REVIEW: BOSTON STRANGLER

3.5/5

Boston Illegal. 

112 Mins. Starring: Keira Knightley, Carrie Coon, Alessandro Nivola, David Dastmalchian, Morgan Spector, Rory Cochrane, Bill Camp & Chris Cooper. Director Matt Ruskin. 

The hallowed, cobbled streets of Boston, New England pave their way to many a legend. A bar where everyone knows your name. A man, seven-feet high and rising with more rings than he had fingers, leading the pride of a Celtic like a Bird to the promised land and the hope and dreams of Civil Rights. There's the Red Sox and the beautiful park they walked in, base-to-base. But then there's the Curse of the Bambino. Magic in Game 7 with a hook. And much darker and more nefarious times in this great city of Massachusetts' long and winding history. Like a Jack Ripper in London. Or the 'Boston Strangler'. A truly evil man (or group of cruel and callous, conspiring men) who killed 13 women in the 1920s. There's been many movies and series that have documented this dark time in American history, most notably Richard Fleischer's 1968 'The Boston Strangler' movie starring Tony Curtis and Albert DeSalvo. But nothing cuts to the core more than this new one now streaming on Hulu and therefore Disney +. 

Stop press! Like a 'Bombshell' news team assembling against Trump. Put the 'Boston Strangler' of 2023 next to 'The Post' formidable films of inspired, influential, investigatory journalism like 'All The President's Men'. Akin to last year's 'She Said' which was criminally written off at this year's Oscars (doesn't mean it wasn't a great movie of even greater importance, all at once). 'Crown Heights' producer Matt Ruskin's film (produced by Ridley Scott and Scott Free company) shines a 'Spotlight' on the brutality that happened in Boston like the abuse and sex-scandal of the Catholic Church. All whilst the pounding plot puts a drawn-out stranglehold on you with signs like the 'Zodiac' that this case was never completely and satisfactorily solved. That doesn't stop our Hoffman and Redford or Mulligan and Kazan like journalists pursuing even more than the police with Suffragette spirit for their rights as journalists and the rights of women everywhere. To merely live on the face of this earth that should have never just been dubbed a "man's world."

'Pirates Of The Caribbean' and 'Pride and Prejudice' star Keira Knightley gives the performance of her career next to 'Atonement' and 'The Imitation Game' as the legendary Loretta McLaughlin who refused to sit and wait on stories about reviewing toasters to pop up on her desk. Accented as the American, Knightley walks these dark nights in a breakthrough role as the journalist who broke the story of the Boston Strangler that gripped headlines and fears nationwide in a vice grip. By her side, desk-to-desk is more seasoned reporter Jean Cole. The perfect partner and mentor played with punch by Carrie Coon (also of 'The Post' along with 'Widows' and the finest TV work in 'The Leftovers' and 'Fargo') who stole the show in David Fincher's awesome adaptation of Gillian Flynn's shelve changing 'Gone Girl'. 

How many more women have to be portrayed in a crime scene photo before the police wake up from their coffee? At least character Academy actor Alessandro Nivola copping one of the roles of his career is on the case with restrained reluctance like Mark Ruffalo in the 'Zodiac' picture. 'Argo's' Rory Cochrane refuses to say "ahhh go f### yourself" to this investigation too as he wants to nail this S.O.B. But who is he? Before David Dastmalchian became a fanboy and girl favourite in DC and Marvel movies, this superhero was the expert at playing creeps or stranger characters like in Denis Villeneuve's 'Prisoners'. And here that's no exception as he confesses to the crimes for chapters in a book and change in his bank account. It seems more the meddling of men than the misogyny of those times claiming they were the only ones that could take care of women (and not themselves) is what is holding this case up. Cue the great Bill Camp's underused police commissioner making a point. 'Allegiance' and 'Homeland' actor Morgan Spector's husband is supportive, until he isn't (but we don't really know the strain on the family). About the same time veteran Chris Cooper's editor comes around, without a touch of condescension when he affectionately calls Loretta "kid." 

In this world where we see and reveal far too much, credit Ruskin for not revealing what happens behind closed doors in gross gratuitous scenes of abuse. The terrifying, blood-curdling screams are more than enough to haunt us with just how bad this stranger that came knocking with the cruellest of intentions was. Besides, I much prefer factual films championing the heroes fighting the good fight, than the trend of binging true crime docs on Netflix like it was reality TV drama and not actual people's lost lives. It's all there to read about and this movie serves as a documentary like history lesson to not only show some of the worst crimes on women that still happen to this day, but a trailblazer and iconic figure in history who helped those who felt hidden between the classifieds and the sports pages. Not to mention those women who lived in fear of not just sexism, but their lives with the many men that preyed on them with what almost ignorantly seemed like impunity. Catching the infamous 'Boston Strangler' rights an injustice. One where the brutal bastard of a killer and his moniker is known more than the women who were able to shine a light on him so he and his crimes could no longer hide in plain sight. It's time for us to look further into this case. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'She Said', 'Spotlight', 'Zodiac'. 

REVIEW: THE SON

3/5

The Falling Son. 

123 Mins. Starring: Hugh Jackman, Laura Dern, Vanessa Kirby, Zen McGrath, Hugh Quarshie & Anthony Hopkins. Director: Florian Zeller. 

