REVIEW: VIOLENT NIGHT

 

3.5/5

'Tis The Season To Be Stranger.

112 Mins. Starring: David Harbour, John Leguizamo, Alex Hassell, Alexis Louder, Edi Patterson, Cam Gigandet, Leah Brady & Beverly D'Angelo. Director: Tommy Wirkola. 

Silent night. Holy f###. All is not calm. All is set alight with violence. And we aren't just talking about the Boxing Day sales. It may be beginning to look a lot less like Christmas, as trees begin to come down like when your prized pup looks for his present under Douglas Fir. But 'tis the season to still get it in the jollies. Especially whipped by the dogs of 'John Wick' (executive producer David Leitch stunting) and some other 'Nobody' producers (Kelly McCormick and Guy Danella anything but the title of the Bob Odenkirk movie, instead absolutely everything) truly making 'Violent Night' something. A Yuletide hit with an egg nog twist. This Santa, breaking bad's baubles, proves 'Die Hard' is a Christmas movie. All whilst paying pointed homage to 'Home Alone'. Get ready to clap those cheeks like you were under the mistletoe with the one you hold dear.

Richard Attenborough. Billy Bob Thornton. Kurt Russell. Tim Allen with more 'Santa Clauses' (and a new six streamer series on Disney + for the holidays) than a golden tinsel handcuff deal. They've all played Santa like the beard pulled from your local grotto. But the thing is, it's time to get stranger like a Joker bank job. As Hopper himself David Harbour plays this St. John Nick. A whole new hero, fresh off dad bod' flexing as the Red Guardian Russian version of Captain America in the solo 'Black Widow' movie. Harbouring one of his beat best roles yet, Saint David is perfect. Packing festive one-liners for your stockings with plenty of punch. Delivering "seasons beatings" to your fireplace porch. Choking goons out with what you wrap around your tree, turning candy sticks to stakes and sticking some coal like dynamite right up your chimney. Decking their halls, it's clear Harbour and dynamic 'Dead Snow' director Tommy Wirkola ('Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters') are having a blast. And so in turn do we under the tree. 

Playing naughty to Harbour's forever nice as he vows to give us "the worst Christmas ever", we DO need to talk about Bruno, unlike Trevor Noah "attacking" a Silk Sonic Mars at the Grammys. 'Encanto' and 'John Wick' star (and our favourite) John Leguizamo has already played it bad in the legendary 'Carlito's Way' scene stealing and in the iconic grand opera, petrol station owning opening to Baz Luhrmann's 'Romeo + Juliet'. But the 'Chef' star fresh off 'The Menu' of basing his absolutely abhorrent character on Steven Seagal ("the worst person (he's) ever met"), he's one of the best things here this holidays as the big bad. All he wants for Christmas isn't Mariah Carey, but instead the millions of 'The Coal Miner's Daughter', in 'A Streetcar Named Desire' and 'Hair' legend Beverly D'Angelo. No stranger to the 'National Lampoon Vacation's' of holiday movies. 

As do the rest of her pigs in blankets and mince pie greedy list family led by Alex Hassell and his estranged wife Alexis Louder, taking it up a notch as they try to do right by their own immediate family. And a cast of true characters featuring Edi Patterson and Cam Gigandet, who are gloriously entitled decoration like the many mercs who are about to get a star on top of their trees. Thank Santa for festive feeling of next child star Leah Brady with a direct walkie-talkie line to the best Kris Kringle in reindeer years. This is the real deal and with rumors of a Charlize Theron 'Atomic Ms. Claus' (if they will) sequel, you can best believe there will be blood...and too much mulled wine. Throwing more than presents up out the sleigh. Ho, ho, huuuuuuh! TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Tinseling: 'Bad Santa', 'Home Alone', 'Die Hard'. 

TV REVIEW: THE OLD MAN - Season 1

4/5

The Old Man and the CIA. 

7 Episodes. Starring: Jeff Bridges, John Lithgow, E.J. Bonilla, Bill Heck, Leem Lubany, Alia Shawkat, Gbenga Akinnagbe & Amy Brenneman. Created By: Jonathan E. Steinberg & Robert Levine. 

Truer grit. I guess you can teach an old dog new 'John Wick' tricks. In the outstanding opening episode of Season 1 of FX's 'The Old Man', now streaming on Disney +, 'True Grit' and 'Hell Or High Water' legend Jeff Bridges gives it to them like a 'Nobody', now you better call someone else but Saul, as Bob Odenkirk has stopped taking 'Breaking Bad' cases. The Dude, Bridges hasn't looked this youthful since Disney's 'Tron: Legacy' CGI reboot of sorts. And this feels like mere months after he underwent chemotherapy, battling cancer. He may be armed with two dogs unlike Mr. Wick (too soon? This teacher better hide his pencils), but you could hardly tell as this 'Crazy Heart' lays into two heavies like 'The Fisher King' still has a left hook. All in one tremendous, tough take for a daredevil one-shot that even rivals Matthew McConaughey's escape from the hood in 'True Detective'. All for a haunting, waking horror action-thriller that feels akin to the HBO special, all the way down to the title-card and T Bone Burnett soundtrack. And to think this old man began with more nightly visits to the bathroom than...well...me.

Just when you thought this Jonathan E. Steinberg and Robert Levine 'Old Man' based on the Thomas Perry novel of the same name was all about Beau's brother, John Lithgow takes this gripping action-drama back to his 'Cliffhanger' cruel villainy. The '3rd Rock From The Sun' legend who won an Emmy for playing Churchill in 'The Crown' shows everyone who thinks he's "somebody to be f##### with" two fingers as he keeps going through the high water of this hell. Being just as threatening as Bridges, burning from a burner phone outside a remote airport hangar location. Across the wild west American plains, nothing has been this down the barrel scary off a highway (or runway) to hell since a scene stealing hitman Jude Law was hot on the trail in a 'Road To Perdition' pursuit of a mob man Tom Hanks. Right after the great Brit set the table to all this in a classic roadside American diner scene across the table from him. 

