TV REVIEW: MONSTERS AT WORK - Season 2

3/5

Chortle While You Work.

10 Episodes Starring: Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Ben Feldman, Mindy Kaling, Lucas Neff, Alanna Ubach, Rhys Darby & Henry Winkler. Developed By: Bobs Gannaway. On: Disney +.

It's laughter they're still after, as 'Monsters At Work' scares up a second season on Disney Plus. And it's a treat. Even if the trick of the spin-off series to the massive 'Monsters Inc'. and the successful sequel 'Monsters University' feels like the thin spread assembly line of Disney property, like all the 'Star Wars' and superheroes under the screaming service umbrella to Marvel at. Yet it still graduates.

We'd just love to see a trilogy this Halloween for the most successful Pixar property this side of 'Toy Story' and 'The Incredibles' heroes for hire. Just like a 'Big Hero 7' to all the 'Baymax!' spin-offs and shorts that are sweet, but are beginning to let a little air out of the huggable character. But what are we talking about? This is for kids. And it works. Albeit to leave them quiet for a few minutes as you laugh at the jokes aimed higher than the "you must be this tall to ride" sign, and more perfect puns that haunt like a 'Treehouse Of Terror' straight out of Evergreen Terrace serving as Elm Street. What else are you going to do, put 'em in front of a washing machine?

Legends Billy Crystal (although his first season stand-up to end the show is missed, like when 'Seinfeld' called it quits on his opening act) and John Goodman make good on lending their superstar voices to the iconic characters of the boger and the blanket, Mike and Sully. Yet they are not the stars of the show, even if they are given more screen-time in the second season to make sure your toddler doesn't throw the tablet like a tantrum.

It's Ben Feldman and Mindy Kaling's Tylor and Val who are the real monsters we follow after in their work. Opening more doors than bible salesmen in the belt. Kaling is king with her Happy Meal toy looking character being the cutest in this endearing second season One which features tried and tested timeless bits including, switching between dinner dates like Zack Morris in 'Saved By The Bell' and Dick Tracy like detectives in film noir and white. It swings for the fence. Especially with its pun happy 'Field Of Screams' episode that even bowls past 'The Big Wazowskis' of season one. A nod to John Goodman, marking it as zero.

Tying the bedroom together in knots, don't be MIFT. As this comedy of fits and starts, makes little errors. There are lots of recognizable voices for your newest and fondest characters. From Lucas Neff to Alanna Ubach. Or Rhys Darby's new character, picking up two Disney signed cheques this week, with this plus the streaming Searchlight picture 'Next Goal Wins' finding a home outside of New Zealand. All the way down to Henry Winker in the happy days of this Bobs Gannaway developed and show ran sequel. So grab your Drooler Kooler and let it go on. This isn't Shakespeare, its kids stuff that works. Now the only question remains, to scare, or not to scare? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Monsters Inc.', 'Monsters University', 'Baymax!'.

REVIEW: NEXT GOAL WINS

3.5/5

Fassbender Like Beckham.

104 Mins. Starring: Michael Fassbender, Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, David Fane, Rachel House, Beulah Koale, Taika Waititi, Rhys Darby, Will Arnett & Elisabeth Moss. Director: Taika Waititi. On: Disney +.

This next goal is going to be a winner, trust me.

I have two left feet. I have about as much business being on a soccer pitch as I do on a dance floor. In school, being ugly when it comes to the beautiful game was another entry on my bullying bingo card next to "skinnier than the corner flag" and "wears socks with sandals". But when Saturday came (it was probably actually a Tuesday) one day, I had my moment...from the corner of all places. The cross came in, and a mass of white school shirts with the ties taken off were in the area as the ball came up. Then, out of nowhere, I emerged and headed the ball across the line. OK, at this point I'd like to add the ball was about an inch or two from goal, and I kind of bumped into the ball, rather than headed it for home. But still, a goal is a goal. Then, crying foul, there were claims it just came off my shoulder (erm...), but like a skinny Maradona, it was the shoulder of God.

It was decided that only a penalty would settle this. So, I stepped up to the spot like Clearasil and felt like Southgate. The most nerve-wracking position in all sport. I still remember the look on the face of the boy in goal. He knew I didn't have what it took. And he was right...the ball sailed wide as he went the wrong way. I was heartbroken and when I heard cheers that made it all the more worse. But wait! You know what it's like in school, right? Just like in Sunday league, you play with coats as goalposts. Turns out one of the lads caught the left post on a half volley and kicked it past my shot, making it look like I missed. Between those two half goals, I'd finally scored. Even though it would be decades in the making before I actually did in a different kind of beautiful game. Sometimes one goal is all you need.

And that's what the 'Hunt For The Wilderpeople' and 'What We Do In The Shadows' director Taiki Waititi's 'Next Goal Wins' is all about. Now available to see on Disney + after the Searchlight picture's cinematic run across the football field last season. The 'Jojo Rabbit' dynamic director heads home and rebounds after the 'Love and Thunder' of his sequel to 'Thor-Ragnarök' didn't hit the heart like the lightning strike we all thought it would be. He even plays a priest like he did a hilarious Hitler in this film that feels like 'Cool Runnings' meets 'Bend It Like Beckham'. Albeit being based on an unbelievably true, and true to form, heart warmingly offbeat story.

