Saturday, April 27, 2024

MOVIES

THE MINISTRY OF UNGENTLEMANLY WARFARE (2024 & Book Review): A Daring WWII Action-Comedy

(With Life Lessons) It reminds us that heroes come in unconventional packages. It’s a rollercoaster of action, humor, and camaraderie.

ABIGAIL (2024): A Captivating Vampire Horror Comedy

(With Life Lessons) It invites audiences to question what lies beyond the mundane. It’s a thrilling ride that leaves you pondering the thin line between innocence and malevolence.

SASQUATCH SUNSET (2024): A Peculiar Family’s Forest Odyssey

(With Life Lessons) It invites us to step into the forest, shed our preconceptions, and witness existence through primal eyes, in an unconventional cinematic journey.

“STING” (2024): A Web of Terror Unleashed

(With Life Lessons) Sting invites you into its web, urging you to confront your deepest fears. Stream it for a spine-tingling experience that crawls under your skin.

CIVIL WAR (2024): A Dystopian Journey Through America’s Heart of Conflict

(With Life Lessons) It challenges us to confront uncomfortable truths. It’s a film that lingers, urging us to question our role in shaping the world.

Ricky Stanicky (2024): A Hilarious Romp with Imaginary Shenanigans

(With Life Lessons) Ricky Stanicky won’t change cinema history, but it’s a fun escape. Stream it on Amazon Prime Video and enjoy the escapades of these perpetually immature friends.

GHOSTBUSTERS: FROZEN EMPIRE (2024): Also, A History of the Ghostbusters Franchise

(With Life Lessons) This might not be a critical darling, but it offers a fun adventure with a mix of old and new characters.

THE ZONE OF INTEREST (2023 Movie & Book): An Idyllic House Adjacent to a Concentration Camp

(With Life Lessons) A challenging and disturbing film that is not for the faint of heart. However, it is a thought-provoking exploration of a dark chapter in human history.

POOR THINGS (2023): A Darkly Comedic Odyssey

(With Life Lessons) It is a rewarding experience for those seeking a darkly comedic and thought-provoking exploration of life, love, and science.

ANATOMY OF A FALL (2023): A Chilling Exploration of Deception

(With Life Lessons) For those seeking a cerebral exploration of marriage, deception, and the nature of truth, Anatomy of Fall is a rewarding watch.

20 DAYS IN MARIUPOL (2023 Documentary): A Haunting Look at War’s Devastation

(With Life Lessons) This is not an easy watch, but an important one. It serves as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.

FRIDA (2024 Documentary): A Raw and Magical Journey into the Life of Iconic Artist Frida Kahlo

(With Life Lessons) A captivating exploration of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. providing a deeper appreciation for Kahlo's artistry and enduring legacy.

96TH ACADEMY AWARDS CEREMONY: 7 Things You Should Know.

The 96th Academy Awards ceremony, held tonight (3-10-2024), celebrated excellence in the film industry with several noteworthy wins

FRIENDS IN LOW PLACES (2024 Documentary): A Look at Garth Brooks’ Dream Honky-Tonk

Garth: Let's create a bar downtown where everyone is welcome. And the whole bar is just about loving one another.

WHERE IS WENDY WILLIAMS? (2024 Documentary) Unveils the Mystery But Leaves More Questions

A thought-provoking and unsettling documentary that leaves a lasting impression. While it may not provide definitive answers, it compels viewers to engage in critical conversations about important societal issues.

DRIVE-AWAY DOLLS! (2024) Hitting the Road with Trouble

a fun and entertaining escape with its quirky characters, hilarious situations, and Coen brothers' charm. It delivers a satisfying dose of laughter and lighthearted adventure.

DIDI (2024) A Coming-of-Age Triumph at Sundance (With a Message From The Director)

(With Life Lessons) This is a heartwarming and captivating film about the complexities of growing up, and cultural identity. It has universal themes, relatable characters, and poignant storytelling.

Meet Me in Rome (2024 Rom-Com) Love Under the Roman Sun with Wit and Whimsy

a delightful rom-com that transports viewers to the sun-drenched streets of Italy while offering an uplifting message about self-discovery, embracing vulnerability, and the transformative power of love.

Oppenheimer Leads, Barbie Snubs Shock in 2024 Oscar Nominations

With "Oppenheimer" holding a seemingly strong lead, the remaining contenders are ready to fight for glory. The unexpected snubs of "Barbie" and other major titles inject an element of unpredictability. Oscar night on March 10, 2024, promises to be a night of surprises.

Role Play (2024 Series): Where Spice Turns Deadly

Emma and David's role-play night escalates when her assassin identity is exposed, sparking a perilous chase. "Role Play" blends dark humor with action; despite predictable twists, performances, especially by Cuoco and Oyelowo, stand out. Available on Amazon Prime Video.

