REVIEW: NUTCRACKERS

3.5/5

Meet The Jansons

104 Mins. Starring: Ben Stiller, Linda Cardellini, Homer Janson, Ulysses Janson, Atlas Janson, Arlo Janson, Toby Huss, Edi Patterson & Tim Heidecker. Screenplay: Leland Douglas. Director: David Gordon Green. On: Hulu & Disney +.

'Drive' with Ben Stiller this weekend, and we'll finally hear the long-awaited 'Lana' 'SOS' deluxe from SZA, with the 'Dodgeball' and 'Night At The Museum' actor starring in the lead single's lip-syncing music video, tuning his radio in to some real carpool karaoke. Drive with the 'Meet The Parents' actor and New York Knicks superfan (who really needs to direct a documentary on the comeback trail of the NBA team with some of his Madison Square Garden courtside iPhone filmed shots), in a yellow Porsche to the farmland, and you'll find 'Nutcrackers' under the tree. A perfect 'Greenberg' meets 'Uncle Buck' movie that's more in line with the 'Zoolander' actor and 'Tropic Thunder' director's work on the likes of 'The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty', 'While We're Young' and 'The Meyerowitz Stories' on Netflix. An offbeat and outstanding ode to family, just in time for Christmas. Yet this nutcracker and the four busting his balls, is not just the Ben Stiller show. No matter how fondly he brings the family feeling, off the beaten track and with no Hollywood fluff. 

This is all about the Jansons...and the kids are more than alright. Despite their characters losing their mother, as uncle Ben steps in. Introducing the inspired, Homer Janson, Ulysses Janson, Atlas Janson and Arlo Janson. Four fantastic boys, two terrific twins, who are all stars of the future. Especially when it comes to Homer's odyssey. One part, 'Billy Elliott', all dancing in honour for the ladies in his life. The first crush, who he wants as his first kiss. His late mother, who he still knows, is watching every step. "The holidays can drive you nuts", the classic Christmas poster of 'Nutcrackers' say, but these children are cracking good fun as they tie Stiller up in fairy light knots. Chasing chickens and busted baubles from a fallen tree as the always amazing Linda Cardellini's ('Dead To Me', 'ER') social worker looks on with a Christmas cap, clutching documents she hopes Ben adopts. But is there more there with the 'Daddy's Home' and 'Hawkeye', Christmas special star? After all, that's what the holidays are all about.

Premiering on Hulu and Disney Plus, November 29th (yeah, we're a little late wrapping this gift of a film up, thank SZA for the reminder to get it done like 'The Cable Guy'), after opening the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, this David Gordon Green ('Pineapple Express', 'The Sitter') directed delight (with a script by Leland Douglas) also features nice turns from Toby Huss, Edi Patterson and Tim Heidecker. Especially when it comes to the fuss at the Huss house, away in a manger, no ice cream cone crib for a bed. Gordon Green is one of the most versatile directors in the game. Nic Cage in 'Joe'. Al Pacino in 'Manglehorn'. A 'Stronger' Jake Gyllenhaal. The horrors of a 'Halloween' trilogy, co-wrote with frequent collaborator and 'Your Highness' (now, that's truly terrifying) star Danny McBride, but he hits the sweet spot here. From the Windy City of Chicago, to rural Ohio, you'll want to foster this one, people. This comedy drama dance really is the better nutcracker. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Nutcracking: 'Meet The Parents', 'Uncle Buck', 'Greenberg'.

TV REVIEW: DREAM PRODUCTIONS - Season 1

3/5

The Life Of Riley

4 Episodes. Starring: Paula Pell, Richard Ayoade, Maya Rudolph, Amy Poehler, Diane Lane & Kyle MacLachlan. Created By: Mike Jones. On: Disney +.

Dream on, Disney and Pixar. Even with 'Moana 2' hitting shores this fall, like a 'Mufasa' 'Lion King' spin-off clawing it's way to Christmas, summer smash sequel (and the sensational sar-casm) 'Inside Out 2' is still the biggest blockbuster of the year. Take that, steak knives and the chimichanga chopsticks of 'Deadpool and Wolverine'. Not to mention, one of the most successful animations of all-time. So you just know Pixar had to shine a lamplight on it even more, like the seriously sweet short 'Riley's First Date'. In the same vein, or workplace, of the 'Monsters Inc' spin-off 'Monsters At Work', we get the 'Dream Productions' of what happens in Riley's dreams, with no monsters behind the door nightmares, when the emotions take a break like lifeless toys when Andy comes back in the room.

Joy to the world, this Christmastime. Amy Poehler's star of the show shows up, alongside legendary parents Diane Lane and Kyle MacLachlan, and other emotional cameos for your emoticon responses. Although the Maya Hawke, new teenage dreams of angst are left on the cutting room floor...too many cooks and all that pushing the red button. The main character in Riley's story, apart from her autonomy, is actually Paula Pell's same named Paula Persimmon, a jellybean of a dream director, who wants to turn Riley's R.E.M. into as gold a spectacle as the ones under her Ronald McDonald meets Grimace hair (hey, I'm just jealous). But when her dreams feel flat as an old hat, and her best friend can't take it any more, she finds herself forced to work with the turtleneck of an insufferable auteur director (his glasses probably don't even have lenses) in Kenny "Xeni" Drewberry, played perfectly by 'The IT Crowd' and Disney voice regular, Richard Ayoade.

Life is but a daydream from there on out, from this Mike Jones ("who?" No, not that one) production from the world of 'Inside Out'. Four fantastic episodes streaming on Disney Plus, full of Easter Eggs and unicorn rainbows. The reason we don't have anxiety, worry not, is that this is an interquel (say what now?), set between 'Inside Out' and 'Inside Out 2'. The next big tween-dream from showrunner Jones, who earnt his credit co-writing 'Soul' and 'Luca', watched together runs like a movie in itself at 82 minutes long. Bringing in even more big stars like the boss of Maya Rudolph, who, speaking of this time of year, wowed 'A Very Murray Christmas' with her rendition of 'Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)', not many people knowing she's the daughter of the great Minnie Riperton. Anyway, back to it, will we see more 'Dream Productions' for a season two, like 'Monsters At Work' was given the greenlight? Only in Hollywood. With the biggest animated opening since Marvel's 'What If...?', we can only dream. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Inside Out 2', 'Riley's First Date', 'Monsters At Work'.

TV REVIEW: THE SIMPSONS - O C'MON ALL YE FAITHFUL

4/5

Ding Doh! Merrily On High

45 Mins. Starring: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria & Harry Shearer, with special guest stars, Derren Brown, Patti LaBelle & Pentatonix. Directors: Debbie Bruce Mahan & Matthew Faughnan. Created By: Matt Groening. On: Disney +.

'Tis the season to be okily-dokily. Just over two calendars ago, I decided to watch an episode of 'The Simpsons' every day, on the train to work (it takes exactly 24 minutes, animes), from season one onward...knowing that I fell off around about the time J. Cole said Kendrick Lamar did ("O C'mon!"). This Christmas, recently adding Matt Groening's 'Futurama' to my future return journey plans (a 'Disenchantment' of a Netflix series will have to wait), I hit series seventeen, with a long way to go. The yellow family falling through more couches than remote controls recently put up series thirty-six on the chalkboard. And best believe people still are reading and watching this. With even more spin-offs than their sister shows, Lisa, Maggie, Bart, Homer and Marge also have given us some special editions of late for their Star Wars and Marvel, Mickey Mouse share house. 

Last week, Disney Plus streamed 'The Simpsons Funday Football' from last week's headlining games between the Bengals and the Cowboys (I guess Homer did buy them after all. And this one, after 'Frasier' Kelsey Grammar's Sideshow Bob gave us 'The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year' at the villainous Halloween, really is the season, as two years after The Simpsons met the Bocellis for 'Feliz Navad', we get 'O C'mon All Ye Faithful' under our bursting tree. Directed by Debbie Bruce Mahan and Matthew Faughnan, 'The Simpsons' bring all the old favourite's back, like animation's Beatles. Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria and Harry Shearer. Joined in guest star lore by Great British illusionist Derren Brown and soul icon Patti LaBelle, duetting with the powerful a cappellas of the powerful Pentatonix powerhouse for one 'Silent Night' you'll be singing until New Year, as all is bright yellow.

Do you still believe in Santa Claus? C'mon! Forget milk and cookies. It's time to leave a Duff and donuts out for Homer...and Ralph Wiggum can stick the carrot up his nose like a candy cane. You know, episodes of 'The Simpsons' usually play out between the God like clouds. The first ten minutes are a funny set-up of crazy calamity, before the rest of the episode and the real story takes hold. Well, in this double forty-five minute special (the first ever, and maybe a short sign of things to come), the first half has everybody believing Homer is Santa, thanks to Derren Brown's British accent and Homer's Hanks in 'Cast Away' beard (kudos to Ralph's elf with hair thinner than mine and the best fart joke ever). Meanwhile, the second searches for the true meaning of Christmas as Ned Flanders of all people struggles with his faith like that time he lost it (I'm close, Neddy). I guess that's what happens when you SPOILER ALERT lose two wives (wait...what...WHO! I'm not there yet!). But alas, spreading the holiday cheer for all to hear on the 35th anniversary of the first Simpsons Christmas special roasting on an open fire, you'll believe in a miracle on Evergreen Terrace. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Faithful: 'The Simpsons: The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year', 'The Simpsons Meet The Bocellis In Feliz Navadad', 'The Simpsons Funday Football'.

