Craig David Dowsett talks about “Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood and Honey” and its planned sequel

Craig David Dowsett plays Pooh in the new horror film “Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood and Honey”. Media Mikes got to chat with him to discuss what it was like behind the mask and plans for the upcoming sequel due out February 2024!

The days of adventures and merriment have come to an end, as Christopher Robin, now a young man, has left Winnie-The-Pooh and Piglet to fend for themselves. As time passes, feeling angry and abandoned, the two become feral. After getting a taste for blood, Winnie-The-Pooh and Piglet set off to find a new source of food. It’s not long before their bloody rampage begins.

Film Review: “Summoning Sylvia

Starring: Travis Coles, Michael Urie and Frankie Grande
Directed by: Wesley Taylor and Alex Wyse
Rated: R
Running Time: 74 minutes
The Horror Collective

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

You’d think after writing for years and years I would have figured this out by now, but how exactly do genres get their assignment? Like, how does one decide if a film is a horror comedy or comedy horror? Does it make a difference? I always thought the first descriptor was ultimately what the film is while the second descriptor was the underlying genre. Regardless, for this review, let’s say that’s what is actually happening. While “Summoning Sylvia” is listed as a LGBTQ+ horror comedy, I would say it’s way more of a LGBTQ+ comedy horror.

Larry’s (Coles) three best friends have jokingly kidnapped him and taken him to a haunted Victorian home for his bachelor party, or, as the synopsis says, a gaycation, which is a fantastic word choice. I assume these actors are all and actually all know each other because the camaraderie oozes off the screen. However, Larry is put in a weird predicament because instead of having fun with his adorkable buds, he actually promised his hubby-to-be that he was going to hang out with his awkward, extremely hetero future brother-in-law, Harrison (Nicholas Logan). In a poor attempt to kill two birds with one stone, Larry, unbeknownst to his friends, invites Harrison to the party which gets stranger when one of Larry’s friends performs a seance in an effort to awaken the ghost of the home, Sylvia.

As not to spoil some of the twists and comedy of the film, “Summoning Sylvia” excels as a comedy, and mildly fine as a horror. The jump scares aren’t scary and almost feel a bit shoehorned in as if they were viewed as legitimate scares more so than a parody of jump scares, which would have worked better. The comedic moments are baked into the premise of friends having their house party weekend ruined, almost like a gay version of “Rough Night.” In fact, the best part of the film is one of Larry’s friends, Nico, played by Frankie Grande. Grande gnaws on scenery as much as he spits out comebacks and quips to his friends and Harrison’s homophobic remarks.

Not to be outdone, Coles shows his comedic timing as he plays negotiator between Harrison’s off-kilter persona and his flamboyantly gay friends. He also manages to be the emotional core of the film, handling the duty with nuance. A lot of the characters get their own moments to provide laughs and emotion, all working even when the acting isn’t up to par. That’s mostly because the characters feel genuine and real. Even when the paranormal activity amplifies, the actors never detach themselves from the reality of the situation unless it’s for belly laughs. While the ending doesn’t necessarily come together as well as the film probably thinks it does, the journey was worth it for the laughs. While the comedy is quite refreshing, it’s also very refreshing to see a predominantly LGBTQ+ cast, especially since the community has been a part of horror for decades. “Summoning Sylvia” is a quick, breezy, funny comedy dripping with horror cheese and cringe-inducing laughter.

Film Review: “The Unheard”

Starring: Lachlan Watson, Michele Hicks and Shunori Ramanathan
Directed by: Jeffrey A. Brown
Rated: NR
Running Time: 125 minutes
Shudder

Our Score: 1.5 out of 5 stars

Sound is key in horror. The jump scares are always accompanied by a sound blasting quickly out of the speakers, but in “The Unheard,” the film utilizes the terror of silence. Chloe (Watson), who lost her hearing as a child after having meningitis, is undergoing an experimental procedure to regain her hearing. To know if the procedure is a success, she must remain near her doctor and does so by staying in the secluded house she grew up in. Technically speaking, “The Unheard” is on par with the Oscar-nominated “Sound of Metal.” That’s about as far as glowing compliments go for this film though.

