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POWERSLAVE
40TH ANNIVERSARY ZOETROPE VINYL LIMITED EDITION

OUT NOW!
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In celebration of the 40th Anniversary of IRON MAIDEN’s landmark album Powerslave, BMG have released a limited-edition vinyl pressing to mark this historic record.

As the band’s first-ever zoetrope picture disc, featuring unique zoetrope artwork and the 2015 remastered audio of the album, this is a true collector’s item. The original sleeve has been expanded and contains new artwork and exclusive ‘Powerslave at 40’ liner notes from band founder Steve Harris.

In addition, there is a Walmart Exclusive version that includes a Lenticular 3D Album Art sized print. Powerslave is available to order now, https://lnk.to/pwsl40PR.

Originally released in September 1984, Iron Maiden’s fifth studio album Powerslave was another massive success for the band, charting all around the world including: U.K. #2, Switzerland #3, Norway #4, Germany #5, Sweden #5, New Zealand #11, Austria #15 Canada #21, US #21 and Australia #26, achieving multiple Gold and Platinum discs. It features the iconic singles “2 Minutes To Midnight” and “Aces High” alongside fan favourites “Powerslave” and the epic “Rime of the Ancient Mariner.”

Powerslave is beloved by fans and showcased the rapidly evolving ambition, sound and songwriting might of IRON MAIDEN as they were on the fast track to becoming one of the biggest metal bands on the planet; a position they have maintained to this day.

The album order link for Powerslave 40th Anniversary Zoetrope edition is: https://lnk.to/pwsl40PR

Trying Delta 9 THC gummies for the first time can be an exciting yet cautious experience. Delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive component in cannabis, is known for its potent effects, which can be both enjoyable and intense. 

To ensure a positive experience, it’s essential to approach these gummies with some preparation and knowledge. Start by understanding the dosage; beginners should begin with a low dose, typically around 5-10 mg, to gauge their tolerance. It’s essential to be patient, as edibles take longer to kick in—usually between 30 minutes to 2 hours. 

During this waiting period, avoid consuming more to prevent an overwhelming high. Consider your environment; choose a comfortable, safe space to relax. Hydrate and have some snacks on hand, as these can help mitigate any potential discomfort. 

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable first experience with Delta 9 THC gummies.

Is Delta 9 Good For Beginners?

Delta 9 THC can be a good option for beginners, but it should be approached with caution due to its potent psychoactive effects. Here are some considerations for beginners:

Start Low and Go Slow: Beginners should start with a low dose, typically 5-10 mg, to gauge their tolerance and reaction to Delta 9 THC. Waiting at least 2 hours before considering an additional dose is essential, as edibles can take time to produce full effects.

Understand the Potency: Delta 9 THC is the primary psychoactive component in cannabis and can produce strong effects, including euphoria, altered perception, and relaxation. For some, these effects can be overwhelming, especially at higher doses.

Choose a Safe Environment: Consuming Delta 9 THC in a comfortable and familiar setting can help beginners feel more at ease. Avoiding stressful or unfamiliar environments can reduce the likelihood of experiencing anxiety or paranoia.

Stay Hydrated and Have Snacks: Keeping hydrated and having some snacks on hand can help manage potential side effects, such as dry mouth or increased appetite.

Be Mindful of the Duration: The effects of Delta 9 THC gummies can last several hours, so beginners should plan their activities accordingly and avoid tasks that require complete concentration or coordination, such as driving.

Consider Alternatives: If the potency of Delta 9 THC is a concern, beginners might consider starting with milder cannabinoids like Delta 8 THC, which is known for its more subtle effects.

How Do Delta 9 Gummies Make You Feel?

Delta 9 THC edibles can produce various effects, depending on the dosage, individual tolerance, and other factors. Here’s how they typically make you feel:

Euphoria: One of the most common effects is a feeling of euphoria or happiness. This can be accompanied by a general sense of well-being and contentment.

Relaxation: Many users report a profound sense of relaxation and calm. This can be beneficial for those looking to unwind or alleviate stress.

Altered Perception: Delta 9 THC can change your perception of time, space, and sensory experiences. Colors may seem more vibrant and sound more intense.

Heightened Sensory Perception: You might experience enhanced sensory perception, making food taste better, music sound more immersive, and physical sensations more enjoyable.

Increased Appetite: Delta 9 THC, commonly known as “the munchies,” can increase appetite, making you feel hungrier than usual.

