion, the main antagonist is quickly established as Maxime Le Mal, an old nemesis determined to take his revenge for the wrongs Gru committed against him when they were at school together. This major threat to their safety forces Gru and his family, with the addition of Gru Jr., to relocate to an inconspicuous new town full of interesting neighbors with mysterious motives.
The family finds themselves in several sticky situations as they try to blend in and lay low, resulting in plenty of hilarious chase scenes sure to keep you entertained.
While Gru has always been a role model for his girls, ‘Despicable Me 4 ‘delves deeper into his character. We witness his growth as a mentor, particularly in his evolving relationship with his son and the children around him. His journey to earn Gru Jr.’s approval, despite the initial resistance, is a heartwarming aspect of the film.
The film’s pacing is designed to keep young viewers engaged. There’s always something happening on screen, whether it’s advancing the central conflict or adding a humorous side plot. The timeline is easy to follow, and new characters and their motives are introduced understandably for a younger audience. Despite its target audience, the film cleverly incorporates jokes that older viewers can appreciate. Moments like, “If you think I’m above fighting children, you picked the wrong dojo,” demonstrate the film’s versatile humor. And, of course, the antics of the minions keep the atmosphere light and everyone laughing.
In line with the previous ‘Despicable Me’ movies, the soundtrack was outstanding. Pharell Williams continued his work for the franchise with the phenomenal track ‘Double Life,’ a funky, bass-driven tune that sets the mischievous tone of the film and is sure to get stuck in your head. Williams is joined alongside originals from Teezo Touchdown and Lil Yachty while engaging an older audience with songs such as ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’ and ‘Everybody Wants To Rule The World’ from Guns N’ Roses and Tears For Fears, respectively. The film’s soundtrack, ranging from K-pop to hip-hop and even to classical rock, caters to different age groups, ensuring there’s something for everybody that stays true for the movie.
Directors: Chris Renaud, Patrick Delage
Studio: Universal Studios, Illumination
Actors: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, Pierre Coffin, Joey King, Sofia Vergara, Stephen Colbert, Miranda Cosgrove, Chloe Fineman, Steve Coogan, Chris Renaud, Dana Gaier, Madison Polan
Writers: Mike White, Ken Daurio
Runtime: 1 hr 35 min
Kathryn Rachford © July 4, 2024 written review
Sarah Knight Adamson Hollywood 360 Network Radio July 6, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1-inside-out-two.mp3“Inside Out 2” not only maintains its predecessor’s core inner balance theme but also delves into the realm of teen anxiety with a unique twist of ‘imperfection ‘. The movie is a visual treat, showcasing the trademark eye-popping, spontaneous, and innovative animation of Disney PIXAR.
The movie Fast-forwards to Riley, now age 13, highlights the core inner balance theme of a teen’s Anxiety with ‘imperfection as she navigates life situations. In this family-friendly sequel, you’ll view the eye-popping, spontaneous, and innovative animation of Disney PIXAR’s trademark film-making. Viewers, especially teenagers and parents, will find the characters and their struggles highly relatable, mirroring their own experiences of balancing emotions and dealing with life’s challenges. Younger audience members will enjoy the antics of the characters Joy, signified by the color blue, voiced by Amy Poehler; Sadness, blue Phyllis Smith; Anger, Red (Lewis Black), purple Tony Hale; Disgust, green Liza Lapira, Ayo Edebiri Envy, blue-green, Maya Hawke as Anxiety, a new orange anxious emotion. Ennui (bored), blue-purple, Adèle Exarchopoulos.
Riley’s a hockey-loving kid whose parents broke the news that she’ll be moving from Minneapolis to San Francisco. Believe me when I say yikes, as I moved starting at age 11. I lived in sunny LA, California, and moved at the beginning of 6th grade to Greenfield, Ohio, next at age 13 to Downers Grove, Illinois, and next at age 14 to Scottsbluff, Nebraska, where I transferred my junior year to a different High School. I know firsthand all the emotions that go hand-in-hand with being the new girl in school, and believe me, the heartbreak of saying goodbye to my friends and leaving ‘my beaches’ of Huntington and Santa Monica. Luckily, Riley and I had loving and caring parents, which does help in times of Anxiety and discovering more about how to balance emotions. A great constant for Riley is her sport of hockey; for me, participating in sports such as track, volleyball, cheerleading, and pom squad and being the lead in the Senior Class play as a Freshman were ways to make new friends and learn new skills.
Joy is typically in charge of the emotions, although Sadness plays a more significant role in the sequel along with Anxiety, who is non-stop troubled by just about everything. We see how our brain argues, considers options, and then decides. It’s a creative visual approach to helping kids and teens see what is happening inside their bodies. Along with parents who are wondering, what is happening here? PIXAR also shows intriguing new regions of Riley’s mental landscape, like the giant ravine that fuels her condescending side called the ‘Sar-chasm,’ which symbolizes the communication gap that appears during the teenage years when words come out in a completely different way to how the teen feels. This movie provides valuable insights into the teenage experience, enlightening both teenagers and parents about the complexities of this stage of life.
I suggest that you stay for the closing credits as a secret that Riley’s been keeping is the Deep Dark Secret is revealed in a scene with Joy leading the charge, says it’s okay now to spill the beans. During my screening, the kids were laughing and cheering for Riley, although there were scenes in which she was totally sobbing. All in all, the movie is so great for everyone despite the focus on teens.
Sarah Knight Adamson©June 14, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/acapulco-season-three.mp3Upon watching the series “Acapulco” in October of 2021, I was hooked as I enjoy multi-generational stories. I also appreciate family-friendly stories. The series follows the lives of the staff at an extravagant resort in Acapulco named the Las Calinas. Each character has their own unique story, from the aspiring fashion designer trying to make a name for herself, to the hopeful manager navigating the challenges of running a high-end resort. Boasting an excellent cast, including one very well-known actor, Eugenio Derbez, as Maximo, the characters are both humorous and well-meaning, although most importantly, well-developed. We see the inner workings of the resort and the personal and professional struggles of the staff. Yes, viewing the pool supervisor, and the singing musical duo—the characters just may steal your heart.
“Acapulco,” Season 3 is streaming now on Apple TV+ it starts with a recap of Season 2, showing the now, billionaire Maximo retelling his story of success to his nephew Hugo and what happened to him at the Las Calinas resort in 1985. Next, we see he and Hugo being greeted at a door by a woman who calls Maximo ‘Dad.’
Switching back to 1985, we view the younger Maximo (Enrique Arrizon) as the manager climbing the ladder of success. The relationships he’s worked so hard to build with his friends are now compromised. He finds out it’s not so easy being in charge of your friends. Young Max (Enrique Arrizon) is about to start his new position as the Assistant Head of Operations, working under his idol Don Pablo (Damián Alcázar). Everyone is happy for him, including his best friend Memo (Fernando Carsa), who has been promoted to head pool boy. Julia ((Camila Perez), his girlfriend, even sewed a new uniform shirt for him. And while they’re public with Max’s family, Julia still wants to keep their relationship quiet at Las Calinas.
The Bottom Line: I’m in, the family-friendly series is entertaining, as the characters are written so that we know their personalities. We see the behind-the-scenes of running a large resort with all the trials and tribulations. I especially liked Maximo’s rise to manager this season, as the job is not as easy as it looks. New Episodes drop every Wednesday until June 19.
Sarah Knight Adamson© June 9, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/if.mp3“IF” tells the story of Bea (Cailey Fleming), a 12-year-old girl who is spending time with her grandmother (Fiona Shaw) while her single father (John Krasinski) prepares for heart surgery. Bea, whose mother died a few years ago due to cancer, insists that she is no longer a child, which is strange and somewhat weird. In reality, Bea appears as sad, lonely, and depressed; shockingly, no scenes include a parent discussion with her teachers at school or a trained psychological mental health professional. We see a silly father attempting to connect with her through imagination. We also view Bea rummaging through her grandmother’s apartment, seeking memories of her childhood to reminisce. She finds drawings of IFs, which stands for imaginary friends, and soon meets them as they begin to appear physically.
Despite boasting a formidable cast including Krasinski, Ryan Reynolds, Fleming, Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Steve Carell, and the late Louis Gossett Jr., the film fails to fully capitalize on its potential. While charming and delightful in parts, it ultimately perishes to a dramatic and somewhat tedious very sad narrative.
The dark, downer scenes of Bea’s father in the hospital lying in a bed during most of the film paint a picture of impending death. We see her sadness and terror as she’s already experienced the death of her mother. I’m scratching my head as to why this storyline was created? Isn’t the death of one parent enough in a kid’s movie? And for that matter, why have any parent die? I’d never take my family to a sad film with this major theme. The amazing IFs are artistically great to view; their personalities are different, each with varied stories. It’s such a shame, as they should be enough to carry the film, along with Ryan Reynolds and the other human cast members. I absolutely loved their dazzling dance sequence on stage. I’m hoping for a sequel featuring the IFs, Bea and her father, with no death or sadness.
The IF’s personalities are varied and exciting. Calvin (Ryan Reynolds) is grumpy; he resents his job, although he’s clearly committed to helping forgotten IFs find new child companions. He guides Bea through New York city as they both work together to find matches. Benjamin is a 9-year-old who doesn’t let his troubles get him down; is upbeat and laidback, even though he’s in the hospital with many serious health issues. Louis (Louis Gossett Jr) is an elderly wise teddy bear who was once the leader of the IF program; teaches Bea how to access memories. IF assistant Blossom (Phoebe Mary Waller-Bridge) is calm, level-headed, hopeful, and truthful, she tries to help Bea realize her potential. Blue (Steve Carell), a huge furry monster, is sweet, perseverant, and optimistic.
The language is also considered unnecessary, especially when Bea’s mentor says, “What the hell?” Also, we don’t need the terms “good God,” “oh my God,” “swear to God,“ and “for God’s sake.“ The film should be rated PG-13, yet what teen will watch a movie about IFs? Writer Krasinski has made mistakes with kids before, as in “A Quiet Place: Chapter Two,“ when we view a child’s leg caught in the metal jaws of a steel bear trap. The agony of a child serves no purpose in the story and is a cop-out; if you’re going to have someone hurt, the adults are the ones who should have been injured. No one wants to see a child bloodied and screaming in agony. He lost my trust as a writer of films with kids years ago, and this one “IF” is atrocious.
To sum up, “IF“ has creative ideas concerning imaginary friends, although the main themes of death and impending death overshadow the script. The language needs to be more appropriate for kids. I would not recommend that kids watch this film.
Sarah Knight Adamson © May 17, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/1-the-fall-guy.mp3Ryan Gosling stars as a Hollywood stuntman and Emily Blunt portrays a film director, in “The Fall Guy” the movie is playing now in theaters. Before the film started there is a short introduction by director David Leitch who was actually a stunt man for Matt Damon and Brad Pitt, he said the movie is a ‘love letter’ to the stunt community. Colt Seavers, Ryan Gosling is a stunt performer in Hollywood, when he’s hurt on the job, he abandons his career and girlfriend Jody, played by Emily Blunt. In a nutshell, the film is entertaining, and a love letter to the ‘Stunt Community,” Gosling carries the film from start to drawn-out finish.
Ryan Gosling stars as a Hollywood stuntman and Emily Blunt portrays a film director, in “The Fall Guy” the movie is playing now in theaters. Before the film started there is a short introduction by director David Leitch who was actually a stunt man for Matt Damon and Brad Pitt, he said the movie is a ‘love letter’ to the stunt community. Colt Seavers, Ryan Gosling is a stunt performer in Hollywood, when he’s hurt on the job, he abandons his career and girlfriend Jody, played by Emily Blunt. In a nutshell, the film is entertaining, and a love letter to the ‘Stunt Community,” Gosling carries the film from start to drawn-out finish.
The movie is loosely based on the 1980s TV series of the same name starring Lee Major as Colt Seavers, the same name as Gosling’s character which is an ode to the series. And yes, Lee Majors does appear in the film, wait for his cameo during the closing credits. I enjoyed the banter between the leads although the repetitive hand-to-hand combat scenes with the same villains stuffs the script and takes away for the central theme of the film.
Writers: David Leitch, Drew Pearce
Director: David Leitch
Actors: Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Hannah Waddingham, Teresa Palmer, Stephine Hsu, Winston Duke
Studio: Universal Pictures
Runtime: 2 hours 6 minutes
Sarah Knight Adamson© May 18, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/palm-royale.mp3The comedy-drama series “Palm Royale” is steaming now on Apple TV, and it’s a total blast to view. The year is 1969; Kristen Wiig stars as Maxine Simmons Delacorte an outsider and former pageant queen to the high-society ladies of Palm Beach. She desperately wants to be accepted into the exclusive country club, the Palm Royale. Though she has neither an invitation nor the funds to cover the $30,000 initiation fee, she scales the brick barrier wall, and the series begins.
The head of the ‘insiders’ ladies’ group is Norma Delacorte, played by the iconic actress Carol Burnett. Incidentally, the last time we viewed Burnett on TV was in 2022, in the hit series “Better Call Saul.” Allison Janney plays Evelyn Rollins, along with Bruce Dern and his real-life daughter Laura Dern, lovingly portray father and daughter, along with the almost unrecognizable brown-haired actress Leslie Bibb, who’s usually a blonde plays the ding-bat character of Dinah Donahue, who marries older wealthy men for their money and engages in side-affairs. And let’s not leave out the ‘pool boy—waiter, the one and only Ricky Martin, Robert, as he’s in on everyone’s secrets.
Each episode is full of non-stop laughs and awkward and cringe-worthy dialogue. You can’t help but root for Maxine as Kristen Wiig steals the show and keeps it going until the very end. Despite her simple-minded pilot husband, Douglas, played by Josh Lucas, she has mastered the art of womanhood, using misogyny and the patriarchy for her gains. Despite her naïveté, her thirst for a lavish life continues to drive Maxine even in the face of secrets, blackmail, and a car crash. Amid the meanies and the continual dishonor, she plots her way inside Palm Beach’s inner circle on a quest to host the end-of-season Beach Ball, Norma’s self-appointed annual extravaganza.
The show’s creator is Abe Sylvia, who is known for The Eyes of Tammy Faye Baker and Dead to Me. The series is based on the book Mr. & Mrs. American Pie by Juliet McDaniel.
The Bottom Line: I’m in. Yes, the script is all over the place and, at times, very unrealistic, yet Kristen Wiig carries the show from start to finish. Carol Burnett is also a joy to watch. I’ve seen all 10 episodes; there’s a new one each Wednesday. I had so much fun viewing it and recommend watching it on Apple TV.
Sarah Knight Adamson© April 21, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/one-life.mp3“One Life” is a heartwarming film I screened during the Toronto Film Festival; it stars Anthony Hopkins as Nicholas Winton, an English stockbroker in a true story. In 1938 he helped save over 600 children during the holocaust by transporting them mainly by trains from Prague to London to escape death at the hands of the German Nazis.
The story takes place in two time periods. In 1987, the older Nicholas Winton is looking back on his life to determine if he could have done more to save the children. In 1938, Johnny Flynn plays the younger Winton as a determined person on a mission similar to “Schindler’s List.” The movie is based on the book It’s Not Impossible,” written by Winton’s daughter Barbara.
It begins with Winton in his 80s, when he finds papers that tell the story of how he helped save hundreds of children living in the Czech Republic. What makes this story more personal for me is that I have visited there and taken a tour of the concentration camp Terezin, where thousands of Jews were held until they were sent to the death camps of Auschwitz and Treblinka.
Director James Hawes introducing “One Life” at the Toronto Film Festival 2023 Sarah Knight Adamson Photo Credit
The film toggles back to a younger Winton who helps groups of Jewish children in German-occupied Czechoslovakia to hide and flee in 1938–39, just before the beginning of the war. He visited German-occupied Czechoslovakia, saying, “I have seen this for myself, and I can not unsee it.” He began by enlisting the help of his persistent mother, played by the talented Helena Bonham Carter, and other work colleagues, one saying, “Don’t start what you can’t finish.” Ultimately, he saved 669 children; of the 1,500 left, only 200 survived. It’s an unsung hero’s story and dedication to helping children and families.
I loved this movie! Every person in the photo above that is standing was saved by Nicholas Winton. Johnny Flynn did a fantastic job as the younger Nicholas, as did Anthony Hopkins. I strongly advise you to see this gem of a historical movie.
