T.V. REVIEW: THE HANDMAID'S TALE Season 3

4/5

Testament Of Fruit.

13 Episodes. Starring: Elisabeth Moss, Joseph Fiennes, Yvonne Strahovski, Alexis Bledel, Madeline Brewer, Ann Dowd, O.T. Fagbenle, Max Minghella, Samira Wiley, Amanda Brugel, Sydney Sweeney, Bradley Whitford. Creator: Bruce Miller.

Testify. 'The Testaments'. Toronto's classic Canadian author Margaret Atwood's long, more than thirty year awaited sequel to 'The Handmaid's Tale' book comes out at the end of this week. Blessed be the fruit. And may the Lord open. As you will too this brutal and beautiful book following the dystopian one wrote in 1984 like George Orwell that couldn't be more relevant and prophetic in this 'Me Too', 'Times Up' time. This is why despite three decades of anticipation for a new chapter we've already had three seasons of Bruce Miller's amazing adapted T.V. show starring 'Mad Men's and 'Us' actor Elisabeth Moss for Hulu. Fast becoming one of the top five programmes, dead or alive in the golden age of television from streaming services to the tube. Moving like extended movies with so much storytelling scope across Autumn to Winter like the changing seasons. And now in testimony we will see if the extension of Atwood's vision of Gilead bears fruit to what she always intended to write with influence like the telling of George R.R. Martin's 'Game Of Thrones' as we continue on. And cover to screen with these pages of scripted prose there's as much soulful symbolism here as there is perfected prophecy. And it doesn't get more on the nose than June's red standing in front of the desecrated and beheaded Lincoln Memorial in the corrupt capital of the de-United States' Washington D.C. Trump take the hit. Because this attack on the monument to a man that freed so many men whilst these women remain enslaved speaks volumes like a Gettysburg address. Or even the monument to the man who stood on these steps above the magnificent mall where these Handmaidens gather ("WAKE UP AMERICA") and told us all about the dream he had. This message trying to get us through real life and to the promised land as we still can't see real equality on the horizon beyond box ticking and trying to look good on social media for our own self gain. And just think the last "director" to use this monument as a symbol was Michael Bay in the 'Transformers', 'Dark Of The Moon' sequel. Although he thought it was more appropriate to have one of his bots hump this dismembered, statuesque head of good old honest Abe. Although from sterile supermarkets that show you just how shelf sparse the freedom for these Handmaids are. To a symbolic mourning suit in black for a funeral amongst all this red reads and even standing in front of symbolic angel wings like everyone downtown does on Instagram these trends, nothing is f###### with this tale that takes on the passive rape culture inflicted on women still to this day and the modern world of mother earth. This is the power of women. Set yourself free.

Praise be to Elisabeth Moss. Gathering her greatest yet again, off that Offred name she's off the chain. A seething, searing, crimson cauldron of rage against the machine. The actor who can read back books to you with just one facial expression like when she walked around the six broken hearted for Max Richter's haunting instrumental music video that was harrowing for Leonardo DiCaprio too in 'Shutter Island' for 'This Bitter Earth'. In the climatic moment of this series when you think "will she or won't she," you just can't take your eyes off her eyes. Focusing on just that emotion. But just wait until she opens her mouth and really speaks for her cause. Blessed be her fight. 'The West Wing', 'Mad Men' and 'Top Of The Lake' actress already had her big three T.V. syndicate. And now from 'Us' to 'The Kitchen' about to be fresh out in cinemas, Moss is making movies too. But this is her moment. Her magnum opus. The legendary legacy her dedication and talents will be remembered for as Moss bears fruit. Elisabeth is the queen of this show which belongs on the throne in this game instead of serving wretched kings. One being of Joseph Fiennes. The 'Elizabeth' actor and Great British talent, slicked back and oozing dangerous malice and slime in kind. His grit under pressure strained voice sometimes even sounding electronic, or metallic like the taste of the 'Rancid Aluminium' movie he starred in. But this time the London boy out in Toronto, running for the Canadian border is under the gun with his 'Predator' star wife Yvonne Strahovski. The 'Chuck' and 'Dexter' actress a revelation in this third season, playing more sides than Domino's. And how about 'Gilmore Girls' and 'Sin City' actress Alexis Bledel willing to swim for her freedom? Checkpoint to checkpoint Charlie, bathing baby in her arms, head held above water like a baptism of fire for one of the most emotional evoking epic moments of the whole shows run coming early in the season like Spring sun? But this Godmother of a show that truly takes it to the mattresses like Sandra Bullock writing to Keanu Reeves in the top of 'The Lake House' has a couple of 'Orange Is The New Black' actresses on lockdown that it may aswell be Orange is the New Red. Even Bruce Willis would die hard for this. With Queen Helen Mirren totting a a shotgun. As raw as red. As good as dead.

