Reviews

Dialogue heavy, raw and powerful in every way; "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" is everything you'd expect from an August Wilson adaption with scorching performances from Viola Davis and the late, great Chadwick Boseman.

In this drama set in 1927 Chicago, tensions rise between Ma Rainey, her horn player and the white management determined to control the uncontrollable "Mother of the Blues". Based on the play by August Wilson.

The magic of "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" is how everything comes together. The characters, the music, the relevancy and the beauty of it. In a little over 90-minutes, so much happens and so much is said, you may need to view it a second time. The dialogue is key here; every word uttered by the characters are educational and deep. The fact that Ma Rainey was crowned "Mother of the Blues" and was making the record label tons of money and they still had her and her band record in some dingy prison cell-like studio is appalling. This film is so important but also so sad. The performances are some of the best of the year; Viola Davis is magnificent and majestic. Glynn Turman and Colman Domingo are terrific and vibrant in their respective supporting roles. Of course without Chadwick Boseman this film wouldn't be the same. Boseman carries this drama with so much fire, so much talent it's hard to turn away from the screen. He was incredible force and it really shows here in his final screen role. Between "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" and "Da Five Bloods", Boseman is deserving of his Oscar praise and I think his family will take one home posthumously for one of those films. A brilliant and vibrant drama that is among the best films of 2020.

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Charming, glitzy and filled with heart; "The Prom" will have fans of musicals in the palm of its jazz hands.

In this musical comedy, a troupe of hilariously self-obsessed theater stars swarm into a small conservative Indiana town in support of a high school girl who wants to take her girlfriend to the prom.

OK, yes, "The Prom" is cheesy af BUT it's entertaining and filled with great performances and musical numbers. Jo Ellen Pellman delivers a break out debut performance that will leave you inspired and feeling good. Streep, Kidman and even James Corden are respectively grand in their roles. Along with Pellman, Andrew Rannells delivers the next great performance, with his scenes literally jumping off the screen. I believe what filmmaker Ryan Murphy is trying to do in this day and age is give us stories with underdog characters that we can all relate to, and it works. Murphy is one of the hardest working people in the business and with "The Prom", you're sure to have a good time.

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Gripping, finely acted but slow paced; "I'm Your Woman" pays off but struggles to find its groove which may frustrate viewers.

In this crime drama set in the 1970s, a woman is forced to go on the run after her husband betrays his partners, sending her and her baby on a dangerous journey.

Rachel Brosnahan continues to prove herself as one of the industry's leading actresses. It's so great to see her in a dramatic role and I can't wait to see what other roles she takes on. Regarding the film itself, it's a massive slow burn but "I'm Your Woman" is about 30-minutes too long. Not all viewers will be on board for this ride. It's aesthetically pleasing and looks real good but you do expect more punch throughout even though the final pay off is well worth it. Overall a decent drama and I do look forward to seeing what filmmaker Julia Hart does going forward.

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Beautiful, poignant and electric; "The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend A Broken Heart" is the music doc of the year and one that resonates so deeply beyond the music.

In this documentary, explore the history of the Bee Gees, featuring revealing interviews with oldest brother Barry Gibb, and archival interviews with the late twin brothers Robin and Maurice.

Profoundly effective in its storytelling through the music, this doc doesn't cheapen the hardships and circumstances that come with being a family band. Filmmaker Frank Marshall beautifully curates this story through interviews and never before seen footage. The scenes that take place in the studio are some of the most unforgettable moments in music history. This doc will make your parents relive memories with the popular band but it'll also take younger viewers on a trip they won't soon forget. An honest and heart-wrenching look at one of the greatest bands and songwriters in history.

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Forgettable, humourless and a total bore; "Superintelligence" is far from being super or intelligent.

In this comedy, a former corporate executive, has her unfulfilled life turned upside down when she is selected for observation by an artificial intelligence that may or may not take over the world.

If you've been following me for a while now, you know how much I love Melissa McCarthy... NOT! This is yet another failed attempt at a comedy while trying to add some sci-fi flare to it. In yet another failed collaboration with with her husband, director Ben Falcone, McCarthy tries so hard to be funny by pulling off antics you've seen her do again and again. Why do you put yourself through this, Snob? Well, I had a little faith cause Bobby Cannavale was in the supporting role and honestly he's the only decent thing about "Superintelligence". Bryan Tyree Henry is also pretty good in a small role. In all seriousness can you imagine an AI system being voiced by James Corden 24/7? Kill me. A total waste of time, don't put yourself through it.