“The Unheard” establishes tension early on, but does nothing with it. Chloe begins to experience odd sounds, lights and things in an old VHS tape featuring her mother, who disappeared when she was little. All these storytelling breadcrumbs taste great, but have the worst aftertaste. Without revealing too much of the plot, the film makes the mistake of creating about a half dozen different subplots outside of the main plot, which makes it incredibly difficult at times to decipher which of the plots is the main plot and which plot is just a red herring. Is it her regaining her hearing and experiencing these weird auditory moments? Is it her doctor who seems off? Is it the boy in town that she’s told to stay away from? Is there something on the VHS tape? Is something going on at the house next door? The film asks a dozen questions and then doesn’t really answer any of them.

A lot of the issues in “The Unheard” wouldn’t technically be an issue if the film was drastically shorter. Since “The Unheard” clocks in at over two hours, that means we get to spend a lot of time with Chloe and all the strange side characters. While there’s nothing wrong with the acting, the film does become quite dull when Chloe investigates a strange sight or sound…again. Or when she uncovers something she can’t explain…again. Or when a character implies knowing more than they’re leading on…again. It almost becomes a parody of itself by the time the third act rolls around, because even the seemingly third act is just a misdirect before the actual third act.

The film makes the payoff so crucial to the overall film, that when it turns out to be a letdown, it kind of cheapens everything else in the film that works, like the cinematography, the audio manipulation and the acting. The film also has a problem sticking to a genre, or, at the very least, creating a mish mash of genres that flows evenly. “The Unheard” is choppy, unnecessarily confusing and bloated. I wish I could unsee “The Unheard.”

Film Review: “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves”

 

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES
Starring: Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez
Directed by: John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein
Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 2 hrs 14 mins
Paramount Pictures
Based upon the popular role-playing game, “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” delivers what the game’s players have desired for years – a good, entertaining movie that comes at least close to capturing its essence. While there is not a lot of depth to its story and its fight sequences come off as a little too staged, “Dungeons & Dragons” remains entertaining popcorn flick that parents can at least take their older children to.
After losing his wife to an evil Red Wizard, Edgin Darvis (Chris Pine), a bard and former member of secretive group called the Harpers, turned to the life of a thief to provide a better life for his infant daughter. Accompanying him was exiled barbarian Holga Kilgore (Michelle Rodriguez), amateur sorcerer Simon Aumar (Justice Smith), and rogue/con artist Forge Fitzwilliam (Hugh Grant).
Edgin became obsessed with retrieving an artifact that would bring his dead wife back to life, but the group is betrayed. For two years, Edgin and Holga languish in a prison before making their escape. Much to their chagrin, they discover Forge has become rich and powerful while assuming the title of Lord of Neverwinter. Worse still is that Edgin’s daughter has been turned against him.
Desperate to get his daughter and dead wife back, Edgin forms a new team of thieves that includes a reunion with the hapless Simon and the additions of Doric (Sophia Lillis), a shapeshifting druid, and
Xenk Yendar (Rege-Jean Page), a paladin who ages more slowly than normal humans. Together, they set out on a perilous journey filled with traps, artifacts, undead, and one obese dragon.
“Dungeons & Dragons” is nothing less than pure evening of fun at the movie theater even for non-roleplaying game enthusiasts. Pine is well-established as a talented actor, and he does not disappoint with the film’s most well-rounded performance. He also shares good chemistry with Rodriguez who plays the tough girl with a heart of gold. Finally, Grant is quite entertaining as the sleezy turncoat.
The Red Wizards are given a rudimentary backstory, but their villainy is paltry at best. This is emblematic of character development which is a little threadbare. Additionally, the action sequences are stilted at times and come off as unnatural and wooden.
Overall, “Dungeons & Dragons” remains a fun film anyone can enjoy.
“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” receives three stars out of five.

I Was RIGHT About Adam Sandler

 

Let’s take a trip back in time.  It’s 2011 and this site was still known as MovieMikes.  I posted a review for the Adam Sandler film Jack and Jill and all hell broke loose.  The reason?  I had rated it as positive on Rotten Tomatoes.  Let me go more in depth.  I was the ONLY critic to give Jack and Jill a positive rating.

 

If you’ve learned anything about me in the 13-plus years this site has been in existance, it’s that, even though I’m now 62, inside I’ll always be a 13-year old boy.  I love Adam Sandler’s goofy brand of comedy.  Yes, some of his films are pretty, well, not-good, but I usually laugh at them.