STAND-UP REVIEW: RONNY CHIENG - LOVE TO HATE IT

4/5

Hawaiian Punchline

65 Mins. Starring: Ronny Chieng. Director: Cameron Barnett. On: Netflix.

It's been five years since an 'An Asian Comedian (Destroyed) America' (the perfect way to spend my first night after moving to Japan), and yet I'm still reviewing Ronny Chieng shows (I guess I didn't listen and take not to 'Speakeasy' two years back). Just like Netflix is still a joke, falling for the end of year laughs from the likes of Ali Wong ('Single Lady') and Jamie Foxx telling everybody 'What Had Happened Was...', to tears of more than just laughter. After a year dominated by John Mulaney's own return in 'Everybody's In LA' (which Chieng was a guest on), not to mention the greats, like 'The Dreamer' of Dave Chappelle and the Ricky Gervais 'Armageddon', it's time to give Ronny his flower necklace too. Getting off the plane for a Hawaiian special, 'Love To Hate It', directed by Cameron Barnett. Just don't give them to his mother.

You must be filled with all kinds of hate if you don't love this show dedicated to his dear Dad, who, upon learning about his gig on 'The Daily Show' (via a Twitter refresh), discovered his son was "just a sidekick". Yet he and we all really know that the 'Shang-Chi' star is much more of a marvel than all that. Especially when he poses for fans with his arms well and truly tucked and folded. Chieng will tell you like it is when it comes to the idea that his own son may want to take up his microphone one day. But how his boy will make it here in the first place is an origin story worthy of an ESPN 30 For 30 the way he beats the buzzer with one shot you don't want right between the eyes. But this is far from the last dance of Ronny and his lovely wife (who we get to see in the Cadillac drive opening to the theatre) of almost a decade. They've still got plenty of years to enjoy life, before they get like their friends who, "look like s###!"

And maybe think like it too, as the razor-sharp comedian tells us he has a few friends whose preference for baseball cap colours stray a little too close to a Los Angeles Angel. No Shohei. Dodge this, all you want, but a few of your own closest friends might have opinions even closer to the bone. He sees their point too, although he still knows how to poke fun, all whilst prodding the cancel culture crowd with some real clickbait. He says all men are Jordan Peterson closer to that awful way of thinking when algorithms take us from dumbbells to dumba##es. With America destroying himself, this stand-up guy who speaks anything but easy tells us we should do like the Koreans and enjoy life. Even when we're 'Squid Game' killing each other, like the Western reality show version of the landmark TV show, whose second season comes this Boxing Day. This genius monologue, like his taxing one on the US, is more of a Netflix and K-Pop plug than Taika Waititi's 'The Boy & The Octopus' short is a Disney one, but at a plus, it still reaches you like anime in the face of a reserved Japan. Can't hate on that. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: Ronny Chieng - 'Speakeasy', Ronny Chieng - 'Asian Comedian Destroys America', Ali Wong - 'Single Lady'

SHORT REVIEW: THE BOY & THE OCTOPUS

4/5

Octopus's Garden

4 Mins. Starring: Solomon Horta & Solaya Sang. Director: Taika Waititi. On: Disney +.

'Tis the season to be squishy? Studio Ghibli's 'The Boy and the Heron' has some competition this year with the short-round of 'Thor-Ragnarok' and 'Jojo Rabbit' director Taika Waititi's (who last gave us, 'Next Goal Wins') 'The Boy & The Octopus', on streaming service Disney Plus, just in time for Christmas. From under the sea, to under the tree, Solaya Sang ('St. Baptitste's') can't believe it, as her son (newcomer Solomon Horta with more to come) emerges from the ocean, back on the beach, with the cutest octopus on his head.

The lifeguard can't do a thing about it, after lifting one tentacle. Stuck to his head, the boy and octopus are one. Talk about a "host" family for this festive season. So, Solomon learns to live with it...for the next four minutes. The boy makes a fond new friend in the cutest CG that will stay with you long after the decorations come down on twelfth night. They laugh and play together, even having lightsabre battles for the forthcoming 'Star Wars' director. This sweet short is a real marvel, between touching tinsel and baubles, to hinting at more Disney property than a short from 'The Simpsons' (who also have a new festive treat with the Derren Brown hypnotic Christmas double-episode, 'O C'mon All Ye Faithful').

Playing like the best John Lewis commercial, you will cry and feel as warm as all that. Even at all the not so subtle product promotion. But how does Mickey Mouse feel about having his own merchandise desecrated for the sweet spot? Feeling like something between 'E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial' and 'The Snowman', 'The Boy & The Octopus' is another Waititi wonder (like the underrated 'Love and Thunder') that finds itself next to the beautiful Yuletide stop-motion of the girl and the owl in 'An Almost Christmas Story'. All as 'Mufasa: The Lion King' looks to do the 'Moana 2' sequel business this weekend. Get your tentacles into this. But remember, an octopus is for life, not just for Christmas. Put da takoyaki DAOWN! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Boy', 'Next Goal Wins', 'An Almost Christmas Story'.

DOCUMENTARY REVIEW: RETURN OF THE KING - THE FALL AND RISE OF ELVIS PRESLEY

4/5

Elvis Has Reentered The Building

91 Mins. Starring: Elvis Presley, Priscilla Presley, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Corgan, Darlene Love, Conan O'Brien & Baz Luhrmann. Director: Jason Hehir. On: Netflix.

Call it a comeback! The King is back. In a fond fall time for music documentaries focussing on specific periods of time in some of the radio's biggest star's lives this Christmas, Netflix give us 'Return Of The King-The Fall And Rise Of Elvis Presley'. Directed by Jason Hehir ('The Last Dance' of the legendary Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls), and looking for more like 'The Searcher', 'The Fall And Rise Of Elvis Presley' looks at the time his all-leather comeback special got people all shook up like The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show. They show up too, like The King does on their latest Disney documentary 'Beatles '64', about the time they took America by a storm of love and sea change after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Just like Elton John's own 'Never Too Late' time capsule, also on Disney Plus, looks back on fond friendships with the likes of John Lennon and Andy Warhol.

Legends never die. The neon name of ELVIS in big, bold, red letters is celebrated in testimonials by 'Elvis' (epic) director Baz Luhrmann, not to mention his wife, Priscilla Presley, who got to tell her side of the story with Sofia Coppola's 'Priscilla' (powerful). Soul singer Darlene Love stirs more of Presley's proud roots in black music. Whilst, also along for the ride, The Smashing Pumpkins' Billy Corgan, Late Night host Conan O'Brien, and 'The Boss' Bruce Springsteen (who once stormed the gates of Graceland for an audience with The King...that he didn't get), also offer their profound voices to the proceedings. Just like there is much prose on Presley (like 'Elvis and the Colonel', or 'The Gospel Side Of Elvis'), this is another great film to add to the vault. All as Netflix continue their run like Vegas, after last year's 'Agent Elvis' animation (voiced perfectly by Matthew McConaughey), after The King once dreamt of solving crimes on the side. But in this fall and rise of the house of Elvis, let's remember his wise words about life that we shouldn't sleep on. About surrounding yourself with the right people, the one girl, that will make you feel happiness. No matter how long it takes (like it should). For there is no encore.

Featuring footage from the engrossing Elvis comeback special, that began awash with nerves, but ended in the charm and charisma of a God, this documentary special is definitive, adding to Netflix's many docs that are more masterful than their movies (but we won't 'Carry-On' with all that (we literally did it yesterday) as we may as well treat Netflix like a TV channel and not a company these days). This true story of triumph comes just a few years after 'Beatles '64' in 1968, when the Fab Four were playfully shaking like him when drawing comparisons in press conferences by American media. But these four Pelvises loved The King and even nervously sat down for dinner with him, Paul McCartney even relaying a message of how much Elvis meant to them, as he couldn't find the ways to whisper it to the throne at the head of the table. The 'Return Of The King' like a 'Lord Of The Rings' has many a meaningful and mesmerizing story like that. Featuring the fall with Colonel Parker side lining the actual (who made more than Steve McQueen like a James Dean) actor into Old McDonald type movies, to his phoenix like rise and return in hell for leather. He never really left the building. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Elvis', 'Agent Elvis', 'Beatles '64'.

REVIEW: CARRY-ON

3.5/5

Airplaneman

119 Mins. Starring: Taron Egerton, Sofia Carson, Danielle Deadwyler, Sinqua Walls, Logan Marshall-Green, Theo Rossi, Dean Norris & Jason Bateman. Screenplay: T.J Fixman. Director: Jaume Collet-Serra. On: Netflix.

"Trust you to watch this right before you fly home for Christmas", my dear mum said to me as I watched Netflix's new blockbuster with them on the streaming service via Skype yesterday. Remembering, I watched 'Sully: Miracle On The Hudson' a day before flying to New York...in IMAX! "This is the new Die Hard!" And she's as right, as it is always lovely to watch films with them from back home in the United Kingdom to here in Japan. 'Carry-On' has nothing to do with Sid James or Barbara Windsor. Although 'Carry On...Through Airport Security' has a nice alarm ring to it ("is there a wire in that bra, madam?!"). But it is a Christmas movie, just in time for your homecoming trip. Especially after Dwyane 'The Rock' Johnson and Chris 'The Captain' Evans' fun 'Red One' wasn't as 'Oppenheimer' outstanding as first thought. Game over! And game on for this great N blockbuster, for a change' that takes cues from everything from 'Phone Booth' and the Denzel and Travolta version of 'The Taking Of Pelham 123', and 'Eagle' or 'Red Eye' and 'Air Force One' before you get on this plane like Samuel's snakes.