After this amazing act, this seven seal of a series has a tough one to follow trying to pass its high bar. But this slow burner with plenty of punch and brutal backstory is setting up the strands for even more as this spider diagram points in the direction of a second season (it was renewed after the premiere. Need we say any more?). One that looks to have even more in the clip like this loaded cast. Bridges or Lithgow, no matter which of 'The Old M(e)n' you're rooting for, it's 'State Of Grace' star Ali Shawkat that steals the show from both men with a perfect performance. The only other thing we can say about her character right now is that she may as well be named Emmy. Because the envelope is hers. On the phone with Jeff, or by dear John's investigatory side she more than holds her own. She makes this show her own. Perhaps the only thing better is the moment the ever cool Bridges loses his on one character and screams, "what the f### are you doing", much in the same way he warned a suit strong arming him in 'The Big Lebowski' that "there's a beverage here." 

Now, what the heck?! Going down smoother than a White Russian, it may not be Josh Brolin as Tommy Lee Jones in 'Men In Black III', but 'The Leftovers' of Bill Heck as a young 'Old Man' has the influence of much more than an inspired impression. Bearded and slicked back like a young Bridges, dude, this man was heartbreakingly beautiful in soul in the Cohen Brothers 'The Ballad Of Buster Scruggs' and here he builds a brilliant background with a standout Leem Lubany of 'Omar' that we need to see more of. The 'Guiding Light' of Brooklyn's own E.J. Bonilla takes meddling to a whole new level, reminding us of that Jon Bernthal punishing passion. Whilst star of HBO's 'The Wire' and 'The Deuce' Gbenga Akinnagbe could hunt anybody down. But for all the actors and the Roman numerals to these chapters it's 'NYPD Blue' and 'Judging Amy's' Amy Brenneman who has our heart. Reminding us of the 'Daylight' of her 90s golden era classic career (saving everyone from that electric cable with two Timberlands is still tough to boot) as her stirring scenes with Bridges take us back to the 'Heat' of Eady in a Michael Mann movie when Robert De Niro told you it wasn't just one night to him. There's still time and this old man with a gun lives to fight another day as the show goes on. These old dogs are still having their day. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'True Detective', 'True Grit', 'The Old Man & The Gun'.

TV REVIEW: THE SANTA CLAUSES - Season 1

3/5

Ho, Ho, Home Improvements For The Holidays.

6 Episodes. Starring: Tim Allen, Elizabeth Mitchell, Austin Kane, Elizabeth Allen-Dick, Matilda Lawler, Devin Bright, Rupali Redd & Kal Penn. Created By: Jack Burditt. 

Ding-dong, merrily on high. Pole-to-pole, why does Tim Allen make so many Santa movies? There's a "clause" in his contract. Ba-dum tss! Dad jokes aside, this is the season for the 'Home Improvement' legend to find his home for the holidays. All as 'Toy Story's' Buzz (Captain America providing the real space commanding voice in this year's 'Lightyear' origin movie story) reunites with Disney who are bringing a plus to some big sequels to their hallmark classics on their Netflix noodling streaming service (see the live-action 'Pinocchio' with the wood of Woody, Tom Hanks, or Guillermo del Toro's out the cabinet). An Amy Adams 'Enchanted' sequel for those 'Disenchanted' between all that Marvel and Star Wars shows (hardly). 'Hocus Pocus 2' this Halloween for your best Bette. They're all here under the tree. Along with a six-part miniseries with Allen as the key to fill your stockings. 

Coming up with more than coal, 'The Santa Clauses' is a sweet six, snow-shooting series complete with the best sack joke out there (and we aren't talking about the touchdown of a classic cameo). Tim Allen is Santa, even more than he is "A TOY!" Even if he is looking to hang up the Kenny Rogers and paunch like all us fair (of hair) to middle ageing men will be resolute in doing with a New Year gym membership after all the trimmings of those turkeys (hand holding a mince pie up). Cue the auditions for the next St. Nick in a homely mini-movie over six shows that even features Allen's own instantly recognizable family (a delightful Dr. Dolittle in Elizabeth Allen-Dick). 

Sleigh, sleigh, slaying it in a 90s (by the fade) Shania Twain tour tee (want), 'Once Upon A Time', 'Lost' and 'ER' star Elizabeth Mitchell makes her name as more than Ms. Claus. Letting her hair down and laying waste to more toy soldiers than Eminem. Forming a formidable one-two Mr. and Mrs. punch with Allen like Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn that's not to be spiked. But it's Ansel Elgort lookalike Austin Kane who is his own man, offering several of this season's (that's just been renewed for next Christmas) sweetest and most sincere moments amongst all the sugar and CG VR moments. 

Drone warfare, elves more lost than a Will Ferrell Buddy and a man hell-bent on making Christmas every day like a prime time Amazon. A lot has changed. But 2006's 'The Escape Clause' (now that's a time longer than 'Avatar' this Christmas) of the trilogy is still in-effect with this sled spin-off. 'Frasier' and 'Modern Family's' own Jack Burditt's Christmas creation sees 'Harold and Kumar' star Kal Penn looking to show run the 'House'. Don't believe the 'Superhuman' can do it? This author and academic lecturer has many hats. Even being a White House staff member of Barack Obama's administration. Now how's THAT for change? But it's the Grace of Rupali Redd as his darling daughter that really steals the show 'tis season. Those are your good tidings. Along with Matilda Lawler's elf that will never stay on the shelf, her sugar plum of Devin Bright's first to call Noel and some fondly familiar faces in the snow globe. Not to mention a hilariously disgruntled elf with the darkest and best line of the series who chugs syrup like it was whiskey. Chomping on candy sticks like cigarettes. You get the puns. They're on repeat here like Christmas songs this time of year. Far from ho, ho, hum, this Santa gets its 'Clause' into you. One that offers a moral message as fond as family just in time for you to make it home for Christmas. See you in a few days, Mum and Dad. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Santa Clause', 'Hocus Pocus 2', 'Disenchanted'. 

