Song Sung Blue

For years Hollywood has presented biopics on numerous singers--just about a film a year, but now we are offered a docudrama on the singing team that fronted for headliner groups like Pearl Jam. So, this being not about the actual singer--Neil Diamond, but the singer who gave audiences a Neil Diamond experiences, to quote him. 

"Song Sung Blue" is a biographical musical drama centering round Mike and Claire Sardina (Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson) respectively, a real life couple who performed as a Neil Diamond tribute band called "Lightning and Thunder" in Milwaukee. The film follows their journey through love, marriage, and the highs and lows of their musical career, including a devastating car accident that Claire survived and Mike's tragic death in 2006. 

Others to round out the cast are Jim Belushi as Tom D'Amato, Fisher Stevens as Dr. Dave Watson, Michael Imperioli as Mark Shurilla, Ella Anderson as Rachel, King Princess as Angelina, Hudson Hensley as Dana, Mustafa Shakir as Sex Machine, John Bethwith as Eddie Vedder and Jayson Warner Smith as Earl.

This was directed with pathos and compassion by Craig Brewer ("The Poor & Hungry" 2000, "Hustle & Flow" '05, "Black Snake Moan" '06, "Footloose" '11, "Boomerang" (TV movie) '13, "Urban Cowboy" (TV movie) '16, "Dolemite Is My Name" '19, "Coming 2 America" '21) plus TV and a short. The passion and the unwillingness to compromise his show simply was unrelenting in the eyes of Mike 'Lightning' Sardina (Jackman), and, not only was this amazing acting, but fine directing as well that Brewer was able to extract out of him as well as Hudson's Claire and all others. It was also sequenced well by writer Craig Brewer ("The Poor & Hungry" 2000, "Pressure" '02, "Water's Edge" '03, "Hustle & Flow" '05, "Black Snake Moan" '06, "Footloose" '11, "The Legend of Tarzan" '16, "Urban Cowboy" (TV movie) '16, "Yellow River" (Hustle & Flow monologue) '20) plus a short, based on the 2008 documentary by Greg Kohs. Sequencing is everything when it came to delineating the script appropriately, and this script was cohesive, tight, concise and was culminated effortlessly. The chemistry between Jackman and Hudson was incredible whether the couple was going through hard times or good. For a film that ran for about two and a quarter hours, it moved right along and that's exemplary writing along with great acting. 

Certainly, if you are a Neil Diamond aficionado, this is the film for you, however the story was captivating as was the acting by Jackman, Hudson and even Jim Belushi. The songs will leave you wanting to hum and even though it leaves us bittersweetly, it still leaves one feeling up.

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                           Rated: PG-13                                        131mins.

Marty Supreme

As Hollywood spews out more biopics than ever before, we are offered yet another biopic by the name of Marty Mauser, a professional table tennis player, who as a professional, his life was and those around him were incredibly emotionally and mentally messed up, assuming this script has validity. But even if these people were problematic, the directing and acting was first rate.

Timothee Chalamet stars as Marty Mauser, a fictionalized version of real-life 1950s table tennis hustler Marty Reisman. This sports drama follows Mauser's chaotic pursuit of table tennis stardom in 1950s New York, hustling games to fund his dream while navigating a world that doesn't take the sport seriously. The film is known for its kinetic, high-energy style, similar to the director, Josh Safdie's other works

Others to round out the cast are Gwyneth Paltrow as Kay Stone, Odessa A'zion as Rachel Mizler, Kevin O'Leary as Milton Rockwell, Larry 'Ratso' Sloman as Murray Norkin, Tyler Okonma as Wally, Luke Manley as Dion Galanis, Fran Drescher as Rebecca Mauser, Emory Cohen as Ira Mizler and Koto Kawaguchi as Koto Endo.