Right now, over on Disney Plus, Elton John's 'Never Too Late', has made Christmas come early with one of the finest films of the fall. Meanwhile, the man who played him in 'Rocketman' (and voiced the audio version of Sir John's autobiography 'Me'), 'Kingsman' and 'Eddie The Eagle' actor Taron Egerton is manning his career again as a TS-motherf#####g A agent like Lil Rel Howery in 'Get Out'. In an 'Unstoppable' thriller for 'The Commuter' as a clusterf### of chaos and carnage ensue with calamity, the 'Tetris' actor must stack luggage like bricks if he wants to escape this one. With a homemade plastic gun to his head in this line of fire. Aiming for a promotion after cupid struck 'Robin Hood's' heart with fellow airport employee Sofia Carson (Netflix's 'Purple Hearts' and Disney's 'Descendants'), absolutely amazing, he looks to step up to the plate and front-lines of airport baggage. One run by 'Breaking Bad's'' Dean Norris (oh so good), who friend Sinqua Walls (ditto) of 'Friday Night Lights' and 'White Men Can't Jump' reboot fame is no stranger to.

Christmas in the Ozarks. I hear it's dark and cold this time of year. For all the Netflix stars on showcase here (we see you Watcher, 'Daredevil's' Theo Rossi, moonlighting for 'The Penguin' over on HBO), like 'The Piano Lesson' and 'The Harder They Fall' actress of the moment Danielle Deadwyler continuing to cop great roles. It's the 'Arrested Development' of Jason Bateman who really carries this complex set picture. A better airport heist than the one in the last 'Mission: Impossible', with a real dead reckoning. Breathing down Egerton's employee earpiece like it was his neck, for some of the best man-on-man action since 'Man On A Ledge', Colin Farrell's mystery caller, or the time Washington had a waltz with John Travolta like it was 'Saturday Night Fever'. Greasing the roller luggage wheels, Bateman has a bag and like the opposite of Gandalf, and a well-worn saying, this too, shall pass. A sweet subplot with Logan Marshall-Green also shows up in this T.J. Fixman fixed script. As dynamite director Jaume Collet-Serra ('Black Adam', 'The Shallows' and a run of Liam Neeson movies like, you guessed it, 'The Commuter') gives us an explosive, ludicrous epic you'll love just in time for Christmas. You can even carry it with you on the day itself. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Boarding: 'Die Hard', 'Phone Booth', 'The Taking Of Pelham 123 (2009)'.

DOCUMENTARY REVIEW: ELTON JOHN - NEVER TOO LATE

4/5

The Bitch Is Late

103 Mins. Starring: Elton John, Bernie Taupin, Dua Lipa & John Lennon. Directors: R.J. Cutler & David Furnish. On: Disney +.

In the same week that 'Rocketman' Taron Edgerton gives us some 'Carry-On' for Netflix (with no sign of Sid James), Sir Elton John unpacks his long, winding road tour bag, as he continues to say 'Farewell Yellow Brick Road' on streaming services. Following his live look at his last, bejewelled swing in Shohei's house ('Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium'), Disney Plus give us their new Elton John documentary 'Never Too Late', in conjunction with and leading up to that showstopper. The final frames playing out the same in this special directed by good friend R.J. Cutler in interview and husband David Furnish. Reminding us why the bitch won't be back. Giving it all up for the greater good of what really matters. When you see Reg interact with his children on Facetime, reaching to call your own, you'll understand. When you see his radio show with Furnish (feeling strange about today's use of the word "queer")  give a stage to kids bands coming up and of age, you'll fall in love with this Sir, all over again.

This Billy Joel besting piano man can rival all the Disney documentaries touring their way through your watchlists right now. The 'Thank You, Goodnight' Bon Jovi story miniseries. Fellow Jersey boy Bruce Springsteen and his E Street Band's 'Road Diary'. 'Never Too Late', coming right before Christmas, is the perfect accompaniment to the big-three of his live movie, the 'Rocketman' biopic, and the 'ME' autobiography, also Audiobook read to us by his MARV 'Kingsman' sequel co-star Eggsy, Egerton. Just like when John broke America like Beatlemania, after taking the Troubadour (captured compellingly in cinema), with five albums in the chart in one calendar (what a time to really be alive), 'Never Too Late' even rivals the new Martin Scorsese produced 'Beatles '64' doc on Disney. 'Too Late' also takes us deeper into Elton's working relationship and wonderful friendship with the late, great John Lennon. Taking the stage with the other dear John for what ended up being his last time in concert. 

Animated, like many of this movie's artistic and beautiful way of telling backstory, Elton John Lennon get up to plenty of mischief as these pop stars recall a time pop artist Andy Warhol and that camera he carried everywhere came knocking at their hotel door. This year's Glastonbury headliner Dua Lipa also shows up in this show, as the two duet over the Elton mash-up of 'Cold Heart' interspersed with 'Rocket Man'. This long, long time, gives it up for the real co-star of this show, however, in songwriter Bernie Taupin. The man he loved more than love itself (nothing sexual), as the songwriting pair matched-up to Lennon and McCartney, lyric line for lyric line. Like '64', 'Never Too Late' looks at the time Reg Dwight came to America like Neil Diamond. Detailing his success, but also the sobering story of his descent into drugs. Not to mention how the rocket red's glare reacted to him coming out. And you thought America's resistance to the "long hair" of the Fab Four was bad. This Walt Disney and Rocket Entertainment epic, that made its debut at the Toronto Film Festival in September, is never one to miss. 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road: The Final Elton John Performances and the Years That Made His Legend' may have been too long a title, but don't be too late for this. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Playing: 'Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium', 'Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band', 'Beatles '64'.

REVIEW: KRAVEN THE HUNTER

3/5

The Huntsman

127 Mins. Starring: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ariana DeBose, Fred Hechinger, Alessandro Nivola, Christopher Abbott & Russell Crowe. Screenplay: Richard Wenk, Art Marcum & Matt Holloway. Director: J.C. Chandor. In: Theatres.

The hunt for the red arachnid continues with the latest and perhaps the last Sony ("in association with" Marvel) Spider-Man (SSU) web spin-off, 'Kraven The Hunter'. A mere month after Tom Hardy's 'Venom' had his 'Last Dance'. Ending the same year that began with all those 'Madame Web' memes, making 'Morbius' look like the Scorsese "absolute cinema" gag that well-intentioned cop character star Tyrese Gibson fell for on social media. Starring 'Kick Ass' swolle superhero Aaron Taylor-Johnson, the former Quicksilver in Marvel's avenging 'Age Of Ulton' makes even more madness in this multiverse as more classic and cult comic characters are added to this mix. "Come see this movie. I promise you it won't disappoint," urges ATJ. And you know what, he's got a predator point sharper than the blades he keeps in his 'Rambo' forest. A Jurassic world away from the big cities of the smoke and mirrors of London and the capital criminals in Mother Russia.

Sure, and we've said it before, these movies feel like they were made in the early 2000s. But to a writer pushing 40 like he is this pen, and refusing to believe the original 'Spider-Man', 'X-Men' and 'Fantastic Four' were over twenty years ago, that's not necessarily a bad thing. If this really is the end, at least Sony's shared universe goes out on one of its better bangs. Bond to be (?) Taylor-Johnson has played everyone from a young John Lennon ('Nowhere Boy', take note, Harris Dickinson), to both Elizabeth Olsen's brother ('AOU') to lover ('Godzilla'), and we really could see him muscling up in the originally intended 'No Way Home' of Tom Holland's universe...if only this Marvel would know his name. Craving this hunter, Aaron attacks this movie with everything he's got. Owning us with a bow and arrow and better office audition than Deadpool's Avenger one. Not to mention an ante upped accent than his one that rivalled Evan Peters' Pietro. And when Johnson takes his seat, striking that iconic pose in the lion's mane jacket, just like the comic, the character he hunts down to the throne, is his. 

Other names that won't come off the multiple Marvel list, belong to Zeus himself, Russell Crowe ('Thor: Love and Thunder'), compelling us with his criminal intent. The sins of this 'Gladiator' father aren't just visited on one son, mind you. As one-part of the Joaquin Phoenix like 'Gladiator II' scene-stealing (see a Human Torch, for the blazing and ignited other half) Fred Hechinger is truly chameleonic. Who else could command both Harry Styles and Tony Bennett on stage? And just like Crowe calls it, we can't trust anyone who doesn't like the man who left his heart in San Francisco. Also alongside this hunter, is the huntress with a Hawkeye bow of 'Westside Story', Oscar, BAFTA and Golden Globe winner Ariana DeBose's Calypso. Asha's 'Wish' is upon star status in a Hollywood that is all too quick to forget actors of the Academy when they're given the brunt end of big-budget blockbusters. But she adds substance.

'A Most Violent Year' (absolute classic) direct J.C. Chandor ('All Is Lost') is also an emerging leading light who gives us decadent direction. Even if, like Netflix's 'Triple Frontier', he's better than this substandard. Perhaps it's too many cooks (or writer) spoiling the soup (or script), as Richard Wenk, Art Marcum and Matt Holloway all lend their pen to the proceedings. Yet, 'Kraven The Hunter' looks pretty good for a Sony/Marvel movie. Especially on the new planetarium like surround-screen Dolby Atmos, IMAX rivalling experience of Screen X that really climbs the walls like a Parker. Sometimes jarring, especially when it comes to the still images (there are some kinks to be worked out), but saved for the best moments, this X could mark the spot for a cinema comeback, as the world trades theatres for the threads of smaller, smartphone screens. Dialled in to a Chandor reunion, Alessandro Nivola one-ups Paul Giamatti's mechanized Rhino, with a more comic capture (in more ways than one). Yet it's the 'Catch-22' of fellow 'AMVY' star Christopher Abbott's Foreigner comic character that will really hypnotize you like, one...two...three. Three, two, one, this Sony Spider-Man Universe may be done with this sinister sixth, but we're still hurting, hunting and craving for more. Let's not make this the last hunt. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Venom: The Last Dance', 'Morbius', 'Madame Web'.

