REVIEW: CRAZY RICH ASIANS

4/5

Crazy, Smart, Love.

121 Mins. Starring: Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Gemma Chan, Awkwafina, Nico Santos, Lisa Lu, Jimmy O. Yang, Harry Shum Jr., Sonoya Mizuno, Chris Pang, Ken Jeong & Michelle Yeoh. Director: Jon M. Chu.

Golding...Henry Golding. Look through the scope down the barrel. As rumors are spiralling that the presenter of BBC's 'The Travel Show', Henry Golding on the trip of his life has more than a shot at walking away with the iconic, stop and shoot 007 intro no matter whose blood runs cold. Remember didn't 'Luther' himself Idris Elba say no already (although we think he's just being a typical great British gentleman and waiting until Daniel Craig's had his last shake of the Martini before he stirs the pot). So it looks like the suit and sidearm of James Bond doesn't belong to a white man, or a black man. But an Asian one. Crazy, huh? No! As all you need to do is read all about a recent American GQ feature on this Malaysian new money actor shopping for watches on Hollywood boulevard to see that his man who speaks with a British tongue has the accented debonair flair to play the most refreshingly inspired role call of Ian Fleming's incarnation yet. Despite the fact that the man of the moment who is also playing Blake Lively's husband (sorry Ryan) in the new movie also out this month in 'A Simple Favor' with Anna Kendrick is facing cultural controversy over his casting in this movie 'Crazy Rich Asians' set between the stunning skyscrapers of Singapore. A Chinese city that looks like neighbours Hong Kong played a hand of cards in a casino with the United Arab Emirates of Dubai. But what's the problem? Trolls shouldn't reach for their keys like this was the 'Iron Fist', or how they unfairly took hits off 'Star Wars-The Last Jedi' new star Kelly Marie Tran. Because after all isn't this movie about educating acceptance without boundaries or borders? No matter the limits placed on or by family or money. For the culture this is not appropriation, but celebration. So lets not close off this experience to anyone for the coronation of the wedding of the year (sorry Harry, but they say this guys more like Prince William) and the celebration of the first all-Asian Hollywood film in a quarter of a century in 'Crazy Rich Asians'. 25 years after the crazy, stupid love of 'The Joy Luck Club' starring 'Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D.' and 'E.R.' actress Ming Na-Wen. It seems about the right time for the first Bond to not just be blonde hair and blue eyes, but any color, creed, or culture. And a cavalier Henry (no Cavill like Superman) could be the man to watch like the wrist gadget under his suit sleeve. Because here the charming and disarming Golding is the gold standard of this gaudy glamorous glitz. As 'Crazy Rich Asians' is about to take over the world like those K-Pop megastar idol, BTS boys in South Korea. Whose 'Love Yourself' messages are exactly what that country and the watching world needs right now with everything they and we have been through as a whole.

But the one constant in this 'Crazy Rich' movie is Constance Wu. The 'Fresh Off The Boat' actress. She is the star of this rom-com like the bridesmaid who will be bride, but in her own story where the princess saves herself. Swept off her Cinderella slippers or not. Because this romantic dramedy has more than a heart of glass. The weight of gold isn't just in wedding favors for the rich and privileged, but in the actual truth to the vow that bands round your ring finger. And Wu to the letter means every word. And in her career defining moment in this defintive, cultural touchstone of a movie she walks from the aisle to down the red carpet for everyone before her and after to show no woman like her will be left at the altar ever again. And in 'Now You See Me 2' director Jon M. Chu's stepped up direction in matrimony with Kevin Kwan's novel bestseller (a trilogy of 'China Rich Girlfriends' and 'Rich People Problems' anyone?) this legacy making movie has it's own legend who broke Hollywood before doors were opened for her. From James Bond himself, to where no man has boldly gone before in Star Trek. And with this discovery the time defying Michelle Yeoh shows us tomorrow never dies, as the 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' legend really steps out of the shadows that Hollywood tried to hide with furious fire. An actress who leaves an indelible impression on you that you won't soon forget, even if you've only met her on screens a handful of times. Her mothering character disapproving of her sons engagement with a New Yorker is far from a villain, despite some money made manipulatory tactics that verge on the vile, or at the very least the vindictive. But like any one managing those under her, she too has someone to answer to. And this is in the form of 'Joy Luck' and 'Dangerous Liasions' icon Lisa Lu on grand form. Yeoh's mother may seem overpowering, but really it's merely protective. Her love domineering, but in essence unconditional. And the legend of Chinese cinema handles all of this with the class and dignity her whole career has afforded from H.K. dollars to U.S. bills. The actress who crossed continents with her good friend Chan's character husband is not revealed here. Pointedly away on business he doesn't need to be either. But we kind of cameo hoped it would fittingly be Jackie. Maybe in some hidden way it is.

