TV REVIEW: TOKYO VICE - Season 1

4/5

The Outsider.

8 Episodes. Starring: Ansel Elgort, Ken Watanabe, Rachel Keller, Hideaki Itō, Show Kasamatsu, Ella Rumpf, Rinko Kikuchi & Tomohisa Yamashita. Created By: J.T. Rogers. 

Tell me why?! Not just why the classic Backstreet Boys masterpiece (and I ain't putting it in quotes, it's true. Don't laugh, Ansel) is actually about, *holds fist firmly* (but that's for another conversation), but why in a show and scene like this. One that has the camaraderie of friends between those who should be foes (a yakuza runner and the journalist working an investigation beat on his organisation and its crimes), as the former taxis the latter around Tokyo with 'Mudbound' like protagonist bonding. Bantering over BSB and N*Sync (imitators...again no quotation marks. Don't jeer me, baby, it's just Justin) and then taking it to the club. Tell me why, it's tearing up your heart like this. Even if there ain't nothing like a heartbreak. I don't want to hear you say J.T Elliott's 'Tokyo Vice' produced by 'Miami Vice's' own Michael Mann with the 'Heat' sequel in paperback 'round the corner is another white saviour stereotype. This 'Outsider' of an eight part wonder, worthy of a miniseries second season is not like the Netflix movie were Jared Leto joins the Yakuza (which is actually a damn, good film. And respectful one too. Without kissing the ring). Nor is it a Netflix 'Giri/Haji' either, switching between the 'Duty' and 'Shame' of Tokyo and London. Not lost in translation, this is more like the Japanese 'Journalist' of fellow Netflix fame under the black rain of all that the sleazy night neon hides in the shadows. But taking it to the Max original for HBO. Or WowWow here in Japan (yeah, I don't need to keep speaking on it, we know where I live now. It's not a brag. I'm just glad), without a maximum Home Box Office...yet (it took a minute for Mickey's Disney +). The same reviews calling this compelling contemporary crime drama whitewashed would be the same who would label a brotherly bond between a weary travelling journalist and a mob member who just wants one last job as toxic, without taking into account dramatic nuance. And the humanity. Besides, holding Tokyo in a vice grip, J.T. and Mann's made police drama gets it right. All the way down to what it's like being a "gaijin" living in Japan. But I will tell you what a white person here has little right to do...complain about racism in this day and age. Just got to keep fighting the good fight. It's not saving the day. Just trying to make it a little bit better. For everyone. God that sounds like savior s###, doesn't it?! 

In a time were HBO being unavailable in the Far East is really teasing me (I mean a drama about Tokyo and the Lakers ('Winning Time') released in the same month?! C'mon, c'mon like Joaquin Phoenix) this series is one of the best things on television, springing up this season. All in a post 'Peacemaker' and 'Peaky Blinders' and pre 'Obi-Wan' and 'Ms. Marvel' time were we have the delights of new 'Moon Knight', 'Atlanta' and 'The Rise Of The Lakers' each week. Annnnnnd they've just released all the final episodes of 'Ozark'. Ali Plumb was right. There really is too many shows. What a time to be sat in front of the screen when you should be outside and alive! Better call someone like Saul for all these new episodes that are opening up on us like a 'Russian Doll'. And again, to all those questioning the validity of this series of events. Take a look at the executive producers chair alongside the likes of Mann and star for this vehicle Ansel Elgort. How about Jake Adelstein who Ansel actually plays?! The actual journalist who wrote the memoir 'Tokyo Vice: An American Reporter on the Police Beat in Japan'. This isn't like the Showtime series based on Jeff Pearlman's book thats riling up more Lakers than Pat that the NBA logo Jerry West actually wants to take Adam Mckay and them all the way to the supreme court. And again, in showing us the fleshed out, flesh and blood characters of those fingerless monsters in all the grey areas of their tattoos makes this show one not of stereotype, but of humanity. Even those who do the inhumane. If you're not crying on one rooftop view then you might want to check if you're the actual definition of a "gaijin". From the moment the inked artwork of this show's theme spills out all the elements of storytelling in clues before you. You'll be hooked and twisted and turned like a spider diagram into your own investigation of all this like the cops and reporters. This vice just won't let you go. It keeps a firm hold like a finger wrapped in white bandage. 

Dark, dangerous, but still illuminating like crossing Shibuya at night. 'Tokyo Vice' will go down as one of the best mob hits in Hollywood meets Japanese cinematic history. Like the time Michael Douglas and Andy Garcia teamed up with late legend Ken Takakura (we're still moved by his reaction to receiving those shirts off Douglas, BEFORE he realised what was under them) for Ridley Scott in 80's Osaka, like a running man. This time it's 'Baby Driver' Ansel Elgort fresh off a 'West Side Story' reinvention allying with 'The Last Samurai' and 'Inception' star Ken Watanabe, no stranger himself to controversy in his own country. But the amazing acting the 'Batman Begins', 'Godzilla', 'Letters From Iwo Jima' and 'Fukushima 50' legend on two continents saves for the final moments of the final episode will have you on your hands and knees for another season. Meanwhile, the energy of Elgort extends beyond his beautiful gesture of learning the language inside and out, that translates to a press conference tour even more impressive than 'Last Samurai' Tom Cruise, whose one introduced regular actors Watanabe and Hiroyuki Sanada ('Mortal Kombat' and biting the dust in TWO separate Marvel universes in this 'Multiverse Of Madness') to the Hollywood world. Still, this series isn't just about him. Especially with the 'Legion' of talent Rachel Keller brings to proceedings. Getting in to deep to this underworld with 'Tiger Girl' Ella Rumpf in this year of one and singer, actor and TV host Tomohisa Yamashita's absolutely abhorrent character. But amongst Hideaki Itō's crooked cop looking to shape up and Murakami's' Norwegian Wood' and 'Pacific Rim' standout Rinko Kikuchi giving a name to all these victims buried in her newspapers margins, it's a relatively new actor that lifts everything from this all star cast of famous faces and valued veterans. Show Kasamatsu steals his first name with slicked back Yak' stylings, but a beating heart under all that bloodshed of a lost soul looking for more. Walking the precariously thin line between cooking a romantic midnight snack with delicacy. Shirtless and baring all the arms of his gangsterdom devotion. Or refusing to hit, whilst trying to get out the ones that can, whilst the going is still good. Even killing in the name of love. There's blood on his hands, but it's in a shade of Valentines. And that may seem funny, but when that smile cracks beneath a steely exterior that cracks its neckbone after cracking a classic "If I told you, I'd have to kill you" joke, you can see his heart. It's not just charm, charisma matching with Elgort, in-sync like BSB. This guys no imitator, creating his own masterpiece. He's the Japanese star of the future with more movies this year than the moves he makes in this show. About to be as famous as Tokyo. Now here's one vice we hope they pick up again. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Outsider', 'The Journalist', 'Black Rain'. 

REVIEW: C'MON, C'MON

4/5

C'mon Away With Me.

108 Mins. Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Gaby Hoffmann, Scoot McNairy, Molly Webster & Woody Norman. Director: Mike Mills. 