Dry Mouth: A side effect often reported is dry mouth, so having water or other hydrating beverages on hand is a good idea.

Possible Anxiety or Paranoia: In higher doses, Delta 9 THC can sometimes induce feelings of anxiety or paranoia, especially in individuals who are sensitive to THC.

Sedation: Depending on the dose and individual response, Delta 9 gummies can also make you feel sleepy or sedated, which can be helpful for those using them to aid with sleep.

Enhanced Creativity: Some users find that Delta 9 THC enhances creativity and makes it easier to think outside the box.

Body High: In addition to the mental effects, many users experience a body high characterized by a pleasant, tingling sensation.

How Beginners Take Delta 8 Gummies?

Delta 8 gummies are a type of cannabinoid product derived from hemp plants, similar to CBD but with psychoactive effects. Here’s a general guide for beginners interested in trying Delta 8 gummies:

Research the Product

• Quality and Safety: Ensure you buy Delta 8 gummies from a reputable source. Look for products that have been third-party lab tested for purity and potency.
• Legal Considerations: Check the legality of Delta 8 in your state or country, as regulations can vary.

Understand Dosage

• Start Small: Beginners should start with a low dose. Typically, one gummy contains between 10 to 25 mg of Delta 8. Starting with a half or even a quarter of a gummy (5-12 mg) is advisable until you understand how it affects you.
• Wait and Observe: Delta 8 can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect. It’s important to wait and see how you feel before consuming more.

Consider Timing and Setting

• Safe Environment: Use Delta 8 in a comfortable and safe setting, especially if it’s your first time.
• Avoid Operating Machinery: Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking Delta 8 as it can impair your abilities.

Monitor Effects

• Physical and Mental Effects: Some common effects include euphoria, relaxation, and alterations in visual and auditory perception. Be aware of potential side effects like dry mouth, changes in appetite, and grogginess.
• Allergic Reactions: Be cautious of any allergic reactions, particularly if you’re sensitive to other products derived from hemp.

Evaluate Your Experience

• After your first experience, evaluate how you felt, what you liked, and what you didn’t. Adjust the dosage accordingly for future use.

Store Properly

• Keep the gummies in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and away from children.

Conclusion: How Long Does Delta 9 Feeling Last?

Delta 9 THC gummies are a discreet and easy way to consume THC, and they offer a longer-lasting experience than smoking or vaping. It’s important to remember that Delta 9 THC gummies are a potent form of THC and should be consumed responsibly.

If you’re looking for therapeutic effects from Delta 9 THC gummies, it’s essential to do your research and purchase them from a reputable source. Look for gummies made from high-quality hemp then Grab some of our best CBD Products today, and be sure to read the label to understand the dosage and ingredients. Hemp products must contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC in order to be considered within the legal limit, so always check the label when purchasing. With a little bit of preparation and knowledge, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable Delta 9 THC gummy experience.

Overall, Delta 9 THC gummies can be a fun way to experience the benefits of THC. With the proper preparation and dosage, you can enjoy a safe and relaxing experience that can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and other ailments. Remember to start with a small dose and be patient, as the effects can take some time. Enjoy your Delta 9 THC gummy experience and consume responsibly.

• REBEL MOON PART TWO:  THE SCARGIVER
• Starring: Sofia Boutella, Ed Skrein
• Directed by: Zack Snyder
• Rating: PG-13
• Running Time: 2 hrs 2 mins
• Netflix

To be transparent, I have long been fan of director Zack Snyder’s work, especially his director’s cut of “Justice League” which I regard as one of the best comic book movies ever made. However, his 2023 sci-fi effort “Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire” was an utter failure in almost every possible way. The lone bright spot was the performance of British actor Ed Skrein (“Deadpool,” “Game of Thrones”) as the story’s principal antagonist. Unfortunately, not much has changed with Snyder’s deplorable sequel, “Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver.” Filled with more unnecessary slow-motion shots than a Michael Bay-helmed piece of garbage; predictable in every conceivable way; and a convoluted storyline that needs three seasons on a streaming service to till in the backstory so that we might care about what’s going on.

In brief, we find our heroine Kora/Arthelais (Sofia Boutella, “Star Trek Beyond”) and her team of high-powered misfits basking in the relief that they have defeated and killed their archnemesis, Admiral Noble (Skrein). The victory means an assault on the moon Veldt has been prevented, which will allow its simple farming communities to live in peace and happiness. But wait, Admiral Noble is a tough cookie, and he is raised from the dead to resume his pursuit of Kora, who has been falsely blamed as the murderer of the royal family that governs most of space, which is outlandish in and of itself.