Director: James Hawes
Screenplay writers: Lucinda Coxon, Nick Drake
Cast:
Anthony Hopkins, Nicky Winton
Johnny Flynn, Young Nicky
Helena Bonham Carter, ‘Babi’ Babette / Barbara Winton
Lena Olin, Grete Winton
Romola Garai, Doreen Warriner
Alex Sharp, Trevor Chadwick
Studio: Warner Bros
Sarah Knight Adamson© April 14, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/shirley.mp3Here’s the best component of the movie “Shirley”—Regina King, the star who portrays Shirley Chisholm. Hands down, she embodies her actions, timing, and subtle nuances. Think Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth in her Oscar-winning performance in “The Queen.” Yes, she’s that good. And honestly, in a biopic, the subject has to be great, and here she is.
Oscar winner King won Best Supporting Actress in “If Beale Street Could Talk” (2007); here, she plays the first Black congresswoman, Shirley Chisholm, who in 1972 ran for President of the United States. In the film’s narrow time frame, we learn of her determination, as her performance garners honesty, power, and decisiveness to the legacy of Shirley Chisholm by delivering a captivating performance. Saying, “I’m paving the road for a lot of other people like me to get elected.”
Certainly, her statement holds true. Women wouldn’t be where we are today without those who broke barriers and blazed trails for others, and former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm is undeniably one of those pioneers. In 1968, of the 435 elected representatives to the House of Congress, 11 were women, five were Black men, and none were Black women until Chisholm was elected. She had higher aspirations, and she made her dreams come true by compiling a group of people who would help her Presidential campaign.
Wesley “Mac” Holder, Lance Reddick, in one of his final roles, is her campaign advisor. He’s always looking on the safe side, while Shirley pushes him to take a risk. Their chemistry together is excellent to view. Stanley Thompson, Brian Stokes Mitchell, is her political strategist and campaign manager who questions whether she even has a chance at winning. Robert Gottlieb, Lucus Hedges, a former intern, is her youth coordinator, playing a wide-eyed newbie, who changes in strength and confidence as Shirley guides him to believe in himself. Lastly, Arthur Hardwick, Terrence Howard, a fundraiser and advisor to the campaign, is very supportive and her sounding board.
Director John Ridley blends in Chisholm’s family drama and her experiences with her strained husband Conrad, Michael Cherrie. Her sister Muriel St. Hill, Reina King, who is her actual sister and one of her toughest critics, is rude to her. We view her heartaches and stresses as she navigates her campaign, giving us a broader view of her as a person.
Director John Ridley keeps politics flowing as Chisholm makes deals with people in Washington. Walter Fauntroy Holland, a D.C. congressional delegate, is a question mark, as she never knows if she can trust him to secure more votes. King and André Holland are captivating to view, as their bogus smiles and chit-chat are all part of the game. We’re also reminded of the violence during that era, when Governor George Wallace was shot, leading herself and her campaigners with a new set of worries.
Upon finishing Shirley, you’ll be in awe of this trailblazing woman and the strength and courage she displayed in fighting tooth and nail for her place in the race. Ridley does a fine job of portraying a strong woman who can be considered a positive role model for all women. I appreciated her independent thinking and actions. Yes, she needed a team, but in the end, there was no male savior.
The Q&A afterward was insightful as actress and the film’s rising star, Christina Jackson, was in attendance. Also, the President and CEO of the Chicago Urban League, Karen Freeman-Wilson, Obama Foundation Executive VP/Chief Legal and People Officer Alfreda Bradley-Coar, moderated by WBEZ reporter Natalie Moore.
Cast: Regina King, Lance Reddick, Lucas Hedges, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Terrence Howard, Reina King, Christina Jackson.
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Drama, Biography
Director: John Ridley
Writer: John Ridley
Runtime: 1h 57m
Studio: Netflix
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 24, 2024
sarahsbackstagepass.com
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/dune-two.mp3Once in a while, a sweeping saga masterpiece comes along, such as 1977’s “Star Wars,” retroactively retitled “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” by George Lucas or Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings trilogy” 2001-2003 or James Cameron’s (2009) “Avatar”— “Dune: Part 2” is most definitely in the same league.
It not only continues the brilliance of the first film it sets a new bar for just how good sci-fi films should be. With an engaging story and a cast at their very best, along with stunning visuals, this is a masterpiece. As with the Oscar-winning first instalment, Villeneuve shows visual mastery of scale and scope, along with impressive cinematography.
Viewing the film in an IMAX theater with Dolby sound brought back memories of the prior films listed above. As a result, I recommend seeing it on the most giant screen possible. Based on Frank Herbert’s idolized sci-fi novel, some have said the movie could never be made due to the book’s complexities and the visual science fiction effects. I’m here to tell you it’s been done as director Dennis Villeneuve has succeeded in a colossal way.
Part 2 follows the journey of Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet) very closely after the first one ends, as he unites with Chani (Zendaya) and the Fremen, who are not free men. He’s also on a path of revenge against those who destroyed his family, with the help of a Fremen tribal leader named Stilgar (Javier Bardem), who is convinced that Paul is the chosen one. Stilgar believes the mythology points to Paul as the savior, the Emo King. Paul tries to blend with the Fremen, forming a relationship with a young warrior named Chani. He passes several tests given by the Fremen. He takes the tribal name of Muad’Dib, vowing vengeance against the Harkonnens for control of Arrakis and revenge for his father’s death.
During the combat scenes, watching bodies fall from the sky as colossal ships burst into flames appears virtually like an opera when looking at a film’s style. As Rabban Harkonnen, Dave Bautista is a wartime leader whose situation has exceeded his abilities, while Stellan Skarsgard has shades of Jabba the Hutt. I also enjoyed Bautista’s performance as he dug deep into the role, and it is eerily believable. You’ll feel immersion into vast worlds of endless sand that are only traveled with precise movements. Also, in a parallel scene, on another planet, Emperor Shaddam IV (Christopher Walken) and his daughter, a Princess, Irulan (Florence Pugh), speak with Bene Gesserit’s Reverend Mother (Charlotte Rampling) about the state of affairs. Irluan provides voice-over or narration to keep audiences up to speed on what is happening.
You may be wondering about Austin Butler’s psycho-path role as Feyd-Rautha, the evil villain and the star of the movie’s most haunting set, the Harkonnen’s home planet of Giedi Prime, shown in nearly all black and white with infrared imagery. There’s a Gladiator-style stadium that serves as an arena for maintaining his champion status as a butcherer of drugged-up prisoners. Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, the ultra-evil humongous blob, tests his worth by sending former Atreides soldiers to fight. Again, all of Butler’s scenes are filmed in black and white, delivering the feeling of everlasting doom and horror. He’s the sociopathic nephew of the Baron, who gives a realistic, organic performance.
I enjoyed seeing all of the famous stars in the film; Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista, Javier Bardem, and Florence Pugh are all fantastic in their roles. Ultimately, Chalamet is the most transformed, taking on his new role of a leader with some surprises along the way. He rises to the occasion, speaking with astute confidence and determination; his transformation and stellar acting are exciting to view as Paul chooses between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe as he attempts to prevent a horrific future that only he can foresee.
If you haven’t seen “Dune: Part 1”, I’d suggest watching that first, as most of the characters are set up, especially Paul and his family’s transition. You will be blown away by “Dune: Part 2”, as it reminds you that a broad-scale blockbuster can be done with artistry and flair. You may also have flashbacks to other masterpiece-epic films of the past.
Denis Villeneuve director of “Dune: Part Two”
On a side note, I was invited to a Zoom Press conference with Denis Villeneuve, and found it very insightful. Especially when he was asked about the epic scope of the film yet keeping the emotional heartbeat.
He replied: It’s everything epic and the action, and that is not something that is that difficult to do. The thing that is difficult to do is to make sure that we don’t lose focus on the intimate relationship more precisely, the story between Paul and Chani. That’s the heartbeat, it’s like their relationship will unfold all drama of the film. Through the eyes of Chani and Paul, we feel the political pressure, the cultural pressure, the oppression. I really constructed the movie focused on the tension between them. I knew that and I kept saying to my crew, “If we don’t believe in their relationship, we don’t have a movie.” And that was my main focus during the whole shoot, to take care and to be as close to them as possible.
Directed By: Denis Villeneuve
Screenplay By: Denis Villeneuve and Jon Spaihts
Based On: The novel Dune by Frank Herbert
Produced By: Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Denis Villeneuve, Tanya Lapointe and Patrick McCormick
Executive Produced By: Joshua Grode, Jon Spaihts, Thomas Tull, Herbert W. Gains, Brian Herbert, Byron Merritt, Kim Herbert, Richard P. Rubinstein and John Harrison, with Kevin J. Anderson serving as creative consultant
Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Christopher Walken, Léa Seydoux, Souheila Yacoub, with Stellan Skarsgård, with Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem
Rated: PG-13 for “sequences of strong violence, some suggestive material and brief strong language.”
Run Time: 166 minutes (2hr 46min)
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 18, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ordinary-angels.mp3Set in 1993, with flashbacks, Ed (Alan Ritchson), a hard-working roofer’s treasured wife, Theresa (Amy Acker), has died of a congenital liver disease, biliary atresia, which their youngest daughter Michelle (Emily Mitchell) also has; she’s in desperate need of a lung transplant. Her medical bills keep adding up, and her condition worsens. Sharon Stevens (Hillary Swank) is fictionally written as a repenting alcoholic with an estranged grown son.
Sharon, a hairdresser, is eager to change her drunken ways and find something more significant than herself to focus on and give up all her drinking. Living in St. Louis, she hears of a man who needs help with his medical bills and helps to find a liver transplant for his daughter. She immediately swings into action. There is so much to champion in the film, although for myself, viewing Swank in a vital female role, one who is a mover and shaker, thinks outside the box, with endless determination, is precisely the kind of woman role model that filmmakers should be looking to highlight. Not to mention the fact that seasoned actor Hilary Swank is incredible in the role of a sassy do-getter—she’s convincing and authentic, which are key critical elements in believability as an actor.
Sharon finds her purpose in helping Alan with his bills. However, he rebuffs her from the beginning. She’s the type that doesn’t say no, including her craving for ‘the drink’ in her past. Eventually, she becomes their lifeline, starting a fundraiser and crusading for financial breaks, corporate donations, media awareness, and helping Ed find more work as a roofer. The story serves as an example of how to help people with dire situations they can’t handle alone. The filmmakers display sincere intentions, not preachy, and it’s a beautiful public service announcement for organ donors.
Swank’s prior roles have prepared her for metamorphosing into literally a force of nature—she’s nonstop in her quest to save this child. Watching this damaged woman’s journey is inspiring as she doesn’t give up and restores her faith in herself and her community. Director Jon Gunn allows Shank to shine, directing her in all the right ways, yes, she digs deep within her acting abilities, and we are the benefactors.
“Ordinary Angels” is playing now in theaters, and I suggest you bring Kleenex, yup, it’s a tearjerker, in a good way.
Cast: Hilary Swank, Alan Ritchson, Nancy Travis, Tamala Jones, Emily Mitchell and Skywalker Hughes
Director: Jon Gunn
Run Time: 1 hour, 56 minutes
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 10, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/1-bob-marley-one-love.mp3When Kinsley Ben-Adir brilliantly appears on stage during a concert as Bob Marley and the Wailers, it’s as if he was born to play the part. His lip-syncing is perfection, and his dancing to the music is nothing short of contagious. Yeah, Man, I found myself tapping, humming, and swaying in my seat during my big-screen movie theatre screening of “Bob Marley: One Love.” Being a fan of Bob Marley’s music and having visited Jamaica’s beautiful, lush country on two occasions, I was gleefully immersed in the film.
Before the start of the film, producer Ziggy Marley, his son, introduced the film, saying he hoped we’d learn a little more about his dad’s philosophies for his Jamaican people. As a fan, I knew a little of his messages of peace and to simply get along with each other. Although there were many aspects of his life I didn’t know, through viewing the film, I became enlightened. In particular, his wife, Rita Marley, portrayed by Lashana Lynch, is a singer and the mother of several of his children; Bob is known to be the father of 13 children, although Rita was his primary love.
Cedella, Rita and Bob’s daughter was instrumental in making the docu-drama as authentic as possible. She’d send footage to her mother and others to make comments. She said in the press notes, “We had people we could access to get their point of view on rehearsals, chilling, or having a party. People who had lived the story that made the story so right.
I knew of his “Rastafari faith” that is rooted in 1930s Jamaica as a response by Black people to white colonial oppression. The beliefs are a melding of Old Testament teachings and a desire to return to Africa. Its message was spread worldwide in the 1970s by Jamaican music icons Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, a friend and member of the Wailers. Therefore, what you see in the film is non-stop marijuana smoking by Marley and his band, known as ‘Ganja,’ native to the West Indies. A much more potent, hallucinogenic laced form of marijuana. Honestly, it’s not easy to watch anyone smoke non-spot these days, knowing what we know about lung cancer. Here, he does smoke non-stop, although it is part of the ‘Rasta’ lifestyle and a crucial aspect of his life.
Bob Marley’s music and philosophical teachings did command the attention of the world and his people’s plight. I enjoyed this love letter from his family to shed light on an important person in our world and what he did to send messages to a bureaucratic society—his message of Peace and Love.
Side Note: I remember when my first grandchild Calvin was learning to talk, my daughter played music to him all the time. He’d come over to me and say, “Play Bob, play Bob Marley.” He loved the song “Three Little Birds.”
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 3, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/masters-of-air.mp3Apple TV 9-Part Series, “Masters of the Air,” is a war drama centering on the actions of the 100th Bomb Group; you’ll also learn about the
Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber plane. The squad is led by Gale ‘Buck’ Cleven, played by Austin Butler, the star of “Elvis,” and John’ Bucky’ Egan, Callum Turner, the star of “The Boys in the Boat.” The series follows the airmen as they are sent on dangerous missions inside Nazi Germany. Based on the book “Air: America’s Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany” by Donald L. Miller.
You’ll see the intense realities of war, along with the friendships that are made. Yes, the realistic horrors of war, as well as the bravery. Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks are the producers.
It’s been nearly a decade since executive producers Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks brought the companion series “The Pacific” to HBO, and now they present the spiritual sequel “Masters of the Air,” a nine-part series airing on Apple TV+ that proves to be a worthy third chapter in the trilogy. This is a sprawling, pulse-pounding series that is augmented with spectacular modern-day VFX but also filled with the spirit, tone, and style of old-fashioned World War II movies.
The bottom line is I’m way in three and a half stars out of four. To be clear, this series would be rated R if it were a movie. It’s for adults and is a tribute to the airmen who risked and lost their lives fighting a dangerous air war during WWII.
Sarah Knight Adamson February 18, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/gloria-gaynor.mp3The final quote spoken by Gloria Gaynor in her new documentary film says it all: “I will survive and thrive.” If ever there was a role model for perseverance in the face of adversity, Gloria Gaynor could be the poster child. Her hit song, “I Will Survive” (1978), has served as an anthem of liberation, bravery, self-actualization, and faith. Here, we see many of the hardships and misfortunes she had in her life, not to mention the tremendous successes in her beautiful singing voice.
Betsy Schechter and editors David Zieff and Kieran Healy weave the film through photographs, posters, archival video footage of the renowned ‘Disco Queen’ performances, we see so many of concerts, television appearances, and interviews. What you’ll find out is that she fell backwards while onstage during a performance and seriously injured her spine. The film gives us the early history of injury and the pain and suffering that would plague her throughout her life. It was amazing to see the footage from all over the world and how much her fans mean to her as vice versa.
As a bonus, we are privy to her comeback and her road to switching music genres as she’s determined to record a gospel album. We learn that breaking into the tight circle isn’t easy, although Gloria’s steadfast commitment to the project is nothing less than inspirational. We see the other musicians involved as her unwavering path to her goal is accomplished. The end result is the icing on the cake; I’ll leave that as a surprise for viewers. Let’s say that in her late 60s and 70s, she soared, just as she had in her early career.
In 1979, at the 22nd Grammy Awards, she won Best Disco Recording “I Will Survive.” 2016 the Library of Congress inducted the song into the National Recording Registry. She enjoyed many accolades, yet her fall on stage plagued her throughout her life as the number of back surgeries was astounding. She speaks openly of being sexually assaulted at a young age twice by different people and the scars she carries from the abandonment of her father. She searched for approval and love while trying to be ‘good enough’ to deserve love.
Sarah Knight Adamson© February 18, 2024
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/argylle.mp3Bryce Dallas Howard from the (Jurassic World franchise) is Elly Conway, the author of a series of best-selling spy novels. Her books center on secret agent Argylle (Henry Cavill) and his mission to unravel a global spy syndicate; the film gets interesting. When Elly is traveling by train with her cat Alfie, she meets Aidan (Sam Rockwell), a real spy, and the fantasy adventure begins.
