REVIEW: DON'T LOOK UP

4/5

It's The End Of The World As We Know It...And I Feel Meh.

138 Mins. Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Rob Morgan, Jonah Hill, Mark Rylance, Tyler Perry, Timothée Chalamet, Ron Perlman, Ariana Grande, Scott Mescudi, Himesh Patel, Melanie Lynskey, Cate Blanchett & Meryl Streep. Director: Adam McKay. 

If the world was going to end in six months, what would you do? Who would you call? Or would you just scroll through your phone like it was just another day wasted as you 'Don't Look Up? The innovative writer/director of 'The Big Short' and 'Vice' Adam McKay explores this planetary quandary in his new hit disaster comedy for Netflix. Ever since he traded 'Anchorman', 'Talladega Nights' and 'The Other Guys' and seemingly sadly 'Step Brother' Will Ferrell for more political pointed satire as sharp as his subterfuge, McKay has become one of the freshest and best directors in the biz. He and John C. Reilly are about to change the game on HBO with Jerry Buss for 'Winning Time', a new series based on the 80's Magic led Showtime of the Los Angeles Lakers in all its purple and gold. But before that Adam's apple has the gold standard of another epic ensemble of all-stars that could head to the Academy of LA this February. He did the same with no shortage of superstars in 'The Big Short' (Bale, Carell, Gosling, Pitt) and then brought half of them back and more for his 'Vice' cabinet. Now with that Netflix money he gets to do the same and play around with even more big names worthy of a legendary legacy and one of the biggest movies on the planet this year in turn. The only thing bigger? The comet that's heading to earth with an 100% (or 99.something or other, like when Michael Jordan said he was 99.9999 and all those other 9's sure he wasn't coming back out of retirement again to the NBA. Good, so it's not 100% then, right?) chance of deep impact in this armageddon. And this time Michael Bay isn't training a team of drillers to be astronauts led by Ben Affleck who thought (like we all did) that they should have really done this the other way 'round. "Shut the f### up!" Because between the red hats and the pacifists the apathetic reaction to this world disaster is pathetic. It sort of reminds you of a certain vaccine and mask wearing hesitancy during our truly socially distant time of COVID-19. It's 2020 all over again. 

"The handsome astronomer can come back anytime, but the yelling lady, not so much." That handsome Dan is actually Leo. The AILF. Astronomer I'd like to...well, you know the rest. And Leonardo DiCaprio thought he had it bad on the disaster of the 'Titanic' when Kate Winslet wouldn't give him any room on that raft. Like 'Once Upon A Time...In Hollywood' right hand man Brad Pitt said in his 'Best Supporting Actor' acceptance speech at the Oscars...we would have schooched over. These days the end of the world is treated like a meme. And whilst DiCaprio dials up the trademark anxiety of his conflicted man to 11, Jennifer Lawrence is already there with red hair and a nose ring. And how good is it to have one of our best actors back after she started a family? Now sharing top billing with arguably the most acclaimed actor in Hollywood here. DO look up! This paired performance is perfect as they punctuate (DiCaprio can shout and boy so can Lawrence) and power each other to the finish...or is this the end? They'll need help too. And they have that in the form of Netflix everyman Rob Morgan. Whilst reviewing Sandra Bullock's new movie 'The Unforgivable' we talked about how Morgan and his lifetime Netflix deal are in everything. And that's nothing to apologise for. But here, he's truly something else. Shining amongst all the stars. Jonah Hill's super, super bad son of the President, defining puerile privilege and someone who definitely got his underqualified job on a recommendation. As sure as the fact that he learnt how to talk from Vince Vaughn's pimp in 'Be Cool'. But Hill plays it all perfectly. All the way to the end, left holding the handbag. Then there's Mark Rylance's super weird and surface wonderful tech billionaire CEO with plenty of Musk. The good (God) morning plastic positivity of 'Vice's' Colin Powell (Rest Peacefully) Tyler Perry and bombshell Cate Blanchett's (not since Tilda Swinton in 'Trainwreck' have we seen someone from the Academy play down so perfectly) television anchors that could make Burgundy blush. A trumped up Ron Perlman shooting bullets at the asteroid dubbed a "planet killer" ("he's from another time"). A scene stealing and even more shaggy as Joe Exotic like requested Timothée Chalamet, late in the game (he was busy watching is part in 'Dune'). Ariana Grande and Scott Mescudi (Kid Cudi) playing parody pop stars...you think this isn't much of a stretch? Just watch! Himesh Patel of 'Yesterday' fame blogging like there's no tomorrow (there isn't). A heartfelt Melanie Lynskey (yes the neighbour that used to stalk Charlie Sheen in 'Two and a Half Men' playing house) amongst the best of all the greatest actors here. And legend of legend Meryl Streep finally playing POTUS like the Queen deserves. But one that could almost make Trump look sane. Almost...we said almost. 

Stop worrying and learn how to love the bomb...or fireball that's hurtling towards earth. Because Birdman, this unexpected virtue of ignorance gives us the sickest satire since 'Dr. Strangelove'. Making America dumb again, this one will even leave the staunchest MAGA members scratching their red necks. That's what happens when the Oval Office is full of photographs of the leader of the free world and Steven Segal. This one is under siege...and the thing laying waste came from outer space. Watch this one! The core of what's in store her could well as be a story about the planets coronavirus pandemic. Forget a metaphor. But this is closer to the climate crisis that is already at epidemic levels. Scientists giving a second opinion to 'Don't Look Up' say it looks awfully like the madness they see on a daily basis. Because after all like the trailer says, this movie is "based on real events". "That haven't happened...yet" . Pay attention. It doesn't have to be prophecy when it's a world damned certainty. God has nothing to do with this. We do. So get your finger out your ass and stop sucking the thumb of inaction. We're literally fingerings the trigger, palming the very destruction of this third rock as we twiddle our thumbs...or keep them scrolling. This perfect parody is as matter of fact an actuality. You have been warned. But alas will we pay heed when critics and fans have been divided on a movie that could even put Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot's biggest Netflix opening 'Red' version on notice? Just like the dividing lines of the "United" States of America. What a state this reflection is in with those who are urging us to "Just Look Up", whilst others want to put this movies title on a crimson cap as Streep dances across the stage passively and blissfully ignorant like Theresa May robot walking to the podium. Slick editing in direction like no other, all the way to the words across the screen, a killer soundtrack and classic cameos (a very big American actor looks like he's doing his best continuation of a parodying character from a previous movie against the world. Although Matthew Perry was cut for time, Friends. No one told him life was gonna be this way. Clap. Clap. Clap) is Adam McKay's calling card. But there's more substance to his style here. And if we as an audience in this watching world don't abuse that. Then things actually could look up. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Big Short', 'Vice', 'Dr. Strangelove Or: How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love The Bomb'. 

REVIEW: THE KING'S MAN

4/5

All The King's Men.

131 Mins: Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton, Rhys Ifans, Matthew Goode, Tom Hollander (x3), Harris Dickinson, Daniel Brühl, Djimon Hounsou & Charles Dance. Director: Matthew Vaughn. 

Statement. I wasn't totally enthused by a 'Kingsman' prequel. Not set in the fuddy duddy times of ye olde England. Not after the anti-Bond meets Marvel alternative, 'Kingsman-The Secret Service' had really set something off like cigarette lighter grenades. That was sick! After the super sequel, 'Kingsman-The Golden Circle' went Stateside, I wanted a Statesmen sequel (I still do). Especially after made star Taron Egerton ('Eddie the Eagel') and a cameoing Sir Elton John (stay at home with 'The Lockdown Sessions') were duetting and rolling the new dice for another Marv movie based on the 'Rocketman's' life that was set to be another 'Bohemian Rhapsody', following the yellow brick road like a man made of tin, straw, a cowardly lion and the red shoes of Dorothy. Still, there's no place like good ole Blighty. And a long way from Kansas (Kentucky to be exact, colonel), with a stetson rocking Jeff Bridges, the go, go gadget tricks up Halle Berry's sleeve and Channing Tatum spinning a blunderbuss 'round like Schwarzenegger on the back of a chopper, we still really need to get to this movie. But you can't tell where you going if you don't know where you've been and 'The King's Man' has come a long way. And it's been a long time coming to boot. It would be redundant and a little like showing off if I kept mentioning that this Brit now lives in Japan. But I came here before corona in late 2019 and there was already posters advertising this movie playing in January, and now it's here a few weeks before...TWO YEARS LATER! That's how long it has been with the virus holding up more things then you when you're looking for your cinema ticket, arms full of popcorn and other concessions. But for all the blockbusters pushed back (most starring actors from this movie), 'No Time To Die', 'A Quiet Place II', 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage' (amongst many more) this one might not only be one of the pleasant surprise best, but also the greatest, darkest and deepest, most moving 'Kingsman' yet. As affecting as its undeniable energy. Emotional and hand to the heart felt. Take a bow. All hail. 