Admiral Noble, played again with entertaining villainy by Skrein who has made a career out of being a bad guy people like to hate, leads an Imperium fleet to Veldt where the farmers have harvested their grain before being trained for combat in just a few days by former Imperium admiral, Titus (Djimon Hounsou). They are also given a motivational speech that pales in comparison to more notable ones like Mel Gibson in “Braveheart” or Walter Matthau in “The Bad News Bears.” It all leads to a rather silly, over-the-top battle sequence that provides nothing that has not been seen a million times already in a million other movies.

Boutella has shined in other roles and has a knack for playing genuine heroine, but her talents are wasted with a script so bad that it reminds me of David Bowie’s song “Rebel, Rebel.” The only difference is that it’s not a face that’s a mess but an entire movie.

Overall, whatever you choose to do with your life is your business but please don’t waste a minute of it on this forgettable film.

“Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver” receives ★ out of five.

In 1999 I was the promotions director of the largest independent theatre chain in Kansas City.  It was in this position that I first met Chris Jackson.  Jackson had an idea for a local event and I was more then happy to lend a hand.  Later that year, at the Overland Park International Trade Center in Overland Park, Kansas, Planet Comicon Kansas City was born.  Twenty-five years later, the show continues to constantly grow, evolve and amaze!

Fun for Wookies of all ages! (photo credit: Dan Lybarger)

What makes PCKC so unique is that every year there is something new added to the event to make it special.  This year it was a large game area where fans could line up to play an assortment of classic and newer video games. 

Jon Bernthal (photo credit Dan Lybarger)

Another staple of the show is that they keep their celebrity guest list fresh, mixing in newer talents, including The Punisher himself, Jon Bernthal and the MCU’s Paul Bettany, with well-loved celebrities from the past, including this year the amazing Henry Winkler.  I first met Mr. Winkler fourteen years ago and he was actually the very first celebrity interview posted on this site.  He was kind and gracious then and, by all accounts of the fans I spoke to this year, he hasn’t changed a bit!

Paul Bettany (photo credit: Dan Lybarger)

I can’t recall how many fans attended the show in 1999, but I can tell you the turnout was nothing compared to the nearly 50,000 that have attended the show, now held at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Missouri, in recent years. 

COSPLAY is a staple at PCKC. “Death Becomes Her” (photo credit: Dan Lybarger_

For those of you marking your calendars, next year’s PCKC is scheduled for March 21-23, 2025.  If the past quarter century is any indication, the next twenty-five years are going to be incredible!

Not all casinos are built alike. Online VIP casinos gear their appeal towards high-rollers. To do that, which ultimately is a lucrative thing for the operator, they offer bigger and better perks than regular players get.

But what has been the drive behind the launch and ultimately, the rise of VIP casinos? What do they give that keeps players coming back time and again for further action? What are, for instance, BSTcasinos VIP offers like? Also, are VIP casinos out of touch with the everyday average player, or is there something there for everyone?

What are VIP Casinos?

VIP casinos offer high-level perks and benefits to players based on the amount of money that they place. This is more geared towards the big spenders among casino players and generally works on an invitation-only basis.

If a casino sees a player who is constantly playing a high turnover of stakes, then they may reach out to them with an invitation. It’s also possible for players to contact a customer support team and ask about becoming a member of a VIP program if they think they are playing at a high enough level.

The importance of VIP players for a casino is high. These are players that put a lot of money into operations and boost the casino returns. People playing high-roller stakes are liable to win more when they do hit success, but casinos are not fixed to make high-rollers win — so high-rollers lose just as often as everyone else who puts money into the casino’s pocket.

Why Did They Kick Off?

A competitive market typically drives innovation. This was the case with the swathe of online casinos that initially hit the market and continue to do so. While many are mostly targeted to the everyday casual bettor, some went towards a bigger market by trying to appeal to high-rollers.

This opened the door for many others to follow suit and now VIP online casinos are commonplace.

What Bonuses are Available at VIP Casinos?

Bonus offers are commonplace at online casinos, regardless of your level of play. From welcome offers to reload bonuses and cash-back specials, casino promotions are easy to come across.