TV REVIEW: ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING - Season 4

4/5

Murder, They Cast.

10 Episodes. Starring: Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez, Michael Cyril Creighton, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Jackie Hoffman, Jane Lynch, Richard Kind, Kumail Nanjiani, Molly Shannon, Melissa McCarthy, Eugene Levy, Zach Galifianakis, Eva Longoria & Meryl Streep. Created By: Steve Martin & John Hoffman. On: Hulu & Disney +.

First things first, congratulations to Selena Gomez on her engagement to Benny Blanco ("from her two weird uncles"). Now, if you thought that was late to the party, then wait until you read my review of Season 4 of 'Only Murders In The Building' on Hulu and Disney Plus. Only in Hollywood. Once upon a time, 'OMITB' was a murder mystery worthy of Agatha Christie. The Steve Martin and John Hoffman (kudos to Jackie Hoffman's role in all of this) creation about a trio of podcasters solving murders in a Manhattan apartment block has now gone forth to a fantastic fourth season. Hitting Tinseltown, and we're sure an Emmy win like its fellow Hulu, year-by-year, best show on TV, 'The Bear'. You only have to witness the chemistry combusting monologue between the murderous big-three of Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez kill it at this year's awards show to see just how much this three move in perfect podcast sync. All fond, nothing forced (as per award syndicates), no trio has ever been as terrific as this.

Murder was the cast, and we are 'Only' fans. 'Only Murders' has done it all. The whodunnit has not only given the legendary double-act of Steve (Martin) Short another note to their great American filmographies. And boy oh boy, when Martin Short taps Steve Martin on the shoulder in the finale, and it sounds like the start of the theme tune. OM has also become the thing that pop megastar and Swiftie bestie, newly minted billionaire, bloody-good Selena Gomez is most famous for. And she's just done the Netflix Oscar favourite 'Emilia Pérez', where she might share an award, like she should double-up doing so here. Season 3 on Broadway even made an absolute a##hat out of Paul Rudd. Complete with a classic camera captured  episode, like their one for the hearing impaired. No show is more New York than 'The Building' and let's face it, more shows have been shot in NYC than...well, I digress. That would be short of me, Martin is the real man for the constant cracks like a chiropractor. But now 'Only Murders In The Building' is back, it makes an adjustment to 'La La Land', where the show that even made Meryl Streep even more famous truly meets a city of stars. 

Up from the West Side, what more could you expect when Martin, Short and Gomez are perfectly played by "Mr Schitt's' Eugene Levy, Zach Galifianakis between more than two ferns and anything but desperate, housewife favourite Eva Longoria. The interplay between actor and muse is inspired, across the board. As are all the other A-list cameos invited to the party...but we won't show you the envelope, like a magnificent Melissa McCarthy. There are plenty of other big names here who are already true-crime podcast die-hard veterans, giving life to the show that must go on for a fifth and hopefully not final season. The marvellous Michael Cyril Creighton may as well be a fourth member this fourth season, and we're glad 'The Holdover' of Oscar winner Da'Vine Joy Randolph is back on the beat. Ditto for the 'Glee' of Jane Lynch on the double, the catalyst of this season. One joined by the likes of an eye-patched Richard Kind (fresh off his 'Everybody's in LA' compare), a Christmas Carey-on in Kumail Nanjiani and Molly Shannon making these New York times as live as Saturday Night. From the iconic theme tune, to the animated credits that feel like something hot off the press of The New Yorker, dial P for podcast and murder most fun. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

More Murdering: 'Poker Face', 'The Bear', 'Glass Onion: A 'Knives Out' Mystery.

TV REVIEW: THE MADNESS - Miniseries

3.5/5

Mad World 

8 Episodes. Starring: Colman Domingo, Marsha Stephanie Blake, John Ortiz, Tamsin Topolski, Thaddeus J. Mixson & Gabrielle Graham. Created By: Stephen Belber. On: Netflix.

'The Madness' of Colman Domingo sees him in the moment of his career. The Academy Award nominated American actor, playwright and director is a star of stage and screen like Netflix's 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom'. "A-one, a-two, a-you know what to do!" Check 'The Butler' and 'Selma' star's filmography on IMDB. 'If Beale Street Could Talk' and his wonderful reaction to his on-screen daughter telling him he was going to be a grandfather. His "it doesn't love us back" speech about America in the 'Candyman' horror. His classic character redemption arc in 'The Color Purple'. Not to mention so much more for the two-time Tony Award winner, who also scooped up an Emmy for his work on HBO's hottest show 'Euphoria'. But now, returning to the small screen, this might just be his best year. Following last year's 'Rustin' Oscar nomination, he may just get another one (and even the award) for his terrific turn in 'Sing Sing' (and let's not forget indie flick of the year, 'Drive-Away Dolls'). Even Emmy consideration for 'The Fugitive' like new series on Netflix could chase him.

Like his character in another thriller on the box (the 'Fear The Walking Dead' spin-off) tells it. "The only way to survive in a mad world is to embrace the madness." The streaming service on a hot-streak (see Jamie Foxx's truly special stand-up 'What Had Happened Was...', released this week, and another Washington family August Wilson adaptation for 'The Piano Lesson'), always knows how to give us middling, but compelling miniseries' ("ANNIE, I'M A HAWK!"). Most recently, the string puppet pulling of the 'Eric; mystery, starring another Academy actor in Benedict Cumberbatch, set in 1980s New York. This Stephen Belber (the Broadway and movie adaptation of a 'Match' with Patrick Stewart, made so) show run creation takes a bite out of the modern day Big Apple. Especially when it comes to booking a ticket on a Greyhound bus. Domingo, in awe of his face on a Times Square screen and rocking the New York City tee that John Lennon made famous with a Yankee blue cap, truly finds home when he heads to The Roots of Philly with that band's soundtrack on deck.

Turning up his coat collar, Colman has captured all sorts of characters. Even voicing Bruce Wayne on some brilliant Batman podcasts and the Marvel of the villainous Green Goblin of Norman Osborn on next year's 'Your Friendly Neighbourhood Spider-Man' animation. But here he lends his decadent delivery to a CNN anchor, Muncie Daniels, which you could really seem him as, turtleneck and all. However, when this button-pushing media pundit, not afraid to court controversy is framed for the Pocono Mountains murder and chop suey of a white supremacist, that's when 'The Madness' really begins. Especially when the sins of an infamous father our visited on the son. And it's all generational in relation too. Shooting in the sky, Colman's compelling character keeps you riveted and with this eight episode wonder of a series that fades at the finish after so many terrific twists and turns. Please don't spoil this, like the reveal of plenty of household name Hollywood stars and character actors that show up to make this madness even crazier. This series about a murder in the woods is anything but limited. Leaving all other's as green with envy as the terrific title sequence.

We can call on the principle class, mind you, in a conspiracy thriller series with shades of everything from 'True Detective' to Denzel Washington's 'The Manchurian Candidate'. And it's full of strong black leads, like Colman picking up another brilliant book (Ralph Ellison's different to H.G. Wells' 'The Invisible Man'), like his 'Candyman' character did in between laundry loads, so we take notice and read all about it. Amazing action and political punch is offset by grounded family drama with estranged wife Marsha Stephanie Blake (Netflix's landmark 'When They See Us'), and kids Gabrielle Graham (the streaming service's ('21 Thunder' and 'In The Shadow Of The Moon') and newcomer Thaddeus J. Mixson. All outstanding. Much like another star of the future, looking for redemption, Tamsin Topolski. Yet for all the aforementioned big names and those trying to make theirs, it's classic character actor John Ortiz ('Carlito's Way', 'Miami Vice', and 'American Fiction' amongst many, many more) that almost steals the show from Colman's command. Playing a truly beat cop who wants to serve justice in a world that's forgotten how to spell that out. Just like Colman's character. After poking around in the Poconos, trying to clear his name, Domingo makes his even more definitive. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Rustin', 'Sing Sing', 'The Fugitive'.

STAND-UP REVIEW: JAMIE FOXX - WHAT HAD HAPPENED WAS...

4/5

Straight From The Foxxhole

68 Mins. Starring: Jamie Foxx, Anelise Estelle Foxx & Corinne Foxx. Director: Hamish Hamilton. On: Netflix.

"If I can stay funny, I can stay alive." A beautiful belief that kept Eric Bishop going when all seemed lost. Earlier last year, it was reported that Oscar winning actor, Grammy winning singer/songwriter, and soon to be Emmy winning comedian, triple-threat Jamie Foxx was fighting for his life. And we had no idea what to think, never mind do, as rumours leaked like baby oil sales (just order it online and never, NEVER in bulk. And NO, not for that). Was it Diddy?! Nope! That's debunked! Is this Jamie, a copy?! C'mon! Please! Just because he was in a Netflix movie last year called 'They Cloned Tyrone'. The Internet is a wild place and was killing the gregarious talent who likes to do that with kindness. Jamie Foxx had a "mysterious illness" as Katt Williams, and a hilarious impression, alongside the likes of Dave Chappelle, Denzel Washington, Jay-Z, 'Winner' and 'Live In The Sky' collaborator T.I., of course, Mike Tyson, and Donald Trump, puts it. But all is revealed on the world's most successful streaming service for 'What Had Happened Was...'.