Saliburn (2023): A Descent into Dark Desire and Deadly Secrets

Oliver Quick's summer at the Catton's luxurious Saliburn estate turns dark with secrets and murder, unwinding in Emerald Fennell's suspenseful 'Saliburn,' critically acclaimed for its compelling plot and rich character exploration.

Godzilla Minus One (2023): A Haunting Tale of War’s Scars and Nature’s Rage

This is not just a monster movie; it's a poignant, thought-provoking cinematic experience. It leaves us pondering the complexities of war, the strength of the human spirit, and our place in the natural world

Maybe I Do (2023) A Comedy About Finding Love in Unexpected Places

If you are looking for a heartwarming and funny comedy, then you will probably enjoy Maybe I Do. The movie has a talented cast and a heartwarming story

Gray Matter (2023 Max) The Girl with the Superhuman Abilities

A flawed but entertaining film that offers a few life lessons. The film's performances and visual effects are top-notch, but the plot is predictable and the film lacks originality. Overall, Gray Matter is a worthwhile watch for fans of sci-fi thrillers and coming-of-age stories.

MAESTRO (2023): Leonard Bernstein -An Artistic Innovator of a Generation

(With Life Lessons) A beautifully crafted biopic that pays tribute to Leonard Bernstein's legacy. Bradley Cooper's directorial finesse, coupled with stellar performances, elevates the film beyond a typical biographical narrative.

Napoleon (2023): Ridley Scott’s Tempestuous Historical Epic

Napoleon" is not just a historical epic, it's a deeply human story about ambition, love, and the complexities of power. I t has stellar performances, breathtaking visuals, and thought-provoking exploration of its central figure, Napoleon.

AMERICAN FICTION (2023) At Crossroads in Career and Personal Life

(With Life Lessons) A compelling exploration of creativity, identity, and the pursuit of truth. With its captivating storytelling and stellar performances, the film leaves a lasting impression

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023) Raiders of the Lost Audience

A satisfying conclusion that delivers thrills, emotion, and a worthy send-off for the iconic archaeologist. With its timeless themes and pulse-pounding action

The Shepherd (2023 Short Film): Also Book Review. A Miraculous Christmas Tale

"The Shepherd" is a suspenseful Disney+ Christmas short film about a pilot's survival on Christmas Eve in 1943. With Radcliffe and Travolta's compelling performances, the film delves into themes of resilience, belief, and family. Critics praised its storytelling and visuals.

The Equalizer 3 (2013) Denzel Washington Returns as a Relentless Guardian

"The Equalizer 3" transcends the typical genre fare. It offers a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy while delivering a thought-provoking exploration of themes like justice, redemption, and the enduring power of human connection.

The Holdovers (2023): Unexpected Bonds Bloom in Alexander Payne’s Poignant Holiday Gem

A heartwarming and humorous film that transcends the typical holiday movie fare. It's a testament to the power of human connection, the courage to confront vulnerability, and the unwavering hope that blossoms even amidst the coldest winters.

Priscilla (2023): Unveiling the Untold Story

A captivating and thought-provoking film that offers an understanding of the woman behind the legend. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories that often lie beneath the surface

His Only Son (2023): Faith, Fatherhood, and Sacrifice

"His Only Son" retells Abraham’s agony facing God's test to sacrifice Isaac, combining flashbacks of their struggles with infertility. Directed by David Oelhoffen, it critiques faith, family, and sacrifice, earning praise for its profound narrative and performances.

Killers of the Flower Moon (2023): And Book Review

"Killers of the Flower Moon" is not just a film; it's an experience. It transports viewers to a bygone era, reminding us of the sins of the past and their lasting impact on the present.

FOE (2023): Movie & Book Review. A Haunting Symphony of Survival

(Life Lessons) In a bleak dystopia, Saoirse Ronan and Paul Mescal struggle for survival when Aaron Pierre's stranger offers a dubious chance at utopia in "FOE."

Miranda’s Victim (2023): A Haunting Tale of Justice and Loss

"Miranda's Victim" is a powerful and important film that leaves a lasting impression. It is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and a call for empathy and understanding in the face of injustice.

After the Bite (2023 HBO Documentary) Coexistence: The Hardest Bite to Swallow

A powerful and thought-provoking documentary that offers a unique perspective on the human-wildlife conflict. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the challenges facing our oceans and the importance of finding a way to coexist with sharks and other apex predators.

Down for Love (2023) A Reality Show About People with Down Syndrome Finding Love

A heartwarming reality show that follows several people with Down syndrome as they navigate the trials and triumphs of dating.