This was brilliantly directed with grit and dramatic flair by Josh Safdie ("The Pleasure of Being Robbed" '08, "Daddy Longlegs" '09, "Buttons" '11, "Lenny Cooke" '13, "Heaven Knows What" '14, "Good Time" '17, "Uncut Gems" '19) plus TV, shorts and music videos. Even though Chalamet is an incredible talented actor, it still takes an amazing and calculating director to pull off this kind of performance. The audience was back and forth on whether they were for Marty or totally against him since he was so manipulative. And the way that Marty finally became desperate due to his own devises, and still people really didn't want to trust him because of his past--this is golden Safdie. It was effectively written by Josh Safdie ("The Pleasure of Being Robbed" '08, "Daddy Longlegs" '09, "Heaven Knows What" '14, "Good Time" '17, "Uncut Gems" '19) plus shorts and a music video, and Ronald Bronstein ("Frownland" '07, "Daddy Longlegs" '09, "Heaven Knows What" '14, "Good Time" '17, "Uncut Gems" '19) plus a short and music videos. While the direction was delineated with amazing clarity, the writing had a tendency to meander and became a bit choppy in certain areas. The sequencing also was a bit off, but after a while, the film started to come together and then the story was much more captivating. Even though this is a fictionalized version of what actually happened, assuming these characters were depicted accurately, it was incredibly difficult to have pity on most of the characters in this. 

If you're an aficionado of biopics, you'll like this, even though there were liberties taken. What made up for the choppy writing was the acting by Chalamet, the direction by Safdie and the cinematography by Darius Khondji afc/asc, which all will undoubtedly be nominated come Oscar time. 

Out of 4 Stars: 2.5                                        Rated: R                                            150mins.

Anaconda

When "Anaconda" was released in 1954, assuredly no one would ever assume it would be remade in 1997, which was a straight-on gripping drama. Now we have been offered  another installment also titled "Anaconda" which now has been transformed into a satirical comedy as a parody of the franchise.  

Four childhood friends, Doug McCallister (Jack Black), Ronald 'Griff' Griffin (Paul Rudd), Kenny Trent (Steve Zahn) and Claire Simons (Thandiwe Newton) are going through a midlife crisis, so they decide to remake their favorite horror movie from the 1990s in the Amazon Forest. So, between them and some others to help with the production including a snake handler Santiago Braga (Selton Mello) having his anaconda in place, the snake accidentally dies, so a new snake would have to be found. Ultimately when a real giant anaconda shows up, they get more than what they bargain for and their comically chaotic movie turns into a life-or-death situation. The movie that they're dying to remake might just kill them, literally. 

Others to round out the cast are Daniela Melchior as Ana Almeida, Ice Cube as himself, Ione Skye as Malie, Rui Ricardo Diaz as Joao, John Billingsley as Jerry, Sebastian Sero as Charlie, Diego Arnary as Paulo and Dan Silveira as Timo.

The film was satirically directed by Tom Gormican ("That Awkward Moment" '14, "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent" '22). Considering Gormican directed 'Unbearable Weight', it should be no surprise that he be the one to helm this film, since that film was a spoof on parodying Nicolas Cage as this film was parodying "Anaconda". Ice Cube played himself since he was one of those that starred in the 1997 version, so this added the satirical flair that added much more. It was cleverly written by Tom Gormican ("That Awkward Moment" '14, "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent" '22, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" '24) and Kevin Etten ("Canned" (TV movie) '09, "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent" '22, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" '24) plus TV, based on "Anaconda" written by Hans Bauer, Jim Cash and Jack Epps, Jr. If I haven't mentioned it before, I definitely have an appreciation of satire or parodies and this being that made it more entertaining, however it wasn't without flaws. For not being an overly long film, the beginning was a bit slow in getting started, but once it did 'find the film', it became the movie I was definitely looking for. If this film was written as another horror drama, I probably wouldn't have gone to see it, but the fact they presented it as a parody--a satire, I felt that would be the route to go, and it certainly helped. 