 

That was the case of Jack and Jill.  Yes it was durmb, but come on….you had Al Pacino singing and dancing for Christ’s sake!  I gave it 2.5 stars out of 5, but instead of rating it as “Rotten” on RT I rated it “fresh.”  And the madness began.

 

I received so many negative comments on the post on RT that they stopped allowing people to comment.  I received a bunch of horrible emails, many of which I can’t quote here.  What I thought was odd was that these comments began piling up the moment I posted my review.  The day before the film even opened.  These people were criticizing me for liking a film they hadn’t even seen.  However, there is a certain silver lining to this adventure as Adam Sandler recently was awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.  That’s right.  Richard Pryor.  Steve Martin.  Carol Burnett.  ADAM SANDLER!!

 

 

As the ONLY critic to give Jack and Jill a “fresh” rating, this site was not only mentioned nationwide on the “Opie and Anthony” radio show, but was mentioned on “E!” Entertainment Television.  Adam Sandler, and Mike G’s series of “Walking Dead” interviews that same year put us on the map!  Thirteen years later we continue to be one of the most popular entertainment sites out there.  And for that I say, “thank YOU, Adam Sandler!”

 

And thanks to all of yolu for your continued support!

Kyra Elise Gardner talks about her documentary “Living with Chucky”

After growing up within the Child’s Play franchise, director Kyra Elise Gardner (daughter of special effects artist Tony Gardner) offers a unique perspective on Chucky’s reign of terror in Living with Chucky.

The feature documentary will stream exclusively on SCREAMBOX on April 4. It will also be available on VOD platforms the same day via Cinedigm and Bloody Disgusting before hitting Blu-ray on April 18.

Chucky creator Don Mancini and franchise alumni Brad Dourif, Jennifer Tilly, Fiona Dourif, Alex Vincent, Christine Elise, Billy Boyd, John Waters, Tony Gardner, David Kirshner, and more spill their guts along with notable fans like Marlon Wayans, Abigail Breslin, Lin Shaye, and Dan Povenmire, among others.

Storming into pop culture in 1988, the killer doll known as Chucky proved that Child’s Play was anything but. It went on to spawn six sequels, a TV series, a reboot, comic books, a video game, and extensive merchandise. Living with Chucky recounts the dedication, creativity, and sacrifice that went into making the franchise and its long-lasting impact on the horror community.

DVD Review “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Complete Series”

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” aired on Nickelodeon in the United States from 2012 to 2017. It is the first time that the TMNT were created in CGI for an animated series after the movie (TMNT from 2007). It is the third animated series in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise, based on the characters created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. The series is also know as Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles for its fifth and final season. This release features all 124 episodes of the 5-season series in one box set for the first time ever! The show was previously released on DVD in over 14 volumes. If you are a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fan, then I would highly recommend picking up this set and it is very affordable for what you are getting!

Let’s do a quick role call of who played the turtles…Leonardo was voiced by Jason Biggs (American Pie), for seasons 1-2 and then Seth Green (Austin Powers, Robot Chicken) took over the role for seasons 3-5. Donatello is voiced by Rob Paulsen, who, fun fact, also previously voiced Raphael in the 1987 series. Raphael is voiced by Sean Astin (The Lord of the Rings trilogy) and last but not least (and my personal favorite turtle) Michelangelo is voiced by Greg Cipes (Teen Titans Go!).

Official Synopsis: Mutants Rule! Emerging from their hidden lair in the sewers, teenage bros Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael face off against the most dangerous baddies and the most delicious pizza in New York City! The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are martial arts masters-in-training on a mission to defeat all enemies, protect the innocent, and make it home in time to chill. With the help of powerful pals like April O’Neil, Casey Jones, and Ice Cream Kitty – plus the expert teachings of Sensei Splinter – it’s bros vs. foes when the heroes in a half shell take on Shredder, the Kraang, and the Foot Clan – one awesome attack at a time!

Alright, these 124 episodes are spread out on 20 discs, which run over 47 hrs of content. They are presented in widescreen with a Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track. Personally, it would have been nice to seen some special features included here besides just the episodes for us hardcore fans. For example, I would have liked to have seen the 2D animated special, Half-Shell Heroes: Blast to the Past included here as well as the series of short films that were released during the course of the series, including: Turtles in Time, Teenage Mecha Ninja Turtles, TMNT Team Up: The Short Series. Just an idea to have made this release more complete but if you are just looking for the core seasons, it will not leave you disappointed.

