Desert Warrior

War films are about as common in Hollywood as crime dramas, and just about every war has been addressed, i.e. WWI, WWII, Vietnam, Korean, Civil, Revolutionary, Middle East certainly. But even if a film is not directly based on an actual war, we have "Desert Warrior to ponder over. 

Set in seventh-century Arabia, Princess Hind (Aiysha Hart) defies her fate, refusing to become a concubine to the ruthless Emperor Kisra II (Ben Kingsley). Fleeing into the desert with her father, she is hunted by a merciless army and forced to trust a legendary bandit (Anthony Mackie) with secrets of his own. Rising from fugitive to fearless warrior, Hind unites warring tribes for a final stand--the Battle of Dhi Qar, a clash that will change history. 

Others to round out the cast are Sharlto Copley as Jalabzeen, Sami Bouajila as Hani, Ghassan Massoud as Al-Numan, Lamis Ammar as Medicine Woman, Ramsey Faragallah as Ibn QaBisah, Younes Bouab as Aasif, Said Boumazoughe as Samir, Geza Rohrig as Al Hamerz, Alain Saadeh as Yazid and Omar Al-Atawi as Shepherd Boy.

This was directed with such delineation and dissection of characters by Rupert Wyatt ("Subterrain" '01, "The Escapist" '08, "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" '11, "The Gambler" '14, "Captive State" '19) plus TV and shorts. Considering all the diverse characters, this filmmaker was able to establish, through his actors, a definite distinction between one another. It was captivating, enough that I'm encouraged to see how his "Boxman" is treated which now is in pre-production. It was written interestingly by David Self, Rupert Wyatt and Erica Beeney. Both Wyatt and Beeney have collaborated in other films, but clearly felt they needed someone that obtained a bit more experience, so enters Self, who certainly has the lion's share of feature film experience. The premise was definitely an interesting one, and with the exception of a couple of places of disjointedness and that it was a bit long-in-the-tooth, it was entertaining and for sure a swashbuckler. It probably would've faired better with only two writers--this is a common mistake with other films, where there's just too many hands in the pot. But even with these aspects, it was still a film worthy of viewing, if for no other reason than for its sweeping cinematography by Guillermo Garza. 

If you like war films or even films that deal with conflicts due to property or religious, etc, this will fit the bill. The photography, costumes, acting, especially by Mackie, Hart and Copley were all stunning and definitely kept the audience's attention. 

Out of 4 Stars: 3                                        Rated: R                                   127mins.

The Devil Wears Prada 2

When "The Devil Wears Prada" was released in 2006, because of its amazing profit, it is surprising that it took 20 years to produce a sequel. 20 years! It is difficult to believe it's been that long with the existing cast still in tow. Certainly this is a sequel, which usually aren't as effective, but the director and writer, who filmed its predecessor, produced a worthy film. 

"The Devil Wears Prada 2" reunites Mirada Priestly (Meryl Streep), and Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) as they navigate the changing media landscape, with Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt) and Nigel (Stanley Tucci) also returning, alongside new cast members like Stuart (Kenneth Branagh), Lucy Lieu and Benji Barnes (Justin Theroux). This story centers on Miranda facing industry flux and a forced reunion with a more mature Andy, who is now a major player, while confronting Emily, who is a powerful executive at the major brand, Dior. This explores themes of modern journalism and the evolution of the fashion world.

Others to round out the cast are Simone Ashley as Amari, Tracie Thoms as Lily, Caleb Hearon as Johnny, Patrick Brammall as Peter, B.J. Novak, Helen J. Shen as Jin Chao and Lady Gaga as herself. 