And in some 20 years since Chan's 'Rush Hour' with Chris Tucker became the first major Hollywood blockbuster with an Asian and black lead together, side by side. We finally see some Asian Hollywood stars, male and female with leading sex symbol status next to all the Gosling's and Stone's of La La Hollywoodland. Two decades after that landmark trilogy beginning showed two strong and skilled characters, albeit bumbling comic-relief ones with little in the way of love, despite the heart of the soul of their friendship. Stereotype and stigma cancelled. There's funny here. From 'Silicon Valley' next gen comedian and 'Patriots Day' hero Jimmy O. Yang in Alan from 'The Hangover' maddening mode. To a legend of that 'Community' himself, Ken Jeong for all your HA! gifs. And who could forget comedienne and hip-hop star Awkwafina herself? Whose so good she has her own one name like Beyonce after stealing the show and pot in the girl power heist of this years 'Ocean 8'. Here she's one more film away from being Asia's answer to Melissa McCarthy or Tiffany Haddish (now that sounds like a big three movie). But by grace there's beauty and brains here, like iconic 'Humans', 'Sherlock' and forthcoming 'Captain Marvel' actress Gemma Chan and the grown 'Glee' of Harry Shum Jr. Not to mention the actual marrying kind in question, 'Ex Machina' and 'Annihilation' actress Sonoya Mizuno and Australian actor Chris Pang coupling up in this honoured, whose who roll call. But it's the NBC 'Superstore' employee Nico Santos who steals the show with sass and swag to the P of Golding's Golden State Warrior like character name, Nick Young. And all in this epic ensemble, flipping the script on even that very Hollywood cliche, this wedding date truly is a game changer as the movie industry will never be the same again. Forget a movie world where the legendary Ken Watanabe plays a Chinese or Korean man when he is actually Japanese. Or when Mexican characters in films are stereotypically only called by names like Jose, Miguel or Rodriguez. 'Crazy Rich Asians' celebrates the love of their culture and originality like 'Love Simon' does individual sexuality without making a big deal about it like everyone else in the Hollywood watching world does, including us. All set to a sensational, Spotify playlist ready soundtrack of Chinese covers of your favourite records. There's a hallmark romantic comedy moment in this movie that takes it from a 3 star movie to a 4 star one that redefines it and in that instant becomes more important than everything else in this tough loving, rough and smooth world we try to forget or at least ignore when the lights go down. But you can't deny the satisfaction at a Trump time like this of the number one and two movies in the U.S. box office being this and the true story of a black police officer infiltrating the Klu Klux Klan by pretending to be a white supremacist in Spike Lee's incendiary and influential 'BlackKklansman'. Build a wall around that Donald! Call me crazy but this movie is rich with more than the gold of money. Family blood in or out is the real wealth and that kindness its currency. And to that end you are all invited to 'My Big, Crazy Asian Wedding'. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding', 'The Joy Luck Club', 'A Simple Favor'.

REVIEW: THE PREDATOR

3.5/5

Fear The Walking Dread.

107 Mins. Starring: Boyd Holbrook, Trevante Rhodes, Olivia Munn, Jacob Tremblay, Keegan-Michael Key, Thomas Jane, Alfie Allen, Augusto Aguilera, Jake Busey, Yvonne Strahovski & Sterling K. Brown. Director: Shane Black.

"F### yeah"! Sterling K.B. 'This Is Us' this is not! This is 'The Predator'. Dread the locks. And lord have mercy on these mercenaries. Because it's going to take an army to take down this alien. Like the marvel of an undercover, former member of the 'Black Panther' revolution tribe, a Reaver hired to track Logan's Wolverine, the actual M.F. Punisher, the purple precognitive power of Psylocke, a man who survived 'Game Of Thrones' without his d### and a guy who looks like he could bench press Arnold Schwarzenegger by 'Moonlight'. All lead in direction by one of the original 'Predator' mercs with a mouth. Not to lions, tigers and bears, oh my mention Gary Busey's kid doing his pops legacy proud. Should you be worried? "Probably"! They are all infrared marked for dead. Even the crazy Jordan Peele 'Get Out' clause of comedic partner Keegan-Michael Key. This substitute teacher has his own moviemaking career locked down, right Timofey? YEAH! But unlike Baxley's mum this isn't rated 'E' for everyone. More like 'R' for Really f###### gory and more foul mouthed than the stench of those this king of the forest leaves in its pine box wake. This 80's retro special all the way down to the homaged trailer voice-over may take you back to the nostalgia of your collective youth. But it's damn sure not for kids. Even if it does make 'Room' for the 'Wonder' of Jacob Tremblay. Not to forget the birth of 'Handmaids Tale' star Yvonne Strahovski. Almost completely unrelated, when Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel turned television series first hit published shelves, the original 'Predator' that would be released in theatres two years later was picked up by the same 20th Century Fox we now see in iconic infrared. The same film that Carl Weathers gave an arm for (the same limb he had that bicep, greased up dap close-up with Arnie's arm) like Marvel phase two and Jean Claude Damme's original motion captured Predator body couldn't give a damn for turned Arnold Schwarzenegger into a Hollywood movie megastar. Alongside that android that told us he'd return (a science fiction double act that did for Arnie what the twin fighters of 'Rambo' and 'Rocky' did for Sly). And after going against this Terminator from out of space that doesn't come from out your chest, but is more than willing to make a hat out of your ribcage, 'Lethal Weapon's' Danny Glover showed he wasn't too old for this s### against a real deadly energy gun in the riot of a uzi ton weighing, gangland riddled Los Angeles set sequel. And who could forget how much 'Pianist' Adrian Brody beefed up for the 'Predators' reboot that put him in the scope of the triangular, three red dots on his forehead (not the actual 97 dots we saw in the tease of a trailer)? Because it's easy to when it comes to the venting of those video game like 'AvP', 'Alien' mash-ups. But now with what's set to cause more confusion ordering than all those 'Fast and Furious' DVDs we have the best Predator since the time Arnold roared from the mud of the jungle and got to the chopper. You know we can't resist a reference either.