Jamie's fourth stand-up special (after his big-three of 'Straight From The Foxxhole', 'I Might Need Security' (where he originally gives it to Diddy (take that, take that)) and 'Unleashed: Lost, Stolen and Leaked!') and his first with Netflix (Is A Joke), is bold, brave and beautiful. It's classic Foxx stand-up, from the stage, to singing behind the piano like Luther Vandross (and "a little Anita"). Putting the compelling storyteller, with smarts, heart and of course, humour, next to the Netflix luminary likes of Chappelle, Bill Burr, Ali Wong and John Mulaney who detailed his own, different type of recovery on the brilliant 'Baby J'. 'What Had Happened Was...' stands next to that as a stand-up with so more, as it soars closer to God. ATL stand up! As Jamie keeps Georgia on his mind (like when he played 'Ray', making it do what it do, baby), performing this set in Atlanta's Alliance Theatre. Just 400 yards from the Piedmont Hospital and the "cool white doctor in a Lakers jersey" that saved his life. Much like Jamie Foxx did another man's life. Now Google THAT, Internet, if you want to see what had happened there.

Back in action (like his long-awaited 'All-Star Weekend' to come) on Netflix, like a Cameron Diaz reunion (after 'Annie's' hard-knock life), the 'Project Power' superhero, 'Day Shift' vampire hunter and 'Dad Stop Embarrassing Me' sitcom star (with a beautiful book, 'Act Like You Got Some Sense: And Other Things My Daughters Taught Me') brings his beloved to the stage. Introduced by his actress daughter Corinne, who he got to walk down the aisle on her wedding day recently. And serenaded by the defibrillating guitar of his youngest, Anelise Estelle in the purest moment of this raw, honest, and heartbreaking and healing return to the light. Giving it up to the glory of God and the family that stood by him, like the doctors and the nurses at his bedside, Eric Bishop was truly humbled by what almost took his life, but instead gave him a new one. He didn't remember 20 days, but now, he's cherishing every one. From refusing help like Wesley Snipes in 'New Jack City', the true story lies with a man who said "I'm motherf#####g Jamie Foxx", until an aid called Holly humbled the Hollywood star. All until he touched a new one.

Yet this is a celebration of one of the world's biggest talents across all sorts of entertainment, and he deserves his moment to bask. Best night of his life. Walking back out onto stage with open arms and tears embracing his cheeks. Dancing to rap records after people said he was paralysed. This Hamish Hamilton directed stand-up truly is a special as you don't know whether you're crying tears of laughter, joy, or pain. But just like asking what's Jamie famous for (acting, singing, or stand-up), it's all three. Just like this is more than music, movies, or comedy. A one-man show worthy of the kind of thing the great John Leguizamo does. It's so good to see the 'Soul' star back, as the 'Unpredictable' mic man, drops 'Django', 'Ali' and 'Any Given Sunday' nods to show you he's an original, like few others. Especially no damn clone. You must be dreaming. Returning from the brink like fellow Marvel hero Jeremy Renner. The child from Terrell, Texas is back! Live in living colour. The Jamie Foxx show just doesn't stop! For real though. Staying alive and staying funny. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Back In Action', 'They Cloned Tyrone', 'Dad Stop Embarrassing Me.'

DOCUMENTARY REVIEW: JUNG KOOK - I AM STILL

4/5

Still J

3 Episodes. Starring: Jung Kook. Director: Park Jun-soo. On: Disney +.

Disney may be known these days as a streaming service that also channels Marvel and Star Wars property, as well as doing its Mickey Mouse self and Pixar proud, but it could also be a BTS channel. On the same day that the new Jude Law 'Skeleton Crew' children's show in a galaxy far, far away debuted, Disney dropped ARMY member, fresh off military duty, Jung Kook's 'I Am Still' three-part docuseries (directed by Park Jun-soo). Just weeks after a 'Party Edition' was shown, here in Japan, as a movie, on the big-screen, in its epic entirety. It all began with the South Korean K-Pop phenomenon's 'Permission To Dance-Live In LA', streaming in the palace of Walt's kingdom. But now, with this still, the 'Monuments To A Star' series, not to mention the 'Are You Sure' travelogue with bandmate brother Jimin, the Bulletproof Boy Scouts, are as a plus to Disney as 'The Simpsons' are. Of course, we're sure.

Released in the same week as the closest K-Pop act to BTS, BLACKPINK, are also doing the solo thing with 'Rosie' by Rosé, 'Still' sits next to 'J-Hope In The Box' and 'Suga: Road To D-Day', as some real BTS (behind the scenes) looks at the supergroups solo albums. Not to mention the same week that 'Are You Sure' guest V, after his 'Layover' returns to the charts in time for a 'White Christmas' with Bing Crosby. Not a month after Jin gave us his 'Happy' EP, back after duty. Still, what Jung is cooking up here goes deeper than the other BTS work we can find on Disney and the Hybe Entertainment, beyond all the big hits. Besides, his last series was really just him eating food. On 'I Am Still', worthy of a movie, and its theatrical release, for the 'Dreamers', the World Cup anthem singer goes from Seoul to the Big Smoke of London and the electric heart and core of entertainment in New York's Times Square. For a concert that rang in as many people as New Year.

Never dropping the ball, Jung Kook becomes a leading solo light. Moving and shaking with them all. Whether it be in '3D' with peers like Jack Harlow. Or legends that inspired him, standing next to Usher for a remix and more behind the steps visuals and testimonials. Just wait until you hear what the 'Confessions' singer has to say about his new protégée, comparing Kook to what Usher Raymond must have meant to the likes of Michael Jackson and James Brown. High, but deserved praise for a mighty man who is sealing the deal like his 'Seven' heaven single with Latto. You can see all these songs tracked for some alive live performances that border all the makings of a monumental star. Yet in quiet and compelling contemplation for such a young man, it's these wise words and the slower, still moments that really resonate. From the militant fanbase, to those who are their own singing and songwriting dreamers. One pure moment of this time capsule documentary before the enlistment moves his hairdresser to tears as he shaves Jeon's head for the army. There won't be a dry eye in the barbershop as you'll be talking all about this. Truly a 'Golden' moment for a man who has hit his own light. One that still shines bright. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Are You Sure', 'J-Hope In The Box', 'Suga: Road To D-Day'.

REVIEW: CLUB ZERO

3/5

The Last Supper

110 Mins. Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Sidse Babett Knudsen, Elsa Zylberstein, Mathieu Demy, Luke Barker, Ksenia Devriendt, Florence Baker, Samuel D. Anderson, Gwen Currant, Andrei Hozoc, Sade McNichols-Thomas, Amir El-Masry, Amanda Lawrence, Sam Hoare, Keeley Forsyth, Lukas Turtur & Camilla Rutherford. Screenplay: Jessica Hausner & Géraldine Bajard. Director: Jessica Hausner. In: Theatres.

First things first, Austrian auteur Jessica Hausner's ('Lovely Rita', 'Little Joe') 'Club Zero' is disturbingly dark, but it's no black comedy. Satirical sure, in how it bites at Western consumerism, but this movie about a college course on intermittent fasting, that needs to slow its roll, comes with a trigger warning that should be heeded at all costs. Especially those who have suffered through eating disorders, directly, or indirectly (speaking to sufferer's family and circle of friends). This movie, or it's central idea that courses through its clinical cinematography, should not garner a cult following. If Netflix's 'To The Bone' with Lily Collins didn't sit well with you, then this one will leave you sick to your stomach as you avert your eyes. With less substance than the hit Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley movie, one particular scene, seemingly done for shock, is truly awful and reminds you of the sickest joke you ever saw on 'Jackass'. A zero-sum.

Sure, this movie has something to say, and for you to work it out all on your own, but it gets too biblical for its own good, or our belief in it. And in this age of 'Deadpool' fourth wall breaks, the final frame is so ambiguous, you'll wonder if this diet drama is actually peddling what it previously promoted as a cautionary tale. Surely not! But we don't want to drink the fasting tea that this idea could be chancing at. Still, we'd like to believe that Hausner's almost classic, like its look, is much more than all this, as it puts a mirror to us above the sink, and makes us think twice before we do everything we can and will to stop hating what stares back at us. Fasting is crucial and even beautiful to some religions (but that's not addressed here, although hinted at in other ways), and environmental and even individual concerns are paramount. Especially in this age of body-shaming, we're both women and men (see megastar Timothée Chalamet's early callbacks in Hollywood) face thick and thin from the peers if they're too big...or too small. Yet Jessica and Géraldine Bajard's story, to its credit, focuses on the dangers of this practice. Especially when other health concerns (like diabetes), and issues we shouldn't be ignorant to, are brought into play.

As controversial as it is cautionary, 'Zero' finally finds a theatrical home here in Japan after competing for the Palme d'Or at the 76th Cannes Film Festival, last year. Newcomers on their first credit, Luke Barker, Ksenia Devriendt, Florence Baker, Samuel D. Anderson, Gwen Currant, Andrei Hozoc and Sade McNichols-Thomas, all come up aces. So much so, you could have sworn you had seen them somewhere before, like old friends from school, as you care for these characters. Especially Baker, Anderson and Devriendt, whose changing characters show us the effects in all their inglorious consequence, no matter the previous pacificism, or resistance. In their vomit lime green polos, cargo pants and high blue socks and pumps, they could be contestants for the next season of 'Squid Game', this fall, their lives are that much at stake. Concerned parents, played with stunted power by Elsa Zylberstein, Mathieu Demy, Sam Hoare, Keeley Forsyth, Lukas Turtur and Camilla Rutherford, deserve an ensemble award. Ditto in kudos to the teachers of Amir El-Masry, Amanda Lawrence and 'Westworld's' Sidse Babett Knudsen in principle, joining the club. 

