SPOILER REVIEW: AVENGERS-ENDGAME

5/5

Avengers 3000.

(WARNING: For the first time for 'Films For Fridays', here is a spoiler review for 'Avengers: Endgame' to celebrate its epic re-release with a whopping whole six minutes (believe me, you can do a lot in six minutes) of extra footage. We have a non spoiler review too if you have been living under a rock though. So if you haven't seen the 'Endgame', look away NOW (Arnold Schwarzenegger voice))!!

181 Mins. Starring: Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson, Karen Gillan, Danai Gurira, Gwyneth Paltrow, Bradley Cooper & Josh Brolin. AND, Benedict Cumberbatch, Chadwick Boseman, Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Zoë Saldana, Evangeline Lilly, Elizabeth Olsen, Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Tom Hiddleston, Pom Klementieff, Dave Bautista, Letitia Wright, Vin Diesel, Cobie Smulders & Samuel L. Jackson. ANNNND, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tessa Thompson, Rene Russo, John Slattery, Tilda Swinton, Jon Favreau, Hayley Atwell, Marisa Tomei, Taika Waititi, Frank Grillo, William Hurt, Winston Duke, Angela Bassett, Michelle Pfeiffer, Michael Douglas, Robert Redford, Natalie Portman, Linda Cardellini & Benedict Wong (is that everyone?). Directors: Anthony & Joe Russo.

BULLSEYE! Or should that be Hawkeye? Jeremy Renner looks on as the arrow of Clint Barton's daughter in this verse meets it's mark. "Good job Hawkeye," he says passing the bow and the Disney+ show over as he high fives his kid Kate. 'Green Book's' Linda Cardellini calls them over for Hot Dogs ("who has hot dogs with mayonnaise"? I do Clint! That's who!) to which he asks her to pick up sticks. But as he turns around to see her reclaim her arrow from the tree she almost felled, she's gone in a gust of wind that looks like the Autumn leaves below. Shivers run down our spines in the cinema collectively as his laughing disbelief quickly turns to arrow head focussed anger, as he looks to the park bench and the rest of his family are gone to the same sorrowful ashes to dust. "Babe"?! He asks before running and "get inside kids" whistling towards the park bench. "Boys...BOYS"! That ominous thunder snaps as out heart breaks (even though we knew it was coming) in the foreshadowing distance of his retirement home. As that iconic Marvel comic flipping identity intro plays in red to the most emotional pre-credits scene in M.C.U. history, that leaves us with a lump in our souls. Now we know what the Hawk was up to during his ankle bracelet reveal house arrest deal after Iron Man and Cap traded hands in 'Civil War' for 'Infinity'. Relaxing with his family and teaching his young apprentice with his same vision the tricks of his trade as he plays with her hair in her eyes like a good Dad. Doing the beautiful stay at home thing before Thanos' rudely interrupted that all with a devastating click of his fingers. Arguably as heartbreaking as the final blow in 'Infinity War' or the 'Ant-Man and The Wasp' post credits scene, Marvel's Robin Hood turned into Ronin with the hood. Samurai slashing his way through Tokyo in an outstanding, one-shot sword fight in the neon downpour, met in the street like Bill Murray under the umbrella of Scarlett Johansson. Slicing and dicing a mob of gangsters and Japanese legend and Marvel Yakuza boss (in something that levels up the stairs like a boss level in a Japanese video game) Hiroyuki Sanada (who also met a similar formidable fate in the land of the rising sun and Hugh Jackman's Logan in translation run in 'The Wolverine') like that poisonous fish from 'John Wick-Chapter 3' that almost killed Homer Simpson with Wick style subtitles. Prepare for war. Parabellum. This is the real avengence of earth's mightiest heroes. Dusting off their capes after not feeling so good.

Glowing like Cap's wide eyes the first time he sees space and appearing like the Avenger solar saviour she was just a solo month before, Brie Larson's brilliant Captain Marvel saves Robert Downey Jr's charismatic cinematic universe catalyst Iron Man from certain (delayed) death. The torch is officially passed to this beacon of hope who also has a Moby Dick like moment like Tony Stark bringing the party to New York in the epic finale ensemble assemble. She also unflinchingly channels that Mamba Mentality when NBA star Matt Barnes tried to inbound the basketball to Kobe Bryant's face as she meets Thor and his arm out, called Stormbreaker hammer. Which may have something to do with the iconic haircut she sports on her throne taking end to this game of epic Winterfell like battle royales. "I like this coupling", Marvel fans said when they saw Danvers' cheeky smile and knowing wink to Hemsworth's hench-pressed Norse God. That was until new Asgard somewhere in the Norwegian Highlands allowed us to be reintroduced to his 'International', 'Men In Black' co-star and Queen on Pegasus horseback, 'Creed' star Tessa Thompson's knockout Valkyrie ('Ragnarok' reunited like with director Taika Waititi's loveable rubble, Korg). And the memes and fan art social media trends in love with Carol that followed. Much to the dismay of that look she shared in 'Endgame' like the comics with Don Cheadle's war ready, machine army gunner Rhodey. Following that losing his family, his world. Killing his sister and seeing his brother killed for the umpteenth, ultimate time (or not if the trickster Tom Hiddleston branches off to a whole new reality that Tilda Swinton's classic cameo was telling Hulk for Disney plus). Killing Thanos himself as he finally went for the head. Not to mention "the last time I trusted someone" losing an eye, Thor let it go. Like Lebowski go dude. Or should I say bro? But save your jokes. Because Hemsworth's portrayal of this wounded warrior proving he was still worthy thanks to some wise words from the witch counsel of his mother and the wonderful queen that is Rene Russo made for one of the most moving moments in the movie as she mouths goodbye. The hurt, confused happiness in his eyes as he can still wield his hammer. Tears of laughter were replaced with ones of joy. But we can't wait to laugh out loud at his Asgardians of the Galaxy team-up movie morons with his rabbit and tree friends of Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel. Kicking names and taking ass with Bautista's Drax and Pom's Mantis. Meanwhile his friend from work, Mark Ruffalo went back to school as Bruce Banner put the brains and brawn best of both worlds together for the CGI incredible, Professor Hulk. And a delightful deleted scene for this re-release alongside a beautiful Stan Lee tribute that has a 'Die Hard' fan service glass trap reference scraping the sky. Although we still want that soulful solo movie like the Lou Ferrigno seventies show. Whilst his former love interest with her own solo movie on the origin way Black Widow sacrificed it all for the team she kept together after Thanos wiped out half of all living creatures. Don't sleep on Scarlett Johansson's red dead assassins creed of redemption. Her final bow, "depends on how hard you hit me" tussle with Hawkeye like they were still more than friends is broodingly beautiful. Although they should have left that trailer moment of spaceship hand to shoulder solidarity from the two in the movie like you may see in this extra footage recut. From blonde back to the blood red that iconically surrounded her head like the rogue Black Widow's rouge locks after she fell to the death depth of the same Red Skull Vormir, soul stone canyon that Josh Brolin tearfully threw Zoë Saldana's Gamora down. Scarlet is a screen starlet turned icon for heroic young women of our time. The blue 'Avatar', trek star Zoë is back in this multi-verse timeline too. Giving even more to that sister story with character development, arc stealer Karen Gillan. Ready to take down her blue man group planet blockbuster with the ultimate comic-book team and iconic frame of all the women of Marvel teaming up for the highest grossing movie of all-time that has already sank James Cameron's 'Titanic'. Infinity iceberg dead ahead! On your left.