This was directed with consistency and wit by David Frankel ("Miami Rhapsody" '95, "The Pennsylvania Miners' Story" (TV movie) '02, "The Devil Wears Prada" '06, "Marley & Me" '08, "The Big Year" '11, "Hope Springs" '12, "One Chance" '13, "The King of 7B" (TV movie) ''15, "Collateral Beauty" '16, "Jerry & Marge Go Large" '22) plus TV, shorts, videos and a music video. Considering this filmmaker directed the original, this came across very similarly, which helped as far as getting reacquainted with the characters. His staging, pacing and cohesiveness, like the original was spot on which made it easy to follow along. Like it predecessor, this was also written by Aline Brosh McKenna ("Three to Tango" '99, "Laws of Attraction" '04, "Drive/II" (TV movie) '06, "The Devil Wears Prada" '06, "27 Dresses" '08, "MorningGlory" '10, "I Don't Know How She Does It" '11, "We Bought a Zoo" '11, "Annie" '14, "Cruella" (story) '21,"Your Place or Mine" '23) plus TV, based on characters created by Lauren Weisberger. This film became a bit frustrating for the reason that it was very similar to its predecessor--this can be a plus or minus depending on how the script is treated. So, as I'm waiting for a 'different' film to come out of this story, the script then turns and slowly becomes the film they and we were hoping for, and this made the film much better. Miranda wasn't as intense as in the original, but then they got to know one another more in the 20 years. I remember that when I went to see the original back in 2006, my sister, who read the book the film was based on mentioned  that the character of Miranda Priestly was actually more 'evil' that in the original film. I was amazed considering the intensity that Streep brought to that role. And, of course, the production values i.e. costumes, photography, production design, were seamless and truly enhanced the production. 

It was certainly nice to see the original cast--Streep, Hathaway, Blunt and Tucci back again for another uproarious banter back and forth. Even the new characters including Branagh, Theroux, Lui and Ashley were effective and supportive. Certainly, if you liked the original, "The Devil Wears Prada", you'll love this. It shows how many changes in 20 years can happen culturally and professionally. 

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                         Rated: PG-13                                    119mins.

Animal Farm

When George Orwell wrote the novel "Animal Farm" back during the time of November 1943 and February 1944, who knew we, as a country would be even thoughtful about the possibly of communism in this country? He was clearly a visionary and he was warning us, because there are many people today who are concerned about this country going that route. This animated "Animal Farm" addresses that potentiality by Angel Studios which is quite timely. 

From visionary director Andy Serkis, and featuring the voices of Seth Rogen, Gaten Matarazzo, Glenn Close, and Woody Harrelson, comes a satirical allegory of revolution and power. Animal Farm traces how a movement for equality is systematically corrupted. As the pigs, including Napoleon (Seth Rogen), Lucky (Gaten Matarazzo), Puff (Iman Vellani), Squealer (Kieran Culkin), and others consolidate control, truth is erased, dissent is crushed, and the farm descends into a ruthless dictatorship--fulfilling Orwell's warning about the dangers of communism. Through Lucky, Boxer, a horse (Woody Harrelson) and others, the power lust of Napoleon  and human, Freida Pilkington (Glenn Close) is put through the test. 

Others to round out the cast are Jim Parsons as Carl, Steve Buscemi as Mr. Whymper, Kathleen Turner as Benjamin, Laverne Fox as Snowball, and Andy Serkis as Mr, Jones, the farmer. 

This was directed with the ability to increase the intensity in a subtle, but continuous way by Andy Serkis ("Breathe" '17, "The Ruins of Empires" (TV movie) '18, "Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle" '18, "Venom: Let There Be Carnage" '21) plus a video game.  Most of this fimmaker's experience has been as an actor, so going from in front of the camera to behind it was an easier place considering his knowledge of what to expect from his actors, him being one. His resume isn't extensive, however what he's done has been quality. If fact, if you like his style, his "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum" is in post production for a 2027 release. His staging and pacing is effective and the characters interacted well. It was interestingly penned by Nicholas Stoller ("Fun with Dick and Jane" '05, "Yes Man" '08, "Get Him to the Greek" '10, "Gulliver's Travels" '10, "The Muppets" '11, "The Five-Year Engagement" '12, "Zoolander 2" '16, "Storks" '16, "Night School" '18, "You're Cordially Invited" '25) plus other films, a TV movie, TV, and a video, based on the novel, "Animal Farm" by George Orwell. Obviously this writer is seasoned. The end of this is a bit different than the novel it's based on, probably because of it being geared toward family, and being animated. There were a couple of places of disjointedness and was a bit choppy in some places, but the message and execution of it was strong and much needed in this society. The animation was created by Cinesite was effective and fit the film well. 