They say the sins of the father will be visited upon the son. But none of The Academy success of 'The Father' have been inherited by 'The Son'. Florian Zeller's staged masterpiece saw 'The Two Popes' and 'The Remains Of The Day' legend Anthony Hopkins pip the late, great Chadwick Boseman ('Ma Rainey's Black Bottom') to the post for the Best Actor Oscar. One that brought Jamie Lee Curtis (deservedly playing everybody in this year's Academy darling 'Everything Everywhere All At Once') over 'Black Panther-Wakanda Forever' Queen Angela Bassett like disappointment for some (Auntie should have definitely won it for her role as Tina Turner back in the day, but 'What's Love Got To Do With It'). But there are no envelopes for this school skipping son like rejected college applications. And that's a shame. Despite critics calling this "aggressive melodrama." 

Based on Zeller's stage-play of the same name ('Le Fils' to be exact) like 'The Crown'. This may not have taken the throne, but it's still regal in its direction and shimmering score setting from the great Hans Zimmer. Just as poetic, if not as profound, Hopkins reprises his role as the father with this serving as a prequel. Showing it might not have been all the illness that made this man too much to bear for 'The Lost Daughter' of Olivia Coleman. Sure, it's aggressive. But often times the angst of teenage life often is. Especially with the aggravated relationship between the son and the father trying to find understanding and a level playing field through all the hurt and heartbreak without making the same generational mistakes again. Ones that could leave you looking bitterly at what could have been. 'Prisoners' perfect Hugh Jackman gives us another arresting performance, barely leaving his suit and tie from the office that is a cubicle confining him from the family he has. Despite the fact that he has the world in view from his window, looking out at the Empire State. And he could even run for office from the concrete jungle to a DC where political dreams are made like 'The Front Runner'. 

Not once does he snikt shrink into the madness of his wonderful Wolverine character, but he carries this picture in those sleeved big and burly arms getting ready for his grand 'Deadpool' return. And once 'The Greatest Showman' of the stage ('Les Misérables', on Broadway in 'The River') unleashes the Dad dancing you'll laugh after you've cried for a brief, beautiful respite in this dull ache of a movie that shows just how numbing depression is...for all family matters. Hugh will break your heart as what lies beneath the dead calm of nuanced newcomer Zen McGrath. Sure, even with those curls he has nothing on Timothée Chalamet's 'Beautiful Boy', but like Lennon, that's a different song. This one shows just how maddening depression is for all parties. Sometimes it's clinical, other times moving. But often like those misunderstanding the minds of the young, what looks melodramatic is disguising, something much more tragic. Something that can't be put into words. 

Kudos to everyone in 'The Son' for trying to express it as well as they can. Just like how those that cut are doing more than hurting themselves. It goes deeper than that. An underused but undeniable Laura Dern and Vanessa Kirby follow their respective 'Marriage Story' and 'Pieces Of A Woman' with even more acclaim, garnering performances as the former and new love in our lead's life. But they're much more than that. Refusing to be reduced to the margins that the screenplay and the Hollywood heartthrob front and centre with his own flesh and blood might leave them in unknowingly. Three's not a crowd when it's your own damn home and son. 'Holby City' Legend Hugh Quarshie is also prescribed as a doctor with more warning than recommendation in a truly tense and terrifying turning point that goes through more second opinions than the confused and conflicted nature of anxiety itself. It all comes to a head in a jarring moment you might have seen coming a mile off, but one that still jolts with a shock to a system. This film doesn't just take a piece out of you. It stays with you, even as you leave what it took at the theatre. 'The Father'. 'The Son'. What will come next like the Holy Spirit? We don't know, but the stage is set for the realest and rawest story of all. The ties of family. The ones that bind and break us. For better or worse. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Father', 'Beautiful Boy', 'Wildlife'. 

REVIEW: SHAZAM! - FURY OF THE GODS

3/5

Gods and Metahumans.

130 Mins. Starring: Zachary Levi, Asher Angel, Jack Dylan Grazer, Rachel Zegler, Adam Brody, Ross Butler, Meagan Good, Grace Caroline Currey, D.J. Cotrona, Jovan Armand, Ian Chen, Faithe Herman, Marta Milans, Cooper Andrews, Rizwan Manji, Diedrich Bader, Lucy Liu, Djimon Hounsou & Helen Mirren. Director: David F. Sandberg. 

Say 'SHAZAM!' whilst you still can. Just in case this DC project gets shot out the cannon by Gunn and the new Detective Comics initiative. Guardian of the post Snyderverse galaxy, James has expressed an interest in retaining the rights to 'Chuck' star Zachary Levi's 'Big' kid Shazam with an exclamation point. And one of two teasing post-credit scenes we won't spoil points to that with sparkle loaded finger guns. But 'Lights Out' and 'Annabelle: Creation' director David F. Sandberg, going from horror to hallmark, says this all depends on how well is force of a 'Fury Of The Gods' sequel is received. We don't want 'Shazam' to be beat like a genius Jamie Foxx game show idea. 

Right now, it sits on the tomato steady throne of mixed reviews and a loss at the box-office. The 2019 origin story was a fresh and fun sleeper hit for the dark DCEU, much like James Gunn's fun-filled 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' was for the M.C.U. Reminding us that superheroes really are for big kids after all. Even if they are no longer pushing 40 (hello), but instead propping it up (see you soon, old friend). It even had a Superman cameo for your lunch box. Albeit from the neckline down (you can trust, you won't have that disappoint this time out. But did Eminem just spoil it for us all?). Still, even when The Rock was cooking for last fall's long-awaited 'Black Adam' (which even featured a real deal Henry Cavill cameo), the franchise starter was canned a week after release. Peep a dust-up Easter Egg tribute here by the bolt. Now, furious fans that are all about family like a fast one, hope the God's don't have the same fate for this one by the time you finish reading this review. 