Yet it's Mia Wasikowska's teacher in this feature that will really have a hold on you like she does on her apt, raptured pupils. Decked out in fashionable Ralph Lauren polos, tucked into fashionable trousers that she's well and truly wearing, the 'Suburban Mayhem', 'In Treatment' and 'The Double' actress looks like the icon that all her star-gazing pupils want to be in their drab uniform and uninformed existence. But the kids are far from alright in the "wonderland" of this Alice, as the 'Crimson Peak', 'Lawless' and 'The Devil All The Time' star offers the young hearts and minds something they should refuse as they fall deeper and deeper into the hunger induced high of an abyss of this terrifying way of thinking. Wasikowska wows because her character's seeming innocence, purely believes in this way of thinking. Even if it is harmful when swallowed. And that's the crux of what makes all of this so controversial. Mia's best role to date, in terms of complexity, may just be her most maligned, in terms of integrity. But this fearless actress has always brushed outside the lines. Even in the mainstream when it comes to falling down, Tim Burton's blockbuster rabbit hole. For individuals and families going through this, there's a meaningful message to be read in-between the lines. Something we should all do, together. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Lovely Rita', 'The Substance', 'To The Bone'.

REVIEW: THE BIKERIDERS

4/5

The Motorcycle Diaries

116 Mins. Starring: Jodie Comer, Austin Butler, Tom Hardy, Michael Shannon, Boyd Holbrook, Emory Cohen, Toby Wallace, Damon Herriman, Beau Knapp, Will Oldham, Mike Faist & Norman Reedus. Screenplay: Jeff Nichols. Director: Jeff Nichols. In: Theatres.

The Godfather of motorcycle movies is one of icons. Based on the book and powerful photography of the same name by Danny Lyon (here played with a journalist's curious passion by 'Challengers' and 'West Side Story' star Mike Faist), 'The Bikeriders', from great director of our time, Jeff Nichols ('Loving', 'Mud', 'Take Shelter', 'Midnight Special'), is an easy rider's dream. 'Lawless' legendary 'Venom: The Last Dance' star Tom Hardy continues a comprehensive calendar by playing the leader of a motorcycle gang, who takes inspiration from the same Warhol artwork Marlon Brando movie that gave the big band Black Rebel Motorcycle Club their name. Taking television set cues on the couch from 'The Wild One' that Hardy has in his own career (the great of our generation mumbling his way through 'Lawless', 'Warrior', 'The Drop', 'The Revenant' and of course, 'Capone'). Meanwhile, fresh-off of his 'Elvis' Academy residency, not to mention his bald identity in 'Dune: Part Two', 'Once Upon A Time In...Hollywood' star Austin Butler (on his own big year) goes the Al Pacino route of putting up 'Scarecrow' after he played Sonny.

Butler, serving up looks, fewer words than early Hardy, and an accented performance without the Presley one, is brilliant. Subtly giving us one of the best performances and pictures that, if it was back in the studded seventies jackets day, would be as iconic as Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper (nice nod). The Hardy boy gives us one of his best, too, in this Nichols narrative that also features big names behind biker beards and hair that could use its own chopper. There's a real reunion between Michael Shannon and Jeff Nichols after the director's debut 'Take Shelter' and alien affair of the mesmerizing 'Midnight Special' (and other appearances in all the director's work). 'Logan', 'The Predator' and 'Indiana Jones and the Dial Of Destiny' favourite Boyd Holdbrook before he reunites, like a Johnny Cash characterization, with James Mangold for the Chalamet Dylan movie 'A Complete Unknown'. An almost unrecognizable Cockroach that is Emory Cohen ('Brooklyn', 'The Place Beyond The Pines'). And an even more unrecognizable 'Walking Dead' star Norman Reedus, riding in from California to saddle up with these vandals of Chicago with chapters in Milwaukee like the Bulls and Bucks.

Nuanced narration however comes from the real star of this show, 'Killing Eve' star Jodie Comer, who kills it with her midwestern American accent. 'The Last Duel' and 'Free Guy' star from the Beatles' town of Liverpool again chameleon camouflages her strong scouse accent, like her villainous character in the BBC's brilliant 'Eve' does. This movie is all about her, and soon, so will Hollywood. After this indie darling, by the time Comer comes to Danny Boyle and Cillian Murphy's '28 Years Later' sequel, she'll be one of the biggest big screen stars in the world like she is on the small screen, thanks to ones for her, like this. Standing out in a crowd of leather and oil, featuring turnout performances from all the steel horses. Damon Herriman (the man who played Charles Manson twice, in 'Once Upon A Time' and Netflix and David Fincher's 'Mindhunter') and 'Southpaw' Beau Knapp giving Fonzie a run for his Brylcreem money. Not to mention a piss and vinegar eager Toby Wallace as The Kid and singer/songwriter/actor Will Oldham as one hell of an unlucky bartender, after his amazing speech in the kitchen of 'A Ghost Story'.

Turn in your colours to independent cinemas from Liverpool's FACT to Kino, here in Japan, and you will see a picture as iconic as the photography that inspired it in principle. Standing over a Budweiser neon bar's pool table, taking muscled up all-American cues, this one will break you. Sure, it may not pocket any Oscars, but it remains in the corner, holding you like 'The Iron Claw', but similar to a lover. This photo book crime drama written by Nichols and featuring a fictional version of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club (they want no trouble) is a 50th Telluride Film Festival favourite. Delayed from last December to Summer, after the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, and finally here this fall in the Far East. All the way down to the perfect poster, this focussed feature could be thrown back to the cranked up past it was engine gunned from. Fists or knives, inside the Lyon's den, this one rides. A crucial chapter of culture and American history. A rallying cry to lost men and all the cause and effect that the Vietnam War left in its wake of veterans strung out on heroin and stories of anti-heroes. Hotheads and wheels, gassed up, 'The Bikeriders' takes you to parts unknown, and seldom revved up and heard these days. And some that may just hit home a little harder for the hearts of men. Burning rubber...and each other, yet still coming together. Let it ride like a rolling stone. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Easy Rider', 'Lawless', 'Mud'.

DOCUMENTARY REVIEW: BEATLES '64

4/5

Come Together, America 

106 Mins. Starring: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison & Ringo Starr: Director: David Tedeschi. Produced By: Martin Scorsese & Margaret Bodde. On: Disney +.

JFK's immortal words in black and white begin this Beatles documentary after the iconic, green Apple Corps logo. All as legendary director Martin Scorsese (producing alongside Margaret Bodde), and the direction of David Tedeschi, step off the plane and into the lane of journeying through found footage to make movie like documentaries on the Fab Four. 'Beatles '64' finds Scorsese joining the likes of Peter Jackson ('Get Back') and Ron Howard ('Eight Days A Week-The Touring Year'), although this is Tedeschi's terrific testament. Even though it's a joy to see Marty joking around with Ringo Starr who describes arriving at New York's JFK perfectly, like an octopus. In the garden of the Big Apple, ''64' focusses on the time Beatlemania came to America. Right after President Kennedy was shot and the United States needed to find that sense of hope again, as everybody was screaming. The Beatles brought that back. Although in a very sobering and sad moment when it sets in, John Lennon was worried about the random violence there, that could happen at any moment.

Disney Plus stream their latest Beatle addition to the archive, this week, after the recently unearthed 'Let It Be' documentary this summer gone. Catching John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr's dynamite debut on The Ed Sullivan Show, this is a cultural moment to see just how epic entertainment can get when it moves people to dance, faint, and lose their minds as fans try to find their way through more hotel rooms than Booking.com. Yeah! Just when Macca's poppa wanted him and John to say, "she loves you, yes, yes, yes", instead of all that "American slang" making for one of the most lovely little titbits in this doc of personal stories and insights from not only fans around the world, but Paul and Ringo, too. Telling us exactly how it was and is, and revealing what they'd say to dear John and George if they were still here now. I know this much is true, this is as moving and as profound as their first track in decades, 'Now and Then' released last year because of a found Lennon vocal.

Three-weeks of history in a sixties February was made for a real era. This cultural document featuring archival footage captures the boys at their playful and carefree best, all whilst their wonderful work about love and wanting to hold your hand was crucified as devil's music by the press, priest and purveyors of the original cancel culture. Where all you had was newsprint, not 280 characters of social media to play with. And the hair, forget about it. It was so ungodly (even though the locks of Jesus (who The Beatles claimed to be bigger than, were longer), even though one fan still has wig memorabilia from back in the day, along with the side of his seat from the original Dodgers home of Queens' Shea Stadium. He didn't wear it then, and it's still in its plastic packaging, even though he, and me, could probably use it now. There are so many great tales here from American fans who describe The Beatles coming to America in the wake of John F. Kennedy's assassination as, like, "a light coming on." You'll be moved to tears, too.

One fan and bandsman was so moved by it all he had to take a trip to Liverpool, to see where all of this came from, like a Cavern Club. He was denied entry when he hit the shores, and had to remain aboard a ferry that seemed like it would never cross the Mersey. He kicked up so much of a fuss that his story was put on the front page of the Liverpool Echo as he escaped to fulfil his Fab Four fate...and just wait until this 1964 documentary shows where all that led to. Scorsese and Tedeschi first bonded after David edited Martin's George Harrison documentary 'Living In The Material World', forming a friendship with George's wife Olivia Harrison. She produces this alongside Paul, Ringo, Marty, Margaret, Jonathan Clyde, Mikaela Beardsley and Sean Ono Lennon. Based off of Albert and David Maysles' original documentary 'What's Happening! The Beatles In The U.S.A.', and featuring terrific testimonials from the miracle Motown likes of Smokey Robinson and Ron Isley, just you wait until you hear the soundtrack, too. Not to be confused with the 'Beatles '65' album, this documentary is its own look at yesterday, that really has a hold on you. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Beatles: Get Back', 'The Beatles: Let It Be', 'George Harrison: Living In The Material World'.

