CROSS: SEASON ONE Starring: Aldis Hodge, Isaiah Mustafa, Juanita Jennings, Alona Tal, Samantha Walkes, Caleb Elijah, Melody Hurd, Jennifer Wigmore, Eloise Mumford, and Ryan Eggold Creator: Ben Watkins QUENTIN Most channels have an identity based on the series they air. For example, CBS is the “crime-of-the-week” procedural channel for Boomers. Prime has become the place for not-too-challenging “beach read” shows like Reacher , Bosch , Goliath , and Jack Ryan . Cross is the latest addition to that type of programming. If this kind of show is your jam, it’ll unremarkably scratch the itch. The central investigation is interesting enough, but there is a second mystery that is needlessly tacked on to the end, resulting in a final episode that is all filler. However, the relationship between partners Alex (Aldis Hodge) and John (Isaiah Mustafa) keeps it watchable.

ATLANTA: THE FINAL SEASON Starring: Donald Glover, Brian Tyree Henry, LaKeith Stanfield, and Zazie Beetz Creator: Donald Glover AMARÚ Season Four of Atlanta cements it as one of the greatest series of all time. The unpredictably poignant writing makes every second a must see, and the main foursome’s screen presence continues to keep your eyes glued. But what really makes this final season shine is its return home. The deep connection to music culture, Southern culture, and Black culture has always been a strength, but the return to the city of Atlanta created some of the best episodes of the entire series. Kudos to The Glover Brothers and Hiro Murai for sending off Atlanta as weirdly down-home as it knows how. PAIGE What I’ve loved most about Atlanta is that it never intended to play by the rules, always doing its own thing. Donald Glover (a damn genius) and Co. did just that with the series’ fourth and final season, which brought the show back to its unique and brilliant roots. The stories told are so unpredictable that you never know what you are going to get in terms of tone and subject matter; that’s what made it such a fun and weird trip. I’m going to miss these characters dearly, and I’m bummed it’s over. QUENTIN Though a smidge weaker than its previous seasons, Atlanta ’s final go ‘round continues to deliver surreal, hilarious, and thoughtful takes on black culture while also wrapping up one of the best shows of (at least) the last decade. My only complaint is, while the final moments present an ambiguity that interestingly reframes the entire series, it feels tacked on. The ending works and is on brand, but it’s slightly unearned since they didn’t thread a setup throughout the season (it feels more like a season finale than a series finale). Then again, maybe I’m just sad and bitter because I’ll miss spending time with the characters. ADRIANO Part of me wishes it had ended on a more satisfying note, but Atlanta ended in true Atlanta fashion, and for one of my all-time favourite shows, that’s good enough for me. While it once again lacks a cohesive structure, it’s refreshing to get a season focused on the main cast after Season Three’s anthology approach. We get deeper dives into these characters, and I’ve never felt more attached even as they walk off into the sunset. The show once again brings brilliant surrealism with an effective satirical bite and intensity; there are no other shows like Atlanta , and that’s why I will miss it.

THE PITT: SEASON ONE Starring: Noah Wyle, Patrick Ball, Fiona Dourif, Taylor Dearden, Gerran Howell, Isa Briones, Tracy Ifeachor, Shabana Azeez, Supriya Ganesh, Katherine LaNasa, Alexandra Metz, Krystel Mcneil, Shawn Hatosy, and Michael Hyatt Creator: R. Scott Gemmill NICK As someone who has watched a fair share of medical dramas, I think The Pitt is the most realistic one I’ve seen. It never relies on the romantic or soap opera theatrics of series like Grey’s Anatomy to make for a more exciting story, instead using the real-time format to achieve it organically. The perennially underrated Noah Wyle leads a balanced cast that manages to both leave their mark individually and enhance the overall story. With a healthy dose of hope, humour, and heartbreak, The Pitt raises the bar for what a medical series can be.

FLORIDA MAN Starring: Edgar Ramírez, Anthony LaPaglia, Abbey Lee, Otmara Marrero, Lex Scott Davis, Emory Cohen, and Clark Gregg Creator: Donald Todd QUENTIN On paper, Florida Man has a lot going for it: a twisty crime comedy starring beautiful people and a mountain of hilarity to mine from the popular Florida Man memes. However, in execution, the series feels hollow and forced, almost like AI wrote it. Nothing feels organic, from the character chemistry to the non-linear storytelling. It’s like the series is trying too hard to be a vibe instead of a show, but in a “how do you do, fellow kids?” way. Admittedly, Clark Gregg’s subplot is great, but the poor pacing, subpar writing, and breezy fluff of the main tale makes it hard to stay invested. JOSEPH Florida Man feels like it was pitched as a joke, but then was accidentally picked up. The cold openings of most episodes, which are based on Florida Man memes, only fuel this theory further for me. Sadly, this comedic neo-noir has very little comedy or mystery. It’s a shame, too, because despite the underwhelming story, the characters are well written and the cast is quite engaging. The last few episodes almost save the show, but they also highlight the weaknesses in the writing. Florida Man needed a tighter story and a clearer vision to stand out, but even with some strengths, it’s forgettable.