Ever since Asher Angel's Billy Batson touched 'G.O.T.G' star Djimon Hounsou's (somehow back, but warmly welcome) staff (still) gross and became the man-child of Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles and Mercury by the acronym, we knew we had the makings of a formidable franchise that offset 'Suicide Squad' darkness like the freshwater of 'Aquaman'. Levi was an all-American hero like blue jeans. And his best friend Jack Dylan Grazer, using comedy as a crutch, was his wise-cracking partner in crime like 'The O.C.'s' Adam Brody as the  "Captain Everypower" to the original Captain Marvel. And when the whole foster family laid their hands on Shazam's...OK, I'll stop...you just knew this series was serious. As every emotion of fond feeling poured out unashamedly like the time Arnie revealed to his son that he was a toy and Turboman in the Christmas classic 'Jingle All The Way'.

Child actor to big kid double-duty. Ross Butler and Ian Chen game as Eugene Choi. D.J. Cotrona and Jovan Armand as Pedro Peña, coming out of his closeted shyness. The famous Meagan Good and scene-stealing Faithe Herman telling you to taste the rainbow for all the Skittles. And actress and dancer Grace Caroline Currey replacing Michelle Borth from the first film with grace as both big-sister and big hero Mary Bromfield. All loved unconditionally by the heart-warming couple of Cooper Andrews and Martha Milan, fostering a mystery machine like van. 

There's even a shrugging pen here who's quite the character like Peter Quill...but he looks more like a Steve. Love is on the cards this time out too with 'West Side Story' star Rachel Zegler, continuing her breakout with some more movie magic as she now becomes a familiar face and Hollywood household name. But getting stuffed in lockers and being late for class isn't the only problems our pre-pubescent heroes face in the growing pain of this sequel. How about some formidable foes and some CGI carnage that throws God's, monster and unicorns (oh my!) at you?! All towards a stadium-filling finale in the Phillies' ballpark that really flies like Magneto heading for home in the 'X-Men: Days Of Future Past' super sequel. 

After Mark Strong armed up a formidable foe in 'SHAZAM!', the 'Red' of 'Fast and Furious' star and all those prestige pictures Dame Helen Mirren is more than a Queen, or a living legend...she's a God. Playing this all up perfectly alongside a forever young 'Charlie's Angel' in the form of 'Kill Bill' star Lucy Liu owning everything. It's so good to have her back. If that wasn't enough, we have Ray from 'Schitt's Creek' Rizwan Manji up in this, reprising his DC role after the 'Peacemaker' series with his 'Schitt' shtick. Much like another voice of Batman and Bruce Wayne like the late, great Kevin Conroy with Diedrich Bader's kind-hearted teacher. In the City of Brotherly Love, will there be Justice for 'Shazam'? Only time will tell if the Tree of Life, becomes a rock of DC eternity. One thing's for sure, even if sometimes it feels a little forced, a third time would still be the charm. We'd be there for 'SHAZAM! 3' like a lightning bolt. Just say the word. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'SHAZAM!', 'Black Adam', 'Wonder Woman'. 

REVIEW: A MAN CALLED OTTO

4/5

Forrest Grump. 

126 Mins. Starring: Tom Hanks, Mariana Treviño, Rachel Keller, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Cameron Britton, Mack Bayda, Juanita Jennings, Peter Lawson Jones, Truman Hanks & Mike Birbiglia. Director: Marc Forster. 

Imagine like John Lennon, if working class hero and "America's Dad", Tom Hanks lived next door to you. Won't you be his neighbour? The 'Forrest Gump', 'Saving Private Ryan' and 'Philadelphia' star in the acoustic, indie stages of his all-American, Springsteen like storytelling career. This following the quiet and quaint, legacy making greats for the legend 'Greyhound', 'Finch' and 'News Of The World' across several streamers. Sandwiched between big blockbuster's like narrating 'Elvis' as the evil that men like Colonel Parker do and the Disney version of 'Pinocchio' that came out in the same calendar as Guillermo del Toro's Academy Award-winning Netflix animation, pulling Geppetto's strings. HE IS A TOY! For his legendary shouting sake. Woody to be drawstring exact. But this time, Tom is canHANKSerous. Not bad like 'Road To Perdition' (which he still made nice), but mad like the time fans didn't show respect for his wife Ruth Wilson. The amazing actress who executive produces this picture and provides big scores for the soundtrack like rapping son Chet. This is more Clint Eastwood in 'Gran Torino'. Get the f### back off his lawn! 