Bang! Until the last chamber of this chapter there is an artillery of ex 'OITNB' cons ready to throw down. Under losing an eye, Madeline Brewer still has and sees more fight than many. Whilst Samira Wiley surviving the times on the other side of the wall with her wiles thrives. With new 'Black Widow' actor O.T. Fagbenle by her side in strong support like 'Teen Spirit' star and Elle Fanning beau, Max Minghella (I know he's much more than that, his talent is incredible...but how many times are actress referred to as "that lady" or "so and so actors girlfriend?" No matter how famous or more so than the actress the actor is). But for all the creative, collaborating cast. Featuring Canada's own 'Room' star Amanda Brugel, 'Euphoria' and 'Once Upon A Time In...Hollywood' young star of the future and right now, Sydney Sweeney and the sympathy for the devil origin story episode trademark for the "mothering" of  horrifying 'Hereditary' and 'Philadelphia' star Anne Dowd out in the T-Dot as Aunt Lydia. It's her Philly reunion or Elizabeth Moss' 'West Wing' one with the more established in this season 'Get Out' and 'Godzilla-King Of Monsters' actor Bradley Whitford that really gets you. He doesn't just add another big name, but a big game change for the stakes of this show. One that no longer going by the testament of the book in tribute is still all alone truly something in telling stories that not only match Atwood's legend but real life, right now at this present time as the strands of this story are to be continued going fourth. Something that still bleeds crimson, existing in the margins between the blank white spaces at the edges of print. Scored to a sweet Spotify soundtrack, 'Burning Down The House'. Atwood's 'Handmaids Tale' came out when I was born and back in the college days we studied it for English Literature. Hopefully the same will be taken back to school with 'The Testaments' like they should literary aid show this show in lessons. And to those who don't think it should be in the syllabus as timely even more now as it was for this young man learning about the wider world back then, or the future it predicted when I was prematurely born. If you think these books should be 'Farenheit 451' torched then it's time for that Trumped up notion instead under his eye to burn mother###### burn! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Man In The High Castle', 'Westworld', 'Orange Is The New Black'.

REVIEW: ANGEL HAS FALLEN

3/5

Angel Down.

121 Mins. Starring: Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman, Jada Pinkett Smith, Lance Reddick, Tim Blake Nelson, Piper Perabo, Danny Huston & Nick Nolte. Director: Ric Roman Waugh.

'Tokyo Has Fallen'. That could have been the name of this sequel conclusion to this terrific trilogy in neon bright lights. And drifting towards that like a 'Fast' franchise how furious would that have been? Especially with the 2020 Tokyo Olympics coming for this 'Olympus' sequel after this year's Rugby World Cup in Japan's capital city for the scrum half looking star. Still, lost in translation all angel eyes are on a new target. As after '300' star Gerard Butler's 'Olympus Has Fallen' came out at the same time as Channing Tatum and Jamie Foxx's 'White House Down' (awwwwkward), it proved to have more rounds with the Big Smoke sequel of 'London Has Fallen' (although I would have watched 'London Down'). But now instead of heading to the Far East the sun won't rise on this, as this trilogy now prefers a stripped down solo mission. Like a modern day 'Fugitive' with drones instead of dams (Tom Hanks in 'Sully' would say they looked like birds before they strike). And Nick Nolte instead of Tommy Lee Jones. Stepping into the Harrison Ford, "I didn't kill my President" role like Jake Gyllenhaal's "this man had a mechanical arm" or comedian John Mulaney's "you switched the samples" inspired impressions of your fugitives name, Dr. Richard Kimble, Butler serves POTUS like you would for anyone but Trump. As in reprising his trilogy role Morgan Freeman reprises his 'Deep Impact' role as President of the United States. 'Olympus' and 'London' were more violent than bullets and blood in a microwave. So expect 'Angel' to follow foul mouth suit and Presidential seal to the film classification certificates lack of approval. F### it!

The Rock and Jason Statham, otherwise known as the 'Fast and Furious', 'Hobbs and Shaw' this foggy London town Summer may be the new generation, bald identity action heroes to those who think Schwarzenegger and Stallone are really 'Expendable'. But Gerard Butler is you no B.S., 'Die Hard' Bruce Willis without the Tatum 'W.H.D.' string vest. Yippee Ki Yay my President. My President is black. My President is Kaepernick. My President is Barack. Or at least a fictional Morgan Freeman like red too. Whipping pistols and ass the Butler does it too, knuckles to dust. The 'Law Abiding Citizen' star takes the law into his own gun-totting hands. All to Secret Service protect the one who serves now that Freeman's Fox 'The Dark Knight' co-star Aaron Eckhart's Harvey 'Two Face' Dent is no longer in office in this film that even makes appointments to blow up hospitals like The Joker. Gerard even emotes some world weariness for a veteran hero whose served more men than McDonalds for what seems like an infinity wars. With secrets in service of his own this one, he hides a prescription that pain at bay pops more pills than a jumper washed too many times. But is that all he is hiding after an in the line of fire, drone strike assassination attempt leaves him cuffed to a hospital bed as the only one to survive next to the sitting President? Now the angel has fallen this time and with the FBI determined to clip his wings was he set up? Or is he set on a whole new path for this serious left turn from the franchise? This one at times may be more predictable than text, but there's still a slick script for 'Snitch' and 'Felon' director Ric Roman Waugh to play around with like dynamite. And if that wasn't enough the gravitas from the Presidential voice of legend Morgan Freeman lends an official authenticity to it all, as he can even stir speeches like morning coffee siting on the mahogany edge of his Oval Office desk. But the real legend that steals the show is the spit beard, grit and gravel, timbre and tone of a lost in an 'Enemy Of The State' Hackman like, 'Fugitive' wilderness woods Nick Nolte. This 'Warrior' at his pops playing part best since Hardy was his boy.