Motoring through the Rock City of Detroit like the piston of Mark Wahlberg in a 'Four Brothers', 'Trouble Man' Winter. Heading to the City of Angels like all those with fallen wings in Hollywood. California dreaming on a nearby beach that lulls them like a gondola in Venice. Believing in Oakland like a Warrior for all those from the Golden State who make a splash. Making way to New York, New York because one visit isn't enough in the city that never sleeps, from Central Park sunrises to the blinking lights of Times Square on New Year as the ball drops. All to the Mardi Gras of Crescent City of New Orleans that's endured more than corona. It survived Katrina. Black and white postcards are the perfect portrait and all we get right now in this socially isolated time of quarantined travel. But the classic cinematography in moving monochrome of Mike Mills will take you back there like 'C'mon, C'mon'. Especially for this writer who moving Far East took one last trip to New York City (that really does have a finality to it right now) for the fourth of July 2019. The warm sepia like glow I felt when seeing this new New York skyline developing all the time in the frame of Mills' wide lens was then filled with melancholy. As I wanted to try and express in whispers to the friend sat next to me and share. For they felt the same way the first time they took a bite out of the Big Apple too. I get it now. I get why my parents took us to Paris so many times as children. Like I did when I reignited the romance of the city with an old flame years back. Mum and Dad just wanted us to feel what they felt when they shined in the City of Light. And boy did it all shine. I get it now and it just took that one moment. Oh, how I miss them back like home like I hope I could come for Christmas this year. C'mon.

Because this movie. Starring fresh off an Oscar for being one of the best as 'The Joker' in the pack and introducing the inspired British 'Troy' and 'Poldark' (it must be the hair) BBC actor Woody Norman to American audiences, is a lyrical love letter to not just these lost to most of us cities, but family. Especially of the unspoken bond and untold story of brother and sister. Oh, how I miss mine too. My idol. This one being with the great Gabby Hoffman. Currently giving the Buss family a run for their Showtime Hollywood money in HBO and Adam Mckay's purple and controversial 'Winning Time-The Rise Of The Lakers'. But I just knew I recognised this famous face from somewhere. More than the standard IMDB search. Or what she's known for now ('Girls'), apart from her tenacious talent. It didn't click until it was almost too late. Everyone talks about Culkin 'Home Alone'. But she was the sweet little sister in 'Uncle Buck' (not to mention a child star in 'Field Of Dreams' and 'Sleepless In Seattle' too) who didn't want her hair to be brushed and told Mac to almost both hand to both cheek slapping response that they "should really start brushing (their) teeth." You can't deny the eyes that are the soul. And holding ours in this timeless family film she felt like part of ours. In our living rooms with John Candy and them since we were babies every Christmas until now. Even on Zoom. No wonder this film feels like family. It beats with the heart of my own. Hoffman threatens to steal the show even from a career best Phoenix and a rising Norman on his adolescent acting breakout. That's when classic character actor Scoot McNairy (who has being doing this now for longer than you think) isn't showing how much he can make the most of even spare screen time to change a narratives course. Movies like this mine more meaning than what an Oscars envelope says, with a human touch. That's all become a happy slapping farce now. It's all just buzz to feed a few weeks of social media anyway. Real art is storytold forever. And this one as classic as its colourless picture is in an Academy of its own.

'Parasite'. 'Logan'. 'Mad Max'. They've all given us their black and white versions in rich texture to get back to the raw nature of straight storytelling. The former dual Oscar winner even giving you different camera angels for a different, more insightful look into what's really going on. But this one roams on its own like 'Roma'. Originally this way, even though we may want to see a version in living colour one day. The Fun Lovin' Criminals once gave us a classic New York aura album called 'Come Find Yourself'. And coming of age this is exactly what 'C'mon, C'mon' does. Mike Mills has been doing this since he was a 'Beginner'. Whether it's with '20th Century Women' (and surely planting a seed with great director Greta Gerwig) or performing it over 25 minutes from cradle to grave with the amazing Alicia Vikander ('I Am Easy To Find') on YouTube (and surely planting a black and white seed with this, c'mon). Joaquin Phoenix is all about this too. Whether telling you 'I'm Not There'. Or being 'The Master' of his surroundings. Even next to another Hoffman in the late, great Philip. And now we get to see what Woody is really made of in all his childlike wonder and marvellous mischief. But the best camera trick this monochrome movie plays is not in style, but substance. And a boom mic like an outtake. Seeing Phoenix tour America with a child (and the magnificent Molly Webster) in tow like he was raising Arizona, we get to see real and raw interviews with the youth of today. That is all profound and powerful, no false note anywhere. What more can you expect from movies from the amazing A24 production company? It's the real beat of humanity in this passion project from Mills that is more than just what fills a film schedule now it's made its way to the Spring of Japan here, far from its fall Western release. But just like a late review. Real movies need to be seen, heard and talked about in all forms. Like this one's laced up promotion partnership with Converse. C'mon. Why are you still reading and not watching this? C'mon, c'mon, c'mon. Knock, knock on the kitchen table. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: '20th Century Women', 'The Lost Daughter', 'Gifted'. 

TV REVIEW: PEACEMAKER - Season 1

4/5

Make Peace, Not War. 

8 Episodes: Starring John Cena, Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma, Chukwudi Iwuji, Jennifer Holland, Steve Agee & Robert Patrick. Created By: James Gunn. 

Time to make peace. Even if John Cena's 'Peacemaker' promotion tweet alluding to the Russia/Ukraine war was as ill-advised as his 'F9' apology to China in Mandarin for calling Taiwan a country. The peace we need to see in the world right now with the right justice served is separate to a damn comic book show. Especially one spun-off from 'The Suicide Squad' Summer smash movie from 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' marvel James Gunn, switching to DC like alternating currents. One focussed on a punishing anti-hero who cherishes peace with all his heart. No matter "how many men, women and children (he) has to kill to get it." This is all in shockingly bad taste unless you keep the real world and the comic-book one separate. We can promote peace, but don't act like this lovable chode character is the only hope like Luke Skywalker. But my apologies, I know both times John's intentions were dear. The former wrestler turned actual actor (see him switch the nitrous on the 'Fast and Furious' franchise as Vin Diesel's brother after the fallout with The Rock) just made a mistake or two like we all do in this social media world of tweet like no one's scrolling (but they do...and they screenshot. Especially if you're a star). I'm sorry again for the lateness in this review were the post pandemic cinema crowd has stayed at home for more shows on the small screen medium than there were before the COVID curtains came down in theatres. HBO Max throwing its silver dome, toilet seat, skull cap into the Netflix, Disney Plus and Amazon Prime real estate for streaming services ring. Not only with this, but the forthcoming Colin Farrell 'Penguin' series spinning off from 'The Batman' movie and that epic bat and bird car chase people did flock to the multiplex to see. Hey, I've been a little busy! What else do you expect when each week we have new 'Moon Knight' from Marvel with thesps Oscar Isaac and Ethan Hawke, 'Tokyo Vice' for this "gaijin" living in Japan, 'Winning Time: The Rise Of The Lakers' for this fan who bleeds purple and gold and who was sick like LeBron for all the losing this year and the final season of 'Atlanta' for more FX (the middle two also being Max originals for your Home Box Office). I haven't even watched the last season of 'Peaky Blinders' yet (because, Japan). But there's so much more under this hat. 