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Inspiring, entertaining and funny as heck; "Rose Island" showcases an anarchistic story that more people should know about.

In this comedy based on a true story, an engineer builds his own island off the Italian coast and declares it a nation, drawing the world's attention in the 1960s.

Sharply written with a strong message at hand, "Rose Island" exceeded my expectations and is one of the better films now streaming on Netflix. Solid performances from the cast and a soundtrack that is so killer, you'll be grooving while sitting on your couch. I do believe that more people need to know this story, especially that it's the only story of its kind EVER. Heartfelt, witty and smart this is a great film.

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Gloomy, character driven but frustrating at times; "The Nest" sets the tone for a conceptual film but leaves you asking too many questions.

In this drama, life for an entrepreneur and his family begins to take a twisted turn after moving into a country manor in England.

"The Nest" is carried by its two lead performers who are incredible. Jude Law gives one of his most vulnerable and raw performances. Carrie Coon is wickedly good and would love to see her in more roles like this. The film becomes exhausting at a point but the overall atmosphere is intriguing and keeps you going throughout. If it wasn't for the aforementioned and performances, I don't think "The Nest" would amount to much.

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Magnificent, masterful and memorable; "Mank" showcases Hollywood's golden era in what feels like a feverish dream and adds another extraordinary film to David Fincher's repertoire.

In this drama, 1930's Hollywood is reevaluated through the eyes of social critic and alcoholic screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz as he races to finish the screenplay of "Citizen Kane".

It's hard to find the words to express how "Mank" really makes you feel; an alcohol-induced and cigarette smoking period piece that expertly captures the time, the place and the people of Hollywood in the 1930s-40s. Written by Fincher's father, Jack, prior to his death in 2003, "Mank" brings old Hollywood to life and focuses on these real-life characters perfectly. The script itself is outstanding. Anyone who's ever been interested in the golden age of Hollywood will have a field day with all the characters seen or mentioned in this film. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross' score is pitch-perfect and jazzy for the period. Name me a better sounding score this year; I'll wait. Fincher's attention to detail is what drove me over the edge, in the sense that everything is researched and so authentic. Shot in glorious black and white and did I mention the sound? It's like you're watching a film of that era. The mono sound is an incredibly nice touch by Fincher and so are the cigarette burns in the editing. The performances are some of this years best. Gary Oldman is a firecracker and breathes, walks and talks like Herman Mankiewicz. Are we even surprised that Oldman can embody any character on screen? No. Amanda Seyfried is so elegant and majestic as Marion Davies. The starlet delivers one of the best supporting roles of 2020. A special mention goes to Charles Dance as William Randolph Hearst, who delivers an impeccable performance. "Mank" is without a doubt one of the years best and most beautifully shot films and it's a film that will become a classic in its own right. This is a movie lovers dream.

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Bloody fun and often hilarious; "Freaky" is the rare instance that comedy and horror can come together and take you a wild ride.

In the slasher-comedy, after swapping bodies with a serial killer, a young girl in high school discovers she has less than 24 hours before the change becomes permanent.

Featuring an A+ performance from Vince Vaughn, "Freaky" is a non-stop violent and funny flick that kept me entertained for nearly two hours. It's definitely predictable and not perfect but this is the perfect film to stream on a weekend with pizza. I had a great time and seriously wanted more. Kathryn Newton is also really good and looking forward to seeing in upcoming roles. A gender-bending twist on "Freaky Friday", the film will leave you satisfied and is definitely worth... the stab.

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Incredibly touching, well written and acted; "Uncle Frank" continues to prove writer/director Alan Ball's capability to tackle family drama unlike anyone else.

In this comedy-drama set in the 1970s, a gay man who hasn't come out to his family, takes a a road trip with his niece from Manhattan to South Carolina due to a family tragedy.

This is one of those films where everything works and has the power to make you feel different emotions. The performances are top notch; Paul Bettany is brilliant, Sophia Lillies is sensational but Peter Macdissi was the star of "Uncle Frank". An award worthy role that embodies empathy and is the stand out character in this film. The soundtrack is really spot on for the era as well. Alan Ball's writing has never been better and his directing continues to improve with each of his films. I absolutely loved this film.

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Unable to really capture its essence and time and sometimes too dull to convey; "Dreamland" is far from being a dream even when you've got Margot Robbie at the forefront.

In this romantic crime drama, A young man helps a fugitive bank robber hiding in his small town during the Great Depression.