But just because it bleeds. Doesn't mean you can kill it. Because this Predator is bigger, better and has even brought his dogs with him. And you thought you wouldn't want to play fetch with those demi-mutts no matter how cool they looked? Well 'Stranger Things' have happened. And this sports hunter sounds, looks and IS cooler. No matter how ugly you think he is cloaked under all that Lil' Wayne hair. But still when it comes to the Marley's nothing hair close tops or imitates the original, iconic Predator (the reason the first movie like the original 'Alien' worked so well before CGI is because you barely saw the suggestive horrors of these terrifying creatures in claustraphobic confines, stalking their human prey, for both cost cutting and mood setting reasons) and of course the real heart of this operation...an A team of mercs. Who we only wish had to camera closing credit sign-offs to match the classic, honour roll title typography. This is a no b.s., straight shooting, all killer no filler blockbuster in a reeling season. This neon green blood next to Marvel's forthcoming, early 2000's looking 'Venom' throwback, is B-movie paradise in this jungle out there. We went from the "what sort of voodoo toy Amazon delivery is this", teaser trailer thinking this movie was going to be a turd. To being pleasantly proved wrong with the instantly rewatchable, band of red, heartbeat first full trailer and then finally not washing our hair for weeks and strapping on some football and hockey pads by the final, Snoop and Dr. Dre, 'One Shot, One Kill' one. F### yeah! But this different animal is more than his enjoyment of his heat seeking missiles and Wolverine claw. As these mercs for hire on the menu are more than just his cannon fodder to boot. Enhanced 'Logan' tough guy Boyd Holbrook is in the star-making, lead role of his life that he looks maverick, top gunner born to play. No matter how many times the Predator picks him up by his throat choke. I mean this is the the metal arm of the law who went after Pablo Escobar aswell as an ex X-Man in Netflix's 'Narcos'. And now this assassin posing a threat like it was the f###### point is the right point man to lead this band of brawny brothers about to be made mincemeat out of. So?! Does he get a cookie now? Or will Arnold just tell him to put it down? It's a good job he has the muscle of Trevante Rhodes in his Rhodey War Machine like corner, putting out matches on his tongue. The charmingly cool, chainsmoking Rhodes' Nebraska wild-man can douse any tension with his diffusing charisma. He may look like he could snap your neck like a pencil stick, but his heart weighs gold. And heavy is the crown for the Ali (Muhammad or Marhershala (who, fun fact was coincidentally in the last 'Predators' picture)) knockout third act of the 'Moonlight' big-three face. Trevante fittingly concluding this trilogy order of parts for the young to old Chiron. Following the 'Black Panther' Compton cameo of Little Alex Hibbert, before the coming age, maturing Black of Ashton Sanders in this years sequel to Denzel Washington's 'The Equalizer' too. But with a body of work as military grade as the ink in the skin of his muscular frame, Rhodes is a warrior. But that's not all the war story and scars soldier you need in this beast of a battle.

In this war zone you need a Punisher. And Thomas Jane's name doesn't just sound like he is one. Before Bernthal, he was a veteran Frank Castle to the hell for ghost making rider leather. And even though he now looks like he's retiring to the bay of Tampa, Florida with a family hopefully John Travolta won't knock off, there's still a skull under that Hawaiian shirt. And he's still crazy. Crazy good. But how about the wolf pack, prison bus breaking load rest of these rangers? As you may want to kill anyone who asks you if you've started your Christmas shopping already, but tis the season for the hunters being the hunted. Like Alfie Allen's card sharp sniper on deck, reeking of precision. Or the Key of Key and Peele, Keegan-Michael. Just as funny and credible an actor as his serious partner Peele is an Oscar heayweight. His crazy a## belongs in this Academy of heavy hitters from a fraternity of Apollo Creed's and last action heroes. As a matter of fact this whole epic, ensemble cast years from now will be considered an epic, assemble class. From 'Chasing Life's' Augusto Aguilera's biblical stinging Nettles character to the Busey family tree. And 'Handmaid's' Strahovski refusing to play housewife stereotype to the best child actor maturing on the treble in Tremblay. But for all the men going up against this machine like alien it's the outstanding Olivia Munn that goes up against it all, hammer and nail. She's more than gun-totting or ass kicking smart in this film. She's also arming up against any injustice in the real world outside this film, after she made sure a scene featuring her being hit on by an actor who unbeknownst to her at the time is a registered sex offender was cut and buried. And she's not afraid to speak out about this abhorrent oversight even if it means she does so on her own. Now that's real strength and solidarity to not just self, but others made to feel alone like the Jane Doe victim. Although now some of her co-stars as of press time have made their apologies and spoken up in her support. Like 'This Is Us' T.V. star Sterling K. Brown. An actor who has come a long way since his 'People vs. O.J. Simpson' jury duty or 'Black Panther' key cameo alongside his 'Marshall' defending co-star, Chadwick Boseman. Doing a sterling job of playing a scene-stealing and confidence strapping commander, Sterling K is more than A-OK in an arrogantly as charismatic as that infectious laugh role that is nothing like his anxious 'O.J.' lawyer, his conflicted Wakandan, or his 'This Is Us' do-good family man. This government agent is declaring martial law in this war from his aviators. And look up, as you're going to want to catch what falls out the sky too. As despite a critical casting mistake, Shane Black is back. This time behind the camera instead of the heated line of fire, after his recent run and rule of blockbusters with a kiss, bang indie feel like Ryan and Russell's 'Nice Guys' and even Marvel's 'Iron Man 3'. For some corny as hell, but entertaining as f### dumb fun. Knowing to base camp take the big action back to the small setting, dense, claustraphobic, far from the reaches of the outside world horrors of the forest, than the concrete urban jungle of L.A. There's something in those trees, exploiting weakness and tracking its prey like game. Enjoy it! Because as soon as you hear that recognisable, switch flicking, heat signature noise you know it's on. As 'The Predator' grabs you by the mandibles. Kiss Kiss, Bang, Bang...you ugly Mother######! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Predator', 'Predators', 'Alien: Covenant'.