Jesus Revolution (2023)

A powerful and inspiring film that tells the story of a pivotal moment in American religious history.

Heart of Stone (2023) Gal Gadot in Heart of Stone

Fans of the genre will enjoy the action sequences and Gadot's performance

A Man Named Otto (2023) A Story of Redemption

A heartwarming and inspiring film that will leave you feeling uplifted and hopeful.

The Secret Life of Amy Bensen (2022+ Series) A Must-Watch Romantic Thriller.

The romance was heartwarming and heartbreaking. I loved the way the series explored the power of love.

Boy in the Walls (2023 TV Movie) A Thriller Based on a True Story

Boy in the Walls is a suspenseful and disturbing film that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

LANDSCAPE WITH INVISIBLE HAND (2023): Book and Movie review. Love, Rebellion, and Alien Overlords

A dystopian YA sci-fi film based on M.T. Anderson's novel. It depicts Earth under alien rule, focusing on teenagers Adam and Chloe, who broadcast a fake romance for survival while seeking true freedom through art and rebellion.

Three Life Lessons From the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

The turtles are always willing to fight for what they believe in, even when it's dangerous. They teach us that we should never be afraid to stand up for what we believe in, no matter what the cost.

Wicked Part I & 2: The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz

Wicked is a story about friendship, courage, and self-acceptance. It is a tale that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

How did Barbie and Oppenheimer Crush the box office

The remarkable success of Barbenheimer at the box office can be attributed to a perfect storm of factors. From visionary storytelling and stellar performances to high production values and a well-executed marketing campaign

“Sound of Freedom” (2023) – Unveiling the Dark Realities of Human Trafficking

"Sound of Freedom" is more than just a film; it is a powerful call to action. Through its riveting storytelling and outstanding performances, it shines a spotlight on a dark reality that is often overlooked or ignored.

“Talk to Me” (2023) – A Different Horror Film

The story centers around a group of teenagers who use a mysterious severed hand to conjure spirits.

LOLA: A Revolutionary Time-Travel Journey Unfolds in This Groundbreaking Sci-Fi Gem

"LOLA" is a groundbreaking film that artfully fuses time-travel and found footage elements to deliver an unforgettable and clever narrative.

Disney’s “Haunted Mansion” (2023): A Spooky Adventure with Mixed Reviews

Disney's "Haunted Mansion" may not have lived up to the high expectations set by its predecessors like "Barbieheimer" and "Oppenheimer," but it still offers a spooky adventure that is worth experiencing on the big screen.

The Passenger (2023): From Silent Witness to Survivor

"The Passenger," a 2023 horror film directed by Carter Smith, follows Randy's harrowing journey with a violent co-worker, prompting personal confrontations and self-discovery. Garnering positive reviews for its thought-provoking themes and strong performances, it streams on Amazon Prime Video.

Why 2023’s Mission Impossible and Indiana Jones Failed to Make More of an Impact

Both iconic franchises that hold a special place in the hearts of many moviegoers, their lackluster performance at the 2023 box office can be attributed to a combination of factors.

“The Donor Party” (2023) – A Darkly Comedic Exploration of Relationships and Redemption

The film's exploration of embracing imperfections, understanding the complexities of human connections, and the themes of redemption and second chances add depth to its comedic narrative.

“The Ritual Killer” – A So-So Streaming Feature Film

A psychological thriller that weaves together storytelling, performances, and thought-provoking themes.

Remembering Pee-wee Herman: A Beloved Icon of Quirkiness and Laughter

Today, on July 31, 2023, we gather to remember the beloved comedic icon, Pee-wee Herman, who has passed away. Paul Reubens, the actor behind the lovable character, brought joy...

Maybe It’s You (2023): A Rom-Com Where Best Friends Take a Gamble on Love

"Maybe It's You" is a delightful rom-com that offers a fresh take on the friends-to-lovers trope. With its heartwarming story, laugh-out-loud moments, and relatable characters, it's a perfect film for those seeking a dose of romance and lighthearted fun.

Oppenheimer (2023): Christopher Nolan’s Haunting Masterpiece

The movie weaves together multiple storylines, exploring Oppenheimer's brilliance, moral dilemmas, and internal conflicts as he grapples with the consequences of his work on the atomic bomb

The Barbie Movie (2023) Explores the Quest for “Who Am I?”

This movie not only embraces the beloved Barbie franchise but also delves deep into the "who am I" theme

Cruise Control: An Homage to the Relentless Reliability of “Mission: Impossible”

The film follows Ethan and his close allies as they find themselves on the run from the U.S. government and the Impossible Mission Force, the organization for which Ethan formerly worked.