Gunn(ing) for the canon, you know what to expect from cult comic favourite James in all his volumes. From the M.C.U. to the DC Extended Universe that has more graphic novel variants than the Strange tales the good Doctor of Marvel is spinning in this multi-verse. Sick soundtracks for one. And there is so much cock rock for your jock strap here you can perm your hair off the sonic booms of the sound waves themselves. And how about that title sequence of classic choreography with everyone dancing like a 'Family Guy' tangent. We could write a whole review on this in neon light, until the best Eagle since Eddie, Eagly flaps it's wings like Nelly in front of the man who carries a desert eagle like an Eastwood magnum. All to the tune of Norwegian metal band Wig Wam's 'Do You Want To Taste It' (hell yeah...erm). The f### yeah bravado of team America hasn't sounded this good since The Diplomats 'Built This City' off a Starship sample. But rocking and rolling in ABA colours, spit and polish and biceps bigger than continents. Armed with more one-liners than memes as he drops F-bombs like haymakers. Cena, who has been an amazing actor ever since he told Tina Fey his safe word was "keep going", is classic as Peacemaker. Even if half the time you can't see him under that colander. But strain and you'll recognise. I mean with arms like that, who else is it gone to be? Drax?! He's the Invisible Man. Didn't you see him in the Elisabeth Moss movie. Still, seriously though, this series is more than bro bravado and flexing action in great American trailer trash. There's a heart at the core of this season that feels untimely until you realise that's not just tears of laughter falling down your face. Even a classic cameo (or two) can't compare to the substance that lies behind James Gunn's signature style that shoots to thrill like AC for DC and this iron helmeted man. 

Vigilantes, this is a hit, man. And we aren't just saying our peace as we meet our maker. How about his costumed (anti)hero BFF? I mean, after Eagly, sorry. 'Harry Potter's' Cormac and Michael Bay's '13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers Of Benghazi' actor Freddie Stroma is a storm as Vigilante...yep, that's actually his name. Just wait until you call the rest of the roll. 'Orange Is The New Black' and Broadway 'The Color Purple' star Danielle Brooks is the real showstopper here. Whilst Netflix Barack Obama movie 'Barry', 'John Wick: Chapter 2', 'News Of The World' and forthcoming 'Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3' actor Chukwudi Iwuji lays down even more layers as the head honcho. But it's Jennifer Holland who really steals the show. The 'American Pie' and 'Brightburn' (remember? The what if Superman was a prick movie) star showing this isn't an example of Adam Sandler giving all his friends work in movies, but a real bonafide star in her own right and making. Setting her own stage under the spotlight. She returns after 'The Suicide Squad' with Steve Agee of 'The Sarah Silverman Program', who also stood in for Sly Stallone's King Shark like Nanue, Nanue. Hilarious here. But on this judgement day, it's 'T2' star Robert Patrick who really dials this to 1000. Screw Spinal Tap's 11. There may be some salt and pepper in the liquid metal, but it still forms perfectly into the ultimate villain. The sins of the father. Wrestling with black comedy and amazing action, this is John Cena's new signature move. Even if the satire of this bald eagle of an American flag has some bullet holes in it. There's a beating heart that revives itself like so many a fallen hero. "Peacemaker?! What a joke!" Far from it. Peace, motherf#####s! TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Suicide Squad', 'F9', 'Guardians Of The Galaxy'. 

REVIEW: DEATH ON THE NILE

3.5/5

Nile's Out.

127 Mins. Starring: Tom Bateman, Annette Bening, Kenneth Branagh, Russell Brand, Ali Fazal, Dawn French, Gal Gadot, Armie Hammer, Rose Leslie, Emma Mackey, Sophie Okonedo, Jennifer Saunders & Letitia Wright. Director: Kenneth Branagh. 

ALL ABOARD! Well...almost all. Cancel culture isn't running out of steam in Hollywood, and here's one you can call by his name. But between looking at all the grey areas of the Will Smith slap heard all around the social media world in black and white and figuring out which member of the new 'Harry Potter' franchise is fantastic and which is a beast, it's all getting exhausting. Especially when we write to celebrate entertainment, not pick it apart like the 'Speakeasy' of Ronny Chieng's latest Netflix special that takes it to those finding flaws with something made out of joy says. Also, just like with a house of falling cards, one man shouldn't stop the whole show when other innocent parties have given their all to creating this craft. And we aren't just talking about the Hollywood elite, but all the departments in all their designs behind the scenes. Even if this man is Kevin Spacey. Or Armie Hammer. Accused of not only sexual assault, but cannabalism?! Yes the 'Call Me By Your Name' and 'The Social Network' dual star is a talented actor, but this next to Weinstein is the worst case yet. Disney didn't even have the 'All The Money In The World' dollars to digitally replace Armie. Taking a hammer and nail to this like when said Ridley Scott movie replaced Spacey with the late, great Christopher Plummer of 'Knives Out' fame and an Oscar nomination. So even the posters bore Hammer's name and likeness as this COVID cancelled cruise finally made it's way to cinematic shores before heading for port in the bays of Disney +. Where we now find it in Japan after giving it a wide social distance berth in theatres. We can wait a few weeks. Especially with Japanese movie release dates. We've been late already. It seems like a sign of the apocalypse that there's an Oscar nominated movie that's been out for months starring one of the Haim sisters (Alana) and I STILL haven't seen it. Like one adapted from a Murakami short story (the Oscar winning 'Drive My Car') I said should have been a movie years ago (but they only have subtitles here for Hollywood movies. I learnt that the hard way watching the international '355'. I have no chance with 'Coda'). But fear not, here's a PSA. PTA's 'Licorice Pizza' comes out in the Far East ON JULY THE FIRST!?! That's further back than my hairline. We learnt from the 'The King's Man' and Wes Anderson's 'The French Dispatch of the Liberty Kansas Evening Sun' report burning and fooling us twice. We love cinema and literally going to the cinema, but to pay all that buck and risk even more. Just for it to be on the streaming service as soon as it's off the big-screens?! Nah! Like Bush said, "you can't get fooled again." But add a nah for avoiding this epic ensemble that has so many players in they had to put them all in alphabetical order to keep top-billing and egos in check. Even if French will always go with Saunders like birds of a feather...or was that 'Absolutely Fabulous'? Wait...that was Joanna Lumley! See how confusing it all gets these days? 