God save the Queen. Or the M that replaced Judi Dench. As this 'Kingsman' franchise is about to do for Ralph Fiennes what it did for Colin Firth's post 'Pride and Prejudice' tightly wound like a corset career. 'The English Patient' legend even has his version of 'The King's Speech' icons "there is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self" speech. Creeds we should all live by. Gentlemen or scholar. Speaking on reputation and character. "Our enemies think of us as gentlemen. But, Reputation is what people think of you. Character is what you are." Says his Duke Of Oxford. Forget Oxford not brogues, these are Oxford's not rogues as the 'Kingsman' suit up again in this tailor made origin story that sets up a 'Kick Ass' Matthew Vaughn's cinematic universe of super spies like the Mark Millar comics did for the 'First Class' X-Men director. With more cameoing surprises and left turns that blindside you, coming out of nowhere, boy. A fine Fiennes of 'Bond' M, 'Harry Potter' Voldermort and Wes Anderson's 'The Grand Budapest Hotel' fame gives us the performance of his life in a career of underrated, understated, unanimously undeniable ones. 'The Dig' star digging in and giving us all he's got. Whether he's called to action, or overcome with emotion. And if that wasn't enough, he has another Bond star in Gemma Arterton ('Quantum Of Solace') by his side. Who is no Moneypenny, but more like a Black Widow spy who is always cleaning up after you boys that are "so messy". Just like 'Gladiator' Djimon Hounsou is more than the Butler, but a brilliant right hand man who has more of a roundhouse than your average sidekick. Coming off 'A Quiet Place Part II' Hounsou makes noise in a brilliant post-dinner fight, still in his tux. All clanging metal like silver service trays as these swashbuckling set pieces go gold, making music. Going up against Rhys Ifans' formidable foe Rasputin with Rapunzel sink drain hair, that doesn't need to be let down, but instead have a comb seen through it. As the Lizard of Spider-Man's 'No Way Home' plays the Russian mystic Holy Man with a snakey stance Voldermort would be proud of as Ralph wrecks him with ballerina banter. All before breaking out the bakewell for you tarts. But if I told you a four star movie would include Rhys Ifans and his crummy beard licking Ralph Fiennes thigh you would have thought I had gone as crazy as the soft core segue into the truly bizarre. 

Crown jewels even need a bit of spit and polish however and this one does thanks to Vaughn's vision or the army artillery, military minds of stars of 'The Crown' Matthew Goode and Charles Dance. As this legacy making and legendary actors are already decorated, but show here why they've earnt their medals. Add a cubed Tom Hollander playing three roles whilst everyone is trying to ask Tom Holland how many Spider-Men there are and you really have a versatile, all-star, class cast. How about three Kings? Or something similair for this deal. Even the 'Rush' of Zemo Marvel and 'Inglorious Basterds' star Daniel Brühl is here to promise more for this prequels own villainous franchise spinning off. Whilst there are a few more big names we simply would love to share, but refuse to spoil as here in Japan we are dodging Spidey spoilers like Keanu back in 'The Matrix' does bullets, until after we take our decorations down on the 7th of January. But for all the King's at hand here, this third installment playing its cards close to its chest really play an ace in the hole for someone set up as the future of this franchise. 'Postcards From London' actor Harris Dickinson (with a name and countenance as British as crumpets and tea) starred as John Paul Getty III in FX's 'Trust'. But the 'Maleficent' sequel star is truly magnificent here. He was made for this movie and the future of the Kingsman seal. And when he goes to war in a movie that really gets into the trenches of warfare and what it's really worth when so many young men come home as folded flags really shows the emotional core of this movie that will mortar shell shock you to yours. Your tears burning like mustard gas. At times you'll think you're watching '1927' the way this Nicholas Hoult in 'Tolkien' like true telling of the war gets so close to the date here in this shifting narrative that still shoots straight with a true aim to the timeline and story thread. It's similar to the epic, encompassing, moving moments of 'Wonder Woman' taking a wartime stance, but with much more hallowed and harrowing realism stuck in the mud. It's what turns this very high achieving movie into one that clears the bar, when everyone thought it was going to be a Fosbury flop. Now how's that for a personal best? Medalling, this one is worthy of a knighthood. Making the round table of these Kings complete. New statement, the Statesmen can wait. After these three Kings conclude this Christmas, I'm singing their praises like "Orient are". TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Kingsman-The Secret Service', 'Kingsman-The Golden Circle', 'No Time To Die'. 

TV REVIEW: CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM - Season 11

4/5

She Plonked. 

10 Episodes. Starring: Larry David, Jeff Garlin, Susie Essman, J.B. Smoove, Cheryl Hines, Ted Danson, Vince Vaughn & Richard Lewis. Directed By: Robert B. Weide. 

A dog is for Larry, not just for Christmas. 'Tis the season my family finally got a dog...or a pooch, as my mother affectionately calls them. My sister rolled out a Sausage Dog just after Christmas Day and out came the names. Frank. Rocky. Larry. I vowed that if it was the latter I would move home from Japan, buy a chocolate labrador and name it Mocha Joe as I drink from the Latte Larry mug she got me last Christmas. But that was barred. Or better yet, call it Susie so we could go on dog dates in the park and Susie could bark at Larry like, "OK, Larry get the f### out my park!" Alas my plan like many in life and this year turned out to be directed by Robert B. Weide. So cue the iconic, comedic frolicing Luciano Michelini theme (it goes over a scene from 'Squid Game' like it does 'Se7en', no spoiler alert, just trust me) music like a meme. 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' Season 11 on HBO Max is here. And for people like me and my sister, who still think exchanging Larry themed Christmas cards and saying things are "pretty, pretty good" (or "splendid" thanks to a cubed Bill Hader) is hilarious, this season this fall is exactly that. Even if Larry David's 90's golden era gem 'Seinfeld' has finally made its way to Netflix, which gives me nine seasons worth of a train to Tokyo every morning for the next six months...even if I do want to shove that bass guitar up Jerry's pretzel thirsty ass. Falling over ourselves like Kramer, that show is good...but it could be 'Frasier'. And it may be chicken before the egg, but somehow 'Curb' just gives us more enthusiasm. Is this still CNN? I don't know maybe that will cause offence. Meh! 

"When are you gonna die. Will you please just die." They are the worst words you've read in your life, right? You don't even want to say them. Well I promise you the way a laughing with surprise at even how far he's taken it Larry David, has never delivered something more affectionately and beautifully as he welcomes his castmate and long time comedy club friend Richard Lewis back to the show, warmly. Refusing to pussyfoot around his partner ("I'm sorry, are we married? Am I dating you") who returns to the show after recovering from three significant surgeries. Lewis appreciating the genuine gesture, hidden behind jest in a lovely moment that reminds you this show is still improvised and still how inspired that is. And just wait the man in black hits back as he takes to his wardrobe like Cabana wear moths. This is his best line since "call me by sundown", Gary Cooper. Lewis like Larry back with the hilarious one-liners, social assassin faux pas' and Chaplin like physical comedy that knocks it over the five-foot fence, is a bona-fide, bony legend too (hey, skinny people can call other thin men that). Add 'The Book Of Leon' and all J.B. Smoove's House Husband, "Stockholm tapping" quotables. The marriage of comedic convenience in the screaming until you're hilariously hoarse Jeff Garlin and the music to my ears Susie Essman (check her Spotify album release), that will never get the f### out. Cheryl Hines and the 'Cheers' of Ted Danson still going steady and testy with Larry. And an improv legend on a legendary improv show Vince Vaughn (the moment where he burns himself in his closet is classic, gregarious Vinny) practically becoming a series regular as a Funkhouser in perfect tribute to the late, great genius Stewart Robert Einstein. And you have one hell of a show to plonk yourself down for, this season. 

Sōdesu. From offending Japanese waiters (what else is new), to actually ripping off 'Chappelle's Show's' Oscar speech walk off music, everyone can get it as this show wraps it up. But 'Only Fools and Horses' Del Boy falling through a bar has nothing on Larry walking into a pane of glass. No greater GIF can better describe my life this year (stepping into 2022 like). Or Larry's stuck between a rock and a hard place as his 'Young Larry' show (how about a spin-off?) meets an "actress" whose father blackmailed her way in due to a lack of fencing around a pool. Yep, it doesn't get much better or improvised than that in a season that greets us with the return of Larry himself, Jon Hamm ("come and take a look at this Jon Hamm"), COVID hoarder Albert Brooks having his own pre-death wake (he isn't even ill. But he is sick), Ted Danson's old barman Woody Harrelson bringing grape carnage, a viking Seth Rogen, a holy trinity of Bill Hader's (one of the funniest men alive) and more Mary Ferguson's than you could shake a phone book at. All coming into the horizon of the Strauss '2001: A Space Odyssey', 'Also Sprach Zarathustra' theme for this brave new world that is actually Larry's triggering bald head causing an eclipse for this writer that is losing more lines than he is Bumble matches. It's a new world, but it's the same old bald f###...and we wouldn't have it any other way. Season 11 of Curb may just be one of the best yet. And you can't fence that in. Ba dum bum! TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: Pretty, pretty, pretty much nothing is like this...oh, and 'Seinfeld'...that's now on Netflix for the nostalgia and annoying bass for your face. 

TV REVIEW: HAWKEYE - Season 1

4/5

Wrapped In A Bow. 

6 Episodes. Starring: Jeremy Renner, Hailee Steinfeld, Tony Dalton, Fra Fee, Alaqua Cox, Linda Cardellini, ?, ? & Vera Farmiga. Creator: Jonathan Igla. 

Genuine grit. Ever since being robbed of the Oscar in 2010 (despite Melissa Leo being 'The Fighter' that she is), Hailee Steinfeld's aim has been true. And now the 'True Grit' star displays great poise. The actress slash singer 'Pitch Perfect' as Kate Bishop in Marvel's new 'Hawkeye' series on Disney + with the Ronin of the hour himself, Jeremy Renner. Coming home for the holidays wrapped in a big boss battle bow in Steinfeld's charismatic coming of age series as New York, New York as the 'Seinfeld' bass for the streets. From the curb to firing lines above the scraping sky, your enthusiasm for this epic will never misfire. Even in the face of a one eyed seeing pizza dog. Because these six slices from the arrow bag hit the target like a pizza saver. All with the purple reign of some of the coolest comic callbacks to David Aja's arrows in title sequence. Cracking open their own Easter Eggs this Christmas. 'Tis the season for Marvel to be home for the holidays and deck the Disney + halls of features with something really magical before 'The Book Of Boba Fett' is taken off the 'Star Wars' shelf. With that Christmas in New York feeling like the new Norah Jones holiday album 'I Dream Of Christmas' being performed live atop the Empire State Building. This skyline as most world famous as Madison Square Garden acts as its own character here like the city of New York that always looks city steam fresh in every show it's in. Opening up the hallmark 'Hawkeye' seasonal series wrapped in tinsel and fairy lights and of course one big bow. 