Film Review “Smoking Causes Coughing”

There’s bad movies and then there is SMOKING CAUSES COUGHING, which easily just scored the worst film I have seen all year…and I have watched some real crap. I knew going into this that Quentin Dupieux’s type of filmmaking isn’t for everyone but I have seen RUBBER and was a big fan of that one…but this film is basically unwatchable. The poster has a quote from John Waters (PINK FLAMINGOS) calling it one of the best films of the year, I should have taking that as a sign and steered clear from this trash.

Official Premise: A wildly inventive new comedy from Quentin Dupieux (RUBBER), SMOKING CAUSES COUGHING follows the misadventures of a team of five superheroes known as the Tobacco Force – Benzene (Gilles Lellouche), Nicotine (Anaïs Demoustier), Methanol (Vincent Lacoste), Mercury (Jean-Pascal Zadi), and Ammonia (Oulaya Amamra). After a devastating battle against a diabolical giant turtle, the Tobacco Force is sent on a mandatory week-long retreat to strengthen their decaying group cohesion. Their sojourn goes wonderfully well until Lézardin, Emperor of Evil, decides to annihilate planet Earth.

Trust me after reading that premise, you might be interested but let me warn you that this movie is that farthest thing from a superhero movie and doesn’t have any action outside of the opening scene. I would have loved to gone deeper into the powers of the Tobacco Force and their purpose instead we are left with them going on retreat and telling stories, which takes up most of the running time, and end up being pointless and rather boring. I wish I could have gotten my 80 minutes back.

1 out of 5 stars

C.J. Graham reflects on playing Jason Voorhees in “Friday the 13th Part VI – Jason Lives”

A 6’3″ former nightclub General Manager in the Los Angeles, CA market, C.J. Graham was spotted as a potential Jason Voorhees for Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives when he was playing Jason in a night club act, impressing the casting people from Reel Effects who were in search of a new Jason since the stuntman wasn’t coming across as imposing or powerful as they had hoped for.

C.J. Graham even performed “all” of the character’s stunts, underwater and being set on fire, to name a few. He reprised this role for Alice Cooper’s video for “He’s Back (The Man Behind the Mask),” which was written for and featured in the film.

You can find C.J. at most horror conventions around the world, as he enjoys meeting his fans. Jason Voorhees has become a global icon brand known throughout the world. C.J. Graham respects all the actors/stuntmen who played Jason and their contribution to the iconic brand.

https://jasonvoorheesstore.com/

Blu-ray Review: “The Woman King”

Based on the true events of the Agojie, an African legion of female warriors who protected their families and land from the ruthless slavers of the surrounding areas, “The Woman King” brings to life these powerful women to the big screen with some wonderful action sequences and an exquisite narrative on empowerment, family, and standing up to oppression no matter what the cost is. With a stellar cast and crew, “The Woman King” is a sweet and ferocious film that should not be overlooked.

This film allows director Gina Prince-Blythewood (her “Love and Basketball” has the honor of being released by the Criterion Collection) to showcase both sides of her creative endeavors. Her extraordinary ability to tell a soft and tender side of human nature and love while also revealing the true horrors of humanity with some gritty and well-executed action sequences that are all built around amazing performances from her cast including Viola Davis, John Boyega (Star Wars), Lashana Lynch, and Thuso Mbedu. The screenplay from Dana Stevens and her writing partner and actress Maria Bello gives ample time across its two-hour run time to explore each character with their struggles to survive and empower their families.

The Agojie were a real faction of strong, powerful women that protected their land and families, similar to the Dora Milaje from Black Panther or even the Amazons in Wonder Woman. Inside the African Kingdom of Dahomey, the leader named Ghezo (Boyega) has taken over where he must face two groups of people who have allied with European slavers in the 1800s. His army is the Agojie who is led by General Nanisca (Davis) who will do anything to protect their people and home. As a giant battle is brewing, Nanisca is training the new generation of warriors, one of which holds a secret about her past that might form a connection between the two of them.

Blythewood perfectly balances the action and chaos with scenes of tenderness and love between Nanisca’s tribe. The hierarchy of her world with their traditions are given areas to breathe that educate on what life was like back then in this part of the world. Attention to detail in the costumes and what happened in history make the moving parts of this story really shine since Maria Bello came up with the story when she traveled to this part of the world and toured the actual place where the Agojie set up shop.