Previous Next October 16, 2023 WRITTEN BY: PAIGE Nothing is better than cozying up on a rainy day to watch a movie. Now imagine getting to do that for eight straight days in The Big Apple. That is exactly what I got to do at the 61st New York Film Festival, resulting in 14 films watched and Q&As with two directors, Todd Haynes and Yorgos Lanthimos. If you’ve never been, the aesthetic and vibe of being at a film festival is something special. Being surrounded by like-minded movie fanatics, experiencing the rush of seeing multiple movies a day, is an exhilarating experience, especially when you get to see some of your most anticipated movies of the year, not to mention the thrill of finding hidden gems. While I’m bummed that I missed films like Hit Man , Janet Planet , and Priscilla due to timing, I did have a better experience overall this time around, my second year in a row covering this prestigious festival. Hopefully, next year will be even better! Check out what I did get to see below, all 14 movies – ranked: 14. STRANGE WAY OF LIFE Strange Way of Life is a melodramatic queer western that feels like a cologne commercial that’s trying to rip off Ang Lee’s Brokeback Mountain . While the performances from Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal are very nuanced and engaging, the true issue with this short film is that it tries to say too much in such a short amount of time. It would have benefited greatly if it was a feature, and to be honest, one of the few things that saved it from being a total miss was Pedro Pascal's bare ass. 13. THE SETTLERS The Settlers is a brooding western that features beautiful landscape shots paired with the tones of a Robert Eggers film. Don't expect it to shy away from the violence and bloodshed either, with this directorial debut from director Felipe Gálvez Haberle showing that he has the chops to deliver a strikingly brutal film. With that said, it’s a very masculine film that relies heavily on shock value rather than a strong story to rope you in. While I dug the chapter-based storytelling structure, the overarching story did not come together for me. 12. ALL DIRT ROADS TASTE OF SALT All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt is an intimate and raw look at life that is very somber. While some may consider it to be pretentious with its metaphors of comparing human life to mother nature, its poetic themes are actually more relatable than one may think. But, unfortunately, even with its stunning imagery, its quiet and minimalistic storytelling approach will not captivate or grab your average audiences. It’s a little all over the place too. The film needed more meat on its bones to be considered satisfying. 11. THE ZONE OF INTEREST While The Zone of Interest is well-crafted, I can’t help but feel cold and disengaged from it. Mica Levi’s haunting and chilling score does create a unique atmosphere, but it’s writer/director Jonathan Glazer’s direction that didn’t have me emotionally invested in whatever story this film is trying to tell. The movie lacks narrative momentum because it feels like two films are happening at once: one you see and one you hear. If those two stories were combined together more gracefully, this slow burn Nazi drama could’ve had more weight to it. 10. EVIL DOES NOT EXIST Evil Does Not Exist is a slow-paced, peaceful story about humans and their relationship with nature, as well as a commentary on the importance of preserving our natural resources. With a fantastic score and beautiful scenes throughout, I found myself more and more interested until I reached the third act. While I thought that the story would play out one way, the third act takes a somewhat out-of-the-blue turn that feels a bit abrupt and out of place. I didn't see it coming, that’s for sure, and maybe the metaphoric ending just needed more lead up to make sense. 9. CLOSE YOUR EYES Close Your Eyes , director Victor Erice’s first film in thirty-odd years, is a very quiet and calm film that preserves the artifacts of one’s life and the thought of being forgotten. The way it conveys its message is in a simplistic and peaceful manner, built on somber but great performances. While the film’s runtime is way too long…it definitely could have afforded to cut a few scenes… try your best not to blink, lest you fall out of the movie’s trance. 8. THE BOY AND THE HERON While The Boy and the Heron is another captivating film by Hayao Miyazaki, I can’t help but feel that its themes missed the mark for me. It just wasn’t as compelling as his previous works, and it relies heavily on beats similar to those from his other films instead of bringing something new to the table. Still, it’s visually spectacular (as usual) and quite funny at times, but it's tonally inconsistent, with Joe Hisaishi’s score ultimately elevating the film’s emotional beats. 