REVIEW: INSIDE OUT 2

4/5

Upside Down

96 Mins. Starring: Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke, Kensington Tallman, Liza Lapira, Tony Hale, Lewis Black, Phyllis Smith, Ayo Edebiri, Lilimar, Grace Lu, Sumayyah Nuriddin-Green, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Diane Lane, Kyle MacLachlan & Paul Walter Hauser. Screenplay: Meg LeFauve & Dave Holstein. Director: Kelsey Mann. On: Disney +.

Marvel's 'Deadpool and Wolverine', streaming just a few weeks ago on Disney Plus, may be one of the biggest blockbusters of the year, and one of the most successful sequels of all-time, but Pixar's franchise pick, 'Inside Out 2' has the best joke. One that even the merc with the mouth couldn't talk his way out of. That's how much you'll fall for the sar-casm in this super sequel and summer sensation that is now streaming on Disney Plus too, just in time for Christmas. Amy Poehler, Liza Lapira, Tony Hale, Lewis Black and Phyllis Smith are back as Riley's (Kensington Tallman) go-to emotions of joy, disgust, fear, anger and sadness. It's crazy, it has been almost a decade since the outstanding original 'Inside Out' movie and sensational short 'Riley's First Date?' Since then, these epic emotions have turned Disney Pixar upside down, as the lamplight has been shone on life and death (the stirring 'Soul'), not to mention puberty (the terrific 'Turning Red') and all the other 'Elemental' emotions we have inside of us. Ones we don't dare show to the outside world without some conversation over the console as our buttons are pushed.

So, it's been ten years and the ice hockey mad Riley has been going through some changes of her own, even if this franchise ages like 'The Simpsons' (Maggie is STILL in diapers after thirtysomething seasons?). So the first five emotions have some company coming off the bench. 'Stranger Things' are happening when anxiety makes a home like it does in all of this in this day and age. Stealing the show in voicing what looks like a McDonald's mascot left in the fryer (hey, that's what anxiety does to us), Maya Hawke is hallmark as the new front and centre with feeling emotion. After her amazing album ('Chaos Angel') came out just a month before, this was definitely her summer, before the new Hawkins favourite heads back to the Upside Down one more time, next year. But that's not all the Joy luck club have to bear with. Emmy sensation Ayo Edebiri will make you green with Envy at how much talent she has in her recipe book (let her cook). Whilst the great Paul Walter Hauser is just one big Embarrassment. It's Adèle Exarchopoulos ('Blue Is The Warmest Colour'), however, as the French accented Ennui who gets all the best lines...if only she could be nail-file bothered to deliver them.

Elsewhere, we have even more emotion for the life of Riley. She looks up to popular hockey player Lilimar, but that alienates her besties (Grace Lu, Sumayyah and Nuriddin-Green). Never mind her parents as the legendary Diane Lane and Kyle MacLachlan make for more iconic (like the San Fran postcards) post-credit dinner table conversations with all that's not being said, going on inside their heads. Scripted by the first film and 'The Good Dinosaur's' Meg LeFauve and Dave Holstein, 'Inside Out 2' marks the feature-length directorial debut of Kelsey Mann after he spiked the punch of the 'Monster's University' short 'Party Central'. Earning his keep as a Cartoon Network storyboard artist before moving 'Onward' with Pixar as a story supervisor. So, this sequel truly is a coming of age tale. One that validates all our emotions and devotions (wait until you see Mount Crushmore), not to mention our safe locked away deepest, darkest secrets and the cute cartoons of our childhood nostalgia, who may be the real new additions that shine like a Disney Cinderella castle firework coming up the falls. And with over a billion served, take that 'Deadpool 3', clawing at Wolverine's biggest fan, 'Inside Out 2' is in fact the highest-grossing film of 2024. Not to mention the all-time highest in animation (and eight wonder in all movies). You just can't get it out of your head. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Inside Out', 'Turning Red', 'Elemental'. 

REVIEW: THE PIANO LESSON

4/5

Plays In The Key Of Life

125 Mins. Starring: Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, Ray Fisher, Michael Potts, Erykah Badu, Skylar Aleece Smith, Danielle Deadwyler & Corey Hawkins. Screenplay: Virgil Williams & Malcolm Washington. Director: Malcolm Washington. On: Netflix.

Many heirlooms are passed down between family members, generation to generation. On the branches of the Washington family tree, nepotism is not one of them. Descendants of George Washington, Denzel and Pauletta's kids make their own luck. August Wilson was a prolific playwright. His ten plays and 'Pittsburgh Cycle' made real Tony actors out of the likes of Denzel Washington, Sam Jackson and an Oscar winning Viola Davis. Think of August as Tennessee Williams meets James Baldwin. Giving us the poetry of life's rich and most extraordinary moments, for better or worse, altar to hearse. After Wilson's far too soon passing in 2005, Washington was tasked with producing his plays and bringing them to movie theatres. Now, the Academy Award-winning actor ('Training Day', 'Glory'), who has a few films left in him before retirement (you might have heard of the one out now, plus the next 'Black Panther' and a couple more great 'Equalizers') is dedicating the rest of his life to August and everything after.

He already built 'Fences', acting and directing, like 'Antwone Fisher', one of the best pictures of his career (and this is a man who has done everything from 'Philadelphia' to 'The Tragedy Of Macbeth'), and then he produced 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom' for Netflix, also starring Viola Davis, an incredible Colman Domingo and the Oscar nominated, late, great Chadwick Boseman. Now, Denzel, alongside friend Todd Black, produces 'The Piano Lesson' for the streaming service, which you should all recite your song sheets for. But that's where it ends for the G.O.A.T. You can see from his humility at the Toronto International Film Festival, or how he reacts to his introduction on the Netflix behind the scenes special 'The Piano Lesson: Legacy and a Vision', that this is not about him, but his kin and the incredible artists they have raised. The 'Malcolm X' stars son Malcolm Washington (producer of 'North Hollywood') makes his directorial debut (also produced by sister Katia Washington in this family affair), and one that confirms his as one of the best new and rising talents behind the camera. Cutting into this story concerning a piano decorated with designs carved by an enslaved ancestor. 

The directing child of Spike Lee and Terrence Malick, with this psalm in the tree of life, is a wonder. Co-writing this film with a script from the vivid Virgil Williams ('24', 'ER' and a Best Adapted Screenplay nomination for Dee Rees and 'Netflix's' magnificent 'Mudbound'), adapted of course from August's wonderful work (Wilson's play has already been made into a 1995 T.V. movie starring Charles S. Dutton, Alfre Woodard and Courtney B. Vance). From Broadway to a blockbuster Oscar, Washington reflects Wilson in a haunting heirloom as grand as the piano itself. Getting behind the notes and past the fringes of a stage setting, like fenced in other works on house arrest with some breaktime in the yard. Malcolm also knows how to bring the hereditary scares to this ghost of families past story. Although it's not done with hack Hollywood horror tropes. It's real. It's spiritual. Like the song they sing (or the ones the great Erykah Badu does here) knocking on wood, with a cross to bear. It's biblical. A lesson we could all do with learning in the aftermath of this great depression.

Read all about the GQ feature to get even more bonded with this family story. As Malcolm directs his own brother, John David Washington. Star of Spike Lee's incendiary 'BlacKkKlansman' (and also a brief role in 'X'), Christopher Nolan's terrific, but COVID quarantined 'Tenet', Netflix's 'Malcolm & Marie' in black and white with Zendaya, and most recently, one of the most original science-fiction future fables in 'The Creator'. Now, stepping out of his father's shadow, all whilst having epic echoes of his acting eternity and fraternity, not to mention his 'Ballers' status as the football star that almost made the NFL, John David could go toe-to-toe with his pop's scene-stealing turn in 'Gladiator II' for the acting Academy Award ace. His character's passion so palpable it gets under everybody in this movie's skin. All as he wants more in the game than just selling watermelons. The thousand yards of land in his stare out the window of his truck, looking all the way back to the past, showing just how better future focussed he is, and how worse off that could make him with those who are there through thick and thin.

Give him the glory. Unless his co-star Samuel L. Jackson (who dad has known since 1981's 'A Soldier's Play'), spinning yarn like 'The Hateful Eight', has anything to say about that. Denying him like he does the lifting of the titular piano. John David and Samuel L have been doing this for years on stage. But they even have their work cut for them when it comes to a scene owning Danielle Deadwyler ('For Colored Girls', 'A Cross To Bear'), or star of the future, Skylar Aleece Smith. Deadwyler with the power of her ancestors behind her, with a hand on her shoulder, won't give up the ghost. Then there is an unrecognizable Cyborg, in Ray Fisher's (an off-off Broadway veteran of the likes of 'To Kill A Mockingbird' and 'King Lear') 'Of Mice and Men' like turn with dignity and respect. And Corey Hawkins ('The Color Purple', 'The Tragedy Of Macbeth' and Will Smith's 'Six Degrees Of Separation' role on stage) going from Dr. Dre ('Straight Outta Compton') to the power of a preacher with a HELL YEAH! Yet, it's Netflix 'Rustin' actor Michael Potts, who brings this all together, like he does with Wilson's other work, or Glynn Turman does for 'Ma Rainey'. Everyone involved honours the work like ancestry does every member of the family. May the cycle continue to turn as this world and our lives do so too. Ashes to ashes. From the roots, to the bloom TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom', 'Fences', 'The Piano Lesson (1995)'.

REVIEW: BACK TO BLACK

3.5/5 

Always In Love With Amy

122 Mins. Starring: Marisa Abela, Jack O'Connell, Eddie Marsan & Lesley Manville. Screenplay: Matt Greenhalgh. Director: Sam Taylor-Johnson. In: Theatres.