"Cap (*radio static*) do you hear me? It's Sam"! The voice is unmistakable as Benedict Cumberbatch's Doctor Strange seeing only one in more than a million ways that the Avengers could win this, holding his finger up to a fellow smart Sherlock opens up his Catherine wheel portals and your new Captain America (who else to take the shield Buck?) comes Falcon swooping through to audience cheers and tears. On your left. Along with Chadwick Boseman's world is changing Black Panther king T'Challa, flanked by his warrior queen's Danai Gurira and smarter sister Letitia Wright. The Guardians of the Galaxy lead by Chris Pratt and the homecoming in hugs of Tom Holland's Spider-Man. No longer five years far from home Mr. Stark (but check out an exclusive sneak peak to the Jake Gyllenhaal bromance Mysterio mystery new movie A.I. (after Iron Man) here). Evangeline Lilly's buzzing Wasp next to Paul Rudd's time heist clock resetting Ant-Man. The biggest in this giant, K.O. battle with Brolin's big, bad boss, Thanos. Elizabeth Olsen's ("why was she up there this whole time") Scarlet Witch waiting for her 'WandaVision' with Paul Bettany. The Terminator salvation metal right hand man of Cap's best friend, Sebastian Stan's Bucky Barnes with you to the end of the line. Even Howard The Duck, quack and you miss him shows up to throw feathers. What? Did you want more? Well how about Goose the Cat, Benedict Wong? Even Gwyneth Paltrow superhero lands in an Iron Man suit to the Rescue. It's an epic, ensemble moment like no other movie in blockbuster history from 'Lord Of The Rings' to an airport in Germany. Only to be gone in the seconds it takes to click ones fingers. As snap quick as an "I am Iron Man" like 2008 later and it's all too late. The man who began it all is gone in a moment we'll rewatch 3000 times because that's how much we love him. We've seen him start a family that's all about juice pops and going to sleep or I'll sell your toys (I dare you not to cry when 'Chef' Jon Favreau talks about cheeseburgers (how about grilled cheese Fav?)). We've seen him emotionally reconnect with his father John Slattery's Howard Stark in the 'Mad Men' 50's. And even finally shake hands with Cap as they do the time warp again. But seeing him save the world one last time is what is the most lasting snap as the waterworks come like a wave even Strange couldn't stop. And the proof that Tony Stark has a heart is in the "wedding" that brings out all the Hollywood and Marvel legends like Michael Douglas, Michelle Pfeiffer, William Hurt, Marisa Tomei, Angela Bassett and Samuel L. Jackson in a cinematic 'Community' of cameos as the Russo Bros geek out. From the retired Robert Redford, to the late, great, bittersweet hallmark of them all, Stan Lee. Excelsior. Not to forget the loved likes of Winston Duke, Cobie Smulders and a deleted 'Dark World' Natalie Portman scene. But the most epic, emotional moment in this movie and history of the franchise and M.C.U. legacy involves the Captain. And it's not when the all-American, Apple Pie leader takes us back to the original Avengers 'Assemble' and has a hilarious Hydra nod to the dark comics turn, 'Winter Soldier' elevator call-back with a pre-Crossbones Frank Grillio. Or when he shows us America's ass when fighting himself like two animated Spider-Men pointing at each other. He could do that all day. It's when he picks something up like he almost did in 'Age Of Ultron' and uses it to pack a wallop to the back of Thanos' head. "I knew it", Thor says with almost more glee then when he found out he was still worthy. Like a lightening bolt Thor's hammer snaps back and smacks into the hand of none other than the man iconically looking up over his shield. Captain America is worthy of my tears. Because that's when I turned the waterworks on to match my hair standing on end, shouting, "YES"! All for the best moment of the blockbuster (although after feeling extremely anxious and hiding in the cinema, watching 'Endgame' for the third time I literally cried at all the emotional stuff. Happy and sad with no f###s given! This comic book stuff was always my escape before it was "cool". The magic of cinema people). And again as he uses it once more to lead the "Avengers... Assemble" last charge it's a classic culmination of everything comic-book in this geek nerdom history where Anthony and Joe Russo throw everything at us and it all sticks, in perfect balance as all things should be. There's another classic mid-battle banter exchange between Thor and Cap over hammers like in all the other 'Avengers' and so much thunder bolts of lightning Galileo. But after giving all the stones back like only he could and old Cap sitting on a bench looking in frame like he did before the serum, passing the shield to an African-American hero of our time, it's the last dance saved for Agent Carter that's the best. As slow waltzing in the living room with Hayley Atwell's Peggy, Chris Evans' Steve Rogers gives us the ending we and he all deserved. It doesn't get more meaningful or beautiful than not leaving your best girl. And with that it's a wrap for Cap and a series of superhero swan songs that were more than just a phase. Now it's time to get you some of that life Tony was talking about as the metal clangs under the hammer for the last time iron hearts. Tip your caps to that. After going beyond infinity and buzz, that's the 'Endgame' now. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Avengers: Infinity War', 'Avengers Assemble', 'Captain Marvel'.

REVIEW: BRIGHTBURN

3/5

Faster Than A Speeding Bully.

90 Mins. Starring: Elizabeth Banks, David Denman, Jackson A. Dunn, Matt Jones, Meredith Hagner, Becky Wahlstrom & Gregory Alan Williams. Director: David Yarovesky.

You're not in Kansas anymore Clark! Is it a bully? Is it a demon? 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' and soon to be 'Suicide Squad' too director James Gunn poses the ultimate question with his executive production. What if Superman was an absolute prick? Someone call Ben Affleck's Batman (sorry R Patz), and don't tell him his mother's name. Because this kid needs to be stopped. Pass me the Kryptonite please. We have to destroy him like some critics are this movie. Still they say the horror genre is redeemed and the superhero one needs a refresh. So how about a dark, graphic comic crossover? What a novel idea, co-wrote by James' cousin Mark Gunn and brother Brian (like the Wayans, there's more of them). This low budget, small superhero scale secret dropped to earth like an alien ship sent on it's way by Marlon Brando or Russell Crowe to Costner farm some crop circles (if you build a superhero origin story with a twist, they will come), directed by David Yarovesky with yardstick career debuting new heights is something else. 'Brightburn' incendiary ignites a new glow to burn the blockbuster Summer season of supers with two piercingly familiar red eyes. The freaks and geeks will love this. The nerd purists will cry comic-book guy inaccurate foul. But didn't DC once produce a 'Milk Wars' comic that saw Batman as a priest, Wonder Woman wield a hoover of truth and Superman as yes well a milkman? So this Sony production, not associated with Detective Comics is a milk run affiliated only in horror homage with a terrifying twist. What if Ben Affleck was right? So before whoever the Stan Lee version of DC gets the lawyers together like Mr. Burns in 'The Simpsons', let's give this comic-book flipping, fan fiction game changer a chance. It may not be super, but with relished references man this kid of steel can still fly.