7. FOE Foe is an ambitious film that is more of a domestic drama than a world-building sci-fi spectacle. Don’t expect it to feel like the Black Mirror episode “Beyond the Sea” because its purpose is very muddled. While I actually quite enjoyed this character-driven flick, I do admit it’s a slow burn that needed a stronger story and better structure to fully come together. Still, the film does manage to play to the strength of its actors. Saoirse Ronan and Paul Mescal manage to deliver emotionally deep performances, even when the rest of the film stumbles along the way. 6. THE BEAST If Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Cloud Atlas had a baby, it would be The Beast . This bizarre yet intriguing sci-fi-like epic warns of the fear of falling in love through the lens of these characters' entangled past lives. Despite a runtime that certainly overstays its welcome, Léa Seydoux and George MacKay deliver underrated performances that deserve to be praised, and while some plot points don’t resolve in a satisfying way, the core ideal to live in the moment, not carry the weight of the past, and not to worry too much about the future is something that we all should take to heart. 5. MAY DECEMBER May December is an uncomfortable and pulpy melodrama that embraces its absurdity in a very unique manner, and in doing so, it somehow makes the film work flawlessly, proving that Todd Haynes is a hell of a director. Haynes also manages to get stellar performances from Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore, and Charles Melton (although, Melton, in particular, is the true stand out of the film). While I do wish we dove even deeper into these characters' psyche to get a better understanding of the overall picture we’re presented with, I must admit… these interpretations are memorable as is. 4. THE SWEET EAST The Sweet East may be one of my favorite hidden gems of the year. While it’s an innovative and memorable solo directorial debut from Sean Price Williams, it’s Talia Ryder's fierce lead performance that guides us through this chaotic and cynical look at modern-day America. Although this trippy coming-of-age odyssey can feel a little disjointed and messy at times, it’s held together by its wacky and magnificent cast. If you enjoyed Sean Baker’s Red Rocket , you’ll enjoy the heck out of this one. 3. ALL OF US STRANGERS All of Us Strangers is an incredibly personal film that is both heartbreaking and extremely powerful . It’s intimate, tender, and everything in between. This work of art touches on themes of loneliness and grief that will resonate with many, and I promise you it will give all the feels thanks to the stellar and moving direction from director Andrew Haigh. Plus, Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Claire Foy, and Jamie Bell all deliver riveting performances. This gem will have you rushing out of the theater when it’s over to call your loved ones. 2. POOR THINGS Poor Things is a brilliantly bizarre exploration of rebirth that offers a beautifully deranged portrait of what it means to be human, turning the very idea on its head. It allows Emma Stone, who deserves all the praise (including the Best Actress Oscar), to breathe life into her odd character. That said, the second half of the film drags a bit, and it can feel somewhat repetitive. However, that doesn’t take away from the fact that this is one of the most stunning films of the year, from its performances to the steampunk production design to the magnificent costumes. This film is truly the full package. 1. ANATOMY OF A FALL Anatomy of a Fall is a riveting courtroom drama that is subtle and brilliant all at once, featuring sharp dialogue and a thought-provoking story that will keep you guessing throughout. While Sandra Hüller (Sandra) delivers a gripping performance, it’s the boy who plays her son, Daniel (Milo Machado Graner), that is the true standout in my eyes. I was truly blown away by his performance. But, even with all of that, the film’s real beauty is that it allows its audience to determine its true outcome, which will have you thinking about it long after it’s over. Photo Credits: New York Film Festival

Previous Next Hey look, it's… That Guy! This month we've decided to spotlight some of our favourite actors who always stand out when they pop up on screen. So, the Bitesize crew has put their brains together to compile Bitesize Breakdown's consensus Top Five That Guy/Gal Actors. As per usual, each writer ranks their top 15 actors in the category. Those lists are then weighted on a reverse point system. After all the points are tallied up, the entries with the most total points make up the Bitesize Top Five. 5. BRADLEY WHITFORD Bradley Whitford is one of those guys whose face audiences can instantly recognize due to appearing on their screens for decades, even if his name doesn’t always come to mind. With a career spanning over 100 projects and three Emmy wins (eight nominations), Whitford is a versatile character actor that can do it all. From starring in goofball comedies like Billy Madison to a meta horror comedy like The Cabin in the Woods , from suspense thrillers like Get Out to prestige dramas like The Post — he can inhabit a wide range of characters, which has made him invaluable to both film and especially television. In the past two years alone, he has supported Giancarlo Esposito, Colman Domingo, Keri Russell, Allison Janney, and Michael Shannon in multiple television series. He may not have the pull of a traditional leading man, but he’s That Guy you want to round out your cast with instant credibility. — Paige 4. LUIS GUZMÁN Full transparency, we had an internal debate about whether Luis Guzmán even qualified for this list. To some, he has transcended That Guy fame to the point that he’s as known by name as someone like John Turturro or Stanley Tucci. To others, he