T.V. REVIEW: IRON FIST Season 2

3.5/5

Fist Of Fury.

10 Episodes. Starring: Finn Jones, Jessica Henwick, Tom Pelphrey, Jessica Stroup, Simone Missick, Sacha Dhawan & Alice Eve. Created By: Scott Buck.

At Finn Jones is off Twitter again. Just months after he was around to be celebrated for his stepped up, Wu-Tang, smack down, patty cake, powered up cameo with the Power Man in 'Luke Cage' season 2 that hit like a sonic boom. Perhaps the man with the glow glove is channeling his inner chi like Danny Rand and doesn't want to be disturbed atop the glass castle tower of the fortune he's made...and earned. Or perhaps the man who is the immortal 'Iron Fist' REALLY doesn't want to be disturbed. As the terrible Twitter trolling he faced after his criminally underrated (critics gave this Iron monger a good...f### it, I'll say it..."fisting") first season (which actually managed to stay the 13 episode concentration course more than his 'Defender' peer debuts), left him feeling like it was a death by a thousand cuts...or tweets. The same type of abhorrent abuse that still goes unchecked despite forcing the loveable likes of 'Ghostbusters' actress Leslie Jones and 'Star Wars-The Last Jedi' new star Kelie Marie-Tran (ironically and ignorantly the same trolls who are charging cultural appropriation on this show are furious an Asian actress is in 'Star Wars'. True story. Tell me I'm wrong. Nope! They are) to leave Twitter due to bullying that needs more whistleblowing. You may read their open letters of bravery for change, but do we do anything about it? But now in a year following their eight wonder, assemble ensemble mash-up which he still unfairly got hammered for...even on the show (sure he may be the Ringo of this fab four, but there's nothing wrong with that Beatles star). Were every Defender gets a second season like Oprah...and a stepped up one too, 'Iron Fist' season 2 is ready to hit back. No more rope a dope in this rumble in New York's concrete jungle. The dragon has just been unleashed. And you thought you were just dealing with lions and eyes of the tiger oh my?! In this 'Game Of Thrones' this feast of dragons actor is going for the head (take note Thor) with a furious fire. Let the hate burn...to ashes, like Celine singing for Canada's finest Wade Wilson.

But in 'Iron Fist 2' there's another Iron Fist too as his red handed brother punches in like someone stamped their foot on his fingers. Seriously how many people in the greater New York area are punching dragons? Imagine! This is just getting cruel. Still all huff and puff he's ready to blow Danny's dojo down. As mysterious 'Sherlock' and 'After Earth' actor and recognisable face, Sacha Dhawan really reveals his true self here. His docked, cold as ice, fish market introduction, following an epic armoured truck beatdown in Chinatown beginning really has an axe to grind going against the Yakuza and Triad like Hatchet's. But so is Rand, as after taking down the hand like what the five fingers said to the face ("SLAP"!), this Defender of N.Y. refuses to be anyones whipping boy anymore. Even if his season two has been curiously cut to ten episodes. Something these nuanced as every corner of the character itself New York, Netflix narratives of street heroes could pay heed to too. Although with every sophomore season besting each Defenders's rookie campaign, things are looking good for a second here. And you won't want to miss this top tens countdown end like Marvel's signature hair on the back of your hands, stand up anticipated post credit scenes and the back to bandana black devil church confessional tease. And now if you want to be Frank too, with 'The Punisher', Marvel's New York's finest and grimiest now have their own ten series' together in collaboration for you to binge with even more time needed than what it takes to break bad with 'Mad Men' or watch the 'Thrones' (the wide, ever expanding world of the M.C.U. has come a long way from Iron Man to the Iron Fist). There's so much choice on Netflix it's hard to know where to start. Especially with 'Star Trek-Into Darkness' standout star Alice Eve, whose best of is available here the day before you see her steal the show of season two. And after playing and embodying the character of a young Emma Thompson aswell as Thanos himself, Josh Brolin did an iconic Tommy Lee Jones, young K impression in 'Men In Black 3' (and shoutout to Luke Cage himself for the catalyst of the most emotional scene in this movie...or trilogy) and holding Captian America's heart like Peggy is 'Before We Go', Alice is in wonderland as the super feverish Typhoid Mary character. Eve's Mary, enigmatic and majestic isn't just running up the water bill in her New York apartment, her Typhoid tyrant is something even immunisation can't get a handle on like twisted taps and leaky fossetts. Just try and call a super.