If you're an Anaconda fan, you will definitely like this rendition. A humorous approach, great cast, effective directing and seamless visuals made this film captivating and once the film found itself, kept its audience glued. All these aspects made for an overall entertaining movie to have fun with. Enjoy!

Out of 4 Stars: 3                                        Rated: PG-13                                       109mins.

David

The two seasons of the calendar year that offers the majority of animated films is that of summer and Christmas time. There are so many that if you can't find one to watch, you're clearly not looking. There's a new animated flick on the block, and that's in the form of "David". It's about the life of King David from the books of 1 and 2 Samuel of the bible--how he went from being a meager shepherd to King of Israel and all that happened in between. 

From the songs of his mother's heart to the whispers of a faithful God, young David's (Brandon Engman) journey begins in quiet devotion. When the giant Goliath (Kamran Nikhad) rises to terrorize a nation, this young shepherd's armed with only a sling, a few stones, and unshakable faith steps forward. Pursued by power and driven by purpose, this now adult David (Phil Wickham), the anointed king's journey tests the limits of loyalty, love, and courage--culminating in a battle not just for a crown, but for the soul of a nation. This shows us the remarkable humility and faith this man had and how he wouldn't compromise his faith at all.

Others to round out the cast are Asim Chaudhry as King Achish, Mark Jacobson as Jonathan, Adam Michael Gold as Saul, Brian Stivale as Samuel, Lauren Daigle as Rebecca, Katie Bernstein as Ahinoam and Will de Renzy-Martin as Vaizatha. 

This was directed with such conviction and compassion by Phil Cunningham ("Young David" TV) and Brent Dawes ("Jungle Beat: The Movie" '2020) plus TV and shorts. Even though these filmmakers don't have a tremendous list of work, what they have and the subject matter of their resumes certainly allows them to be able to easily carry out this task as directors. The production's fluidity was incredible when it came to the sequencing. It was wonderfully written by Brent Dawes ("Once Upon a Stable" (TV movie) '04, "The Lion of Judah" '11, "Jungle Beat: The Movie" '2020, "Jungle Beat 2: The Past" (additional writing) '25) plus TV, with additional writing by Kyle Portbury and Sam Wilson.  Again, without a plethora of experience, this was an amazing script and story line leading up to David's pinnacle as King of Israel. The screenplay was tight, cohesive and concise, and an admiral connection with what the scriptures would bring out. 

This is a film all must see--young and old alike for its historical backdrop, for its faith and for its love. If you miss this in the theater (and you shouldn't), then definitely see it on Netflix. It is an awesome film, and the animation by Sunrise Studios is phenomenal. 

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                          Rated: PG                                       111mins.

Avatar: Fire and Ash

When this franchise started with "Avatar" back in 2009, who knew it would become the blockbuster it turned out to be? Since then, we have seen "Avatar: The Way of Water" in 2022, and now we are offered "Avatar: Fire and Ash", which neither are as fresh and original as their predecessor, but certainly a worthy effort. 

Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) his wife Neytiri's (Zoe Saldana) family grapples with grief after Neteyam's (Jamie Flatters) death, encountering a new, aggressive Na'vi tribe, the Ash People, who are led by the fiery Varang (Oona Chaplin) as the conflict on Pandora escalates and a new moral focus emerges. As a team, will the Sully family along with the Na'vi tribe be able to combat the Sky People, as they have become to be known as, headed up by Colonel Quaritch (Stephen Lang), General Ardmore (Edie Falco) and Selfridge (Giovanni Ribisi) in a fight for the existence of the people of Pandora?

Others to round out the cast by Kate Winslet as Ronal, Cliff Curtis as Tonowari, CCH Pounder as Mo'at, Jemaine Clement as Dr. Garvin, David Thewlis as Peylak, Britain Dalton as Lo'ak, Jack Champion as Spider and Sigourney Weaver as Kiri.