is the quintessential That Guy — meaning, despite a wide and varied career in television and film that started in 1977, how many times have you ever seen Guzmán’s face or name on a poster? How many times has a trailer stated, “starring Luis Guzmán?” How many major awards has he been nominated for? I’d love it if more people knew this national treasure by name, and I’d love it if he got all the flowers he deserves. However, if that were to happen, I probably wouldn’t get glorious cameos and unsung supporting roles in movies ranging from Waiting… to The Salton Sea , from We’re the Millers to Boogie Nights, from The Count of Monte Cristo to The Limey . I almost certainly wouldn’t get him quietly spicing up small screen offerings like The Resort , Oz , Godfather of Harlem , How to Make it in America , or Community . So, it doesn’t matter if you point and say “Luis!” or if you point and say “Oh, it’s That Guy!” whenever he pops up on screen. He is the ultimate epitome of what That Guys bring to the table. — Quentin 3. JOHN CARROLL LYNCH One should be able to examine a small cross-section of an actor’s roles and understand their versatility, so let’s open the IMDB rolodex and look at a snapshot of John Carroll Lynch’s career: Ted 2 , The Invitation , Hot Pursuit , and a critical episode of pathos in The Walking Dead . Of note, those all came out in 2015, and it shows that no one embodies that simple idea like JCL. Over the course of a career spanning more than three decades, his ability to pop up in large projects to add a dash of gravitas or terror or whatever is needed to round out the scene is unparalleled. I could give you The Drew Carey Show as Drew’s brother, or Fargo as Marge’s husband, or suspect Arthur Leigh Allen in Zodiac , or perhaps Mac MacDonald in The Founder …and I’m not even scratching the surface. Point being, Lynch has crescendoed on a myriad of occasions to be somebody different to everyone, and while cutting an imposing figure, his chameleon-like work has helped him weave in and out of Hollywood as someone you recognize but might not be able to identify: the hallmark of a classic That Guy. — Robert 2. KEITH DAVID I know Keith David, first and foremost, as Elroy Patashnik in Community , where he was an incredibly hilarious addition to the close-knit study group in the show. In fact, his character likely saves Community’s final seasons from completely falling off. Aside from that, he has appeared in literally hundreds of film and television series over multiple decades, including Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and John Carpenter's The Thing in the 80s, Reality Bites and There’s Something About Mary in the 90s, and ER , Mr. & Mrs. Smith , Nope, and The Lowdown since the turn of the century. Furthermore, he has a wonderfully distinctive and instantly recognisable voice. You’ve probably heard him as Goliath in Gargoyles , The Cat in Coraline , Dr. Facilier in The Princess and the Frog , The President in Rick and Morty , Flame King in Adventure Time , or Lana Kane’s dad in Archer . You know who I’m talking about, right? Keith David is a legend that people may not be able to instantly name, but they’ve seen his face and heard the booming bass of his gruff voice more times than they can count. — Katie 1. JUDY GREER If you’ve seen The Long Walk , you most likely thought, “of course that chick is in this.” If you paid attention to the vocal performances in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 , you most likely said, “wait, I know that voice.” If you watched the most recent Halloween trilogy, or Jurassic World , or the Ant-Man movies, or Arrested Development , or War for the Planet of the Apes , or Two and a Half Men, or Archer , or… well, you’ve seen or heard Judy Greer. That’s because every movie needs a sister, a mother, an ex-wife, a cousin, or just someone to remind you of the people you love because they lowkey don’t bother you when telling you what you need to hear. Greer is “The Everywoman” in your family, and she does it with so much of… whatever it is a director needs in that family member at that time, be it cute goofball, bitter burnout, or a source of loving care. Despite a resume that boasts over 170 credits across screens big and small, she doesn’t have a career-defining role; however, she’s so good at what she does, she really doesn’t need one. She is the epitome of the unexpected range and quiet skill that every That Chick hopes to possess. — Amarú HONORABLE MENTIONS WILL PATTON PETER STORMARE ANN DOWD STEPHEN ROOT DAVID KRUMHOLTZ

THE SEX LIVES OF COLLEGE GIRLS: SEASON THREE Starring: Pauline Chalamet, Amrit Kaur, Alyah Chanelle Scott, Gracie Lawrence, and Mia Rodgers Creators: Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble PAIGE Class is in session, and right away, I must say that Renee Rapp's early season departure has created a sense of absence. Although a new roommate is added this season, she doesn’t completely capture her essence. At least I still like hanging out with the other original characters because they offer so much fun and charm to the show. Even if this season is the weakest of the three, I will continue following these girls until they graduate, especially if the show's creators get back on track writing storylines that female viewers can relate to. Check out our reviews for Season Two HERE .

