Search Results

THE WOMAN IN THE HOUSE ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE GIRL IN THE WINDOW Starring: Kristen Bell, Michael Ealy, Tom Riley, Mary Holland, Cameron Britton, and Samsara Leela Yett Creators: Hugh Davidson, Larry Dorf, and Rachel Ramras QUENTIN Aside from a few scenes (including an over-the-top sex scene that is as bonkers as it is raunchy), The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window seems to think parody is simply doing a purposely “bad,” Lifetime-version of this type of story, which isn’t the same as skillfully skewering it. Frankly, the show is never as clever as its title, and the pseudo-serious approach ruins an idea rife with comedic potential. That said, Kristen Bell is always watchable, and fans of cheesy movies-of-the-week might get enough enjoyment to make the 4-hour binge watch worthwhile. JOSEPH Kristen Bell is lovable and charismatic enough to make anything watchable, even The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window . This comedy offers little in terms of humor, with the title being the funniest part, but it is entertaining. The story is a clever satire of the “missing woman” genre, and it’s convoluted enough to keep you engaged in the mystery. Still, it feels like more could have been done to make it either funnier or darker, but instead it rests comfortably in between.

THE GIRL FROM PLAINVILLE Starring: Elle Fanning, Chloë Sevigny, Cara Buono, Kai Lennox, Colton Ryan, and Norbert Leo Butz Creators: Liz Hannah and Patrick Macmanus QUENTIN Despite being based on a layered true story and featuring great performances from Elle Fanning and Chloë Sevigny, The Girl from Plainville fails to explore Michelle Carter’s (Fanning) actions any deeper than surface level. Perhaps it’s by design in not wanting to sensationalize or pick sides in the case, but the series only hints at the “why” of it all. It seems content with being a Wikipedia-level overview of events, which, admittedly, is probably more respectful to the involved parties, but it doesn’t necessarily make for excellent television drama. That’s not to say the series isn’t worth your time. It just feels a little sterile.

WHITE HOUSE PLUMBERS Starring: Woody Harrelson, Justin Theroux, Lena Headey, Domhnall Gleeson, Judy Greer, Kim Coates, Gary Cole, Rich Sommer, and Toby Huss Creators: Alex Gregory and Peter Huyck ADRIANO White House Plumbers could have been great. An interesting look at the Watergate scandal could make for some engaging TV, but between talented actors seemingly forgetting how to act (I’m looking at you, Woody Harrelson) and really rough character work, the incompetency of this show is on full display. Ultimately, though, what really sinks the series is the tone. The creators clearly were aiming for a Veep meets Succession tone that they were incapable of pulling off, which made the show a cringey and laborious experience to sit through weekly. All in all, just a whole lot of wasted opportunities. QUENTIN After having watched Starz’ Gaslit last year, I wasn’t entirely sure that I needed another star-studded miniseries about Watergate, but I decided to give it a go based on the talent involved and HBO’s reputation. This was a mistake. I understand that the true story has an inherent stranger-than-fiction quality, but the approach taken here is almost one of pure farce over satire. Imagine The Nice Guys meets the Coen Bros’ The Ladykillers , but in a cringey, try-way-too-hard kinda way. The humor just doesn’t land, which creates a tone that undermines the historical facts. It’s only five episodes, but they are genuinely hard to watch.

Previous Next March 27, 2024 WRITTEN BY: THE BITESIZE CREW One of the many things the pandemic took from us was the ability to see movies in a theatre. It was something many people took for granted, and even now, the industry is still trying to get back on its feet as it contends with new options that fall in favour of things like convenience, on-the-go watching, and not having to pay insane concession prices. Still, while the theatrical experience is no doubt something in need of refreshment (something Caleb examined HERE ), it also is something that cannot be fully replicated at home. There's something inherently personal about sharing a first-time experience with a group of people you'll likely never even say a word to. You gather with shared love, then you experience that love together with unspoken acknowledgement. Whether it's for shock & awe, tearjerkers, technical marvels, or blood-curdling scares, it's an experience everyone inside that room won't soon forget. For a couple of hours, you and a group of strangers from all walks of life are connected as one. Isn’t that beautiful? So, with that in mind, let’s talk about some of our most memorable theatrical experiences. Who knows? We may have even shared a few together. When Jackass: The Movie released in 2002, I was one of only seven students of color in my entire 7th grade class. That context sets up how hilarious it was for my brother, sister, and me to watch “The Burglars” scene in a packed Ohio theater. Everyone in the theater cackled once Bam Margera and Johnny Knoxville fell through the office ceiling... but then, the lone black prank victim in the scene got up, ran across the office, and SPRINTED down the street non-stop while his white counterparts stared at the burglars in awe. The three of us kept laughing deep from our souls while every other (white) theatergoer stared at us wondering, “why are you still laughing?” from their unknowing eyes. Look, being black in America is a uniquely joyful experience, and this one will forever be imprinted in my brain. If you know, you know. - Amarú One of the most memorable and moving movie-going experiences I’ve ever had was when I was just a wee padawan. In 1999, before the release of Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace , Lucasfilm re-released Star Wars: A New Hope in theaters. At the time, I had no idea my life would change forever. I remember the day like it was yesterday. My aunt had called my mom to ask if I could skip school and go to the movies with her. I remember just being happy that I got to skip school, but I wasn’t prepared for what was to come next. Once the opening scroll began, and the words “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…” appeared on the big screen, that was it. A flame ignited inside me, and my love for all movies, but specifically Star Wars , was born. Fast forward 25 years: I have two Star Wars tattoos and a bunch of Star Wars memorabilia, and I make it a point to be there opening night for every new franchise entry. - Paige The trailers for Godzilla (2014) were shrouded in secrecy, so when I sat down to watch the reboot in theaters, I had no idea what Godzilla was going to look like. As a massive Godzilla fan, this was equal parts exciting and excruciating, but I’ll never forget watching his reveal for the first time. After teasing the monster throughout