'A Beautiful Day In The Neighbourhood' this may not be, but who else really is Mister Rogers? I'm reading a book of his quotes every day, and you have to admire a man who can keep a Bob Ross hope like sunny disposition, lacing that up on the daily. This, based on the 2012 Swedish novel (Fredrick Backman) and 2015 film (Hannes Holm) 'A Man Called Ove' is actually 'A Man Called Otto'. Now don't be disappointed, just because this isn't the biopic of the yellow bus driver from 'The Simpsons' ("my name is Otto. I love to get blotto"). It's actually an engrossing, all-encompassing, sweet suburban story with no drive-thru like Larry David sans car. All from ever versatile 'Monster's Ball', 'Finding Neverland', 'Stranger than Fiction', 'Quantum of Solace', 'World War Z', and 'Christopher Robin' director Marc Forster with feeling. Sure, Otto was out of the Oscars like a slap in the face (last time, we promise), but that doesn't mean this man called isn't worthy of his own award, or academy of nostalgic movies that remind you of why we go on dates with popcorn and condiments and lap it all up 'til the last kernel, Parker. 

A future Sunday afternoon matinée movie to be like 'Larry Crowne'. It's lovely pictures like this that hide more behind the white picket fence lawn curtains. Sure, Tinseltown is guilty of remaking European gems that they have no business or right in doing so, but Otto earns Ove's story and every emotion it displays without any cliché, or a trace of Hollywood schmaltz. It's going to take more than Tupperware meals to get through to this man's heart like Eastwood. One who treats clowns like 'Uncle Buck' and suffers no "idiots." Burnt bridges are going to take time to walk and you better not park on his path. You see, this is a hallmark Hanks with a dark difference in this comedy drama. Suicidal like an aforementioned 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' star in 'Whatever Works', but you won't die laughing. More like cry trying, as a beautiful backstory played perfectly by 'Legion' and 'Tokyo Vice' star Rachel Keller and Hanks own son Truman on this show, is brutal and bracing on a Greyhound. 

'Cast Away' without the new NBA ball, but some. FedEx respect Easter Eggs for your UPS, Hanks must rely on the kindness of strangers we call neighbours to get by. And it turns out they need his help just as much.  Especially with recycling, in moments that will really grab people here in Japan. Even a streetcat, not named Bob, but one that claws itself from looking like an extra in Stephen King's 'Pet Sematary', to being loved like 'Meet The Parents' Dad De Niro loves Mr. Jinks, fockers. 'Mentiras' and 'Narcos Mexico' star Mariana Treviño leads a terrific, neighbouring supporting class with grace. Whilst husband Manuel Garcia-Rulfo ('The Magnificent Seven', 'Murder On The Orient Express', 'Sicario: Day Of The Saldado', 'Widows') continues his top-billing ascent on crutches. A couple of sweet kids and some Polaroid ops, snap Hanks back into cute caricature life before the animated closing credits. Whilst Netflix 'Mindhunter' and Hazel in 'The Umbrella Academy' star Cameron Britton gets his steps in top as a loveable neighbour. But it's Juanita Jennings and Peter Lawson Jones' stroke suffering, wheelchair bound former friend who really strike a chord in this movie that tugs at your strings. Giving hope to the estranged. 

Cynics beware, Hanks may be a crank, but the only bad guy in this is stand-up guy Mike Birbiglia's hip-hop blaring real estate agent who thinks he's found a home digging up grass in his intrusive and obnoxious car. From the beauty that rains from Niagara Falls, to shovelling snow off your drive like it was Canada this film has a huge heart of classic comedy and dark drama. Taking on themes like transgender rights (played powerfully with meaning by Mack Bayda) and suicidal ideation with great responsibility of influence and no box-ticking b.s. wrapped up in a La La Land bow. There's even a moment on smartphone screens that shows how viral the virus of caring more about likes than loving our neighbour has truly become. This Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania story will steal you away. A bittersweet day in the neighbourhood turns out to have nuanced beauty in the darkness, thanks to an outstanding man called Otto. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'A Man Called Ove', 'News Of The World', 'Gran Torino'.

REVIEW: LUTHER - THE FALLEN SUN

4/5

Luther. DCI Luther.

129 Mins. Starring: Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, Dermot Crowley & Andy Serkis. Director: Jamie Payne. 

Who needs Bond? Especially when DCI 'Luther' rejects a Martini at the bar in Netflix's new movie this weekend, as the tweed coat heads from small BBC screen to big, like the order of the 'Peaky Blinders'. Awks! Shaking and stirring things up, Idris Elba is back in his signature role for the streaming service that gave him his most Academy underrated ('Beasts Of No Nation'), just in time for Oscar season. A fortnight after he gave us our and Tilda Swinton's greatest genie wish in George Miller's 'Three Thousand Years Of Longing' here in Japan. Looking over his City of London like Daniel Craig in his penultimate Bond, the epic Elba has played everyone from Nelson Mandela to Stringer Bell in 'The Wire' for HBO. He's been in both Marvel (the 'Thor' series) and DC movies ('The Suicide Squad') and has been rumoured to play everyone from 'Doctor Who' to 007 (if you haven't heard). But no role has held us like his gritty, coffee holding, grinding beat cop, John Luther. 

Who needs Ruth Wilson? Steady on, mate! We miss Wilson's iconic villain Alice and her malice in wonderland as much as we want to see Idris inspire higher as the next man on Her Majesty's (rest peacefully ma'am) Secret Service. And there are hints that after four seasons of 'Luther' and this game-changing movie, she might return in a for sure sequel (but not here). Never fear, even without her 'The Fallen Sun' still rises and brings out the big guns. Especially when it comes to the Gollum gruesome Andy Serkis and the circus of cruel carnage he brings to the bright lights of London's Piccadilly. A neon place as iconic as New York's Times Square or Tokyo's Shibuya Scramble. Now given a blockbuster scene worthy of its stage like Jamie Foxx's Electro turning out the lights of Andrew Garfield's 'Amazing Spider-Man' in NYC too. But streamer beware, this is not for the faint of heart, or easily triggered. This 'Luther' movie is even more deeply disturbing than the watershed, close to the bone series of events we saw on the tube. 