'If you've never read Orwell's novel, read it. Being written in the mid '40s, this is basically prophetic. It's like looking at the newspaper today. Interesting it was Orwell who also wrote 'the book "1984" about 'big brother' with the corporate world and huge government back between 1946 and 1948, that was published in June of 1949. This man was a visionary. They probably laughed at him back then, but whose laughing now? 

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                        Rated: PG                                         95mins.

Fuze

We've seen films that center around the threat of a bomb in a city, and also have seen films about war, specifically in around the Middle East, but we haven't seen the combination of the two, which is where "Fuze" was born. This carries a whole new meaning of the term, 'a nail-biter'.

Set in contemporary London, "Fuze" unfolds after an unexpected World War II bomb is unearthed at a busy construction site, forcing a massive citywide evacuation headed up by Major Will Tranker (Aaron Taylor Johnson). Amid the escalating tension and chaos, a daring criminal operation headed up by X (Sam Worthington) and Karalis (Theo James) is set in motion--one that uses the evacuation as cover for a meticulously planned heist. As authorities race against time to contain the crisis, alliances blur and moral boundaries are crossed, the film deftly propels audiences through a series of calculated twists delivering a wildly entertaining ride. 

Others to round out the cast are Elham Ehsas as Rahim, Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Zusana, Saffron Hocking as Dootsie, Laurie Duncan as Wardy, Hannah Collins as PC Marks, Matt Beverage as PC Turner, Shaun Mason as Y and Nabil Elouahabi as Z. 

This was directed with tenacity, grit and incredible intensity by David Mackenzie ("The Last Great Wilderness" '02, "Young Adam" '03, "Asylum" '05, "Hallam Foe" '07, "Spread" '09, "Perfect Sense" '11, "Tonight You're Mine" '11, "Starred Up" '13, "Hell or High Water" '16, "Outlaw King" '18, "Relay" '24) plus TV and shorts. This became a great character study between Will, Karalis and X which is talented directing. These characters obtained their own distinct personalities and although these actors are talented, this was fine directing. Look at this filmmaker's resume and you'll see that Mackenzie was very much in his zone. It was cleverly written by Ben Hopkins ("Simon Magus" '99, "Janice Beard" '99, "The Nine Lives of Tomas Katz" 2000, "The Market: A Tale of Trade" '08, "Napoli: City of the Damned" (TV movie) '09, "Lost in Karastan" '14, "Hasret: Sehnsucht" '15, "Marionette" '19, "In Search of Monsters" '21, "Inside" '23, "Limonov: The Ballad of Eddie" '24, "The Narrative" (co-writer) '26). The way this writer was able to intertwine the story of the mass evacuation and of the bank heist and still was able to tie them together was amazing. However, was this flawless? No, since there were a couple of places that seemed a bit disjointed, it did have a tendency to meander a little. But otherwise, this story kept its audience on the edge of there seats and the twists and turns will keep anyone riveted. 

The directing and writing were implemented well, but the combination of the three stars, James, Worthington and Taylor-Johnson kept you glued to the screen. The raw intensity between them and the supporting cast was real, convincing and compelling.

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                     Rated: R                                             97mins.

Michael

As time has gone on through the decades, we've seen a plethora of different biopics about singers in the limelight. We have biopics on singers, such as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Whitney Houston, Bob Marley, to mention a handful. So, now to add to that ever growing list is "Michael" about the 'king of pop' Michael Jackson.

"Michael" is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson's life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless  pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins. Through Michael's (Jaafar Jackson) upbringing in Gary, Indiana, by his dad, Joe Jackson (Colman Domingo) and his mom, Katherine (Nia Long), the starting of his career as the lead of the Jackson Five, to his breaking away from them to go solo with his new manager John Branca (Miles Teller), to his Pepsi commercial gone awry, he lead a rather tumultuous life all the while not really experiencing anything of a normal childhood or life in general. 