This was directed by the king of big-budget films, James Cameron ("Piranha II: The Spawning" '82, "The Terminator" '84, "Aliens" '86, "The Abyss" '89, "Terminator: Judgment Day" '91, "True Lies" '94, "Titanic" '97, "Ghosts of the Abyss" '03 "Aliens of the Deep" '05, "Avatar" '09, "Avatar: The Way of Water" '22) plus TV, TV movies, shorts, music videos, videos and a TV short. As with his other 'Avatar' films, Cameron's direction is spot on with his actors clearly digging deep so as to find how their respective characters should interact with each other. He certainly knows his way around a large scale production and does so effortlessly. This film was written with conviction by James Cameron, Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, based on a story by James Cameron, Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, Josh Friedman and Shane Salerno, which is based on characters created by James Cameron. Certainly all these writers have been involved with large scale productions, and both Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver have teamed to write several films together, so this definitely helps in writing an effective screenplay. I still believe that the original "Avatar" 2009 was the best of the series predominantly for the fact that the lead characters kept appearing as their human roles and their avatar roles so it allowed us to realize that these characters weren't aliens, but they were humans, however in an avatar situation. In this installment, the human factor was implemented a number of times, however not in the lead characters. And, although the size of the production, it was written well, but was a bit slow in some areas and became a bit long-in-the-tooth. I must say the cinematography by Russell Carpenter asc, the visual effects predominantly designed by Weta FX and ILM (Industrial, Light & Magic) were all stunning and will certainly be nominated come Oscar time. 

If you enjoyed the other 'Avatar' films, this one will be calling your name. It's got plenty of action to keep you moving.And if you want more...not to worry, because "Avatar 4" is in post production and "Avatar 5" is in the middle of filming right now. And, if you like that up close and personal feeling, this is being presented in an IMAX and 3D format as well. 

Out of 4 Stars: 3                                     Rated: PG-13                                     197mins.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000): 25th Anniversary

The re-issuing of films have become quite popular which has been a profitable way for movie companies so they don't have to trudge through the riggers of making a remake or reboot. Usually the choices of films are ones that are popular and this film, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" is no exception. 

In this live-action adaptation of the beloved children's tale by Dr. Seuss, the reclusive green Grinch (Jim Carrey) decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Reluctantly joined by his hapless dog, Max, the Grinch comes down from his mountaintop home and sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday-related from the Whos. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when he encounters the endearing Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen).

Others to round out the cast are Jeffrey Tambor as May Who, the mayor of Whoville, Christine Baranski as Martha May Whovier, Bill Irwin as Lou Lou Who, Molly Shannon as Betty Lou Who, Clint Howard as Whobris, Rance Howard as Elderly Timekeeper, Rachel Winfree as Rose and Kelley as Max, the dog..

This was directed with whimsy and heart by Ron Howard ("Grand Theft Auto" '77, "Night Shift" '82, "Splash" '84, "Cocoon" '85, "Gung Ho" '86, "Willow" '88, "Parenthood" '89, "Backdraft" '91, "Far and Away" '92, "The Paper" '94, "Apollo 13" '95, "A Beautiful Mind" '01, "Cinderella Man" '05, "Frost/Nixon" '08, "The Dilemma" '11, "Rush" '13, "In the Heart of the Sea" '15, "Inferno" '16, "Pavarotti" '19, "Hillbilly Elegy" '20, "Eden" '24) plus other films, TV movies, shorts, videos and a music video. Ron Howard has become a staple of fine directing in Hollywood and has the resume to prove it. Each movie he films becomes so effortless to him and every film he does direct simply gets better with time. He was able to get Jim Carrey to bring the Grinch to life where that character seemed so real even though it's obviously a fictional character. It was effectively written by Jeffrey Price ("Trenchcoat" '83, "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?"'88, "Doc Hollywood" '91, "Wild Wild West"'99, "Last Holiday" '06, "Shrek the Third" '07) plus TV and Peter S. Seaman ("Trenchcoat" '83,"Who Framed Roger Rabbit?' '88, "Doc Hollywood" '91, "Wild Wild West" '99, "Last Holiday"'06, "Shrek the Third" '07) plus TV, based on the book by Dr. Seuss. This film went beyond the typical story of the Grinch stealing Christmas as the beloved story is about. I believe is was necessary to add to the story in order to lengthen the film since it was originally a short story, and going into what drove the Grinch to become bitter and hating Christmas as much as he did was compelling to have some insight into the character. There was a bit of a problem in combining the actual story and connecting that with the the Grinch's past in how he became the way he became, but all in all these writers did the best that any writer could've implemented, and since they are a writing team, they work well together. The visual effects predominantly designed by Digital Domain and Rhythm & Hues were stunning as was the costume design by Rita Ryack. 