Mighty 'Thor' director and literally Shakespearean actor ('All Is True'), Kenneth Branagh should be in the time of his life. His beautiful black and white look of his 'Belfast' upbringing was a critics choice with Oscar nominated Academy acclaim, if anyone can remember anything else about that ceremony this year. 'The Snyder Cut' of 'Justice League' could have won Best Picture (we still love it though) and no one would have bat (pun intended) an eye-lid. But COVID and controversy dulled the hull of the pyramid scheme of this 'Death On The Nile' directed sequel, playing the moustachio Poirot again, like the slick sleuth of 'Knives Out' (one last time, we still feel this Rian Johnson franchise has missed a trick in not calling the sequel 'Knives In' like a 'Now You See Me', 'Now You Don't' sequel. But then again we did bottle headlining this review 'Nile's Blame', Frasier fans) did his original Agatha Christie murder mystery adaption train trip, 'Murder On The Orient Express'. All whilst lead and forthcoming 'Cleopatra' star Gal Gadot with an Easter Egg, no stranger to her (un)fair share of criticism lately (imagine) and her 'Wonder Woman 1984' sequel has caught flack off Marvel 'Moon Knight' director Mohamed Diab for its inaccurate portrayals of Egypt. But still, all of this aside as 'Death' sets sail on stormy seas, navigating its way past all this chop, it's still a worthy sequel that we should have made the Titanic sized IMAX journey to see. Although this movie is also being taken to town for its waterlogged CGI (although all we see is postcard perfect, lavish locations). What more can you expect from a movie pandemic delayed somewhere between the runtime of the latest Bond with 'No Time To Die' and this May's 'Maverick' Tom Cruise that it may as well have been made when the first 'Top Gun' took flight? And then Letitia Wright spoke out against the vaccine. But at this point if you're letting Kyrie Irving play, I'd let her too. As long as she's not spreading misinformation like a Joe Rogan, she's entitled to her own opinion and reason why, as long as she keeps everyone else safe. We don't fear the factor of her being the rightful heir to the late, great Chadwick Boseman's 'Black Panther' throne. Middle finger and all. 

Wish for the Nile like Aladdin, following the 1937 book and the movie back in '78. Because Branagh brings brilliant backstory in beautiful black and white. With lights, camera direction and acting action to why Poirot has his symbolic lip scarf, as iconic as Sherlock's deerstalker, my dear. But as all is fair in love and war and with a passenger list like this there was always going to be a stowaway or two, let's take roll alphabetically like the cast-list billing. Although we're going to stop on the Hammer time if you don't mind. After finding love on the 'Orient Express' with 'Star Wars' Rey of light Daisy Ridley, Tom Bateman is back as Bouc, Poirot's trusted companion. Stealing the show from all these famous faces with his heart. But it's legend Annette Bening as his domineering mother who really dominates and elevates the class of these proceedings. Of course this is Kenneth Branagh's voyage...and he matches blockbuster alongside indie like story direction with delightful fun, twirling his moustache once again as he must ask everyone a question once more. Accented in a moment of perfect shot taking in the sphinx and pyramid behind, just like the last supper like interrogation one from 'Murder' of all the A-list who's who. An almost unrecognisable (at least until he speaks) Russell Brand (suited and booted) is one of the best things about this picture. And even without Judi Dench in this sequel, 'Victoria and Abdul' and Bollywood legend Ali Fazal gives this story of murder and motive in all its dark decadence so much more depth on these high seas. The most fond and favourable thing about all of this down the Nile however is the reunion of Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders (alphabet be damned. They have to go together. It's all love). Whilst Gadot is a born international Hollywood star. The wonder like the movie before '1984' back in the starlet time were her classic Hollywoodland style belongs. 'Downton Abbey' and 'Game Of Thrones' famous face Rose Leslie really makes the big-screen transition with ease like she did with significant roles in the cult Vin Diesel ('The Last Witch Hunter') and Anya Taylor-Joy ('Morgan') movies. Love is a dangerous thing though. And jilted lover Emma Mackey of Netflix's 'Sex Education' will show you just how much a heart breaks with sympathy for the devil of a demonised woman. But it's the instantly recognisable, CBE, Tony Award winning, British actress, Sophie Okonedo of the incredible 'Hotel Rwanda' who will really take your heart under the spotlight as an accented American jazz singer. Lastly, but by no means least of all, Leititia Wright with more than a 'Small Axe' to grind is wonderful and a throwback herself. Showing the stars of the future know how to act like the icons of all amongst all these legends. Produced from the Ridley Scott 'House Of Gucci', this murderous mystery of a movie really picks up steam in the terrific third-act at gun point. Ratched all the way up after some time were you may wish to retire to your cabin. But that's just the investigatory nature of these slow burner matinee like Sunday mid-morning movies. With murder in the mist, crimson smoke billows out of this ships chimney like the blood in the water that is making all the sharks come, as the Nile turns into the red, dead sea. Clouding controversy may have made its way through this death boat like COVID through the cruise ship that harboured here in Yokohama before the planets pandemic begun, but 'Death On A Nile' still doesn't run aground. It stays the course in a time were it's hard for any of us to. And that makes it worth the trip. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Murder On The Orient Express', 'Knives Out', 'Belfast'. 

REVIEW: FANTASTIC BEASTS - THE SECRETS OF DUMBLEDORE

 

3.5/5

Wand-a-vision.

142 Mins. Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law, Ezra Miller, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol, Callum Turner, Jessica Williams & Mads Mikkelsen. Director: David Yates. 

It's a Mads Wizarding World now the Danish Mikkelsen 'Hannibal' villain of 'Casino Royale' 007 fame has replaced Johnny Depp after the 'Crimes of Grindelwald' (Mads already has wand experience after his spell with 'Doctor Strange' before all this madness).  All for another round of the Harry Potter prequel franchise 'Fantastic Beasts' from the scripts of J.K. Rowling. But production of these powerful potions have been mired by more controversy and constraints than that coiled wire of unbreakable blood oath wrapped around Dumbledore's arm...talk about secrets. If you thought COVID-19 was bad enough for the movie business (Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun' sequel over 35 years in the making 'Maverick' finally lands next month after taking a two year detour), how about cancel culture? After losing his libel case to The Sun of all damn newspapers (they called him a "wife beater"), Johnny Depp stepped down (put this in inverted commas if you see fit) from 'The Secrets Of Dumbledore' after his big reveal at the end of the fresh out the suitcase 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them' put a spell on audiences worldwide. Just when we were getting over him technically "replacing" the great Colin Farrell from the first film (ah well, he has a new Penguin suit to wear for a season or two, waddling in cuffed kind). Now it seems like there will be a new iteration of Grindelwald each film like when Depp, Farrell and Dumbledore himself Jude Law fondly filled in for the late, great Heath Ledger lost before the end of Terry Gilliam's 'The Imaginarium Of Doctor Parnassus'. But Mads is maddening and brutally brilliant as a vile villain who shows veins of humanity with the heart of matters and a gentlemen's conversation over high tea with the bearded Albus. Akin to Dr. Watson himself's stirring 'Sherlock Holmes' film off of Guy Ritchie's Baker Street, tapping the porcelain twice like toast. 

Losing Depp would be a deep blow if it wasn't for the magnificent Mikkelsen. Who even has something in GQ to say to the 'Morbius' methods of  villains who take their crutches to the toilets as part of the act (you'll settle for a wheelchair?! We like you, buddy, but do you know how insulting that is on so many levels?). Pausing production more than this movie ("it's bull####!"). But it seems that Johnny has been blackballed by Hollywood for longer than this since his private life with Amber Heard came to the tabloid surface and the social media court of public opinion. Remember the sequel poster? It all started around the departure time of  'Belfast's' own Kenneth Branagh's take on Agatha Christie's 'Murder On The Orient Express', playing Poirot. Yet they can have a potential rapist and cannibal(?!) on their 'Death On The Nile' journey. There's not much studios can do in the face of all these popping up problems and backlash. Who knows who will be the villain tomorrow. Especially when most productions wrapped before the pandemic. But in this boy that cried wolf time of McCarthyism amongst those who should be rightfully brought to justice, plain and simple (Weinstein, Spacey). The one sized fits all approach is one that changes with who's looking in the mirror of this cinematic game of costume play. Depp who used to delight in showing up at the Magic Kingdom and even local schools in character, dressed up as Captain Jack Sparrow for the fans is sunk now like 'Pirates Of The Caribbean'. His career is over faster than a speeding Smith slap (we've touched on that). Disney is done and Warner Bros too. Yet, there was two sides to this story...and abuse. You heard about Amber keeping her 'Aquaman' gig right?! Different strokes an all that, folks. And how about Ezra Miller?! They're here in this movie despite their Flash like descent into troubled territory and their own alleged abusive and criminal behaviour. This being more recent, mind. They put in another dark and decadent performance here, with 'Azkaban' arresting shades. But what about the real human horrors behind the wand or what for someone else would be bars? They don't have to turn theirs in, but shouldn't they at least be held accountable if everyone else is? Right now Warner Bros has put this wizard and whizzing superhero and their projects on pause.. 