Director Matthew Vaughn of the “Kingsman” movies creates a new chapter to his spy genre and his Kingsman: The Secret Service films. The latest spy character, Argylle, Henry Cavill, is excellent and lots of fun! He’s the archetypal spy with his gallant good looks, British accent, and the ability to, of course, conquer all. His team is ready to help behind the scenes to aid in his escape plan. John Cena and Ariana DeBose play them. He can escape any situation as he has for four different adventures that Elly Conway wrote. She’s out promoting her fourth novel while putting the finishing touches on the fifth book. Elly’s books have oddly predicted what happens in the real espionage world.
Getting back to Aidan, the spy is dressed like a homeless person. He tries to warn her she’s in grave danger and that an evil group is out to use her to predict where some dangerous codes and files could be located. Yes, she’s way over her head as life imitates art, and she has no one to trust except her cat, Alfie. Going into survival mode, her action scenes are incredible to watch as she fights for her life by robot kicking and punching her way out of each situation.
Unfortunately, the main problem is the action scenes need to be shorter, causing the movie to become boring. There’s potential for the film to become a franchise, as “Argylle” does keep you guessing until the very end. Although the less is, more approach would garner better results here. I did enjoy watching Bryce Dallas Howard and Sam Rockwell together, although they couldn’t save the film. The movie also stars John Cena, Catherine O’Hara, Bryan Cranston, Samuel L. Jackson, Ariana DeBose, and Dua Lipa.
Sarah Knight Adamson February 7, 2024
Check out Sarah’s Hollywood 360 Radio Review: https://bit.ly/Argylle_H360
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/gran-turismo.mp3Jann Mardenborough played by (Archie Madekwe), and Jack Salter (David Harbour).
Here’s a tale of a British teen, Jann Mardenborough (Archie Madekwe), whose excellent gaming skills with PlayStation’s Gran Turismo landed him in a professional racecar competition. The title says it all, although the film should probably be named based on the hard-to-believe true story. In the hands of the excellent director Neill Blomkamp (“District 9”), he pieces together the facts by introducing us to a racing driver, Jack Salter (David Harbour of “Stranger Things”). Salter has had his own share of troubles with racing, which comes out later in the story, although he uses his experience in such a way that guides Jann through his nail-biting race.
Danny Moore (Orlando Bloom) is the executive who had the idea for Nissan to sponsor a contest among the best simulator drivers in the world for the chance to compete in a real race; the risks and liability are overwhelming. During a lengthy racing academy experience, he found the best of the best, a gamer who came from a working-class family, Jann, who really only wants to become an actual driver, notwithstanding pleas from his father (Djimon Hounsou). However, his mom (Spice Girl Geri Halliwell Horner) hopes he’d want to do something more practical and safer.
Viewing the film’s race scenes is my favorite part. They are riveting and realistic, sometimes more of a shock and awe aspect, although we learn what it takes mentally to be a winner in the sport.
I enjoyed the inspirational guidance of Salter as he guided the young, inexperienced driver to trust his instincts and believe in himself. Yes, the story is somewhat predictable, although the racing scenes are actually fun to watch. You can’t help but root for Jann as he’s living the dream of a lifetime by actually competing in a race against other racecar adult drivers.
Sarah Knight Adamson© February 4, 2024
Christopher Nolan is one of my favorite filmmakers; his attention to detail, tone, acting, production sets, and sound is always a delight. “Inception” (2010), “The Dark Knight”(2008), “Dunkirk” (2017), and “The Dark Knight Rises”(2012) come to mind when I look back on his memorable films. He’s set the bar high...
Margot Robbie stars as Mattel’s fashion doll Barbie, and Ryan Gosling is the Ken doll in director Greta Gerwig’s excellent and creative film. The fantasy comedy movie is based on the dolls from the Mattel Toy company that began in 1959. Until then, most of the dolls in the world...
Disney’s remake of the classic animated 1989 movie “The Little Mermaid” is here with live-action characters and Ariel, Halle Bailey as the star. She carries the film despite the overlong runtime as her sweet, strong voice is the key to uplifting the live action amid the overstuffed script and elongated...
Harrison Ford stars as Indiana Jones, the multi persona hero—a world-traveler explorer who is also a nerdy archeologist professor in the final movie of the series, which premiered in 1981 with “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” The ever-popular series followed up with “Temple of Doom” (1984), “Last Crusade” (1989); and...
Director Peter Sohn creates a new world in “Element City,” where earth, fire, water, and wind are elements similar to the elements table we all learned in school. Sohn has been with PIXAR for many years; he directed the short film “Partly Cloudy” that ran before the hit movie “Up.”...
“Spider-Man: Across the Universe” is the sequel to the first movie, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” the film is both animated and live-action. Seventeen-year-old Miles Morales is Spider-Man, and Shameik Moore voices him; the story also centers on Gwen Stacy or Spider-Gwen, voiced by Hailee Steinfeld. Here’s the great news about...
If you’re wondering which number in this series, I’ve got you covered as I’ve seen them all, ‘Rise of the Beasts’ is number seven. The movie is based on the Hasbro Transformers toys with influence from the “Beast Wars” storyline. The film is a sequel to “Bumblebee” (2018) and a...
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/killers-flower-moon-fastx.mp3Currently, the film has a 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes of 54 reviews, and this critic can’t wait to add hers! I’ll have to wait alongside everyone else in the world for the October 6 opening in theaters—as customary; I’ll be invited to review along with other critics a few weeks earlier. I know the film will be shown in Oklahoma to the Osage Nation in a private screening on July 6.
The film centers on the 1920s Osage Indian Nation Regin of Terror and is based on the excellent book by David Grann, “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI.” Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro star alongside Lily Gladstone.
I’ve been following the book and the film’s journey since 2018. Here’s an overview of that journey in an article I wrote for RogerEbert.com that included interviews with former Osage Nation Chief Jim Gray and Osage News journalist Shannon Shaw Duty https://bit.ly/EbertKillersoftheFlowerMoon.
The most exciting news from Cannes is that the reviews are tremendous for the movie, calling it a masterpiece with Oscar-worthy performances. Be sure to check back regarding my review at the end of September or early October.
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writer: Eric Roth, Martin Scorsese
Release Date: (Theaters): October 6, October 20, 2023- Wide
Runtime: 3 hours 26 minutes
Distributor: Apple Original Films
Sarah Knight Adamson© May 29, 2023
“Fast X”
“Fast X,” rated PG-13, is the tenth movie of the series. The fast cars and crazy stunts are all back, along with a new villain, Jason Momoa! Vin Diesel, and Michelle Rodriguez, star. With flashbacks to a robbery heist and murder of a former villain, his son (Jason Momoa) is out for revenge.
Directed by Louis Leterrier (The Transporter 1 & 2, The Incredible Hulk, Now You See Me), he’s new to the franchise and written by Dan Mazeau. Fast X is an outrageous cat-and-mouse game with Dom and his team—Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Nathalie Emmanuel, and Sung Kang. Typical scenes are Dom’s gang chasing after Dante or Dom’s gang being attacked by Dante. Dom’s 8-year-old son, Little Brian (Leo Abelo Perry), is Dante’s prize as he wants Dom to suffer for killing his family.
“Fast X” also has the return of Jason Statham as Shaw, Helen Mirren as Shaw’s scheming mother, John Cena as Dom’s brother, and Charlize Theron as Cypher, who is now working with Dom & Co. against the much tougher lousy guy. You’ll see her and Liddy duking it out in far too many scenes. The buzz from the girls in the show—they want to drive more and show their skills; the fights are repetitive and dull. Yes, let the girls show their driving skills in “Fast Eleven!”
The bottom line is I’ve seen all ten films, and you know exactly what you’ll get with these movies—they are family-centered, outrageous cars, eye-popping visual stunts, and wild rides. If you go in with that expectation, you should be entertained, I certainly was, and I love the new sassy villain, Dante; Jason Momoa has found a new calling.
Director: Louis Leterrier
Writer: Justin Lin, Dan Mazeau
Runtime: 2 hours 21 minutes
Distributor: Universal Pictures
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/succession-blackberry.mp3“Succession” season one aired in 2018 on HBO to rave reviews. It’s based on the famous, wealthy Murdock family. It stars Brian Cox (Logan Roy), the family’s patriarch; Jeremy Strong (Kendall), his son; Kieran Calkin (Roman), another son; and Sarah Snook (Shiv), his daughter. The story revolves around their company Waystar RoyCo and a global entertainment conglomerate, who are all bidding for the CEO job when their dad retires.
The series has been given high accolades and awards due to its script, acting, directing, production values, musical score, and the analysis of the varied family personalities. Some critics have called “Succession” the best TV show you can currently watch. The show is definitely for adults only; the language is unsuitable for teens or kids. The writing and acting are razor-sharp; the series is great to watch once you settle in and expect what’s coming.
Sarah Knight Adamson and Jeremy Strong Critics Choice Awards January 15, 2023.
The family patriarch, Logan Roy (Cox), is experiencing health issues. His four children, the estranged oldest son Connor (Ruck), power-hungry Kendall (Strong), flippant Roman (Culkin), and the politically shrewd Shiv (Snook) all have their own relationship with the company, aka dad. As they begin to contemplate a future minus their father, they all compete for status within the company, namely the top job. What is interesting to view is Logan Roy, as he sees right through his children and plays their game by privately telling each of them they will be the next CEO.
As the seasons progress, it becomes a game of cat and mouse with Logan and his children. Be prepared for rough language and shocking proclamations. The show has an addictive quality as one can’t help but see what transgressions will happen in the next episodes—season 4, Episode 10 “Eyes Wide Open, airs May 28, at 8:00. I’ll be watching along with everyone, and I can say I’m very interested to know how the show will conclude.
Creator: Jesse Armstrong, writer
Director: Season 4 Episode 10: Mark Mylod
Executive Producers: Jesse Armstrong, Will Ferrell, Adam McKay, Frank Rich, Kevin Messick, Mark Mylod
Studio: HBO MAX Now known as MAX
Sarah Knight Adamson© May 21, 2023
Blackberry
Can you remember a time before your iPhone or hand-held phone? Going back to 2002, the first BlackBerry phone was launched. I didn’t have one, but my husband did. He used it mainly for texting; it was a large device, although it looked as though it was designed to fit inside of a men’s front shirt pocket. The new movie “BlackBerry” is out now and the film is great! The mixture of creativity, and humor with cut-throat business is an intriguing tale.
The year is 1996, in Waterloo, Ontario, a city in Canada. Mike Lazaridis (Jay Baruchel) and his business partner and best friend Douglas Fregin (Matt Johnson) are close to creating the world’s first smartphone. Struggling to keep their company in the business, Jim Balsillie (Glenn Howerton) agrees to join the company; as he sees the future with their new product, he also has the money and experience needed to create and sell a much-needed prototype of their invention. Most know the BlackBerry phone had a short run-life, yet most don’t know the entire story of its humble beginnings, the key players, the launch, and its growth to a billion-dollar operation.
Sadly, most know of the demise, as the Apple, iPhone, tweaked the idea several times, especially in size, to mainstream the product, thus seeing a rapid decline in BlackBerry sales. The film is directed by Matt Johnson, and co-written by Johnson and Mathew Miller, with beginnings in 2017 when asked by Niv Fichman, the President of Rhombus Media, created an adaptation of the bestselling book “Losing the Signal: The Untold Story Behind the Extraordinary Rise and Spectacular Fall of Blackberry.” Johnson recalls, “The Blackberry was the status symbol of the early-2000s, and at the beginning of the social-media era, it made you part of a group. The BBM perfectly captured that, like you can’t talk to somebody on BBM unless you both have Blackberries, it opened up a new way of communicating before Instagram DMs or Snapchat.”
The more Johnson and Miller learned about the early days of Lazaridis’ company, Research in Motion, the more they came to identify with its culture and the environment the engineers worked in. When adapting the book, Johnson and Miller attempted to stay true to the story while also bringing their own unique storytelling perspectives and experiences to the film.
Recently, Matt was in Chicago with his film, “Blackberry,” which screened at the Music Box Theater on May 5, during the Chicago Critics Film Festival, of which I am a member. Matt spoke with me after he introduced the film. The link is https://bit.ly/BlackBerryInterview
What struck a chord with me is that Johnson captured the creative genesis of problem-solving. Too often, we take how a product is put together for granted—with the hand-held phone race; we see how that process evolved up close and personal. As a former teacher of gifted students, I appreciate seeing that process portrayed in a film; it was fascinating to watch. For me, that is the film’s heart, is when they work together to reach a goal. Honestly, it is such a great feeling, and I created lessons so my students could experience the process. It also seemed more of a healthy environment, as Steve Jobs was a constant criticizer and somewhat of a bully at times. These guys were excited and reveled in each others’ success.
I highly recommend “BlackBerry” as Canada should get its due; check it out now.
Sarah Knight Adamson© May 10, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/michael-j-fox-book-club-two.mp3Yes, they’re back, those wise-cracking, wine-drinking, Hollywood award-winning ladies—Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, Mary Steenburgen, and Diane Keaton for their follow-up to “Book Club” (2018). In this sequel, the girls decide to take a trip to Italy for a Bachelorette party and a wedding, although it’s no surprise that Jane Fonda is the one getting married due to the trailers and advertisements for the movie. I can tell you upfront that I thoroughly enjoy seeing these ladies on the big screen and sharing their adventures, although, unfortunately, the film has some faults.
Is it worth seeing? Is it for everyone? Does it have anything important to say? For sure, it’s worth seeing if you are a fan of the women’s work. Secondly, no, the film is not for everyone as it has a target market, just as a high school film about four teen girls has a market. Thirdly, yes, the essential factor here is that friendship is key to a healthy state of mind at all ages. Lastly, the movie is fun-loving, feel-good, and nostalgic, although the script sadly lacked creativity and substance. All is forgiven as the beautiful sun-soaked setting of Italy is fantastic.
I enjoyed seeing the ladies interact with their co-stars, Andy Garcia and Don Johnson, who have magnetic and likable personas. The wedding dress-fitting scenes are hysterical, as the wise-cracking is at its best. The sex jokes fall flat, as do some of the tech gags. Without this star power, the film could be an advertisement for a trip to Italy, as the scenery at times steals the show. However, the setting brought back shades of another fabulous actress, Diane Lane, in “Under the Tuscan Sun,” a highly popular film. Does Italy as a backdrop work? Sì, bueno!
Director: Bill Holderman
Writers: Bill Holderman, Erin Simms
Studio: Focus Features
Run Time: 1 hour 47 minutes
Sarah Knight Adamson© May 15, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/michael-j-fox-book-club-two.mp3Do you remember the 1982 TV show ‘Family Ties’ with Michael J Fox or the classic movie “Back to the Future?” “Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie” is a documentary about his very successful career, and the daily challenges he now faces. Michael talks about his battle with Parkinson’s disease, which started at age 29. I screened the film during the Sundance film festival in January and spoke with cast members.
Conversing with director Davis Guggenheim reaped benefits in my reporting as these situations can lead to deeper conversations regarding the film. In this case, Guggenheim, (Academy Award winning director for Best Documentary, “An Inconvenient Truth” (2007), shared his personal thoughts on working with Fox; he told me, “Michael has changed my life, his determination and tenacity are a role model for all.”
I highly recommend this film, four stars out of four as the director Davis Guggenheim also told me he enjoyed working on the film as Michael taught him so much about life and what is truly important.
Michael’s wife Tracy Pollan, whom he met on “Family Ties,” also stars in offering her support and comments on their lives.
Sarah Knight Adamson© May 14, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/the-covenant.mp3“Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant” is based on the true story of US Army Sergeant John Kinley (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Afghan interpreter Ahmed (Dar Salim) in 2018 during the Afghanistan War. After being ambushed, Ahmed risks his life to save Kinley, who is wounded and unable to walk, by transporting him by a makeshift cot through rugged mountains. While viewing the film, Ritchie captures not only a heroic portrait of devotion, we see up close and personal the frustrations of fighting a war in those forbidding mountains. Historically Guy Ritchie films going back 25 years, have their own genre; they contain stylized and flamboyant silly action and violence. “The Covenant” is his first war film; it’s a very series film with realistic motion. As a Guy Ritchie fan, I’ve seen all his films—I believe this is his best yet.
As Kinley, now back in the US, recovers from his injuries, flashbacks haunt him. He begins to realize that Ahmed risked his life to save him. When he learns that he and his family were not given safe passage to America as promised. He decides to repay his debt by returning to the war zone to save them before the Taliban capture them.
The chemistry between the two characters and the realistic war scenes makes the film so great. After a horrific ambush in which Kinley and his men are overwhelmed by hordes of seriously armed Taliban gunmen who just keep on coming, only Ahmed and a badly wounded Kinley survive. This is when “The Covenant” becomes a harrowing, nerve-wracking survival adventure, with Ahmed utilizing a variety of strategies and testing the extreme limits of his endurance as he crisscrosses the challenging terrain and back roads in a superhuman effort to return to the Bagram Air Base, all while the Taliban is hunting them down. Ahmed makes one narrow escape after another, sometimes with the help of locals who loathe the Taliban.