REVIEW: AVATAR - THE WAY OF WATER

3.5/5

The Shape Of Water.

192 Mins. Starring: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, Jermaine Clement, Jack Champion, Edie Falco & Kate Winslet. Director: James Cameron. 

Thirteen years after 'Avatar', 'Titanic' cinematic director James Cameron is back to sink everything in the box office this Christmas with his 'The Way Of Water' submerging sequel. Straight out the abyss, opening Pandora's box again on this blue planet. It's been a long time, but these three-hour epics are no mean feat. Now it's 'Judgement Day' on the first of four sequels planned to be released every two years through 2028 from the man who promised he'd be back. 

'The Last Airbender', this 'Avatar' is not. Smurf riffing on themes from 'Dances With Wolves' and 'FernGully: The Last Rainforest', this awakening force of a formidable franchise has something to say about the nature of the natural world around us. Although as much as it is a visual feast, it's starved when it comes to plot and pacing. The actors buried and tangled up in blue and culturally appropriating hair as this waterlogged plot drowns you in a three-hour plus runtime (three more of these?!). Longer than a Stephen King 'Stand', cases of numb-bum beware. Reminding us of the classic quote quipped about the outstanding original. "I cried half-way through 'Avatar'...when I realized there was another hour and a half left!" With that being said, this sequel on the same stranger tide shores of Kevin Costner's 'Waterworld', the 'Thor' like under the sea realms of DC's 'Aquaman' and a mere month ago the start of Namor's Marvel reign in the 'Black Panther' sequel 'Wakanda Forever' still features amazing action. The kind the 'Terminator' director teased in an all night robots vs. humans night war to begin each of his machine movies. 

Raging against the one that's set to cause more deforestation than Arnie's other classic 80s cult franchise starter, the real predators here are humans (such is life). "The Sky People" as we are called (eerily close to SkyNet in Cameron's cinematic dystopic vision). No wonder Sam Worthington and Sigourney Weaver (another 'Alien' member of iconic pre-21'st century science-fiction and cult character creation legend) have converted. Identifying as a kind of blue like Joni Mitchell. 'Avatar' made Sam Worthington a star. The kind they wanted in the next Leo mould. Big budget blockbusters followed. A 'Clash Of The Titans'. A 'Phone Booth' like 'Man On A Ledge', walking the fine line of keeping an almost one-man movie show level. And even a 'Terminator: Salvation' during the beginning of the 10s that was his moment. Worthington has been a little quiet of late, but is still worthy like James or Wayne in this world. Compelling with a fortress of a family quote that will echo in fandom eternity. 

Going green as Gamora in 'Guardians Of The Galaxy'. Channelling the most groundbreaking character in Hollywood and science-fiction as Nyota Uhura in 'Star Trek' (Live Long and Prosper, Nichelle Nichols) and being a beautiful blue in this, Zoe Saldaña is a science-fiction dream. Even zapping more with Ryan Reynolds this year for Netflix's 'The Adam Project.' And she is the epic emotion that really scream sells this series. Showing her true colours under any camouflage. A chameleonic character and ever underrated actor. In this Ripley game, it's great to have the voice of absolute legend Sigourney Weaver back too. Pivotal to the strands of hair-weaving plot, all will be revealed. Just like the formidable foe of 'Don't Breathe's' Stephen Lang. We just wish we got more than an on-screen Giovanni Ribisi. 

As for the new cast. 'Training Day's' Cliff Curtis' voice is undeniable. And 'What We Do In The Shadows' and 'Legion' star Jermaine Clement offers more acting heft. 'The Sopranos' and 'Nurse Jackie' Edie Falco's general gives Lang a run for his semper fi and a 'Titanic' reunion with Kate Winslet holds even more water (save those room on the door for DiCaprio jokes, Brad Pitt had the best one with his Oscars speech). But it's the kids that are more than alright, led by Jack Champion's last name performance as Spider, man. It all opens up more room to breathe over the trilogy of world building underwater movies to come. Bonds with whale like creatures that will touch you more than the outstretched hands (or is that fins? ) of 'Free Willy'. And 'Nothing Is Lost' with a song for The Weeknd to tide you over. Enough islands to spin-off into a series worth of comic-books, video games and shows, 'The Way Of Water' is to set a course that could even flow past all that streaming. Some may merely see this as an avatar to the real world, but the soul of this divine teacher is more a mirror. Reflective like the purest sea. See this. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Avatar', 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever', 'Titanic'. 

BOOK REVIEW: VIOLA DAVIS - FINDING ME: A MEMOIR

4/5

How To Get Away With Your Life.

Finding yourself in this life is hard to do. Especially if you've grown-up under the hand of poverty, physical abuse, racism and sexism. From the home to Hollywood. Still 'Fences', 'How To Get Away With Murder' and 'The Woman King' actress Viola Davis has survived and strived through all this like the Queen that she is. And now living to tell a tale that's still being told, she gives us her Oprah's Book Club choice autobiography 'Finding Me: A Memoir'. Sure, this book came out in April, just as the cherry blossom was dropping. But this fall you can't find a better book (although I'll let you know about 'The Storyteller' Dave Grohl, foo fighting) under your tree come December 25th.

Besides, it's fitting right now like Viola Davis' name in an envelope. EGOT (oh hey, Legend). That's what the first African-American to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting is about to get. The Tony's for 'Fences' and again the Oscar for her Academy Award-winning adaptation of the August Wilson play with Denzel Washington. The Emmy for getting away with murder. And the Grammy to come for this amazing autobiography audiobook that has joined me on the last month of mornings after the announcement of the nominations in November. Viola Davis should read children's books. Her voice is just that important and nurturing to the right side of history we should all be getting on. 

One of the TIME magazine's 100 Most Influential People and number nine on The New York Times' list of the greatest actors of the 21st century is a real hero and real human being whose superpower has headlined everything from DC pictures (the 'Suicide Squad' movies to 'Black Adam'. Still here in the major overhaul of Gunn's ownership (sorry, Supes, that sucks)), to Chadwick Boseman's last movie (Netflix's 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom'. Her show and another from August). Yet her latest ('The Woman King') of a real hero may just be her biggest and best blockbuster. We'd love an expanded epilogue reprise on this film to mark the EG(rammy)OT certification for the Queen who owns the crown like a 'Game Of Thrones'. 