Previous Next December 18, 2024 WRITTEN BY: PAIGE For those occasions when you simply need a break from it all or a little pick-me-up, nothing quite beats turning off your brain, cozying up, and throwing on a feel-good flick. The Feel-Good genre is a bit of an ultra-meta idea. For some, it may be an epic action flick filled with explosions, or perhaps a satisfying mystery. For others, it may be a horror movie that gives you nightmares, or a beautiful love story that speaks to their inner romantic. So, with that subjective ideal in mind, I didn’t overthink this list. My sole requirement is the movies leave me — and, I hope, you — feeling better through wonderfully optimistic messages that we all need every once in a while. Let’s face it, we’ve all experienced the days, or maybe even the weeks, when everything that could go wrong does go wrong. The movies below might just be the remedy you need to cheer yourself up because I can assure you that they will put you in a good mood, making whatever that is bothering you feel like a distant memory. Like they say, when life hands you lemons, press play on a feel-good film and watch your spirits start to lift. GOOD MORNING, VIETNAM (1987) Robin Williams, the man who always makes me smile when I see his face on screen, must make an appearance on my list of movies to lift your spirits. Good Morning, Vietnam , especially, warms my heart every time I watch it. This war dramedy examines some of the hardest moments humanity has gone through, but it does so through Williams' humorous perspective. The film emphasizes the power that laughter and music have and their ability to bring people together even in the toughest of times. Much like comedy, music can improve your mood and give you a sense of understanding, support, and connection when things get tough, and this film achieves just that. THE SANDLOT (1993) As an adult, sometimes I wish I could just go back to the good ol’ days, when I was a kid and didn’t have a care in the world. The Sandlot takes me back to those times, so when I’m feeling like I need a breather, I re-watch the modern classic. Watching it as a kid, the movie taught me about the value of friendship and courage. Now that I’m older, those themes have stuck with me even more, feeling increasingly relevant. It reminds me that life is not about winning or losing, but about evolving to face and overcome your fears. This coming-of-age movie is genuinely sweet and funny, with a ton of lessons for all ages to appreciate. LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (2006) Watching this family go above and beyond to fulfill their daughter's dreams is sure to make you smile. There’s just something about watching everything come together that will cheer your soul despite its intentional imperfections. This beautiful film teaches us that it’s acceptable to be imperfect and that you don’t need to be what “society” considers to be the norm. It teaches us that it is okay to be sad, to cry, to scream, and to lose, because at the end of the day, we are only human, so it’s most important to just be yourself. Little Miss Sunshine exhibits sentiments of joy and hope, as well as a fantastic dance sequence at the end of the film. EASY A (2010) To be honest, Easy A is among the best teen films of the 21st century. Double standards are boldly called out in this modernized adaptation of Nathaniel Hawthorne's 1850 novel The Scarlet Letter , and many younger viewers can definitely relate to the film, especially those who were in high school in the 2010s. In our teens, many of us struggled to define who we were in the face of social pressure to fit in, not to mention (especially for us ladies) being "slut shamed” due to our sexual desires. Through this movie’s witty dialogue and sassy performances, this wry yet endearing teen comedy highlights the value of remaining true to oneself, and that a woman's sexual choices are nobody's business but her own. THE WAY WAY BACK (2013) A lot of coming-of-age stories tend to be more heartbreaking or dramatic, but this movie is just so lighthearted, which is what I appreciate most about it. This easy, breezy movie may be formulaic at times, but it’s charming as hell. At least once in our lives, we’ve all felt insecure or self-conscious, so when watching this movie, many can see themselves in the lead character. The story goes on a journey from insecurity to self-assuredness, and it serves as an inspiring reminder that, no matter the age, we can all find our way through this crazy thing called life. Ultimately, The Way Way Back is a touching and relatable film that reminds us all of the power of self-acceptance and the importance of genuine connections with others. HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE (2016) Hunt for the Wilderpeople is one of those charmingly offbeat gems that provides a glimpse into the value of family. This underappreciated gem by Taika Waititi is not only hilarious, but it has a lot of heart. The film truly embodies the idea that family is not just about blood relations, but about the bonds we choose to form with people. At some point in our lives, we’ve all been a bit of a pain in the ass, but deep down most of us mean well. We just need some guidance, support, and love to get us there, which is demonstrated in this film beautifully. After all, one of the character’s mottos is "no child left behind," reminding you to give others a chance (while giving this flick a watch, I hope). THE PEANUT BUTTER FALCON (2019) The Peanut Butter Falcon 's plot conveys an inspiring message about following your heart and not letting others limit you, and its principal performers give outstanding, free-spirited performances. What makes the movie so delightful is the odyssey-like journey its protagonists take and the touching moments they spend together, reminiscent of Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn . In addition to themes of hope, kindness, optimism, and redemption, it offers a feeling of found family. The Peanut Butter Falcon should be on your radar if you're searching for a movie that will leave you smiling and full of good vibes. MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON (2021) Many probably wouldn’t think a talking shell that was once an internet sensation could be adapted into such a genuinely heartfelt film, but director Dean Fleischer Camp managed to pull it off. You’d be surprised how much joy this story can bring you. It’s a compassionate tale that deals with loss, hope, and reconciliation in a sensitive yet profound way. Marcel's (Jenny Slate) story inspires us to embrace all stages of life with an open heart and mind. All in all, this whimsical stop-motion mockumentary is a poignant reminder that we are capable of healing and coming out the other side through a tragedy, especially when we stay on the hunt for ways to heal and build resilience.