We see the stacked odds of survival and are shocked when Kinley decides to leave his California home and family to return to the dreadful situation. And return, he does. The reunion brought tears to my eyes; again, Ritchie’s seasoned filmmaking career has created an excellent film of friendship, devotion, and the realistic horrors of war.
Sarah Knight Adamson© May 7, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/peter-pan-and-wendy.mp3The latest movie about Peter Pan is now playing in theaters everywhere. “Peter Pan and Wendy” is based on the original story of the “Peter Pan” book by Sir James Matthew Barrie, written in 1904, and the 1953 animated Disney movie “Peter Pan.” The film stars Jude Law as Captain Hook, James Gaffigan as Smee, Yara Shahidi as Tinkerbell, Ever Anderson as Wendy, and introduces Alexander Molony as Peter Pan. I thoroughly enjoy viewing the film as the age-appropriate story keeps all ages entertained.
David Lowery directs as he had much success with “Pete’s Dragon,” alongside screenplay credit with Toby Halbrooks, the executive producer. Past Disney films based on Peter Pan include Peter Pan (1953), Peter Pan: Return to Never Land (2002), and Tinker Bell (film series).
Focusing on Wendy Darling, a young girl afraid to leave her childhood home behind, she meets the magical Peter Pan, a boy who refuses to grow up, and a tiny fairy Tinker Bell who uses her pixie dust to create magical happenings. Wendy leaves her bedroom with her younger siblings to discover an evil pirate captain, “Hook,” who is Peter Pan’s arch enemy. They all travel and fly at times to exotic locations, encountering adventure and danger along the way.
In the end, Wendy proclaims, “To grow up might be the biggest adventure of them all!”
The Bottom-line: “Peter Pan and Wendy” is the perfect title as Wendy shares the spotlight with Peter and sometimes outshines him due to her broad screen time and her determined performance. I’d say three ½ stars out of 4. I enjoyed all the characters, especially the comical Jim Gaffigan.
Be sure to check out “Peter Pan and Wendy,” streaming now on Disney+.
Hollywood 360 Radio Network Podcast: https://bit.ly/wendyandpeterH360
Sarah Knight Adamson© April 30, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/judy-blume-mario-bros.mp3“Judy Blume Forever”
I screened the excellent documentary during the Sundance Film Festival in January 2023, and loved the film.
Most know author Judy Blume books as her name is synonymous with the joy and agony of being an 11- or 12-year-old. Directors Davina Pardo and Leah Wolchok present a full portrait of her life beginning in 1938 in New Jersey, from her transition to adult novels, her letter writing to adoring fans, and her retirement in Key West, FL.
Blume understood adolescence; she wrote bluntly, explaining awkward situations and exploring solutions. She dives deep into puberty, explaining what is happening while slowly guiding through the process.
Blume also wrote books for younger kids as well, “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing,” “Superfudge,” “Blubber” and “Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great,” were popular books with my fourth and fifth-grade students when I was teaching Gifted Literature. On numerous occasions, I read her books aloud to my students as they are so well-written and engaging.
An excellent biography, showcasing Blume reading her novels while lovingly reminiscing about her characters.
Sarah Knight Adamson@January 30, 2023
“The Super Mario Bros. Movie” (G)
“The Super Mario Bros. Movie” is now playing in theaters to packed audiences. It’s animation and based on the popular 80s video game of two brothers, Mario, voiced by (Chris Pratt) and Luige (Charlie Day), from the Nintendo game corporation in Japan. Wow, the film is colorful and eye-popping, especially with the rainbow speedway track. Although, I can’t recommend the movie as it’s too dark in tone for kids and has way too much violence. I’d say skip it in theaters.
Mario Bros, unfortunately borrowed Guy Ritchie’s playbook from his disaster of a movie “Aladdin.” Yep, there’s torture in “Super Mario Bros,” just as in “Aladdin,” it mirrors electric shocking Toad until Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) agrees to marry Bowser (Jack Black) or King Koopad, just as “The Sultan” ruler of Agrabah, Princess Jasmine’s father is tortured until she agrees to marry Jarfar. Nope, not on my watch. Physical bullying to get your way is never okay. Hmm…what does that teach kids?
Directors: Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic
Writer: Matthew Fogel
Studio: Universal
Run Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
In theaters now
Sarah Knight Adamson© April 23, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/air.mp3Ben Affleck’s “Air” is a complete delight from start to dramatic history-making finish—in fact, it’s the best movie I’ve seen yet in 2023! It’s the story of super-star basketball player Michael Jordan and the beginnings of his iconic Nike shoe, with a setting of 1984. Following Affleck’s film career since his and Matt Damon’s Academy Award-winning “Good Will Hunting” has been a delight, especially when they were trying to get funding for their script. In a meeting with Academy Award winner Robin Williams, he looked at them both and said, “This all sounds great; now, where are your dads?” Yes, they were fresh out of college. Perhaps that’s why Affleck actually took the time to read young un-proven screenwriter Alex Convey’s “Air” script.
For those of us fortunate enough to live within an hour’s radius of the Chicago Bulls stadium, most could attend games and see Jordan fly through the air—as he did in many of the games he played hence the name ‘air.’ My daughter performed during halftimes on the official pom squad Jr. Luvable’s coached by the Bull’s Loveable cheerleaders for three consecutive years; all parents received two sets of tickets during the season. Our family and many families attended Bulls games; it was an exhilarating time, to say the least. Growing up near Chicago, screenplay writer Convey also remembered those winning seasons.
What makes “Air” so great is the entertaining performances by all the cast, although especially Matt Damen’s pouncy talent-scouting wizard Sonny Vaccaro, who knows the game of college and NBA basketball players like the back of his hand. A gambler himself, he’s willing to go all in on an unknown Michael Jordan, who he sees as the next big star.
Ben Affleck’s role as the laid-back, Zen-practicing Phil Knight, the founder of Nike, is spot-on. He and Vaccaro’s scenes are the film’s best, they both argue all sides, yet Vaccaro is dug in and uses his gut to persuade Knight to sign Jordon, even going so far as to pay a personal visit to his mother, Deloris Jordon played by the ever-talented Viola Davis. It’s made clear in the film that an uninvited visit to a player’s family is frowned upon; again, Vaccaro’s persistence is front and center. Even though Deloris Jordon scolds him for the intrusion, he doesn’t stop wooing her with his future plan for her son, and what a plan that turned out to be.
Vaccaro debates almost everyone in the film, although the craziest scenes are with Jordan’s foul-mouthed agent, David Falk (Chris Messina). His ranting and slamming of the phone are overdramatic, yet, they work, as Vaccaro laughs it off with a twinkle in his eye. Chris Tucker, as the motormouthed Howard White, now the Senior Vice President of Brand Jordan at Nike, had an advantage in playing his part; he and White are friends. It has been noted that Tucker also wrote his part of White using his own words; he’s also incredible after a seven-year hiatus from acting in films. Lastly, Jason Bateman, the divorced single parent dad, and Nike’s marketing director, Rob Strasser, offers a quiet yet affecting performance as he has so much at stake if the company fails.
The best advice is that it’s better not to know too much about the script and scenes as I loved viewing the film without knowing, and believe me, the artistic development of the Nike Air Jordon shoe is impressive. My six-year-old son and his one-year-old brother received a pair of Air Jordan shoes for Christmas; in 1985, the ‘Baby Jordons’ my son received are the exact pair in the Michael Jordon Museum in the Nike store in Chicago. Nike released the first Air Jordan shoe in 1984, designed by Peter Moore, played by the fantastic Matthew Maher.
The Bottom-line: “Air” recreates history in a dramatic, factual, and nail-biting way. The performances by all the cast are exceptional, be sure to pay close attention to Matt Damon’s plea to the Jordan family near the end of the film, as he gives an Oscar award-worthy performance.
“Air” opened April 5, the day I screened it, and will stream on Amazon Prime in the future, at this time, no date has been set.
Sarah Knight Adamson© April 15, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/john-wick-four.mp3Keanu Reeves lifts the “John Wick” series to new heights! Most of the world has somewhat of an idea that Reeves is an unkillable assassin. Having viewed all of the John Wick movies since 2014, I’m happy to say the newest installment is my favorite so far. Wick continues his search to defeat The High Table and finally finds a way to earn his freedom. Director Chad Stahelski reunites with Reeves for all to see this widely popular action star. You’ll see Morocco’s desert, Tokyo’s neon lights, and Paris’s breathtaking sights. Let’s say I’ll never view Sacré-Cœur Basilica quite e same way after Wick is thrown from those iconic stairs leading up to the top repeatedly for almost 30 minutes.
With a run-time of nearly 3 hours, you’ll see Wick falling from back-breaking heights, especially stairs, as mentioned above, being tossed about by fast-moving vehicles and constantly pursued. All the while, he’s punching, kicking, stabbing, and shooting his way through all the armed assailants.
The script highlights his enemies’ backstories and current lives, which turns into a wild ride. Donnie Yen’s assassin Caine is called back into action, although yet he claims he’s retired although a threat has been put into action to his daughter with Marques as the culprit, his interactions with Wick are priceless.
Bill Skarsgård, as the Marquis de Gramont, is a new player and functions as the new sheriff, so to speak. His goal is to rid the world of John Wick forever. He also serves as the disgruntled voice of The High Table. He shows his ruthlessness and evil ways early on. Yes, in Chapter Four, it’s almost as if the entire world is against Wick, especially after the enormously high bounty is placed on his head. Although never fear, Wick is simply unkillable, which is fine with me as I’m hoping he’ll appear in Chapter 5.
The Bottom-Line? I’ve seen all the John Wick movies since 2014 and enjoyed this one the best! The script is more developed, as are the characters, Wick is perfect in this role, and I would love to see another film.
Sarah Knight Adamson© April 1, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/shazam-fury-of-the-gods.mp3The sci-fi teen drama, with action, adventure, and humor, is set in modern-day Philadelphia two years after Thaddeus Sivana’s defeat in “Shazam!” The two daughters (Hespera and Kalpso) of Titan Atlas (Hellen Mirren and Lucy Lui) broke into the Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece, and stole the Wizard’s staff. The pair make a shattering entrance. Toggling back and forth between Earth and the other realms, the sisters’ central vow is to destroy Earth and its people.
In Philadelphia, Shazam’s foster siblings are drifting apart due to all growing up and pursuing other interests. Billy, AKA Shazam, is also worried about being kicked out of the Vasquez family after he turns 18 as he then ages out of the foster system. He’s got lots on his plate, yet he keeps the humor coming and the jokes flowing. Billy discovers a new love interest with ties to the Titan Atlas sisters. She is sometimes torn as Shazam has helped her out of a few situations, which leads to an exciting plot twist.
What a fun hero movie, there’s so much to love about this film. The main character is heartwarming and endearing as he questions his every move. I loved the first “Shazam” movie and enjoyed this one just as much. It’s one of those popcorn munchings; sit back and be entertained.
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 26, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/moving-on.mp3My selection’s during the Toronto International Film Festival September 2022 started off with the comedic writer-director Paul Weitz’s film, “Moving On,” starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Malcolm Macdonald, and Richard Roundtree. The story centers on a man (Howard), played by Macdonald, giving a eulogy at his wife’s funeral; a college friend of his wife, Evelyn, played by Tomlin. She makes a comedic, somewhat snarky entrance.
A few minutes later, Fonda (Claire) gives a detestable stare while walking up to say hello to Howard; he gazes at her with astonishment and is shocked when she says, “Now that she’s gone, I’m going to kill you, and I’m going to do it this weekend.” Believe me, when I tell you this is not a spoiler, as Fonda proclaims this from the get-go. The entire film ends up being a comedy of errors of how she’s going to kill him and if that will eventually ever happen.
This is the second collaboration for Weitz and Lily Tomlin after 2015’s “Grandma,” the acclaimed road-trip comedy in which Tomlin’s character accompanies her granddaughter on a mission to obtain an abortion. “Moving On” contains themes of loss, aging, hurt, regrets, and love are all mixed in the film—one minute you’ll be laughing, and the next will bring you to tears. A thoroughly entertaining film with outstanding performances by all.
My Zoom interview took place with Paul Weitz on March 15, 2023, and to say I was delighted to meet the Academy Award nominee director/writer was an understatement. Our conversation centered on his recent film, “American Pie,” Jennifer Coolidge, and his experience working with his brother Chris Weitz, who is also a writer and director.
A Roadside Attractions studio production with Paul Weitz, the director and writer, told me that Lily Tomlin called him and asked if he would write a movie for herself and Jane Fonda.
The “Moving On” cast of Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, and Malcolm McDowell is a winning combination. You will laugh out loud one minute and tear up the next while viewing the serious scenes. The non-stop action is a comedy of errors and a sweet treat for “Grace and Frankie” fans as well.
Thanks for listening in tonight; I’m Sarah Knight Adamson, your National Film and TV critic for Sarah’s Backstage Pass.
Be sure to check out my interview with Paul Weitz, as we talked about the sisterhood of Lily and Jane in his new film “Moving On,” opening this weekend in theaters.
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 18, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/the-magicians-elephant.mp3Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be orphaned and discover that you may have a sibling? That’s the premise of “The Magician’s Elephant.” The film is based on the popular young adult fantasy novel of the same name by Katie DiCamillo. The fantasy setting is an actual small town in Europe named Baltese. Peter Duchene is a young orphan who lives with his guardian, an older soldier called Vilna Lutz. The town of Baltese is recovering from a recent war, and people are simply doing their best to get by, trying to put the losses of the past behind them.
After meeting with a fortune-teller, Peter begins searching for the sister he is told may be alive, and he must find the magician’s elephant to seek his answer. An overjoyed Peter, voiced by Noah Jupe, begins his quest with resolve and determination.
Wendy Rogers directs with a screenplay adapted by Martin Hayes of “Toy Story 4.” Peter finds the magician’s elephant and sets out to find the sister he has never met.
Ultimately, the movie is about achieving the impossible, following your dreams, and never giving up. The animation of the elephant is gorgeous; the colors are very bright and vivid. I gasped when I first saw the unique markings. A very determined Peter never gives up on his journey to find his sister, sending a great message to all. I enjoyed the film, and families will also; the story is a lesson in finding love.
“The Magicians Elephant” is playing in select theaters on March 10 and streaming on Netflix on March 17. I say, check it out!
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 11, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/outer-banks-creed-three.mp3“Outer Banks” is an American teen drama streaming on Netflix, created by twin brothers Josh and Jonas Pate and told through their childhood experiences. The brothers grew up on Kiawah and Johns Island in South Carolina and around Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina. They felt the class divide was real back then as the Kooks —families with everything, and the Pogues —families with nothing were apparent. Based on a group of teenagers, the premise is to show teens outside having loads of fun instead of in their bedrooms on their computers or cell phones. After viewing all three seasons, this makes sense; as we view the teens riding bicycles, motor scooters, and skateboards, they can also be seen scuba diving, boating, diving, swimming, surfing, and even some boxing. Rarely do you view them driving a car unless it’s John B.’s “The Twinkie,” a beat-up Volkswagen van with a smashed windshield and a gazillion decorative stickers. Yes, they are always in action, in constant motion.
Season one and two introduce the characters and their families, of which ‘drama’ is front and center in all their lives. Episode one of Season three finds the teen Pogues thriving alone on an island, which they have named “Poguelandia” because, to them, it is a paradise, as they hunt and gather food and make their own tools, and entertainment from nature. Very quickly they are “rescued” and thrown right into the middle of another treasure-hunting adventure, this one putting them directly on the road to the lost city of El Dorado. Season three is a treasure hunt for gold and to find El Dorado in the rainforest. By the end of Season three, new characters have been introduced while the theme of solving ancient mysteries and looking for treasure is in the mix.
My daughter is a big fan of the show, and she’s why I began watching it in 2020; I loved the outdoor cinematography, the ocean shots, and the beautiful sunny days. As the series developed, it seemed more like a soap opera with predictable storylines, although I found that aspect refreshing. Allowing the teens to be themselves running around, quick-thinking without much hesitation, and having the freedom to make mistakes, while the parent role models mainly needed to be more present. As the show highlights, money doesn’t make you a good person with the right morals. Basically, the characters are fun; it’s sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying the sun-soaked teens living their frantic lives.
Side note: I met Madelyn Cline at the Critics Choice Awards, and we talked about the show and her role in “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. She was lovely, and I’m happy I could speak with her.