Based on the 2014 documentary of the same name, 'Next Goal Wins' is the sports comedy-drama that scores, even if critics are calling sudden death for its director's career. Just wait, this is among his best, like 'Boy', as Taika takes the ball and clears everything except the crossbar. Dutch-American coach Thomas Rongen (who throws chairs like a wrong-un, or John Stamos' 'Big Shot') was tasked with taking one of the weakest football teams to the World Cup. The American Samoa national football team, who let more through the net than computers that allow more cookies than a monster. 

Here, Rongen is played by the right man for the job. First class 'X-Men' Magneto and 'The Killer' star Michael Fassbender with a bleached blonde do, looking like the 'Steve Jobs' star is about to play Marshall Mathers in his next biopic. With a 'Million Dollar Arm' like Jon Hamm for Disney, this mad men swings for the fence and hits the back of the net. No matter if we confuse our sports metaphors or if he lifts inspirational speeches from his favourite films on any given Sunday.

Yet it's the whole team that comes off the bench to give you an emotional lift. Even with big stars like Will Arnett, and Down Under neighbour Elisabeth Moss, it's the players themselves who are the magic sponge to this picture. Not to mention, 'Sione's Wedding' star Oscar Kightley who captures that Kiwi humour with Samoan pride. The actor, television presenter, writer, journalist, director, and comedian has even more jobs in this movie than he does in his professional career, but if all he had to do was warm your heart, then trust me, you're in safer hands than David Seaman. 

David Fane's lovable coach, 'Ragnarök' star Rachel House's hilarious lines and Beulah Koale's perfect teammate strengthen the side. But the rich vein of form belongs to Kaimana as fa'afafine player Jaiyah Saelua. The first transgender player ever to compete in a World Cup qualifier, who now serves as an ambassador for equality within FIBA and the watching world. It's a strike of real strength and beauty.

New Zealand favourite Rhys Darby also shows up alongside a recognizable voice and a Hemsworth (no...not that one...or that one). Fondly funny with feeling, this 'Next Goal' is the next film you should add to your scoresheet. It's the right play to make, like the more serious side of the historical account of 'The Beautiful Game' on Netflix with Bill Nighy. Lasso it, like Ted.

My heart may belong with the hoop dreams of basketball, but this game really is beautiful. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Looking For Eric', 'Cool Runnings', 'Boy'.

REVIEW: BOB MARLEY - ONE LOVE

4/5

Let's Get Together.

107 Mins. Starring: Kingsley Ben-Adir, Lashana Lynch & James Norton. Director: Reinaldo Marcus Green. In: Theatres.

He is legend. But let Will Smith tell it in 'I Am Legend'. "(Bob Marley) had this idea. He believed that you could cure racism and hate… literally cure it, by injecting music and love into people’s lives. When he was scheduled to perform at a peace rally, a gunman came to his house and shot him down. Two days later, he walked out on that stage and sang (and just watch him show his scars here). When they asked him why - He said, ‘The people who were trying to make this world worse… are not taking a day off. How can I? Light up the darkness.’" And there you have it. Bob Marley. A music icon, singing for peace and reaching words and worlds even Bob Dylan hadn't. You know, I feel frustrated when scenes from a trailer don't make it past the cutting room floor of a movie. And in the teaser for Reinaldo Marcus Green's ('King Richard', the movie that now lives in infamy for getting Will Smith an Oscar...and so much more) 'Bob Marley: One Love' (executive produced by Ziggy, Rita and Cedella Marley, amongst others) we see a journalist ask Kingsley Ben-Adir's king, beautiful and amazing Marley, "Bob, they tried to kill you and your wife. And now you're choosing to return to Jamaica to play a peace concert? Don't you fear for your life?" And Bob just looks at him. This is his message to you as he rides around his country like Will's 'Ali' in Africa.

"Do you really think this world will make it?" "Yes!" Even though the look that could say a thousand words and sing a million more songs doesn't make the final cut, it still sears and stares right through you. Just like Bob Marley's message. Everlasting with no exodus like three little birds outside your window. Rocking a dog called Samantha to sleep like Smith, or tickling your kids in the car's back seat with reassurance like a Marley. One love. One heart. One destiny. In RMG's 'One Love', KBA is the closest thing to the King. Someone you thought was unplayable and not portrayable, like when the law of 'Ripley's' charismatic star Johnny Flynn made a game attempt at Bowie for Ziggy's 'Stardust'. Yet Kingsley-Adir captures every nuance, every note of grace in a complicated man (the cheating has been safely sanitized like MLK's in 'Selma', but then again, they are reference, and this is not really what these movies are all about) with a simple message...peace! The man who perfectly played Malcolm X in the stage show adapted 'One Night In Miami...' portrays another monumental man with a message that transcended race and the borders of the walls put up by politicians, or those who want to leave others in the dirt, all just because of where they came from. The 'Barbie' Ken and Marvel 'Secret Invasion' villain, who cut his teeth on 'Peaky Blinders' and ITV's 'Vera', gives us the role of his life, that's so out of the box and a caped hero property, that like X, it's what he'll always be known, celebrated and remembered for. Accented and with a raised fist of pride for his people as sometimes he sings along with Bob in terrific takes.