J.K. Rowling. There...I said it. Don't Chappelle me. I'm not 'Team TERF' (never that), but this is all getting ridiculous. We're getting Carano canned now for opinions...never mind how outrageous they are. This reminds me of the time rumour had Terrence Howard losing his 'Iron Man' spot as War Machine because he didn't support Barack Obama. This is pre-Trump, he wasn't MAGA or anything. Of course not. Obama just apparently wasn't for him. Its his opinion. It might not be the best one in mine, but it still belongs to him. Sure the Rowling row, rolling in the deep, argues that if our free speech is causing abuse then it's caustic and needs to be dealt with like Roald Dahl's (still an amazing author, who even brings heart to 'War'. Read all about it and the self portrait on the cover) family apologising. But how about the death threat just made against her from a member of the trans community? Everyone is still flocking to Hogwarts in this pick and choose your poison time and we really didn't want to make this whole review or Fantastic film about this. Let's make the only crime remaining being the time it took me to actually start reading the Harry Potter books. Twenty years and two girlfriends. I haven't even seen the movies, shocker alert! But I'm not cheating...these are prequels. Still, when J.K. doesn't even get invited to the reunion of the very thing she created. Shunned by the stars she helped make. Things begin to become a joke like downing too much Giggle Water (we see you, Jacob). What she said is wrong, sure. But the response has been wrong at times too. Like Mads said we need to have an "adult conversation." And this one just doesn't want to join in on the Rowling witch-hunt, just like Jason Isaacs doesn't want to. What's so wrong with a little peace, love and understanding...on all sides? We can't move on, if we don't allow people the time to grow. With us...together. As for this fantabulous 'Fantastic' film in beast mode, as I arrive in a tweed coat this Summer eve like I'm actually in the movie. Rowling's slick script is given an amazing assist by Potter adapter Steve Kloves. Adapted with epic direction from Michael Keato...I'm sorry David Yates. The man who finished the last half of Harry strong just like he does in this spin-off, franchise, prequel picture's cinematic and climatic third act. The great Jude Law. Never looking better in his bowler hat, waistcoat and slicked back hair. Bringing bruised soul to this disorder and a love even a China ban can't break. Shares an equal billing here with the lovable, albeit awkward Newt of Eddie Redmayne. Still pining over the literally moving photos (my favourite thing about this wizardly place) on his case like the stick man creatures that inhabit it, Niffler nibbling for spare pocket change. And for the love of God, there is something here cuter than the deer of Japan's Nara Park that bow for biscuits too. For 'Queen and Country' and worthy of 'The Crown', Callum Turner is brilliant as Newt's brother to boot. Especially when they hilariously crab walk together in a daring dance that will scorpion sting your funny bone. But it's 'The Daily Show' and '2 Dope Queens' star Jessica Williams that well and truly steals the show from everyone in this ensemble. Even the loving return of the crowning Queenie (Alison Sudol) and the fabulous baker boy Dan Fogler and his Brooklyn bakery in the heart of DUMBO. Under that iconic, cobbled, old time look of the Manhattan Bridge across the water. That time we saw him in the rain left us like that crying meme. Don't play with our emotions again like this. In a world of muggles (that "most dangerous" line from the first film resonates even more now), this child seems cursed. But it still has a few tricks up its sleeve before the curtain. A few more points for Hufflepuff and a heavenly Gregory Porter number. Two more movies, too. You're still a Wizard, Eddie. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them', 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald', 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner Of Azkaban'.

STAND-UP REVIEW: RONNY CHIENG - SPEAKEASY

4/5

Amazing Comedian Destroys Bull#### Blogger.

"People reviewing comedy. Can you imagine that? Who the f### reviews comedy?" Erm. "Who wakes up in the morning and goes,"hey! You know what I'm going to do today with my limited time on this planet?" Ahh...this is awkward! But I get it. And it's hilarious. It's more than a joke too like Netflix. There's meaning here. Just like why I do this for both of my readers. I'm an a##hole. There's no debate there. And I'm unqualified, but I'm not trying to push my unsolicited opinion on anyone. Or pick apart something made with joy. I'm trying to also spread the same happiness on a platform as  small as my...erm (let's just leave that there, shall we?), whilst trying to write something much more than a weekly review for social media traction. I couldn't care less about that. I don't bait for clicks. I'm a 36 year old man. How many people read my last article? I'm not even bothered to check, but I bet you could count them on one middle finger. The same middle finger I hold up to toxic Twitter takes which are trolling and destroying everything from movies in this Marvel age of social media spoilers, to my love for the game more than this Lakers lost season. All because Dave from Delaware decided everyone needed to hear this "breaking news" from him like this isn't still CNN. And apparently when it comes to winning NBA games he's an expert in that too...coach just hasn't put him in it yet. Nah! I don't subscribe to all that. I've always loved entertainment and appreciated it (especially in these times) for what it's worth. Even when others fall off bands and stars at a social media distance in an instance when it's no longer "in", only to come back with the Twitter tribute when they pass away. Don't let it pass you by. I entered (not infiltrated. This is not MI5) this bull#### writing game to promote positivity for those who have been heroes, friends and confidants when few else aside from family have been and try to share the joy and recommendation. A little like what NBA and Laker legend turned writer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar does on his Weekend Boost for his Substack account. But for the love of God, please don't think I'm comparing myself to Cap. I just do this for the love. The love of what I'm writing about. That's why my profile picture would rather share my thinning bald patch then my actual face. I'm not hiding behind a keyboard. This just isn't about me. But before I truly sound like this is. Let's move on. But Ronny, I'm sorry. This is for you. I'd tell you to unfollow me. But you don't follow me anyway. Why? Because I'm a blogger...nobody does. Yelp! 