We're a long way from Smallville kid. But 'Brightburn' is still in Kansas, Dorothy. This is just a whole new multi-verse for the Gunn family tree shooting for their own own 'Glass' breaking version of M. Night Shyamalan's 'Unbreakable' and 'Split'. "Some of us don't die with bullets. Some of us can still bend steel." This dawn of injustice begins in a farmhouse where a young married couple are trying for a baby, even though the infertility exposition books on their shelf read different. Then the bedrock of their new family is interrupted by a loud bang in their backyard (did you feel that too?), where what looks like a meteorite turns their crops to Thanos dust. Sure this all sounds familiar in its set-up and you know where this is going. A stork couldn't deliver it better. But this is no bird, or plane (trust me). Born in air quotes on a farm in Kansas this little boy from outer space is fostered by these new parents who decide to call him of all names, Brandon (is that a 'Superman Returns' Easter Egg riff like the red bed sheets being carried wearily over this kids shoulders in the middle of a sleep walking night? Or a Routh routing rip?). He seems pretty normal, just a little shy and maladjusted. You know, the norm. But when he creepily walks down the stairs and stares like something between the halfway farmhouse of Haley Joel Osment in 'The Sixth Sense' and that demon child like kid from 'Looper' (honestly Joseph Gordon Levitt I would have sent that kid back with the shotgun right away), it's time to take away the comic-book and crayons. Especially when he starts graffiti writing his own symbol everywhere like he conjured it up from a horror movie. Honestly films about freaky porcelain dolls aren't as creepy as this child. And then when he starts f###### with forks. Flinging lawn mowers like mowing the lawn is such a chore. Doing that handshake trick kids do when they jiggle around the bones in your fingers to breaking bad effect. 'Say Anything' showing up at the house of the girl he likes like John Cusack never got a restraining order (Deadpool did it better too...just saying). Terrorising waitresses like asking for more hot water at closing time (if you've ever waited on, you know the pain) and dropping more trucks than Toyota, then like a scene stealing, 'Breaking Bad' Matt Jones for the film's funniest and most formidable moment says as his headlights catch this kid hovering on the highway, "NO"! Nope.

No more heroes. But born from 'Burn' child star Jackson A. Dunn has a future as bright as his made for movie stardom moniker. So long as he isn't creepily typecast as the weird kid. I could see this boy doing comedy...or do I just have a dark sense of humour here? There's a fine line. But this kid nails every nuance like he's in on the joke and it's not on him like the bullied about to get their comeuppance think. But it's 'Hunger Games' showrunner, 'Charlie's Angels' director and Bosley and 'Power Ranger's big bad Elizabeth Banks who is the star of this show. Giving everything to this like any mother refusing to believe her son is evil even when he gives a family friend a steering wheel for braces would. Pitch perfect, Elizabeth has deserved to bank a leading role like this every since she had to go on that date with Tobey Maguire's Peter Parker in 'Spider-Man 3'. Now. Dig. On. This. Ranger reuniting with Banks, 'Logan Lucky' and 'Fanboys' star David Denman is the perfect farmhand father figure for our young Krypton like kid and hallmark husband. Whilst their are strong supporting performances from "lovable narcissist" Meredith Hagner and 'Star Trek: Enterprise' actress Becky Wahlstrom. Both airing more than concerns about this red hooded and caped, rouge, rogue crusader whose balaclava like disguise is strung up like a slipknot (nope...not weird at all). But who better than the Sherrif of this Kansas town in the week of Woody than the legendary Gregory Alan Williams? Yep, that's the guy that used to guard the coast on that California cool beach bike on 'Baywatch'. And do you remember when this LAPD cop used to moonlight on the dangerous downtown streets of Los Angeles with David Hasselhoff for the even more legendary 'Baywatch Nights' (never forget like the Hoff's crazy shift work pattern)? Some people really do stand in the darkness. And just like that sea cops reboots this different take is a bold as it is bright. Sure in the avenging age of the leaving 'Avatar' blue, 'Endgame' this will never be the most marvelled. But at least it burns brighter than the 'X-Men' super swan song of 'Dark Phoenix'. 'Brightburn' is an incredible, inspired idea and clever concept. But one executed in some ways as poorly as that guy in 'The Green Mile' who didn't wet the sponge (there's even burning right down to the skull). 'Brightburn' flickers and then flames out, instead of exploding our minds like the epic character creation it is the brainchild of. It may not be completely bulletproof or invulnerable to shots, but 'Brightburn' could still take the world with a sequel, spin-off or trilogy. Still, chest puffed out riding a mini-tractor, it's going to take more than the social media remixed video skit of Billie Eilish's biggest hit of the year playing over the credits to save this 'Bad Guy'...DUH! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Man Of Steel', 'Super', 'Split'.

REVIEW: TOY STORY 4

4/5

Finding Forky.

100 Mins. Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts, Joan Cusack, Tony Hale, Christina Hendricks, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele & Keanu Reeves. Director: Josh Cooley.

Woody! Let me write my name on your foot one last time. Because there's a sequel in my boots. After going to infinity like a snapping Thanos and making us cry more times than the last two Avenger movies, Disney's 'Toy Story' goes beyond. Finding Scrooge McDuck revenue in that toy chest as you've got a fourth film in me. And forget a bear that smells like strawberries. An old stinky prospector that sounds like a Frasier Crane. Or even "the claaaaaaaw", as you look to cry more times than holding each others hands and looking into the abyss of an incinerating trash compactor. Or giving all your favourite toys away to a good home. Because this time these toys have to deal with a spork, Key and Jordan Peele telling 'Us' that his character is his favourite rabbit this year (get it 'Get Out' follow-up fans?) and the 'John Wick', 'Always Be My Maybe' cameo and 'Cyberpunk' digital breathtaking man of the year Keanu Reeves. In quite possibly his cameo of the season as a Canadian toy version of Evil Kenevil in Duke Caboom. Showcasing his underrated acting and vocal range in what may be the moment of the social media Summer and cinematic circuit the "internet's boyfriend" has owned from GIF's to memes. Like that renaissance to digital era portrait one that proves he doesn't age. Or that Neo is well and truly the one. No wonder Marvel want him in the M.C.U. like we all do. Sad Keanu no more. He's found plenty of others to play well with in this latest 'Toy Story' going fourth. Toys will be toys!

25 years! It's been TWENTY FIVE YEARS since Disney went digital. Taking off like a rocket chasing the back on a UHaul on a remote controlled car. Now kids who watched this "YOU ARE A TOY" film themselves will have kids of their own screaming, "LOOK BUZZ AN ALIEN"! Two and a half decades since the Pixar lamp stamped the competition, shining a new light on how to animate. 'The Secret Life Of Pets' imitation of flattery basically pet jacked their idea too. The first film was truly a movie game changer and outstanding original. Whereas the sophomore sequel had the most stellar scene in the series with that painstakingly beautiful toy repair shop crafted cell structure. And we all know that the third film had two emotional endings worthy of calling it a day for the toys at play that made this trilogy as terrific as the greatest holy trinity's of all-time from the 'Lord Of The Rings' to the 'Godfather'. But these play things have had shorts too like Summer (or the 'Toy Story Of Terror' and 'Time Forgot' seasonal specials for your television sets. And how about the creed of Apollo, 'Predator' army man Carl Weathers making a small soldiers cameo here too with a buddy who gets about as many high-fives as the NBA's Josh Hart?). And even though a traditional Pixar one is missing from this shaded opening, an amazing animated rain soaked, gutter rescue on their drive won't have a dry eye in the house like the time Helen Hunt told Tom Hanks he was still the love of her life in 'Cast Away'. But set adrift this new sequel on the RV road as endearing and emotional as ever is a carnival of unnecessary, but who cares it's the Summer and cinema magic fun for this fond farewell. Me and my friend who remember being taken to the first film as children made for two mid-thirties dudes taking in a kids film for the perfect Friday night (what do you mean it wasn't a date Ben?). And 'Toy Story' releasing it's fourth film in the same week as the Joker vocals of Luke Skywalker himself, Mark Hamill becomes the new voice-box of the murderous Chucky is child's play. As it's these toys set to make a killing with even more scarier drop mouth ventriloquist dummy dolls in creepy pram pursuit Chuck. In still a sweet story brought by 'Inside Out's' Josh Cooley, the legendary John Lasseter and Quincy's comedy star Rashida Jones for this family film amongst a storyboard of others. Tip your Stetsons to that my favourite deputy.