Between back and forth's with writers fixing for a scoop, or at least some face-time, and studio sessions that show the work behind the wonder and the compelling craft of songwriting. Not to mention extremely epic performances, loud and close. This beautiful biopic is the closest thing to a Queen crowning and Mercury rising 'Bohemian Rhapsody' on those big three levels. With this picture of a prophet like Tupac Shakur's 'All Eyez On Me', hitting the epic, emotional, jet-soaring heights of a National Anthem at the Super Bowl by Whitney Houston in 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody'. But if he doesn't deserve an Academy Award for this like Rami Malek, then at least give him a nomination for the love of the ninth-highest-grossing movie of the year so far. With stellar support too, from 'Grantchester' and 'Happy Valley's' James Nolan, continuing the ITV connection, as Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, amongst others. Yet with no time to die, and a dread lock saving her life, it's Lashana Lynch that stands proud as Rita Marley, the one, true love of Bob. The 007 star who proved she could play Bond, and be another Marvel hero beyond its captain, is on an era like no other. And here she is the spiritual core and the grounding centre, as muse's serenity. 'The Woman King' indeed. Marley and she, there's no better partnership. And like the end, that flows more like a river, than stops in its tracks like a life cut short, proves one thing. Like love, the legend of Bob lives on. Something spiritual, bordering on the biblical. Exodus. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Bohemian Rhapsody', 'All Eyez On Me', 'Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody'.

TV REVIEW: JOHN MULANEY PRESENTS: EVERYBODY'S IN LA

4/5

To Live & Laugh In LA. 

6 Episodes. Hosted By: John Mulaney. Announcer: Richard Kind. Created By: John Mulaney. On: Netflix.

Even the comeback kid of the theme tune to Marvel's 'X-Men '97' revival animated series on Disney Plus has a hard time beating this. That is, the iconic titles to classic comedian John Mulaney's legendary new live-streaming Netflix talk show 'Everybody's In LA'. Hot off the Venice Beach, boardwalk skating heels of his 'Baby J' comeback special from last year, and last month's 'My Next Guest' chat with David Letterman, who returns the couch favour here. As soon as the car radio clock goes from 6:59 to 7:00PM and the new wave of Wang Chung's 'To Live and Die In L.A.' come into play as cards drop and turn into jacket laden watches, people play pick-up hoops, choppers ride and fly through the city and special guest's (whose reveal we'll leave to the showmanship) are karate chopped into existence. Sure, Wang Chung aren't from Los Angeles (they're actually from England), and neither is John, but that doesn't matter. This syndicate is more Los Angeles Times than a newspaper drenched by the sprinklers on a front lawn those in New York could only dream of. Let alone us in Tokyo and the rest of the streaming and watching world. All as we exhibit the weirdest Banksy. This comeback couldn't have happened to a better kid.

The maestro of monologues. Move over Jimmy's, it's time for the Johnny's (erm...), especially as another one comes in, tying the room together like a Lebowski talk show. After these sweet six, offbeat and irreverently inspired epic episodes that are as random as they come (Nikki Glaser puts this "in-joke" perfectly after ruling on the 'Roast Of Tom Brady' as Netflix really is a big joke right now like an 'Unfrosted' Jerry Seinfeld), you'll be left wanting more. Give John Mulaney his own late night show right now. Even if we'll miss his stand-up circuit and classic characters, as he brings some of his own biggest Broadway stars back. This is the best thing the terrifically talented man has done since his absolutely amazing 'Sack Lunch Bunch' like Mr. Rogers, shows he should have his own kids show too. Won't he be our neighbour? And just like Jake Gyllenhaal stole the show as the Music Man of that truly special, special, the amazing announcer of Richard Kind (no, not Colin Farrell's Penguin in 'The Batman' as I keep telling myself) as John's new best friend makes everything so much better. Game for endearingly laughing in the background. Especially when he invents his own conversation starter pack that could give Cards Against Humanity a run for their money that they probably pay out in fines. And just wait until, like giving it to Joaquin Phoenix in 'Beau Is Afraid', the 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' lets a delivery robot called SAMO have it for taking his girl and the legs from under him.

Providing the snacks and refreshments, you're telling me this robot is actually real? Rolling 'round the streets of LA like Snoop and Dre on hydraulics. How has he not been lifted. Because he's the real star of the show. Despite even the courtside celebrities that are too good to be true, they make the ones at Laker games a trip, like Larry David and Shaq. Comedian friends, famous actors and the like. Experts on everything from earthquakes to the La Brea Tar Pits. The off the cuff talk is anything but cheap, as it all links together like the special segments that show every part of Los Angeles in all its glory. Not to mention the massive musical guests that couldn't be more LA if they were stuck in traffic, tuning into the radio where they play (especially the last one in legendary closing who our sister site AMPs & 808s was lucky enough to see live in Japan, last month). Or to forget the real residents of this one-of-a-kind city who call in with their own stories about the City Of Angels. Emmy ready, call the request on this love letter to LA like Randy Newman, dedicated to the late, great Sam Rubin. Because this is one of the best things you'll see all year in a city that's facing the loss of its iconic palm trees and the Lakers these days raising banners on an In-Season Tournament. This is the John Mulaney experience. LA style. And here's to the first spot on the Stars and Stripes I ventured to, like Ventura, when I tried to make my American dream the stuff of more than pipes. Storm through this dry humour like the drains and the heat is well and truly on like Michael, man. The only question remains, what kind of car do YOU drive? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: John Mulaney-'Baby J', 'John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch', 'My Next Guest With David Letterman & John Mulaney'.

TV REVIEW: X-MEN '97 - Season 1

4/5

Days Of Future Past.

10 Episodes. Starring: Ray Chase, Jennifer Hale, Alison Sealy-Smith, Cal Dodd, J. P. Karliak, Lenore Zann, George Buza, A. J. LoCascio, Holly Chou, Isaac Robinson-Smith, Matthew Waterson, Ross Marquand & Adrian Hough. Created By: Beau DeMayo, On: Disney +.