After attending the ceremony for the coming out part of 'Crazy Rich Asians', 'The Daily Show's' very own Ronny Chieng has been on a tear. Like when he ripped into Autumn, last fall. All the way to the scented candles. The 'Asian Comedian Destroys America' special in 2019 was maybe one of the last times we could laugh unadulterated before the planets pandemic. We demanded another like "AMAZON NOW!" And now after his optimal angles were almost unrecognisable in Marvel's 'The Legend Of The Ten Rings' (his slick combed, trademark hair traded for some George Clinton funk), he even destroyed Shang-Chi's back like Harvard's Jeremy Lin did his ankles "FOR THE COMMUNITY"!! His YouTube special 'Takes Chinatown' with Netflix the perfect precursor to all this. This being his 'Speakeasy' special on Netflix that does anything but talk tenderly. Taking it to critics who want to find fault with everything, live from their Mum's basement (hey! I don't want to find fault with everything). But a month after the 'Baby Cobra' and 'Hard Knock Wife' of Ali the 'Don Wong' gave us her latest, greatest special for the streaming service, Chieng has more than point to poke at those who prod. "If you look for flaws, you're going to find flaws", he says and he's right. And those flaws? We all have 'em! That's what makes us who we are and that's the beauty of life. His hilarious take on reviewing someone giving birth reminds me of when I told a friend that all these actors and singers who he s###'s on don't go to his job and say, "I wouldn't hold that broom that way. It's not as good as your old stuff. Your first sweep. Three stars." Because these days everyone's a critic, even friends talking, texting or tweeting. The same goes for those trying to destroy each others character. The amount of times I'm about to see a movie, listen to an album, read a book, or watch a King (a KING!) play and everyone's like, it's, he's s###. Like you're not watching one of the GOAT's not blubbering around on some fake Chaplin 'ish. My fellow critics (well...I'm really not one. I don't write to fight this like some white saviour bollocks. I write to celebrate what I love. Sorry to my subscribers. I'll send two fruit baskets in the mail), don't be offended. He'd give you your ten pounds back too in a hilarious, symmetrical bit...but he's well past that. Like Charlie XCX's t-shirt says, "they don't make statues for critics", my fellow morons. 

Will yourself through your own hubris if you're offended, because between a rock and a hard handed place, this is comedy gold. Besides, what you gonna do? Get up on stage and slap him?! I think not. Hi hecklers! The game has changed now. And comedians are going to stand up for sticking to their guns. It wasn't cool when Dave Chappelle did it in the face of cancel culture last fall, but now he's paved the way for the likes of Ronny who thanks Dave again in credits and stands by his hero. All in a time were the new 'Fantastic Beasts' movie comes out this weekend, as the 'Harry Potter' franchise continues to makes money off J.K. Rowling's stories (even if her opinions are outrageous) whilst practically hiding the writer they didn't invite to the Hogwarts reunion in the same way they blackballed Johnny Depp. But Ezra Miller still has their wand? No matter what you think about any of them, there's hypocrisy here. You can't deny it. So f### it! Deal with what Chieng has to say, because this Brit gets what he says when he goes off on the United Kingdom (but f### Brexit...you know he actually doesn't like it, right?). While the "so American" response to the vaccine is so on point like the needle you really shouldn't be afraid of for the greater good in this masked, mass debate. After all...it's just a little prick. And put yours away after your kind act because when Chieng compares men treating women like vending machines for sex, with coins of "kindness", this is when he really gets into the heart of matters with so much bruising for those bull#### egos from a soulful performer hidden behind sarcasm and "unfollow me" mock angry energy. He's got a right to be mad, the world has gone to hell in a handbasket. But walking hand-in-hand with the one he loves to this beautiful 'Speakeasy' like the ones you find in every corner of the streets of the real New York. Bringing us back to those old Hong Kong cinema memories like Netflix's 20202 'Tigertail' (not that Baskin bull####). The Malaysian, white suit and black bow-tie looking the 'Spectre' spectacle of Daniel Craig's James Bond has a license to kill it with these jokes, as Henry Golding now has some 007 competition. This is a classic. To paraphrase Sinatra somewhat in these neon lights, "Chinatown, that's my kind of town." Live from the Big Apple the 'Godzilla vs Kong' star destroys America again, but this time it goes down easy. Speak on it! I'd give this ten stars if I could. You know? Just like Mr. Bean. GOAT. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Ronny Chieng: Asian Comedian Destroys America', 'Ronny Chieng: Takes Chinatown', 'Ali Wong: Don Wong'. 

REVIEW: NIGHTMARE ALLEY

3.5/5

The Power Of The Dog.

150 Mins. Starring: Bradley Cooper, Cate Blanchett, Toni Collette, Willem Dafoe, Richard Jenkins, Rooney Mara, Ron Perlman, Mary Steenburgen, Clifton Collins Jr., Holt McCallany & David Strathairn. Director: Guillermo del Toro. 

A nightmare on noir street. Guillermo del Toro's latest movie. A remake of the 1947 movie 'Nightmare Alley', adapted from William Lindsay Gresham's novel of the the same name a year prior was nominated for a Best Picture Academy Award last week, despite box office and popular critical consensus. But no one is going to remember that from this year's Oscars. We've had enough of talking about what they won't forget. Know this though, despite what people say, the great Guillermo's new movie is not the 'Nightmare' that some people are calling it. The shape of this is that it is just taking on too much water. With an all star cast as bloated as the runtime which in this pandemic plant panicked cinema crowd is going to take a lot to get bums in seats. How about Hollywood heartthrob Bradley Cooper? Coming out of the shadows of some old fashioned showbiz scandal out of Hollywood that glossed over the fact that this 'A Star Is Born' showcased his triple-threat talents of acting, directing and making music as an accomplished singer and axeman. But still even his multi-faceted talents are going to have a hard time having you stay with him as a sleazy character whose snake oil isn't charming anyone...or at least the best part of everyone. Especially as the actor has unfairly garnered that reputation in real life. That's what you get when you're so good at your profession playing them, but how is that just? Even without Ally in 'Alley', it's still a dream to hang with Mr. Cooper, even if that tarot card is going to turn him all the way upside down. 

Roll up, roll up to the latest out the labyrinth of del Toro's mind before he shows us real Pan in this falls 'Pinocchio' stop-motion for a boy who just wanted to be forever young and as human as Peter. Peaked with crimson and with a 'Hellboy' to boot, this is rich and cinematic. Carnival lights shining through all this decadent and dark noir. It looks the period piece part and it certainly runs in a cinematic circus of parlour tricks, but sadly we live in an age were people are more concerned about the bright lights of their phones than the tricks of the trade of classic cinema and Americana. But don't call shenanigans, this throwback is still a testament to what folks came out to see and called entertainment. Even if the sly nature of it will have you looking at it side-eyed with deep mistrust. It's not just today were we are packed to the big top with cynicism. But perhaps this film really does belong in a different time like its setting. Back then it would have made a killing. Today at least we and the Academy can recognise it for what it is. A rich reason why the Best Picture race this year was choked full of classics that it was hard to watch them all like last years several streaming site entries with cinemas closed due to corona. And that's before we even get into the passed over snubs like the 'Passing' fancy of truly old cinematic feel. Albeit forlorn with a message that still isn't paid attention to today. Whether 'Nightmare Alley' is a cautionary tale or is just to dark for the light of the day is up to you. But like 'Water For Elephants' this shares strands with Hugh Jackman's 'Greatest Showman'. He was just too charming to play the crooked P. T. Barnum that we missed the point. Making money off the back of others whose confidence you have sold down the river, makes you far from the greatest. And it all comes back around in this hoopla. Leave it up to a last shot cameo to knock that notion back before the bittersweet irony and aftertaste of the last laugh. That's just the show man. 