But the ever versatile Viola's most powerful performance may be here in the words she wrote on her life script. Infused with an influence of inspiration and passion. As this is no act. This is the real deal like an uncompromising and unflinching Davis always is. This is real life. Real love like J. Blige. Mother Mary, how this autobiography sings to me. Give her the Grammy already. You want to peak over the 'Fences'? Know what she really thought of 'The Help'? Or the whole, I didn't 'Get Away With Murder', but if I did, here's how I'd have done it from this incredible character, always killing it with her acting? It's all here to read all about like a sandwich board. No Hollywood gossip, just love for the craft. In a world that's strangely devoid of actor autobiographies (Matthew McConaughey's 'Green Lights' of 2020 appearing to be both the most recent and first in absolute years). Musicians, sure. There's lyrics worth. But actors. Maybe they care more than that cliché that says it's all about themselves. 

Not a note of narcissism, the best book and most moving memoir since Michelle Obama's 'Becoming' (I have Barack's waiting for me when I get home this Christmas after a three-year lockdown induced wait) is all about helping others own their story and rise from all that tries to keep them down, just like the epically empowering Viola Davis has done. Want a quotable like the ones from the greatest artists and activists of our time that adorn these chapters? This whole book is full of these affirmations in black and white, like the portrait of this hardcover staring at you with the warmth of reassurance. Sure the musings of working with Meryl Streep and the memories of the late, great Philip Seymour strike a beautiful chord, no doubt. But it's no name-drop. And it's the family matters and those that stir the soul at the heart of this book and life still being lived to the upmost full. From watching her mother being beaten, to living with rats. To wishing upon the love of her life and becoming a star in the Hollywood Hills. It's all from the grace of God, who is a woman after all. One that looks like the same beautiful dark skin that was once told they wouldn't make it in this town. Right before they ran it like those old misogynistic, dinosaur notions out. This woman's work and worth is one of a warrior. You can find it in 'Me'. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Reading: 'Michelle Obama-Becoming', 'Alicia Keys-More Myself: A Journey', 'Matthew McConaughey-Green Lights'. 

REVIEW: GUILLERMO DEL TORO'S PINOCCHIO

4/5

No Strings Attached.

117 Mins. Starring: Ewan McGregor, David Bradley, Gregory Mann, Burn Gorman, Ron Perlman, John Turturro, Finn Wolfhard, Cate Blanchett, Tim Blake Nelson, Christoph Waltz & Tilda Swinton. Director: Guillermo del Toro & Mark Gustafson. 

When you wish upon a stop-motion star, your wildest dreams couldn't even imagine this. Pinocchio may have grown up in the sanded grooves of a small Italian village in Tuscany, but Carlo Collodi's character creation has even made it to the Mickey Magic Kingdom of Disneyland for his timeless adventures. A chip off the old block, many movies have been carved in this pointed nose protagonist's image since his 1883 storybook beginning. There was the first, live-action movie of the silent Italian movie of 1911. The lost one of 1936. And of course Disney's iconic 1940s animation, a tale as old as time. Since then the boy with a nose for lying has appeared in so many movies, Marvel Comics and the 'Shrek' series. Most recently in 2002 and 2012. His career as a character is worth its own documentary movie. But now in 2020, he's in not one, but two mainstream movies. The first came this September in Disney +'s live-action remake starring Tom Hanks, shouting "you are a real boy" to the toy. And now it's time for 'Guillermo Del Toro's Pinocchio'. Splinter splitting your nose for animated tricks down the middle. 

Netflix really have the deals of the fall, under your tree. They're about to open up a 'Glass Onion' with 'Knives Out' mastermind Rian Johnson, but before that the streaming service continues their story with Oscar winning 'The Shape Of Water' director Guillermo del Toro, fresh off his 'Nightmare Alley' Academy Award nominations. Not to mention his gothic horror Halloween special anthology series the 'Cabinet Of Curiosities', opening up even more mesmerizing moments from the wooden chamber. All as in mere months, del Toro confirms himself as not only one of the world’s best creative directors, but also the most versatile. Here, Guillermo's great stop-motion animation classic can even stop Hanks in his tracks. With 'Fantastic Fox' cunning, this is your new 'Nightmare Before Christmas' classic of dark delights for the holidays. Time to polish that Oscar with a sealant like Will Ferrell's gun on 'The Other Guys'. It's worth dropping in a thank-you note to patient, cinematic genius and a labor of love for the craft. 

This musical fantasy film with its own original and outstanding numbers also marks the feature film directorial debut of Mark Gustafson, co-headlining this piece. Based and bonded to Gris Grimly's 2002 novel version of 'The Adventures Of Pinocchio', this is a genuine children's story. Truth be told, no twig. Reimagining the story in 1930's Fascist Italy to devastatingly good effect. Jiminy Crickets, there's heart behind this wood that's anything but hollow and the nuanced, nostalgic narration of 'Obi-Wan' Ewan McGregor as everyone's favourite grasshopper in a top hat. 

Yep, the big guns and friends of the Del Toro's are brought out for the vocal section...you've got to love the acoustics. Young Gregory Mann is the voice of the unforgettable Pinocchio and the beloved, tragic Carlo who came before him. Just finding another (just kidding, that's a reference), 'Game Of Thrones' and 'Harry Potter' legend David Bradley (heartbreaking in 'Harry Brown' with Michael Caine) follows his Annie Award-winning Best Voice in del Toro and 'Netflix's' 'Tales Of Arcadia' animation as the bruised and wood burnt soul of master woodcarver Geppetto. Hallowed and hollowed out in heartbreak. 