Made you look. They shootin'! Tricked you with the arrows like Iron Man in the coming out of retirement 'Civil War' . Because is that two? As the Clint Barton and Kate Bishop twin birds in the nest are about to fly the coop with a bigger bag of tricks than Strange's spells that have already turned NYC into a 'Multiverse Of Madness' before his very own movie next year. Check out the poster. But there is no way we will spoil the big surprises or the crossover potential of this one just like 'Spider-Man: No Way Home' which we still haven't seen (because Japan). But let's just say as much as we would love to talk about them they are big, like the expanded universe here and all the toys Disney can play with now they've provided Marvel with an even bigger sandbox to dig through (finding more than the rentering of the Sandman). The Marvel Cinematic Universe is just getting that much bigger, let alone the Big Apple that's just seen a Cap shield Statue Of Liberty showdown to rival the original 'X-Men' that we still (thankfully) no nothing about. But how about that new 'Matrix' movie...because that's all we can talk about right now. After the genre and game changer MCU small screen debut with the 'WandaVision' tragic sitcom, which is by far the most original thing they've ever done. Kevin Feige's assembled ensemble gave us 'The Fal...(I'm sorry), Captain America and The Winter Soldier (I'm sorry if you haven't already watched it. Yeah right. Like you haven't)' for your stars and stripes. And then the devilish trickery of the God 'Loki' and our first multi-verse foray with He Who Remains. This fall, it was always going to be a tough act to follow. Especially with the 'What If' of more multi-dimensonal universal ponderings with Jeffrey Wright for The Watcher. But with cupid capturing chemistry in a fatherly way between Barton and Bishop, this 'Hawkeye' flies. And how about Bishop giving it up for a real, flawed, but still worthy hero like Barton with one hell of a character arch? As they yellow and orange plastic seat take a steel subway carriage to each stop they can't cape to. All the way to a Hulk huge finish. But for the record...they don't have a Hulk. Or Dr. Banner. But the 'She Hulk' series coming soon like the highly anticipated 'Ms. Marvel' and 'Moon Knight' between top actors Oscar Isaac and Ethan Hawk(eye) will do. With Mark Ruffalo ruffling the feathers for another smash. Well...this is some Christmas. 

Bullseye like Daredevil (also not here...and don't ask me about 'No Way Home'...I have no way of knowing). What more could you expect from a series that one shot in the rear view mirrors gives us a classic car on classic car chase that's all muscle, Trust A Bro removal and arrows that hit so big they could split the Brooklyn Bridge in two? That may be the best scene of the series. Trust a bro. But with heartfelt dedications to Scarlett Johansson's 'Black Widow' and some rooftop battles that really go the distance, what more could you ask for? A couple of dark Ronin scenes that are more than flashbacks for those who loved his 'Endgame' battle with Japanese legend Hiroyuki Sanada (the 'Mortal Kombat' star getting sliced up twice after 'The Wolverine'), lost in Tokyo's translation? You got it, Samurai! Some original Avengers assembling flashbacks from the Battle of New York that would be your genuine pleasure? But it's the epic and engaging emotion that really earns this like the 'Endgame' opening that ashes to ashes gave us the realest of the Thanos finger clicking dusting....until we see a cool concept come back together here for a blip. And when our two 'Hunger Games' survivors put on the Christmas films and ugly sweaters for some sofa solace, you'll clench up in a different way, Legolas. Around the same time 'Bumblebee' star Hailee Steinfeld was earning her spurs with Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon, 'Wind River' with Scarlet Witch star Jeremy Renner was on the triple-threat franchise beginnings of his life after his Hawk debut in 'Thor'. After 'The Hurt Locker' standout alongside former Falcon Anthony Mackie broke out of Ben Affleck's 'Town' he was set to take over both 'Misson: Impossible' from Tom Cruise and 'The Bourne Legacy' from Matt Damon. Still, some things like Oscar's don't happen (you try and take over from two of movies most marketable, Hollywood household names and biggest stars), but just look at these two now. Stepping into and suiting up to their twin leading potential ambitions with their "if you step out that door you're an Avenger" moment. Shooting straight with more than Marvel money, but one Christmas gift that will keep giving in spin-offs and made movies for these newer Avengers. Because a pizza dog is for life. Not just for a slice in the microwave the next morning. One moment were Kate lends an ear and a helping hand to Clint when talking to his family on the phone is absolutely beautiful...even more so when you find out why she's doing this. Echoing like Alaqua Cox's amazing, inspiring villain that will start a new generation of anti-heroes in this New Avenger age. Showing young deaf actors can be heroes too. What a great influence. Even with the tracksuits and bats of bad Soprano impressions and Imagine Dragons fans surrounding her. Led by a fantastic Fra Fee, cashing in on this world's stage after his time in the Royal Court of West End and Broadway. Add a moustached 'Better Call Saul' swashbuckling standout in Tony Dalton and one of the best actors any Marvel moment has had in Vera Farmiga, and there's so much more than meets the Hawkeye. Especially with the two big surprises we simply won't soil cameoing like Linda Cardellini and the whole family, even if the cat is out the bag. We wouldn't want someone to do this to us with 'No Way Home', so...again, no way. Just watch. Because this yuletide seasonal show from 'Mad Men' Jonathan Igla this wonderful winter is right on time. All aiming towards a formidable finale Rockefeller rocking under the iconic Christmas tree. Now how about a Broadway version of 'Rogers The Musical' on ice that finally confirms a small fan theory playing with fans? Because we could sing this all day. Trying to make it home for the holidays on 'Planes, Trains and Automobiles' like only I wish I could (miss you, love you, family). Back to the same backyard that housed all that target practice. Good job, Hawkeye. Go get your arrow. This one's a holiday hit, targeting the seasonal crowds. It's the most Marvellous time of the year. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'WandaVision', 'Captain America and The Winter Soldier', 'Loki'. 

REVIEW: THE MATRIX - RESURRECTIONS

 

4/5

There Is No Pencil.

148 Mins. Starring: Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick, Jonathan Groff, Neil Patrick Harris, Priyanka Chopra Jones, Christina Ricci & Jada Pinkett Smith. Director: Lana Wachowski. 

Red light. BLUE LIGHT! One pill makes you larger. And one pill makes you small. But follow the 'White Rabbit' like Jefferson Airplane, Alice and you may just find yourself resurrecting 'The Matrix' with a morphed Morpheus. WOAH! Time to fly. Even if the lack of a legacy making Laurence Fishburne reunion that we got with Keanu Reeves in 'Parabellum' is as disappointing as the corona botched 2020 original idea to have both 'The Matrix' and 'John Wick' 4 come out on the same damn day. People would ask, "which one will you choose"? Uhh...both! Duh! Movie night at the Apollo. There's still no need to dodge this though. Even if everyone is talking about who actually (no spoilers please. We don't get it here in Japan until JANUARY 7TH) is in this new 'No Way Home', Spider-Man multi-verse this weekend and forgetting about this 1999 beginning franchise that changed the cinematic games advanced future for all sorts of heroes that call themselves 'The One' (from NBA legend Shawn Marion's nickname, to even an R&B singer naming himself after Neo. Now that's so sick). Forgot about it like Dre. How that's for a raging early 2000's reference like Nokia brick sliding phones that opened up with a clunk that we thought were the future, millennials? But this 'Matrix' movie completing the Keanu Reevaisance is still the one like Shania Twain. Looks like they made it after all. After the first original classic came into code like the most iconic science fiction since the cyberpunk neon of 'Blade Runner' (that had it's own fresh and original sequel a few years ago back in '2049'), the second reload was some dumb fun, action hit a minute. Whilst the third revolution? Well, the less said about that the better, with more Smith's than the phone book. But still, on the whole it was a terrific trilogy. And here's the birth of a new one in this 'Star Wars' reboot age. You'll either love it or hate it. I'm the absolute former. Don't at me. Just unfold your arms. It was never going to be the same when this outcast changed the whole world. And this one has a problem with authority. Sure some moments will have you cringe against the machine (and the machinery that now moves in the same insect like formation of 'Dune'), but others will have you cheering from IMAX to your own laptop screen at home in HBO Max, like the first time you saw Neo fly and pick up Morpheus and Trinity to complete the big-three on the back of a big wheel lorry. Is 'The Matrix' a cult classic hidden in blockbuster films big framework? Or is it the greatest science fiction love story ever told in this San Francisco Golden Gate, opening up a 'West Side Story', minus the music in the bay? It's déjà vu all over again as Yogi Berra once said. But you'll love this pitch like the luck of a black cat. And all for the green digits in this lagging world of lapping up cryptocurrency, streaming and scrolling, this is no glitch. 