Or the cops. Because in yet another comic crossover for the small, smartphone screen shows that we only wish the silver screens would mirror, the metal arm of the law is back. As 'Luke Cage's angel of Harlem, Misty Knight soldiers up to this Winter weary season (the barefoot billionaire is now rocking hoodies and jackets straight out a Carhartt catalogue). And a simmering Simone Missick is not to be missed like all the guest stars and easter eggs on offer here like a Stan Lee police poster in this cracking sophomore (no slump) season. But some of the real stars and drama comes from the supporting cast and the sibling rivalry of Jessica Stroup and last seasons stealer Tom Pelphrey. Stroup owning her character and confidence like Streep and showing the devil inside wears more than Prada as she's done being designed or desired by male manipulation. She is her own, outstanding force of nature this season and she doesn't need Rand's dollars to make sense out of all this. Whilst the hauntingly compelling Pelphrey himself, who in real life is dating Lady Sif herself, 'Blindspot' primetime star Jaimie Alexander (now how's that for a comic crossover? Asgard may be a million realms away, but she's been spotted on earth before and we don't just mean tattooed in a bag in Times Square (see the 'Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D.' first dossier) is soberingly slick and as raw and truly human as he is nuanced. Now stacking what could be the same circle of chairs Castle did with more AA meetings than he has planned interventions, Pelphrey shows self punishment and the tightrope line of recovery in all its inner demons and outer problems caused by these simmering to breaking point outbursts. One apartment, heart to heart, home truth talk with Danny about the inner dragon is tender and touching therapy that rumbles like its subtle punctuated thunder. But trying to hold this all together, the real MVP of this serial is Jessica Henwick. Who is so good she was even made an unofficial Defender in the ultimate crossover series. And here even with the dojo now rocking a (guess whose coming to) dinner table and comfy chairs she's far from the comfort of domestic bliss. Still with a heart locked into the rage of her cage fighting days, albeit this time taking it to the streets and where and who for the fight really needs to be. Her heart is the soul of this series as creator Scott Buck looks to buck the trend of all the fury this fist has received by the hand of critics. And how about the Iron man himself? Even looking the part of the original, costumed Iron Fist from training days bandana, to yellow face scarf that one ups the ante of the green and yellow Power Man hoodie in his Cage cameo. But the always unfairly chastised Jones, who has been criticized more times than Alexander O'Neal is as good as ever in the face of it all. Finn noses through all the jabs, ducking and weaving, refusing to play goose. A true maverick in this series, he holds it all in the palm of his hand and glows. Sure he's not immortal, but who is in this town? They even killed the green God of mischief Loki. But in looking after the dearly departed devil of Hells Kitchen patch of city, this heaven sent Iron Fist is no longer pulling any punches. So as great as this vast city looks, stop hammering Spider-Man on the PS4 for a binging second. As this neon knockout looks to light up the city and your phone screens like Times Square on New Year without dropping the ball. Holding the belt like Balboa moving forward. It's not how hard you hit, but how hard you get hit...and get back up champ. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Defenders', 'Luke Cage'-Season 2, 'Game Of Thrones'.

REVIEW: A STAR IS BORN

4/5

Silver Linings Songbook.

135 Mins. Starring: Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper, Andrew Dice Clay, Anthony Ramos, Eddie Griffin, Barry Shabaka Henley, Dave Chappelle & Sam Elliott. Director: Bradley Cooper.

Reborn this way. You're about to see the raa raa of Lady Gaga like you've never seen her before. But first, at the risk of dropping names, let me tell you about the time I met Bradley Cooper. I was in New York a fair few years ago dancing between two theatres in Manhattan, trying to decide what Broadway show to watch. Hugh Jackman's fishermans friend 'The River', or Cooper in the story of 'The Elephant Man'. As the prices kept auction going up everytime I alternated between the two I finally decided on a trip down 'The River' as the box office cashier told me I could get a ticket for $100 dollars, or stand for 10 (I've been standing my whole life Karen. 10 is fine). Just then a Range Rover pulled up outside and wouldn't you know Hugh Jackman got out. And after three photo attempts on a broken camera to which he politely said, "last one mate" I think I might of pissed off the nicest man alive. Unleashed The Wolverine. But following his stellar show, were right as the lights went down because I was on my own I was moved to the first row ("Oh hey Hugh! Remember me!? Sorry about this cough I seem to have developed just now"), I thought who else could I meet? So I went to the theatre 'The Elephant Man' was playing a full six months before I actually finally got to catch its amazing run in London's West End and went autograph hunting (yeah...I know). As a beat Cooper made his way around with pause to recreate his Oscar selfie pose with everyone (side note: I've been (not true. I disagree) sometimes told I look like Bradley Cooper (I wish). Now side by side I have proof I really don't. More like the down and out Bradley in the first scene of 'Limitless' ("my reason for looking like this? I'm a writer!") or rock star grunged up and overgrown here), I told him his movie 'Silver Linings Playbook' really helped with my troubles with anxiety. He stopped, turned around, looked with me with consideration, took his winter glove off with care and shook my hand like he meant it. The point I'm making? Bradley Cooper understands. He understands pain and suffering in an Instagram treadmill scrolling (imagine your phone has a track that runs all the way around its body) influenced world that would like to play pretend that it doesn't exist. This is a man who used his 'Silver Linings' award acceptance speech to talk about anxiety before most in the mass media do today and that more soldiers die from PTSD and mental health issues these days coming home than they do on the battlefield. And he told the world about this...at the MTV awards. Now a lonely leading man like a rock star from the first minute he lets it riff rip to doubt shredding shook heads and wide smiles, hides under his stetson whilst ambling between frantic adoring fanfare and abhorrent flashbulbs. The man with the same Jackson Maine name slumps into the back of a limousine and twists the hat off Jack. The Academy nominated actor (who really stepped the game up with 'The Place Beyond The Pines', 'American Hustle', 'Sniper' and his Broadway to West End theatre gig as 'The Elephant Man' which really needs to be turned into a movie, as well as that Charlie Heaton T.V. series) knows trouble, even for a Hollywood star on stage with millions of adoring fans. He gets it. He also knows when to take a step back.