Andy. Bonnie (who left such a moving mark on the final scene of the third act that when reintroduced here you already feel she's an old friend, or treasured family member), whatever your foot reads you'll always have a friend in Woody and Buzz. The all American pie Tom Hanks really is the sheriff of this town. As the Hollywood legend breaths even more new life into just one of many of his legendary roles over the decades. Like the golden era 90's he owned with this iconic character as we pull the string in his back again. Whilst the 'Home Improvement' of Tim Allen opens his space-helmet and wings again as the best Christmas gift since the 'Santa Clause' as Buzz Lightyear. Working with his inner voice for something as hilarious as the to "infinito" and "más allá" Spanish Buzz Lightyear. All the toys are back in town too. From the lasso scene stealing Jessie of Joan Cusack. To your favourite 'Wizard Of Oz' cowardly lion dinosaur in this 'Jurassic World'. A money bank that smells like bacon and sounds like the droll mailman from 'Cheers'. A unicorn that sounds like Larry David's best friend in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'. And even a hedgehog that sounds like what it would be like if the 'License To Kill' 007 of Timothy Dalton's James Bond did Shakespeare friends, countrymen. But how about the late, great Don Rickles Mr. Potato Head being lovingly put back together beautifully by his family? Working to get him back in the picture for his swan song. But as Woody and his plastic pals are on the search for Spork. In the form of Tony Hale's lovingly glue and gum wire crafted, show stealing (apart from Key and Peele's plush rush and the "Yes We Canada" maple syrup of Keanu. Collaborating with the comedy duo for their dream after they named a cat movie after him), cute Forky. We are reintroduced to a porcelain old friend in the peep of Annie Potts Bo. Heroine staff leading these lost sheep against 'Mad Men' Christina Hendricks mad doll Gabby, crazy off losing her gift for gab. This along with cameos from everyone from comedy greats, from Bill Hader to Mel Brooks and entertainment icons like Oakland Athletic players to Red Hot Chilli Peppers funk bassist Flea, really talks like the toys (have you seen the latest interactive Woody when you tell him someone's coming for under this year's tree?). It's the prize of this Grand Basin carnival carousel that is far from an antique. But as we refuse to grow up in the millennial generation will the toys finally be left on the shelf this time? Well between the Disney plus of a Bo Peep origin story spin-off (what has she been up to all these years since 'Toy Story 2'?) and a show where Forky answers life's greatest, existential questions like "why am I alive" (that's pretty deep for a spork with googly eyes), we sure hope not. But as we open the cinematic toy chest for one last movie time, it's a treasure of that same Scrooge gold. As nice as nostalgia, just ask Andy. Like childhood or old friends, there's nothing quite as bittersweet as giving up your favourite toys. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Toy Story 3', 'The Secret Life Of Pets 2', 'The Incredibles 2'.

T.V. REVIEW: JESSICA JONES-Season 3

3.5/5

Netflix And Chill On The Cancelling.

13 Episodes. Starring: Krysten Ritter, Rachael Taylor, Eka Darville, Benjamin Walker, Jeremy Bobb, Sarita Choudhury & Carrie-Anne Moss. Created By: Melissa Rosenberg.

Netflix used to be like Oprah when it came to Marvel's street-level 'Defender' superheroes. "You get a second season! You get a second season"! "You with the skull on his chest! You get a second season too! Even you who looks like he's holding fireflies in his fist! You get a second season!" But ever since Disney looked to be taking all their stock to the magic kingdom of Mickey's land of big ears, Netflix have ended up thumbs down treating these gutter gladiators like Joaquin Phoenix's character in that Russell Crowe and Ridley Scott epic like they were never really here. Are they not entertained? They even cancelled 'Daredevil'...'Daredevil'. And now Alias AKA 'Jessica Jones'. So enjoy these unlucky 13 final episode swan songs streaming whilst they binge last. But maybe this cancellation has something more to say about how binge culture has scroll spiralled into a swipe away afterthought, as long as our easily bored patience will last in this black mirror age. Drum brush stroking across the jazzy, investigational iconic theme. This slow burner like the hit of whiskey after you let that first sip marinate on your taste buds is back and feels right at home behind that frosted glass with her name on it. Even if it is about to be foreclosed. But there's always time for another case to solve before close. And this time it's personal. 'Doctor Who' legend David Tennant's Killgrave may no longer be a tennent in Miss Jones' head (not even a classic cameo) as he's too busy with his own 'Gods and Omens'. But there is a new psycho causing problems whose a halfway house between 'The Silence Of The Lambs' and a Robin Williams 'One Hour Photo' darkroom. And that if that wasn't enough like the wrong sort of midnight caller (is there ever a right one? Sleep people!) in the first episode Jess also has her half sister and talk show host Trish Walker going full superhero as Hellcat to pay too. Even Easter Egg costume designing it up in a local N.Y. freaks and geeks fancy dress store, trying on a combination of classic looks. All for some great nods to Marvel history and comic culture like their salute to Captain America. And when Jessica like Denzel in 'Training Day' talks about all heroes needing to know a good narcotic in her underrated investigational hallmark, narrated voiceover, you half expect him to pull up a chair like in those classic 'Spider-Man': Homecoming' cameos and give her a nice, all American apple pie, warm lecture about the dangers of drugs...even if he is far from home. Send the memes now. "So your show got cancelled and you fell off the wagon again".

'Bonfire' burning through her first book and 'Breaking Bad' and every glass and face around her, Krysten Ritter was born to play 'Jessica Jones' like Hugh Jackman's Logan  Wolverine (sniff) or Robert Downey Jr's Tony Stark Iron Man (all out sobbing). Maybe you could switch up the other great Defenders with good actors, but investigate high and low and you couldn't find a P.I. quite like this in her rebel rocker, Metallica leather and Springsteen blue jeans, born to run in working class hero boots made for walking all over you. With true grit that doesn't give a s###, Ritter is the realest and after last season's episodes all being directed by the power of women she even gets behind the camera for her own episode here. And in the origin story of her sisters superhero status it's the most outstanding one too. Which brings us to Trish, Rachael Taylor. Or should we say the Hellcat? Clawing back her own comic legend after teasing it to end the last season when she caught her phone on the tips of her toes like only us with cracked screens wish we could. Hey, we could always make Luke Cage our background and have the Power Man punching the crack in our screens to save that dollar like that indestructible hero wish he could on clothes. Taylor was made for this. From radio talk show personality, to shopping channel presenter, Trish Walker already has her own shows. But Rachael Taylor would be perfect to host her own Hellcat spin-off if Netflix weren't Thanos-ing every show in sight. Time to let it out the bag. Everyone comes back in the M.C.U. right?