Marvellously meta and so self aware like another Warner Bros property, 'Space Jam-A New Legacy' (were even 'The Chosen One' 'Bron got to be the one). This Lana Wachowski (one sibling now, the sister) directed dynamo is a wowzer. But we won't spoil it like a certain Marvel spider movie that has the likes turning to the web to spin stories of how much they love it. That's all well and good, but don't be like Homer Simpson when he walked out of 'The Empire Strikes Back'. We're dodging this all like Neo does bullets. But I'm saying one day...you won't have to. And we'd love to run our mouth on just how good all this ironic inspiration is throughout this movies influence, but our lips are truly sealed like Keanu's in that interrogation scene from the first movie that back then was so horrifying were still checking our belly buttons for bugs. And that ain't no fluff. Now Reeves is a John Wick hair, don't care, bearded and tweed jacket revolution in this resurrection. The leather and the guns, lots of guns, doesn't matter so much behind black shades. Maybe he was jaded by all the copycat killers like the clowns who think they are the Joker (we even had one terrorising a train here in Tokyo of all peaceful places, this Halloween). Which means Wachowski's wonderful movie is saying so much more than it already has for the world it predictably told us would happen over twenty years ago. When back then it seemed like we were on the precipice of a brand new world and not the treadmil zombified exercise of a smartphone. Jaded definitely is the word as a beanie hat wearing Reeves is in an elevator surrounded by people holding smartphones like they were Beanie Babies in the 90's, wanting to get off like Captain America just asked him. It's the same reflection in the mirrored ceiling for this man who looks a little shimmer and glimmer different. So much so he's wiping away steam from the shower in his bathroom one to get a closer look at what appears like his eyes are deceiving him. Blue prescription pills falling around him in his sink as everything is blue like a Halsey song, or Joni Mitchell album. Even his therapists glasses are prescribed that way. It's enough to feed your head with enough information to have you wanting to curl up in your bathtub like 'I Am Legend' with a rubber duckie on your mind and a drop of bathwater falling like a tear. Keanu is as cool as movies about cats named after the dog lover. And this impressionist look is as convincingly good as that 'Chappelle Show' impersonation. From rooftops to office block cubicles is helicopter and sprinklers. Dialled and embyotic pod plugged in to the shaved head and not so slick, real world, non-flossed fashions that looks like something out of 'Zoolander's' 'Derelicte' collection. But this time without the need of a phone booth like Colin Farrell. And the moment Reeves walks straight to the switched up third act, boots in slow motion with the score like the 'Judgement Day' of a terminating franchise only this one could say "hasta la vista" too, you know it's on again like, "please remove any metallic items you're wearing." Keanu has the keys again like another meta 'Bill and Ted' moment for the seemingly self serious, but at times actually funny, dry guy, who's bringing more franchises back than Marvel, waiting on his turn to fly the cape. Whoa indeed! 

But have we met? Because when we first see Reeves reunite with Carrie-Anne Moss (who has been lawyering up for Marvel and Netflix's street-level, defending heroes as of late) in a clinically cool coffee shop in this safe, sanitised sim like city (a far cry from the symbiote of fellow B movie, blockbuster beauty 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage' also wreaking box office havoc right now), it's like wiping your arse with silk, or something out of a sitcom ('The Matrix Years'). What more could you expect when Barney Stinson is in this movie? But forget how they met. Besides Neil Patrick Harris is actually a formidable dramatic actor, like the blood soaked sheets of 'Gone Girl' and many more proved. And once Reeves and Moss gather more than rolling stones, as they ride out on a steel horse, with more than bullets flying around them, you'll be glad you left the HBO at home and joined the IMAX box office to really take it to the maximum. The only thing more thrilling is the Shinkansen scene heading to Tokyo and the Mount Fuji cherry blossom beautiful backdrop via the bathroom. Even ripping the claws out of 'The Wolverine' scene that saw Logan in translations run, taking train tops to new speeds that would have even more than Dennis Hopper's big bad losing his head. But how is this a Matrix film without a real holy trinity? Fishburne may be fondly missed, but Manhattan 'Watchmen' in a blue suit and 'Candyman' star in an orange one Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, on a career year (he also has the 'Aquaman' franchise in his rank), does more than a respectful inspired impression like Josh Brolin does Tommy Lee Jones' Agent K in 'Men In Black III'. All the way down to the frown inducing shades with no handle, holding two submachine guns and oozing charisma. Dancing around the television set and nostalgia, he's really having fun, flying. Making that jump Yahya redefines Morpheus and even has a Manhattan, or familiar cocktail. Chocked full of epic easter eggs he also Ali shuffles to another fight in an even more beautiful dojo this fall. Unlocking more hidden rooms and secret passageways than the doors of 'The Adjustment Bureau', without a funny hat. But coming out of another one, it's the best thing about 'Iron Fist' (you think that not hard, but what about the 'Ozark's' Tom Pelphrey?), Jessica Henwick becoming one with Carrie-Anne again in pill bottled blue hair that steals the show. In a coded cast that includes Broadway, Tony nominated and Grammy winning 'Mindhunter' Jonathan Groff truly putting on a show like tick, tick...Boom! And Bollywood superstar, Yahya 'Baywatch' co-star and one of Time's most 100 influential, with more power than a Jonas Brother, Priyanka Chopra Jonas wonderfully hiding in plain sight in this bespectacled wonderland. There's even a cool cameo from Wednesday Addams herself Christina Ricci that clicks. Not to mention the return of Jada Pinkett Smith, even if there's no Larry. The icon and mama kin with wicked wisdom to the new worlds most famous family who reloaded this franchise after Will said no way to Neo for one Mr. Smith we'll never see. Replacing original R&B queen Aaliyah after her tragic passing for a film shrouded in secret tragedy. The late, great lead singer of INXS Michael Hutchence was also rumoured to have a role. But for all the new ammunition this gun cocks and all that's left in the chamber, bullet time is back. And this is one resurrection we want that we can have brought back to the big screens we return to. So slow it all down and enjoy it. This one does more than bend the spoon, shoving the red pill up your ass. It's a reloaded revolution. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Matrix', 'The Matrix: Reloaded', 'The Matrix: Revolutions'. 

REVIEW: THE UNFORGIVABLE

3.5/5

Forgive Me Not. 

114 Mins. Starring: Sandra Bullock, Vincent D'Onofrio, Jon Bernthal, Richard Thomas, Linda Emond, Aisling Franciosi, Rob Morgan & Viola Davis. Director: Nora Fingscheidt. 

Unforgivable like the bitter version of a Nat King Cole classic, Sandra Bullock is unforgettable too as she takes off the 'Bird Box' blindfold for her new deal with Netflix. 'Bruised' like Halle Berry's directed MMA fighter, Bullock is at her brutal best going all in, out the cage. Able to duke it out with the Sports Illustrated dubbed 'Monster's Brawl' of Berry for the title this award season. In two of the greatest shots of redemption since a prisoner made 'The Mustang' his cell mate, from two 90's icons of the golden era like MJ. This last waltz this fall from Sandra sees her dance with the devil however, playing a cop killer. Truly 'The Unforgivable' like the 'Unforgiven' British ITV series from Sally Wainwright that this movie is was based upon. Even in this weary world of police brutality, how can you get behind a character like this in a tough watch that will have you wanting to look away more times than that "red light, green light" doll in 'Squid Game'? Well...just watch. On the surface this may look like the only thing worse would be to see that almost laughable if it wasn't horrendous Hollywood pitched idea to have Julia Roberts play Harriet Tubman (blame the studio, not Julia. Her name was just being thrown around and used. Her reputation shouldn't be in this cancelling world of pitch forks not always aimed true and the right way). But the 'Gravity' of this is a powerful performance of real acclaim amongst something that sometimes plays like the Sunday matinée of another melodrama on your channel hopping television set. It's like when a mothering Julia Roberts gave us her all, from 'Pretty Woman' to 'Erin Brokovich' and then 'Ben Is Back'. Or like when Sandra went from 'Speed' (whilst her co-star Keanu is resurrecting 'The Matrix' this weekend like a 'Lake House' reunion) to 'The Blind Side', to now this. The blockbusters and the Oscar's have come. This is now just another legend crafting their cinematic legacy in the nuances of powerful performances that will go down in their storied career history, no matter what envelopes next February read like the wrong name on valentines. 

Release date like last week on the streaming service (apologies for the late pick-up. Its Christmas traffic. You're still waiting on that 'Squid Game' review, right? It's coming). A fistful of dollars and a couple of smirks like she's going to be revolving prison door right back. As she carries her cardboard like a fired employee her a thousand yard stare has only one thing on her mind. The millions of miles between her and her very younger sister she movingly played parent to after she too became a motherless child with dear Dad far from this world too. Flashbacks take us back to a time were holed up in a country home with a shotgun, standing by the phone she refuses to come out to the cop cars that have this place surrounded like no way out. Her sister sat below, crying on the kitchen floor. Then we hear a BANG! And see a body. It's got the unmistakable green beret like jacket of a trooper. One that radioed in like a friend. How is she going to get out of this one? How are WE going to make it through a movie of this nature? With Bullock's brilliant breaking point performance of humanity already broken, directed definitively by German director Nora Fingscheidt of 'System Crasher' 69th Berlin Film Festival and short film fame. Expect more run time for this real and raw director of gritty stories with shades of better and worse in earned, but not fully realised, redemptive arcs. Sandra's character is searching for more than forgiveness, but a connection with her sibling. No matter how severed it is as post traumatic stress on the child now all grown up induces a sort of amnesia that may be the victim of time and pain. Or as a matter of fact may just be the spells of protection we put ourselves under to shield from the hurt. If this is all an act from the sister then it's done with understandable and understated brilliance by 'The Fall's' Aisling Franciosi, who even in this bruised movies ailing moments gives this story its soul. 