'The Dark Knight Rises' and 'Pacific Rim' star Burn Gorman is perfect as the Priest of this piece. But it's the unmistakable voice of 'Hellboy' himself, Ron Perlman as Podestà and the repressed fire of his Candlewick son, coming of age played by Finn Wolfhard of 'Stranger Things' who really strike a chord. Figure in John Turturro's good doctor, frequent collaborator to the Guillermo congregation Tim Blake Nelson (fresh out of the 'Cabinet Of Curiosity') as a flock of rabbits and icons like Cate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton as Spazzatura (hearing Blanchett shriek around in monkey business is the best thing since we saw her as Bob Dylan...but trust me, she's there) and the Wood Sprite respectively and there's magic everywhere, for everyone. From the animation to the narration. But it's 'Inglourious Basterds' and 'Django Unchained' Oscar darling Christoph Waltz who steals the show as the silver tongued devil of Count Volpe. The puppetmaster who is an amazing amalgamation of the sly fox and the original exploitative ringmaster for the greatest show, man. From the circus, to war and so much more meaning, this Moby Dick big 'Pinocchio' may just be the best yet. Guillermo del Toro knows best, and this boy is as real as it gets. There are no strings on this. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Pinocchio (Disney, 2020)', 'Pinocchio (1940)', 'Guillermo Del Toro's Cabinet Of Curiosities'. 

TV REVIEW: GUILLERMO DEL TORO'S CABINET OF CURIOSITIES - Season 1

3.5/5

The Monster, The Witch and The Cabinet.

8 Episodes. Starring: Tim Blake Nelson, David Hewlett, F. Murray Abraham, Glynn Turman, Kate Micucci, Martin Starr, Dan Stevens, Ben Barnes, Crispin Glover, Rupert Grint, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Sofia Boutella, Peter Weller, Essie Davis, Andrew Lincoln & Guillermo del Toro. Created By: Guillermo del Toro. 

A skeleton key will open Guillermo del Toro's 'Cabinet Of Curiosities' on Netflix and your worst nightmares this Halloween (sure, we're a little late in our savouring, anti-binge, season's greetings to you and yours). All for a new streaming service deal for the Oscar winning director of Best Picture 'The Shape Of Water', who also received nominations for his 'Nightmare Alley' ensemble this year. This anthology series like a horror 'Black Mirror' stalking those same streets in the same week his 'Pinocchio' showing stop-motion truth to Disney +'s live-action remake with Tom Hanks is about to carve the animated Academy Award in wood. Producing here (although we miss his direction), del Toro opens each cabinet with his own candid and compelling introduction to each story. As the horror master channels a Jonathan Frakes meme, entering a Jordan Peele 'Twilight Zone'. 

And how about the shuddering stories? Eight wonders of Gothic and Grand Guignol macabre madness. Delicious, sophisticated horror with a bloody twist to each tale. Open del Toro's scripted shorty story of 'Lot 36' to begin this trove with Tim Blake Nelson. No stranger to Netflix anthologies, headlining 'The Ballad Of Buster Scruggs'. Bringing that voice back this week for Showtime's 'George and Tammy', cameoing as Roy Acruff and 'Pinocchio' by the nose too. This man has more character on his face than this anthology has in players. And the shock and awe he evokes in the first of many big reveals will emote your greatest dread.

David Hewlett steals the show in 'Graveyard Rats' as a grave gold digger (but not the marrying kind) who didn't count on some furry friends like Thomas Jane in Stephen King's '1922'. Bur legend F. Murray Abraham opens up even more for a chilling 'Autopsy' with 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom' scene stealer Glynn Turman as a signature sheriff. If anyone's getting an Emmy out of this, it's the versatile voice of Abraham who provided a spiritual boom to Marvel's 'Moon Knight' miniseries next to top-tier thesps Oscar Isaac and Ethan Hawke. That is, unless, Kate Micucci's amazingly awkward sweet soul with an 'Outside' chance, doesn't bag it like the age and social anxiety defying cream pedalled to her by the real housewives of the office and an incredible Dan Stevens, breaking her fourth wall from inside the boob tube (truly 'Mirror'-ish), looking like he just stepped out of a 'Stranger Things' Papa audition in this 80s tale of excess. Even a sweet, supportive 'Spider-Man' sensei husband in Martin Starr can't teach this old dog idea that new tricks are sold like our souls for clicks. Whether it be remotely, or in the new black rectangle control we always hold in our fragile hands.

'Pickman's Model' gives 'The Punisher' Jigsaw of ever handsome Ben Barnes more to piece together before everything pulls him apart than the time he was literally 'The Portrait Of Dorian Gray'. Not to mention the truly terrifying two-fer, most haunted and harrowing moment of this horror spectacle. There's always been something about 'Back To The Future' George McFly, 'The Doors' Andy Warhol and 'American Gods' star Crispin Glover's effects. It truly gets special in the witching hour of Wizarding World 'Harry Potter' King Rupert Grint and his 'Lord Of The Rings: Rings Of Power' best friend Ismael Cruz Córdova in the death dealings of 'Dreams In The Witch House' and some real horrible hocus-pocus. But it's the saturated gold grandeur of separate 'Star Trek' stars Peter Weller ('Into Darkness' and that voice) and Sofia Boutella ('Beyond') that really put the riches spell on you in the grandiose, very 'Black Mirror' reflecting 'Viewing'. Right until some raw reverie is offered to us via an enigmatic Essie Davis and 'Walking Dead' wonder Andrew Lincoln in 'The Murmuring' which will bring new, unsettling meaning to 'The Birds'. Before showing us that horror can have a heart too. A labyrinth of treasure, opened up like a week-by-week advent, we hope del Toro has another cabinet locks down for the next calendar. As our curiosity like DiCaprio's attention in 'Django' is anything but curbed. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Black Mirror', 'Guillermo Del Toro's Pinocchio', 'Nightmare Alley'. 

REVIEW: EMANCIPATION

3.5/5

Will.