Blind boxers boy vigilantes. Steel skin. Glowing hands. Even the skull across the vest like crossbones. They are all milk carton here for your missing people's case. It's a good job some of the principle cast are stepping it up. Among a hallway of new characters knocking on the door, like 'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter' himself Benjamin Walker. Who hears more than four scores of voices in his top hat head (and not like that). And 'Russian Doll' star Jeremy Bobb's vile layered villain who goes to the 'Captian America: First Avenger' creepy convincing school of Toby Jones. The best of the best are back. Like the beefed up character development of Eka Darville. Now suiting up and working for the right(ish) side of the law. That the Trinity of 'Matrix' legend Carrie-Anne Moss' legal department. With a new team in place Moss is a reloaded revolution rolling like a stone. Holding more than a candle and fiddle for Sarita Choudhury's soloist chello player in a truly moving, musical scene. And like Terrence Howard's Lucious Lyon in 'Empire' she won't let ALS stop her either. Subpoena this! Case in point, the legal proceedings of this suit make for the rich, slow roasting, time for coffee grind that these street Netflix Marvel's were always all about. And it's these nuanced narratives in this truly cinematic storytelling for the wider M.C.U. that makes Marvel that much a flicked cell structure standard of definitive, definite quality. Think of the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies as the comic books. And these streaming shows as graphic novels. Because as much as you binge as quickly as you can, there's still so much depth here for heroes who held their own in an 'Orange Is The New Black' world of 'Black Mirror's', 'Narcos', 'Crown's' and 'Stranger Things' amongst all these outstanding originals like 'You' too. And Melissa Rosenberg's Jones was among the best of them. Second only to the Defender that came first. But even if 'Daredevil' was truly the definition of his name, 'Jessica Jones' went hell for leather. Tougher than the rest this might not be it. Even if part of the journey is the end it's sometimes too hard to even believe it's time to say goodbye. Like Smokey said, "what's so good about it"? And we don't want to with any of these Netflix showstoppers. It'll be a miracle if any of these heroes return. But if anyone can make the jump though it's her. And besides anyone can wear those big ears (except maybe the skull of 'The Punisher') if 'Deadpool' can make it to Disney. AKA, She can do it too. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Daredevil', 'Luke Cage', 'The Punisher'. S.O.S. Save Our Shows (you too 'Iron Fist').

REVIEW: MEN IN BLACK-INTERNATIONAL

3.5/5

The Woman In Black.

115 Mins. Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson, Kumail Nanjiani, Rafe Spall, Laurent Bourgeois, Larry Bourgeois, Rebecca Ferguson, Liam Neeson & Emma Thompson. Director: F. Gary Gray.

Neuralyze this! Here come the men and women in black. They're back. Once again. Like you've never seen them before. They've gone 'International'. No Will Smith. No Tommy Lee Jones. Not even Josh Brolin clicking his fingers. But there is a Thor and a Valkyrie. As the charismatic comic, dynamic duo partnership of Revenger heroes Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson 'Ragnarok' reunite like these Avengers did in this year's biggest blockbuster 'Endgame' putting the Summer on a Hulk SMASH! All for something they just have to let you remember. London is calling with 'Late Night' New York host Emma Thompson and the redemption taken by Liam Neeson for something that bridges the rebooted gap from the space between the terrific Smith and Jones trilogy. And this summer after a clash with the mad titan, a king of monsters Godzilla and a Phoenix bird of prey (not to mention the black suit dog days of John Wick), how about an old fashioned alien invasion for your 90's nostalgia with those futuristic ray guns? And the MIB is down and out in Paris aswell as London. Looking to illuminate the City of Light like they had a flashy thing on the top of the Iron Lady, Eiffel like Tommy Lee winking to Lady Liberty from his wristwatch. The original black suits of '96 were that new hotness. Whilst 'Men In Black 2' proved nothing was old and busted. The third film with Thanos snapping his best keeping up the Joneses impression with Mr. Smith even made us cry. But the worldwide 'International' even without a Will, a way, or a Tommy behind those laser guns will still have everyone on the planet and the galaxy they guard nodding their heads. The black suits are comin'.

Scum of the universe beware. This is the new first line of the defence. Cheer them. Don't fear them. Or jeer them. You really think a black suit is going to save them? Well it looks damn good on you like the flirting between the Thompson's. OH SNAP! London bridges the gap between the towering trilogy that came before and the big smoke that comes later. But don't worry this isn't going to be the last suit Chris and Tess wear. As the Sahara sands of time change all of that. But hey if 'John Wick' can still go full chairman of the board in Casablanca why can't these blues brothers in Brooks Brothers black? But then again that is Keanu Reeves. A new Agent K anyone? Now that would be breathtaking. Back to these Reservoir Dogs however and they are suited and booted for this walk like a little green bag. The bantering back and forth of 'Thor' Chris Hemsworth and 'Creed' superstar Tessa Thompson making for the perfect partnership is still as fresh as 'Ragnarok' was for the Marvel universe. Watching them trade quips over space ships keeps this fizzy and light family film fun for everyone. And it only gets funnier when they are joined by a Baby Groot like, scene stealing Pawny. An off the chess board cute alien in a Jim Henson impressive wardrobe of them (and don't worry to be Frank the Pug Life is still kissing furry little butts here), voiced by 'The Big Sick' star Kumail Nanjiani, who is really unwell here (like how the kids mean it). As funny as he was that time in 'Central Intelligence' with Kevin Hart and a snake over some organs that needed to be transported. He has all the best lines, but Thompson and Hemsworth have all the best moments. From riding a super duper bike, hovering around the streets of Marrakech. To taking that iconic elevator all the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower where more men bend the knee than 'Game Of Thrones'. But up in Big Smoke the most exciting moment belongs to the roadside assistance of a street shootout in a typical, traditional London town road, as this Battery Park staple recharges in the United Kingdom whilst Great Brit, national treasure Emma Thompson keeps things out of this world in her New York Empire State. Just make sure you check your side view mirror as this road stop big gun assemble brings out all the toys. Like making laser Tommy Guns out of taking hub caps. This is louder than a noisy cricket and packs even more of a wallop.

'Straight Outta Compton', the 'Fate Of The Furious' director F. Gary Gray knows how to have and make 'Friday' fun for us all when he's not so 'Law Abiding Citizen' serious. Remember this is the man who brought us the slick new Mini, 'Italian Job' left turn reboot and the 'Get Shorty' more light hearted sequel and Summer smash 'Be Cool'. Not to mention the Hype of Williams rivalling music videos for those N.W.A. legends Dr. Dre and Ice Cube and even TLC (chasing 'Waterfalls') and OutKast (no apologies 'Ms Jackson'). And once the strings of that iconic Danny Elfman score roll in like an ominous black Suburban, he finds his feel and home here like the trilogy testament of Barry Sonnenfeld. He recruits the best of British for these iconic suits tailored like 'Kingsman' Oxford's not brogues too. Cornetto trilogy actor Rafe All really gets his licks in for this film that is all 'Hot Fuzz' meets a 'Shaun Of The Dead' at 'Worlds End'. Whilst the other side of the Atlantic legends Emma Thompson and 'Taken' star Liam Neeson make this so much more official, especially as aside from an Easter Egg painting we are sorely missing a Tommy and Big Willie cameo as in reboot style. This is no spoiler, we just don't want to get your hopes up. There's plenty more flash behind those Ray Bans though. Like the alien brotherhood invasion of French Les Twins dancers Larry and Laurent Bourgeois. Brothers blazing and beasting these 'Eleven Paris' Jay-Z and Beyoncé backing dancers have a ball and truly step it up as two lifeforms that matter...even if in a moment they won't even be matter. As cutting more than a rug they shape shift with objects as weapons all around them and to the concrete flowing streets of a cobbled London in their smoke and CGI mirrors. But if you thought two heads were better than one, then just wait until you can do better with more hands. As 'Mission: Impossible' agent Rebecca Ferguson has three for you to deal with like her alien wig and dress look that amazingly appears like she auditioned for music videos for Sia, Kate Bush and Prince all in the same afternoon. She's a riot though, like these agents to the letter. Or their hilarious NBA Finals commercials with the superstar Monstar 'Space Jam' likes of Russell Westbrook (and why not?), Chris Paul and Anthony Davis (can someone please neuralyze that last trade package from the Lakers for me? Thanks!) that are a slam dunk of fun. Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson make this look good. This is more than a rumour. So don't dismiss it just as quickly. The best kept secret in the universe just got told to a whole new generation. Recognise that as deja vu? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Men In Black', 'Thor: Ragnarok', 'Ghostbusters (2016)'.