Forgiveness is earned though and this movie seeks that with every emotion. Former John-Boy 'Walton' of the old Stephen King 'It' and 'The Americans' Richard Thomas and Tony Award theatrical 'Death Of A Salesman' actress Linda Emond are compelling in their good intentions and protections as new parents just trying to foster a safe and loving home for their new daughter. Not knowing the true story and the whole truth like a Kevin Hart and Wesley Snipes miniseries which is not that, but it's as real as it gets for one of the biggest surprises of the year. This one may be hidden between 'The Power Of The Dog' and all that's 'Passing' as Academy material this fall, but Netflix still bring out the big guns alongside one of the world's most famous, biggest actresses. Just like the 'Mudbound' star of every Netflix street-level Marvel show Rob Morgan who seems to be in everything on the streaming service. And we have absolutely no problem with that for the new Gary Sinise who is perfectly official, but also understanding as Sandra's parole officer. As she gets a punishing job cutting up fishscale like Ghostface Killah she meets another anti-hero in the form of Frank Castle's Jon Bernthal. And here the charismatic when he's not loading them up in the clinical chamber with perfect precision actor who just stole the serve, holding court in Will Smith's 'King Richard', brings some contagious joy to this clinically depressed movie, desperate for some hope. He's touching and real, even in the face of  turning cheeks of battered and burnt hearts. The genuine grit of this man hidden behind a charismatic charm is his ever convincing calling card. You can tell he's a good guy, built for this. Like the kindly Kingpin of Vincent D'Onofrio if that wasn't enough for your Marvel's. I know you're getting excited for a Fiskful of Wilson right now, but this other bearded and friendly side of Vincent is what makes this man bring more meaning to his revered rules too. Sure he and Jon don't meet for a Kingpin and Punisher reunion that last saw them trade hands and metal table slams in prison as orange is their new black, but D'Onofrio's wedded turn with Viola Davis is pure bliss. Until their peaceful home is given a rude awakening and the 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom' star gets to show us why she's the greatest actress of our generation, not letting Sandra Bullock's 'Unforgivable' get away with murder. Bringing that 'Fences' emotion to some Eastwood like get off my lawn ace acting she goes at it with Bullock, serving a duel that is better than most mainstream movies final fight. Who needs Fisk and Castle outside the four walls? This is hers and she won't let Sandra storm the walls without a damn good explanation. 'The Unforgivable' works hard for your forgiveness and at the end of the day and by the time this comes to a close that's something we can all accept. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Bird Box', 'Bruised', 'The Mustang'. 

REVIEW: LAST NIGHT IN SOHO

4/5

Big Smoke and Mirrors. 

116 Mins. Starring: Thomasin McKenzie, Anya Taylor-Joy, Matt Smith, Michael Ajao, Terence Stamp & Diana Rigg. Director: Edgar Wright. 

'Thunderball' , 1965 in tribute to the late, great Sean Connery in this 'No Time To Die' swan song year for Daniel Craig's 007. The billboard adorns this swingin' sixties 'Last Night In Soho' bonded with brilliant lightbulbs, shining like neon. As classic as this movies promotional poster that like an Alana Haim 'Liquorice Pizza' is giving us a slice in the faith of fan art service. "Just one more Cornetto", fans were left screaming after Edgar Wright dropped his trilogy ('Shaun Of The Dead', 'Hot Fuzz', 'The World's End') like kids ice creams on the sidewalk of a Summers day. Or he did out of the Marvel 'Ant-Man' movie we'd love to still see with all these cuts out there these days. Steven Spielberg's 'West Side Story' may be taking the stage and changing the game, but we all know the original Ansel Elgort musical was 'Baby Driver', clutching and swerving to the sound of music. The energy that pulses through Edgar's projects is epic. And this is hallucinogenic in a fever dream that catches the last train home like Mayer to the Big Smoke of foggy London town's Soho, as famous as New York, New York’s. All the way to the panorama of photographs captured in the credits. So lasting of the memories of Soho, you'll stick around like he really did direct a Marvel movie. The late night to early morning straggler starved streets as empty as quarantine at home. And this writer in the land of the rising sun being reminded of the times he used to take a Virgin train or Megabus down to the Smoke for many a memory back home in the U.K. of my 20's. The classic Carnaby Street arched sign blindsiding me in how could it possibly be a decade since I told the love of my life from South Korea that I'd always have her in heart. Although she just wanted to be friends. It's all good. I was just too late. Now she's found her family and fond fate. And I couldn't be happier. But looking at these familiar, nostalgic black, spiked railing streets, a million miles away, even though Seoul is now a closer neighbour, I wonder if that world still somehow spiritually exists in this multi-verse (no spoilers please). Upstairs in the aesthetic of these apartments that through boundless bedsheets unfold a whole new world like a magic carpet that seems like a dream. 

Or is it a nightmare? Red, white and blue neon from a French restaurant downstairs invades the room like garlic. Ooh, la, la. It feels like something out of Fitzgerald's Gatsby down here in this new 20's that's yet to roar the way we like. A black cab takes you back like a Yellow Submarine. Or like 'Lord Of The Rings' director Peter Jackson getting back with The Beatles in living color for Disney +. All the way back to the sixties that swung like those dances, diving straight into the depths of Quentin Tarantino's 'Pulp Fiction' (he gets a thank you in the credits too). Dusting off the records and blonde bombshells like Springfield for anyone who had a heart for this time like Cilla or Warwick, Twitter's favourite aunt. All for something that as authentic as the scratches is as vivid as vinyl. And our throwback muse here-who dreams of those days like 'WandaVision' does Jeanie-fashions her vision of these times in the seams of her grand design that laces the perfect pink dress. On reflection of living through someone from that bygone era who is more than a mere avatar, or lucid fantasy. Realism for today's world of online escapism were we can filter our lives and looks to look any way we want others to perceive us or our world as. And Wright's film looks to cautionary tale this modern day wrong, for what it does to our sense of self. Amongst other things he calls to task in this movie as muddled as our mainstream minds are in kind. Because this yearning for the past as times go by conceals much more behind this made-up life that looks different in the shimmer of all its smoke and mirrors. The skinny suit and cigarette time of the sixties isn't so slight when you get into the thick of it and the dark corners of this story that are illuminated in sleazy neon. All hiding under the bed for a truly harrowing horror that makes that left turn in 'The Worlds End' look like just another pub crawl hangover. Coming through the wallpaper, pasting his new signature style all over us, Edgar has epically redefined both his own and the scary stories of movies. Do you like it? Slashing away like a 'Scream' this Halloween, in this haunted house, burning like the latest Michael Myers 'Kills'. Albeit in a very different way that the Ari Aster's and Jordan Peele's who have made the heart of this horror genre a hallmark one. All whilst speaking to the spirit of the stirred and shaken souls. 

Chin on heel, strike a pose like vogue across this board. Because 'The Queens Gambit' plays for this being Anya Taylor-Joy's time. The 'Split', 'Glass' franchise star and 'Emma' doing the type of wonders with horror all the power of the Marvel 'New Mutants' couldn't. A testament to this time like her 'Gambit' or mob steal in the BBC's 'Peaky Blinders'. A starlet with so much more under that iconic 'do, her character wants to be the next Cilla Black (but all these blind dates is not what she expected). Yet she has the look and the love to make many a sixties star her next muse in 'Queens' biographies by the book. That's just the color of her money and hustle. She's a vision. But for as much as she takes your gaze and then your heart the first time you look in the mirror this is Thomasin McKenzie's moment and movie. The board is hers. It's her game. The Kiwi actress of 'Jojo Rabbit', 'Leave No Trace', 'Old', 'The King' and 'The Hobbit' fame has found her film in the same weeks she rounds up with 'The Power Of The Dog', as fellow New Zealander Jane Campion, Benedict Cumberbatch and Netflix go for Oscar's ranch. McKenzie carries every frame of this picture and every nuance of experienced and earned emotion, Hidden behind that sweet sounding, innocent voice that actually catches the timbre of terrible pain. Always punctuated and profound at such a young age, but never perfunctory or perplexing on this big stage, even in all the craziness of this cinematic experience. She makes you believe this story as true as her genuinely ground breaking talent. Thomasin is terrific. Add another breakthrough star in 'Attack The Block's' Michael Ajao, who could be on the rise like his awakening force of a friend and you really have something here too. Like the pairs burgeoning chemistry on-screen like Picard that could translate to more than just starting off as friends, even though this mutal attraction and polite appreciation would just be happy to be here for each other. Such is the sweet selflessness of young love. There's nothing loving about Matt Smith's romancing management of Joy however. Taken back in Tardis time with the good Doctor who really showed us his acting depths as Prince Phillip in all the scuffs of 'The Crown'. He's still a Brylcreemed shining jewel here though. And one moment Springsteen racing in the streets of London with Anya like Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson crossing Tokyo’s Shibuya in 'Lost In Translation' is actual, pure joy. Add a cool cameo and a legend in Terence Stamp, putting a creepy last name on things with that unmistakable voice and this night has more sidewalks than Soho has dark alleys, hiding more. Because 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service' like Lazenby, it's original 'Avenger' (no, not those widow making Marvels. But the kind Roger Moore was familiar with) and 'Game Of Thrones' star Diana Rigg whose kindly homeowner leaves the most lasting impression. Her perfect and powerful performance is inspired as it is incendiary. As without her letting the room, this night in Soho that you'll never forget wouldn't have played out. And we couldn't let that happen. Rigg one again shows us you can't mess with the good ole days, and bringing it all back like a throwback track, Edgar spins a soundtrack like a car on the grooves that once again works just right. By the end of this Saturday night at the movies, this is the picture you will care to see as it fixes its lipstick and touches the mirror one last time in reflection. It's so much brighter here in this reel of film. So forgot all your troubles, forget all your cares. Just make sure in nostalgia you linger on the sidewalks of pretty neon a little longer amongst the music of the traffic of the city. Because with Joy singing in your ear like Petula, you can still always go downtown with this love song to the way we were. No finer place for sure. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Baby Driver', 'Black Swan', 'The World's End'. 

TV REVIEW: TRUE STORY - Season 1

4/5

I Can't Make This Up.

7 Episodes. Starring: Kevin Hart, Wesley Snipes, Tawny Newsome, Paul Adelstein, William Catlett, Lauren London, John Ales, Chris Diamantopoulos, Theo Rossi & Billy Zane. Created By: Eric Newman. 