132 Mins. Starring: Will Smith, Ben Foster & Charmaine Bingwa. Director: Antoine Fuqua. 

Everyone deserves a second chance, right? So why not Will? Let it be the way. Sure, the slap was awful. The abhorrent expletive shouting after even worse. But the comment Chris Rock made prior at this year's Oscars that will now be remembered for all the wrong reasons (if you want to take a deeper look at an acceptance speech, how about Jessica Chastain's beautiful one, seeing through 'The Eyes Of Tammy Faye'?), didn't exactly smack of sensitivity either. But that's no justification for Will hitting him. Neither is the fact that I remain a huge fan of both men. What remains is we may not forget, but we should have the power to forgive. Especially as Will is searching for ways to make amends. All whilst everyone on social media will claim everything the once most marketable actor in Hollywood and a fond franchise favourite face now does is disingenuous....whether it is, or not. Casting trolling stones and saying everything he does now "slaps" like a tired joke and slung slang. We're all human. And we all make mistakes. Have a look at that man, or woman in the mirror. When was the last time? Unintentional, or not. Now, enough of all this. As all this talk is going on we still have a movie to look at. And it's bigger than all of this. 

'Emancipation' is about the freedom of runaway slave Gordon, known as "whipped Peter" for the famous Harpers Weekly published photograph that shows in all his scars, just how brutal and evil slavery was and is. Again, as a side note, this movie's producer Joey McFarland's intention with bringing said photograph to the film's premiere was much more well-intentioned than those calling him out on social media. But then we're missing the point of this picture again. It's about Gordon's emancipation, not anyone else's. And in an Oscar worthy role for the 'King Richard' Academy Award winner (that will probably be his last for a while with his frankly ridiculous ten year ban from the awards show (how about the Gibson's and Polanski's?)), Smith is more than willing to tell Peter's story. Chameleon hiding behind a character and his accent like he did in 'Ali', (the one that should have really won the award). Will knows the work is about more than him. Especially now, as he raises awareness in the telling of another searing slave story like Steve McQueen's '12 Years A Slave' running for freedom for the classic miniseries 'Roots' and its raw remake.

Desaturated color tells you this story of bravery amongst all the brutality in black and white, classic cinematography. Just like 'The Tragedy Of (Denzel Washington's) Macbeth'. Also on Apple + TV which you can now have for free for two months thanks to 'Will's Gift' (that's the code, people. Sounds like Will Smith and the most genius name since his National Geographic planet series 'Welcome To Earth', now buried on Disney +). Washington, with "U-Haul behind a hearse" reality warned Will at the top of the devil coming for him. But now, in finding himself again and the powerful meaning in his work, Smith channels Denzel's own Oscar 'Glory' with the soldiering of the Lincoln free slaves in 'Training Day' director Antoine Fuqua's formidable film. 'The Equalizer' director (a third one with his good friend is coming in 2023 for all you older 'John Wick' heads) has had a hell of a good year (Hulu's 'Legacy: The True Story Of The La Lakers' showing HBO real 'Winning Time'), and this is one of his best. But even with an always good Ben Foster showing us just how easy it is for him to play it bad, and an inspired introduction to Charmaine Bingwa to counter, 'Emancipation' is more than the Hollywood story that precedes it. It's all about the story of one man who has will. But we're not talking about Smith. It's an amazing performance worthy of acclaim, but this is all about Peter. It's all about Gordon. The real man behind the picture. And that's 'Emancipation's' greatest proclamation. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'King Richard', '12 Years A Slave', 'Glory'. 

COMEDY REVIEW: SEBASTIAN MANISCALCO - IS IT ME?

4/5

The Laugh Pack. 

Is it me? Or is the art of stand-up comedy one of the most underrated and appreciated forms of expression in the entertainment business? We can't help but talk about it. And 'Is It Me' or is Chicago town's own Sebastian Maniscalco one of the best working comedians dropping the mic today (although he's too classy to do that)? The funny man brings a fondness to his relaxed, cool club groove experience. From 'Why Would You Do That', to 'What's Wrong With People'. No need to put a question mark, you know why. You know the reason. Think of it as what it would be like if Huey Morgan from the Fun Lovin' Criminals did stand-up. Who else would roll up his copy of a 'Hamilton' Playbill and use it to drum a Bon Jovi song on his knee? But whoa, okay, we're halfway there, alright? Between trading musings with Jerry Seinfeld or the legend's classic Netflix morning commute 'Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee' (so much so, he was asked back for another ride along), or having the best quip on the Oscar winning 'Green Book' when he gets Viggo Mortensen's watch back and adds a couple of dollars to the asking price for his troubles ("what am I doing this for free?"). 

Now, suited and booted for the strip like Sinatra, Sammy and Dino, Sebastian Maniscalco heads to Las Vegas for his new comedy special 'Is It Me'. His first since 2019's 'Stay Hungry', which we have been like people out here in the desert are thirsty. All for streaming service Netflix who continue to prove they're a joke weeks after Trevor Noah marked his last run on 'The Daily Show' with his new set 'I Wish You Would'. Maniscalo mad man's up in a suit and bow tie that the ol' blue eyes of the Chairman of the Board would be proud of. Oceans urging the crowd to do the same (about 11, 12, or maybe 13 did so). He wants to bring The Rat Pack back. The old Las Vegas for our sins. Because it seems The Strip has been stripped down of what it once was. But it's still a Bellagio abundance of riches and neon, and as Sebastian hits town for his residency he blends black and white (and some hilarious doctored photo-ops) into glorious gold, seamlessly. 

What's the matter with you? Sebastian Maniscalco is back to ask what's wrong with people again. Who would he do anything else? Get your fill, because everybody gets it. Those who wear masks on a little chain like they were old lady glasses. Those who refuse the vaccine because they think its a scam ('I Wish You Would' see Trevor Noah's hilarious, too true take on that too). The Walgreens that provided him with his. And don't get us started on audible people at the urinal, or how long it takes his wife to get out the car (you know what I'm talking about, Dad (love you Mum)). There's even an outrageous bit about one of the kids at his son's school identifying as a lion in one of the best openings to a comedy show in years. And just wait until you hear the kid's name (it ain't Leo). 