Magneto WAS right! Da-da-da-da-da..DA! Da-da-da-da-da..DA! As soon as you hear the iconic theme tune by Ron Wasserman, you just know it's on. The original titles of the classic 90s 'X-Men' animated series (that only Batman's one back then could rival). Unfrosted and without the extra bass seasons later, like the time the 'Seinfeld' guitar tried to experiment, searching with soul singing. Marvel and Disney Plus have brought them back. Decades after wanting and waiting for the 20th Century Fox rights of the 'X-Men' film franchise to be locked up in the M.C.U like The Joker in 'The Dark Knight', mainly for Hugh Jackman's Wolverine, it's finally here almost a quarter of a century later. And what do we get for our patience? A twofer of claws coming out. Jackman will make his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut in 'Deadpool and Wolverine', this Summer, reuniting with Ryan Reynolds after the botched job of Wade Wilson in the still fun 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine'. Taking over Robert Downey Jr.'s Iron Man again to be the man in the most superhero movies as Logan runs again. Even if in this animated series, he's mostly milk carton.

Previously on 'X-Men', who would have thought it would be the class of '97 reunion of Professor Xavier's gifted youngsters in Saturday morning cartoon form that would save the stumbling superhero property that is the marvellous Marvel? Righting the ship after box-office blunders like 'The Marvels' and 'Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania' or critically clawed shows like 'She-Hulk' and 'Secret Invasion'...although let it be said that I like all of these...very much. Beau DeMayo may have reportedly been fired, but his 'X-Men '97' is the spoonful of sugar and nostalgia we need, like Jerry Seinfeld's new Netflix comedy movie. Ever since we heard those iconic guitars in the 'Ms. Marvel' reveal, we've been waiting with bated breath. But now it's time to compose ourselves like The Newton Brothers for these ten top episodes of epic-ness that looks outstandingly like the original. Not just that, Ray Chase, Jennifer Hale, Alison Sealy-Smith, Cal Dodd, J. P. Karliak, Lenore Zann, George Buza, A. J. LoCascio, Holly Chou, Isaac Robinson-Smith, Matthew Waterson, Ross Marquand and Adrian Hough. They're all back, like your childhood dreams and hairlines from the 90s. You thought Netflix's anime 'Scott Pilgrim' was a treat, bringing everyone back from the movie that came out in the early 2000s? Well...you ain't see nothing yet. And "To Be Continued" there's more to come in these days of future past that could do a sequel way better than the blockbuster movies, just like the comics did with their better stand on the Dark Phoenix saga.

Before all that, the best animated thing out of Disney, that is done proud by Pixar, can still break your heart. Why? Nah...we want to hold some of the cards. But you've never seen anything like this. Comic callbacks. Classic cameos. Amazing action. Helpings of heart. Joking jabs after catching stray shots, going hell for black leather. Easter Eggs don't crack you up quite like this. Even the video game like character select closing credits will have you sticking around like the bird for that eyes view of the school. The beginnings of Marvel Animation, like a 'What If...?', or Marvel Television (it was Agatha all along) to come, couldn't have started off bolder or more beautiful. Picking up where the end of 1996 left off, this revival in more ways than one brings the heart paddles to Feige's franchise interest that finally has the right (way to go K.E.V.I.N.). As the soap opera drama, and serious topics that hold up a mirror to the watching world reflected in racism and class divides like a new 'Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes', show how serious this all is. And just why this might still be Marvel's most popular and successful superhero team. More than those original Avengers, or the first family of the 'Fantastic Four', bookending the M.C.U. at this point. Besides, with Morph, you get a walking cameo. Even if those are complaining that he looks more like that claymation creature. The same claiming foul about how Rogue looks at a certain angle. It's all Jessica Rabbit weirdo fanboys...and I should be ashamed of myself. But I digress in embarrassment. Oh, and you know this streaming service Plus needn't have bothered with that whole "Skip Intro" thing. I bet it hasn't even been click baited once. To Disney, my X-Men. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'X-Men: The Animated Series', 'X-Men: Days Of Future Past', 'Deadpool & Wolverine'.

TV REVIEW: TOKYO VICE - Season 2

4/5

Vice City Stories. 

10 Episodes. Starring: Ansel Elgort, Ken Watanabe, Rachel Keller, Show Kasamatsu, Rinko Kikuchi, Ayumi Ito, Atomu Mizuishi, Hyunri Lee, Miki Maya & Yōsuke Kubozuka. Created By: J.T. Roberts. On: Max.

'Miami Vice', this is not. Whilst Crockett and Tubbs roll up their pastel coloured suit sleeves to look the part. Ansel Elgort ('Baby Driver', 'West Side Story') and Ken Watanabe's ('The Last Samurai', 'Inception') respective journalist and detective characters do the same to their black and beige, in order to do the dirty work that no one else will. Take on the Yakuza in Japan where most hide the honest truth behind the three faces they show at work, home and to themselves only. 'Billionaire Boys Club' and 'Divergent' star Elgort playing journalist Jake Adelstein, whose memoir ('Tokyo Vice: An American Reporter On The Police Beat In Japan') this series is based on ('The Last Yazua' writer's own sequel 'Tokyo Noir, is coming soon, and we hope it will inspire a third season here), has endeared himself to Japanese audiences, learning the language and respecting the culture with the deepest of bows. Much like 'Batman Begins', 'Godzilla' and 'Letters From Iwo Jim' star Ken Watanabe did in Hollywood after he made his Hollywood debut in Tom Cruise's 'The Last Samurai', alongside fellow Japanese legend Hiroyuki Sanada. The '47 Ronin' and 'Mortal Kombat' actor's own seriously successful 'Shōgun' series on FX, going head-to-head with his old friend.