“The Woman King” truly breaks the mold though with its incredible performances from Davis, Boyega, and everyone else involved. Not only do their physical performances turn into greatness, but their quieter moments of dialogue and true determination in empowering the new generation of fighters come across on screen flawlessly. It’s a great underdog story full of heart and emotion along with some exquisite action beats, all of which have that emotional heft with stakes that make the characters worth caring for. The Woman King is one hell of a great time that is full of inspiring moments and wonderful performances. I happen to enjoy it more at home than at the theater. No doubt I was tired. Very surprised it wasn’t nominated for Best Picture. Very Highly Recommended! Five stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Blu-ray Review: “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile”

Over the years there have been films/shows about talking animals but a singing crocodile? Would that really work?  Well…why not? First, make the large, green creature timid and sweet, give him a fantastic voice, and finally, throw in some original songs by one of the best music writing teams in the last decade.  That is the formula for a great movie and the idea behind this year’s Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.  With a terrific cast, upbeat, pop tunes, excellent visual effects, and a teen idol, pop star (Shawn Mendes) to be the “voice” of Lyle, the movie was bound to be successful.  And when I learned that Javier Bardem was in this film, I knew then it would be special.

Discovered in a cage in the back of an exotic pet store, the singing crocodile was given the name, Lyle,  by his new owner, Hector P. Valenti (Javier Bardem; No Country For Old Men).  A showman by trade, Hector sees Lyle as an opportunity for fame and fortune.  However, after training and practicing for their big audition, Lyle suddenly has a case of stage fright and can’t perform.  Having put his house up as collateral, Hector is forced to leave Lyle alone in the attic while he tries to make some money.  While Hector is gone, a new family movies into the house with no idea that there is a giant, singing crocodile living upstairs.

Bardem offers audiences an opportunity to see a whole other side of himself.  As a dramatic actor, he can move an audience but as a singing and dancing comedic actor, he surprises viewers with how good he can be.  Constance Wu (Crazy Rich Asians) also reinvents herself showcasing her theater background by dancing and singing right alongside a crocodile.  Winslow Fegley (Come Play), the young brother of August and Oakes, is excellent as the young boy who discovers Lyle in the attic and befriends him.

Unlike many CGI characters, Lyle looks outstanding in 1080p resolution.  It is obvious the time and care was taken to create him was worth all the effort as his CGI presence doesn’t appear to distract the view in any way, shape, or form.  The color palette is bright and abundant enticing younger audiences to want to watch it over and over again.

While the visuals are excellent, the DtS-HD Master Audio 5.1 doesn’t fare quite as well.  Mendes has a distinct vocal sound and quality and most of the time that shines through, but there are one or two songs that sound muffled.  Otherwise, the dialogue and music are of decent quality offering much of what one would expect from this level of film.

There is a small amount of supplemental material and some are with watching, others could be watched once and be done with them.  Extras include: Sing-Along Songs, Storytime with Shawn Mendes & Javier Bardem, Deleted Scene, Croc, and Roll Take a Look at Us Now -The Cast, and Music Videos.

Based on a children’s book, Lyle, Lyle Crocodile was a solid choice to adapt to film, and today’s technology allows for creating something entertaining without looking cheap.  Of course, it doesn’t hurt to have the current ‘it’ musical team of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (The Greatest Showman) pen some original songs for the film.  They are known for more upbeat, pop-sounding fare, and the songs in this movie are more of the same.  And when you have Shawn Mendes lending his vocal talent to that mix, you end up with a winning soundtrack that audiences could sing along with.

If you have young children at home, this is a no-brainer – go out and buy it today! Fun for the entire family. I thought the film was great! Three stars out of five. ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️

Film Review: “John Wick: Chapter 4”

JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4
Starring: Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen
Directed by: Chad Stahleski
Rating: R
Running Time: 2 hrs 49 mins
Lionsgate
When a film series is first launched, whether by design or by wild accidental success, the quality dims with each successive title. How many times have you heard someone say, “Yeah, I like number three but the original was so much better.” This is what makes the “John Wick” series so remarkable because each one somehow exceeds expectations and is better than the previous one. This is true of “John Wick: Chapter 4,” which is an edge-of-your-seat, action-packed film from start to finish.
We last saw John Wick (Keanu Reeves) bruised and battered after being shot multiple times, which was before falling several stories off a building. Since then, the has been hiding in the New York City underground thanks to the assistance of the charismatic Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne). His mission is simple – get revenge against the High Table. However, while killing the Elder, the only person above the High Table, grants him some initial satisfaction, it ends up causing a rippling effect across the assassin community.
One immediate effect is the arrival of Marquis Vincent de Gramont (Bill Skarsgard, “It”), a High Table senior member, at the Continental Hotel in New York City. Because of their failure to kill John, the Continental’s manager Winston (Ian McShane) and his concierge Charon (the late Lance Reddick) are stripped of their duties. This is just the beginning of a thirst for vengeance by the Marquis who forces Caine (Donnie Yen, “Rogue One”), a retired and also blind High Table assassin, to kill John. The twist is that the two assassins are old friends.
John seeks refuge in the Osaka Continental where another friend, Shimazu (Hiroyuki Sanada, “The Wolverine”), is the manager. But there is no hiding from the High Table and the Marquis’s assassins are soon swarming around John who is forced to kill more bad guys than in the previous three films combined in order to survive. Whether or not John gets his revenge is up to you to find out.
A continued strong attribute within the “John Wick” series is its choreography. A flaw for most action flicks with multiple fight scenes is that they come across as stilted. In the case of “John Wick,” its fight scenes have a chaotic fluidity that boils over into an operatic frenzy. It’s nothing short of masterful and credit to Reeves to being devoted to making his own scenes as realistic as possible.
Continuity is important as well. This comes in the form of director Chad Stahelski who has helmed every John Wick film since the series began nine years ago. The pacing and style remain as consistently entertaining now as it did in the beginning. More importantly, the continually evolving story is engrossing as it sucks you in from start to finish.
Some actors are seemingly born to play certain roles – Robert Downey, Jr. as Tony Stark, Sean Connery as James Bond, Sally Field as Norma Rae. Reeves was born to play two – Neo and John Wick. He still brings a fierce passion to the latter even though this is now his fourth time as this popular character.
Overall, “John Wick: Chapter 4” is easily the best film so far of 2023 and if you haven’t seen the previous three films then only one question remains – why haven’t you?
“John Wick: Chapter 4” receives four stars out of five.

Film Review: “TAR”

  • TAR
  • Starring: Cate Blanchett, Noémie Merlant
  • Directed by: Todd Field
  • Rating: R
  • Running Time: 2 hrs 38 mins
  • Focus Features
With the 95th Academy Awards ceremony just days away, time is running short to get prepared for your Oscar party. To help you get caught up, here is my take on the drama “Tár,” which contains arguably the greatest performance of Cate Blanchett’s career. Nominated for six Oscars, including Best Motion Picture of the Year and Best Director, “Tár” is a tale submersed in the classical music world featuring a renowned yet complicated conductor who in part falls prey to the cancel culture phenomenon.
A protégé of the great Leonard Bernstein, Lydia Tár (Cate Blanchett) has risen from humble beginnings in Staten Island to become the first female conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic. We meet her as she is promoting her upcoming live recording of composer/conductor Gustav Mahler’s Fifth Symphony at the New Yorker Festival. We also quickly discern that Lydia is heavily reliant on her personal assistant Francesca Lentini (Noemi Merlant) and her wife and concertmaster, Sharon Goodnow (Nina Hoss).
As the moment of her greatest achievement looms, storm clouds begin to brew on the horizon when a former student of Lydia’s named Krista commits suicide. Rumors lurk of a possible inappropriate relationship between the two and Lydia encourages Francesca to delete all emails involving Krista as the deceased girl’s parents threaten to sue.
We never get to know Krista nor the exact details of her relationship with Lydia, only rumors and innuendo. The one point of validation the story provides is that Lydia becomes drawn towards a young Russian cellist, which causes fractures to form in Lydia’s marriage with Sharon. Lydia is also shown to be a bit of an egotistical bully who begins to lose her grip on reality. The final straw is a newspaper article that accuses her in the court of public opinion as being a predator, which in turn threatens her career.
Classical musicophiles will undoubtedly love the film’s musicality and the nuanced intricacies portrayed between a conductor and orchestra. Those who are not could be lost by it all. The true strength of writer/director Todd Field’s work is his dialogue as it rivals the genius of Aaron Sorkin. Its richness is second to none even though the story itself can at times be as dry as burned up toast and a little vague.
The true star of the show, of course, is Blanchett who delivers Field’s words with epic perfection. The demands of her are high with some fairly long scenes yet she succeeds time after time. Blanchett makes us simultaneously dislike Lydia while also being intrigued by her. Ultimately, she is a pitiable character as she loses everything because of assumptions and rumors not based on any hard evidence.
“Tar” receives 3.5 stars out of 5.