Yes, yes, yes. Going 'Back To Black', one of the better biopics of recent memory, does justice to 'Amy, Amy, Amy'. The 'Rehab' ("no, no, no") sensational singer/songwriter we lost an unlucky and unbelievable thirteen years ago. To be 'Frank', 2023 Screen International 'Star Of Tomorrow' Marisa Abela (BBC Two and HBO's Industry' and Sky One's 'COBRA'), really is one and the amazing Amy in this movie that sits next to 'Judy' and the Aretha Franklin biopic with real 'Respect'. All before anything but 'A Complete Unknown', Timothée Chalamet, goes electric and eclectic for his forthcoming Dylan film. The Royal Academy Of Dramatic Art alumni ('She Is Love') may not be a household name yet, but the Teen Talk 'Barbie' will be. Neither was Amy. Until the cover of her dynamic debut 'Frank' was plastered all over the sides of red London double-decker buses, much to the pride of her passing cabbie driving father. Lovingly played by the becoming legendary character actor Eddie Marsan. The bridge between the likes of Timothy Spall and Stephen Graham.

Sharing a voice, heritage and beautiful beehive with Amy, Abela is more than able to play the throwback talent of Winehouse, whose style aged like a fine wine in the cellars of real smoky soul from bars and concert halls of the past. Marisa manages to pay homage and respect to her muse, all whilst showing her own style and grace. This is no impersonation. It's impressive impressionism in this artful take on a young star, faded too soon, who knew the real writers and artists lay in the hard-worn margins and canvases of the past. Expect Marisa Abela to be a name you see in big budget blockbusters of the future like Cailee Spaeny ('Alien: Romulus', 'Civil War') after Sofia Coppola's 'Priscilla'. Although Abela won't sell out for the industry money, just like Amy who only wanted to sing for those who could forget their troubles for a few minutes. Her impact on the world was just that profound, as 'Back To Black' and the classics like the title-track, 'Rehab', 'Love Is A Losing Game', 'Tears Dry On Their Own' (all performed with power here) and 'You Know I'm No Good' (and that classic Ghostface remix that killed it), not to mention Mark Ronson's 'Valerie', made sure this modern's icon's legend never would. Or will for that matter.

Hounded by the same paparazzi that drove Princess Diana to an early grave, Amy managed to overcome it all on her own. Drugs and drink. Depression, divorce and death. All before a tragic relapse after some truly terrible life turns took her young life after a long period of sobriety. The papers would print it different, but Winehouse was winning after playing the whole 'Love Is A Losing Game' hand that life cruelly deals to some of us. The kind of fickle fate those enamoured in bliss could never quite understand, and we would never wish it on. Burning from misery. Yearning for family. Above her heart, Amy had Blake's name inked in her skin and stitched into a pocket. And credit this controversial and complicated movie about an even more conflicted love story for not painting Winehouse's love like a villain for Hollywood storytelling. Amy wouldn't have wanted that. And great Brit actor Jack O'Connell ('Starred Up', 'Unbroken') gives us one of his most powerful performances since he took Tennessee Williams' 'Cat On A Hot Tin Roof' to the West End with Sienna Miller. After his charming jukebox and pool pub introduction, you'll go through every level of emotion with him. And that's when you'll begin to realize all about what Amy went through.

Some say this biopic from the John Lennon 'Nowhere Boy' before he was famous, biopic director Sam Taylor-Johnson ('Fifty Shades Of Grey') is too safely sanitized. Yet they say that about all biopics of this brutal and beautiful nature, just like the wonderful 'Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody'. But this film only ever holds back out of respect, like most biographs of its type, something the newspapers could learn from. But right now they're taking it to Sam for her love with Aaron Taylor-Johnson. There are a lot of complications in this life, that we can't fully understand unless we're the people involved, but serious scriptwriter Matt Greenhalgh ('Control', 'Film Stars Don't Die In Liverpool') tries to make sense of a stirring and sometimes sensationalized life story. Amy was a queen like Abela can become, and it takes one to know one like a sister act. As 'The Crown's' Princess Margaret, Lesley Manville steals the show, like she did in channelling fellow greats Vanessa Kirby and Helena Bonham Carter for the hit Netflix Royal Family show for all you couch potatoes. As beautiful as scoring Nick Cave's 'Song For Amy', this outstanding ode ends on the high of a Grammy win, where the pure and innocent disbelief in Amy's eyes are captured perfectly. A moment, as she falls into her band member's embrace, that will live forever.  Just like those songs that will always help us forget all our troubles. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'A Complete Unknown', 'Judy', 'Priscilla'.

REVIEW: GLADIATOR II

4/5

Thumbs Up

148 Mins. Starring: Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Lior Raz, Alexander Karim, Yuval Gonen, Peter Mensah, Tim McInnerny, Matt Lucas, Derek Jacobi, Connie Nielsen & Denzel Washington. Screenplay: David Scarpa. Director: Ridley Scott. In: Theatres.

Gladiators ready! When it comes to these men in the arena, here's a sequel that's really worthy of the Roman numerals. One 24 years in the making...and well...worth...the wait. The new millennium 'Gladiator' epic, starring Academy Award winners Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix, remains a classic. Its legendary legacy you can see everywhere. Because what we do in life is even quoted on the arms of LeBron James like Biblical scripture. But which soldier of Rome will be The King in this Colosseum? One that's flooded with sharks and the jaws of monkey business. 'Gladiator II' really is a worthy successor to the Oscar gold leaf that was crowned before it. Of course, you're entertained. Achieving strokes of art from the canvas of its outstanding oil paint title sequence (if this was back in the day, it would be heralded like the 'Catch Me If You Can' iconic titles), to the grass of the last, lasting moment that will stay with you like dust brushed across your fingers and into the palms of your hands.

86-years-young, Ridley Scott is back in the director's chair like he is rarely for the sequels to his science fiction signatures ('Alien', 'Blade Runner'), despite their besting recent efforts. Although, the ageless auteur likes to go back in time to the historical epics ('The Last Duel') after reuniting with the thumb of Joaquin Phoenix for their brilliant 'Napoleon' biography last fall. Enlisting the screenwriting of that film in the form of David Scarpa ('All The Money In The World') and his wonderful way of words, speeches still stir that could reach the father of a murdered son, even if Crowe's character and Phoenix's remain in the ashes and archival footage. There's still vengeance to be had, mind you, and stepping in to battle for Spencer Treat Clarke's ('Unbreakable', 'Glass', 'Much Ado About Nothing') child acting is the next acting gladiatorial great Paul Mescal. 

Normal people like Mescal have already moved and burnt us with movies like 'After Sun' (the same for 'The Lost Daughter' and 'All Of Us Strangers'), and he's about to show all the lonely people that all you need is love once more as the one and only Paul McCartney in a forthcoming Beatles biopic set to rival Timothée Chalamet's Dylan ('A Complete Unknown') and Jeremy Allen White's Springsteen ('Deliver Me From Nowhere'). But here one of 'God's Creatures' (who has already channelled Brando like Billy Zane (uncanny) and a Laurence Olivier Award for playing Stanley Kowalski in Tennessee Williams' 'A Streetcar Named Desire'), is brutal, beautiful, boundless and brilliant. Looking like one of the Roman coins placed on the side of his bath after victory. To reveal more about his character would be saying far too much like the second trailer, if you haven't seen that, just you wait, as Scott paints free and flowing characters of complex. Even bringing 'Wonder Woman' Connie Nielson back (like the legendary Derek Jacobi) a quarter of the century later to reveal even more depth.

Mescal might be one of the most popular (all women want him, all men want hi...ah hem, to be like him) actors of the moment this side of 'The Mandalorian', but Pedro Pascal's performance behind Scarpa's strong script and Ridley's riddling direction really hits the bullseye for these archers outside the arena. Remember, the great gladiatorial battles happen outside the Colosseum too. Pascal is perfect and the pastel of even more character confliction and moral grey areas as the two Roman statuesque looking actors Mescal and Pescal duke it out. Straight out of a Shakespearean tragedy as the Phoenix like brothers of 'Stranger Things', 'A Quiet Place: Day One' star and forthcoming 'Fantastic Four' Human Torch Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger (and his own Marcel like monkey friend) have their own campy, sibling rivalry duel in the safety of the seating area around the arena. There's strong support all around. Lior Raz putting everyone through their paces. The trademark gravitas of Peter Mensah. 'Notting Hill's' Tim McInnerny being taken for everything he's worth and Matt Lucas bringing the 'Shooting Stars' drum-rolls back as the master of ceremonies. 

Yet even the hawkeye of Yuval Gonen's wonderful wife has the threat of the show stole by former gladiator, and now opium prescribing doctor Alexander Karim. Not to mention the compelling chemistry he has with Mescal. Will they, won't they? They don't. But these friends getting along famously say something in the eyes. A kiss of death from Denzel Washington (reuniting with Ridley after 'American Gangster' with Russell) was cut from this movie, but the legendary actor actually is the one to steal the show here. Instrumental in pulling all the strings like The Godfather in one of the G.O.AT.'s best performances yet. And he's far from done, with Ryan Coogler writing a role in 'Black Panther 3' for the man who was rumoured to be T'Challa back in the day. Say what you want about the accent (did you forget his Shakespearean work?), my man owns this. Making his own rules, like when someone told him the Royal Highness would see him now at the premiere. King Charles ain't got s### on him. This movie was meant for greatness, he need only give it a push. Legends like this echo in eternity. In this life or the next. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Gladiator', 'Robin Hood', 'Napoleon'.