Watanabe and Elgort are excellent in J.T. Roberts' ('Oslo') vice grip in the land of the rising sun. Especially when they get their Starsky and Hutch (complete with the classic car) on over coffee or whiskey, as they swap stories and share information. Both men knowing what it's like to go against the tide of traditions that are so ingrained into a Tokyo that is one-half, still part Edo era, and the other, watching the western world it takes cues from in inspiration, all whilst being its own individual, compelling city as it is. Ansel handles what it's like to be a foreigner (or, somewhat disrespectfully, "gaijin") here in all its dream like wonder and disillusioned loneliness. Whilst Watanabe earns his spurs again as a Casio watch in a G-SHOCK time that must adapt to the Japan he thought he knew shifting under his feet. Let alone the dark underworld that threatens to take him from within. Just wait until he literally breaks down a scene. It's a masterclass in a double-act. But it doesn't end there. You only need to see the views of the establishing shots of Tokyo (looking as iconic as New York in the movies) to realize how vast and nuanced this place is, just like the millions of inhabitants who squeeze onto the trains every day in the same suit and ties that bind. 'Legion' and 'Fargo' star Rachel Keller goes even deeper, showing you just what it's like for a woman in the shadier parts of Tokyo and Japan, especially an American one. And this time she's joined by a standout second season star Hyunri Lee. The South Korean 'Pachinko' actress, giving you a closer look at the real lives between those dedicated to more than just a service in a hostess club.

Opening up even more stands of plot and people brought into this world from mobsters to architects. Yet it's first season scene stealer Show Kasamatsu who continues to show out. The yak with a heart who inks an even more inspired portrayal in this season, just when you thought he'd done it all in what looked like his character's winter. But it's the make-or-break stakes with his younger brother Atomu Mizuishi (the young 'Prince Of Tennis') that are a real study. Especially when live-wire gangster and J-pop star Yōsuke Kubozuka ('Giri/Haji' and the guy who kept stepping on s### in Scorsese's 'Silence') gets involved. Highlighting the rest of this rich and compelling cast of characters (although Ella Rumpf and Hideaki Itō are missed), 'Babel', 'Pacific Rim' and 'Norwegian Wood' Rinko Kikuchi is one of the stars of the show, and this journalist has her own serious side story that demands your attention. And on the Watanabe side of the investigation, icon Miki Maya makes her mark. From Hiroshima and born in the same year as the Tokyo Olympics, Maya has built an incredible career from the Troupe theatre, all the way to movies like 'Once Upon A Crime'. She's also dubbed in acting work for American movies akin to Japan, like 'Hachi: A Dog's Tale' and 'Godzilla x Kong; The New Empire', but nothing carries like her voice here as a National Police Agency detective who takes the lead and no prisoners. Add the 'Final Fantasy', 'Story Game' of Ayumi Ito's beautiful but Capulet and Montague doomed romance and these vices have everything you could ask for in a ('Tokyo!') tale. And it's true too...all of it. This nuanced noir by the book is a journalistic investigation that will leave ink on your fingers, like the prints ready to be taken by the police with their own story. It's a mob hit like no other. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Shōgun', 'The Journalist', 'Giri/Haji'.

REVIEW: KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

4/5

What A Wonderful World.

145 Mins. Starring: Owen Teague, Freya Allan, Kevin Durand, Peter Macon & William H. Macy. Director: Wes Ball. In: Theatres.

Apes. Together. For so long. Starting off like 'Star Wars', decades ago, way back in 1968. You know what? That's even further than a galaxy far, far away. From Charlton Heston's "damn dirty apes", to the flaring nostrils of Mark Wahlberg's "how's your mother doing", Tim Burton remake. Not to mention all the Statue of Liberty heads in the sand like an 'Escape From New York' and 'The Simpsons' musicals starring Troy McClure (you may know this from, "Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius") in-between. One of the most underrated franchises in cult film history, from science-fiction to comic-books, also recently released one of the most underappreciated trilogies ('Rise', 'Dawn' and 'War') to go alongside all the 'Dark Knights', 'Godfathers' and 'Lord of the Rings' (and only one of these big-threes had a satisfying conclusion) in holy trinity cinematic history. And now, they're aiming for nine films with a new one to give us a trilogy of trilogies. But before you say, "stop the 'Planet Of The Apes', I want to get off", just wait until they crown the 'Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes' in this simian game of thrones that could even make Godzilla and Kong's heads roll in this brand-new empire.

Out of this world intellectual property like 'Star Trek' that boldly gone on for new life and new civilizations long, these apes may no longer be humans decked out in Carhartt attire any more, but they're a far cry from the PG Tips "no animals were harmed" commercial product. This is CGI at its mo-capped, green screen finest that makes you forget this isn't as real as it could possibly get. And to those thinking that looking for new life in this franchise is like picking through the business of monkey hair looking for new strands of a plot, don't shriek in fear. This sequel of sorts is set hundreds of years into the future, so you won't exactly be saying hail Caesar in an opening act that would be as emotional as the beginning of the 'Black Panther' sequel 'Wakanda Forever', if it wasn't for the real world effects of said Marvel movie. Which means, sadly, no Andy Serkis, who is long overdue for an Oscar for these types of roles (let alone his "other" acting and directing career on the side), as they've just announced a hunt for Gollum movie that will have YouTube up in arms. Let's hope this 'Kingdom' as popular as a Japanese movie of the same name makes people curious like George. Because if Ryan Gosling's 'The Fall Guy' and the best red carpet photo-op ever could give the stuntmen a well deserved Academy category, then this planet should do the same for the humans reverting back to ape form like primal primates.