“Mermaids’ Lament”: A New Film by Director GB Hajim that Teaches about Resilience through Trauma and Imagination

Los Angeles, CA – March 17, 2023 – Director GB Hajim is proud to announce his latest film “Mermaids’ Lament,” which tells a story of two women who find strength in each other despite their personal struggles.

The film follows two women: Oee (Dayva Summer Escobar) a traumatized woman who has lost her voice and may or may not be a mermaid. Her therapist, Dr. Nell Jamison (Justina Mattos) battles with anxiety herself, attempts to help Oee overcome her delusions and connect with reality. As they bond over their experiences, they learn to be resilient like the ocean and embrace the power of imagination to navigate the chaos of the world.

GB Hajim has been supporting the Hawaiian Renaissance through his multimedia work for over 25 years. He has produced over 150 Hawaiian language dramas, animations, documentaries, podcasts, and educational programs.

“Mermaids’ Lament” is GB’s second feature film, following the self-produced 2D animated sci-fi lesbian musical, “Strange Frame” (2013), which featured an all-star cast including Claudia Black, Cree Summer, Tim Curry, George Takei, Academy Award winner Gary Rizzo for sound, and Roger Waters of Pink Floyd for music.

GB is excited to bring his passion for storytelling and his love for the ocean to “Mermaids’ Lament.” He splits his time between working with the Hawaiian community, writing screenplays, freediving, and farming.

“Mermaids’ Lament” is a heartfelt and moving story that explores the power of imagination and the strength that comes from human connection. The film is set to premiere in theaters worldwide in the fall of 2023.

Trailer: https://fb.watch/jkxoeih6Lx/
https://www.instagram.com/mermaidslament/
https://www.facebook.com/MermaidsLamentMovie/

STUDIO GHIBLI FEST ANNOUNCES NEW SLATE FOR 2023

GKIDS and Fathom Events Bring Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki’s Full Feature Catalog Back to U.S. Cinemas Nationwide 

Studio Ghibli’s Series of Animated Masterpieces Begins by Celebrating the 35th Anniversary of My Neighbor Totoro on March 25th 

Lineup Includes First-Ever North American Screenings of SPIRITED AWAY: Live On Stage 

The Acclaimed Stage Production of Hayao Miyazaki’s Academy Award®-Winning Masterpiece

NEW YORK (February 28, 2023) –STUDIO GHIBLI FEST is back in theaters and bigger than ever – highlighting all ten of Hayao Miyazaki’s iconic animated films with Studio Ghibli, as well as the first-ever North American screenings of SPIRITED AWAY: Live On Stage, featuring two separate full performances filmed during the production’s acclaimed run in Tokyo last year. It’s a year of celebrating animation master Hayao Miyazaki with the first-ever nationwide retrospective of his Studio Ghibli works, including several anniversary titles: the 35th Anniversary screenings of My Neighbor Totoro, 15th Anniversary screenings of Ponyo, and 10th Anniversary screenings of The Wind Rises. GKIDS, celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, are proud to continue their partnership with Fathom events and expand STUDIO GHIBLI FEST 2023 to more screening dates than ever before to meet increased fan demand.

“We’re excited to partner with GKIDS and honor Hayao Miyazaki this year by bringing his collective body of work to the big screen. He has always been a leader, visionary and inspiration to fans and critics alike and we know this series, including the debut of SPIRITED AWAY: Live On Stage will be well received by fans across the country,” said Ray Nutt CEO of Fathom Events.

“We are thrilled to return to theaters with STUDIO GHIBLI FEST 2023, in continued partnership with Fathom Events,” said GKIDS President David Jesteadt. “Over the past years, it has been incredible to experience the studio’s films on the big screen with fans, and this year’s focus on director and studio co-founder Hayao Miyazaki will celebrate the incredible films one of cinema’s greatest talents.”