Ang Lee's CGi visionary 'Gemini Man' may see Will Smith play Fresh Prince double duty, but it's 'Collateral' and 'Gotham' star Jada Pinkett Smith who is really Tommy Lee. Commanding the screen with Deadshot aim right now as she owns every moment she holds in 'Angel Has Fallen'. The Wicked Wisdom singer is still heavy with that metal and let's hope she can still dodge bullets to in the just announced 'Matrix 4' sequel. Keanu Reeves' right hand 'John Wick' man Lance Reddick certainly can in the latest chapter to his career here. Whilst a sworn in 'Buster Scruggs' Tim Blake Nelson and 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine' Stroker Danny Huston add more backstory. But it's not just the Vice of Morgan making replacements as 'Coyote Ugly' and 'Looper' star Piper Perabo takes over Rhada Mitchell's role with just as much grit and grace. Making a complete cast for a complete trilogy. Even though if at times 'Angel' feels flat and a crossover to falling in Tokyo would have recharged this franchise like Shibuya, there is still plenty in the clip for this highlight package. In this Netflix streaming age with a fountain of a library of new and classic movies we've seen or not available at our own swiping left, age of the social fingertips disposal, many movies we see in theatres become one and done's to never ever even be seen on DVD again. And in a lost, post season what may be the late August last blockbuster of the Summer before the Oscar fall (save an early Halloween 'IT' chapter too) is a real big one to enjoy in its moment before the 'Fallen' trilogy serves as your next movie night big three feature as you stay at home and microwave popcorn and chill. Because from Olympus to London, no matter the fall, the flag still flies for this guardian Angel. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Fugitive', 'Olympus Has Fallen', 'London Has Fallen'.

T.V. REVIEW: AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D. Season 6

3.5/5

Agents Of Sarge.

13 Episodes. Starring: Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Iain De Caestecker, Elizabeth Henstridge, Henry Simmons, Natalia Cordova-Buckley & Jeff Ward. Creator: Joss Whedon.

Space. The penultimate season from Marvel's final frontier. These are the voyages of the 'Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D.' Their continuing mission, to seek out new lives and new seasons for Clark Gregg's Agent Caulson. To boldly go where no Nick Fury has gone before. 'Captain Marvel' may have put fan favourite Caulson back on the big screen, like this 'Buffy The Vampire Slayer' Joss Whedon produced spin-off series brought 'The Avengers' actor back to life after he was Kebabed by Loki before the directors last 'Age Of Ultron' stand. The 90's throwback of Marvel's new Captain my Captain between 'Infinity War' and the 'Endgame' giving Clark Gregg the CGI Oil of Olay, anti-ageing treatment they've given all sorts of legends of movies and now Marvel. From the planet eating Kurt Russell to the original Ant and ladies man Michael Douglas, swaggering through his bid for his own standalone Hank Pym origin movie (we'd swarm to that). But after retiring to the islands of paradise before passing away like the fifth season it really looks like Tahiti really is a magical place. Because who's that lurking in the background of the sixth seasons promotional picture art with shades of the last supper? And with that look on his face at his fellow agents if he really is resurrected is he looking to get his Judas on and betray? Surely not Caulson! But just you wait until the cult legendary Clark Gregg shows you what he has in store this season for a character and actor who is now so, so much more than the men in black like suit who used to deliver origin story Avengers exposition dialogue way before the original assemble. A Jon Connor like resistance fighter rebelling in this 'Terminator' like apocalypse. Wearing that 'Deadpool' dissing monochromatic wardrobe probably for the midnight showing of the new Mahershala Ali 'Blade' movie too. This new cut of the undead gone rogue feels so right, even if it looks so wrong. Aye, aye Sarge!

Sky is the limit for this series however. As Chloe Bennett's Daisy is still the saviour of world's superhero we all needed before a Brie Larson as Carol Danvers 'Captain Marvel' and even a Scarlett Johansson 'Black Widow' solo movie. Whilst like that type of Avengers assassin herself 'Mulan' legend Ming-Na Wen looks to put more people in the 'E.R.' these days then save them. Even the science bros of the dear departed Tony Stark (3000...three thousand) and Professor Hulk have nothing on the Fitz/Simmons lab partnership of great Scot Iain De Caestecker and Elizabeth Henstridge that can even miraculously make themselves look as young as their grandson (without the M.C.U. CGI) who looks strangely like Rocket Racoon (or a young Bradley Cooper to be exact) in the standout Jeff Ward. Ward becoming a series regular now like the yo yoing of Natalia Cordova-Buckley with two Bucky's, faster than a speeding uncle at your wedding reception when the buffet is now open. She's the heart of this series and it beats for the best Henry Simmons. The soul of this season. The new leader in this new direction. And who better than the Mack? The blunderbuss and axe bayonet wielding call to henched up arms who could probably even bench press Thanos, if he wasn't SPOILER ALERT inevitably clicked into submission by the "I am" in Iron Man already that is. Simmons like Fitz is the perfect fit with so much humanity and mind behind that frame of muscle. With Poitier poise and Denzel dignity he's the right man to lead S.H.I.E.L.D. into their next phase of generation behind one like Anthony Mackie's new 'Falcon and The Winter Soldier', Captain America. And if this really is going to be it next year for the ABC show like 1, 2, 3, then maybe one day for A.O.S. like hopefully the Netflix level heroes left out on the street there will be a Disney plus for the new Mickey Mouse Magic Kingdom home of Stan Lee's comic creations. Excelsior!