Cast: John B, Chase Stokes, Sarah, Madelyn Cline, Kiara, Madison Bailey, Pope, Jonathan Davies, JJ, Rudy Pankow, Ward Cameron Charles Esten, Rafe, Drew Starkey, Big John, Charles Halfordand new to the group Cleo Carlacia Grant, .
Season 3, 10 Episodes
S3 E1 · Poguelandia
An unexpected rescuer takes the Pogues from a remote island to Barbados, where they encounter a powerful treasure hunter with his own agenda.
S3 E2 · The Bells
As her friends mount a rescue attempt, Kiara agrees to an uneasy truce with Rafe, and a familiar sound grabs John B’s attention.
S3 E3 · Fathers and Sons
Big John and John B pick up where they left off, for better or worse. Cleo and Pope form a new club, and Rafe reconnects with Ward.
S3 E4 · The Diary
An emotional homecoming is easier for some than others. Big John searches for the diary, and Ward’s plans for a prized possession don’t sit well with Rafe.
S3 E5 · Heists
Sarah convinces an old friend to help with a high-risk, high-reward mission; looking to access a museum collection, John B and his father get creative.
S3 E6 · The Dark Forest
Secrets threaten to drive a wedge between John B and his friends. Sarah revisits a past life, and Pope reaches a breaking point.
S3 E7 · Happy Anniversary
With Singh on the move, John B and JJ scramble to catch him while Pope makes a breakthrough, and Sarah questions where her loyalties lie.
S3 E8 · Tapping the Rudder
Rafe lays his cards on the table, and Sarah calls in two favors. JJ’s unorthodox plan to get to South America lands John B in hot water.
S3 E9 · Welcome to Kitty Hawk
With their ride to Orinoco waiting on the tarmac, Kiara and JJ run into several complications, and Rafe has a change of heart.
S3 E10 · Secret of the Gnomon
The Pogues’ search for El Dorado brings them deep into the jungle, where John B and Sarah face the ultimate test of their courage and family bonds.
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 5, 2023
“Creed III”
Michael B. Jordan continues his impressive film career, by taking the directing reigns in “Creed III.” Having arrived on the scene in “Fruitville Station” (2013) playing the role of Oscar Grant, the young man who was shot on New Year’s Eve while being handcuffed at the Fruitville Station in Oakland, CA, his career continues to skyrocket. Next, he played boxer Adonis Creed in “Creed” (2015), of the Rocky series, and in 2018, he starred as Erik Killmonger in “Black Panther.” He has an impressive career, writing credit for the first two films, and now making his exciting directorial debut in “Creed III” (2023). Yes, the last ten years have been a constant climb upward in Hollywood, starring, writing, and directing award-winning films. Which “Creed III” followers in this pattern of excellence.
Mila Davis-Kent, Michael B. Jordan, Director/Producer, Phylicia Rashad, Tessa Thompson, Jonathan Majors
Here’s the excellent news, in “Creed III,” not only are the boxing scenes choreographed to perfection with a creative filming flare added, but the primary story is also crucial to the film. We first meet Adonis and his family, a sweet young deaf daughter, Amara, Mila Davis-Kent, the ever-talented wife, Tessa Thompson (“Passing”), his mom, the iconic Phylicia Rashad, and his childhood friend Damien, played by the brilliant Jonathan Majors of (“Devotion”), and (“Magazine Dreams”). With an all-star cast and a deeply written script that goes full circle, “Creed III” is a knock-out.
The story is of childhood friends who reconnect after Damien has been released from prison for the last 18 years. Creed welcomes him into his life, home, and his boxing rink. Soon, the past catches up with both men, and things start to take an interesting turn. All the acting is fantastic, full of emotion and depth. Here, the script is key, which carries all into a winning film. I’d also say that Coogler has a future in directing—his creative shots and tightly framed scenes all added to the film’s impressive look.
Sarah Knight Adamson© March 5, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/the-bear.mp3The award-winning TV series “The Bear” is rated (TV-MA), which means for (mature) audiences, it’s streaming on Hulu.
Jeremy Allen White (“Shameless” 2011-2021) is ‘the Bear’ he’s a young top Michelin star chef who returns home to Chicago to help in his deceased brother’s Italian beef sandwich shop. The restaurant is based on Mr. Beef in Chicago’s River North neighborhood.
“The Bear” series is fittingly named, as the comparison of the large animal to the ‘essence’ of the show can be compared to a huge, encircling hug and a huge, vicious attack, as well as a consistent hyperactive tone, as in the movie, “Cocaine Bear.” White plays Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, and his brother Michael left him a sandwich shop in his will. The kitchen crew includes Michael’s best friend Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), a jerk; pleasant, calm baker Marcus (Lionel Boyce); and belligerent, self-righteous Tina (Liza Colón-Zayas). Carmy hires an ambitious sous chef Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), who trained at the Culinary Institute of America. She is the only person who truly appreciates the level of Carmy’s chef skills. Jon Bernthal, as brother Michael, appears in momentary, heart-wrenching flashbacks.
And why is the series so popular? It’s the pitch-perfect timing of the frantic light dialog between the actors, along with the never-ending intensity of life in a working restaurant kitchen. The exhaustive deadlines, the step-by-step procedures, the litany of repeated tasks, knowing that one mistake can ruin an entire dish—the list goes on and on. Not to mention, the directing by creator Christopher Storer is nothing short of perfection.
The realism of the chefs working in a kitchen has never been more true-to-life. I sat with the actors during the Critics Choice Awards, and while sitting next to Jeremy Allen White, he won Best Actor! It was exciting for everyone, and I recorded his special moment. Speaking with the cast, they are very excited about Season 2, which should be filming in Chicago now.
Sarah Knight Adamson© February 26, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/eighty-for-brady.mp3
Are you looking for an uplifting film? “80 for Brady,” starring Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field, is your winning ticket. The movie is based on a true story of a woman approaching her 90th birthday who wanted to see Tom Brady play football in person. She creatively designed her own football jersey with the saying, “Over 80 for Brady.” In the movie, all the leading ladies are over 80, except Sally Field, whose jersey reads, “75 for Brady,” clever indeed.
In his feature film debut, director Kyle Marvin recreates the epic 2017 Super Bowl, where then-quarterback Tom Brady of the New England Patriots rallied his team to a historic comeback victory over the Atlanta Falcons. And what a comeback! Atlanta scored three consecutive touchdowns to a 21-3 halftime lead, and in the third quarter, they scored another touchdown, making the score 28-3. The Patriots rallied and scored 25 consecutive points, thus tying the game in the final seconds. The game is the first and currently the only Super Bowl to be decided in overtime. New England received the kickoff after winning the coin toss and scored a touchdown to win the game.
Not only do we see four amazing actresses having fun at the Super Bowl, we re-live the sports event with video footage and former Patriots Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, Danny Amendola, and Julian Edelman wearing their game-winning jerseys for the film reenactment of the intense game. The humor sprinkled throughout lifts the screenplay written by the duo Sarah Haskins and Emily Halpern are known for their screenplay “Booksmart.”
You’ll also see that friendship is the key to the film, as Tomlin’s character faces a challenging medical condition. Yes, the jokes keep coming, although the true message in the film is their friendship and support of each other even during difficult times. As Brady says, “Don’t ever give up; keep on fighting.”
“80 for Brady” is a laugh-out-loud movie with something for everyone, and who better to star in this film than four award-winning stars, Lily, Jane, Rita, and Sally?
Sarah Knight Adamson© February 19, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/poker-face.mp3It’s always a treat to have a new TV series that’s entertaining and, in this case, just plain fun. “Poker Face” streaming on Peacock is by the renowned writer/director from the creator of the “Knives Out” films, Rian Johnson.
Meet the new Columbo, ‘her’ name is Charlie Cale, played by Natasha Lyonne; she wears oversized sunglasses and a dusty baseball cap and drives a beat-up 1969 Plymouth Barracuda. Don’t try to underestimate her as she’s got any crime case solved, as she has a secret weapon. Each episode of “Poker Face” has a unique twist, as Cale can tell when a person is lying. And…she doesn’t hesitate to find out the truth of every case.
The episodes involve another case, and typically another murder, whereas Cale shows up in some capacity (she is usually working near the crime scene as a waitress, cook, housekeeper, etc.). Each episode unfolds through flashbacks and flashforwards, highlighting clues to be considered.
I’ve enjoyed the first five Episodes and look forward to the next five. The guest celebrities are loads of fun to watch, as in Adrien Brody, Benjamin Bratt, and Judith Light. There’s something about the charisma of Natasha’s character that makes the series so entertaining and of course, Rian Johnson’s excellent scripts. Looks for different writers and directors throughout the season.
I’m Sarah Knight Adamson, your film and TV critic for Sarah’s Backstage Pass. Be sure to check out my top 15 film reviews of the 30 I screened at the Sundance Film Festival.
Sarah Knight Adamson© February 5, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/sundance.mp3The Sundance Film Festival, located in Park City, Utah, is the largest independent film festival in the United States. Having covered it remotely for the last three years, I was anxious to attend in person. The festival started on January 19 and concluded on January 29. I arrived the day before with my agenda, which included; visiting the press office, checking out the location of the film venues while attempting to lock in my schedule. Securing a Hybrid Press Pass, I had access to in-person and online screenings, although not all films were available to view online. I screened 30 films and enjoyed the majestic snowcapped mountain feeling of being in Park City, along with cohorting with fellow journalists.
Luckily, I had flexibility in my schedule as I met Cady Coleman, an astronaut, who was the main subject of the incredible film “The Longest Goodbye,” during breakfast the following day. Her documentary film premiered at the iconic Egyptian Theater opening night of the festival, and I was invited to attend the Press Line (Red Carpet) on the third floor of the theater, along with one-on-one interviews with both Coleman and director Ido Mizrahy. To say my festival experience began on a successful note would be an understatement.
MY TOP 15 OF 30 I SCREENED, 99 FEATURE FILMS WERE OFFERED
Listed in order of my favorites:
- STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie2. The Longest Goodbye3. Little Richard: I Am Everything4. Judy Blume Forever5. Radical6. Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields7. Polite Society8. A Thousand And One9. Theater Camp10. 20 Days In Mariupol11. Willi Nelson & Family12. The Persian Version13. Victim/Suspect14. The Pod Generation15. Drift16. Going To Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project17. Plan C18. All Roads Taste of Salt19. The Starling Girl20. Squaring the Circle (The Story Of Hipgnosis)21. Rye Lane22. Run Rabbit Run23. Magazine Dreams24. Joyland25. BlueBack26. Fancy Dance27. A Little Prayer28. It’s Only Life After All (Indigo Girls)29. Passages30. Rotting in the SunSarah Knight Adamson© January 30, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-man-called-otto.mp3The best thing a film can try to do is shift through the impression that everything is a foregone conclusion, thus leaving viewers without any possibilities. “A Man Called Otto” starring Tom Hanks as Otto does just that, a depressed, suicidal elderly man who wants to end his life and believe me, this fact is made clear within a few scenes into the film. Here’s the good news, change can occur when one least expects it, and here a community of neighbors rallies.
The film is based on a popular 2012 Swedish bestselling book, “A Man Called Ove,” which I read and enjoyed; I also imagined Tom Hanks playing the part while I was reading. It’s a downer of a subject and not one that I’d particularly recommend, although the compassion of people can be surprising and, in this case, mean the difference between life and death.
Having been widowed and forced to retire from his job of 40 years, Otto is extremely depressed, cranky, and tired of living life. He attempts suicide numerous times in the film, only to be interrupted by his neighbors. I’m not giving away any spoilers here as one should know, in this case, what they’re getting into with a film. The most complex parts to watch are Otto’s profound loneliness and sadness. Although viewing the neighbor’s constant interactions with him is heartwarming.
Look for the driving scene in which Otto gives a speech to a forlorn pregnant mom that needs to learn to drive to take her kids to school. His sincere, motivating speech to her is incredible. Only the Tom Hanks could pull that scene off.
The film has value as you never know whom you may be able to help or if a person in need of help discovers it’s okay to ask for help.
The film is playing now in theaters.
Director: Marc Forester
Screenplay: David Magee
Cast: Mariana Treviño as Marisol ; Rachel Keller as Sonya ; Manuel Garcia-Rulfo as Tommy
Sarah Knight Adamson© January 14, 2023
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/1-women-talking-acapulco.mp3Oscar nominated screenwriter Sarah Polley serves as screenplay writer and director of a horrific story based on true events in a Mennonite community in Bolivia. Polley adapted the film set in 2010 from the best-selling novel “Women Talking” by Miriam Toews. The actual shocking events involved 151 women and girls in the Manitoba Colony—both women, girls, and sometimes their male husbands were drugged with an anesthetic spray used to sedate cattle. The men would then sexually assault the women; girls ages 5 to 65, at night from 2005 to 2009. Sarah Polley’s film is a master class in filmmaking; the outstanding cast, Rooney Mara (Ona Friessen), Jessie Buckley (Mariche Loewen), Frances McDormand (Scarface Janz), Judith Ivey (Agata), Sheila McCarthy (Greta) and Ben Whishaw (August) all give riveting performances.
In several interviews, Polley stated that she wasn’t interested in showing the violence. Instead, she tells the story through the women and the decision they need to make in 48 hours while the men are away posting bail for the attackers.
Their path is explained via a voice over. “We were given two days to forgive the attackers before they returned. We hardly knew how to read or write. But that day, we learned how to vote.” A small group of women retreat to a hayloft to have a debate and vote for the first time in their lives.
The illiterate women are joined by school teacher August, who takes notes for their historic meeting. The women determine that they have only three choices. They can do nothing, stay and fight, or they can leave. Salome does not hold back her anger during their discussion. She screams in frustration, “We know that we have not imagined these attacks!” “We know that we are bruised and terrified, infected and pregnant, and some of us are dead! We know that we must protect our children. I will become a murderer if I stay.”
A big hurdle is a fact that the women have been raised as pacifists; their religion guides them; therefore, forgiveness is part of their path to justice.
Ona, pregnant from rape, serves somewhat as the group’s inner conscience. She softly shares that even though her attacker impregnated her, she does not consider him a monster. She will love her unborn child and see the compassion and guiltlessness in her offender and future generations. “Surely, there must be something worth living for in this life, not only the next.” Ona ponders. “We cannot forgive because we are forced to. We are not all murderers. Why does love, the absence of love, the need for love result in so much violence?”
“It is a part of our faith to forgive. We have always forgiven those who have wronged us. Why not now? If we do not forgive these men, we will be excommunicated and forced to leave the colony in disgrace. And if we are excommunicated, we forfeit our place in heaven. It’s crucial to establish that we forgive the men so we can enter heaven’s gates.”
Ona does not see the males of their commune as criminals who deserve to be punished. This community does not have a criminal justice system. Her position shows that despite her current situation being with child as the result of a sexual assault that all life is precious. Her only option based on her faith is to give birth and love the child of her abuser.
The discussion continues as the women try to figure out if there is any way to change the patriarchy (male leaders) and improve their future. They discuss the fact that men have taught the lesson of power to the boys, although at what age do we think the boys will begin to disrespect the girls? Another challenging topic is at what age do we leave our sons behind with the men, at age 13 or 14?
The sepia tones of the film reflect the drab conditions of the women. Hildur Guðnadóttir, the composer’s musical soundtrack, evokes a doomsday and a call to prayer with haunting acoustics.
“Women Talking” addresses domestic violence, the power of working together, and the PTSD symptoms that are caused by abuse. At times there is laughter, a nice reprieve from the heavy drama as we see the women gain feelings of comradery during their sessions. We also see changes in the women’s demeanors and their loving actions as they hug or quietly pull back a whisper of hair from the face of a woman telling her story. They feel each other’s pain and need to protect themselves and their children.
Sarah Knight Adamson© January 8, 2023
“Acapulco” is a family-centered, fun, good-hearted TV series that takes place in 1984, the 80s music and wardrobe add to the fun of the series. Telling the story of twenty-something Máximo Gallardo (Enrique Arrizon), whose dream comes true when he gets the job of a lifetime as a cabana boy at the best resort in Acapulco. He soon realizes the job is far more complicated than he ever imagined and in order to succeed, he must learn to navigate a demanding clientele, a mercurial mentor, and a complicated home life, without losing his way to shortcuts or temptations.
It’s streaming now on Apple TV+ and has two seasons.