the first act, Godzilla’s massive foot finally crashes down outside the Honolulu airport. The theater fell dead silent as the camera moved upwards, slowly revealing this new Godzilla in all his glory. It was everything I could have hoped for. He looked pitch perfect. As Godzilla let out his iconic roar, I knew that the king of the monsters was finally back. - Caleb On Barbenheimer weekend, I saw Barbie at my favourite local cinema. They encouraged everyone to dress up as Barbie, offering free drinks to anyone who participated. This resulted in a multitude of people, including myself and my boyfriend, clad in pink and sparkles greeting each other with an excited “Hi Barbie!” The thing is, on the whole, British cinema audiences are generally quiet and polite, which is how I like it. However, on this occasion, with the joyful atmosphere, I loved hearing everyone around me shamelessly cheer and cry. I had never experienced such a sense of community and spirited atmosphere in a cinema audience. - Katie From Pulp Fiction to Snakes on a Plane , Samuel L. Jackson’s voice looms large when thinking back on his movies, but none made a bigger impact on me than when my brother, a good friend, and I saw Deep Blue Sea . SLJ was undoubtedly the biggest name amongst the Thomas Janes and Saffron Burrows of the cast. So, by the time the sharks had bitten off Stellan Skarsgård’s arm and trapped the survivors under water and rubble, we were ready for SLJ’s rousing speech when his character finally yelled “ENOUGH!” They weren’t going to fight each other anymore. They were going to pull together, and they were going to “OH SHIT THEY ATE HIM!! A FUCKING SHARK ATE HIM!!!” We jumped full-out of our seats laughing at the randomness that had happened. I’m laughing now just thinking about it. I’m so glad there wasn’t social media back then to spoil that viscerally funny WTF theater moment. - Amarú When I was 17 years old, my friends and I decided to sneak in to see a new, original, R-rated comedy from a debut filmmaker, The Coup frontman, Boots Riley. Since seeing it, Sorry to Bother You has continued to be one of my absolute favourite films, partially because I was able to experience it with an audience. Watching the originality and chaos, and laughing along with my friends, was just too much fun. However, the highlight of that experience was (if you haven't seen Sorry to Bother You , stop reading now) the big reveal of the horse-people, which caused a variety of reactions from the audience: laughter, shock, fear, and confusion…all at the same time. That shock and awe drove us to the end, as we couldn't stop laughing at it; when it comes to comedy, there's not much more one can ask for in a theatrical experience. - Adriano I’ve seen excellent twists before, including from filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, but I’d never seen a twist that retroactively created a cinematic universe… until Split . Picture this: a great film is coming to a close with everyone on a high, but just before the closing title card hits, a subtle music cue begins. The theater starts to murmur a little as a smattering of the audience realizes that it’s the theme from Unbreakable . Personally, I recognized the music, but couldn’t quite place it. Then the camera pans through a diner as a news story about The Horde plays, which leads to a customer recalling “the crazy guy in the wheelchair from 15 years ago.” He had a “funny name” that she can’t recall. At this point, a larger portion of the audience gasped as they (and myself) made the connection. Finally, the pan ends on the man at the end of the counter. “Mr. Glass,” he says, as you realize it’s Bruce Willis’ David Dunn. Fade to black, uproarious applause. It was a moment made for the theater, and it was exceptionally executed in a way that led to an audible crescendo of anticipation. Unforgettable. - Nick The year was 1999, and the literary titan that you read before you was an English-class-ditching-skateboarder who had just entered his final formative high school year. At that time, a little-known director by the name of M. Night Shyamalan was about to break through with his third movie, The Sixth Sense . One of my best friends had already seen the film, and he was super excited about it. As he raved, I rushed to interrupt him. “Don’t spoil anything becau…” Then he said it. ”Bruce Willis is dead the whole time!!” Maybe the biggest surprise ending in all of film history, and I knew the whole time! This little tale has entered my back pocket as a story trumper whenever spoilers are discussed and, as things often do, recalling a thing that once made me angry will now always make me smile. Isn’t that how life goes? R.I.P. Gian Carlos. - Preston When I sat down to watch Arrival for the first time, I wasn't expecting it to blow my mind - but it did just that. Without giving too much away, Arrival ’s big twist is so ingeniously interwoven into the fabric of the story that it managed to catch me off guard despite staring me in the face the entire time. It flipped the entire movie on its head, and immediately made me rethink everything I thought I knew about the story. Once I finally clued-in to what was actually happening, I remember gasping so loud that my buddy actually had to shush me. It's probably not my finest theater-going moment, but it was certainly one of the most memorable. - Caleb You had to be there in 2003 when countless lines of people waiting to see The Matrix Revolutions snaked outside theater doors across the country. There is one line, in particular, I remember, and I shudder thinking about it as I write this. As my family and I were leaving the movie…as we walked by a long row of people waiting to get in…one unnamed family member says, fairly loudly, “well, we all knew Neo had to die.” You could hear the imaginary record scratching as everyone in line yelled “NOOOOO!!” This person calmly spoiled the biggest movie of the decade for those poor, unfortunate souls. I never walked so fast and so far away from a person in my life. To this day, that person says those in line shouldn’t have been listening to our conversation, and I just shake my head in disbelief. - Amarú As a movie fan who grew up before the internet became ubiquitous, I’d spend time reading movie magazines about the almost-fantasy world of Hollywood. To me, there was one Hollywood staple that seemed too prestigious, glamourous, and most importantly, unattainable for a fat, mulleted kid from Kentucky: The Red Carpet. But you know what? Apparently not. Through luck, timing, and a modicum of not-so-hard work, I became accredited press for Toronto International Film Festival in 2022. Somehow, I’d done it. I made it to the thing I’d read about long ago. But first, if I may digress, attending a film festival as press is an unforgettable experience. Was I one of the first people in the world to see the 7x Oscar-nominated The Fabelmans , with director Steven Spielberg and the cast in attendance? Mmhmm. Did