Previous Next February 27, 2023 WRITTEN BY: QUENTIN After taking Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) by storm last September (40 movies in 11 days!), I knew going in that Berlin International Film Festival, or Berlinale, was going to be a different beast altogether due to the inherent language barrier, the February timeframe, the serious focus on the “international” aspect, and the fact that I was the lone Bitesize writer in attendance. Also, since I couldn't attend the entire 11-day festival, my time in Berlin was going to be extremely truncated, so given all that, how could it be the same experience? In the end, I only had 72 hours at Berlinale, which, with some scheduling magic, afforded me the time to see seven movies and the opportunity to visit famed sites like CheckPoint Charlie, Berlin Cathedral, and the highly rated speakeasy Bellboy Berlin. All in all, it was a good trip that came together better than I anticipated. I’ll talk more about the films I saw in a bit, but first, let’s talk about the Berlinale experience. Ultimately, all the things I mentioned above had a huge impact on my festival experience; not in a “bad” way, but in a “it’s just different” way. For one, the language barrier made it extremely difficult to chat and network with other critics and film fans. Couple that with the fact that, unlike TIFF, nearly all the festival theaters were roughly 20 minutes from each other by train, and the whole experience simply felt a little less communal and celebrated. Sure, there were posters hanging around town, but there wasn’t a centrally located “Fest Street” like at TIFF. Furthermore, the overall vibe was pretty subdued…like, if you didn’t know the festival was happening, you might not have noticed it at all. Admittedly, the weather was awful: cold, windy, and rainy (like “pouring piss out of a boot,” as my late grandfather would say), which I’m sure put a damper on things, but still…. it just didn’t feel very festive. On the plus side, the international focus and early festival date created an environment for true film discovery. TIFF premiered movies like The Fabelmans , Glass Onion , and The Whale , all of which came with massive hype and expectations as we neared awards season. Berlinale doesn’t play the same because there isn’t any hype or narrative surrounding these movies yet (most don’t have trailers or even posters), so you’re basically throwing darts. For example, I chose one movie merely because Alicia Silverstone was in it, which is a weird sentence to say in 2023. Also, I was able to secure extra tickets to two screenings, so my girlfriend got to enjoy a bit of the festival experience as well, including the world premiere, red carpet, and Q&A for Reality , starring Sydney Sweeney. As for those dart throws, I got pretty lucky because they hit the mark for the most part. Speaking of which, let’s talk about some movies… PERPETRATOR This is the movie I chose mostly because of Alicia Silverstone, but I was also intrigued by the synopsis and Midnight Madness horror vibes it gave off. And frankly, there weren’t a ton of options for the time window I had. Unfortunately, my first Berlinale movie was also the worst movie I saw. It’s never lacking in gore or violence, but the whole affair feels like a slightly elevated student film, from the amateurish acting to the over-the-topness of it all. It’s angry, visceral feminist horror, which isn’t a bad thing, but it plays more like a visual art experiment than a coherent movie. It’s simply overstuffed with too many ideas and too many swings at extreme and campy rawness. All that said, Cronenberg die-hards might find something here worth their while. As for Silverstone, her campy staccato line delivery is laughably distracting at times, but my teenage crush remains strong, nonetheless. Synopsis : On her 18th birthday, tough-girl Jonny (Kiah McKirnan) eats a cake baked by her aunt according to a magical family recipe and undergoes a radical metamorphosis. As several classmates go missing, a bloody coming-of-age story takes its course. Starring : Kiah McKirnan, Alicia Silverstone, Christopher Lowell, Melanie Liburd, and Ireon Roach Director : Jennifer Reeder BLACKBERRY Of all the movies available to me during my short time, BlackBerry is probably the one I was most looking forward to. For one, it seemed to be the most accessible movie for an English-speaking American in Germany because of its recognizable cast and my general familiarity with BlackBerry phones. But also, I love a good rise-and-fall corporate story, something this film certainly delivers. Tone-wise, it nimbly bounces between Silicon Valley and The Social Network , while the "rise" arc is much stronger than that of the "fall," which is a tad rushed. However, I can’t say enough about the casting. Glenn Howerton is perfect as a hot-headed corporate shark, bringing the same deep-seated rage he has demonstrated