But the difference with VIP bonuses, as such gambling specialists as https://bstcasinos.com/author/jack-hamilton/ would say, is that the rewards are bigger and better than what most players will pick up. What is on offer will vary from one VIP casino to another, but there are some major common perks like:

●Bigger bonus values

●Exclusive gifts and invitations

●Personal, dedicated support

●Account managers

●Higher comp rewards

VIP players get better bonus terms on promotions. It could be lower wagering requirements for a specific promotion or a higher value reward than what the standard version is. Exclusive VIP-only promotions are likely to exist as well.

A common perk of holding the VIP status is getting access to winnings quickly. Faster cashouts are a big thing, with the potential of having a withdrawal request completed the same day, even within a few hours.

Other features of VIP status include a decided level of customer support, and even a personal account manager. VIPs receive opportunities to claim special gifts like invitations to exclusive gaming spaces and concerts, and higher comp levels will also be in play.

VIP Tiers Provide Sustainability

Another reason why VIP programs have become so popular is because they work on a tiered system. When players see that they can get higher rewards for climbing a VIP ladder, then there is a natural incentive there, as long as it is within budget.

Once on a rung of the ladder, it’s not something that a player ideally wants to lose, as their level of perks will decrease. People don’t like losing. So this is a powerful marketing tool that casinos use to keep VIPs happy and to ensure that they stick around.

Levels such as gold, diamond, and Platinum are commonly seen. The higher the tier, the higher the comp points, bonus rewards and levels of personalised service that can be achieved.

Rewards Clubs

The average everyday casual pointer is not totally out of the loop. While the VIP programs at online casinos may be out of reach for many, there are Rewards clubs which provide a similar sort of experience, just without the high-level returns.

Rewards clubs can see weekly bonuses credited for spins, or a better percentage of reload bonus. These are smaller rewards than will ever be returned by a VIP program, but it’s all subjective to the level that is being played at.

The newly released, Berry Gordy’s The Last Dragon, which is an 80’s genre mash-up favorite of mine. I can’t tell you how many times I watched Michael Schultz’ Motown flavored martial arts movie growing up. However, I will tell you that very few films from that time period stuck with me like this one. Was it the action? The music? The awesome over-the-top villain Sho’nuff portrayed by Julius Carry? The sweet scenes between Taimak and Vanity?  I would say it was all-of-the above. The Last Dragon had everything I wanted in a movie and nearly four decades later, it still rocks.

Leroy Green (Taimak) dreams of becoming a great martial artist. He has almost reached the final level of his training. However, Leroy’s master explains to him that the final level, knows as “The Last Dragon” must be found on his own. If Leroy can complete the final level, he will be able to harness the mystical energy that would allow him to physically glow. His master sends Leroy on a spiritual journey through the streets of New York to locate Master Sum Dum Goy, who might be able to teach him how to unlock the great power of “The Glow’.

Of course, Leroy’s journey is not an easy one. Sho’nuff (The Shogun of Harlem) sees Leroy as the only person standing in his way of being the true master. Each time Sho’nuff and his gang challenges Leroy, he refuses to fight. Leroy’s family even pays the price when Sho’nuff demolishes his parent’s pizza shop. Leroy’s journey becomes even more complicated when he rescues music video show host Laura Charles (Vanity), who is being abducted by goons hired by the sleezy video-arcade mogul Eddie Arkadian (Christopher Murney). He wants Laura to play his girlfriend’s music video on her show and he won’t take no for an answer. Aside from searching for Master Sum Dum Goy, Leroy must protect Laura from Arkadian, find a way to deal with Sho’nuff and reach the final level of his training. Leroy also didn’t expect to start falling in love either.

The Last Dragon is silly and there is no denying it, but it’s also so much fun with a great soundtrack. I mean, MOTOWN founder Berry Gordy produced it, so you know the music is gonna be great. The chemistry between Taimak and Vanity really works well here. This is definitely a love-letter to classic martial arts films and even though it is also a comedy, it truly respects the art form and films that inspired it.