Mind. The. Gap. Chasing criminals through the depths of the London Underground. Heading into the seedy underworld of one of the world's most famous cities that you can't see from The Shard. 'Luther-The Fallen Sun' is all broken glass everywhere, popping the trunk. And one daredevil like prison break could even turn the map of Michael Schofield's back upside down. All as director Jamie Payne brings the pain and also shows a black mirror to those living room evils hiding behind a screen. In an all too complicit world that has torture porn going viral on the dark web and trolls running rampant. There's sickening scenes here amongst the big blockbuster effects that bring home to you just how wrong this world is right now. You'll want to turn away, but we mustn't ignore the fact that the kind of stuff that's punctuated in this movie is being perpetrated in a slimy society that creeps behind the curtain or computer. 

Running blood-red like the DCI's tie, this hard to handle movie is no soft Bond audition. It's its own formidable franchise that's just taken its giant step. The sense of scale of this movie also put in cinemas is worthy of more than your laptop screens. As 'Luther' heads for the multiplex and a frozen tundra of a 'Snowman like (no, not the Raymond Briggs one) formidable, freezing and frightening finale. But it's the influential Idris' grit, gravitas and grace that grounds this breaking picture. Especially his lovely reunion with boss Dermot Crowley (save me a pint). But even with him and Serkis' slick and sick villain, played up as much as that coiffured hair, it's 'Harriet' and 'Widows' star Cynthia Erivo who steals the show. Hot on the tail of not just Andy's megalomaniac villain high on his own supply of dealing 'Se7en' like punishment for the social media revealed sins of those forced to do his bidding (speaking of 'Black Mirror'). But also the fallen son of Luther too. Blackmail may be on the cards here, but you won't have to be forced to watch this one. Even if you do hide behind your couch cushions for some scenes. 'The Fallen Sun' brings a new day of reckoning for Luther. In big-budget bright lights that illuminate all the darkness. Now is no time to let this franchise die. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Luther', 'Line Of Duty', 'Whatever the next James Bond movie is called.'

COMEDY REVIEW: CHRIS ROCK - SELECTIVE OUTRAGE

  

3.5/5

Between a Slap and a Hard Place.

One year after a pitch for a 'G.I. Jane' sequel was met with a thunderclap that took the air out of the theatre, Chris Rock is back on Netflix for the 'Selective Outrage' of a live-streamed stand-up special. One that left many late subscribers on the outside looking in for a few days like the Fresh Prince who has been Jazzy Jeff'd from the Oscars for the next decade. The punishment doesn't fit the slap...even if he was wearing his Bel-Air ring. And as a huge, remaining fan of both mega-talents, we just want to be done with this thing. It was a bad joke from Chris Rock in bad taste. But like any comedian in that hit-and-miss game, he's made many before and he'll make even more. Then came an even worse reaction from Will Smith, who yes, was defending his wife, but had an opportunity to take the high-road and dress Rock down in his 'King Richard' Best Actor Oscar acceptance speech minutes later. The rapper slash actor has jokes too (we saw the stand-up set with Dave Chappelle). 

Rock's reaction was perfect. He took it like a man. A Manny Pacquiao grand champ. Shook it off like it as nothing. And this is Muhammad Ali and Pookie that we're talking about. Will has show humility since and deserves our forgiveness (but not necessarily Chris Rock's. That's up to him). Everyone makes mistakes and this hugely famous face has been pushed and prodded for years, by people questioning his toughness, manliness and blackness. But that doesn't mean he should have taken it out on a friend whose been rooting for him ever since he showed up at his home in Bel-Air's door in drag. Smith's 'Emancipation' comeback was a valiant return that wasn't exactly the definition of the word for his career, but was a movie with much more meaning. Chris' closing joke about this isn't for a man like me to judge (still, it feels too far). But the dividing lines between both men are still being crossed. What's of real concern is what's being going on between Chris Rock and Jada ever since Pinkett-Smith called for Chris to step down from the 2016 Oscars after Will wasn't nominated for 'Concussion' (cue a classic jab that is more than low-hanging fruit). 

Guaranteed to stir up as much controversy as friend Dave Chappelle's 'The Closer' (who survived a stabbing threat at a show shortly after the Oscars thanks in part to friend of everyone (in a good way) Jamie Foxx "wearing a sheriff's hat") a week before this weekend's Oscars, where everything will happen, everywhere, all at once, as host Jimmy Kimmel really needs his Guillermo security to not schmooze with the stars on the red carpet and have his back. Rock saves what was everyone's best bet for last, as he starts in on the Smith's with less than ten minutes to go in his one hour and six minute 'Tambourine' affair follow-up in Baltimore. Never Scared, he plays everything down after some previous "mad rapper" teases. And then he lets Jada have it as well as some shots at Mr. Smith, having his way with Will. After what happened, he has his rights. And he makes some punctuated points too. But like both sides of a coin. Each side's argument holds more weight than the one-sided mainstream media and social ones in the court of online opinion do. And that's where 'Selective Outrage' makes its point in practice. 