a stunning Kate Hudson make the “I see you” hand gesture to me at the Glass Onion world premiere? Fuck yeah, she did. Did I awkwardly meet Finn Wolfhard at a urinal? Yep. But that all pales in comparison to the Red Carpet because that is where I met NICOLAS. FUCKING! CAGE!! I asked questions, I shook his hand, I peed a little. Honestly, the rest is kind of a blur since I blacked out like Will Ferrell’s character in Old School , but I can’t help but think about the young Kentucky fatty with the Camaro Cut. What would he say knowing that, someday, he’d be on the Red Carpet with nothing but a cell phone, sandwiched between the elaborate camera setups of Variety and Al-Jazeera, rubbing elbows with the stars? Then, what would he say knowing he’d get to do it again at Berlin? And Venice? And soon, Cannes? That Tons O’ Fun with the Kentucky Waterfall is living his best movie life these days. - Quentin Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is the first film I ever saw in IMAX. I was 17 years old, I went with my boyfriend to the IMAX in Leicester Square on Boxing Day, and I was so excited to see the iconic screen I had heard so much about. We bought overpriced popcorn, found our seats, and I was overwhelmed by the scale of it. Plus, I loved the film. The action was captivating, the effects were fantastic, and I loved the darker, more grounded approach the film took to the Star Wars universe. But the best thing was the emotional final scene, which was breathtaking to watch for the first time on the biggest screen I had ever experienced. - Katie In case you didn't know, Quentin Tarantino is my all-time favorite director. He is one of those filmmakers whose style and storytelling are so unique and bold that I always find myself in literal awe when watching his films. So, when I found out he had his own movie theater, New Beverly Cinema in Los Angeles, where he plans the film program and only projects movies on actual film, I dreamt that maybe one day I could see something there. I had to fulfill this desire, but I couldn't simply watch just any movie — I had to see a movie written and directed by Quentin Tarantino. The emotion I get when I watch his films at home was multiplied just by approaching the box office window, prepared to buy a ticket for Reservoir Dogs , his directorial debut. This small, retro cinema has an atmosphere and style straight out of a Tarantino film, a perfect pairing for the small and retro Reservoir Dogs , and I will forever treasure the experience. - Paige Another movie memory comes from my senior year of high school (maybe my love of film had something to do with the last couple of years of high school note to discuss with therapist ). Funds-shortage was always a problem, so when I wasn’t going to what we called the “dollar movies'' (old films played at the mall theater), I was really splurging. Thankfully, one of those splurge sessions led me to see The Matrix . As a wanna-be tough guy and philosopher beset by an age-defining existential crisis, this industry-revolutionizing film could not have come at a more appropriate time. One of my favorite bands at the time happened to be Rage Against the Machine, and when that final scene hits, whew! The guitar riff on “Wake Up” starts to play as Keanu Reeves walks out of the phone booth, looks around at the sad souls still trapped in the matrix, and then…WHAT?! Is he flying?! Queue Zack De La Rocha. Freaking goosebumps every time! - Preston This past December, TIFF held a month-long program that showed classic and contemporary films on 70mm print. It was my mission to watch the entire program, and while I wasn't successful, I still seized the opportunity to see Boogie Nights , Lawrence of Arabia , and West Side Story . However, the crown jewel of the program, in my opinion, was Stanley Kubrick's influential 1968 masterpiece, 2001: A Space Odyssey . Seeing it not only on the big screen, but also on print, was magical. I'd already seen and loved the film, but something about watching the film's colours, ideas, and enthralling final act on one of my favourite theatre screens in Ontario, on a style of film that allows for all the detail to be seen even clearer…I don't see myself ever forgetting such an experience. - Adriano Inception is my favorite movie of all time, so, naturally, I watched it four times in the theater. The last time was the best, though. I excitedly re-lived Paris exploding in Ariadne’s (Elliot Page) mind. I was still mesmerized at Arthur (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) floating around in that awesome hallway fight scene. I happily uttered “you mustn’t be afraid to dream a little bigger, darling” alongside Eames (Tom Hardy). I still got emotional when Hans Zimmer’s “Time” boomed alongside the emotional catharsis that Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) felt walking through that airport. I was already planning my fifth theater-watch as Mal’s (Marion Cotillard) totem started spinning. However, when the screen went to black, keeping the totem’s fate forever a secret, an older black woman said, very loudly for all to hear, “oh HEEEELLLL NAW.” Yep. Nothing was going to beat that. I never watched Inception in theaters again. - Amarú Media Credits: Media 1, 9 - Paramount Pictures; Media 2, 8, 12 - Walt Disney Studios; Media 3, 5, 10, 14, 16 - Warner Bros. Pictures; Media 4 - Kelly Bagwe; Media 6 - Annapurna Pictures; Media 7 - Universal Pictures; Media 13 - New Beverly Cinema; Media 15 - MGM Studios

Previous Next November 8, 2023 WRITTEN BY: ADRIANO With Priscilla currently in theaters, I wanted to take the opportunity to talk about one of my all-time favourite filmmakers, Sofia Coppola. The daughter of legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, she has carved herself a distinguished niche in the indie scene, known for her restrained examinations of many subjects, but mostly womanhood and fame. While her films often require patience, she always offers something beneath the surface that rewards patient viewers. And while her work has ascended the indie ladder in terms of prominence, she remains committed to her low-budget and thorough roots. With that in mind, continue reading for my account of Sofia Coppola’s filmography, ranked... 