The new 4K transfer does not disappoint. It was scanned from the original camera negative and presented with Dolby Vision. The streets of Harlem look incredibly detailed, especially during the daytime shots. Eddie’s office is filled with neon colors that absolutely pop, as-well-as the set of Laura’s video show. Don’t even get me started on how awesome the red and yellow glows look during Leroy’s final fight with Sho’nuff. As for the audio, we get an all-new Dolby Atmos track which is taken full advantage of, especially during the numerous fight sequences. As mentioned before, The Last Dragon has a stellar 80’s soundtrack and the new audio track puts a shine on that.  If you are a fan, I highly recommend picking up this release, which also comes packed in a great looking steelbook. Three out of five stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️

Starring: AnnaLynne McCord, Dean Cain and Natasha Henstridge
Directed by: Tommy Stovall
Rated: NR
Running Time: 93 minutes
Stonecutter Media

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 Stars

If you Google “Condition of Return,” you’ll get the following synopsis: “A churchgoing woman makes a heinous deal with the Devil in order to save her soul.” Honestly, that’s all I needed to watch this film in the hopes of seeing a Satanic horror film. What I got was an unintentional comedy.

The movie opens with Eve (AnnaLynne McCord) walking into a Catholic church during mass and opening fire with an assault rifle, all the while tears well in her eyes as she watches the various attendees scatter in terror. We cut to much later, where Eve is shackled and Dr. Donald Thomas (Dean Cain) has been flown in to interview Eve. His goal, according to the police chief, is to declare that she is sane. That’s so that the state can cross that red tape checkmark off its list and pump Eve full of various drugs until she dies. With a recorder and notepad in hand, Dr. Thomas sits down for the silliest “be careful or you’re going to hell” movie of the 21st century.

Is that previous comment praise for “Condition of Return?” No. But that’s only because I feel like this movie was made in an earnest effort. I say that because throughout I kept checking if maybe I went in with the wrong expectations. After the first few chuckles, I checked the press email I got about the film. Sure enough, it’s listed as a “Faustian drama.” About halfway through, I checked IMDb which listed it as a “mystery.” By the end I had fully succumbed to my MST3K sensibilities and began laughing at the absurdity of it all.

If I had to describe “Condition of Return,” it’s a film with SyFy Creature Feature production values and a religious script that would make Kevin Sorbo drool at the sheer flawed morality of it. Eve’s tale to Dr. Thomas begins with her meeting a random guy at the bar, only to get knocked up, miscarry and marry the loser. Right off the bat, none of it feels real or genuine. Eve also drops the fact that she’s Catholic. A lot. So as her backstory progresses, she tells Dr. Thomas an increasingly bizarre story of her failing marriage which, no joke, leads to an FBI bust, time in prison, and finally searching “how to summon the devil” online where she lands on a website called Blood Knife. I felt like every unrealistic and stupid progression in Eve’s backstory was like a bad joke being delivered in just the right way to elicit an uncomfortable laugh.

It’s weird when you give a film a middling review when you know that some people will watch this and turn it off in the first 15 minutes, whether it’s the bad special effects, the stagnant dialogue or the go nowhere plot. Others though, like me, will relish in the sheer stupidity of it and will find themselves gleefully waiting to see what happens next, in pure morbid fashion. The old cliché phrase of “It’s so bad, it’s good,” applies to all 93 minutes of “Condition of Return.”

Starring: Simon Pegg, Minnie Driver and Christopher Lloyd
Directed by: Adam Sigal
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 96 minutes
Saban Films

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 Stars

At 2021’s San Diego Comic Con, I attended a panel for “Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose.” I had an actual interest in the panel after having recently listened to Last Podcast on the Left doing an episode on the subject. The film is based on a peculiar incident from 1930s Britain about, well, a talking mongoose. While that seems straightforward, the movie isn’t. Honestly, it’s odd attending a panel where everyone has a difficult time articulating what the film is about. It’s even odder watching the film.

While listed as a comedy, I didn’t laugh once during the film, but I’m not sure the film was written and filmed as a comedy. Sure, you have Simon Pegg as Dr. Fodor, who begins the movie explaining a belief in the paranormal as someone who sees something that no one else can see. In fact, most scenes with Dr. Fodor seem to be moments written for dry chuckles. That’s because he’s a natural skeptic whose life has been debunking every psychic phenomenon, every bump in the night and every scare tactic he can get his hands on. It’s beginning to wear him thin as he glides through life one hoax and alcoholic beverage at a time. That’s when a fellow skeptic and professor, played by the delightful Christopher Lloyd, tells him about Gef, the talking mongoose. With his assistant Anne, played by Minnie Driver, in tow, Dr. Fodor is off to the Isle of Man to unravel a mystery that will never be solved.