T.V. REVIEW: BLACK MIRROR-Season 5

5/5

Media In The Mirror.

3 Episodes. Starring: Anthony Mackie, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Pom Klementieff, Ludi Lin, Andrew Scott, Damson Idris, Topher Grace, Angourie Rice, Madison Davenport & Miley Cyrus. Creator: Charlie Brooker.

Put your phones down now! I'm serious! Stop scrolling. Nobody gives a s###. Stop liking. Why did we all of a sudden rate and revere that more than love? Smart move. O.K. I know the stupid irony. What do I think you're reading this on one as we speak...or tweet?! I'm a hypocrite who does this all the time. My work would be nothing without this platform. But like Charlie Brooker's 'Black Mirror' now in its fifth formidable season of change, like a reflecting smartphone screen we may aswell use this medium to take down this medium in exposing all of its flaws like it does us. On reflection over the years and seasons we've had Star Trek's, Prime Minister's and bays of pigs, 'Mad Men' blocking us and even daughters of 'Happy Days', 'Jurassic World' actress asking to be rated and liked in every day interactions like getting a cup of coffee that is becoming so much more social media than it is actually social. Not to mention the "you spin me round," nostalgic 80's party joy of what life was like before social media. There's even been an interactive 'Bandersnatch' movie for the Netflix streaming service like all those old figure out the ending flip books you used to problem solve read as a kid. But this time in a holy trinity of a big-three heaven sent episodes? So much more. Like the 'Striking Vipers' of our first contestants. Marvel Falcon and new Captain America, Anthony Mackie duking it out with best friend and 'Aquaman' Black Manta villain Yahya Abdul-Mateen II on a VR video game, fighting and a hell of a lot more in avatar form with 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' Mantis Pom Klementieff and Aquaman Murk warrior and Black 'Power Ranger' Ludi Lin in this first round K.O.

FIGHT! One that truly hits in a whole new reality. The video game scenes starring French actress Pom and Chinese/Canadian Lin are inspired. And hopefully will at least influence their own mobile 8bit game like GIF. But there's more behind this VR experience. As it's a whole new shared universe of love and life for the oldest friends who have known each other since back in the day. These vipers strike and take on everything from toxic masculinity and wives losing their husbands to video games. All the way to the silicon valley of a new sexuality, but at the root of it. No matter how much time has passed and how they have changed. There is a beautiful friendship between two brothers, bonded by so much more. Mackie is marvellous, but he isn't complete without Yahya for the multi-verse superhero crossover we never knew we were waiting for. Things get a little more real and grounded in the outskirts of London in 'Smithereens' where 'Sherlock' Moriarty villain Andrew Scott takes a social media employee (a definitive Damson Idris of Jordan Peele's 'The Twilight Zone') hostage whilst posing as a Hitcher (think an Uber Lyft) driver outside the firm's Big Smoke headquarters. In the middle of a countryside standoff that is anything but a peaceful getaway from it all he demands to speak to the companies California CEO. Who is on an offline retreat, mediating the old fashioned way (without an app) and looks strangely what it would look like if Topher Grace played Jesus after visiting the tanning salon. Share that!

Sniper gun blasts in windshield glass that look like the iconic smile of the 'Black Mirror' I.D. logo pierce the tension of this terrifyingly taught tale, with a we won't spoilt twisting climax. One that guts you as much as it goes ignorantly avoided by those still scrolling (HELLO! Can you hear me?). Grace is full of the Los Angeles synthetically genuine version of that beneath all that fake tan and disingenuous "living the best life" lifestyle choices that are really for status show. But it's Idris who is able and the great Scott who is an emotional tour de force in the 'Collateral' car claustrophobic confides. And just wait until the real reason he and everyone else is right there in this spiralling situation trending through the timelines. But don't worry, 'She Is Coming' too. In the same week as pop powerhouse Miley Cyrus releases her new epic EP and 1-800 hotline for fans to call she stars in the third, final and best part concerning another bubblegum pop idol on the teen scene since her early years. Growing up into a whole new idol world of pop manufacture that we sorely, sorrowfully see today subtley. Just like all the satirical social sides this 'Mirror' shows in reflection like a hologram. Yet it all leads to a funny and fun finale, racing against time with Miley, Angourie Rice, Madison Davenport and Miley too. Or should we say Ashley too (or two). As Miley Cyrus' 'Black Mirror' alter ego Ashley O with Prince purple, neon futuristic, iconic trademark hair has her own AI doll for fans emulating their idol in wigs. Beat that Barbie girl in a Barbie world! But through the filters of making young kids think they need make up. Or artists to be painted a certain way that has nothing to do with their own brushstrokes. This doll reveals the dark side behind artificial intelligence and the dumb f###s behind the scenes in music who really think they matter as they try and milk their artists for all their worth and work (knowing they'd be nothing without them as they try to convince them that's the other way round) without considering how much that means in all schemes. But with her own new alter ego idol like Hannah Montana, Miley Cyrus sings "don't f### with my freedom." As the 'Mothers Daughter' and 'Nothing Breaks Like A Heart' singer like going 'Younger Now' country for her last album or singing 'Silent Night' so poignantly on Netflix's own 'A Murray Christmas' special with a good old, 'Lost In Translation' Bill (not to mention her SNL cover of John Lennon's 'Happy Xmas (War Is Over)' with son Sean tis season), shows a whole other side to her amazing acting acclaim. And this purple reign is what makes 'Black's' signature swan song to this series such a deep bow. Mixing themes of identity, individuality, social media, peer, fandom and critical pressure. This is a cooker that stirs everything into one big pot like we all do trying to manage our work, life and love. All in vain whilst we race out of breath and finger pointing pain to keep up with those who aren't even family or friends truly in our lives...let alone hearts. And there's something to be said about that. Like all of this. 'Black Mirror' is the sharpest social (media) commentary there is. We're taking the soul out of everything and putting it on a damn screen.  These digital age Aesop Fables before bed were that electric night light just won't let you sleep. Or maybe something to be done. And that's to put down that phone. Turn off that screen that you think illuminates so much, but really just glares at you. And take a good, long look at that person staring back at you from that black, blank screen and figure out what really means the world to you and everything it's going to take to get there. It starts with you and not with everyone else you're looking at. It's time to disconnect and really switch on. Mirror that as everything else fades to black. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Black Mirror: Bandersnatch', 'Phillip K. Dick's Electric Dreams', 'The Twilight Zone'.

REVIEW: X-MEN: DARK PHOENIX

3.5/5

Phoenix Sun.

114 Mins. Starring: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Sophie Turner, Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Tye Sheridan, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Alexandra Shipp, Evan Peters & Jessica Chastain. Director: Simon Kinberg.