on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia for 15 seasons, and Jay Baruchel’s natural awkwardness serves his nerdy, “tech guy” character well. It’s not Oscar-worthy, but I wouldn’t be surprised if BlackBerry eventually wins some smaller awards down the line. Synopsis : Adapted from the bestselling book Losing the Signal , BlackBerry tells the story of the spectacular rise and meteoric fall of the world’s first Smartphone. A humorous but unforgiving modern-day tale of big business and the relentless need to stay on top. Starring : Jay Baruchel, Glenn Howerton, Matt Johnson, Cary Elwes, and Saul Rubinek Director : Matt Johnson REALITY Going in, I had a few reservations about Reality . If you aren’t aware, I am a former NSA contractor, so I have personal opinions about those who leak national secrets to the press, and typically, movies like this tend to go in the opposite direction of what I think. But I must give director Tina Satter credit because for most of the film’s 83-minute runtime, she doesn’t really take a side or paint Reality Winner (Sydney Sweeney) as a hero or a villain. The film remains neutral…until the last 10 minutes or so, when a quick montage belies that neutrality. Still, the movie is excellent. The approach is incredibly inventive, creating a surreal pseudo-documentary that helps establish a matter-of-fact point of view in the early goings. Plus, Sweeney is absolutely remarkable, playing a character that evolves from innocent naiveté to terrified realization with aplomb, and the chemistry and tension built between her, Josh Hamilton, and Marchánt Davis is off the charts. All in all, Reality should be on the shortlist of movies coming out of Berlinale with genuine Oscar buzz. Synopsis : Director Tina Satter presents a snapshot of recent U.S. history and, using unedited original dialogue from an FBI recording, re-enacts the 2017 search of NSA whistle-blower Reality Winner’s home as a tense chamber piece. Starring : Sydney Sweeney, Josh Hamilton, and Marchánt Davis Director : Tina Satter THE ADULTS Truth be told, broadly speaking, this isn’t a movie that I’d make an effort to see. I’m just not a fan of Michael Cera’s particular brand of insecure nerd quirk, and the “person reconnects with family on a random trip home” isn’t exactly my go-to genre. That said, slim pickings, a recognizable star, and the mention of poker addiction in the synopsis made it the default choice on an early Sunday morning. Turns out, I would have been right to avoid The Adults . First of all, the most interesting aspect to me (the poker addiction) is severely underdeveloped. The story never paints Eric (Cera) as a true addict. He’s not broke, he’s not on tilt, and there is no struggle. He’s just a dude that really likes to play poker. Secondly, the dynamic between Eric and his two sisters is quirky and odd, but not in a cute way. There are multiple scenes where they talk to each other through weird impressions and made-up characters that they give absolutely zero context for. If you thought Michael Cera could be annoying before, wait until you see him crash his sister’s party doing a cringe Tony Soprano impression. I admit my preconceived bias likely is a factor here, but with even the lowest of expectations, this was a stinker. Synopsis : The plan to make a trip back home as short as possible begins to unravel when Eric (Michael Cera) has to balance his addiction to poker with the challenging relationships with his two sisters Rachel (Hannah Gross) and Maggie (Sophia Lillis). All three are not the kids they used to be. Or are they? Starring : Michael Cera, Hannah Gross, Sophia Lillis, Wavyy Jonez, and Anoop Desai Director : Dustin Guy Defa HELLO DANKNESS While not a “movie” in the most typical sense of the word, Hello Dankness is the Berlinale offering that I will spend the next few years telling everyone about. It’s an amazingly brilliant piece of art that perfectly encapsulates what it was like to live in the U.S. during President Trump’s time in office (depending on your political affiliation, I suppose). By repurposing, deep-faking, and manipulating movie clips from things like The ‘Burbs , Wayne’s World , American Beauty , and multiple zombie movies, the narrative’s stunning accuracy is only outdone by how clever it all is. Plus, as a movie fan, I was in constant “DiCaprio pointing at the screen” mode with each new doctored clip. In one surreal moment – keep in mind that I’m in Berlin – a 1940s-era, pro-Nazi song starts playing over a section that is representing the most extreme of Trump’s supporters. It drove numerous people to walk out. It was a wild scene, just like the movie, and it solidified that the directing duo Soda Jerk is a team whose work I will constantly seek out. Synopsis : Assembling hundreds of film clips and media images, artist duo Soda Jerk creates a startling narrative about the changes undergone by American society