The real issue I had with "Dreamland" was that the filmmakers really didn't capture the time period it's set in. It's a wannabe "Bonnie & Clyde" that never lives up to its full potential. I thought Finn Cole was a dreadful lead but Robbie, like in her other roles, was fantastic. She's able to make you get lost in her performance and she continues to be one of my favourite actresses right now. It's a decent enough film to let 90-minutes stroll by, but after it's done you won't think much of it.

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While not on par with its predecessor; "The Christmas Chronicles 2" tries hard to recreate the magic it once had by using a pair of perfect leads.

In this holiday film, Kate Pierce is unexpectedly reunited with Santa Claus when a mysterious troublemaker threatens to cancel Christmas forever.

There's no doubt that younger viewers will absolutely love this sequel but for an older crowd, "The Christmas Chronicles 2" doesn't offer up anything new. Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn are terrifically cast and try hard to power through this sequel, but it's not enough to save it. That being said, this isn't the follow-up I anticipated from a holiday franchise that had potential.

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Tension filled, well acted and gritty; "Let Him Go" is the definition of a slow burn with a satisfying pay off.

In this drama, a retired sheriff and his wife, grieving over the death of their son, set out to find their grandson who has been taken away without reason.

My one issue with "Let Him Go" was that it may have been too much a slow burn. It could've been a little shorter and I think that would've worked better. Aside from that, Kevin Costner and Diane Lane are incredible. They both deliver intense performances, some of their best in years. Lesley Manville is twisted and delivers a commanding role. Aside from the pace, "Let Him Go" is well shot and overall intriguing with a third act that will knock your socks off.

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Fresh, sweet and a feel-good flick; "Happiest Season"will make you laugh, cry and pull at your heartstrings.

In this holiday romantic comedy, a woman struggles to come out to her conservative family during the holidays.

An honest and timely look at what the LGBTQ community must go through in order to gain acceptance. Sure this little holiday flick has clichés but it's heart is in the right place and will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. The entire cast is terrific and their synergy flows throughout the film. A special shout-out to Canadian Dan Levy and his hilarious performance that steals the show. Overall, "Happiest Season" delivers a solid holiday themed rom-com that is original, funny and and sweet. A great watch.

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Suspenseful, twisted and nerve-rattling; "Run" is filled with tons of WTF moments that will keep you guessing until the very end.

In this thriller, a homeschooled teenager begins to suspect her mother is keeping a dark secret from her.

Lead by a terrifying performance from Sarah Paulson, "Run" just goes to show that Paulson can tackle any role given to her. Kiera Allen is respectively terrific and will become a big name. You can tell that this film is heavily inspired by films from the past like "Mommie Dearest" and "Misery" for example. The 90-minute run time is perfect and the film flows at a fast pace, making "Run" a non-stop nail-bitting thriller that will have you howling at the screen.

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Heartwarming, inspiring and non-stop fun; #JingleJangleAChristmasJourney is a thoroughly original Christmas film that will become a classic.

In this holiday film, an eccentric toymaker, his adventurous granddaughter, and a magical invention may have the power to change their lives forever.

Featuring sensational and elaborate music numbers and catchy songs, "Jingle Jangle" delivers fun holiday cheer with a stellar cast and a deeply personal message. A film filled with relatable messages and that is altogether original with fun characters. A Special mention goes to Keegan Michael-Key, who plays a great villain. Netflix has really done well work this film and I foresee it becoming a new holiday classic.

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Beautifully told, relatable, but a tad too melodramatic; "Hillbilly Elegy" is good but never does justice to its source material.

In this drama based on the bestselling memoir, a law student is forced to return to his hometown after a family emergency.

Director Ron Howard does a fine job at telling an American story with poise and dignity, but the what's holding "Hillbilly Elegy" down is its weak script. Thankfully the cast is top notch; Amy Adams is terrific and Glenn Close delivers a fiery and fierce performance. The true stars of this drama are Gabriel Basso and Owen Asztalos, who really embody J.D. Vance. I don't think the film deserves the negative feedback it's been getting. It's not the great film it should be but overall, "Hillbilly Elegy" can still make you feel some sort of way.

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Pulpy, well written and edgy; "Fatman" is destined to become a holiday cult classic.

In this dark comedy/thriller, an unorthodox Santa Claus is fighting to save his declining business. Meanwhile, a neglected and precocious 12 year old, hires a hit man to kill Santa after receiving a lump of coal in his stocking.

This film sounds ludicrous but really delivers the goods. Mel Gibson is so great, so badass it's hard to turn off your screen. Walton Goggins is as terrific as ever, always playing a twisted villain. This is the perfect B-movie with the most insane twists and tons of blood... perfect for the holidays (LOL). The humour is on point and the story is original. The hypeman and I both recommend "Fatman".