'Get Him To The Greek' style hallucinogenic trips and trademark Marvel quips make for some central comedy that helps offset the emotion ends that come out of nowhere and hit you like a Yo-Yo. One such scene involving an invading villain who plays host and snatches bodies like flayed residents of Hawkins, Illinois results in the best body swap scene on a constant loop since Washington's demonic 'Fallen'. Whistling along to the Rolling Stones as time really isn't on the side of a S.H.I.E.L.D. more paranoid than the time icon Robert Redford set off the "it's all connected", game and franchise changing events of 'The Winter Soldier', silver screen to series. But all hail this anti-Hydra however like Captain Rogers whispering to you in a comic book, Easter Egg lift riff. Because these 'Agents' in change are more than ones M.C.U. sideswiped and marooned in space for the last two seasons between the avenging events of 'Infinity' and 'Endgame'. They are in their own war now and it's going to take them to the end of the line. Are you with them? Because we are too. All the way down to the last Knight like the conclusion of DC's epic Batman begins 'Gotham' series that ended on the rooftops watching over the city. These two rival shows from the two big comic book juggernauts have strands of shared histories. But as the one that started it all goes the distance as the last one to leave the gym, like everything you see in the movies, Marvel leads the way today. And as this sixth season fares better than the out of the world last one, but still isn't touching the flames of 'Ghost Rider' and the Robbie Reyes solo season we can't wait for maybe Gabriel Luna and a whole host of six degrees of superhero separation M.C.U. actors will join the seventh seal showdown, before this show that has run longer than even any run of character origin story movies meets it's final curtain call. For more cameos than Samuel L. Jackson in season one. Or the resurrecting Brett Dalton, or recurring 'Far From Home' star Cobie Smulders, as the 'How I Met Your Mother' actress should really be a regular for this T.V. show now. But for the ultimate Avenger how about these Agents help a time travelling Cap put the infinity stones back? They've already mastered the H.G. Wells art. So how about one last trip to see the original Agent Carter with Captain Rogers for one last saved dance with his best girl sending him and us on our way? Then that would really make S.H.I.E.L.D. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Gotham', 'Krypton', 'Captain Marvel'.

REVIEW: ONCE UPON A TIME IN...HOLLYWOOD

5/5

Once Upon A Time In...America.

161 Mins. Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Emile Hirsch, Margaret Qualley, Timothy Olyphant, Dakota Fanning, Austin Butler, Mike Moh, Maya Hawke, Damian Lewis, Luke Perry, Bruce Dern, Al Pacino & Kurt Russell. Director: Quentin Tarantino.

Are you sitting comfortably? Then I'll begin. 'Once Upon A Time...In Hollywood', the penultimate, ninth film (he counts both volumes of 'Kill Bill' as one. So we do too) from Quentin Tarantino's top ten (unless he boldly goes with that R-rated Star Trek script...live long and please make it so) feels like that conclusion to the trilogy that began with the Hollywood history rewrites of 'Inglorious Basterds' and 'Django Unchained'. Save the like a 'Reservoir Dogs' warehouse, stage play perfect 'The Hateful Eight' as his literal eighth wonder in-between. As this movie concerning a top actor, yet falling star and his sidekick stuntman that carries that load, cleverly and cinematically incorporates inspirational, western and war themes of each. Anybody order fried sauerkraut? And it stars both Hollywood heavyweights from those respective movies, Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt as a Tinseltown actor that big and his stunt double in the shadow of this city of stars. All the way to the orgy of a typical but testimonial ultraviolent and emotive end. But in La La Hollywoodland it's the first time these two iconic signs of the industry have pulled out a packet of Marlboro smokes and shared a drink together at the counsel end of the bar with a celerey stalk for your tomato juice. Right before Al Pacino like Brian Blessed in 'Flash Gordon' (think Laura Dern in 'The Last Jedi'...PEW!), spit machine gun imitates DiCarprio imitating him as 'Scarface' like he was saying hello to an old, little friend. Yep...this movie is meta as f###. What more could you expect from a man that loves movies even more than Keanu Reeves at his own Chinese Theatre Walk of Fame star shining on Hollywood Boulevard? Breathtaking. This is pure uncooked cinema, crack movie. Just enjoy this ride as you acid trip like a dipped cigarette. And here's the itch. Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and Al Pacino sitting in a bar?! This isn't a joke! In the same movie? Pacino and Tarantino? And Kurt Russell too? And the late, great 80's heartthrob icon Luke Perry? Get the fuck out of here! This is the coolest, epic ensemble Q.T. has ever done since he put De Niro on a couch next to Samuel L. Motherf###### Jackson, after he just put Chris Tucker in a trunk for foxy Pam Grier's 'Jackie Brown'. Looks like there's even more stashed in that slashed Raptor bag. Roll film.