Cooper compels, but without a class cast behind him to work off he would be sinkin' soon. No matter how sneaky his carny character. Matched wit for deception and deception for wit with Cate Blanchett's perfect psychologist and all the manners of her mind. This megastar in all her superpowered wattage belongs in this era from the classic Hollywood looks of the ruling Australia, to the Marylin hair of the bombshell age. But the brain trust of this accomplished actress shines like 'Blue Jasmine'. This is the same star that literally destroys Thor's Asgard like 'Ragnarok' in her downtime just for kicks. But for the price of salt it's her reunion with 'Carol' co-star Rooney Mara that's worth the admittance fee, even if fleeting. They still look part of the same time. And Mara the standout in the haunting 'A Ghost Story' is the soulful spirit of this picture, despite being further down on the cast list than she deserves. There's just too many performers in this spectacle. Like the first act owned by the great Toni Colette that 'Hereditary' runs in the family of the travelling circus. Like the no need for brass, meat grinding knuckles of strong man 'Hellboy' Ron Perlman (a certain someone would never have run up on him), or an underused but undeniable Clifton Collins Jr. Character acting (which is severely undervalued in this bright lights industry) at its finest and the 'Goodnight and Good Luck' of opening act show stealer David Strathairn as the sauce of this subplot. We still can't get over his heartbreakingly beautiful LCD Soundsystem, 'Black Mirror' like music video with Sissy Spacek. Oh baby! Not to mention the Goblin of 'The Lighthouse' icon Willem Dafoe gobbling up the melodramatic scenery beautifully, delivering exposition like he does his "roll up, roll up" carnival promotion to the wallpaper pasted poster. But in part two of this movie it's the great Richard Jenkins, flanked by the meaty 'Mindhunter' tough love of right hand man Holy McCallany that make this movie so much more, literally raising the stakes for all the chips. And let's not forget Jenkins' 'Step Brothers' love of Mary Steenburgen. In a brief, but a brutally beautiful cameo of sorts. Pivotal to the plot that ticks and rocks, tipping the scales like Ethan Hawke's cane in 'Moon Knight' like day and night. Now how's that for calling role to this main attraction? Sure, the box office may have failed to garner a crowd, but we all know that doesn't make or break the true meaning of why a movie matters. Perhaps like 'Parasite' the black and white version a 'Vision Of Darkness and Light' would shed some on the bigger picture of this best one. Feast your eyes on what needs to be seen to be believed and see it for yourself, folks. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Shape Of Water', 'Water For Elephants', 'The Greatest Showman'. 

REVIEW: MORBIUS

3/5

The Bat Man.

104 Mins. Starring: Jared Leto, Matt Smith, Adria Arjona, Jared Harris, Al Madrigal & Tyrese Gibson. Director: Daniel Espinosa. 

Morbid fascination has people with their fangs out ready to sink their teeth into something on social media, as soon as critics smell the blood of an attack of the killer Rotten Tomatoes score. 16% may feel like my phone battery half of the time, but it's not a deserving score for the new Marvel 'Morbius' anti-hero movie starring Jared Leto in full ("I'm") 'Venom' form. Neither is the Razzie Jared just won for his unrecognisable but pitch perfect turn in Ridley Scott's 'House Of Gucci' movie that also robbed Lady Gaga. And let's not get started on the Skip Bayless like undue hate for 'Trainwalk' and Lakers star LeBron James and his 'New Legacy' with 'Space Jam'. This is akin to the undeserved hate the 'Dallas Buyers Club' Oscar winner had to deal with when it came to his modern Joker out a pack of Nicholson's, Ledger's, Phoenix's and what's to come next. It was just a different hand, he played it well (despite the damaging tattoo's) and he also got cut. And sadly we'll probably not get to see his and David Ayer's full take. Although with 'The Snyder Cut' of the redeemed 'Justice League' movie we did get a new look and a scene stealing post-credits punch which shows us just want it would be like if Jared's Joker and Ben Affleck's vastly underrated Batman (no matter how good Robert Pattinson is) danced in the pale moonlight with Heath bittersweet, "I think you and I are destined to do this forever" odes. Despite fans wanting to treat this killed joke like Christian Bale in 'American Psycho'. But even if they don't restore the verse, Leto still gets another chapter in the comic-book movie story, albeit on the darker side like the Bane of Tom Hardy's life. 

Dark Knight themes and more bat's than a Yankee dugout circle this bat man who like a Peter (tingle) Parker Spidey-sense can see in sonar ("like a submarine Mr. Wayne"). And in a Pattinson like 'Twilight' there is more at stake with this vamping undead movie than just saying it sucks. Sure just like all that 'Venom' CGI carnage, these Sony property superhero movies that always have more heart in backstory feel like the old Marvel movies of the early 2000's. But for all those who loved those 'Fantastic Four' films as well as the 'X-Men', it's a nostalgic treat. Even if you have to suspend your special effects as well as comic disbelief. Besides, there's still beauty in "bad" movies. Especially ones that feel like B ones. Marvel Studios are about to deal with Marhershala Ali's 'Blade' (with a vocal cameo in the 'Eternals' movie that stirred. Not to mention crossover potential here) for the first time since those Wesley Snipes movies were the only Marvel movies that had any business in Hollywood...literally too. But this vampire is as sharp as pointed teeth too. Even if there have been more cuts than a katana now 'Doctor Strange' botched the 'Multi-Verse'. It's been long enough, but damn we still won't spoil how monumental a Marvel movie 'Spider-Man: No Way Home' is. Par exemple, my sisters fiancée watched it like yesterday and had no idea about you know what. Why? He doesn't use social media. Pay heed. Sure, the bat like villain who cameos here has already been trailer revealed, but that doesn't mean we have to join in the fun like those clawing at this movie with Buffy villain fingernails. But all of this sandbox sharing back and forth between Sony and the M.C.U. is going to slay, slay, slay like Christmas Day for a spell. Let's just say this, it's worth sticking around for the two post-credits scenes. But that's all folks, don't wait until the lights go on...this isn't a club. Just like it's worth sticking around with Leto as 'Morbius', despite those with garlic in their breath wanting to show him a cross that's more pointed than one you'd hang above your door. Invite him in, because he's a requiem for a new nightmare down the same alley del Toro took us down for the shape of an Oscar nominated Best Picture that still got critically crucified, but probably should have found its better place next to the horrors of Halloween. 