Each of the 10 animated features will be shown in both original Japanese and English dubbed versions and will include exclusive selections from the documentary series 10 Years With Hayao Miyazaki. Tickets for STUDIO GHIBLI FEST 2023 can be purchased online now by visiting FathomEvents.comGhibliFest.com or at participating theater box offices. (Theater participants are subject to change). 

STUDIO GHIBLI FEST 2023 SCHEDULE:

All event listings are in local time 

My Neighbor Totoro 35th Anniversary

  • Saturday, March 25 at 3:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Sunday, March 26 at 4:00 PM (English Dubbed) and 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Monday, March 27 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Tuesday, March 28 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Wednesday, March 29 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)

SPIRITED AWAY: Live on Stage

*All performances in Japanese with English Subtitles

  • Sunday, April 23 at 4:00 PM (with Kanna Hashimoto as Chihiro)
  • Thursday, April 27 at 7:00 PM (with Mone Kamishiraishi as Chihiro)

Ponyo 15th Anniversary

  • Sunday, May 7 at 4:00 PM (English Dubbed) and 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Monday, May 8 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Wednesday, May 10 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)

Kiki’s Delivery Service

  • Sunday, June 11 at 4:00 PM (English Dubbed) and 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Monday, June 12 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Wednesday, June 14 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

  • Sunday, July 9 at 4:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Tuesday, July 11 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)

Castle in the Sky

  • Monday, July 10 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Wednesday, July 12 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)

Princess Mononoke

  • Saturday, August 5 at 3:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Sunday, August 6 at 4:00 PM (English Dubbed) and 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Monday, August 7 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Tuesday, August 8 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Wednesday, August 9 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed) 

Porco Rosso

  • Sunday, August 20 at 4:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Tuesday, August 22 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)

The Wind Rises 10th Anniversary 

  • Monday, August 21 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Wednesday, August 23 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)

Howl’s Moving Castle

  • Saturday, September 23 at 3:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Sunday, September 24 at 4:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles) and 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Monday, September 25 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Tuesday, September 26 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Wednesday, September 27 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)

Spirited Away

  • Saturday, October 28 at 3:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Sunday, October 29 at 4:00 PM (English Dubbed) and 7:00 PM (English Dubbed) 
  • Monday, October 30 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)
  • Tuesday, October 31 at 7:00 PM (Japanese with Subtitles)
  • Wednesday, November 1 at 7:00 PM (English Dubbed)

About Fathom Events

Fathom is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal Cinemas, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in all of the top U.S. markets and to more than 45 countries. For more information, visit www.FathomEvents.com

About GKIDS

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, GKIDS is the producer and distributor of artist-driven and award-winning animation from around the world. Since 2010, the company has scored an astounding 12 Best Animated Feature Oscar nominations with The Secret of Kells in 2010, A Cat in Paris and Chico & Rita in 2012, Ernest & Celestine in 2014, The Tale of The Princess Kaguya and Song of the Sea in 2015, Boy and the World and When Marnie Was There in 2016, My Life as a Zucchini in 2017, The Breadwinner in 2018, Mirai in 2019, and Wolfwalkers in 2021. GKIDS handles North American distribution for the famed Studio Ghibli library of films, one of the world’s most coveted animation collections with titles Spirited AwayMy Neighbor TotoroPrincess Mononoke and others; as well as the critically acclaimed television series, NEON GENESIS EVANGELION. Also, GKIDS is the founder and host of ANIMATION IS FILM, the annual LA-based film festival which embraces the highest aspirations of animation as a cinematic art form, and is a vocal advocate for filmmakers who push the boundaries of the medium to its fullest range of artistic expressions. www.gkids.com

About Studio Ghibli

Studio Ghibli is one of the most acclaimed and influential animation studios in the world, inspiring filmmakers and audiences alike over the last 30 years with beloved stories and breathtaking visuals. Under the brilliance of visionary animation directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, and producer Toshio Suzuki, the studio’s films are known for timeless classics such as My Neighbor TotoroKiki’s Delivery Service, and Ponyo; and have won countless international awards including an Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature for Spirited Away, as well as five additional Oscar® nominations for Howl’s Moving CastleThe Wind RisesThe Tale of The Princess KaguyaWhen Marnie Was There, and The Red Turtle. Director and studio co-founder Hayao Miyazaki was separately given an Honorary Award at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ Governors Awards in 2014, and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures paid tribute to his artwork with a special exhibit when the Museum opened in September 2021.

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