What now? Kevin Hart-the man who has everyone dying laughing-is actually accused of murder?! As he breaks the fourth wall and Tupac's "I ain't a killer, but don't push me" plays. All after his last few years have courted controversy. From resurfaced old tweets to being removed as the host of the Oscar's. And he starts this latest show with an interview on 'Ellen' of all places and platforms like there was no f###s given. Call him 'Irresponsible' like one of his specials, but let me explain like he's just giving it up for someone who had his back. 'True Story' is exactly not that. It's a work of fiction not to be confused with the truth. Or the 2015 prison drama of the same name starring Jonah Hill and James Franco that has done a longer bid on the movie dating app that is Netflix than inmates locked down between four walls like our own personal house arrest. All for a streaming site that has more movies missing than people you unmatched with. Even if he does play a comedian like the way fellow classic comedian Chris Rock said on Ludacris' song 'Everybody Hates Chris' off 'Theatre Of The Mind'; "you ain't no actor. In 'Hustle and Flow' you played yourself!" But the 'Jumanji' and 'Central Intelligence', 'Hobbs and Shaw' (SURPRISE!) franchise friend of The Rock can act like the Bridges of a 'Fast and Furious' one too. 'The Upside' of the 'Ride Along' star is just that good. And you can never fault the epic energy and passion he brings to every one of his projects like that greeter who moonwalked up to him in Walmart. Show us your stuff Kev! Let's ride! Now the controversy spotlight is on another Netflix comedian (Dave *do we even need to cough* Chappelle), Hart is making good on his Netflix deal. Kevin was all his second name on the heartfelt 'Fatherhood' this year that should garner award season buzz and even his special last year in quarantine hit home. Making up like his series 'Guide To Black History' amended for his ill-advised, but real warning 'Don't F### This Up' which didn't read as well as his memoir, 'I Can't Make This Up'. No one but him quite can. 

The truth is, this story has looked intriguing ever since we saw the windows roll down on a promotional picture that saw Kevin Hart behind the blacked out windows of what may as well have been a hearse at night, with Wesley Snipes riding shotgun. About to be in pole position for that Emmy for the best thing he's done since he stole the show making that joke on 'The Expendables 3' after doing a bid and running through his kill list. "What did they get you for?" Sly's crew asked the 'Demolition Man' villain with Rodman hair. "Tax evasioooon" he said with eyes wide. Those who wrote the 'Blade' piercing stare and sharp talents of 'New Jack City's' 'Passenger 57' just don't know a legend when they see one like the kids who scoff "him" when Kevin's Kid challenges some young guns to a game of basketball like Prince did Charlie Murphy, all to court an alibi. Did they not see 'White Men Can't Jump' as Wesley gives them that sniping, knowing look? It's about to be carnage like his co-star Woody Harrelson with 'Venom'. Because in a surprise show that plays like a heart to Hart, but is actually the real deal like Kevin's own acting and with every familiar face bringing it, no one quite does it like Wes who also stole the show in the long awaited Eddie Murphy 'Coming 2 America' referencing the 'Delirious' legend in raw comparison here. Don't write Snipes-who can do more with a look then pages of script by the book-or this stealing show off, because this is the quality Netflix have been throwing money at Hollywood for years in hope that something sticks. It even has an avenging cameo form one of the biggest stars like they're extracting all their called upon favours. The only disappointment here from this show ran by 'Narcos' and 'Mexico' man Eric Newman is we might not get a second series. But only because this singular miniseries season is just so perfect. You don't see it coming like everything that drops like the comedians mic. 

West Philadelphia born like the 'Will' of Smith from the Fresh Prince to the 'King Richard' Academy Award throne, Philly is the perfect backdrop that raises the stakes with more drama in the Sixers Wells Fargo Arena than the Ben Simmons situation. Hoopla hasn't been courted this much since Denzel served a subpoena in front of Dr. J for Tom Hanks bosses in the Spectrum of 'Philadelphia'. But for all the storied life, as real as it gets lessons Hart and Snipes learn each other in the process of this back and forth like big Joel Embiid, the rest of this 'True' cast do their own heavy lifting to turn this lucky number seven into a seal of heaven sent television for the smartphone generation. 'Space Force' and 'Star Trek: Lower Decks' star Tawny Newsome really hits earth and her own stage as a writer who's tired of her jokes being treated as such and passed over from her time behind the mic. Especially with Will Ferrell calling. Whilst Paul Adelstein who killed everything in site on 'Prison Break' is an assistant assassin here. Albeit looking strikingly and distinctively different in barber shy hair and plastic specs. 'Black Lightning' star William Catlett is a thunderbolt of protection too that looks like it could cobra strike and bite in the wrong way at any minute. Whilst Lauren London continues her name fame as Hart's ex who still has his love and soul, not to mention his foundation of family in heart and mind. Word to the wise, you and your ex can coexist. Especially for the kids. Even with all this in the comedian hitting jabs like a boxers corner, he still feels boxed in by some mobsters. John Ales (of 'The Nutty Professor' of all movies) and Chris Diamantopoulos (another Netflix favourite who was ridiculed by Ryan Reynolds in their biggest opening day 'Red Notice' with The Rock and Gal Gadot. Although this "muscular toddler" is so intimidating here) play this to acclaimed affiliation. Whilst an unrecognisable, bald and bearded Billy Zane completely owns the first episode with 'Titanic' strength with the iceberg he sends Kevs way. But for all this it's the Shades of 'Luke Cage' star Theo Rossi (who also dealt with Netflix this year in Zack Snyder's 'Army Of The Dead') who also almost unrecognisable with uncharacteristic shaggy hair and messy, nervous energy plays a superfan who is more sweet than stalkerish (although Snipes has his suspicions. See 'The Fan' Robert De Niro on his classic 90's baseball thriller rounding it all the next time you head home). Rossi's realest performance yet, the theory of a previous too Shades slick Theo will change soon as he brings more depth here like he did uncaging his Ray Ban blacked out character on the power man street-level superhero series. A real marvel here who is the heart of a show were most of the characters don't even have a beating one as they sell their soul for the highest price and biggest trunk space. This is what makes 'True Story' as believable as it gets. And once the story of this Cain and Abel brotherhood ends for the king of comedy. You're going to want to tell everybody the truth. The whole truth...and nothing but. I swear, so help us God. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Fatherhood', 'Narcos: Mexico', 'True Story (2015)'.

REVIEW: VENOM-LET THERE BE CARNAGE

3.5/5

Crimson Peak.

97 Mins. Starring: Tom Hardy, Michelle Williams, Naomie Harris, Reid Scott, Peggy Lu, Stephen Graham & Woody Harrelson. Director: Andy Serkis. 

Let the games begin, like the Bane of Hardy's 'Dark Knight Rises' once said. Critics tried to come with the anti-Venom like the character we hope to one day symbiotically see in this shared universe for the 2018 origin story that delighted fans in B-movie brilliance. Especially those who wished the former DC villain, Tom Hardy would take the claws of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine for Logan's next run. But Tom and all then sucked their teeth at all that toxicity and spat out the poison. All to the tune of superior box offices with no need to call the whole thing off. Catsup? Now the oily anti-hero is back in black, but he has a Red Goblin problem in the form of the Crimson Leviathan for the sequel, 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage' this Autumn. Which is shrieking at the post pandemic big-screen openings with a wave of rave reviews from fans. And it's all about to change its own world building stakes. All for a Spider-Man villain we'd love to see crossover to Sony's other big-screen speaker breaking spider bite. If only. There's more chance of Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield being in 'Now Way Home' like an animated Spider-Verse (the only time we've wanted multiple arachnids in the room at the same time). Or this writer in the Far East coming home for the holidays in this second calendar corona crippled Christmas. Speaking of such, this movie has only just come out here in Japan, months later. And the new Spider-Man 3 arrives in the land of the rising sun in the new year. So a word to the wise and warned. A writer for multiple outlets can't maintain radio silence on social media for three-weeks. So no spoilers, or veiled ones here please. We've already had the game changing post-credits scene that you should still stick around for ruined by the headline of a "reptuable" movie site. Just saying, don't be an incy wincy. Turn the tap tight on that water spout. 

Red notice like a Netflix film starring Deadpool, Black Adam and Wonder Woman is being put on as Woody Harrelson has promised us, "there's going to be Carnage", ever since teasing us with the last movies post-credits sting, practically telling us the title of this one. Now thankfully shearing the Ed, Sideshow Bob carrot top, the red head, dead for revenge, not redemption is looking to enter the saloon as he breaks from San Quentin prison like Clint Eastwood's 'Escape From Alcatraz'. Humming his own version of the Johnny Cash song. The man in prison orange becomes Woody, the Red Slayer like crimson was the new black. And it's a coat that suits this man with one hell of a jacket. An arrow arm, sword slicing, cut above the rest. The part feels like home to the 'True Detective'. The 'Natural Born Killers' star who had 'Cheers' to him as a 'Hunger Games', 'Zombieland' and 'Now You See Me' franchise favourite, like when he was the gay best friend with the wisest words in 'Friends With Benefits' (the crazy thing about that movie is that star Mila Kunis ended up married to same year, 'No Strings Attached' star Ashton Kutcher. Bathe in THAT!) becoming the perfect villain here like when he spent the entirety of the 'War For The Planet Of The Apes' straight razor shaving his already bald caesar. Head-to-head with Andy Serkis' motion captured, genius-level primate. And now he is directed here by Gollum himself, as this Serkis act sees one of our generation and the most advanced way to make movies best actors swapping capes and his Alfred tux from the forthcoming new 'Batman' movie (also by 'Apes' director Matt Reeves) for a directors chair in roughly the same universe that gave us his Klaw. The master of the alien side of cinema, throwing everything at the Brock San Francisco apartment (bacon, eggs, even the damn kitchen sink) and seeing what symbiote sticks. And it's a riot, like Riz Ahmed in the last movie for this sound of metal. 