8. ON THE ROCKS (2020) Admittedly, On the Rocks has never been my favourite film of Coppola’s. While it’s far from a bad film, it’s the rare time her restrained nature holds the film back, as it prevents the film from reaching the dramatic peaks it's aiming for. That all said, Rashida Jones and Bill Murray (mostly Murray) make even the most tiresome moments watchable. Like most of Coppola’s work, the strengths lie in the writing, where her examination of the trauma that can come from one’s parents elicits strong emotions in a way that never undercuts the almost slapsticky sitcom nature of the film. 7. THE BEGUILED (2017) Coppola going the gothic route is something that enticed me almost instantly with The Beguiled . She effectively uses her stacked ensemble (Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, and Elle Fanning) to elevate a film whose aesthetic alone is enough to draw in anyone not completely on board with the rather challenging subject matter. Coppola herself has pushed back against the idea that The Beguiled is about female empowerment, and the film opts for an honest portrayal of women’s desires in a new take on the source material. While it doesn’t shy away from Coppola’s usual filmmaking style, there’s a genuine argument to be made that this is her boldest film yet. 6. THE BLING RING (2013) Infatuation with fame is Coppola’s next target, and The Bling Ring is a vastly underrated crime dramedy that sees an interesting true story turned into a stylized yet earnest coming-of-age film. The whole ensemble is excellent (this might be Emma Watson’s best performance), and the movie is properly funny and exciting when it needs to be. However, it’s the Coppola touch that sets the film apart. The isolation these teens feel, as well as the feeling that they’re too small for the ambitions they want to conquer, is properly explored as the morality of their actions becomes increasingly more questionable. This is one of Coppola's more mixed-reviewed films, with some critics taking issue with the morally ambiguous way in which the subjects are handled. On one hand, I can understand that, but I'd argue the film emotionally justifies them while simultaneously not giving them a pass, which shows the strength of Coppola's nuanced writing. 5. SOMEWHERE (2010) Somewhere is admittedly Coppola’s most patient film. It’s unquestionably a slow burn that offers no easy answers to the themes she is asking its viewers to ponder. But it’s an extraordinarily rewarding viewing experience for anyone willing to explore the vast details of Coppola’s view of fame and parenthood. These themes are nothing new for Coppola, but the calm yet expressive way that they are explored in Somewhere offer something refreshing. While the film is yet another example of just how good of a writer she is, Coppola deserves more praise for her skills as a director here, as she paints a portrait of this father-daughter relationship (played lovingly by Stephen Dorff and Elle Fanning) with meditative ease and satisfying relief. 4. LOST IN TRANSLATION (2003) I’m willing to admit that the nature of Coppola’s films doesn’t always make her films an easy recommendation. However, Lost in Translation is the exception. Not that Coppola compromises what makes her great, but Lost in Translation is a funny and deeply moving film that features a Bill Murray performance in which he shows a side of himself that had never been explored before. Coppola being raised in the limelight seemingly has affected her, and it’s glaringly apparent here as we see an actor go through a midlife crisis with honest pathos complemented by a lighter touch to offset the hardship. The film that won Coppola her first Oscar (…so far) has a lot happening under the surface that can be explored, but even if you don’t want to take that plunge, there is a perfectly endearing rom-com that anyone can enjoy. 3. PRISCILLA (2023) I’ve only seen Priscilla once, and I can already write a whole article about the many nuances of Cailee Spaeny’s performance alone. Through the guise of telling the story of Elvis (Jacob Elordi) and Priscilla Presley (Spaeny), Coppola paints an almost fairytale-like portrait of the flame of young love that feels judgment-free yet honest about the central relationship. What makes Priscilla so special, though, is when Coppola begins to examine when that flame goes out. The loss of innocence on display is powerful, even without the historical context. Such an approach to a famously documented relationship needed a deft hand, and thankfully, Coppola was more than up to the task. I have so much I want to say about this film since it's still fresh in my mind, but I'll stop there for now. 2. THE VIRGIN SUICIDES (1999) Coppola’s first film, The Virgin Suicides , is one hell of a film on which to begin a filmmaking career. With an almost dreamy eeriness, The Virgin Suicides ’ examination of teen angst and adolescence, specifically in women, remains one of her most compelling works, and it set the bar for how she would continue to approach filmmaking for the rest of her career up to this point. While certain dark subjects are explored (the movie is called The Virgin Suicides , after all), the movie never teeters into melodramatic territory, remaining lucid while taking the subjects as seriously as necessary. It’s one of the most impressive and daring debuts I've ever seen, and it set a high bar for Coppola's career going forward. 1. MARIE ANTOINETTE (2006) I know Rotten Tomatoes is not the end-all and be-all, but I need a serious and detailed explanation as to how Marie Antoinette has a 58% critic score and a 56% audience score. If you want a better example of the hold that Coppola can have over her subjects, look no further than this underrated gem. Even aside from the beautiful aesthetics and set designs that are both somehow period-accurate and modern all at once, Coppola infuses her distinct interpretation of the titular character with a delightfully anachronistic soundtrack. And as punk rock as this movie can be, it's Coppola's view of how isolating being a woman can be, especially when the whole world is looking at you, that sets it apart from being just another stylish biopic. It's one of the many reasons that Coppola's filmography is so special, and I hope that one day, this movie will be looked upon more favourably.

SUGAR: SEASON ONE Starring: Colin Farrell, Kirby, Amy Ryan, Nate Corddry, Dennis Boutsikaris, Alex Hernandez, Anna Gunn, James Cromwell, and Eric Lange Creator: Mark Protosevich QUENTIN If one can get past the weird directorial choices, Sugar is a thoroughly engaging hard-boiled detective noir that harkens back to the days of Humphrey Bogart. That is, until an absolutely bonkers reveal in Episode Six mostly derails everything. That aside, Colin Farrell is typically great, but the overall pacing might be off-putting for some. I binged the series in one sitting, and I can’t imagine the frustration of watching it weekly. I really wish I could say more without getting spoilery because I want to talk about that twist so badly, but, for now, I can only say Sugar is terrific until it isn’t. NICK Although Sugar has a series-altering twist late in its inaugural season, the majority of the show is a love letter to detective stories of the Golden Age. Led by the perfectly cast Colin Farrell as private investigator John Sugar, the series uses a mix of narration and vintage film clips to tell its story, which it does in highly engaging fashion. Hell, it’s flat out great. Then comes that twist… it doesn’t ruin the series, but it also doesn’t add to it. Were this a limited series, I’d have questioned the decision, but beyond this season, it opens the door for many interesting directions.