Outraged? C'mon! What's wrong with you? Maniscalo makes the most of modern life's ills and draws a fine line between what's right and wrong like Ronny Chieng's 'Speakeasy'. Not going too far for people like many though 'The Closer' Dave Chappelle did. But still keeping it hilariously real. Returning to coffee order's even funnier than Larry David curbing our enthusiasm with "one of those vanilla bull#### things", like he did opening his career on Vince Vaughn's 'Wild West Comedy Tour'. To his hilarious facial expression reactions to those male midriff types that get a little too close to the scones for comfort. The kind of people you find yourself sitting next to on a Greyhound bus (although I'm not much better, riding with Peter Pan from. Manhattan to Boston). And just wait until one of the greatest performers of physical comedy today does an expression of said dog. Man, Windy City's finest knows how to bark with the best of them. Yes, it really is him. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Laugh Longer: 'Sebastian Maniscalco: Stay Hungry', 'Trevor Noah: I Wish You Would', 'Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee'. 

DOCUMENTARY REVIEW: "Sr."

4/5

Iron Heart.

90 Mins. Starring: Robert Downey Jr. & Robert Downey Sr. Director: Chris Smith.

Forgive me for my 'Sr.' moment. Perhaps I shouldn't be reviewing this personal love letter to a father and cinema. A film so close to its subjects hearts that isn't ours to discuss in discourse, even if we blog about the blockbusters. But yet, I feel like documenting this documentary like its father and son do for the heart of what really matters. And the family story that should be shared with others no matter how close to the home or bone. So here it goes. Let's get it all down whilst we can. 

Robert Downey Jr. has always been an amazing artist. Even with the massive Marvel machine he billion dollar bookended by declaring 'I Am Iron Man' and rebooting a superhero franchise of franchises in an Avenging year and same summer the late, great Heath Ledger stole the show in as the Clown Prince of Crime in 'The Dark Knight'. Before his 'Ally McBeal' comeback, you only have to see his Academy Award nominated and BAFTA winning performance as Charlie 'Chaplin' (referenced here in reflection) in the Richard Attenborough picture, giving voice to a truly Hollywood icon. Or hear his album 'The Futurist' like a lip sync to Elton John's 'I Want Love' walking 'round the loneliness of an empty mansion, talking to the walls like Willie Nelson. 

It's clear here that talent doesn't skip a generation as the artist's muse is his father. Robert Downey Sr. The underground New York director as legendary to the city as dolls like Lou Reed or Carole King. The tapestry of this late legend's work even featuring his son's first feature film debut. Being walked on before he stole the show as a child star who asked a bald man if he had any hair you know where. No comment when it comes to that carpet and drapes question. Taking no countercultural prisoners in satire, the weird and wonderful work of the 'Putney Swope' director needs to be revisited, or met for the first time like it is on this Netflix special that out of nowhere may be the best thing the streaming service has done this year and worthy of The Academy in award.

Sobering and moving in beautiful black and white like a Joaquin Phoenix coming of New York age and come find yourself 'C'mon, C'mon'. Or the childhood story of Oscar winning Alfonso Cuarón's 'Roma'. 'Sr.', directed by Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize winner, 'American Movie' director Chris Smith and produced by Junior and his wife and former co-president of Dark Castle Entertainment Susan Downey is a revelation. Documenting the legacy of Robert Senior and his last days as a tale of two Bobbys sees two men muse on love and life and those equal measures they have for each other in boundless beauty. 

It's not the sins of the father that were visited on the son, rather the darkness of an all consuming Hollywood that along with addiction threatened to swallow them up. That was until they both individually and together spat out that notion to live a life as black and white as NYC photos in frames on the walls of your studio apartments. To see both Roberts talking about it all, taking stock and lamenting the loved ones and the parts of themselves they lost along the way is not our story to tell, but theirs as we watch. Besides, the lumps in our collective throats will be too much to talk. 

Dynamite direction and compelling charisma as per the Downey family is on display from the first snake cane, to the last word. And a better post-credit scene than even the M.C.U. And just wait until the third generation gets involved in inspired impression. Because what is a senior without his junior? And what is this Robert Downey Jr. without 'Sr.' Hitting home for the holidays, this is for all the fathers we think of fondly. And to those of us still lucky to be able to call one, it's time to come home this Christmas and make some new memories. Forever. Love you, Pop. It's your birthday this week, and I'm in Japan. But I'll see you in a few weeks, my best friend. Take care. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: Let's take this moment to all explore the vast and fabulous filmography of the late, great Robert Downey Sr. 

REVIEW: BLACK ADAM

4/5

Here Comes The Man In Black.

121 Mins. Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Aldis Hodge, Noah Centineo, Sarah Shahi, Marwan Kenzari, Mohammed Amer, Bodhi Sabongui, Quintessa Swindell & Pierce Brosnan. Director: Jaume Collet-Serra. 

SHAZAM! Utter those immortal words, and you too can smell what The Rock is cooking. Because the DC Comics adaptation of 'Black Adam' starring Dwayne Johnson is far from the fun filled Zachary Levi 'Fury Of The Gods' (can't wait) predecessor. This man in black even cashes in on a lunch tray post-credits cameo in full that the whole world knows about, but we'll never tell. Just like whose the new King of Wakanda like Chadwick forever. All as DC alternate between this Justice Society (that feels like anything but a B team) and the 'Justice League' that began with the Snyder verse of the underrated 'Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice' throw down. 

Now it's the don Johnson who is raising eyebrows as the man with the dark lightning bolt on his chest (expect cool cameos from similar strands of DCEU fare), as the franchise king ('Jumanji', the 'Fast and Furious' and its 'Hobbs and Shaw' spin-off, the WWE) who started his (anti) hero career as 'The Scorpion King' unwraps another classic character. Mere months after voicing a league of DC 'Super Pets'. Here, The Rock's deadpan and brawn makes sure we both see him as a supe and know that through it all and the dark humor, the man who doesn't quite get sarcasm doesn't take himself, or all this too seriously. Dwayne Johnson was born ready and built to be a superhero. So much so, they actually need CGI to reduce his origin story muscles like a Namor bulge. Still, a slim Rock is another man's most glorious gains. Even a Hercules like me. 