This was directed with incredible delineation and oreciseness by Antoine Fuqua ("The Replacement Killers" '98, "Bait" 2000, "Training Day" '01, "Tears of the Sun" '03, "Lightning in a Bottle" '04, "King Arthur" '04, "Shooter" '07, "Brooklyn's Finest" '09, "Olympus Has Fallen" '13, "The Equalizer" '14, "Southpaw" '15, "The Magnificent Seven" '16, "The Equalizer 2" '18, "What's My Name: Muhammed Ali" '19,"Infinite" '21, "The Guilty" '21, "Emancipation" '22,"The Equalizer 3" '23, "Troublemaker: The Story Behind the Mandela Tapes" '26) plus TV, TV movies, shorts, videos and a plethora of music videos. This filmmaker simply improves with each and every project he is attached to--his sequencing, staging, pacing, cohesiveness in his films are effortless and this film is no exception. His "Training Day" and "The Magnificent Seven" films are definitely a couple of his best. This film was dissected with amazing clarity and he was able to get his actors to dig deep in the way they conveyed their respective characters. It was equally well written by John Logan ("Bats" '99, "Any Given Sunday" '99, "Gladiator" 2000, "The Time Machine" '02, "Star Trek: Nemesis" '02, "Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas" '03, "The Last Samurai" '03, "The Aviator" '04, "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" '07, "Rango" '11, "Coriolanus" '11, "Hugo" '11, "Skyfall" '12, "Spectre"'15, "Genius" '16, "Alien: Covenant" '17, "They/Them" '22) plus TV, TV movies, shorts, videos and and a video game. As with Fuqua, this writer is a seasoned pro with work that is a list of artful projects. This was formatted as a flashback as has occurred in many films, especially biopics, but this clearly showed us how Michael became the individual he became through the different incidents in his life letting the audience in on his way of thinking. The only aspect of this film that was perplexing was that after Michael's London tour in 1988, the screen then shows three words which says, his story continues, which I certainly wasn't expecting, but was definitely purposed.So, there's more than likely a continuation. And the cinematography by Dion Beebe acs/asc ("Crush" '92, "Chicago" '02, "Collateral" '04, "Memoirs of a Geisha" '05, "Green Lantern" '11, "Gangster Squad" '13, "Into the Woods" '14, "13 Hours" '16, "Mary Poppins Returns" '18, "The Little Mermaid" '23) plus other films,TV, TV movies, shorts, videos and music videos) was absolutely stunning as are all his productions. He certainly brings out the color, the vividness and clarity in his films. 

Certainly if you love Michael Jackson's music, you'll be in that heaven. I'm not expressly a Jackson fan, however, with all objectivity, this film was amazing--acting, writing, directing, photography. Apparently Michael Jackson's nephew (Jaafar Jackson) played the part of Michael as an adult in this and considering this is his first film, he will go places. If you like that up close and personal feeling, this is presented in an IMAX format as well. 

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                       Rated: PG-13                                       127mins.

Normal

Films about small-town America can be fraught with deep secrets "Normal" being of no exception. Everybody knows everybody and all stick together, so what happened with this small town? Well, it certainly wasn't anything I could've thought of which makes it definitely more fresh and original. 

"Normal" is a neo-Western thriller that stars Bob Odenkirk as Ulysses Richardson, an unassuming substitute sheriff assigned to the quiet Midwestern town of Normal, Minnesota. Seeking a temporary escape from personal and professional turmoil, Ujysses instead finds himself drawn into a crisis when a botched bank robbery exposes a dangerous secret beneath the town's calm exterior. As tensions escalate (and boy, do they escalate), he is forced to confront his troubled past and the true nature of the community namely the mayor, Kibner (Henry Winkler), Deputy Blaine Anderson (Ryan Allen), Deputy Mike Nelson (Billy MacLellan) and others he has been tasked with protecting. 

Others to round out the cast are Lena Headey as Moira, Reena Jolly as Lori, Brendan Fletcher as Keith, Peter Shinkoda as Joe, Jess McLeod as Alex, David Lawrence as Dr. Walter Ville, John C. MacDonald as Kenny, Alex MacMillan as Kent, Dan De Jaeger as Ernie and Derek Barnes as James.