I had the knowledge going into this film that Gef remains a mystery. Is it the work of bored playful humans? Was Gef an actual talking creature lost to time? Was Gef the culmination of poltergeist activity? There are way more theories than answers and honestly, the film mimics that true to life story. That could genuinely frustrate anyone looking for an engaging story, much less a comedic one. Since the film isn’t necessarily going to give you answers or a laugh, why can’t I flat out not recommend it?

The film is peculiar in that I was never bored. While the characters talk in hushes and whispers while silently thinking about the day’s event (usually over a drink or two…or three), it seems like someone is screaming something at the top of their lungs, just below the surface. Annie is the only one of the main cast that’s genuinely open minded to the possibility of Gef’s existence, at least, outside of the peculiar townsfolk and family side characters that have allegedly heard Gef. It’s almost like Annie, after years of watching Dr. Fodor unmasking mysteries, is beginning to tire of the dog and pony show. Or maybe she’s warming up to the idea of Gef, and life, being a giant question mark, while Dr. Fodor can’t possibly fathom a question without an answer.

So maybe the film is more than a look at this absurd true-life story, but instead an encapsulation of how we shouldn’t let small things bog us down in life. Especially since Dr. Fodor, who has obvious chemistry with Anne, never seems to act on those sparks. Instead he seems miserably content with being single and skeptical of everyone and everything, as long as he has a stiff drink in his hand. But in a way, that’s why I can’t recommend it. Maybe I’m giving too much credit to a poorly written and directed film that wanders aimlessly for 90ish minutes. Maybe that screaming I sensed underneath the surface was the cast demanding any form of direction. Just like Gef, this film is a tonal mystery.

• THE BAKER
• Starring:  Ron Perlman, Emma Ho and Harvey Keitel
• Directed by:  Jonathan Sobol
• Rated:  R
• Running time:  1 hr 44 mins
• Darius Films

While sitting in his car in a parking garage a man witnesses a brutal fight between a group of men that ends with everyone dead.  As he begins to call 911 he sees a large canvas bag.  He grabs the bag and runs.  Big mistake.

A film that shares a lot of movie DNa with “The History of Violence” and “Nobody,” “The Baker” tells the story of a man who is forced to return to a part of his life he thought he had left behind in order to protect his family.  Here the man (Lan always excellent Perelman) is a simple baker, quietly making rolls in his kitchen when his son unexpectedly drops by.  Also unexpected?  A granddaughter he never knew existed.  The son asks his father to watch the girl for a short while as he takes care of some business.  Reluctant to do so, but understanding the bond of family, the man agrees.  What’s the girl’s name, he asks?  Delphi.

Packed with action and bolstered by the performances of the cast, “The Baker” rises above the standard “anything for my family” tropes by exploring both the amotional baggage of the Baker and Delphi (Ho).  We learn that the girl hasn’t spoken since the passing of her mother, silently chronicling all she sees with a small camera.  Even without words, the bond between grandfather and granddaughter grow.

I have been a fan of Ron Perelman’s since “Quest for Fire” and he has turned in some fine performances in film as diverse as “The Name of the Rose” and the “Hellboy” series.  As a young boy my son loved watching the television series “Beauty and the Beast,” even though he thought it was called “Beauty and the Priest.”  I once metl Perelman in New York and he signed a photo to my son, writing “the Priest” below his signature after I told him my son’s perception of the title.

Also standing out on screen, young Ms. Ho, who conveys more with her eyes then most actors can with an entire monologue.  And it’s always fun to see Harvey Keitel on screen, here chewing scenery as the bad guy behind the film’s opening brutality.

As summer winds down, and you are overwhelmed by all of the “Barbieheimer” social media posts, I recommend taking the time to seek out “The Baker.”  It “rises” to the occasion.

“The Baker” receives three and a half our of five stars.

• THE FLASH
• Starring: Ezra Miller and Sasha Calle
• Directed by: Andy Muschietti
• Rating: PG-13
• Running Time: 2 hrs 24 mins
• Warner Bros.

I find it tragic that the DC Extended Universe is coming to a halt thanks to James Gunn’s takeover and future reboot. In comparison to Marvel Studios, the DCEU’s releases have admittedly been uneven – who can forget “Wonder Woman” but who wants to remember “Birds of Prey”? Yet, the DCEU brand was often darker than the Marvel slate, which gave its own uniqueness. While “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” is set for launch in December, it will have a hard time not being anti-climatic after following the absolute thrill ride that is “The Flash.” Overflowing with surprises (this review will be spoiler free), “The Flash” is one of the best DCEU movies ever made with a terrific, dual performance by Ezra Miller and great supporting performances by Sasha Calle as Supergirl and Michael Keaton as Batman.