"That was the best acting I've ever seen in my whole life," a girl who can't be more than ten (so she's clearly not seen that much to go on) whispers in DiCaprio's fictional Rick f###### Dalton's ear whilst he cocks a six shooter to shoot a Western. No...this is the best acting we've ever seen. DiCaprio acting, acting. Or telling said girl what he's reading, but really saying what he's feeling. Akin in reflection representation of Pitt's Cliff Booth's drive in home to where stunt doubles of Hollywood's glitz and glamour really live. Blowing out his nose and stuttering through T.V. shows, Dalton is on his ass too. Which means his stuntman is even more so...and therefore probably getting the worst of these licks. Even if he can run across rooftops to fix your cable. "It's official old buddy. I'm a has been", Leo tells Brad through trademark conflicted man tears as he smoke 'em if you got 'em lights up another horse and lassoing cowboy (as if in reality either of these 'Hollywood' stars are). And guess who he's got living next door to him? It's a 'Wolf Of Wall Street' reunion daddy, as it's Margot Robbie whose in this movie like Miss Carlson, the klutz as Sharon Tate. So you know that we are about to get introduced to a family scarier than the Addams one in the Manson family. But will history repeat itself again? Or go more Tarantino's way for a director who solved his 'Basterds' Hitler late night writing issue by sketching on his notepad on his bedside table before he went to bed to wake up the following morning to, "just kill him"? The Australian Robbie was born to play a screen starlet as iconic Hollywood as the Tarantino texture (foot fetish and attention to dog food detail included) of this traditional big picture like Margot was Harley Quinn in 'Suicide Squad'. All the way down to costume department, thrift shop ripped. And the 'I, Tonya' Oscar nominated star is the real deal. Not just another femme fatale. But boy does she pay homaged tribute to all of them. It's DiCaprio and Pitt with the Hollywood who's who résumés though. And combined? Get out of here. 'What's Eating Gilbert's Grape'. 'Thelma and Louise'. 'Romeo + Juliet'. 'True Romance'. 'The Basketball Diaries'. 'Interview With A Vampire'. 'Gangs Of New York'. '12 Monkeys'. 'The Aviator'. 'Se7en' (WHAT'S IN THE BOX?! Sorry couldn't resist). 'Blood Diamond'. 'Seven Years In Tibet'. 'Shutter Island'. 'Fight Club'. 'Inception'. 'Oceans Eleven'. 'The Great Gatsby'. 'The Tree Of Life'. 'The Revenant'. 'Moneyball'. We could go on like 'Killing Them Softly' or 'The Assassination of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford' and 'Catch Me If You Can' or 'The Departed'. 'Inglorious', 'Django'. But here on trademark top form and a million miles away from when they both went to production battle over 'World War Z', the two megastars of Leo and Brad both give us arguably their best yet with finally their first time on screen together. Just watch them run commentary like the old buddies we believe they are. Tarantino is one of those rare geniuses who makes you want to be better at whatever it is you do. So imagine what that's like when it comes to these two. Which is just everything in this industry when it comes to these two leading men on their Scorsese way to being the closest best thing to a De Niro and Pacino of today...even though both those legends (one here) are still that themselves. This was already the makings of a classic when it was bright lights, big screen announced. And they more than deliver the film flash and star substance. Only in Hollywoodland.

Marvel movies fear. You'll never put a cape on DiCaprio. And that's it apparently after Brad Pitt's absolutely hilarious and perfect, best cameo yet in Ryan Reynolds' 'Deadpool 2' as the power lines fried Vanisher. You won't see him again like "don't call us, we'll call you" in this industry. And on the Q.T. and strictly hush, hush like 'L.A. Confidential' Q.T. movies like anything out the M.C.U. are still the type of epic events that have your high anticipations, eagerly awaiting them the morning they come out, like you just wish your shift at work could end already (subtle right?). And how perfect that still is for this classic celebration of cinema. 'Reservoir Dogs', 'Pulp Fiction', 'Kill Bill' volumes one and two, 'Inglorious Basterds', 'Django Unchained'. 'Once Upon A Time In... Hollywood' is right there with them as not only one of Tarantino's traditional best, but of modern movies as a whole. And he brings out the big guns like Rick Dalton with a shotgun. Or the next generation in acting stars in 'Killer Joe's' Emile Hirsch out of the wild here, 'The Nice Guys' breakout Margaret Qualley, 'The Carrie Diaries' own Austin Butler here looking like Taylor Kitsch's younger brother and former child star come of age Dakota Fanning. Not to mention 'Justified' star Timothy Olyphant in another western television role, red head 'Homeland' Brit Damian Lewis as a legendary Hollywood star (we'll never tell but you'll be able to as he nails it) and even Uma Thurman's daughter and star of the Summer, Maya Hawke showing just why she was so scene stealing as Robin in 'Stranger Things 3' in this Summer that changed everything. And then the guns get even flame thrower bigger like the fine girl that is Brandy the dog.  'Death Proof' drive stuntman Kurt Russell returning after his latest 'Hateful 8' western with some nuanced narration and a part to play in this epic ensemble for the legend of two cult classics in 'Big Trouble In Little China' and the 'Escape From New York' and 'Los Angeles' films for all you snakes (and don't think we forgot about 'The Christmas Chronicles' coming back tis season). And then there's the 'Godfather' of cinema. 'The Irishman'. 'Serpico'. Your 'Dog Day Afternoon' (my favourite film growing up...what a childhood), 'Panic In Needle Park', 'Scent Of A Woman' and 'Heat' star. You know who we're talking about. And glossed up in a Lakers purple suit, no joke and Dame Edna frames Pacino is perfect. Just like returning Quentin favourite and 'Nebraska' legend Bruce Dern in a whole host of Hollywood stars in this city we can't spoil. Even the late, great 'Beverley Hills 90210' legend Luke Perry in this 'Riverdale' age made it in one of his last and lasting performances. Even if the dear departed Burt Reynolds originally meant for this movie sadly did not. The iconic Perry even left Pitt and DiCaprio starstruck. Imagine that. Back when he ruled the world like his legacy and these two in a film and a town all about that still do. Right on the old California gold money Tarantino gets it right. Even if his portrayal of Bruce Lee in 'Green Hornet' Kato 'guise. for such a fun scene has drawn some cause for concern criticism from Lee's family. But you only have to visit Uma Thurman's costume department in 'Kill Bill' to see how much Quentin loves this martial arts muse. As does 'Street Fighter' and 'Inhumans' star Mike Moh having the time of his life fighting Pitt with a pitch perfect impersonation than becomes an inspired embodiment. All this, all the shows, store fronts, scored highways and classic Hollywood are roll called in Q.T.'s signed, sealed and delivered love script to classic California cinema, dreaming in the sixties when all the leaves were brown. Forget about the grey skies. This is what it's like if you lived in L.A. back then. Lights, camera and all that action. All this upon a time from Quentin Tarantino and in direction all we have left from him is once more my good friend. CUT! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Django Unchained', 'Inglorious Basterds', 'Jackie Brown'.