You can't get Simpsons flaming torch mad at one thing and let another slide like he once said about Michael Jackson's first kid. Or as he puts it, you can't listen to Jacko and turn the ignition down on R. Kelly. It's just ignorance, Martin. And hypocrites. He really does make more sense than the common people for what most will label as divisive when it's really being incisive a year later. Hating on him isn't going to make what Will did right. Loving Smith isn't going to take away from that either. You should call out the ones you care about when they've made a mistake, which the man himself is clearly taking ownership of. Also in beefs like Biggie and Tupac, Jay-Z and Nas, or 50 and Ja, blindly siding with Rock won't garner you his respect. Like someone perfectly put it on social media, "hating on DC Comics isn't going to make Captain America shag you". But let's digress. This is getting ludicrous now. Like those who said the Oscars and their ten-year ban didn't do enough to punish Smith. What were they supposed to do?! Kill him?! Besides, Chris Rock's 'Selective Outrage' is much more than all this. 

As we say the first hour focuses on more. Like holding up the mirror to all of us who choose likes over love in this world as shallow as a passive scroll through our not so smart phones. Meghan Markle comes in for some 'South Park' like scrutiny. Elon Musk also gets trolled in the best way, before the photo of the pair sizing each other up playfully plays out over the closing credits. The Kardashians come in for some original jokes and refreshing respect. And Golden State Warrior Draymond Green gets it in the face worse than Patrick Ewing when Chris dunked the rock over him like Scottie Pippen. But it's all jokes to be taken as read. Besides legendary comedians are supposed to toe the line. 

Chris Rock is a G.O.A.T. Especially in New York lore like Spike Lee or M.J. It's time to put aside the Jada feud before it smacks of Eminem and Mariah, and misogyny has no place on the stage (or any arena) like those trying to bum-rush the show. All of this may have turned Will into public enemy number one in a hot take, but don't believe the hype. It's time to fight an even more outrageous power. The selective one. Decked out in a Prince love symbol necklace and the white attire of a P. Diddy party, and with friends like Arsenio Hall, Yasiin Bey, Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Red Hot Chili Pepper Flea and Paul McCartney in the audience for this first of its kind show on Netflix, Chris Rock had his support. But more importantly, closing the curtain after a calendar of Hollywood drama, he had the mic dropping last laugh. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Laugh Longer: 'Chris Rock-Tambourine', 'Chris Rock-Never Scared', 'Dave Chappelle-The Closer'. 

REVIEW: EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE

4/5

The Multiverse Of Madness.

139 Mins. Starring: Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan, Jenny Slate, Harry Shum Jr., James Hong & Jamie Lee Curtis. Directors: Daniels. 

Everything. Jackie Chan made a joke between friends that's been blown way out of proportion by people pointing hot dog fingers. But, if the Daniels (Safdie's beware. Daniel Kwan and Scheinert are the new definitive, directing partnership, co-signed and produced by those amazing, avenging Russo Brothers) really did offer the 'Rush Hour' star 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' before they did fellow icon of Hong Kong Cinema, Michelle Yeoh, then Jackie f'd up! Turn down for what? Because the awesomely absurd 'Everything Everywhere' is not just the film of the year that's set to sweep the Oscars. It's also THE legendary moment of the great Michelle Yeoh, all at once. The 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' legacy maker who has been in everything from Bond and the M.C.U. ('Shang-Chi), to 'Crazy Rich Asians'. No one can do it better than this best actress. 

If you had a slice of our 'Licorice Pizza' (all Haim, no pineapple) then you'll know that it takes more than a minute for some films to come out here in Japan, apart from Disney ones (which is a plus for those who Stan Marvel and Star Wars). But despite some subtitled scenes leaving me lost in translation (much to a sympathetic, Japanese girlfriend who I wasn't going to rudely ask for a play-by-play) with memories of the international '365' and Idris Elba's genie giving me 'Three Thousand Years Of Longing' and language homework last week, it's fitting 'Everything' makes its way to the land of the rising sun, one week before it's going to take a red carpet victory lap in Hollywood's Walk of Fame. 

Everywhere. Yeoh is the star of this show with all googly eyes on her like the IRS does on her character's crumpled receipts. From the classic celebration of her martial artistry, to the dynamics of her dramatic performances. It's a wash for all other comers in her category as this laundromat Queen could go head-to-head with herself as the glass cracks for a multiverse of character personalities. A traditional Chinese singer showing the beauty of her culture. A sign twirler who could stamp on Joaquin Phoenix's Joker. A performance chef that will have DiCaprio's 'Wolf' cursing "f######" Benihana again as they may have got their Disney mice confused with a 'Guardian Of The Galaxy'. And so many more for you to blink and miss (we want to see the anime) in all this 'Doctor Strange' like madness for this superhero movie with soul. 

Making the cubicles of this office iconic like Ricky Gervais, or Steve Carell, this 'Matrix' like movie shows that Yeoh is the one. But there's plenty more moment makers to choose from. The proof is in the bagel. In this parallel universe, 'The Marvelous Ms. Maisel' recurring star Stephanie Hsu steals the show in what really is a family film first. Especially when it comes to the glitter bomb costume department that would even make Elton jealous. Coming out in Argyle golf attire, swinging big, Stephanie scores a home run. Even if that is the wrong sport. You'd be forgiven for the confusion, as Hsu changes clothes faster than a Pharrell and Jay-Z runway. And go! Between a rock and a heart place, this truly is 'Everything'. And her, the next great actor on everybody's lips. 