I really enjoy this series as it’s very funny, and will take you away to a beautiful setting with a variety of characters. 3 ½ stars out of 4
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Final-avatar-the-way-of-the-water-emily.mp3“Avatar: The Way of Water” opens this weekend! Do you remember viewing “Avatar” in December of 2009? I sure do; in fact, I saw it three times at the IMAX theater. My reaction was similar to seeing “Star Wars” for the first time. Here’s my “Avatar” film review posted on this website https://bit.ly/Avatar-Dec2009. After 13 years, the sequel is now here, and does it live up to the hype? Oh yes, definitely yes! The 3-D is the best I’ve seen to date—look for an underwater scene in which your 3-D glasses appear to ‘fog’ over. The stunning visuals, epic new family story, and a whale of a new character who steals the show all make “Avatar: The Way of Water” an entertaining film.
Much has been written about James Cameron’s intentions for the sequel and the other films that are being planned. “I’ve been thinking a lot lately about what art is in its essence. And I think dreams have something to do with it,” he told AP’s, Jake Cole. “There’s like a render engine or a narrative engine that runs in our heads every night. It puts images and scenarios together in some kind of sequence. Sometimes, most times, they’re completely illogical. But they have a kind of momentary logic to them. I’m always telling everybody on the film, this is a movie with floating mountains. It doesn’t have to always be logical. It just has to have that dream logic.”
That is the essence of viewing “Avatar: The Way of the Water,” it does feel dream-like and at times, illogical. However, that’s the magic of the film and why it does feel original and like nothing you’ve seen before. Look for an imaginary creatures called tulkuns that are similar in shape to a whale, with six flippers and six blow-holes, and is the size of two elephants. They have high intelligence, with a heightened spiritual and emotional essence. The reef clans view them as siblings and have a lifelong bond with a tulkun whom they call their spirit brother or sister. Lastly, you’ll find that they are hunted for a unique substance from a gland in their brains dubbed amrita that completely stops the aging process of humans. They are prime targets for whaling operations within the RDA and sell 1 liter of amrita for 80 million dollars.
“Avatar 2” opened to critics on December 6, thus continuing the story of actor Sam Worthington (Jake), a paralyzed marine who traveled to the planet of Pandora to get a new avatar body. More than a decade has passed, Jake is serving as chief of the Omaticaya clan, now has a wife, Zoe Saldaña (Neytiri), their oldest son Neteyam (James Flatters), middle child Lo’ak (Britain Dalton) and young daughter Tuk (Trinity Jo-Li Bliss), along with their adopted kids Kiri (Sigourney Weaver), and Spider (Jack Champion). Life is blissful until the humans predictably return, forcing the Sully family to leave the forests of their home to Pandora’s coastline, where they adapt to new challenges, new cultures of the reef clan, and a battle on the horizon.
After meeting Jake’s new family, we quickly revert to the villains, the Resources Development Administration (RDA), who tried to invade the Navi. The two forces clash again, and Jake’s children are taken, although they soon escape, although Spider is taken by Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang). Quaritch recognizes him as his son and spends time with him to learn the ways of the Navi. Jake’s family is now living with the reef people clan; they are viewed with disdain due to their human heritage. The scenes of the sea and its creatures are fascinatingly gorgeous; they are the most beautiful mesmerizing scenes in the film.
Conflicts between the kids and their new surroundings ensue, as threats from the RDA; the film holds a taut tension which at times is unnerving, although it keeps the story moving and focuses on the conflicts. Kiri acquires a spiritual bond with the sea and a tulkun; these scenes are my favorite as they highlight amazing cinematography using light and reflections. I appreciated the family-centered focus, although the film is not for kids. You’ll see violence and hear swear words with kids in harmful situations.
The Bottom-line: “Avatar 2” is epic, exhilarating, and entertaining.
Sarah Knight Adamson© December 17, 2022
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/devotion.mp3“Devotion” is a biographical war film that takes place in 1950 and is based on the 2015 best-selling book “Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism Friendship, and Sacrifice” by Adam Makos. The story centers on two US Navy fighter pilots during the Korean War. Jonathan Majors portrays Jesse Brown, and Tom Hudner portrays Glenn Powell. Their heroic sacrifices would ultimately make them the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. “Devotion” is a history lesson on what it takes to be a naval officer and an unfamiliar story of two real-life heroes from the Korean War.
Jesse Brown was the first Black pilot to complete the Navy’s aviation training program while overcoming discrimination. His courage and superior aviation techniques helped him soar in his job as a Navy pilot. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Purple Heart during his service.
Jesse’s relationship with his wife Daisy, Christina Jackson, is the mirror of the story as we see the loving, family man. If Glen Powell looks familiar, that’s because he played Hangman in this year’s blockbuster film Top Gun: Maverick. Both show flying navy fighter pilots, although “Devotion” is the real deal, the true story of the emotional stresses of the job.
Director J. D. Dillard premiered his film at the Toronto International Film Festival this year to rave reviews. Writers Jonathan C. Stewart, Jake Crane, and Jonathan A.H. Steward have screenplay credit.
The Bottom-line: I’m way in. Three and ½ stars out of 4, Here’s a story of friendship, sacrifice, racism, and courage. The Navy Fighter pilots heroic sacrifices ultimately made them the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. Unsurprisingly, both men are placed in danger; with “Devotion,” the horrors of war and cinematic bombast feels authentic. Bullets fly, explosions surround, and fighter pilots go down. It’s a harrowing sight as they crash against landscapes. Although, that’s the mission, to outsmart and out-shot the enemy. Not to mention the insane task of landing the planes onto an aircraft carrier at sea.
Runtime: 2 hours 19 minutes
Distributor: Columbia Pictures
Sarah Knight Adamson©December 11, 2022
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/glass-onion.mp3Yes, Daniel Craig is back as the world’s greatest detective Benoit Blanc in the second hysterically comical mystery. The new “Knives Out” adventure showcases the fearless detective at a lavish private estate on a Greek island, but how and why he comes to be there is only the first of many puzzles. Ed Norton stars as billionaire Miles Bron, who summons his friends via a mystery puzzle box to join him at his private estate in Greece to solve a murder mystery. Rian Johnson, the director, and writer of the first “Knives Out” movie, repeats his filmmaking role in “Glass Onion,” a stand-alone film.
Miles views his friends’ success stories as his own, as he gives them positions and cash to succeed. Janelle Monáe’s Andi Bran became his business partner, Kathryn Hahn’s Claire Debella was elected governor after struggling in politics, Leslie Odom Jr’s Lionel Toussaint went from third-grade science teacher to a working scientist, Kate Hudson’s Birdie Jay’s fashion career took off despite her incompetent behavior, she’s kept in-check by her assistant Peg (Jessica Henwick) and Dave Bautista’s men’s rights and Second Amendment activist the goofy Duke Cody took off as a Twitch streamer who’s romantically involved with the ambitious model Whiskey (Madelyn Cline) of the “Outer Banks” TV series. Each character has their own secrets, falsehoods, and motivations. When a dead body is found, everyone is a suspect.
Miles calls his friends “disruptors,” people who bucked the status quo in their own unique way and who have made a profit. The first film jabbed fun at the stale closed-off world of the generationally wealthy, “Glass Onion’s” knives’ target is ‘new money,’ and continues in an equally mocking way. The faux-murder mystery soon becomes a real murder mystery, and it’s up to Benoit Blanc to solve the mystery and keep himself alive. His role has been amplified, and to our advantage, this is a part he was born to play. I dare you not to laugh-out-loud, at his outrageous accusations. Who knew James Bond could be so comical? In addition, for the fashion conscience minded viewers, his wardrobe is fantastic!
TIFF premiere of “Knives Out” September 2019. Photo Credit: Sarah Knight Adamson
I screened the film in Toronto at TIFF with a boisterous audience that didn’t hold back the laughs—it was great fun, and I enjoyed every minute. At the conclusion, a standing ovation ensued. My mind drifted back to three years ago in Toronto when I attended the premiere of “Knives Out” and all of the cast walked out on stage with filmmaker Ryan Johnson and Toronto’s own Christopher Plummer, who sadly passed away in February of 2021. I enjoyed viewing Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Craig goofing off on stage.
TIFF premiere of “Knives Out” September 2019. Photo Credit: Sarah Knight Adamson
The Bottom-line: I’ve seen the movie twice, (Film Fest 919 in Chapel Hill, NC) and can say it’s entertaining. The script is playful and humorous; the stand-alone film has excellent performances by the lead characters, Daniel Craig and Janelle Monáe. It’s in theaters now and will stream on Netflix on Dec. 23.
Writer and Director: Rian Johnson.
Cast: Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Dave Bautista, Janelle Monáe, Kate Hudson, Kathryn Hahn, Madelyn Cline, Leslie Odom Jr., Jessica Henwick, Noah Segan, Ethan Hawke, Jackie Hoffman, Dallas Roberts, Hugh Grant, Stephen Sondheim, Natasha Lyonne, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Serena Williams, Yo-Yo Ma, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Angela Lansbury.
Run-Time: 2 Hours 19 Minutes
Hollywood 360 Radio Network Podcast: https://bit.ly/SarahKAdamsonGlassOnion
Sarah Knight Adamson@ November 28, 2022
By far, the anticipation of Steven Spielberg’s film “The Fabelmans” to premiere at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival was sky high! It’s not off to say Steven Spielberg sincerely phones home — as “The Fabelmans,” his artificially titled family substituting for “The Spielbergs,” is a memoir centering on his early...
Daniel Radcliffe is “Weird” Al Yankovic in this highly exaggerated story of his early childhood and rises to fame as a parody singer and accomplished accordion player. The film opened in Toronto to packed crowds, of which I arrived 45 minutes early for my film critic screening and was turned...
Film Fest 919, Celebrates 5 Years * The following article has additions that do not appear in the Alliance of Women Film Journalist article that was posted October 31, 2022, the additions are from Sarah’s personal experience as a film critic, board member and participant in the festival along with festival...
Yes, “Black Adam,” Dwayne Johnson has been freed from his tomb for almost 5,000 years and is ready to seek justice for his people of Kahndaq with his colossal powers. “Black Adam” sets up the realm of the “DC Extended Universe” with a surprise during the middle of the ending...
“Lyle, Lyle Crocodile” It’s based on the beloved children’s book series by Bernard Warber. The story begins in New York City, with a lively magician, Hector P. Valenti, played by Academy Award winner Javier Bardem. He dreams of being on a national talent show and finds a singing baby alligator...
“Moonage Daydream” is playing in theaters, and the IMAX it’s a documentary centering on David Bowie and his roles as a musician, painter, actor, and world traveler. Director Brett Morgen paints an intriguing portrait through Bowie’s interviews that span decades. Clips are shown that might have influenced David Jones as...
Oh yes, those Sanderson Sisters are back casting their spells! The wait is over; after 29 years, “Hocus Pocus 2” has dropped on Disney+. Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, the witchy sisters, are summoned back to Salem by way of the Black Flame Candle. Three high school...
The year is 1967 in Inwood, NY a Merchant Marine on leave, John ‘Chickie’ Donohue (Zac Efron), annoys his dad by sleeping late after hanging out all night with buddies at Doc Fiddler’s (Bill Murray) bar. His neighborhood friends are coming home from Vietnam in a casket—with the urging of...
Reflecting upon my fourth year of press accreditation of the Toronto International Film Festival, I continue to be impressed with the festival’s wide variety of films offered, the opportunities to meet talent, and especially viewing the films in their majestic, gorgeous theaters. This year press made selections via website total...
Hi Carl and Hello to all of our listeners out there; tonight I’m going to talk about a documentary that is playing in theaters, “Jose Feliciano: Behind This Guitar.” Here’s an up close and personal look at a talented singer and songwriter who helped break discrimination barriers. José Feliciano was born...
Hi Carl, and hello to all of our listeners out there. Tonight I’m going to talk about more films at the Toronto International Film Festival that has started and the Disney Movie Pinocchio. First of all, here are a few more films I have tickets for in Toronto. Wow, Viola...
Hey everyone in radioland, I’ll attend the Toronto International Film Festival in Toronto, Canada, on September 8, 2022. This year I was able to choose 20 films to view, and I am narrowing my list down a bit. I’ve very excited about the squeal to the famous movie “Knives Out,”...
The highly anticipated season conclusion of the TV show “Better Call Saul” ended with season six and did not disappoint. The “lawyer” centered show is a spin-off to the popular “Breaking Bad” series that premiered in 2008 and concluded in 2013, starring Bryan Cranston and Arron Paul. Bob Odenkirk stars...
“The Territory” is an engaging documentary from National Geographic Films that sheds light on the Amazon Basin in Brazil, providing a never-before-first-hand look at the struggles of the Uru-eu-wau-wau indigenous people and their land. The exquisitely shot film delivers gorgeous cinematography of the rainforest and the people that make the...
Director and writer April Wright created another outstanding documentary follow-up film to her historical movie, “Going Attractions: The Definitive Story of the American Drive-in Movie” (2013). The new drive-in movie focuses on America’s newfound love for drive-ins during the pandemic and their demise a few years later. The two films...
“Where the Crawdads Sing” movie is based on the bestselling book of the same name, written by Delia Owens, which has sold over 15 million copies since its release and is now in the top number one slot on Amazon as the highest-selling book to date. And what a page-turner...
Lesley Manville stars as an older widowed cleaning lady Mrs. Harris in 1950s London who falls in love with a Christian Dior dress—she decides to save her meager earnings until she has enough to buy one. This enchanting fairy tale nudges all never to stop giving up on your dreams....
Taika Waititi’s “Thor: Love and Thunder” is a triumph to behold, staying true to the tongue-in-cheek humor with solid themes of love and family—it’s one of Marvel’s strongest films to date. Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, and Tessa Thompson reprise their roles. The film opens as Gorr (Christian Bale), the villain...
“Minions: The Rise of Gru” takes place before the original “Despicable Me” movie franchise that started in 2010; therefore, it’s a prequel. With a setting of the 1970s, young Gru is proudly 11 and ¾ years of age—and eager to be villainous as he proclaims to his classmates during his...
Elvis fan or not, Austin Butler and Baz Luhrmann have brought America’s biggest rock and roll star to life with a renewed understanding and empathy. Presented through Baz’s iconic filmmaking style—dazzling, frantic, glitzy, over-the-top visuals, it’s his best film to date. The great news is he’s made Butler into an...
Disney Pixar’s animated “Lightyear” accomplishes its main film orbit in transporting a family-centered story with engaging characters with just the right amount of humor and adventure—after all that’s what you’d expect from a space ranger hero. Despite its “Toy Story” origins, the film serves as an entertaining stand-alone movie now...
“Chip and Dale: Rescue Rangers,” “Bad Guys” Hi Carl, and hello to all of our listeners out there. Here are the winners of the 75th Cannes Film Festival that closed last Saturday evening after 11 days of films. The jury led by French actor Vincent Lindon announced the Palme d’Or winner...
Cannes Film Festival Update: Downton Abbey: A New Era, “Stranger Things” Conclusion Part 1 Hi Carl, and hello to all of our listeners; the news from the Cannes Film Festival is that the movie Elvis is set to premiere. Here’s the excellent news, Lisa Marie Presley loves the film, as...
The generated hype for the long-awaited “Top Gun: Maverick” began with a ‘Global Premiere Red Carpet Fan Experience’ at the USS Midway Museum on May 4 in San Diego, California. The 250-foot Red Carpet commenced as Tom Cruise arrived via piloting a helicopter. Fans of the original “Top Gun” 1986...
As I mentioned last week on Hollywood 360 radio, I’m an accredited member of the 75th Cannes Film Festival, and I’ll be reporting weekly. The US film “Top Gun: Maverick” will open Wed. May 18, in Cannes. I will be screening the film and will report back next week. Forest...
I’ll be reporting each week on the 75th Cannes Film Festival held in Cannes, France, as I’m an accredited member of the press again this year. The festival starts May 17th, and tickets are on sale now; check out the links and coverage on Sarah’s Backstage Pass. Two films from the...
The well-known actor Nicolas Cage has become a Hollywood icon as he’s made his full-on gonzo-style acting technique his signature. I have to admit, at times, I found myself scratching my head while viewing another B-movie starring Cage—here’s the inside joke, Cage explains his career decisions by simply saying, “A...
“Father Stu,” rated R is uncharacteristically rare for a film centered on religion—just know there are many swear words throughout the entire film. On that note, Mark Walberg stars as Stuart Long (Stu) based on the true story of a troubled, foul-mouthed boxer that decides to become a priest. The...
“The Thing About Pam” is a true American crime drama starring Renée Zellweger as Pam Hupp, a friend of murdered Betsy Faria (played by Katy Mixon in the series) in Troy, Missouri, 2011. Originally a Dateline podcast, the 8-part ‘Dateline’ series also stars Josh Duhamel as a lawyer and Judy...
The 80s is known as the decade for outrageously fun romantic comedy adventures, such as “Romancing the Stone” and “Jewel of the Nile.” In recent years movies have become heavily dramatic, with emotionally injured characters presenting dreadful character arcs. Viewing “The Lost City” is the perfect respite and, personally, a...