Certainly if you're a fan of either director, Ron Howard or actor, Jim Carrey, this is the film for you. This is quintessential Carrey at his best. It was an exemplary attempt to delve into the story and give the audience a backstory to the Grinch. And bringing back this as a 25 anniversary re-release at Christmas time was genius. It is very difficult to believe this film is 25 years old!

Out of 4 Stars: 3                                             Rated: PG                                         103mins.

Ella McCay

With all the bid-budget films laced with a plethora of visual effects at this time of year, it's pleasantly surprising that we are offered "Ella McCay", a story about a dysfunctional family attempting to cope with each other and with others in their respective lives.

This is a comedy/drama about the complicated politics that arise when a young woman, Ella McCay (Emma Mackey), who, as Lieutenant Governor, ends up becoming the governor as the Governor, Bill Moore (Albert Brooks) receives a position in the president's cabinet. Her career clashes with the dysfunction within her chaotic family, namely her dad, Eddie (Woody Harrelson), her aunt Helen McCay (Jamie Lee Curtis) and even her younger brother, Casey McCay (Spike Fearn). It simply becomes a balancing act between career and family where her sanity becomes at question due to her consistent stress. 

Others to round out the cast are Jack Lowden as Ryan Newell, Kumail Nanjiani as head of security, Ayo Edebiri as Casey's girlfriend, Rebecca Hall as Claire McCay, Eddie's wife, Julie Kavner as Estelle and Sheetal Sheth as Audrey. 

This was directed with subtlety and humor by the incomparable James L. Brooks ("Terms of Endearment" '83, "Broadcast News" '87, "I'll Do Anything" '94, "Spanglish" '04, "How Do You Know" '10) plus TV. This is a multi-faceted filmmaker whereas he is a fine actor, writer and director, where he especially shines is behind the camera--his ability to direct is phenomenal. He comes across as effortless in his ability to have his actors to 'find' that character and showcase it. He hasn't directed a ton of projects, but what he has directed is amazing. It was executed well by writer James L. Brooks ("Starting Over" '79, "Terms of Endearment" '83, "Broadcast News" '87, "I'll Do Anything" '94, "As Good as it Gets" '97, "Spanglish" '04, "The Simpson's Movie" '07, "How Do You Know" '10) plus a plethora of TV, TV movies, shorts and a video. We've all seen films that center around the dysfunction of families--it's a rather common staple with comedies or dramedies, this being one, but this one, although was a captivating story, unfortunately had a tendency to jump back and forth as the story was going from the present to the past and back again. So with this, it started to become a bit confusing. Certainly Brooks is a talented writer--he has a wealth of work, both TV and films under his belt, but this simply needed a bit more polish. A bad day at the laptop? Not sure, but suffice it say, it got a little crazy. Was it a total wash? Certainly not, most of the story line carried well and the performances particularly by Jamie Lee Curtis and Albert Brooks and Julie Kavner were the bright spots. 

If you're a James L. Brooks fan, you'll like this film which definitely has his name written all over it. The direction, acting, music composed by Hans Zimmer and the cinematography by Robert Elswit, asc were incredible. 

Out of 4 Stars: 3                                        Rated: PG-13                                       115mins.