COVID-19 has just put a stop to so many things like that in movies, let alone the waiting, watching world. Like the Keanu Reeves renaissance of originally having 'The Matrix' and 'John Wick' 4 come out on the same damn day. It even took us awhile to Bond, but Maverick Tom Cruise's 'Top Gun' looks to finally take flight this Summer season of blockbuster. This Jekyll and Hyde story has taken on so much water in terms of time and transformation, it's no wonder it feels like a 'New Mutant' with cool references to schools for gifted youngsters and that thing in San Francisco for your post Easter eggs. And those who believe cornavirus came from a bat won't like our lead tinkering with those winged creatures here like he was about to make it his next takeout meal. Still the only thing that bites here is the question of what has to chew on me to make me have the physique of Tom Holland's spider or Jared Leto who certainly must be a vampire like Reeves, because he's no 50 year old man. Answer...a full-time gym membership. The fast paced fighting here is not for the faint of heart. But it certainly leaves a cool neon trail flying through the New York skylines. From prison break orange to all the purple that for vampires is the new black. A crowning achievement for forthcoming 'Game Of Thrones' prequel star Matt Smith. The good doctor who is certainly having the time of his cinematic life. Even with the forewarning and foreboding from his father in law of 'The Crown' and Sherlock sleuth villain Jared Harris. The cutting room floor robbing him of one of this movies best moral dilemmas and lines. Whilst the 'Good Omens' of 'Pacific Rim: Uprising' and Netflix '6 Underground' star Adria Arjona give this walking dead movie a beating heart worth saving. Meanwhile there's a couple of cops hot on this vampires smokey trail like Shea Whigham and Bill Camp on 'The Joker's' case in that villain movie. 'Black and Blue' star Tyrese Gibson is so good at delivering detective exposition as we investigate further. Adding another franchise to the singer/songwriters utility belt of 'Transformers' and 'Fast and Furious' franchises. And the golden tickets he's giving fans right now is just the grace of his generosity personified. But we want to see what happened to that mechanical arm cut for the Afghan soldiers back story. And if you need some humour in this dark movie, alongside Gibson's gravitas, then how about the night schooling of 'The Daily Show' star Al Madrigal playing good cop, funny cop on this beat? It's all 'Easy Money' for 'Safe House' and 'Life' (the 2017 one with Ryan Reynolds and Jake Gyllenhaal, not the 2015 movie that starred Robert Pattinson and Dane DeHaan as James Dean) director Daniel Espinosa and the epic talent of what he does in the shadows. The vultures may be swooping in for this bat, but it won't cower under a cowl. They're just picking at bones. Once 'Morbius' is fully fleshed out with the 'Blade' of some 'Venom' by his side, then he'll be a real marvel. Now that's my kind of carnage. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

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

DOCUMENTARY REVIEW: THE ANDY WARHOL DIARIES

4/5

Soup Of The Day.

6 Episodes. Narrated By: Bill Irwin. Produced By: Maya E. Rudolph. Executive Producer: Ryan Murphy. Directed By: Andrew Rossi. 

1968. Andy Warhol is shot. And the shooting sends shock waves that reverberate around the city and industry, let alone the world, like John Lennon at Dakota. A place where the pop artist would later party with the late, great Beatle. You don't have to imagine, because Warhol thankfully survived unlike tragically our dear John. Only to succumb to cardiac arrhythmia after gall bladder surgery in 1987. Almost 20 years later, but all too soon, aged 58. Although some ignorantly believe, still to this day, that it was due to AIDS. During a crisis that took far too many of Andy's friends and luminaries like the great New York street artist of pop that could move a culture like the before his time in more ways than one, Keith Haring (these guys are more than the fitting tributes of UNIQLO t-shirts. No matter how many people (like me) eat them up like hamburger meat). All before Magic Johnson changed the game and how we see HIV and AIDS with his life affirming press conference, retiring from the Hollywood Showtime of the Los Angeles Lakers. Something you'll be able to see right now dramatised in 'The Big Short' of 'Vice' director Adam Mckay's HBO series 'Winning Time' based on Jeff Pearlman's brilliant book of basketball and the 'Rise Of The Lakers'. After Warhol's shooting, he survived and thrived despite the depression of mental and physical pain. Working through his art and writing diaries like the rose of another late, great in Tupac Shakur, taking it back to his concrete roots. 'The Andy Warhol Diaries' by Pat Hackett revealed more about the man after his death than any of the influence in his most intimate of self portraits and now the 'Hollywood' 'American Crime Story' of Ryan Murphy has produced a new six-part documentary series for Netflix with Maya E. Rudolph (not the hilarious actress and singing sensation (see Bill lose his mind in reaction to Sofia Coppola's 'A Very Murray Christmas', but another legacy making New York talent) based on that book. Directed by 'Page One: Inside The New York Times' writer Andrew Rossi and narrated with A.I. Andy like realism by the TARS of 'Interstellar' Bill Irwin for all of you to love the alien like Bowie's Ziggy in Stardust. 

"I'm just a freak," Andy sadly says. Lamenting a lost love in the most personal of pages and prose. A creep like Radiohead, we've all felt this at times. As this android voice paranoid with pain doesn't feel the same. As a matter of fact he wasn't. There was no one like Warhol. Not you Kanye, or even a Jay-Z lyric "already"....but we love the Basquiat hair like this documentary collabo with Jean-Michel and his groundbreaking redefining artwork and that of the same he did in concert with Andy. Warhol would love the artificial intelligence of Irwin's digital but still nuanced narration of inspiration. Even if it does take us viewers as listeners a little longer to get used to. Haunting us like the 'Nature Boy' theme from the abstract gallery of titles in cherry blossom shocking pink amongst other palettes by the great Nat King Cole. Staying with you like the last, lasting lyrics, "the greatest thing you'll ever learn. Is just to love and be loved in return" (HEED!). This is a blondie who once painted Debbie Harry on a computer, after hearing for years from a young man called Steve Jobs. Warhol may have hated the result like what lay beneath his iconic wig. But like the spectacles the same, this glare behind the glasses shows the real Andrew in all his manner and musings like Bill Hader's hilarious, but also heartfelt inspired impression of him in 'Men In Black III'. It shows the dents in the Campbell soup tin. The everything must go dollars off a Brillo pad. The layers behind all that vibrant paint. The morning after a Studio 54 party. And just like Ewan McGregor in Netflix's hallmark 'Halston' series. Just how much of a miserables bastard Victor Hugo really was. All to the New York times that you will read all about in these diaries like Scorsese and Fran Lebowitz pretending it's a city. 

WhitneyxWarhol. 'The Philosophy' of Andy. There's two of my introductions. But whatever your canvas. From Marylin, to Brando, to Elvis. His life, like looking at one of his paintings is delved into deeply with feeling. All for a man reduced to a critical caricature by some and not the thoughtful perceptions he brought to his sought after, perplexing work of some of the most richest and famous faces. They may talk about what sort of darkness would evoke the images of his suicide series. I'd ask them what sort of heart striking a chord really considers them in their last moments. Art is something to hang on display, to look pretty as a picture. It's something to say in a stirring statement that speaks louder than words. And this man knew how to mix things up, no watercolor. But this is about the man behind the art. And plenty of the New York, New York and Hollywood elite have plenty to say about a man who used to respond to his critics who diminished him by saying they were right with enough aloof coolness of character as Man in Black Johnny Cash replying to comments that he looked like he was going to a funeral by saying, "maybe I am." Everyone from Rob Lowe (you need to see him 'Attack The Hollywood Cliché' for another Netflix special, Jerry Hall like a Rolling Stone and Mr. Chow with the best line of the show about the difference between a master and a grandmaster all out in their two cents for Mr. 3 cents off. Don't believe us? Like Bruno Mars, "just watch". On the phone and behind the Dylan shades in his own words here is the portrait of the man that was more than self as he took on America's fast food consumer culture before this binge age of streaming and Tik Tok's around a never ending clock. You may say he'd thrive today. I say he still does. Because like the artists that took us from the Van Gogh's and Dali's before him to the Banksy's after said, people don't die. "They just go uptown. To Bloomingdales. They just take longer to get back." Now wouldn't that be serendipity like John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale? Pick me up something nice. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Abstract: The Art Of Design', 'Halston', 'Pretend It's A City'.