After helping Bruce Wayne/Batman (Ben Affleck) and Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) stop a robbery in Gotham City, Barry Allen/The Flash (Ezra Miller) revisits his childhood home where his beloved mother was murdered. Still grieving her loss and dealing with anger of his father being wrongly imprisoned, Barry accidentally travels back in time using the speed force. He tells Bruce who warns him of the dangers of messing with the past. Of course, Barry ignores it.

While attempting to fix his family’s tragedy, Barry is attacked by an unknown assailant and is knocked back to the year 2013 where he encounters an alternate version of himself. When General Zod (Michael Shannon) arrives, the two Barrys try to assemble the Justice League, but it proves futile with one exception. It is at Wayne Manor they find a much older, disheveled Bruce Wayne (Michael Keaton).

Our Barry and Bruce learn the Russians are holding who Barry thinks is Superman but turns out to be his cousin, Kara Zor-El/Supergirl (Sasha Calle, TV’s “The Young and the Restless”). Their plan is to free her and find a way to stop General Zod, but time and fate have certain rules as our Barry learns.

Directed by Andy Muschietti (2017’s “It”), “The Flash” is a thrilling experience full of surprises from start to finish. Some of the special effects may not look so special to some, but that’s more a matter of personal taste to a degree. The storyline has a good deal of emotional depth when it comes to Barry’s history and complexities, which are fleshed out with skill by Miller. It is rare for someone to pull off a good performance at playing a double of themselves and Miller succeeds with flying colors. The most enjoyable aspect, and the one that received the most vocal response from the audience yours truly saw it with, is the appearance of Keaton who has a substantial role in the story. It is a joy to say the least to see him on the silver screen once more as the caped crusader.

Is there such a thing as superhero fatigue? Perhaps. I have believed since the original “Blade” that comic movies would become the new Western, a once overly prolific genre. What it boils down to is the writing and an ability to maintain a high creative level that will keep the movie-going public’s interest. “The Flash” may be a victim of that fatigue, which would be disappointing as it is a truly fun summer flick in every sense.

“The Flash” receives three-and-a-half stars out of five.

• JAZZ FEST:  A NEW ORLEANS STORY
• Starring:  Quint Davis, Jimmy Buffet, Verdine White
• Directed by:  Frank Marshall and Ryan Suffern
• Rated:  PG 13
• Running time:  1 hr 35 mins
• Sony Pictures Classic

• AMSTERDAM
• Starring:  Christian Bale, Margot Robbie and John David Washington
• Directed by:  David O. Russell
• Rated:  R
• Running time:  2 hrs 14 mins
• 20^th Century Studios

• WEIRD: THE AL YANKOVIC STORY
• Starring:  Daniel Radcliffe and Lin-Manuel Miranda
• Directed by: Eric Appel
• Rated:  TV 14
• Running time:  1 hr 48 mins
• Roku

I often hear people talk about the music of their generation.  My dad grew up listening to Frank Sinatra.  My mom, Elvis.  I grew up in the time of the Beatles.  But there is another musician that influenced my life profoundly,  His name is Al Yankovic.

How do you make a film about a man whose stated life ambition is to write funny lyrics to existing songs?  It’s actually quite easy.  Picking various points of the accordion master’s life, it seems that

Al (a very good Daniel Radcliffe) has a talent that must be shared with the world.  Like my friends and I, Al was a fan of late-night radio host Dr. Demento (an unrecognizable Rainn Wilson) and sends him a tape of some of his songs.  Much to his surprise, the Doctor plays his stuff on the air, which leads to Al thinking this could really be the start of something big.

Of course, not everyone thinks Al is a musical genius.  Only after he is challenged by legendary DJ Wolfman Jack (Jack Black) to create, on the spot, a parody of Queen’s “Another One Bites the Dust” that he is able to quiet the naysayers.   Think Eminem at the end of “8 Mile” and you have a good idea of how things go.

The film plays fast and loose with facts, but fans of Al wouldn’t want it any other way.  If you’re a fan of “the Weird one,” then, by all means, give this one a look.

“WEIRD’ receives three and a half stars out of five.