Because this is Gaga's time to shine in 'A Star Is Born'. Right from the moment you hear her Ally sing in the alleyway behind her waiting on job after a nightshift, as the titles go up echoing old Hollywoodland starlets. And boy does she glow like this movies epic and energetic first act that is so euphoric and drag queen glam. Her barstool performance of 'La Vie En Rose' is worthy of Paris' Moulin Rouge. From the natural beauty she exudes with no make up to the pure presence she has on any stage that is just neon. A burning star, illuminated by one who has burnt out. Sharing a love so bright it could burn you if you get too close. A lot like your own star status shooting for the 'First Man' Ryan Gosling, 'La La Land' that's out of this world. Stardom in this arena, much akin to writing, or waiting on in shift work patterns is often feast or famine. Many know how to enjoy the feast, but few how to prepare for the famine. One day it's like those pigeons off 'Paddington'...the next, crumbs. But there are no peaks without valleys in this world and both can be found across the wide songwriting expanse of the American land of country music. And 'Poker Face' Lady Gaga who rocked a stetson for her last album 'Joanne' in tribute to a late relative knows this like this genre all too fondly. And seeing this Hollywood starlet sing like a siren as the leading lady to her own movie is as joyous as the autographed result of waiting at the backstage door for a musician like her after a gig in concert with the few fans that haven't given up hope, or the ghost that they've already left. This is well worth the anticipated wait...in Oscar gold. This whole melodrama is a revelation. From Cooper's triple threat abilities to direct and sing stage left, to Gaga's acting chops. She can act just as well, like leading lady Emma Stone can sing. Don't write off this actor and singers ability to swap stories so cohesively. This staged production like everything begins with a pad and pen. Remember, Gillian Flynn was fired by the same magazine who later ran a cover of her 'Gone Girl' movie. Philip K. Dick only saw a preview of his first movie adaptation called 'Blade Runner' before he passed. F. Scott Fitzgerald died poor before 'The Great Gatsby' hit rich. Believe what you write or create is worth more. And just because you're one thing in reputation doesn't mean you can't be another. Just because you're down and out, doesn't mean you can't phoenix. Just because you normally just talk, doesn't mean you just can't sing. Roll up those sleeves. Hit those notes. Because these two stars aswell as both doing what they do best (which is sing and act), crossover as they shoot and hit the moon with the stream ease of a river flowing towards their opposite ends of the artistic spectrum and right through to the other side, where acclaim and accolades await.