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.

THE CROWDED ROOM: SEASON ONE Starring: Tom Holland, Amanda Seyfried, Emmy Rossum, Christopher Abbott, Sasha Lane, Lior Raz, Will Chase, and Jason Isaacs Creator: Akiva Goldsman PAIGE From someone who went into this limited series completely blind (which I highly recommend), y’all are in for a treat because The Crowded Room is a spectacular show that shines a light on mental health and the bias towards it in the 1970s. Plus, Tom Holland just blew me away with his performance. I honestly didn’t know he had it in him, but he really shows off his acting chops. Admittedly, it can be hard to watch at times, but there is something special here that makes it worth the effort, especially considering the twists that I absolutely did not see coming. QUENTIN I admit this review will be very unfair because prior to watching the screener provided, major revelations and twists were spoiled for me. Imagine watching The Sixth Sense or The Usual Suspects for the first time while knowing the twist. It takes a lot of wind out of the narrative’s sails, and as a result, the mystery-driven story didn’t really hold my interest. That said, the performances, especially from Tom Holland, production design, and soundtrack are all excellent. Again, it’s probably much better than I am giving it credit for here, but I warn you, go in knowing as little about the story as possible.

Previous Next June 17, 2022 WRITTEN BY: JOSEPH As we come to the halfway point of Pride Month, I feel it’s important to shine a light on some spectacular queer films and series. Sadly, due to the likes of the Hays Code and the Legion of Decency (perfect supervillain group name, btw), many minorities, including queer people, were unable to be depicted on screen in the early to mid-20th century, so the entries on this list are relatively recent. That being said, these titles barely scratch the surface of queer media, and I implore you to seek out the beautiful work being done on a daily basis by the queer community. As for the list, while some titles may be more about the subtext, others are more direct and explicit. I did my best to include the underseen gems and less traditional options that often get overshadowed by more mainstream fare. That’s why you won’t see the likes of Moonlight and Schitt’s Creek below. Nevertheless, I feel there is something on this list for everyone, and I hope you walk away from this article with at least one new entry for your Watch Queue. But, more importantly, I hope you come to understand that the LGBTQ+ community is not a monolith. It’s a wide spectrum, and queer representation on screen should be depicted as such. Hopefully, as society begins to embrace alternate lifestyles more and more, so will Hollywood. I wish you all a Happy Pride Month, and may you all live your truest, fullest lives! WEEKEND (2011) While I haven’t seen the classic Before trilogy starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, Weekend has aptly been regarded by many as its queer contemporary. Following a one-night stand, Russell (Tom Cullen) and Glen (Chris New) begin to form a bond over the course of Glen’s last weekend before he leaves the country. The film asks its viewers the question “can you fall in love in just three days?” As they spend more time together, you find it increasingly believable that the answer is “yes.” It’s arguably the best gay romance ever made, and one that has not been granted the same level of praise as similar films such as Call Me by Your Name . BOYS DON'T CRY (1999) There has been plenty of debate regarding cisgendered actors portraying trans characters in recent years, but it’s hard to deny that Hilary Swank gives an amazing performance as Brandon Teena in Boys Don’t Cry . The film follows Teena’s last days as he experiences romance and friendship in the lead up to a tragically violent death. The true story is heartbreaking, and the film does a great job of capturing that pain. Along with that, it goes the extra mile to show Teena’s process in transitioning from pre-op transgendered male to present masculine. The film was originally rated NC-17 in the United States, and it certainly came with a fair share of controversies, including concerns about historical accuracy; however, it’s an undeniably powerful film that, while not a happy watch, definitely leaves an impression. COWBOYS (2020) It’s hard to think of a film that was as fully overlooked at awards time as Cowboys . This quaint character piece of a man trying to support his young, transgendered son is heart wrenching. Steve Zahn gives the performance of his career, playing to his strengths and showcasing a talent that had been previously unseen for the most part. It’s an emotional coming of age film that deserves your attention. MYSTERIOUS SKIN (2004) Filmmaker Gregg Araki has become more appreciated as the years have gone by, but I don’t think it’s controversial to say Mysterious Skin is his best work as a director. The film is an adaptation of Scott Heim’s novel of the same name, which follows two young men in a small town - one is a hustler (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and the other (Brady Corbet) believes he was abducted by aliens. The film is a sickening yet beautiful portrayal of how trauma manifests itself. Araki does a spectacular job at directing certain scenes in a way that evokes the appropriate feelings of disgust while also capturing a sense of whimsy. It’s one of my favorite films, and while it’s not for everyone, it is a must-watch. EVERYBODY'S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE (2021) In terms of Pride, good luck finding a film that’s more loud and proud than Everybody’s Talking About Jamie . Based on the hit stage production of the same name, this musical follows a high schooler’s (Max Harwood) journey to becoming a drag queen. The music is an absolute blast and the film itself is visually stunning. There are a multitude of traditional high school themes and tropes, but they're all done full justice in the telling of this unique story. It’s a great example of how to properly adapt a musical and bring the energy of the stage to the screen. Good luck watching this without smiling the whole way through. GOOD MANNERS (2017) You’ve probably never heard of this Brazilian film, but Good Manners should be on the top of any queer horror film list. It’s filled with so much heart and tenderness that it’s absolutely adorable at times. Yes, a tender and adorable horror movie, but it’s