Hi Carl, and hello to all of our listeners out there; tonight, I’m going to review two films. “The Torch” is a new documentary film based on the Chicago Blues legend Buddy Guy. At 85, Buddy Guy remains the leader for promoting the blues. He’s determined to pass the torch...
“The Batman” out of the gate, my reaction is wow! Robert Pattinson’s “Batman” has a gothic look and brooding attitude, fighting crime in a rainy, dark, gritty Gotham City. Co-writer and director Matt Reeves frames the caped crusader as a lone wolf who hunts, and at times he’s the one...
Here are two TV viewing options; the first is my favorite film of the Sundance Film Festival of the 20 movies I screened. It’s Amy Poehler’s excellent documentary film, “Lucy and Desi.” Lucille Ball’s daughter Lucie Arnaz’s personal insights are priceless in understanding the complexity of her parent’s marriage and...
Hi Carl, and hello to all of our listeners out there. Tonight, I’m going to talk about the movie “Dog” that’s playing in theaters. Channing Tatum stars as Briggs, a former Army Ranger who was forced off duty due to a traumatic brain injury. He’s longing to get back...
If you viewed Kenneth Branagh’s 2017 film, Murder on the Orient Express, you’ll have a good idea of the premise of Death on the Nile. The mystery thriller is based on the 1937 Agatha Christie novel, with Branagh returning as director and actor Hercule Poirot, the notorious Belgium detective, and...
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Hi Carl, and hello to all of our listeners out there. Tonight, I’m going to review a popular TV show that’s streaming now on Hulu, “Only Murders in the Building.”
Steve Martin and John Hoffman created the series. The ten-episode first season follows three strangers, played by Steve Martin, Selena Gomez, and Martin Short. They all live in the same New York apartment building and share a true-crime podcast obsession.
After a suspicious death in their apartment building, the three neighbors decide to start their own podcast about their own investigation of the death, which the police ruled a suicide.
Steve Martin and Martin Short play off each other with their signature chemistry as Selena Gomez makes a captivatingly poker-faced foil to the two older men. Together, they are an unlikely trio, yet are fixated with true crime. So much so they make their own podcast after a neighbor dies under mysterious circumstances.
Steve Martin plays the sour, pondering killjoy with discreet eccentricities. He lines up bell peppers in a pattern and makes omelets he never eats, self-talks about his father, and plays the concertina, an instrument that looks like a small accordion.
Martin Short is very lively and energetic as Oliver; he’s the life of the party and keeps the laughs coming. His quandaries are all his own making, yet he’s not always trying to jostle his way out of them. He’s simultaneously annoying and endearing while garnering the best punch lines.
I’m way in 3 ½ stars out of four; the series has something for everyone: themes of loneliness, friendship, and humor. I love generational scripts, and this one is pitch-perfect.
Next up Sundance update: Some Grand Jury Prizes were awarded to the films Nanny, The Exiles, and All That Breathes. Some of the Audience Awards were Navalny, Cha Cha Real Smooth and Framing Agnes.
My favorite films of the 20, I screened were Lucy and Desi, The Princess, Emily the Criminal, We Need to Talk About Cosby and Tik Tok Boom.
Sarah Knight Adamson© February 6, 2022
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/the-tender-bar.mp3 The film is based on the true story of news journalist J.R.” Moehringer, a Pulitzer Prize winner wrote a memoir in 2005 of his chaotic life during the 70s. A local bar became his sanctuary. The film stars Ben Affleck as Uncle Charlie and Tye Sheridan as J.R. It works on many levels, but it mostly works because it is heartfelt and emotionally honest. His childhood and young adulthood are not sugar-coated. We see a transformation right before our eyes.
The performances are tremendous, as are the film’s narrative. While dad is absent, Grandpa (Christopher Lloyd) and Grandma (Sondra James) and the rest of the home is filled with assorted children, grandchildren, and cousins. Young J.R. quickly forms an attachment with his Uncle Charlie (Ben Affleck), a savvy, charming underachiever who owns a local bar called the Dickens.
George Clooney is at the directing helm with a screenplay by William Monahan.
The bottom line here’s a film that has all-around great performances yet doesn’t lose sight of its main theme of how a neighborhood and an uncle can help tremendously raise a child and a teenager. It’s streaming now on Amazon Prime.
The Sundance Film Festival has wrapped. I screened 20 films. My favorite was the documentary by Amy Poehler, “Lucy & Desi.”
Thanks so much for listening in tonight, this is Sarah Knight Adamson your National film and T.V. critic for Sarah’s Backstage Pass. And I’ll see you next week with an update on the winners of the Sundance Film Festival.
Sarah Knight Adamson© January 29, 2022
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/women-of-the-movement-ozark.mp3 Adrienne Warren as Mamie Till-Mobley ©ABC
“Women of the Movement” is a six-episode anthology series based on Emmett Till’s murder in 1955 and his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, who became an activist for his justice. It has only been 66 years since the horrific murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till, a Chicago teen, who died while on vacation in Mississippi visiting his great uncle. Witnesses said he whistled and had a chatty conversation with a white woman shop owner, which led to his kidnapping in the middle of the night. The husband and brother-in-law of the female shop owner and three others tortured and ultimately killed him.
Adrienne Warren as Mamie Till-Mobley and Cedric Joe as Emmett Till ©ABC
A strong bond between a son and his mother starts the series with his challenging, debilitating birth. I would have liked to have seen perhaps another episode on Emmett’s younger years; his unique health situations could have been further explored, as other family home life situations with his father. At age fourteen, however, we are enlightened by the playful, adventurous nature of Emmett Till, a naïve teen. Single mom, Mamie Till-Mobley’s enduring love for her son stimulated a national movement that led the way for today’s racial justice movement. The tremendous performance by Adrienne Warren as Mamie Till-Mobley and Cedric Joe as Emmett Till is reason enough to view the series. Having viewed all six episodes, I’ll update this post in the next three weeks until its conclusion.
The first episode, “Mother and Son” directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (“Love & Basketball”), portrays Emmett’s distressing birth while fast-forwarding to his fourteenth year. A phone call to Mamie Till in Chicago informing her son that her son is missing concludes the episode.
The second episode, “Only Skin” directed by Tina Mabry (“Mississippi Damned”), shows the discovery of Emmett’s body and ends with a grieving mother’s decision to allow Jet magazine photographers to take and publish pictures of her son’s mangled face and in addition to hosting a public open-casket funeral which record numbers of people attended.
Mamie Till says, “People need to know,” and “Let the people see what they did to my boy.”
“Say his name,” an NAACP official advises Mamie Till when she hopes to bring publicity to her boy’s case. “Put his face in the papers.”
Quickly, it becomes crystal clear that the focal point is a Mother’s life journey to educate the world about the injustice of her son’s death.
“Women of the Movement” will be broadcast in three parts over three weeks, two episodes per night, on Jan. 6, 13, and 20. The parts will air at 7 p.m. Central Standard Time.
Sarah Knight Adamson© January 5, 2022
Update: Jan. 7, 2022
Los Angeles Times Greg Braxton writes:
“Women of the Movement” represents a breakthrough moment for broadcast television. Rarely has a major network explored in depth this violent moment in America’s racial history, and done so this unsparingly.
“We feel extremely strongly about the story, and why it’s such an important story to tell,” said Simran Sethi, executive vice president of development and content strategy for ABC Entertainment. “As a broadcast network, we have the ability and responsibility to reach the biggest audience possible. This project touches on a moment that is heartbreaking, but we really want to honor Mamie’s legacy and for people to see the truth.”
Ozark rated (R) Season 4 is streaming on Netflix starting January 21, 2022. There are seven episodes, with the final seven episodes airing next year. Jason Bateman directs and produces the series; he also plays Marty Byrde, the main character.
After a money-laundering scheme for a Mexican Drug cartel goes terribly wrong in Chicago, Marty, a financial advisor, moves his wife, Wendy, played by Laura Linney, and their two children to Lake of the Ozarks to set up a more extensive operation. The Byrde family live in Naperville, IL, a suburb of Chicago, and their daughter, Charlotte, Sofia Hublitz, has been nicknamed Naper-Thrill by her local High School classmates.
Marty becomes entwined with local criminals upon arrival in Missouri, including the Langmore and Snell families and later the Kansas City Mafia. The first three episodes are violent as the local criminals make their own rules and serve their own judgments. Darlene Snell is a powerful matriarch in the Ozark series; although she quotes Bible verses, she also consistently evokes violent deeds.
Before diving into Season 4, I would highly suggest re-watching the last episode of Season 3, as it’s been almost two years since that time. The final season is full of plot twists, engaging storylines, and excellent performances. You’ll see Ruth Langmore (Julie Garner) changing alliances as she’s furious over Wendy’s involvement in her brother Ben’s murder.
The scenes with Ruth and Marty have always been my favorite as the unlikely pair need each other to navigate their personal goals in life. Marty needs help with his money laundering business, running the casino, and learning the ways of the Ozark system. Ruth desires to be given responsibility and trust to fulfill her dream of having a better life. Ruth also lacks family support and mentorship; Marty is always willing to accommodate.
Special Agent Maya Miller (Jessica Frances Dukes), an FBI forensic accountant who was sent to audit the Byrde’s casino boat in Season 3, continues her role. Maya has become more entrenched in the Byrde’s affairs and displays envying respect for Marty’s money laundering skills. Maya works with the Byrdes to potentially cut a deal for drug lord Omar Navarro.
Navarro’s empire is front and center as he killed Helen, his lawyer, in the final episode of Season 3 in front of the Byre’s. Omar Navarro’s fearsome nephew Javi Elizondro (Alfonso Herrera) is the show’s main villain going forward. The tension between the two over control of the cartel is shown as Omar plots his deal with the FBI for his exit. He’s a wild card, and we are unsure of his behavior, although all indications are in a power struggle.
Please remember that “Ozark” is a violent, shocking, and somewhat depressing show, with excellent performances.
Thanks so much for listening in tonight; I also wanted to say that I’m attending the Sundance Film Festival. The festival moved to a virtual format, and I’ve been watching some really great movies!
Sarah Knight Adamson© January 22, 2022
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/the-matrix-resurrections.mp3 “The Matrix Resurrections” is the sequel to “The Matrix Revolutions” in 2003. It’s also the fourth movie in the Matrix franchise that started in 1999.
Keanu Reeves plays Neo, and Carrie-Ann Moss is Trinity; they reprise their roles from the previous films.
The setting is 60 years after the events of “The Matrix Revolutions,” we find Neo living an ordinary life as a video game creator. He begins to struggle with knowing the difference between his dreams and reality.
Neo begins sessions with a counselor to sort out his troubles. He asks, “Am I going crazy?” Neal Patrick Harris plays, The Analyst and says, “We don’t use that word in here.”
The co-writer and director, Lana Wachowski, has written and directed the series from the beginning with her sister, Lily, yet she goes solo this time. It’s been 18 years since Neo and Trinity sacrificed their lives in the finale of the Matrix trilogy; Lana wanted to explore another chapter to the story with Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss—yes, they are back for another journey down the rabbit hole. Cue “White Rabbit” theme song.
Lily teams up with “Cloud Atlas” author David Mitchell and screenwriter Aleksandar Hemon. Together they continue the pragmatic crises of man versus machine, Matrix versus reality, and blue pill versus a red pill. As sequels go, this one seemed perfect as Moss and Reeves are reunited.
The film’s first hour serves as a reminder of the events that led to Neo’s first awakening. Clips from the 1999 film are shown and serve as a reminder.
There is more humor here, which is appreciated, and the chemistry between Reeves and Moss is a sight to behold. Their romance is, as they say, ”one for the ages,” together, they lift every scene. They deliver an iconic couple who are fighting for a common goal.
I’d strongly suggest watching the first “Matrix” as it’s been over 20 years between the films. The great news is that I loved the new film. Seeing Neo and Trinity reunite is so exciting; their scenes are my favorites. Another reason to see the film is the spectacular special effects.
Thanks for listening in tonight, I’m Sarah Knight Adamson, your National Film and TV Critic for Sarah’s Backstage Pass, and I’ll see you next week.
Cast:
- Keanu Reeves as Thomas A. Anderson / Neo
- Carrie-Anne Moss as Tiffany / Trinity
- Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Morpheus
- Jonathan Groff as Smith
- Jessica Henwick as Bugs
- Neil Patrick Harris as The Analyst
- Jada Pinkett Smith as Niobe
- Priyanka Chopra as Sati
@Sarah Knight Adamson© January 15, 2022
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Tonight, I’m going to review the film “West Side Story” it’s rated PG-13 and is the remake of the 1961 movie. Steven Spielberg directs with Tony Kushner as a screenwriter; I recently watched the 1961 film and couldn’t help but focus on Rita Moreno as she has a big part in the 2021 film. I’d also like to tell you that I have conducted a Q&A with Rita after a screening of “West Side Story” along with Russ Tamblyn (Riff) and George Chakiris (Bernardo), former stars of the cast.
The great news is that the updated “West Side Story” is as magnificent and in some ways better than its predecessor. Stephan Spielberg’s seasoned direction brings magnified camera angles that enhance the fast-paced choreographed dance numbers while illuminating the emotions of the actor’s nuanced vocal melodies. The closeups draw us into the characters’ storyline, individualities, and intentions. This technique raises the bar, as the songs and dramatizations heighten the viewing experience and deepen our understanding of the plot.
Speaking of plot, two gangs, one white, (Sharks) and the other new immigrants, from Puerto Rico, (Jets) similar in theme to Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” that draws a line a forbidding the two to intermingle— a line that may lead to death. Tony, (Ansel Elgort), founder of the Jets, has been released from prison; he no longer chooses to associate with the Jets. He meets a newly arrived to America girl, a Puerto Rican, the sister, Maria (Rachel Zegler, sister of the Sharks’ leader Benardo, (David Alvarez). Despite the loud vocal warnings, the two fall in love, yet as in “Romeo and Juliet,” there is no happy ending.
Other significant changes in the casting of Maria; back in the 60s, movies were cast with known box-office stars to draw in a crowd, Nathalie Wood was a popular star, yet she was white, the role of Maria, in today’s casting would typically go to a Latino/Latina actress, and that is the case here. Wood’s voice was dubbed as she wasn’t a singer, here Zegler’s vocals are beautifully highlighted. As a side note, Rene Zellweger did not sing Judy Garland’s songs; she was dubbed in “Judy.” In that case, the iconic singer’s voice is the focal point of the film, in “West Side Story,” the story is the key. One should also know that lip-synching is not an easy task, and in most cases, more difficult.
When analyzing the violence, the 2021 film is rated PG-13 for violence—blood is shed, creating dreadful anticipation for the rumble scene between the two gangs. To actually experience the two gangs fighting over race feels depressing and senseless, even more so today as we are subjected to racial violence in America in our daily news.
As for Rita Moreno’s new role as the is that of a drugstore owner Valentina, a role similar to the Doc character from the original, she’s warm but with a tantalizing sense of humor. She’s also wise and advises her community.
The Bottomline, the remake is tremendous, the choreography is on target, the drama has more depth, the cinematography during the vocal numbers resonates with viewers film in ways the original was lacking, and the depiction of violence creates higher stakes. I’d be remiss, not to mention the overall energy and look of the film— the vibrant colors pop against the gritty muted black and white graffitied wall and street set design.
I’m wondering if could Rita Moreno could win another Academy Award? I sure hope she’s nominated.
Cast: Ansel Elgort as Tony
Rachel Zegler as María
Ariana DeBose as Anita
David Alvarez as Bernardo
Mike Faist as Riff
Rita Moreno as Valentina
Director: Steven Spielberg
Writer: Tony Kushner
Run Time: 2 hours 36 minutes
Sarah Knight Adamson© December 19, 2021
Next up “The King’s Man.” It stars Ralph Fiennes (Orlando) and is a prequel to “The Kingsman” films. The beginning of the London secret service group known as the Kingsman is explored. The director and co-writer are Matthew Vaughn. Fiennes, who also executive produced, plays a British aristocrat and the Duke of Oxford. When he and Emily, his wife, and their young son Conrad visit a Red Cross aid camp in South Africa during the Boer War, she is killed by a sniper attack. The Duke of Oxford returns to England with one mission: to protect his son Conrad.
Orlando, a sworn pacifist, is determined that the world needs help to stop these types of conflicts before they occur. Twelve years later, Orlando recruits two of his servants, Shola (Djimon Hounsou) and Polly (Gemma Arteton), into his spy network dedicated to protecting the United Kingdom and the British Empire from WWI. Conrad, eager to fight, is forbidden to join up by the over-protective Orlando, who speaks with the leader of the British war effort to ensure Conrad cannot enlist. Orlando and Conrad also meet Captain Morton (Matthew Goode) and World War I-era British Army officer Herbert Kitchener (Charles Dance).