REVIEW: BLINDED BY THE LIGHT

4/5

Greetings From Luton Town, U.K.

117 Mins. Starring: Viveik Kalra, Kulvinder Ghir, Nell Williams, Dean Charles-Chapman, Aaron Phagura, Meera Gantara, Rob Brydon & Hayley Atwell. Director: Gurinder Chadha.

Born in the U.K. and born to run...away. 'Blinded By The Light' will show you like the illuminating neon of Asbury Park amusement arcades that tramps like us can escape our own death traps without a suicide rap. We can still get out while we're young. All it takes is a thunder road off the backstreets of E Street, out this Jungleland as the lightning hits you and all the electric, eclectic thoughts you've wrote. You don't have to be a runaway American dream, or a Jersey boy. You could be a kid from a small seaside town that reminds you of Asbury. Or you could even be from Luton. We can all identify with the Boss when our own one is telling us we're going nowhere...fast. We all get lost in the flood growin' up. Looking for a bus that will take us to 82nd street. Mary Queen of Arkansas or Javed King of England. Whether your from Houston or Luton. Bedfordshire or Bedrock...hey you know if he was real Fred Flintstone would drop the bill of that bird needle on some 'Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J.' This is for you. And when it comes to this spirit in the night, angel, saint or city. If you can't relate to a young British teen of Pakistani descent living in 1987 then you are missing the point and Springsteen's blue collar to boot strapped message that pulls with anyone who ties their shoelaces one at a time in the morning, waiting on a sunny day. The Boss is still working too. Oh boy you bet he is. Springsteen a month or so ago released his latest album and his first original set of material in years, with the solo songwriting standards of a Roy Orbison lonely cowboy in his rave reviewed 'Western Stars' fan favourite classic. Fresh off a Broadway tour that probably made more money for the working man's dream than even Springsteen had ever seen. So just when you thought he could put his boots up and call it a working day. Steston brim pulled down low, he's still grinding on this open road. Whilst his old American muscle car dreams of escaping from the seventies and eighties are still gunning down the highway or M6 and inspiring. Hello Sunshine.

Tougher than the rest, Viveik Kalra is a young Springsteen to the American dream. Writing his life away to a brand new day. As he from the heartland countryside looks at the motorway highway from his two star town to London like it's not all Big Smoke and mirrors. 'Bohemian Rhapsody', 'Rocketman'. Right now like Glastonbury it's a festival of great British music movies. 'Yesterday' they said a movie where Beatlemania didn't exist anymore was the feel good movie of the here comes the sun, Summer. And it was fifty years ago that day when a fab four called John, Paul, George and Ringo crossed some place called Abbey Road. Which is coincidentally how long it takes cars to drive through that iconic zebra crossing today. Although we wouldn't have it any other way. But this movie starring another true Brit is the jumping for 'Juno' orange flag joy, 'Billy Elliott' dancing in the dark like racing in the street flick, on the edge of a lucky town season. For all those with high hopes needing that human touch. As soon as that classic cassette is dropped on our boy wonders cafeteria lunch tray it's on like a food fight. Bananarama, Culture Club, Pet Shop Boys, Salt N PEPA (see John Mulaney as Patrick Stewart doing SNL), New Order, WHAM! This may be the Blondie 80's for a United Kingdom searching for that first part of their name like the States. But our hero here prefers a denim, bandana clad, white tee warrior Born in the U.S.A. And born down in a dead man's town he won't end up like a dog that's been beat too much. Despite the racism he faces in his own home country, like the same one Springsteen took shots at in what many subterfuge thought was his patriotic ode to his flag. President's or candidates wrongfully playing it at their rallies are really the ones getting played. Let's all take a knee like Kaepernick in respect. If the national anthems not for everyone, then it's for no one. Whatever country you sing for. But whoever you Brooooooooce sing for. Make sure you sing for equality and freedom and for your own one and sense of self. As this movie based on the life and 'Greetings From Bury Park: Race, Religion and Rock N' Roll' book by Guardian journalist Sarfraz Manzoor. Directed by brilliant 'Bend It Like Beckham' game changer Gurinder Chadha, with another Great British modern day, down to earth classic, shows as it puts a lens on Thatcher's Britain and the vile racism we can all in reflection learn from with what's going on today all around the world, that this movie is more than just Bruce Springsteen. Even if the soundtrack is the perfect playlist of Springsteen signature to add to your catalogue collection including some Cutting Crew and Human League 80's classics and the 'I'll Stand By You' unreleased rarity collectors item, originally wrote for Harry Potter. But instead all he sings about for all of us. Hard work. Survival. Heart. Soul. Dreams. Family.