hard to describe it without those words. Go into it blind, expect some sad moments and some deaths, but mostly, be prepared for a unique film experience and a creature feature like no other. KNIFE+HEART (2018) Another international film that should top queer horror lists is Knife+Heart . This film isn’t for the faint-hearted, as it follows a gay porn studio whose stars are being killed off one by one. Done in Giallo-style, Knife+Heart is a colorful treat that is more cerebral than scary, yet it nevertheless delivers. Sure, it’s explicit with its violence and sexuality, but with a premise like that, what else would you expect? G.B.F. (2013) G.B.F. is a fantastic teen comedy that had a small cult following around its release that has since dwindled somewhat. Standing for “Gay Best Friend,” the movie follows a freshly outed teen (Michael J. Willett) who is being sought after by various popular girls who feel that having a gay best friend is necessary to their popularity. There are a lot of moving parts, but it touches on friendships and self-acceptance while making you laugh the whole way through. Along with that, it shows why Pride is so necessary to make a statement and that queer identities are not there to just help people get social points or virtue signal. LUCA (2021) In early 2022, Pixar employees claimed that Disney and Pixar had cut out nearly all gay affection and explicit representation in their films, which highlighted that corporate meddling had derailed the storytellers’ attempts to be inclusive. When hearing that, one film that instantly came to mind is Luca . A film about two friends sharing the same hidden identity that could get them hurt if they went public feels like it was meant to be a queer story in many ways. Even if it wasn't, the subtext is strong enough that it can be embraced as such, especially considering the powerful final words from the grandmother. WE ARE WHO WE ARE (2020) Jack Dylan Grazer is one of the most talented up-and-coming actors in Hollywood, and his work in We Are Who We Are really puts that on full display. This miniseries certainly has its primary characters, but it’s really an ensemble piece that explores issues of love, infidelity, identity, and life. It’s a multifaceted, multi-layered series that hits on every human emotion. It can best be described as “just good vibes.” NOW APOCALYPSE (2019) Another Gregg Araki entry, Now Apocalypse highlights sexuality and self-discovery between young people through Araki’s bizarre indie film style and a neon-soaked backdrop. The characters are filled with so much life and personality that it's a shame the show was canceled after one season. Now Apocalypse is a statement that sexuality is essential to the human condition and that there are multiple ways to display it with personal zeal and agency. It’s weird, quirky, and fun. HERE COMES YOUR MAN (2021- PRESENT) Dekkoo is an up-and-coming streaming service that focuses on primarily queer content, and their original series Here Comes Your Man is one of the best things I’ve seen on the platform. It’s a truly independent show that feels as professional and well-funded as anything I’ve seen. Writer/director Omar Salas Zamora understands what he wants out of his story and absolutely delivers. While it could stand alone as a miniseries, I am looking forward to the upcoming second season. If the aforementioned Weekend catches your eye, you’ll definitely want to check out this show about a year-long, unexpected gay romance. HOLLYWOOD (2020) In another world, things like the Hays Code and Legion of Decency would have been nipped in the bud, but sadly, too many studio executives gave in to the pressure. Well, what if they didn’t? Ryan Murphy’s miniseries Hollywood reimagines the past through an alternate timeline that allows us to imagine a brave new world where individuals like Rock Hudson could be openly gay and not blackmailed via threat of being outed. It’s not a flawless show and things work out a little too well, but it's nice to imagine a world where progress started a lot earlier, begging the question: Where would we be now? EVERY DISNEY MOVIE WITH A MEMORABLE VILLAIN Admittedly, this is a bit of a hot take, but one that I am standing my ground on. See, back in the day when Hollywood was lousy with censorship due to things like the Hays Code, queer characters were left in the shadows since they couldn’t be explicitly shown on screen. As a result, to some degree of mockery, there were certain signs of a character being queer. Typically, the telltale signs were flamboyance, being unwed, and being the villain. Some are explicit, like The Little Mermaid ’s Ursula, whose look was directly inspired by drag queen Divine; meanwhile, others are a little less clear, like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs ’ Evil Queen or 101 Dalmatians ’ Cruella de Vil. Still, these specific traits are shared by so many Disney villains. Despite the original intent to villainize the queer community, many of these characters have been reclaimed by the community and are queer icons now. Disney seems to have made better, though still questionable, efforts with recent representation though, from the genderfluid aliens Pleakley and Jumba in Lilo & Stitch to Frozen ’s queer-coded ice queen Elsa. There’s more work to do, but incremental progress is still progress. Photo Credits: Photo 1 - Peccadillo Pictures; Photo 2 - Searchlight Pictures; Photo 3 - Samuel Goldwyn Films; Photo 4 - Palisades Tartan; Photo 5 - Amazon Studios; Photo 6 - Imovision; Photo 7 - Memento Films; Photo 8 - Vertical Entertainment; Photo 9, 14 Disney; Photo 10 - HBO; Photo 11 - Starz; Photo 12 - Dekkoo; Photo 13 - Netflix

LET THE RIGHT ONE IN: SEASON ONE Starring: Demián Bichir, Anika Noni Rose, Grace Gummer, Madison Taylor Baez, Ian Foreman, Jacob Buster, Kevin Carroll, and Nick Stahl Creator: Andrew Hinderaker QUENTIN Let the Right One In isn’t unwatchable, but if you’ve seen either film on which it’s based (the Swedish original or the English remake, Let Me In ), it’s entirely unnecessary. Demián Bichir gives a soulful performance as a father doing everything he can for his vampire daughter, but in stretching out the narrative to fill 10 episodes, it adds generic subplots that simply aren’t compelling. Crime procedural and medical research B-stories distract from the heart of what this series should be. Sadly, that flaw makes for a less-than-chilling slog that fails to justify itself when two tightly written movies of the same story already exist.