This standalone sequel from the wonder of Wes Ball (the 'Maze Runner' trilogy) has its own wonderful day. And when it comes to those monkeying around, 'It' and 'Black Mirror' star Owen Teague would make Caesar proud with a kestrel ("come on Kes") for a knave. His heroic Noah has a story arc ready for his own trilogy to come, like those animals, two-by-two. But it's Kevin Durand (no typo, not the basketball player with a "T"), The Blob of 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine' and Little John of 'Robin Hood' who has the line to die for as a Caesar proxy who would be king. Even if 'The Orville' star and the 'Family Guy' recognizable voice of Peter Macon, steals the show and our hearts as the coolest and most compelling, storytelling orangutan who brings us up to "previously on" speed. As for those damn dirty humans that join the likes of James Franco, Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman and Woody Harrelson seemingly shaving his head for the entirety of the 'War For The Planet Of The Apes' with a straight razor, there's a shameless William H. Macy for your big, Hollywood walk of fame names. Yet it's 'The Witcher' and 'Gunpowder Milkshake' great British star of right now and the future, Freya Allan, who really resonates, excelling like Microsoft as the search engines will be dialled up to her name like future scripts and casting calls. You see, in this action adventure dystopia reboot, 300 years later, humans have lost more than their way and planet as a disease hits close to home like the planetary pandemic we just suffered through. But Freya forges on, just like this franchise that still has something to say about racism and class divides. Dreaming in metaphors, these apes are even smarter than they look. And when it comes down to the cinematic capturing, you've never seen anything like these chimps. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'War For The Planet Of The Apes', 'Planet Of The Apes (1968)', 'Godzilla x King: The New Empire'. 

TV REVIEW: STAR WARS - TALES OF THE EMPIRE

4/5

Empire State Of Mind.

6 Episodes. Starring: Meredith Salenger, Diana Lee Inosanto, Morgan Elsbeth & Rya Kihlstedt. Created By: Dave Filoni. On: Disney +.

It's going to be May the 4th again before you know it. So if you missed out on hashtagging, or running a marathon through all the movies, or 'The Mandalorian', don't fret like C-3PO. The date you're looking for as you swipe will be here again in hyperspace speed. Now as 'May The 12th be With You' celebrates Disney and Mother's Day with a new crossover short from 'The Simpsons', let's take a look at some more shorts that we pulled up on Disney Plus to celebrate the "may the force be with you" day of May. Following their 'Tales Of A Jedi', 'Star Wars' and their new master Dave Filoni give you the dark side of 'Tales Of The Empire' to add to your batch of 'Clone Wars' and even more amazing animation than the streaming service where this galaxy far, far away calls home.

The yin to the last Jedi show's yang, 'Star Wars: Tales Of The Empire' features the vivid vocal talents of Meredith Salenger, Diana Lee Inosanto, Morgan Elsbeth and Rya Kihlstedt. Boasting some of the best lightsabre battles you'll see on any medium, all large scale in their grandiosity, and this is at a time when 'The Phantom Menace' and its classic double-sided sabre reveal has just become the most watched 'Star Wars' movie in cinemas after an anniversary run. After the conclusion of 'The Bad Batch', here are some new Star Wars 'Visions' to coral into the canon, as it's all connected. Each video game backstory and the synopsis on the back of every card that trades. But these top tales trump them all. From afar, amazingly this all looks believably real, but by the hilt, the accented animated look showcases a much more wonderful world and one in its own right. These six anthology shorts of the Galactic Empire feature many an Easter Egg reference or compelling cameo that will make the hands stand on the back of your arms like a Spidey-sense. Wait...wrong Disney property.

Where Marvel are going through the malaise of saturated superhero cape fear that only "Marvel Jesus", Deadpool can save with Wolverine, 'Star Wars' are thriving with their connected worlds on a spider-strand on tie-in display. Rising in red like Vader's sabre. From 'Obi-Wan' to 'Ahsoka', or BB-8 to The Child better known as Grogu...or Baby Yoda. And this is before the interesting looking 'Acolyte' comes here, just over a month later on June the 5th. 'The Path Of Anger'. 'The Path Of Fear'. 'The Path Of Hate'. Even the titles of the big, first three epic episodes sound like they could cut you in two. Mauling you with little light from this darker side of the force. It's the perfect companion piece to all the animations they've cloned across galaxies, and all the novels and comic-books that have narrated side-stories from these wars of the stars. The yarn of these tall tales is not hard to believe, just follow the thread. And even with less episode time than a standard sitcom, there are still some serious lessons to be learnt from the timeless teachings across samurai pagodas that are instantly relatable and quotable. You may recognize a character or too many (just kidding...we could never get enough) from the 'Ahsoka' show that did for 'The Clone Wars' what Disney's live-action movies do for their classic cartoons. But trust, if you're new to the visionary cloning by the batches, you've never seen anything like this before. In two arcs like Noah, what better way to go forth with the May holiday. The nostalgia for history and legacy is strong with this one. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Star Wars: Tales Of The Jedi', 'Star Wars: The Bad Batch', 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars'.