Woody's looking for his Bo Peep like most ex-cons going home, now that he's out and Marvel have all the toys in the sandbox for their story. And 'Moonlight' and 'Black and Blue' star Naomie Harris is truly a scream as Shriek...another classic Marvel character that has the fans shouting from the same rooftops Spidey swings from. A sonic boom from the Ravencroft Institute that could even show Arkham Asylum real anarchy, cackling at their Goldblum like chaos theory. Louder than a bomb, or a 'First Class' X-Men Banshee, Moneypenny of Bond is right on the dollar here, bringing that wonderful 'Pirates Of The Caribbean' weirdness back. The same that made her an MI:6 household name. Savvy? Even if she's having trouble being heard by her not so soundproof or symbiotic boyfriend. Hey, what couples don't have their communication problems? Hardy's Eddie has his own with the Academy Award favourite Michelle Williams elevating everything here. Even her new fiancé Reid Scott has the best lines from Brock, almost all sound and noise. The 'Veep' and also 'Black and Blue' star like Harris or the forthcoming 'Morbius'' (s###s about to get real in the universe with this Joker. Ain't that right Batman?) Tyrese Gibson getting more to do here like convenience store owner Peggy Lu on the corner of 5th and funny. But for all the black and blue reunions, or those monkeying around, it's Hardy's one with 'Taboo' star and forthcoming 'Peaky Blinders' one Stephen Graham that is a master one like that BBC deal. The scouse chameleon copping a great role as an officer on the case who won't be beat. Even if he is keeping his ear to the street like Hawkeye on Disney + right now this Christmas. Because for all the absolute carnage, it's still the 'Mad Max' of Tom Hardy that shoots straight down this fury, hilly, 'Bullitt' road of the streets of San Francisco like a Pym particle. His Jekyll and Hyde act with both Eddie and the bass in his voice as Venom above his head like a speech bubble is a thing of Kemp beating, Kray brother 'Legend'. Surviving the maximum CGI carnage and letting this movie be more than all those who love to hate the turning comics of Marvel's enterprise. It may not be the Bane of his superhero starring life, but it's definitely got enough Venom to kick. Just when everyone thought it was going to bite, this thing takes your head off. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Venom', 'Morbius', 'Spider-Man: No Way Home'. 

REVIEW: THE POWER OF THE DOG

4/5

Dog Day Afternoon.

126 Mins. Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Thomasin McKenzie, Genevieve Lemon, Keith Carradine & Frances Conroy. Director: Jane Campion. 

A bare-arsed Doctor Strange chasing after X-Men's Nightcrawler, who is actually the son of Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man's MJ is not the multi-verse you hoped for...even if it is utter madness. The cheek! But you won't want to Scooby Doo this crap. That's just 'The Power Of The Dog'. And it's no s###, as 'Sherlock' star Benedict Cumberbatch is so cumbersome and different under the usual elementary magnify glass. No, not hench and bench pressed up when he went 'Into Darkness' with the 'Star Trek' sequel as John Hari...it's been long enough, his name was KHAN! He's even more sinewy (I can break the big words out too like Vince Vaughn in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' when I need them). But yet 'The Imitation Game' chameleonic actor here has a whole new wrath like the titan performer he is. All for the electric 'The Current War' spark-plugs best acting since he breathed fire into the legendary Smaug, stepping into the light for 'The Hobbit', or when he was 'Patrick Melrose' mad man with a cigarette in a bathtub. Three times Benedict was subject to nicotine poisoning during the filming of this film to the cinematography's aesthetics benefit under the yellow stained fingernails. Rolling more rizzlers than there will be red carpets for him soon for his Kodak moment at the theatre of Oscar's Academy Awards. Not completely award season gold filthy rich, but Cumberbatch could sure use a bath here. The thick of his muddied and maddening performance as a raw ranch hand will garner a round of applause from everyone. From Sundance to the statue. I see it like a dog in the power of this mountainous terrain. Now there's a good actor, boy. The lord of the plains.

Championing Jane Campion's new classic 'The Power Of The Dog' already with a Silver Lion award for her pup, Benedict is brilliant. Whilst the New Zealand screenwriter, producer and director of the big-three 'An Angel At My Table', 'Bright Star' and 'Holy Smoke!' brings a new take to even the neo western genre for this drama with a desperate difference in this great depression. Based on novelist Thomas Savage's story of the great American West. Dog-eared, but no longer yellowing as its brought to the streaming screens of goliath giant Netflix, all whilst the likes of Amazon Prime and Disney + are sharpening their swords for the biggest battle of the fall...for everyone's subscriptions this Christmas. Amongst the Montana mountains, slow burning like a candle's wick with wax dripping fear of the black dog subtle tension, this film hides a lot in plain sight. A Heath and Jake 'Brokeback' burgeoning romance for your ledgers. A generational gap friendship forged in alliance to read all about like Tom Hanks' 'News Of The World' (now also Netflix) for a Greengrass 'Captain Phillips' reunion. And even another neo sleeper like the 'Slow West' a certain young stud earned his spurs in alongside fellow X-Men, Michael Fassbender. Raw like hide, there are many neo westerns these days that have changed this genres matrix like the resurrections of Reeves. From modern day bandits like Chris Pine and Ben Foster going 'Hell Or High Water' against the banks and from Jeff Bridges lawman to Natalie Portman's 'Jane Got A Gun'. But Campion has the champion with this bronco. 

Benedict could be the beneficiary of a batch of awards for this one, but all the all-star cast show up here too like Netflix's own star-studded 'Godless' six-shooter mini-series. After starting down 'The Road' of a Cormac McCarthy amazing adaptation with Viggo Mortensen, a young Kodi Smit-McPhee has been a rising 'Alpha'. From Marvel's to the 'Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes', but now with a New York Film Critics Circle award for Best Supporting actor here, the kid Kodi is all grown up. Here he weathers any storm on the horizon of his young life. Whether they be lisping taunts from Cumberbatch's character, or emasculating gestures from others for his effeminate ways. But bravery and heart, like love, knows no gender. Despite what those challenging his manhood think or tell him to believe. McPhee stands on his own two spurs, spurred on by a desire that's more than just trying to make it in this world that back then, trying to put him in one wouldn't give him his place. It's a repressed aggravated performance of nervous passion that deserves everybody's confidence. But for everything Cumberbatch and Kodi are getting for this heralded picture from Hollywood, it's former(?) 'Spider-Man' star Kristen Dunst who really brings it. The moving mothering of a wonderful wife driven to drink and force away from the piano by Cumberbatch's cruel chides. The 'Interview With A Vampire' and 'Little Women' child star is now a legend like 'Elizabethtown' thanks to Murray like Coppola collaborations including, 'The Virgin Suicides', 'Mary Antoinette' and most recently a truly beguiling remake of a Clint Eastwood classic. But this perfect performance from the dark depths, shrouded in sadness that feels infinite takes her even higher like 'Melancholia'. All before she may even have 'No Way Home' for a career year that's anything but low hanging fruit or spider's dangling upside down like it was mistletoe. Because 'tis the season. But that's not it for former child actors who have made it big in this town for this class cast. Jesse Plemons of nearly every other film you see these days is the essence of character and kindness for this former character actor. Let's not think anymore about the 'Judas and the Black Messiah' stars last Netflix movie 'I'm Thinking Of Ending Things'. The mindf### had us thinking the same, although his turn in it was terrific. We're sure we will piece more of this layered film together the more we take it apart with every watch, instead of doing that critically. Dancing in a field with Dunst here however at the beginning of things, one moment were a tear from his eye falls down his cheek because of how good it is to no longer be alone has us in our emotions. Even with the view behind them you can't take your eyes of this gentle couples grace. Add another rising star in 'The Hobbit' ('Five Armies'), 'The King' and 'Jojo Rabbit' star who has now had her spotlight in Edgar Wright's 'Last Night In Soho' Thomas McKenzie, Aussie singer and soap star Genevieve Lemon, Carradine family member Keith from 'Nashville' and 'The Angel Of Death' of 'American Horror Story' legend Frances Conroy and this really is a best picture. Psalm 20:20 reads in this 2021 movie, "deliver my soul from the sword; my darling from the power of the dog." Once a blade opens an envelope marked best in 2022, this dog will have its day. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'News Of The World', 'Slow West', 'Brokeback Mountain'. 

REVIEW: BRUISED

 

3.5/5

Million Dollar Berry. 

138 Mins. Starring: Halle Berry, Danny Boyd Jr, Shamier Anderson, Adan Canto, Sheila Atim, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Adriane Lenox & Valentina Shevchenko. Director: Halle Berry. 

Scars and scabs. Black and blue. Bloodied and 'Bruised' like a raspberry, or a dent in the soup can life her ex-champ turned tune-up fighter has become a part of in this world of damaged goods. Halle Berry clambers INTO a UFC cage and into the directors chair for her behind the camera debut as the star of her own show. And it's as real and raw as it gets as the 'X-Men' legend and 'Monster's Ball' Academy Award winner gives us a storm of a brawl. Pulling no punches and looking like she's going for the belt of another Oscar. It was almost 20 years ago Berry had a 'Ball' and the gold. Now the 'John Wick: Chapter 3-Parabellum' sequel star shows she can kick ass again like Keanu, and defy age at 55 too, just like that vampire. So spry as she slides into the ring to box clever with actual Ultimate Fighting Champions. Like when Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton went bare toe-to-toe in 2011's best film 'Warrior', as this one tries to go seconds out with the greatest of the calendar schedule too. Halle has been Hollywood since those Eddie Murphy 'Boomerang' days came around. She's been a Bond girl ('Die Another Day') and been a part of the 'Kingsmen' (or should we say The Statesmen of 'The Golden Circle'...we still waiting on that spin-off). But lately (if you can call 2013 lately. It's really been that long) you need to pick up 'The Call' that changed Halle Betty's destiny. Think of that one as similar to the recent Jake Gyllenhaal Netflix 911 thriller and Danish remake 'The Guilty'. Just like this movie boxes in the same circles as Gyllenhaal's 'Southpaw'. Winners circle complete with its own hip H.E.R. and Cardi B. soundtrack. Berry is a legend like the one she's playing, but far from washed. An icon and Strong Black Lead that paved the way for so many. Seeing themselves as superheroes way before her comic-book love of the 'Black Panther', or Zoe Kravitz as Catwoman. No matter what you think of Halle's origin movie. Even rapper Saweetie had to bring the costume back for the coins. Never mind your intense stare down in cameo. IKDR. But what is going on here? It's been said that Berry wants to direct again and give justice for 'Catwoman' with one more reboot. I'd like to get my claws into that. Just like holding up the umbrellas for some more 'Days Of Future Past' once Doctor Strange opens up this 'Multiverse Of Madness' before Spider-Man "Scooby Doos this crap!" 