INVINCIBLE: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON Starring: Steven Yeun, Sandra Oh, J.K. Simmons, Gillian Jacobs, Andrew Rannells, Walton Goggins, Chris Diamantopoulos, Zazie Beetz, Kevin Michael Richardson, and Sterling K. Brown Creators: Robert Kirkman, Ryan Ottley, and Cory Walker KATIE PART ONE Invincible feels like the perfect antidote to the recent prevalence of superhero fatigue. It’s compelling and bold, with sensationally gory violence, nuanced characters, and genuine emotion driven by a voice cast that brings deeply expressive performances to underscore the provoking themes of trauma and grief. However, it unfortunately suffers as a result of the season being split, losing some momentum and rushing through several subplots that kept getting forgotten, particularly Atom Eve’s (Gillian Jacobs) familial drama and Mark’s (Steven Yeun) relationship. Despite lacking some focus, I’m excited to delve deeper into Mark’s journey in the next half of the season. PART TWO Part Two of Invincible ’s second season hits just as hard as the first, delving deeper into Mark’s journey and his internal struggle with identity and purpose, while featuring plenty of action, witty humour, and dramatic twists. Similarly to the first half of the season, some side characters and their subplots are a little underdeveloped simply because there are so many of them and not very many episodes. Nonetheless, Yeun’s performance as Mark is phenomenal, and the dynamic between Mark’s “normal” life and his responsibilities as a superhero is the beating heart of the show. QUENTIN PART ONE I don’t know what Invincible is doing. Season One was mostly made up of filler episodes, with only the premiere and finale being truly necessary to the core narrative. In Season Two: Part One, the series has leaned into that approach even more. There are just four episodes, and you only need Episode Four for Mark’s (Steven Yeun) story. Between the voice cast, vibrant Saturday Morning Cartoon animation, and interesting storyline of Mark coming to terms with his heritage, there is so much potential here, but the writers seem content focusing on poorly developed subplots. Guys, the show is called Invincible . Let’s focus on his story… PART TWO To its credit, Part Two of Invincible ’s second season does focus a bit more on Mark’s story; however, not so much that it has retained me as a viewer. I’m officially done with this series. The only storyline I care about revolves around Mark and the Viltrumites, but the writers keep tripping over themselves to give me side stories about the Guardians, Mark’s girlfriend, and other frustratingly wheel-spinning dalliances. Interestingly, this is a Robert Kirkman series. The Walking Dead – a show I hate-watched for several seasons before giving up – also was a Kirkman series. They have the same “sprawl” issues. I’m not falling for it again. AMARÚ PART ONE Invincible continues to be one of the best comic book adaptations out today because it takes both its comic and grounded aspects seriously. There is fun and action and gore and tropes, but that never gets in the way of telling authentic stories to which people can connect. Season Two: Part One tackles themes of grief, guilt, and responsibility through multiple storylines, but still keeps its sights on Mark Grayson’s (Steven Yeun) main journey. This is all uplifted by a tremendous voice cast who brings every emotion to life in this true comic series. PART TWO Part Two of Invincible ’s second season gives Part One’s disparate-yet-entertaining aspects a focused and intriguing finish. Yes, you might be here for the title character, but I greatly appreciate how much purpose the writers give to every side character. Only having eight episodes does make the parallel plots feel slightly thin, but this second half does an amazing job of pointing themes of grief, trauma, and personal choice all towards Mark’s direction. As brutal, funny, and self-aware as ever, the totality of Invincible : Season Two continues to buck whatever superhero fatigue y’all are talking about. PAIGE PART ONE Although the first four episodes of Invincible ‘s second season are packed with action, drama, and violence, not to mention being a solid continuation of the stellar first season, the overall structure of these episodes doesn’t pack a big enough punch storywise. Following a rocky start, it eventually finds its footing with a shocking reveal in the mid-season finale, but it takes too long to get what we were all longing for. With that said, this series is still as bold as they come, and it remains one of the better superhero shows on TV. PART TWO While the last few episodes feel a little rushed, there is no denying that the second half of Invincible ‘s second season is far more engaging than the first. The latest batch of episodes contain some of the most compelling character development of the entire series, and they do a fantastic job of balancing action with subdued, heartfelt exchanges between the show's numerous characters. For me, though, the most intriguing aspect of this season is Mark’s (Steven Yeun), aka Invincible’s, internal struggle throughout this coming-of-age comic book tale.