'The Greatest Showman' this is not. A million miles away from 'La La Land'. No matter how mainstream massive those musicals are, this 'Crazy Heart' walks the line that Hollywood has remade three times before. But with all due respect to Kris Kristofferson, Barbara Streisand (this one shares DNA nuance and plot strands with this '76 standout of the outstanding originals) and even Judy Garland, never quite like this. This is the greatest hit of 'A Star Is Born' scoring even more points for it's outstanding and original, stellar soundtrack featuring an icon of pop music and an acting one who could definitely put out his own album like Jeff Bridges, Scarlet Johansson or we hope at some point 'Inside Llewyn Davis', Oscar Isaac now. Just wait until he lyrical poetry suggests, "maybe it's time to let the old ways die". Or when under the glare of a Roy Orbison tribute, his Maine attraction Gibson shaking threatens to steal the show like when the late, great Prince did from fellow Travelling Willbury and dearly departed Tom Petty with a guitar solo thrown up in tribute to Beatle, George Harrison. Or this movies swan song and its lasting laments. Not to mention more stellar songs we won't even talk about, because hearing them before you see them in cinematic concert are like spoilers in themselves. Your new Spotify playlist gets by with a little help from their friends behind the scenes, including super producer Mark Ronson and Willie Nelson's boy. No wonder they could on songbook paper hold their own on stage, live and for real at Glastonbury and Coachella during filming. Speaking of friends, comedy God, Dave Chappelle (who has had the best friend thing down since your laptops (remember them?) told you, 'You Got Mail') is as heartfelt as he is hilarious. Even bringing along fellow Def comedian Eddie Griffin to church. Worried for a friend snorting cocaine from his Nashville boots heel and blowing his eardrums with Marshall. Flexing his acting, aswell as his literal weight room muscles in a McClane vest. But it's 'Hamilton' star Anthony Ramos who sets the stage and takes the bar as the best, best friend. Or B.F.F. if you will. Andrew Dice Clay also rolls out a Sinatra Vegas, lounge singer character. Whose born star never left the living room with his own dinner suit Rat Pack gang, featuring filmography journeymen like Barry Shabaka Henley giving it their Sunday best. Whilst country strong legend Sam Elliott lends his moustached 'Big Lebowski' narrating drawl that everyone wishes they could say was theirs to this ensemble as Brad's big brother with words of wisdom and weariness bridged by the generational gap. Even one of todays Gaga pop singers Halsey makes a noteworthy cameo appearance like SNL legend Alec Baldwin as herself on an award tour. Certainly worthy of a future collaboration. But this stage was made for Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta and the man playing the strings behind her. Never giving up her. Even if he is on himself (which she in turn refuses to do the same). Turning their potent pain into puncuated power in a moving movie that will emotionally break you. The first 20 minutes this writer was all smiles. The last 20...all tears. Because to capture and write peoples emotions like this with such loving sensitivity leaves you vulnerable to being open to the pain and darkness on the other side of the light that makes us human. Cooper and Gaga prove they are the right combo in collabo after DiCaprio, Cruise, Will Smith, Christian Bale and Beyonce under Clint Eastwood's (whose about to be chased by Cooper's cop in what looks to be a Redford 'Old Man And The Gun' epic 'The Mule') all auditoned to have this stars birthright. This is the greatest duet for the fantastic 'Five Foot Two' Netflix docu star since she went 'Cheek To Cheek' with legendary crooner Tony Bennett (who probably remembers growing up with the Garland spectacle). One ring fingertip touching grocery store parking lot, post-bar fight scene tenderly tells you all you need to know with just a taste of things to come in songwriting harmony. As this leading Lady Gaga shows she's an amazing actor ready for the Academy. As Cooper already there, shows he too like Stefani Joanne is a great singer/songwriter capable of producing a hit and some lasting lyrics even today's superstars songbook wish they had scrawled down in their back pocket. And as they both share the microphone to tell their stories in new to them individual, different ways, the city of stars reborn will never be the same. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Crazy Heart', 'Country Strong', 'Walk The Line'.

T.V. REVIEW: GOTHAM-A DARK KNIGHT Season 4

4/5

Good Kid, Mad City.

22 Episodes. Starring: Ben McKenzie, Donal Logue, David Mazouz, Sean Pertwee, Robin Lord Taylor, Erin Richards, Camren Bicondova, Cory Michael Smith, Morena Baccarin, Jessica Lucas, Drew Powell, Chris Chalk, Crystal Reed, Cameron Monaghan & Alexander Siddig.

Harvey, Harvey, Harvey Dent said, "the night is darkest before the dawn". And it looks like Two Face, Aaron Eckhart's words from the now decade gone 'The Dark Knight' classic are about to ring true. As the dawn is coming. With the next run of it's closest Marvel rival 'Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D' sixth series being sliced into two, the upcoming season 5 of 'Gotham' will be it's last as Bruce Wayne finally steps out of the manor and takes wing as the Batman. Looks like this villain show has lived long enough to see itself become the hero. With lets hope a big ending and not such a 'Smallville' one. But we almost wish you and me could do this forever like the all too tragically poignant last lines of Heath Ledger's Joker. As Season 4 of 'Gotham' (subtitled, 'A Dark Knight'...oh yes! What a way to celebrate the 10th anniversary) may be it's best yet (and the best superhero showcase on the tube...take that Marvel) after the origin shows original, outstanding opening and the last two acts that saw this show throw everything at the gallery of rogues just to see what hanging nail stuck, albeit with "why so serious" fun. Hallmark dark but with a cinematic elegance that even Marvel's M.C.U. can't muster with all its blockbuster bluster. The cowl is off, but all you need to see is the promotional poster of bats flying from Bruce's back like a cape to see subtext runs through this show like a Joker's thumb through a pack of playing cards. Even if they never can reveal the name of their clown prince ace in the hole like a Gotham Kingpin. But Jerome or Jeremiah, it's still all better than just Jared. And even if "HA, HA, HA" purple and green graffiti marks the walls of this town throughout it's 22 episode run, this cold and dark season is much more than just the punchline of a killing joke. There's decadent depth to all the darkness in this night. From the shadows of the street to the corners of the mansion the lamplight doesn't illuminate like a haunted house of a murdered memory.