Blood, sweat and years of pain and tears. Capoeira skills honed from 'Catwoman'. Everything has its reason, no matter who hisses at it. Berry is going all out and in in the octagon as Jackie Justice (what a name). All for the most inspirational fictional sports story up the champion jumping steps since a certain Stallion told his Adrian he got one. Steeling herself for the prison of a combatants life inside the MMA ring. Wrestling with Springsteen Newark, New Jersey notions like Mickey Rourke. Far from the 'Warrior' dimming lights of Atlantic City acting like a lower rolling Vegas. Boxing. Wrestling. Kick-boxing. Jujitsu. Juggling family drama and a son left on her porch. Childhood trauma, adversity and being wrote off more times than King James, this Queen in Brady territory is looking for her title shot at her sports Superbowl. With more than one Lady Killer looking to take her down. It's all here for Jackie searching for justice on the ropes, with her back against the cage. This blood sport like Idris Elba looks like suicide, until you see Halle throw her first cross. The harder THEY fall! Spraying blood across the floor and alcohol into her mouth from a kitchen cleaner acting as a concealer. Berry can do the professional dramatics, nuanced acting, heavy lifting in her sleep. But pound for pugilist pound, it's the punishing reps she brings to her sporting stance and her actual real fighting that is the biggest dedication to a role, body and soul since Leonardo DiCaprio's vegetarian 'Revenant' ate raw bison. Put her next to 'Ali' GOAT Will Smith's 'King Richard' Williams tennis serve for the crowing trophy. Berry is at her very best. 

Hollywood heavyweights need plenty in their corner though and Halle has that. Forthcoming 'The Marvels' star and 'John Wick: Chapter 4' 'Tracker' who might be seeing Halle again soon, Shamier Anderson is as Immaculate as the name of the character he plays, even if the game of this MMA owner is far from. Whilst in another reunion the Sunspot of 'X-Men: Days Of Future Past' star Adan Canto is so burning and convincing in his cruel intentions you'll hate him for it in all his aggression and passive playing of it like it's all passion...it's not. It's toxic. Like the "look what you made me do" words of an abuser. Berry and Canto help bring these dark corners of domestic hell to the light of hopefully some heaven sent help in the real world. Still it's the classically trained Shakespeare Globe Theatre, 'The Lightning Child' and 'Ghost Town' actress Sheila Atim that really steals the stage in this big screen theatre. Making you wish they never cancelled the 'Game Of Thrones' spin-off series 'Bloodmoon' that she was cast in. Although she will soon ride in on the BBC's 'Pale Horse'. Elevating this in its weight catergory, Atim is the bruised soul of 'Bruised'. Add character actor veteran Stephen McKinley Henderson (you want him in your corner) finally getting his due after even eclipsing some of the sands of stars in this years smartest blockbuster 'Dune' and Tony award winner Adriane Lenox washing up as Justice's drug addicted and addled mother, still with a sober heart, and you really have something.  Even real MMA UFC fighter Valentina Shevchenko gets her acting licks in. But it's the kid Danny Boyd Jr, the essence of this battle that will move you without nary a word or smile. Fight night movies in the same club may be a sponge to a bucketful of clichés, but the 'Creed' of this one still wins the bout like Jordan in this last dance. Because Berry doesn't just have a team of trainers and fighting actors behind her, she also has herself with definitive deliverance in her direction like a lucky left. And this is more than beginners fortune, like her time on the canvas aswell as the cinematic one. This is hard-worked and honed to a punching perfection. She can direct. She can fight. Far from another act. 'Bruised' may not break the skin, but it still hits you hard enough to show up the next morning in reflection. Like spitting blood in the sink under the bathroom mirror. Now ain't that a kick in the head!? TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Million Dollar Baby', 'Warrior', 'Monster's Ball'. 

REVIEW: RESPECT

4/5

A.R.E.T.H.A.

145 Mins. Starring: Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans, Audra McDonald, Marc Maron, Tituss Burgess & Mary J. Blige. Director: Liesl Tommy. 

To be Franklin, check the credits in closing over a picture of Jesus behind this Queen. All as she sings 'Amazing Grace' from the church to save wretches like me in the pulpits. Everybody of the congregation in concert and the 1972 live album of the same name that became Ms. Franklin's bestselling. A "cherished entertainer" that sold out concerts well into her 70's and had Barack and Michelle Obama feeling the Holy Ghost and giving her standing ovations at the 'Tapestry' of a Carol King tribute, as the '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman' legend gave it up for another who was paying tribute to her on stage. Dropping her fur coat to the floor as the Queen of soul belted out all her natural power for King. An 18 time Grammy winner who became the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her story becoming HERstory. The youngest person to ever be chosen for the Kennedy Center Honors at 52. And of course in 2005 a recipient of America's highest civil award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Singing 'My Country, 'Tis Of Thee' at the 2008 inauguration of President Barack Obama. Calling it, "the promise of tomorrow now coming to pass". After her death she was posthumously honoured with a Pulitzer. The charitable activist and champion of social justice's lifetime achievements are so honor roll long they could have gone in a separate movie like the live version documentary of 'Amazing Grace' that was recently released as if from the heavens. In loving memory of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Louise Franklin. March 25, 1992-August 16, 2018.

IMAX eyes. The biggest voice deserves the biggest screen like a blockbuster. But this isn't a Marvel movie. It's a movie about a marvel. In all her majesty and magic. And this tick, tick...BOOM dynamite directorial debut from Broadway's Liesl Tommy with an eye for the biopic deserves the biggest cinematic presence. The 'Homecoming' of Beyoncé? Close, but how about instead the 'Dreamgirl' that stole the show and beat Bey to the Oscar? Miss Jennifer Hudson. 'The Color Purple' theatrical actress, moviestar and singer can expect another Academy Award to go next to her Grammy's and Golden Globe's. The power of her performance is phenomenal. She's not just playing Aretha, she is the Queen, no daydream. Thinking about her there 'Ain't No Way' like the way they use this song in Will Smith's 'Ali' anybody else could have played Miss Franklin. Give her the Best award like 'King Richard' for service. Hudson doesn't just do the numbers, powerful voice, for powerful voice. She also catches her tone and the timbre of her life and love. The high notes and the low points. The rich success after covering others for years. The iconic stance under the spotlight, her microphone a torch that led the way in the civil rights era like her good friend Martin. And the heartbreaking tribute, punctuated by pain she gave him in vocal eulogy after the King was taken from us in Memphis. The divorce, desperation and drink. Those three demon D's that Adele sang about last week when she turned '30' in. The only voice apart from Jennifer's these days that even comes close to Franklin. And we're talking about the kind of ballpark that needs a homer to even round it. Jennifer steps up to the plate and hits it all forever in the best biopic since Jamie in 'Ray' or everything and everyone the late, great '42' of 'Marshall' Chadwick Boseman played, getting up on some James Brown soul. Put this next to Renée Zellwegger's 'Judy' as worthy of the award and so much more in legacy honoring a legend. One moment in this film this burgeoning star is compared to Garland. Now everybody is giving her, her flowers. So it's high time to throw them towards Hudson's stage too as she opens another envelope like us this Christmas. 

With respect to the rest of this movies cast, they are more than just backing singers. Just like the title track of this movie is more than just an Otis Redding cover sitting on the dock of the bay as Aretha remade it as her own. What you want, baby she had it. More than just a little bit. And how about seeing how that cover was created? Re, re, re. And now in this 'Black Nativity' reunion with Forest Whitaker coming to the Far East of Japan this Christmas after its August United States rush, we can see just how much Forest has in his acting woods. One of the greatest black actors of not just his generation, but all time. More than his famous 'Empire' like J-Hud is too. This is the 'Ghost Dog' that showed us his way of the Samurai. The man that has played both 'Bird' and 'The Last King Of Scotland'. 'The Butler' who went all the way to Wakanda in 'Black Panther'. One of the most underrated legends of our time. But here he is undeniable. As Forest's father, a preacher with a daughter is all love, rough around the edges as he disciplines and controls with an iron fist, but is coming from a place of love. He just needs to really see his place and the own one his own can take by her self. On her perfected path. No matter how tough the street. Whitaker captures these character conflictions with conviction. All whilst trying to keep at bay the interests of the charming, but shady Marlon Wayans suitor. The comedy actor turning in the dramatic stakes like he did so well last year for Sofia Coppola's third times the charm Bill Murray reunion after (the reason I'm in Japan) 'Lost In Translation' and 'A Very Murray Christmas' (If say is it too early to watch this again, but August quickly became late November), 'On The Rocks'. One of last years hidden gems, going down smoothly in an all too rough year, we know about all too well. It's the 'Master Class' of 'Porgy and Bess' actress Audra McDonald that really has a presence throughout however, for some moving mothering with shades of 'Ray'. Whilst Marc Maron of the 'Joker' gets a few laughs in amongst the serious negotiations as the stand-up talent who makes music and podcasts increases his range, delivering these vocals to that studio sound. Even the star of 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt', the most hilarious detergent commercials and every other meme Tituss Burgess shows there is so much more to his soul than people using his reactions as their Internet one. Add the Queen of modern R&B and Netflix's 'Mudbound' and 'The Umbrella Academy' Mary J. Blige adding underused, but more unmistakable drama, flipping tables as the Queen Dinah Washington and 'This Bitter Earth' like haunting scores with Max Richter for the scales of Scorsese's 'Shutter Island' with DiCaprio will have some wise words. But it's time we all have 'Respect' and find out what this movie and its muse means to me. To every boy and girl around the world. Sock it to me. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Judy', 'Ray', 'Dreamgirls'.