All at once. The moment of this epic movie belongs in Ke Huy Quan's fanny pack as it slaps, ready for this year's Academy. Even Keanu can't kick it quite like this. "Are you Short Round?" Han Solo asked what looked like an old-friend on a red carpet. "Okey-dokey, Dr. Jones", he sure is. As photos with Harrison Ford and 'Indiana Jones' director Steven Spielberg (going toe-to-toe for the Oscar with his 'Fablemans' family also out this week in the Far East) went viral like Ke Huy's moment. Quan owns this picture. Just like 'Big Trouble In Little China' and dubbed 'Wayne's World 2' legend James Hong. Who's still doing it this week. With more movies than fellow American legend Willie Nelson has albums.

But between the 'Glee' of 'Crazy Rich Asians' star Harry Shum Jr. and an unleashed Jenny Slate (no animals, no animals) we haven't even got to an unrecognizable, but undeniable Jamie Lee Curtis yet. The knives are out for a scarier performance than all her 'Halloween's', but how about the gold of her globe reaching, women supporting women moment? We've already said that this is 'Everything Everywhere All At Once'. But it truly is. An epic, existential event and the best production company in the business, A24's biggest movie. It's 'Hereditary'. Family matters more than any special effect. And 'Everything' has both in an abundance of artistic riches that hits right at the crazy heart. All together now for the identity of this generational classic of new Hollywood, straight out of Hong Kong cinema. And the Oscar goes to...everything. The googly eyes have it. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon', 'The Matrix', 'Ratatouille'. 

REVIEW: THE FABELMANS

4/5

Life Finds A Way. 

151 Mins. Starring: Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, Gabriel LaBelle, Seth Rogen, David Lynch & Judd Hirsch. Director: Steven Spielberg. 

The magic of movies is extraordinary. Even when you're rushing from the overtime of real life after your Dolly like 9 to 5 to make the late showing. Asking your date what you're seeing again, even though you know the name. Getting your popcorn and condiments in comfortable order as you rush, because you think you've missed the start, but in reality it's "just" the trailers. Hushed tones and dim screens. Then the lights get low and it's here. The movie moment you've been waiting for. And it's worthy of your own award. That childlike wonder never leaves us. Even if our first time left us more afraid than in awe of the giants of the screen. The booming sound. The dark theatre of the mind. It's like taking your first leap in love and life. You're always scared to make that jump. But when you do...man!

'Jaws', 'Jurassic Park'. 'Close Encounters Of The Third Kind' and 'E.T.'. 'Saving Private Ryan'. 'The Color Purple'. And lately, a 'Bridge Of Spies' and 'Ready Player One'. Just a snapshot of why Steven Spielberg remains not only one of the greatest, if not the best directors living and working today, but the G.O.A.T. when it comes to all-time Hollywood movie making. His name as famous as the bright lights of Times Square, Madison Square Garden, or the Hollywood sign itself. Flying in the golden era 90s like Michael Jordan with all he did and all that came before with him. The Tom Hanks (they made more than a few together too) of the director's chair. The Springsteen of the silver-screen. And like that boss, he's not quitting. Put him on Mount Rushmore. Whether a cinematic or all-American one for his Stars and Stripes.

Following his 'West Side Story' remake however, New Hollywood's own gives us his most personal project yet in 'The Fablemans'. A semi-autobiographical movie that mirrors his 'Boyhood' and a Scorsese 'Hugo' hug of love for the craft of cinema. Coming of age and dedicated to his parents, Leah and Arnold, Spielberg's movies have always revealed more about his life and times, innermost thoughts and feelings. From 'E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial' to a 'War Of The Worlds', even his science-fictions have revealed the dark side of family drama underneath all those special-effects as a matter of fact. And loosely based on Steven's life, this is as close to the bone as it gets. In his latest chapter of cinematic poetry that is rhyme and reason to why 'The Fablemans' is atop next weekend's Oscar race with Netflix's 'All Quiet On The Western Front' remake (just as good as his 'Saving Private') and the juggernaut that is Daniels' and Michelle Yeoh's 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' (also released this week in Japan) with an old friend of his and Indiana Jones. 

Scoring critical acclaim, reuniting with the legendary composer John Williams with another string stirring soundtrack, this project has been in the making for more than two decades. And now the man who gave us many of the greatest shows on earth pays tribute to the railroad train tracks of the actual one that inspired him to play with more than a train set. All as a young director who came up with ingenious, before their time directorial techniques to get the shots that he wanted. Without Spielberg we wouldn't quite have the modern day blockbuster as big as we do. Or the deep and dark drama, mainstream accessible in acclaimed movies. A pioneer and a purist. This is a celebration of cinema. Not his success, as this passion project's labour of love doesn't even have a note of narcissism in today's self-obsessed world. 

Skilled with a 'Super 8' at finding young stars, Gabriel LaBelle ('The Predator') is exactly that. Bringing young accomplished angst and genial genius to his gregarious and accented performance. Expect this camera boy to be in front of many screens and scenes soon. Spielberg also brings out the big guns for powerful parental performances. Figures like the indie Hollywood likes of Michelle Williams and Paul Dano. Williams keeps bettering all her best performances in a formidable filmography as a loving and longing mother who won't be lonely when it comes to her Oscar nomination. Whilst after his definitive directorial debut in 2018's 'Wildlife' and riddling us that in last years 'The Batman', Paul Dano is back to playing it straight as a kindly father hiding much more beneath that show up for work demeanour that doesn't even take off the tie at the table. 