Previous Next September 27, 2024 WRITTEN BY: PRESTON It’s that time of the year again! Football is back, and if you are anything like me, your team has already disappointed you, your fantasy teams have fallen apart, and you are overwhelmed with a confusing mix of let down and ever-hopeful excitement. That aside, this football season’s weekly schedule typically features a Thursday night game, a Friday night game, Saturday College football, Sunday NFL football, and Monday Night Football! What the hell are we supposed to do Tuesday and Wednesday nights?! Why not turn to Hollywood? Football movies have been around since at least 1921’s silent film Two Minutes to Go . Although that film is now considered a “lost film,” many football movies have stood the test of time, with the same few always seeming to top lists of great gridiron movies. Any Given Sunday comes to mind, but I came to that film too late in life, and, honestly, the fictional teams throw me off. Heaven Can Wait , Varsity Blues (whipped-cream bikini, anyone? I mean…*ahem* football, yay!), Gridiron Gang , Invincible , The Longest Yard , and, yes, even Little Giants all hold a special place in my heart. However, this list includes the films I return to again and again. When you’re missing the live, on-the-field action, watching one of these amazingly fantastic football films can get you through. Plus, they are probably cheaper than the astronomical costs we are forced to pay to watch the entirety of games available through a multitude of subscription services. Shit, I thought golf was expensive! But I digress… So, let’s kick this off (pun intended)! Whether you are a football fiend that needs to fill out your week, or you’re just looking for a great sports film to watch, here are seven excellent football films — one for each and every day of your week: THE BLIND SIDE* (2009) Let’s throw this one on Monday due to its Monday-like problems. The Blind Side has an unfortunate asterisk on its title due to the familial strife caused by the story and its controversial portrayal of Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron). Oher took legal action to end the Tuohy’s (Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw) conservatorship, to be paid fair payment from film profits, and, ultimately, to end their relationship. It’s a tough end to a beautiful story that, admittedly, took creative liberties on an individual that had obviously not fully bought in on the process. The film isn’t perfect, but even with its real-life shortcomings, it still tells a compelling (if not calculably safe) feel-good tale. My favorite part is the inclusion of college football coach cameos in their hope to recruit Oher. As a Tennessee fan, I also appreciated the disdain for the college, if not my interpretation of revered respect, and the mention of the “body farm.” I can’t help it, guys… I just like it. REMEMBER THE TITANS (2000) Tuesday is still a setup day for the week, and a good day to grab inspiration as you look ahead to what’s coming. Remember the Titans is a great way to get that inspiration. Also, is it any wonder that a football film featuring Denzel Washington and Ryan Gosling would make my list?! Ya’ll knew better. In any case, while their contributions are always appreciated, it is the intense inspirational story that really captivates me. The film is loosely based on the true story of coach Herman Boone (Washington), when an all-black high school is integrated with an all-white school. Two football teams, both having presumed starters, must deal with the implications of this coalescence, both within the school and within the hostile environment surrounding them in 1971 Virginia. Washington is uncompromising, acting as the patient, moral light that we can all look to for inspiration, while Will Patton (Coach Bill Yoast) and Hayden Panettiere (Sheryl Yoast) also shine. Titans is a football film that hits all the feels within the context of social turmoil and one of the greatest sports on earth. RUDY (1993) Now, it’s “hump day,” where the load either feels lightened as we look to the weekend, or it feels heavier than ever as the week begins to crush us. However, the only thing that will be getting crushed is our goals because we’re getting some crazy inspiration from our boy, Rudy (Sean Astin). Rudy is simply the best football movie that has ever been made. It is a biographical sports film based on the grit and determination of Daniel Eugene “Rudy” Ruettiger, and it has consistently ranked as one of the best sports movies of all time and as one of the most inspiring films, period. When I think of cheesy films that will convince me to get off my ass and do whatever it is I’m procrastinating on, I know Rocky or Rudy will do the trick (Please, don’t tell my wife, or else these might be playing in the living room 24/7). The thing that makes the film so great is that you don’t even need to be a football fan to be truly inspired by Rudy’s actions. Side note: the film oddly does not mention that Rudy served four years in the U.S. Navy prior to his battle to join the Notre Dame football team. What a badass! DRAFT DAY (2014) The NFL draft usually starts on a Thursday at the end of April, so Draft Day is an appropriate film for the day. Maybe you aren’t thrilled about the Thursday night game, or you just need something to amp you up before or after kickoff. Either way, Draft Day is probably my third favorite film on this list. It has its problems, sure: Kevin Costner is his usual stoic self (it just happens to play here), the tension is diminished because of its predictability, and its cliché delivery drives it well-below similar films like Moneyball . However, if you can relate to the difficulties the Browns have experienced (*cough* Falcons *cough*), you are a football fan, and you are interested in the draft process — check, check, and check — you will love this semi-puff NFL piece. I’ve watched this movie so many times, mostly when I start to miss football in the off-season and especially prior to the draft, because it just works. Plus, you know you can trust a film directed by Ivan Reitman, a man that used Arnold Schwarzenegger as his comedic leading man three times, even if one of those films was Junior … FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (2004) For Friday? Duh. Full disclosure, I lived in the small town of Roscoe, Texas, when I was young, and the high school football team there is the Roscoe Plowboys. They are beloved by their hometown fans. So, I speak from experience when I say Friday Night Lights ‘ story of an Odessa, Texas, high school football team facing the pressure and prestige placed upon their players is a fantastic reflection of reality. It feels so real because it is based on the non-fiction book Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream , written by H.G. Bissinger. I’ll say it again and again: the best Hollywood stories are based on reality, and Friday Night Lights is no exception, especially with Billy Bob Thornton giving one of the best locker room speeches ever as Coach Gary Gaines. THE WATERBOY (1998) Saturday is for relaxing, college ball, and, unfortunately, yard work (stay with me). Recently, my brother-in-law and I went halfsies on a John Deere lawn mowing tractor. He lives about half a mile from my house, so when I need to mow, I drive down to his house in my truck, drive the tractor back down the road to my house, mow the lawn, and then reverse course. Every single time, I feel like Bobby Boucher (Adam Sandler), waving to my country neighbors on the way. Outside of Billy Madison , The Waterboy is about the most Sandler film that has ever been made, for better or worse. I, for one, think it is for the better. All the usual suspects accompany Sandler, alongside a tremendous Kathy Bates, playing Mama Boucher with light-hearted brilliance. Say what you will, but this film is an amusing and fun ride that is still distinguished by being the highest-grossing sports comedy of all time. JERRY MAGUIRE (1996) It really should come as no surprise that Jerry Maguire has made it to another one of my feature articles (READ: “roMANce: A Dude’s Guide to Valentine’s Day” HERE ) as it is simply one of the best, all-around films ever made. Jerry Maguire (Tom Cruise) is a sports agent for Rod Tidwell (Cuba Gooding Jr.), a wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, which is about all the football you get here. There probably is little need for background on the story since we have all seen it. Plus, I have never heard one person say they didn’t like it. Directed by Cameron Crowe, the extremely quotable film may be light on the sport at hand, but there is enough to put it up there as one of my favorite football films of all time. Here is why it’s a sneaky good pick for Sunday, though… Maybe all the football throughout the week isn’t making your significant other too happy? I can’t imagine why, but still… Following the early game (after your team wins, hopefully), it might be good to curl up on the couch with your special someone and reconnect. They’ll hardly notice the football included, and it might just prepare you two for another great week.