This was slickly directed with grit, intensity and humor by Ben Wheatley ("Down Terrace" '09, "Kill List" '11, "Sightseers" '12, "A Field in England" '13, "High-Rise" '15, "Free Fire" '16, "Happy New Year, Colin Burstead" '18, "Rebecca" '20, "In the Earth" '21, "Meg 2: The Trench" '23, "Bulk" '25) plus TV movies, TV, videos and a music video. This director's staging, pacing and sequencing was incredible in how this film kept its audience on the edge of their seats. Odenkirk's character as sheriff was so staid, but with an underlying intensity to him and this is simply effective directing. It was creatively well written by Derek Kolstad ("One in the Chamber" '12, "The Package" '12, "John Wick" '14, "John Wick: Chapter 2" '17, "John Wick 3--Parabellum" '19, "Nobody" '21, "Die Hart" '23, "John Wick: Chapter 4" '23, "Nobody 2" '25) plus TV, shorts, and videos, based on a story by Derek Kolstad and Bob Odenkirk. Considering that Kolstad wrote this film, it's no wonder why or how it could've been written in any other way but slickly and cohesive. The sequencing in script was spot on, and the cast worked so well off of each other.This definitely had a "Nobody"feel to it which is a plus, but then again, Kolstad wrote that film as well. The premise was unique, fresh with definite twists. Can't wait to his next project, and many more are coming. 

If you liked the 'Nobody' or 'John Wick' franchises, you'll love this. It simply has it all: action, high-adrenaline, explosiveness, passion, humor and redemption all rolled up in this tight, concise and slickly executed thriller. It does have a few more than a few cuss words, so not for the kids, but it is rollicking and thrilling. Enjoy! 

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                         Rated: R                                        92mins.

Beast

Through the decades we have experienced many boxing films, i.e. "Rocky", "Raging Bull", "The Fighter", "Southpaw", "Creed" and others, however "Beast" is one of the first MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) films that has come along. This film comes across as something that is similar to the format of a boxing film, but clearly is not. And with this, it's about redemption, revenge, soul-searching and fear, elements that typically boxing films deal with.

After years away from the cage, a once-feared MMA champion, Patton James (Daniel McPherson) is pulled back in for the fight of his life when his younger brother, Malon (Mojean Aria) is put in danger. Reuniting with the trainer who once made him a legend, Sammy (Russell Crowe), he commits to one final showdown against the reigning title holder--Xavier Grau (Bren Foster), a brutal fighter determined to dismantle the ex-champ's legacy in front of the world. Along with Sammy, he has his MMA fighter daughter, Rose (Amy Shark) to assist him in the training. Pushed to Patton's  breaking point, the contender's stakes are simple: win, or lose everything he's built. 

Others to round out the cast are Luke Hemsworth as Gabriel, Kelly Gale as Luciana, Patton's wife, George Burgess as Neal, Matt Nable as Barry, Nathan Phillips as Skipper, Saphira Moran as Nadine and Eliza Matengu as Toni. 

This was directed with grit and intensity by Tyler Atkins ("Ocean Boy" '22) plus a short. Even though this filmmaker doesn't have a plethora of experience, he was still able to convince his audience of the peril, the grittiness and pathos of this contender trying to balance his marriage, his family and career all the while having to fight for his life in that cage. This director's sequencing and staging was amazing. He will undoubtedly receive more work. It was penned well by writers David Frigerio ("Wreckage" '10, "The Signal" '14, "Crypto" '19, "Land of Bad" '24) plus a short and Russell Crowe ("Poker Face" '22), based on a story by David Frigerio. Before I viewed this film, I was expecting basically a modern day "Rocky", with the trainer coming back to retrain a contender, Rocky, however after seeing this, it was definitely different in its approach and format in what needed to transpire beyond the re-connection between the two. The script obtained a couple of small places of slowness, however all in all, the story, in a short while, did find its footing, and became a very captivating sports film. This was well cast, especially of that of Daniel McPherson as Patton. I've never heard of him--maybe he's more known in Australia--the locale of the film, but he gave a riveting performance. Between the photography and stunts, this carried the audience throughout. And I've never seen Luke Hemsworth, the older brother of Chris and Liam, in a role before, even though he is an actor in his home country of Australia. 

If you like action sports films, this will be a knockout (pun intended). It has action, fear, challenges, high-adrenaline and redemption all rolled up into a nice way to spend a couple of hours. It has an eclectic, but effective cast that will intrigue.

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                        Rated: R                                        115mins.