Tom Hollander juggles three roles (King George, Kaiser Wilhelm, and Tsar Nicholas). You may recognize him from Robert Altman’s 2001 murder mystery “Gosford Park” and Pride & Prejudice 2005. Most recently, he played the role of the band’s Queen long-time manager Jim Beach in “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
The major villian’s are Rasputin (Rhys Ifans) and Erik Jan Hanussen (Daniel Bruhl). Subtlety in most scenes are rare; while whiplash is evident, the transitions are sudden and unexpected. The toggling back and forth between and war drama and absurdity plagues the film as a ‘tonal mess. What does become clear is the set-up for the next installment with an even better cast namely Taron Edgerton, who is sorely missed in this film.
The Bottomline: I’m out two stars out of four; the script lacks the humor of the first two films and frankly is missing the actor Taron Edgerton. You may enjoy the action scenes, but those don’t carry the entire film.
Thanks so much for listening in tonight. This is your National Film and TV critic Sarah Knight Adamson for Sarah’s Backstage Pass.
Studio: 20th Century Studios
Run time: 2 hours and 11 minutes
Sarah Knight Adamson© December 19, 2021
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Hi Carl, and hello to all of our listeners out there. Tonight I’m going to review two films that are playing in theaters now.
First up, “Being the Ricardos” is a biographical drama. Written and directed by Academy Award winner Aaron Sorkin.
The film centers on the relationship between Lucille Ball, played by Nicole Kidman, and Desi Arnaz, played by Javier Bardem. William Frawley (J.K. Simmons), who played neighbor Fred Mertz, is Ball’s trusted confidante.
The film is marketed as taking place during a one-week period in the 1950s, although many other life events are also covered.
NICOLE KIDMAN on the set of BEING THE RICARDOS Photo: GLEN WILSON © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC
The transition to the black and white original “I Love Lucy” with the real-life Lucille Ball is a brilliant move.
We view the “I Love Lucy” rehearsals and Lucille Ball’s vocal input in every aspect of the show. Sorkin highlights her gift of comedy mixed with the stresses of dealing with a controlling husband.
I thoroughly enjoyed viewing “Being the Ricardos” as the performances are excellent by Kidman and Bardem. I also enjoyed Lucille Ball’s early work on her very successful radio show!
I’d say 3 and a half stars out of four. “Being the Richardos” is also streaming on Amazon.
Next up: “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” rated it’s PG 13. This supernatural comedy film is directed by Jason Reitman, the son of Ivan Reitman, who directed the original “Ghostbusters” in 1984. It is the sequel to Ghostbusters.
The setting is 32 years after the events in Ghostbuster II, a single mom, Carrie Coon, and her two kids inherit a haunted ranch in Oklahoma.
The family-centered film is a love letter to Harold Ramis, and I enjoyed seeing Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Sigourney Weaver reunite in a fantastic scene.
3 stars out of 4.
Thanks for listening in tonight; I’m Sarah Knight Adamson, your National film and tv critic for SarahsBackstage Pass.
Sarah Knight Adamson© December 12, 2021
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Tonight, I’m going to talk about one of my favorite movies of the year, “Belfast.” Kenneth Branagh, the writer and director of “Belfast,” creates beautiful moments that will stay etched forever in our hearts. This is a universal love story of family, culture, community, and country. Absolutely, one of my favorite films of the year so far.
“Belfast” is shot in gorgeous tones of black and white, depicting the late 60s during Northern Ireland’s turbulent times. The story is told through the eyes of a carefree 9-year-old boy, Buddy (Jude Hill), with solid performances by all, especially Judi Dench, the grandmother, and Jamie Dornan, the dad.
The movie is from Branagh’s own experience growing up in Belfast. A young mother (Catriona Balfe) calls her son to supper in the opening scenes. Buddy is playing dragon slayer down the street with some friends and has a makeshift shield; a trash can lid. We see the progression of the message until it has found its way to the receipt, at which point, he turns on a dime and heads home. The idyllic opening scene of children growing up in a protective, working-class Irish community creates the environment for the film. This carefree childhood quickly ends when a violent mob of anti-nationalist Protestants speeds around the corner setting fires to Catholic houses in the neighborhood. A frightened Buddy sees the mob and uses his trash can lid as an actual shield as he rushes to seek shelter in his home.
The scenes of respite are the family cinema outings—a Raquel Welch film of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang; one can only surmise the lasting effects these cinema outings had in Branagh’s path to becoming a filmmaker. As the conflict escalates with more and more people are dying or leaving, the family is forced to make life-changing decisions.
I can’t rave enough about this glorious, beautifully shot film. It will tug at your heartstrings while quietly teaching the universal theme of love. “Belfast” will stand the test of time and become a legendary film that will be viewed many times by many people throughout the world as it speaks to us all.
Cast:
Jude Hill as Buddy
Caitríona Balfe as “Ma”Buddy’s mother
Jamie Dornan as “Pa” Buddy’s father
Judi Dench as “Granny”
Ciarán as Pop
Lara McDonnell as Moira
Gerard Horan as Uncle Jack
Director/Writer: Kenneth Branagh
Run Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
Studio: Focus Features
Next up: Here’s the movie everyone’s talking about, “House of Gucci” staring Lady Gaga a Patricia Gucci, with Adam Driver, Al Pacino and Jerad Leto.
I’m in 3 stars out of 4 I need to warn you that the film is long, almost 2 and a half hours, also, the second half hasn’t found its center. See it for the campy performances, beautiful wardrobe and gorgeous set designs.
Sarah Knight Adamson© December 5, 2021
Izaac Wang, Darby Camp and Jack Whitehall in CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG from Paramount Pictures. Photo Credit: Paramount Pictures
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/clifford-power-of-the-dog.mp3 Hi Carl, and hello to all of our listeners out there tonight I will review two movies with the word dog in the title, yet they couldn’t be further apart!
First Up “Clifford the Big Red Dog” is a live-action movie based on the beloved Clifford the Big Red Dog books by Norman Bridwell. Fans of the books will be shocked at the quality of the film’s cinematography as this is live-action. Clifford has never ‘looked’ so real. Certainly not an easy feat to accomplish. The jokes do need a significant re-haul, and the story should have focused more on Emily Elizabeth, not the weird villain played by Tony Hale; note to screenwriter (aggressive sheep are not funny, and talking about sawing people in half doesn’t work in a children’s film), yet in the end the film has a big heart.
Yep, Clifford is enormous (about the size of an elephant), and he’s fire engine red! Emily Elizabeth, a 12-year-old, is played by Darby Camp, the director is Walt Becker, who brought us the “Alvin and the Chipmunks” movie. Emily’s single mom Maggie (Sienna Guillory), struggles to provide for herself and her daughter. Desiring a better education for her daughter, Emily attends an esteemed New York private school. Yes, they live in a lovely rent-controlled New York apartment, although they need food stamps to get by to make ends meet. Sadly, the smart and kind Emily Elizabeth is bullied at school. In this ” Clifford ” version, the breath of fresh air is Maggie’s fun-loving brother Casey (Jack Whitehall), who lives in his van.
As a former 2nd grade teacher, I used the Clifford books in my classroom to teach lessons regarding good deeds, kindness, empathy for others, and pet responsibility.
The books were well-worn and tattered as the kids couldn’t get enough of Clifford’s adventures. Personally, I’ve been looking forward to this movie in live-action form and am very impressed by the result. I can also breathe a sigh of relief that the filmmaker decided not to have Clifford speak.
The story begins with Uncle Casey, taking care of Emily Elizabeth while mom is out of town on a business trip. Showcasing New York’s lovely green spaces, they find themselves attending a magical carnival filled with exotic animals. Mr. Bridwell (John Cleese), is named after Clifford’s beloved author and creator, Norman Bridwell. His storyline parallels Oz from the “Wizard of Oz” books, as he’s magical with an ode to love and family. Emily Elizabeth is smitten after finding Clifford, the tiny red puppy, in a tent filled with a sloth, snake, and monkey. Uncle Casey is worried, the puppy is too small and might not survive. Also, what will his sister say about bringing a dog into an apartment with a strict ‘no pets allowed rule? At the end of their visit, Emily Elizabeth asks Mr. Bridwell if Clifford will grow. He replies, “Oh, he will grow…that will depend on how much you love him.”
The duo returns home without the red puppy, although Clifford does end up in their apartment and in Emily Elizabeth’s room for the evening. As in the trailer, we hear Emily whispering to Clifford in a sincere and caring tone. Yes, her wish is for her puppy to grow big, strong, and healthy—the following day is when all the shenanigans begin as Clifford has grown overnight into a big red dog. Of course, Clifford has trouble adjusting to his new size, and keeping him hidden is nearly impossible. The film’s strongest points shine when Clifford does his ‘good deeds’ as in the books. It’s just too bad there has to be a villain involved; this film could have delved deeper into family, friends, and kindness and still be a hit with kids.
In the end, the message of accepting differences is heard loud and clear, a redeemable choice in the movie. So cuddle up with your favorite pet or stuffy to enjoy a family-friendly film for all ages. Emily Elizabeth’s narrative is spot on, “Clifford doesn’t hurt anybody, he loves, and he’s easy to love back.”
“Clifford the Big Red Dog” is playing in theaters and streaming on Paramount +.
Cast: Darby Camp, Jack Whitehall, Tony Hale, Sienna Guillory, David Alan Grier, Russell Wong, John Cleese
Director: Walt Becker
Screenwriters: Jay Scherick, David Ronn, Blaise Hemingway
Run Time: 1 hour 37 minutes
“The Power of the Dog” rated R this is director Jane Campion’s western-based in Montana, and you won’t see a tail-wagging dog in this film.
You will see character studies of two brothers (opposite in personalities), Benedick Cumberbatch and Jesse Plemons, a new wife, Kristen Dunst, and her son, a sensitive male college student, Kodi Smit-McPhee.
Here’s gorgeous cinematography set against the backdrop of a 1925 Montana Ranch.
The Power of the Dog is based on Thomas Savage’s 1967 novel. It tells the story set in the 1920s of a Montana ranch and two brothers different as night and day. Case in point, one bath, the other doesn’t. George, the bather, is neat and polite; he wears his Sunday-best suits and ties to oversee his ranching duties. Phil is rebellious, crude in manners, and dresses as if he’s been on a cattle-herding job for months. Oddly, the brothers share a room in the large ranch house and sleep together most nights. When George falls in love and marries Rose (Kirsten Dunst), the widowed owner of a tiny run-down hotel, Phil’s jealousy consumes their relationship.
If you’re in the mood for a slower pace, with themes of reflection, frustration, dependency, loneliness, and anger, this film is for you.
This is Jane Campion’s first film in 12 years. She’s known for her Award-winning Academy film, “The Piano.” It was great to meet see her in person at a press conference and to hear all of the cast and filmmakers dive deep into the film’s themes.
Sarah Knight Adamson© November 21, 2021
Venus Williams, (Saniyya Sidney), Richard Williams, (Will Smith), and Serena Williams (Demi Singleton).
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/king-richard.mp3 “King Richard” (PG-13) is the inspiring biographical story of Richard Williams, played by Will Smith, the father and coach of the famous tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams is a crowd-pleaser! The film is directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and written by Zach Baylin.
The moving story is about a father who is determined to raise his daughters to be world champions—what is noticeable in the script is the strong mother-figure role as she’s the balancing act between he and the family. Utilizing a 78-page plan with a clear vision of the outcome, Williams plows ahead in his mission. The difficult circumstances are only obstacles to be overcome, especially pertaining to the neglected tennis courts in their city of Compton. Finding a work-around in every situation is intriguing to watch and serves as a model for others to follow—although perhaps not so brazen as Williams.
Will Smith transforms into his character, bringing us a nuanced and award-worthy performance. You can’t help but root for the entire family—especially as they load up all their belongings and travel cross-country to Florida’s pristine tennis training facilities. Yes, a leap of faith, although ‘the plan’ is central to the story.
I also appreciated the acting by the ‘Serena sisters’ Venus (Saniyya Sidney and Serena (Demi Singleton), showing us their athletic prowess. Each girl has her own strengths, which lifts the other. They were raised to champion each other’s success without jealousy, an important aspect to remember in raising siblings. The heartwarming script offers a role model to loving parenting, with education at the forefront.
The ending credits do show photos of the real family, which I always enjoy. Here’s a family film I can’t recommend enough.
Directed by: Reinaldo Marcus Green
Screenwriter: Zach Baylin
Cast: Richard Williams, Will Smith
Venus Williams, Saniyya Sidney
Serena Williams, Demi Singleton
Oracene “Brandy” Williams, Aunjanue Ellis
Robin Finn, Dylan McDermott
Steven, Noah Bean
Rick Macci, Jon Bernthal
Studio: Warner Bros.
Sarah Knight Adamson© Nov.13, 2021
Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana in, “Spencer.”
https://www.hollywood360radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/mass-passing-spencer.mp3 Tonight, I will talk about three standout films that opened toward the end of the Film Fest 919 in Chapel Hill, NC. “Mass,” “Passing,” and “Spencer,” and here’s the good news; they are all excellent.
“Mass” is playing in theaters now; it’s the story of two couples who meet face to face to discuss their sons. One of the couples has a son who died due to a mass shooting, and the other couple is the shooter’s parents, who also died. This is a compelling drama by filmmaker Fran Kranz, bringing four grieving parents together creates empathy for all. Ann Dowd gives a riveting performance as the mother whose son committed the horrific crime.
The film’s tone is similar to a stage play, watching four ultra-nervous people sitting at the same table—at times, the discussion becomes unbearable and different parents rise and move backward in hopes of shielding themselves from the pain. From the beginning frame, we are drawn in and are intrigued by this emotional gathering of people whose lives are forever connected.
The film “Passing” stars Ruth Negga, Tessa Thompson, and Alexander Skarsgard. It’s based on the 1929 novel of the same name by Nella Larsen—it tells the story of an African-American woman who has lied to her husband about her heritage and is living her life (passing) as a white person.
Rebecca Hall’s debut feature, “Passing,” which she both wrote and directed, closely follows the novel. The black and white film captures the essence of the late twenties, during Prohibition. The film centers on two high school friends, now in their thirties; their hopes and dreams are explored as well as their renewed friendship. (It’s currently in theatres and coming to Netflix November 10.)
I truly loved this film; its texture is rich in tone and visually appealing, the score is also outstanding. This year, their performances are some of my favorites; the ladies stepped back in time while immersing themselves in their roles. After viewing the film, I’m now reading the book.
“Passing” stars Ruth Negga, Tessa Thompson
Lastly, here’s the film everyone’s talking about, “Spencer” starring Kristen Stewart as Princess Lady Diana; this was the closing night film of Film Fest 919. Viewers should know, the film is not similar to “The Crown.” The script tells the story from Diana’s point of view, with fantasy interspersed. We view her struggles with the daily duties, protocols, and time restraints, and of course, her husband’s wandering eye.
The buzz on this film is Kristen Stewart’s performance, she just may win an Academy Award for her outstanding portrayal. Mostly, the solitary, and the sorrowful Diana, are highlighted—whether it be her bulimic condition of voracious eating followed by crouching over a toilet to throw it all back up or imagining the ghost of Anne Boleyn. The screen time is all devoted to Stewart, who’s on-screen most of the time. One can only wonder if she may have drawn from her own experiences as a victim of the paparazzi during the ‘Twilight’ movie years. There’s an agony that comes with overbearing scrutiny.
The tension manifests around Diana’s confrontations. It should be noted that Timothy Spall, the Queen Mother’s equerry (Major Alistair Gregory), who’s been brought in for Christmas to beef up security, comes across as part-jailor, part snoop. Spall’s sneers and puckering of his gaunt face is a menacing presence. Spall and Stewart’s dialogue is repeatedly on edge.
The always delightful Sally Hawkins as Diana’s dresser is a breath of fresh air, a genuine human connection, thankfully the head chef (Sean Harris) emits the same empathy and guidance. We are also privy to brief moments of playfulness with Diana and her sons, showing a devoted mother who longs for more time with her children. In the end, all know of Diana’s leaving the royal family and the tragic end to her life; if anything, the film demonstrates the determination Diana had for her own stable mental health and happiness, despite the pressures of her royal life.
The director is Pablo Larraín; “Spencer” opened Friday in theaters, November 5.
Thanks so much for listening in tonight. I’m Sarah Knight Adamson, your National Film and TV critic for Sarah’s Backstage Pass.
Sarah Knight Adamson© November 6, 2021