And, between The Rock and a hard place, how about all those who try to bench press this man mountain, ready to take his place on the iconic look of a 'Black Adam' throne? The ever great and underrated Aldis Hodge has already played the unsung hero of N.W.A. MC Ren in 'Straight Outta Compton' and the undervalued sports icon and civil rights hero Jim Brown for 'One Night In Miami'. And now he gets to play an unheralded hero but undeniable leader of his union Hawkman. No, he doesn't have a bow and arrow like the 'Hawkeye' holiday special, last Christmas. But he does have gold angel wings and a spinning mace that makes these epic battles in the sandy streets feel like something out of a Zack Snyder '300', let alone a 'Justice League' cut for this society. Not to mention a fortress and flying one. The muscled up and serious straight Hodge plays this with anything but podge. Grounding all these great cape expectations with gravitas. 

'To All The Boys I've Loved Before', Noah Centineo is the Atom Smasher. With some hand me down spanx (and we aren't talking about leather and blue jeans) from a cameo as cool as Michael Douglas being the original Hank Pym for your particles. And a giant look that could even ground the Jonathan MAJORs Kang conquering 'Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania' trailer, man. Add 'Euphoria's' quintessential Quintessa Swindell stirring up a storm as Cyclone and these young guns in these winds of change really bring Alex Ross artwork to classic cinematic life for the modern mainstream. Yet, if fate will have it, it's the good Doctor with a gold dome that even Nova would be jealous of that can write you an even better prescription for the future than Marvel and Benedict Cumberbatch in this 'Multiverse Of Madness'. What could be even more supreme like red clothing than the Strange sorcerer? Well, how about James Bond, 007? As Brosnan, Pierce Brosnan is as wonderful and delightful as Doctor Fate as the moment on this press tour that the 'Goldeneye' discovered that one of his young, Irish interviewers was also from his quaint hometown of Navan. 

But for all the grand goliaths going to great battle here in 'House Of Wax', 'The Shallows' (one post 'Jaws' shark attack that doesn't bite (and I'm including the sequels going back into the water)), 'Jungle Cruise' and Liam Neeson director Jaume Collet-Serra's big and brilliant picture. It's known The Rock, Dwayne Johnson has always been a man of the people like his elbow. The fictional setting of Kahndaq making a stand for real people, cities and nations oppressed today. 'Alias' and 'Person Of Interest' Sarah Shahi simply stuns with all her soul. And 'Aladdin's' Jafar and 'The Old Guard' star Marwan Kenzari continues his complex character ascent, until DC falls into that CGI stock villain trap. But, baby come back, comic Mohammed Amer is truly a stand-up guy. Whilst the real star of the skateboarding show, Bodhi Sabongui will give you those teenage 'Shazam' dreams wanting to be big like Tom Hanks. Now we can only hope this 'Shazam' spin-off makes an exclamation point next to the other lightning bolt in the future. Fate, doesn't make mistakes. I smell lunch cooking in the canteen. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Shazam', 'Man Of Steel', 'The Scorpion King'. 

COMEDY REVIEW: TREVOR NOAH - I WISH YOU WOULD

4/5

Noah's Arc.

It only seems like yesterday when South African superstar comedian Trevor Noah was literally measuring up the great Jon Stewart's desk to succeed him as host of the satirical politics news syndicate, 'The Daily Show'. But here it is, your moment of Zen...it's been almost a decade. Since then, Noah has hosted the Grammys, brought out his own book ('Born A Crime') and had two successful Netflix stand-up specials ('Afraid Of The Dark' and 'Son Of Patricia'), amongst many other achievements that have put him on the world’s map. Now, this November just gone came the third and 'I Wish You Would' watch it. This is why I'm writing this, even though I'm still hearing it in my mind from Ronny Chieng's 'Speakeasy' about reviewing stand-up comedy. Four stars.

Live from what begins as a sign of the times empty Toronto arena for the first time since the pandemic locked us down at a distance, this star doesn't hold back. Bringing everyone together, his accented performance and incredible impressions of all the President's men and people of countries that have been part of his multicultural journey are on point and even reach the Canadian audience ("what are you talking aBOOT, Terrence (and Philip)"). But it's the final monologue in this just shy of 70 minute show of an Indian and a Scotsman that reminds you of those classic Jasper Carrot gold stories that just build and build. 

Noah is clearly shooting for the stars of the greats like Chappelle, Rock or the same Seinfeld he hilariously got in a car and had coffee with in DUMBO, Brooklyn. And like that Netflix show he hits those same marks for the streaming service that shows him, and they are more than just a joke. There's a beautiful message of togetherness in the middle of his coronavirus bit which really hits you with the science. But never fear, he says we all should have one conspiracy theory. But you might be a "gluten" for punishment. Everyone gets it. The mask adverse. The Queen, rolling around with those crown jewels. And even Will Smith gets his licks. But it's all in good nature as Trevor had the 'Emancipation' star on 'The Daily Show' and had a compelling commentary on this situation. 

Looking into the crystal ball of being careful what you wish for (more time at home with the one you love, anyone? Any more?), Noah's precision points prickle with hilarious, "I told you so" moments. So learn German, order Indian food in Scotland and speak ill of the dead...before they're in the grave. But don't fumble for your keys when you run from horror movies. Because we won't tell you the punchline before the jokes on us. Just like it is those who can't take a new 'Little Mermaid' and those called "black Hitler" (is that Kanye?). Just watch this like a 'Confessions' meme. The part two being ushered in for the arc of Noah's post 'Daily' career looks like a successful one. Comedy specials and books two-by-two. And the next thing he hosts, you just know he'll make an impression like Barack Obama. No matter how long the buffering. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Trevor Noah: Son Of Patricia', 'Trevor Noah: Afraid Of The Dark', 'Ronny Chieng: Speakeasy'.