Phoenix rise. From the burnt ashes of almost everything over all these years. 'Dark' has been delayed so much even Sophie Turner's throne taking co-star Maisie Williams' pushed back 'New Mutants' looks fresh. A lot fresher than this 22% attack of the buzz killer Rotten Tomatoes score anyway. It almost looked like the playing cards on the cutting room floor of Channing Tatum's Gambit movie was going to come out the ace in the hole before this (we wish. Look at Tatum's sequel to 'Kingsman' knockout shotgun, Statemen statement for another should be spin-off). All this straight out of the Fox hole for this X franchise running for almost twenty years and 12 movies in their last stand endgame against their Marvel Studios Avengers cinematic counterpart. All before the only franchise that could have stood blue toe to toe with them becomes absorbed into the castle of Mickey Mouse's Disney empire for all the toys to be played with in the same sandbox (guess whose peeing in it Wade?). And it'll be a real shame if these actors don't get to join the party too. So it's probably best to enjoy them now whilst they last. All this for late night host Jimmy Kimmel to spoil the major death (we won't) in this movie right after saying "this isn't a spoiler but". The look on the casts face was as priceless as what I wish the admission was to see this movie now I had the reveal curtain called for me before I even had chance to have them opened for me in theatres. Nice one Jimmy. Back to Fallon's desk slapping laughter and repeated imitation after every guests answered question it is (back to Fallon's desk slapping laughter and repeated imitation after every guests answered question it is). How much more bad press could 'Phoenix' get? It's almost like M.C.U. (look out for that Easter Egg) fans wrote the rotten tom...come on, we aren't going down that splattered road again. But after James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender's rebooted Professor Xavier and Magneto franchise truly was so 'First Class' they had to bring everyone from Patrick Stewart to Ian McKellen back for one of the best superhero movies of all-time (regardless of studio 'Dark Knight' DC) in 'Days Of Future Past'. Everything looked good for the most triumphant trilogy since 'The Lord Of The Rings' or the Godfather of Christopher Nolan. But then the apocalypse that was 'Apocalypse' happened. Despite having the best actor of the moment Oscar Isaac in it. His iconic villain looked make up chair apocalyptic on a 90's budget purple 'Power Rangers' level. Now however his 'A Most Violent Year' co-star Jessica Chastain (who would have also been perfect for the Phoenix) is here reuniting with James McAvoy like she will do this Summer too in 'IT Chapter Two' and with her 'Tree Of Life' son Tye Sheridan (like Fassbender did with 'Slow West's' nightcrawling Kodi Smit-McPhee, coming of age and stage here) to whisper in the flame haired ear of Jean Grey trading her traditional red head for the grey of a platinum blonde alien like when she went so raven like Jennifer Lawrence (questioning everything here with heart and soul feeling) for 'Molly's Game'. You can bet on her too with all the cards in this last stand remake that to be frank matches the fantastic Famke, flame to flame on.

Skewered 'Logan' fans beware however. Following the neo western and noir of his greatest show man, this is the first real X movie without Hugh Jackman's seemingly kebab aside indestructible Wolverine beast for your box office. His magazine cut-out likeness was even used in the Fox franchise saving 'Deadpool' meta movies that broke walls and balls. And how about that 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine' (still a fondly fun film in my opinion) timeline post-credit take at the end of 'Deadpool 2' too (the only blockbuster movie last year like Josh Brolin to rival his own 'Infinity War')? Don't scratch! There's no apocalyptic, machine head, classic clawed out the comic throwback cameo here. You want to see Logan run again? Go back to the classic 90's comic animation like most want to right now as this still does the "you are love Jean" Grey story better than anything else aside from the geek treated sacred origin graphic novel text. All this burning it down, yet 'Phoenix' still rises in a scorching summer where it has the blue flame of the 'King Of The Monsters' Godzilla to contend with along with the 'Always Be My Parabellum' of the man whose dog they killed, 'John Wick'. Not to mention lions, flying elephants and genies oh my. And every Avenger assembled for the last snap to dust like the ashes laid to rest here in the last X to mark the spot like 23 did with that cross. Rain soaks the singed flames of Phoenix Sophie Turner's Jean Grey (see above. It's not a "when the reviews come in for your new movie" meme) as the crowned 'Game Of Thrones' star rules this empire of X-Men and much more powerful women here in a downpour and downcast, critical and classic scene that just shows how essential and epic this actor truly is. Turner's turn and take on the Phoenix can withstand any fire. Even the hilarious, very British (from a Scot nonetheless) and somehow below the 'Split' multi-talented actors range of creative actings pay grade, "I don't know what to do" first trailer quote from McAvoy's Xavier that should have at least been turned into a Twitter troll meme response by now. Thank God that one ended up being cut like Gambit's deck. Still if I had the technical know how I would have turned it into a joke remix to The White Stripes classic 'I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself'. Please someone do this. We only jest, McAvoy and this movie are still deserving more of our praise. Even if the character he studies isn't, as Xavier shows us the toxicity of ego on masculinity and the male manipulation poison of a saviour complex. And you'll have thought changing into a nice turtleneck sweater and chords before the team jet to an emergency was bad. But just wait until he gets his Fred Astaire up the stairs on. Yet with his saved Shyamalan shaved head he is still a 'Glass' cut above the rest. It's not all dark.

Explosive and bright. 'Phoenix' sets everything alight in the finale fireworks to celebrate a comic cinematic blockbuster spectacle that made Marvel movies matter way before the star spangled shield or the nuts and bolts of the billionaire, genius, philanthropist we love 3000 like Andre. Even if this is a little meh underwhelming at times and grounded for the event epic it's supposed to be. But besides there's so many superhero films that are good despite people saying they are bad. 'Iron Man 2'. 'Thor: The Dark World'. You know I'm going to say 'Batman v Superman'. Hell even the bright fury of David Ayer's 'Suicide Squad' and Jared Leto's Joker on second viewing is hilariously underrated. And this movie has Jessica Chastain in it...Jessica Chastain people. You know my obsession like Calvin Klein. She makes a formidable foe for our divided we fall heroes in what along with Stephen King's horror adaptation looks to be her blockbuster by the books year, just like the triple threat of 2016's 'Miss Sloane', 'Molly's Game' and 'The Zookeepers Wife' should have at least been an Academy Award nomination Oscar. Not one? Yeah I'm still talking about that like the injustice to 'Dawn Of Justice'. That aside all of the first class best are still here. Apart from Zoë Kravitz and all those Blink (Free Fan) and you'll miss 'ems. Although there are some new mutants here like a Medusa like dreadlock warrior who whips his hair back and forth. Don't get tangled up! But how about a fantastic Fassbender always bringing forth more of that Shakespearian tragedy to his conflicted villain like a classically trained Tom Hiddleston does his God of mischief Loki across all the realities? You knew when McAvoy saw these Stan Lee comic creations of frenemies as the peaceful/violent conflict mirrors of real life histories Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X that these chess playing Marvel knights were truly on to something. Or 'Tolkien' star Nicholas Hoult Beast besting 'Frasier' Kelsey Grammar. 'Ready Player One' Tye Sheridan's visionary future of Cyclops we only wish we could see more of. The thunderbolts of lightning Storm of Alexander Shipp who as my friend and fellow writer Poet said, "Darth Sidious doesn't have s### on". And the Gonzalez gusto of Evan Peters 'Days Of' and 'Apocalypse' scene stealing, faster than a speeding 'Ultron' Quicksilver. Even if here he is slowed down with a shorter runtime. But still with the couple hours here and after pages and years of assisted screenplays, making his mutant Marvel directorial debut Simon Kinberg is King for this Phoenix Queen. From an out of this world, outstanding, opening NASA scene that has no problems in its Endeavour execution Houston. To a familiar home invasion and a terminating machine gun train heist finale. And even a "get to the chopper" reference in the face of a heat signature predator, bird of prey who power corrupts wrestles with the dichotomy of good versus evil with those same expressive hands that at one moment look like she stans for K-Pop juggernaut BTS and at others looks like she is helping Ross from 'Friends' move a couch. Pivot...PIVOT! Sit down and put your hands together for this one. Because this is it. Ashes to ashes. Thanos to Thanos. And this fire bird still flies even if it fizzles instead of flames out. Keep the fire burning. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'X-Men: Apocalypse', 'X-Men: The Last Stand', 'Game Of Thrones'.