SHORT REVIEW: THE SIMPSONS - MAY THE 12th BE WITH YOU

4/5

Mothership Connection.

5 Mins.  Starring: Dan Castellaneta & Julie Kavner. Director: David Silverman. On: Disney +.

More than a "Revenge Of The Sixth" gag for those who were late to the May the 4th party, like forgetting to post an N-Sync meme on the last day of April, 'The Simpsons: May The 12th Be With You' is for the mothers. For this is their day...unless you live in the UK...but then again, shouldn't it be their day every day? Ever since Mickey Mouse had his shorts eaten and started piloting the Millennium Falcon like 'Steamboat Willie', the mouse's house, which celebrated its century anniversary last year, has crossed the streams with superb synergy between 'The Simpsons' and 'Star Wars'. Two cultural cornerstones that are arguably the most famous animation and science-fictions ever...if not the best.

After the force awoke from its nap, 'The Simpsons' have cornered the menacing market on Star Wars skits, like a phantom Vader shadow hanging over a young Anakin. Like the 'Blue Harvest' of a 'Family Guy', or a 'Robot Chicken' pecking, Matt Groening's yellow submarine doesn't give a cluck about copyrights. But that's OK. They're all under the same umbrella now, and in the same week that Disney re-debuts The Beatles 'Let It Be' documentary 50 years later, they give us another trip to Evergreen Terrace with a difference. Last week, the May the 4th (be with you...you just can't not say it) began with all episodes of the animated 'Star Wars: Tales Of The Empire' animation to add to the batch of Jedis and clones. And now, it ends with their twelfth night.

All you need is doh! But Homie (Dan Castellaneta), this David Silverman directed short episode that takes cues from Dave Filoni is Marge's moment, ma. Not to mention, more Disney princesses and queens than you can fit in a Death Star...or off-pink station wagon that doesn't know when to put on the brakes as it heads for another classic couch gag for your set. But we can't say, like deciding what to watch on Disney Plus. Needless to say, you'll be spoilt for choice like the ultimate barbecue that's still good, even if it's a little airborne in a galaxy far, far away. But this ultimate fandom experience like visiting the 'Galaxy's Edge' at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida is complete with neighbours even more nosey than the twitching moustache of Flanders. But alas, we must back up into a hedge before we say too much before the classic closing credits of concept art that could rival 'The Mandalorian'. This show is only five minutes long, it's what your next visit to the John is looking for. After that, may you spend this day on what really matters. Your own legendary mother. May the sentiment be with her. Happy Mother's Day! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Simpsons: The Force Awakens From Its Nap', 'Family Guy: Blue Harvest', 'Star Wars: Tales Of The Empire'.

REVIEW: UNFROSTED

3.5/5

No Cereal For You.

93 Mins. Starring: Jerry Seinfeld, Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan, Max Greenfield, Hugh Grant & Amy Schumer. Director: Jerry Seinfeld. On: Netflix.

How's this for a bit over breakfast? Cue the sitcom bass guitar. Jerry Seinfeld recently got a frosty reaction online for saying comedy is too safe and PC these days, at the risk of offending people (you know he's right). But you know what the funny thing...his straight shooting and wit laced comedy has always played it picket fence, suburb safe. And we love that about him. Just as much as we love Jim Carrey's impression of him. Or the show 'Seinfeld' co-creator Larry David curbed, keeping our enthusiasm going for twelve seasons and a lot of social situations and faux pas triggered into classic comedy canon oblivion. Jerry almost got 'Seinfeld' finale level disdain for these observations. A wrong he and David righted with the meta finale of 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' last month. Still, the most stand-up guy in comedy like that, still helps out his fellow funny man...and woman. And it seems like they're all here in Jerry Seinfeld's directorial debut on Netflix, this week. The place he gave the classic morning routine of 'Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee'.  Breakfast can't wait this time though, like Prince playing with David Chappelle's impression of him.

The founder of Kellogg's may have something to say about the factual accuracies of this brekkie biopic that does for the most important meal of the day what Greta and Margot did for 'Barbie'. But Kenough of all that. A talking ravioli that stretches Netflix's CGI budget that already went on more guest spots than we can say...or spoil like your dinner if you snack on cereal with a movie beforehand (as if you're not watching this home movie streaming service throwback gem with corn flakes instead of popcorn). This Pop Tart origin story is super and one of the most offbeat and funniest things you'll see this month in Netflix's comedy fest headlined by the return of John Mulaney (check out his 'My Next Guest' interview with David Letterman) for his live 'Everybody's In LA' special, featuring Seinfeld on the couch as a great gag of a guest in the first episode. Like roasting Tom Brady...Netflix is well and truly a joke right now...and a good one at that. What we will say about the special guests stepping up to the mic is that it doesn't get much better than Walter Cronkite, Andy Warhol and JFK...of course not the actual people, but the people playing them...who we'll never squeal on. Let's just say one of them has no business being in a Seinfeld show with that potty mouth and that hair must have been taken on the same trip to Turkey as Jerry, because that hairline is the best comeback story like the one we're going to see with Kramer. You just had to shed a tear on the red carpet with Michael Richards...even if the K man's rumoured role is on a milk carton here.