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Engrossing and nail-bitting; "Greenland" is surprisingly entertaining and makes a huge impact (pun intended).

In this disaster film, a family fights for survival as a planet-killing comet races to Earth.

If you think this is just another disaster flick, think again. "Greenland" keeps the tension rising scene after scene and features a really good performance from Gerard Butler. Some of the scenes even feel like you're watching a zombie film and makes you want to yell at your screen. Of course the film has some blockbuster clichés but all around it's a great time and I promise you won't be disappointed.

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Gritty, captivating and well acted; "Jungleland"oversees conventional flaws and brings character to the screen.

In this drama, two brothers try to escape their circumstances by travelling across the country for a boxing match that becomes a fight for their lives.

A real treat for those into a solid sports and crime drama; "Jungleland" is a surprisingly decent character study with Charlie Hunnam at the forefront of the stellar performances. Director Max Winkler captures a dark and raw essence throughout with an ending you'll never see coming. A thoroughly satisfying drama.

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Powerful, beautiful and an emotional knockout; "The Life Ahead" proves that talent can rise above a basic storyline and that Sophia Loren delivers without a doubt the best performance of the year.

In this drama, a Holocaust survivor with a daycare business takes in a young kid from the street who recently robbed her.

After retiring from acting in 2009, Loren makes a beautiful comeback in "The Life Ahead", directed by her son, Edoardo Ponti. After seeing this drama, you can't help but think how difficult it must be to make a film like this with your mother in it. The set must've been an emotional rollercoaster. The story itself is basic but thankfully Loren's performance has you locked in for the entire film. Gorgeously shot and emotionally resonant throughout, "The Life Ahead" will tear at your heartstrings and trust me, you'll need the Kleenex box next to you. Loren delivers hands down the best performance of the year and at 86 years old, let's hope she becomes the actress to sweep awards season. Stream it now on Netflix.

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Immensely disturbing, shocking and provocative; "Possessor" takes you on a wild ride while playing with your mind.

In this science-fiction horror film, an agent working for a secretive organization uses brain-implant technology to inhabit other people's bodies, driving them to commit assassinations for high-paying clients.

It goes without saying that Cronenberg is heavily influenced by the earlier films his father made but I also couldn't help but think of John Frankenheimer's "Seconds"while watching this. You can see where Cronenberg wants to play with sci-fi, horror and even reality. It's a daring vision and one you won't soon forget (if you have the stomach for it). Christopher Abbott is haunting in the lead role and Andrea Riseborough delivers a solidly chilling performance. It's a scary-ass film and I'm telling you there are visuals in "Possessor" that will haunt you for days, but I recommend you see it.

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Intriguing yet predictable and way too long; "This World Won't Break" tests your attention span and leaves you feeling drained.

In this drama, a broke-down middle aged Texas troubadour yearns to be remembered like the southern bluesmen before him, but his failings and self-doubt forestall his musical dreams.

A part of me is conflicted because "This World Won't Break" has a beautiful story surrounding it but it's muddled by a few moments of melodrama, as well as being 45 minutes too long. Another positive point about this indie is the soundtrack; it's bluesy, country and a highlight of the film. The performances are decent as well. Overall, worth a watch to take a break from worse films out there, but it will acquire some patience to get through.

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Heartfelt and sometimes funny; "From The Vine" finds Joe Pantoliano in fine form but it's premise leaves you thirsty for more.

In this comedy-drama, a man with an ethical crisis travels back to his hometown in rural Italy to revive his grandfather's vineyard.

An overall cute family dramedy, but "From The Vine" doesn't always hit the mark you'd expect. Although Pantoliano really shines in this role, he is seemingly loveable and always manages to put a smile on your face. Beautiful landscapes and what seems to be savoury wine, this film will make you thirsty but will leave you wanting more out of the characters and storyline.

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Inspiring, electric and beautifully shot; "Letter To You" takes you deep into Springsteen's thoughts and musical process.

In this documentary, go behind-the-scenes and look at Springsteen's creative process with full performances from The E Street Band, in-studio footage, and never-before-seen material.

The legendary Bruce Springsteen bares his soul in this reflective and intimate look at the making of his new album with the E Street Band. Frequent collaborator and filmmaker Thom Zimny does yet again an excellent job at capturing the essence of the band but also exploring Springsteen's thoughts. The new album is one of the band's best and this doc is beautifully made and worth the watch.

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