REVIEW: BOOKSMART

5/5

Superbook.

105 Mins. Starring: Kaitlyn Dever, Beanie Feldstein, Billie Catherine Lourde, Diana Silvers, Skyler Gisondo, Noah Galvin, Eduardo Franco, Molly Gordon, Jessica Williams, Lisa Kudrow, Will Forte & Jason Sudeikis. Director: Olivia Wilde.

Skateboarding through the storm drains of Los Angeles in 2016, 'Tron: Legacy' and 'Cowboys and Aliens' star Olivia Wilde cut her directing teeth with legendary Californian funk rock band the Red Hot Chilli Peppers for one of their best songs and music videos in years. But she was always meant for more. So the smart star went and hit the books. 'The Breakfast Club' after detention. The 'Pretty In Pink' prom before homecoming. All the "Brat Pack", 80's babies John Hughes classics. And mixing all that off 'Jump Street' with an Urban Outfitters dressed, Coachella crowd (this is the Maggie Rogers of movies). All whilst recapturing the camaraderie she found in her all female longboarding crew with the Chilli's. Olivia gives us the best teenage dream graduating from high school and hoping for so much more since 'Superbad' (12 years ago?! Feel old yet?), which celebrates McLovin's driver's licenses 38 birthday this week. And this 'Booksmart' that walks on the Wilde side and mixes generation gone nostalgia with millennial madness like Richard Linklater being 'Dazed and Confused' that 'Everybody Wants Some' stars Jonah Hill's sister too. As Beanie Feldstein more than makes her own name. Raise your red cups because this frat party is more than another slice of the American pie we told your mom you ate. It's the American dream for kids who know exactly what they are doing with their lives...they just want to act like they don't. In the most freaks and geeks, all inclusive, woke young adult film you've ever seen this side of Hollywood stereotyping which are the only things that really need to go back to school here. It's out for summer and cool for it. This classic is in an Ivy league class of its own.

Condom water bombs at the ready. Let's take roll here for an absolutely amazing, comedy gold, generational legendary movie and the icons to be that are present like Balakay and D-Nice. Kaitlyn Dever. The 'Bad Teacher' star known for her work in dynamite dramas like 'Detroit', 'Short Term 12' with Captain Marvel, Brie Larson and Timothée Chalamet's 'Beautiful Boy' about to explode to her own Hollywood's star stratosphere in the La La Land city of them. Armed with the defences of a wit drier than the desert up there near the iconic sign she is one of her own times. Dancing around hilarious moments like literally calling shotgun in a cop car. All whilst having the smarts and the hearts for more, just like this movie that is as heartwarming as it is chest hurting. Endearing as it is emotional.  Progressive as it is nostalgic. Just like the charming chemistry set over science lessons with her sister Beanie Feldstein. This film is really a "fromance" (is that a romance with a frozen yogurt?). Jonah's younger doesn't just remind you of the Hill family comedy talent which has more acting smarts over the other side, but also what it's like to see the power of a star in her own making coming of age. Beautiful, full of bravado and beyond brilliant Beanie graduates from the 'Sorority Rising' of Seth Rogen's 'Neighbors 2' under Chloë Grace Moretz's crew and the Greta Gerwig 'Lady Bird' movie that this shares Cali shines with to her own valedictorian, cap and gown moment throwing it all up. The 'How To Build A Girl' actor shows you how to build a star born for right now, no longer hiding in-between the lockers for this coming out party.

Quiet class. Simmer down. We ain't finished calling roll. There so much more that carries on here like overpacking your bags in LAX for a comedy that could even ground Seth Rogen's political punch spike 'Long Shot' for Air Force One with Charlize Theron and the crazy, rich Asian idols of Netflix's 'Always Be My Maybe' featuring Mr. 'John Wick'. Like Carrie Fisher's daughter and new 'Star Wars' trilogy princess Billie Catherine Lourde. Royally stealing every scene she shows up out of nowhere in with her mothers and her own comic grace. Riding along with the funny and on point 'Vacation' and 'Night At The Museum' actor Skyler Gisondo, riding around in what looks like the pimped pimped ride lovechild of a Hot Rod and the Mystery Machine on a love boat that rocks (don't come knockin'). But behind the Paul Wall grill and Machine Gun Kelly shot at wardrobe there's so much more for the young graduate who fondly reminds us of the 'Secret Of The Tomb' time Ben Stiller and the late, great, beautiful Robin Williams helped him ask out his prom date via viral video. There's so many more young Americans here in the midst of their moment you want to be with. Liked 'Glass' and this week's 'Ma' competing actress Diana Silvers. A class posh Noah Galvin in drama club velvet. Dropping the mic after deep throating it on the best karaoke scene since Bill Murray rocked out to Roxy Music in Tokyo to Scarlett Johansson, 'Lost In Translation'. Holding his own accented acted, murder mystery party that you'd die just to escape. An epic Eduardo Franco (no third brother relation) trying to Stifler's mom make it with 'Dope Queens' cool teacher and 'The Daily Show' correspondent Jessica Williams. And 'Life Of The Party' starter Molly Gordon who is no easy A. And that's before we get to the grown ups in this Adam McKay and Will Ferrell executive produced old school masterclass. There's 'Friends' and MY GOD SHE WAS IN MY HOMETOWN JUST TWO WEEKS AGO 'Long Shot' legend Lisa Kudrow. As hilarious as her 'SNL' and 'MacGruber' husband Will Forte, scene stealing like they wish they could with their guess what you're having for dinner party. Even Olivia's husband, 'Horrible Bosses' comedy genius Jason Sudeikis is here as principle with a side gig playing some Cardi B. Wilde's wonderful directorial debut ride with Dan The Automater scoring on a perfect playlist for a sick soundtrack featuring Perfume Genius, Jurassic 5 and LCD Soundsystem (oh baby this is perfect in a roadside assistance, 'Uncle Buck' homage) is a coming of age classic for director, stars and us we all will never forget. From musical numbers straight out of the dance steps of Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone to LSD trips that will have you stop animating in hallucinogenic hilarity, you won't want to call "Malala" on this one. Even when a smartphone filming moment filters how cruel and crass we can all be at someone else's expense. I'm calling this teenage endgame that is funny but FOMO forewarning the best movie of the year aside from those Avengers. And with hair pulled over their faces as masks (like everyone will be doing this Halloween) for a punchline perfect pizza delivery these girls are heroes of their own. Time to assemble to cinemas. You don't want to miss this. Book it. Make the smart choice. This is a straight A+. All F's given! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Superbad', 'Lady Bird', 'The Breakfast Club'.