Seth Rogen's best friend character who is more than an uncle shows us more about this family that saves on the silverware for piano playing and eats off paper plates and sheets. Whilst David Lynch makes a legendary cameo as another iconic director with the best advice. But it's Judd Hirsch's brief but beautiful visit and speech about family and art that has garnered him the chance to make an Oscar one. Ahhh this love letter to family will tear you in two. Tearing you up on more than one family occasion. This graduating film with honours is not one to ditch today. Especially with a sensational scene by the lockers, behind the prom scenes that shows you exactly how young hearts and bullied adolescent life is so complicated and complex in all its nuance. All without a smidgen of Hollywood corsage dress-up. Now how's that for a hallmark homecoming for the popcorn King? Everything happened in Steven Spielberg's life for a reason. Everywhere, all at once. This is no fable, man. Now tell me, what was your favourite part? TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Boyhood', 'Hugo', 'E.T.'

REVIEW: MAGIC MIKE'S LAST DANCE

3.5/5

Save The Last Dance.

112 Mins. Starring: Channing Tatum, Salma Hayek Pinault, Jemelia George, Ayub Khan Din & Vicki Pepperdine. Director: Steven Soderbergh. 

Brad Pitt. Ryan Reynolds. There was a time when Channing Tatum was coming for their Hollywood heartthrob throne. The 'Step Up', '21 Jump Street' and of course 'Magic Mike' franchise star who made his breakthrough on Samuel L. Jackson's 'Coach Carter' team was holding court as one of the biggest stars in the world. Not to mention all the cards as 'X-Men's' Gambit. Sadly, it seems that Marvel movie has come up as snake eyes, missed much like the Stateside 'Statesmen', 'Kingsman' spin-off we'd like to see out the 'Golden Circle' after he stole the show spinning a blunderbuss like Schwarzenegger on the back of a chopper. Lately, the 'White House Down' and 'Foxcatcher' standout with classic cameos in the canon of Michael Mann's 'Public Enemies' and Quentin Tarantino's 'The Hateful Eight' has been quiet as kept. Taking a five-year break, aside from 'Dog', 'The Lost City' and cameos in Pitt ('Bullet Train') and Reynolds ('Free Guy') movies. 

Yet, the all-singing and dancing actor who knows how to steal the show from the likes of Clooney and the Cohen's, tap dancing with 'No Dames' in 'Hail Caesar', always has a trick or two up his sleeve when he happens to be wearing clothes. He may not have his 'Gambit' right now, but he has the rights to a 'Ghost' remake as he recently told Hollywood's Vanity Fair over a pottery wheel for a cover feature. And it's not like the 'Logan Lucky' star who has even played Superman is 'LEGO' form hasn't been busy over the past five years. Recovering from divorce, he has found love again with an amazing actress, global star and daughter of a rock God and 80s icon, Zoë Kravitz (his next project is her 'Pussy Island') and he's also taken his 'Magic Mike' striptease from the screens to the stages of London's West End. Now that's some major moves for the man who dances like Usher and Ne-Yo. 

Now after the fun-filled, bro's trip, Gregory Jacobs' 2015 sequel that went 'XXL' with a classic convenience store Joe Manganiello scene, Channing is back all over your Tatum. Reuniting with the 'Side Effects' of first film director Steven Soderbergh for 'Magic Mike's Last Dance' like a Chicago Bulls documentary. Moving from the heat of Miami and a steamy, private affair of a dance on South Beach. To the theatrical talents of London's Big Smoke and mirrors. You can call this a West End adaptation. As 'Magic Mike' goes back from the stage to the screen for the curtain call conclusion to this terrific trilogy that shows the seedy dark side of this world and also the fun you can have when you just let yourself go. 

What starts as an 'Indecent Proposal' turns into 'The Full Monty' for the prim and proper British crowd. Peep the flash-mob like choreography on the double-decker red bus for the great Vicki Pepperdine that turns your morning commute into something NSFW. From Florida, to the keys of the U.K. city, Tatum is tremendously talented and more versatile than you think. Stepping up in what really is a tribute to hip-hop dance, more than gratuity for glee. Empowerment is on the cards though with the powerful Salma Hayek Pinault punctuating this picture with her presence as a rich socialite and the combustible chemistry she has with Channing. Making him a Marlon offer The Godfather of dance can't refuse. 

Dance with me, as theirs will be too hot for anyone in attendance to handle. The exits having to be opened up to let out all that steam. Her driver, 'Rafta, Rafta' playwright Ayub Khan Din offers dry comic relief. Whilst Hayek's on-screen daughter Jemelia George make for a novel narrator. If you missed the sold out live show because someone was covering your eyes, then this is the movie for you, bringing it all back to life. As Ginuwine's (we hope they cut him a check) 'Pony' (there's still no beat like this Timbaland bounce) rides again, we really hope this isn't the last dance. Perhaps the big-screen will head small (although that's probably not what women want). In the words of Vin Diesel for this fast and furious film, "one last ride"? TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Magic Mike', 'Magic Mike XXL', 'Step Up'.