since President Trump, while relishing in reflecting on contemporary cultural values. Starring : -- Director : Soda Jerk MANODROME Similar to Michael Cera, Jesse Eisenberg also has his own particular brand: the internally angry and insecure white man. In Manodrome , with seemingly complete disregard for being further typecast, Eisenberg perfectly captures the aura of a rage-filled incel and toxic masculinity. Between the way he carries himself in the gym to the stone-washed "Bro" jeans, it’s all on point. Opposite him is Adrien Brody, who despite being an Oscar winner, has quietly made a career of popping up in supporting roles to inject a level of menace and gravitas. Granted, the story isn’t quite as strong as their performances, going pretty much where you’d expect it to go, but that doesn’t mean it’s poorly told or weak. It’s just not as incisive as it could have been despite still being an interesting examination of a broken man who feels he is a casualty in the battle against the patriarchy. Synopsis : Ralphie (Jesse Eisenberg) is about to become a father, but his job and his personal situation fail to make him happy. When he is inducted into a libertarian masculinity cult, this awakens repressed desires and he loses his grip on reality. Starring : Jesse Eisenberg, Adrien Brody, Odessa Young, Sallieu Sesay, and Philip Ettinger Director : John Trengove INFINITY POOL Having already premiered in the U.S., Infinity Pool finally had its European Premiere at Berlinale, and I gotta say… I wasn’t a fan. It kicks off with a very intriguing premise, and I can’t fault the acting for the most part, but it slowly, and admittedly confidently, goes off the rails as the story moves along. It seems director Brandon Cronenberg was more interested in putting together a series of jaw-droppingly provocative set pieces than weaving together a coherent narrative. After not caring for Cronenberg’s last directorial effort, Possessor , it might be that his films just aren’t my thing. With that in mind, there are surely those who like to vibe out to pure shock-value horror imagery and trippy sex scenes, and for those people, Infinity Pool is a must see. Synopsis : James (Alexander Skarsgård) and Em (Cleopatra Coleman) are enjoying the perfect vacation, but once a tragic accident occurs, there is no way back for the couple. Violence, boundless hedonism, and the horror of an unimaginable choice: be executed or, if you can afford it, watch yourself die! Starring : Alexander Skarsgård, Mia Goth, Cleopatra Coleman, Jalil Lespert, and Thomas Kretschmann Director : Brandon Cronenberg Photo Credits: Berlin International Film Festival

WONDLA: SEASON TWO Starring: Jeanine Mason, Teri Hatcher, Brad Garrett, Gary Anthony Williams, D.C. Douglas, John Kim, Ana Villafañe, and Alan Tudyk Creator: Bobs Gannaway AMARÚ While Wondla Season One had a good mix of family-friendly television and adult-themed stakes, Season Two leans a little too heavily on the family-friendly early on. The first season established its commitment to darker themes presented to kids in an intelligent and thought-provoking way, and while this season provides some authentic scares and thrills as the mystery unravels, especially in later episodes, early conflicts are much more easily resolved. But stick through those early growing pains, because even though it takes some time to quell Q’s previous Paw Patrol comments, by the end, Wondla proves that its commitment is steady. Check out our reviews for Season One HERE .

THE BLACKLIST: SEASON NINE Starring: James Spader, Diego Klattenhoff, Harry Lennix, Hisham Tawfiq, Amir Arison, and Laura Sohn Creator: Jon Bokenkamp NICK With the departures of creator Jon Bokenkamp and star Megan Boone, the ninth season of The Blacklist was going to be an uphill climb. A series focused on the relationship between its two lead characters loses its purpose when one of those characters is no longer there. The new storyline threads and an unnecessary extension of Elizabeth Keene's (Boone) death don’t hold the weight of earlier seasons, and the “villain-of-the-week” gets tiresome. As much as James Spader (and the underrated supporting cast) give great performances, the sad realization is that this show doesn’t need to exist anymore.

Previous Next August 11, 2025 Something feels weird... kind of freaky... like we've been here before but in a different way. Having the original audience trade places, what was old shall feel new. The trouble is doubled, but does that mean the fun will be too? After 20+ years, Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan have reunited for another freaky experience. Does Freakier Friday retain the magic of the original, or is this yet another unnecessary legacy sequel? Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channel for all of our latest video content including our interviews, and be sure to give us a thumbs up and comment your thoughts!