There's plenty to get your spoon into though as you get your multipack fill. Buttering your toast, but not frosting these flakes (way to piss in them, Jer), Seinfeld conceived this idea during COVID, whilst we were figuring out whether three bowls of cereal could constitute as three square meals when we forgot to do our supermarket run before the lockdown. It turns out, working away at his craft, Jerry is just as good a director, as he is a comic and actor...or should that be, comic actor? Writing his own bits and riffing on the most random movie of the year that also takes on one subject he sends up, perfectly and pointedly. But again, we won't spoil the show. It's a gas. And the laughing one is turned on, as the toaster is dialled up to eleven. This jam is hot with great support from some of the funniest in the biz, from Melissa McCarthy to Amy Schumer...wonder what it would be like to have these two classic comediennes in the same movie, no more. Not to mention fellow compelling, clean comic Jim Gaffigan sweeping the tablecloth from under everyone, or 'New Girl's' Max Greenfield as the best boy, amazing assistant, playing it all off perfectly. Add that milk to all the classic cameo, surprise toys in the pack and the best use of cereal for a hangover. Not to mention a classic snap, crackle and pop that Larry David would love the reference of like a Krazee-Eyez Killa, and the best advertising firm around to shell this product in the 50s. And what you have is the icing on the top of a terrific tall tale with all the trimmings. Hold the frosting on these corn flakes that go down easy like the milk, man, because when you see who Hugh Grant is playing, that's when you'll see how grrreat this bowled over cereal really is. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Seinfeld', 'The Founder', 'John Mulaney Presents: Everybody's In LA'. 

TV REVIEW: RIPLEY - Miniseries

4/5

The Thomas Ripley Affair.

8 Episodes. Starring: Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning, Johnny Flynn, Eliot Sumner, Margherita Buy & Maurizio Lombardi. Director: Steven Zaillian. On: Netflix.

Believe it or not. Andrew Scott wants you to get out more and get over 'Fleabag'. Is the man, who is rumoured to be in a 'Tortured Men's Club' group chat with 'All Of Us Strangers' co-star Paul Mescal and Taylor Swift ex Joe Alwyn that inspired the name of her latest album, telling me to get a life? Maybe he just knows that if the "sexy priest" takes it further, we'll all fall in love again. Besides, there's much more to the villainous 'Sherlock' and 'Spectre' star. Now, if you thought his priest was holy, this is Moriarty we're talking about. This month, he gets to play the ultimate one with the biggest confidence in Netflix's new, slow burning limited series 'Ripley', shot in beautiful European black and white for you film noir buffs all about the art. Classic cinematography based on 'The Price Of Salt' (that inspired the classic, cinematic 'Carol') writer Patricia Highsmith's 'The Talented Mr. Ripley', which has already been adapted into a great movie starring Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow and a young Matt Damon literally getting his oar in after his 'Good Will Hunting' Oscar success. After 'Spectre' and 'Sherlock', Scott shows his slimy side as a snake of a villain that sheds more skin than psoriasis. But that's the only gross thing about this gorgeously shot bit of filmmaking that shouldn't be passed over for baby reindeer's and the latest tiger king, like Netflix obsession. Mind hunt through this one, where even stranger things happen, and you'll see the real makings of a murderer and a man unmade.

Neo-noir psychologically thrilling television in all its eight wonders don't come much better than this from 'The Night Of' creator Steven Zaillian who cut his teeth with screenplays for 'Schindler's List', 'Gangs Of New York', and 'The Irishman'. Based on the 1955 novel idea, this is a more mesmerizing mystery than Agatha Christie. For the Poirot's that is. As we know all about Thomas Ripley and his talents for trickery and descending into darkness. This is Ripley's game...we're just along for the ride. The victims here, well, they've been through it. The "I've seen this guy somewhere before" of 'One Life' star Johnny Flynn caught flack for the impossible task of playing the late, great David Bowie far too soon in 'Stardust'. But here as the Law of Dickie Greenleaf, taking over the hey Jude character before Andrew assumes his identity, he showcases how sensational a talent he is on a show originally meant for Showtime before this streaming service came in with the Netflix money. Then, Marge, who Paltrow played powerfully, is perfected by 'The Sixth Sense' of 'Once Upon A Time In Hollywood' star Dakota Fanning. No stranger to detection, recently reuniting with Denzel Washington after 'Man On Fire' for the trilogy concluding 'The Equalizer'. She has none here, no matter what you think of her taste in scarves.

Call the police like LCD Soundsystem, because Sting and Trudie Styler's singing and songwriting offspring Eliot Sumner steals the show as a concerned friend already riled up by Ripley. After making their mark in 'The Gentlemen' and 'No Time To Die', the sum of Sumner's parts adds even more to this already amazing affair. As does the Italian of seven-time David di Donatello Awards winner Margherita Buy as a landlady with the lay of the land, a soft spot and a hard edge. Or the decadent detective (complete with a moustache, of course) Maurizio Lombardi ('The Young Pope', 'The New Pope' and 'Citadel: Diana') assigned to the case. The perfect playwright and stage director going back and forth with Scott's Tom over cigarettes and niceties that could kill you one day, you know, like Sumner summing him up. And let's not forget the classic cameos. This perfect production illuminated the screen without so much a drop of colour, aside from blood-red, that Zaillian knows all too well about after Spielberg's famous and heartbreaking coat from 'Schindler's List'. Haunting, spellbinding and fiercely loyal to Patricia Highsmith's hallmark work. All the way until the credits roll like heads, and sound spins the mystery of tales to come in the episodes that follow like the countdown of your "continue watching" button to press play. Are you ready to spider-diagram more in these webs we weave? Follow the strand like Sherlock. Don't take the skills and smarts of 'Ripley' for granted. Catch him if you can. The talented Sexy Priest. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Talented Mr. Ripley', 'Carol', 'All Of Us Strangers'.