Far from year one in this no mans land of a long halloween, there is more to Bruce Wayne's manner this season. As he vigilante stalks the rooftops in a bomber jacket and ski-mask cowl on a nightly ritual vigil just like a...you get it. And this year even though this comic-book serial is playing with a full deck, it still has the hands to cut you. As this kid grows more into the top shelf playboy persona of Bruce Wayne, than the billionaire philantrophist's less social side that sees him play dress up in his man cave. The party and bull#### side of Wayne's world is in for one hell of a hangover, rude awakening however as this party on s### doesn't sell anymore like LMFAO (lol...just kidding guys). And one person for sure not sold by this game is Pennyworth. The butler sees it all. And in one powerful and poignant moment you'd be surprised to see in Shakespeare, let alone the graphic novels of nerdom it's all brought to a punch drunk head. The boy wonder of Bruce tells Alfred that ever since he traded the warm fireplace and a nice cup of tea for a shot of whiskey and whichever body would keep him from being cold at night, he's not thought about his dead parents once. Or even felt an ounce of pain. Sounds like the perfect world right? Until Pennyworth hits us with a sledgehammer and the real cost of living as he tells it like it really is and we're paraphrasing a tad here, "but there's no joy without pain Master Bruce. There's no life without pain. There's no love". WOW! Now let that truly sink in as you sweat the spirits out whilst letting loose in the club. Looks like Master Bruce is still the student. As a matter of fact when it comes to weary words like that from the wise, as valuable as his mothers pearls falling on the sidewalk...we all are. If that doesn't floor you and show you that real revelations can come from anywhere, not just the good book and even a T.V. show far from the turned up nose of high brow, I don't know what will. And even though this serial is about the wide world of 'Gotham', it's telling that the soul of this series is actually about its protector and his guardian. And as the maturing David Mazouz and the veteran Sean Pertwee step it up yet again and grow even closer over the seasons, you can tell this bond that goes deeper beyond character could never be broken. And pure potency it's for sure going to make for one palpably real emotional ending when it's all said and spotlight done. And there's a poetry in that.

Still the star of this show is still the stellar Ben McKenzie. Who after appearing to not look like a young Jim Gordon in this anthology's pilot has flown since and taken his own wing to show he embodies Gordon in good guy in a world gone mad spirit and honourable strength. And hey who else are you going to get to play Jim? Colonel Sanders? Legendary Los Angeles Lakers Coach Phil Jackson? Like Gary Oldman wears the cigar and two fingers of Winston Churchill to the Oscar gold of 'The Darkest Hour', McKenzie deserves an Emmy for being the badge and gun of Jim Gordon, cop to commissioner in this 'A Dark Knight' series. He even gets to rock the iconic lady tickling moustache in a fuzzy dream sequence. I haven't seen a Captain so hell bent on doing the right thing and the conflicted peace of mind that comes with that since the red, white and blue, star spangled shield of America. And now the surf is up for the former long hair, careless kid of 'The O.C.' in this dark and dank, stormy city set in N.Y.C. as effectively as Nolan used the gargoyle gothic Chicago at least he has a partner he can (sort of) count on. But all joking aside, with a shot glass ready bottle of bourbon in the same desk draw as his loaded service weapon, the defiant Donal Logue is by far the best incarnation of the leather hat of the broken and bent, but a good bet, Harvey Bullock yet. Besides we all have a past and Jim's old flames ignite so many schemes and plots here. As the Erin Richards' Barbara blonde gone slicked back atomic is still keen for some action and McKenzie's real life love Morena Baccarin (Ryan Reynolds 'Deadpool' may have something to fourth wall breaking say about this) is now nursing the narrows and an even wider world. Jim still needs them like Bruce his cat in the hat as the Selina, Pfeiffer feline lookalike of Camren Bicondova comes of age and iconic character made her own again, even more than the magnificent Mazouz as they grow closer together for the better. This gallery keeps adding so many more portraits to its profiles portfolio. Like the kitty pride of Jessica Lucas' Tabby cat. Or her butch Drew Powell gone all swamp thing Grundy green. Whilst Chris Chalk's fox in the hole Lucious' tech support and Crystal Reed's Falcone family mob boss really fly, like character actor journeyman Alexander Siddig's Ra's Ah Ghul truly haunting this shows series like his comic stories legend. But its the rogue big three of this bad guy art exhibit that you ponied up the admission fee for. And Robin Lord Taylor's hobbling Penguin, expanding his umbrella like cobbled together covering of the city and Cory Michael Smith's green with split personality envy, Riddler just keep getting better and better no question. But even they've got nothing on the two bit wack job in a cheap suit. Even if the joke really isn't on him, you can see from the scars that Cameron Monaghan wants to watch this world burn. And although we can't call him by his name Cameron still has the last laugh, being borderline both psychotic and iconic. Exiting eerie elevators with a shotgun blunderbuss of a mess and scared victims in his wake, frantically pressing the button of the floor like a kid playing with them all despite their parents warning because they simply light up when you do. Rising up and paying shades of homage to Heath's original party crashing bank job all the way down to that serious tone of voice. Or behind the bars, an inspired interrogation room callback, straight out of the jacket of 'The Silence Of The Lambs' with the boy Bat in a battle for Gotham's soul. And just wait until he makes it all disappear like that pen. Because you're going to want to see this magic trick. More than making up for the milk carton of Marvel's 'The Gifted' Blink and you'll miss her, Jamie Chung's super reporter for the record, the ever evolving and plant growing, changing roots of Poison Ivy, 'Deadshot' wife, Jada Pinkett Smith's crime lord and B.D. Wong's Doctor Hugo Strange in this frames perscription. But still there's so much to reference here in this comic book libary that holds court like owls and from mad hats to cold fronts and all the Scarecrows that stand inbetween pays all honoured respect due to the source material like it was sacred text. And with even more iconic villains from the Rogues Gallery about to become the bane of Bruce Wayne's life, the fifth and final season looks to be bat s### crazy! Now there's a 'Gotham'. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Krypton', 'Smallville', 'Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D.'