Nostalgia. From Anthena stores to put up on your wall and HMV's (long live His Masters Voice...we're still singing) that have this writer who used to work in a closed down one in more bits than he was crying throughout this entire movie that scales every emotion like the motor guitar riff of a Springsteen song, this Smash Hit is full of it. Just like the cast who surround this poet played pitch perfect by Kalra like the headphones that play all those Boss songs as he turns traditions into a silent disco before getting down with his culture. Viveik is the star of the show. But even Springsteen needed the E Street Band. Even if this is set during the times through a 'Tunnel Of Love' divorce. There's his 'Doctor Who' starring friend Aaron Phagura. Who with the appropriate speech and stars and stripes flagged denim first introduces our teenage American dream to the popping of his Springsteen cherry...which for those who know their true Boss may be just as important as their actual one (and we're talking about they cherry here. Not the all work and no play). And as they pirate some Springsteen radio for a teen rebel heart scene that's straight out of a John Hughes movie, they end up in a musical number, running and two-stepping around town which gets them strutting across the bridge like 'The Breakfast Club' for a scene that don't you forget about. His other best friend Dean Charles-Chapman, whose starred in stage in 'Billy Elliott' of all musicals and 'Into The Badlands' for more Boss references, has a flock of seagulls haircut and is still a ladies man even though he looks a bit like Bono...but we can forgive him for that. Because he is a class act. Just like the legend that is his dad Rob Brydon on hand with the big name laughs. Along with the apple of Hayley Atwell's best teacher who really brings the worlds worth out this young man's words from the desk of class. How can you not be inspired in this American Dream deferred in Luton when you have both the boss Bruce and the love of Captain America's life on ice? And with his Wendy in the Go Go haired Nell Williams, who grew up to be Cersei in 'Game Of Thrones' (she's the one) our leading man has all he needs. A life worth living for, love and a song in his back pocket. Now only if he could get his car to start. Or get past the dreams of his father. As with his 'Goodness Gracious Me' alum parent partnering up in The Beatles 'Yesterday', Kulvinder Ghir deserves a Bafta here for a brilliant and conflicted classic performance of the kind of father and son Yusef Islam sung about when he went by the name Cat Stevens. And how about the moving mothering of the never quitting or complaining Meera Gantara with so much love? Funny, firm, but warm in heart, Ghir shows us what we all know is true, but are too afraid to say out loud. The relationship between father and son is often complicated. But it's all and nothing short of love...in its truest looking out for you form kid. And when they get to that you will too. Just know that he is proud. Father or son. Because this behind the notes scrawled down from the songs of the young man from Freehold (reminding this writer that for all the countless times he's been to New York he should have really made that New Jersey pilgrimage) is what this film is truly about. This time capsule shows that music is just as important as movies and in telling a story they go hand-in-hand, racing down the street too. Especially in concert with this year. 'Blinded By The Light' or 'Yesterday'. Like Dexter Fletcher's 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and 'Rocketman' or The Beatles and Springsteen, for this writer it's impossible to call it. But just know that these two iconic tales of two young men under the influence of inspiration are just as important as those two big legends of biopics. Take a right at the light, keep going straight until night and then boy you're on your own. Because mama this is where the fun is. From my hometown to yours in this land of hopes and dreams, 'Blinded By The Light' will show all you runners in the night that no matter who you are, you'll all make it...alright? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Yesterday', 'Bend It Like Beckham', 'Springsteen On Broadway'.

REVIEW: HOBBS & SHAW

3.5/5

The Fast & Furious: London Drift.

136 Mins. Starring: Dwyane 'The Rock' Johnson, Jason Statham, Idris Elba, Vanessa Kirby, Eiza González, Cliff Curtis & Helen Mirren. Director: David Leitch.

"Cowboy Up!" Demands Dwyane 'The Rock' Johnson as Jason Statham drift careens his convertible under two crossover converging lorries in a gear shift, halfway homage to how Vin Diesel did it in the 'Fast & Furious', "new model, original parts" vehicle and the truck stop heists this fuel franchise was all about in the catalyst ignition start. London's 'Luther' Idris Elba follows, suit leather-clad on a motorbike, handlebars to the cement, surfing concrete waves in the Big Smoke and rearview mirrors. Then these two knights face each other and charge like a horse drawn duel. Two-wheels up a windshield later and former 'Ghost Rider' villain Elba with a spirit of vengeance takes off like Keanu Reeves' Duke Caboom and crashes right on through the top bunk of a big, red double-decker. Now that's how you catch a bus and crash a glorious heavy metal mess of a blockbuster spin-off scene. Taking the wheel and a left turn until the wheels fall off and the rims underneath spark fireworks louder than Big Ben at midnight, New Year. DUM! Between The Rock and a car chase it seems Dwyane Johnson has come up with many a hard place despite his sensationally successful solo act, wrestling Hollywood down to the cinematic canvas of the pin position. Coming to blows with Vin Diesel on the eight set that wasn't even for the film? Beef with Tyrese all over at least one of their Twitter's? Being replaced by 'Bumblebee' 'Transformer' spin-off star John Cena for the ninth 'Fast and Furious'? Even 'Stuber' ride along star Dave Bautista throwing green sick emoji shade? It's like the royal rumble all over again for the former concrete cement, stacked wrestler. But what I'm raising my eyebrows at is are we still just glossing over the fact that Jason Statham's Shaw character actually killed Sung Kang's Han in Tokyo for that post credit tease done even more shock and awesomely over well than anything Marvel have ever revealed (until last month's 'Far From Home' adventure) for a franchise that seemingly has as much staying power as those flying capes, never running out of road or Heathrow runway (you gotta let that go)? Justice for Han like Barb. And here he steals his patent move too! What's that supposed to mean? "Ahh sorry I blew you up buddy, but here we go why don't I rip off one of your signatures and take all the credit"! Ponce! Wait...did I just call Jason Statham a Ponce? I'm out...

London balding. Even though 'Hobbs & Shaw' sounds like a boring, British biscuit brand this is anything but bland. Opening up a tin of whoop ass on the first official 'Fast & Furious' tyre screeching spin-off. Akin to The Rock's 'Faster' with the benched up bravado of one of his 'Skyscraper' or 'San Andreas' blockbusters to a fault. Offset by some classic comedy chemistry and camaraderie with the cranky 'Transporter' Statham, like Dwyane Johnson shared with the likes of 'Central Intelligence' co-star Kevin Hart (can't wait to see them partner up again in the 'Jumanji' sequel?) across many movies. The insults are a sign of affection you know. If you grew up in the United Kingdom you'd know all about that...prick! Tetesterone, petroleum and a whole bunch of sodium in what they say. This suped up nitrus-no spoiler-will jolt you out your riding shotgun, "ejecto seato" cuz! When this writer is watching films he often shuffle adjusts in his seat and sits up for the exciting parts. Really sitting forward and taking notice, pedal to metal. This movie is full of those type of moments. Pick a door. Like Jason Statham in a mirrored corridor chereography, reflecting his plane bad guy take down, holding the baby in 'F8'. A part that resurrects the ever underrated 'Mechanic' who always gets the job done (and how about a mini Easter Egg that actually may be much bigger?). Hitting you with everything from a toaster to a vest that's supposed to stop bullets...not your face. Like his side-splitting star in 'Spy'. Easily one of the most hilarious things in years. Or The Rock Indiana Jonesin an actual helicopter off the chain. GET DAT CHOPPER! The new Schwarzenegger and Stallone's running mate are far from 'Expendable', even if their hairlines like this writers are. What more could you expect from dynamic, dynamite director David Leitch who gave us some film starring some guy named Keanu called 'John Wick' and then the Berlin wall breaking 'Atomic Blonde' and then didn't let up on the action chereography on the superior sequel, 'Deadpool 2'? Fast out of the frying pan and into the fire. Allow 'Furious' to reintroduce themselves like Hov. And if you thought the Jay-Z trailer was terrific, PSA then just you wait until this one let's rip. You couldn't even squeeze a fart between all this action. Even if a few sneak out like snakes on a plane to Moscow's mother Russia, mother f##### on another international Fast before the Netflix animated 'Fast and Furious Presents: Spy Racers' streams. There's still plenty of miles on this one. Air, land or what seems like a sea of rain for a stormy showdown finale as these two Lethal Weapon's sing 'Why Can't We Be Friends' like War. You get plenty of crash, bang, packed wallop for your cash dollar and buck.

Brixton baby! Black Superman vs Black Adam and the champagne problem who has none of that when it comes to uncorking the bottle cap challenge...although he's no Jedi, Donnie Yen...none of us are. When it comes to Idris Elba we already know the Big Smoke is 'Luther's' town. But here his big, bad baddie that's genetically engineered to be 'Terminator' like and super-strong (WHAT?! Well this is a former street-racing franchise which hasn't ruled out going to space (that's one small gear shift for Vin...) in a future, futuristic movie (WHAT?!)) makes his not exactly by the book DCI look as sweet as Vandross with his knees up, epic entrance. The tweed jacket is gone. This may not be Bond...yet. But with a 007 license to kill, shaking things up, a pot stirring Idris is having so much fun here with a self driving steel horse in Iron Man helmet, visor vision featuring gold Heimdall forever accents. And who needs Bond when you're Black Superman? So much so Elba wants his own origin movie. And you should definitely crown one to 'Mission Impossible: Fallout' star Vanessa Kirby as Shaw's sister with Rolling Stone sibling synchronicity. Biting grenades, flipping shotguns and soldiering up with Black Widow ass kicking spy smarts. Stealing the show like she accepted in the mission with top gun Cruise. Holding her own with the two big lugs like she would if given the rig of her own movie. Kirby on the curb and cusp of it all is her own star power now. And this isn't the only royal affair in this Great British brake off. As 'The Crown' star is joined by the Queen herself leading a cluster of classic cameos that are all familiar like this franchise feeling for family we would love to, but would never kiss and tell. No no Liz drawing knighting swords, but Dame Helen Mirren darling. Reprising her role from the last 'Fast', but this time behind prison perspex. Albeit as foul mouthed and filthy rich as ever with an accented support alongside the likes of 'Training Day' and 'Live Free and Die Hard' character actor great Cliff Curtis and 'Baby Driver' crook Eiza González back in the drivers seat as the mobster Magherita (no not the pizza). But it's not all fish and chips in this Daily Express. As London town's Statham and Kirby join The Rock in his Samoan homeland in a beautiful tribute to the man and his people, as these 'Bad Boys' head away from the city too on a 'Rush Hour' like banter return ticket flight for this buddy rock dynamic. All to land a haka like war dance of bulging eyes and pulled tongues and old school weapons now the guns have been thrown into the sea like Idris' Nelson Mandela told you to. Let's dance! Because with this 'copter and truck facing off like Travolta and Nic Cage losing his s### and sliding off the side of a cliff. This will keep you hanging on for dear blockbuster life this August. It looks like you picked the right door Pennywise for this chapter too. 'Fast and Furious' present their first spin-off that wins by a mile. It's a franchise in its own found like cars in your cereal box for the man who likes his dessert first. So give me the damn veggies! This 'Meg' meets 'Rampage' meat and potatoes brawn may not have brains, but it will fill you up like a tank that never runs on empty. 'Hobbs and Shaw' is a sure thing. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Fate Of The Furious', 'Furious Six', 'Bad Boys II'.