TV REVIEW: BEEF - Season 1

4/5

What's Beef?

10 Episodes. Starring: Ali Wong, Steven Yeun, Joseph Lee, Young Mazino, David Choe, Justin H. Min, Andrew Santino, Ashley Park, Maria Bello & Patti Yasutake. Directed By: Jake Schreier, Lee Sung Jin & Hikari. Created By: Lee Sung Jin. On: Netflix. 

What's beef, as Biggie said? Beef is when you see your enemy in the street...and honk your horn. Beef is when your enemy makes you start your Jeep...and chase right after them. Beef is when I (Ali Wong) see you (Steven Yeun). Guaranteed to be an ICU. One more time, I know I'm slap-dash paraphrasing these Notorious rhymes and lines, but check it. This needs more than two gats to go to sleep (or sleep with) and nobodies moms is safe in these Los Angeles times and crimes streets. 

What's 'Beef' you ask? 'Beef' is the best show on Netflix right now and an Emmy contender for the calendar. And it dropped the same time we were given an animated 'Agent Elvis' kicking ass with that pelvis from Vegas to the moon. Starring no other but Matthew m'f#####g Conaughey. This magnificent miniseries brought to you by the 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' best production company of A24 is the best s### happens, hits the fan and touches everybody drama since Kevin Hart's underrated 'True Story' with Wesley Snipes. This road rage fuelled revenge best served raw is a prime cut. From the middle finger to the metal outset, to the powerhouse penultimate episode and the fever dream of a classic, cinematic conclusion. And to think after that epic end they're cooking up more to binge-eat too. A second serving of 'Beef' is in season. Time to get even more salty. 

Amazing artwork at the blaring outset sketches what's to come in this piece of art series in itself, save those sculptures. All as music from our generation's Smashing Pumpkins (currently crafting a follow-up to their magnum opus over three acts) and Incubus drive home the nostalgia. But pardon me, that's all the style. Here's the substance. 'Beef' is more than two rageaholic's having a coronary over cars. Or the pissing contest of one-upmanship that it looks like on the smooth bathroom floor surface. This dark comedy drama directed by creator Lee Sung Jin, Jake Schreier ('Robert & Frank', 'Paper Towns') and Hikari ('Tokyo Vice') floors is when it comes to the metaphor. An anything but calm meditation on how angry we all are these days at the click of a smartphone button, this really dials into the not so subtle nuances and notes of this modern world gone mad, without dialling anything down. 

The star of countless, stand-up comedies on Netflix, the don Ali Wong already made romantic comedy history with Netflix, Randall Park and a classic cameo from John Wick himself ('Always Be My Maybe'), but now with three classic cuts that rival 'The Rachel' from 'Friends' (looking nothing like a 'Fleabag' pencil, Bob) she shows you how to be iconic. Mutombo wagging her finger with the same cigarette putting out sass of Oscar winner in 'A Most Violent Year' of should have been best pictures. Very disrespectful. Up to bat, 'The Walking Dead' star Steven Yeun ('Minari' and the Murakami adapted 'Burning') also kills it following his Oscar winner. Always bringing to the boiling point what to most of us is merely a simmering rage we all need to turn down in this cautionary tale. They're calling this one of the best shows on television. You don't realize how good it is until Yeun takes you to church like Hozier with heartbreak. 

Masks even more hilarious in the way they look at you than those groovy Halloween ones from 'Baby Driver'. The amazing action of the penultimate episode is reminiscent of the first tense season hood break of 'True Detective'. We feel 'Beef' could introduce different character's story strands over the seasons like that HBO show too. Yet, there's plenty of character here to develop. The art of Joseph Lee's stay at home husband in all his hidden meanings. The scene stealing little brother of Young Mazino and a hand holding out moment that really grabs you. 'Vice' star David Choe's sketchily scary cousin. 'The Umbrella Academy's' Justin H. Min continuing that character type. Comic Andrew Santino getting serious before he gets in a vice grip. 'Emily In Paris' star Ashley Park making her own name alongside the great Maria Bello. And the legend that is 'Star Trek' star Patti Yasutake nursing and mothering us all. 

Representation matters, and 'Beef' brings all that to the table without shoving it down our throats until it's hard to chew on. Bonds over basketball for you Nerf nerds. Real concern over the crypto s###show and cautionary tales of catfishing. This series is seriously on the pulse of what is going on in this world as we speak and tweet. Tit-for-tat, the more 'Beef' escalates the more you'll think this show is one of the greats. Especially when you look what's in the backseat as your hand slaps your head like Homer. Whether scarfing down multiple Burger King's or turning a handgun into a sex toy, this is Yeun and Wong and anger as we've never seen it, or them before. Rich or poor, in sickness or in health, we all have a rage inside, working away like a machine. It's what makes us human and 'Beef' makes us look at the man or woman in the mirror and reflect on our collective pains and problems punctuated by this projection. We'll get to what all that means before this incident of rage runs us right off the road we thought we were sticking on. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Minari', 'Always Be My Maybe', 'True Story'. 

TV REVIEW: AGENT ELVIS - Season 1

3/5

Disgraceland. 

10 Episodes. Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Kaitlin Olson, Johnny Knoxville, Niecy Nash, Tom Kenny, Priscilla Presley & Don Cheadle. Created By: Priscilla Presley, John Eddie & Mike Arnold. On: Netflix. 

Matthew McConaughey is Elvis. We're calling that as one of the best sentences you'll read all year. Not even a full calendar cycle after Baz Luhrmann's gaudy 'Elvis' biopic with Tom Hanks' unreliable Colonel Parker narrator hit glitzy screens. That grand affair made 'Once Upon A Time...In Hollywood' actor Austin Butler a star. And the accent stuck with the Academy Award nominated actor, thank you very much. McConaughey, on the other hand, sticks to his own vocal pitch, alright, alright, alright. Half-sounding a little like The King, but more like the greatest and fondest feeling voice in Tinseltown this side of Morgan Freeman. 

I mean this is the Texan drawl that didn't even need to switch it up for the Big Smoke gangsters of Guy Ritchie's 'The Gentlemen'. It's a blast to hear the southern comfort of McConaughey playing Memphis, Tennessee's very own. Storming the gates of Graceland like The Killers sang about Springsteen doing. Especially when he gets blood on his blue suede shoes, kicking suspicious behinds. Because stepping in a brand-new direction, this is 'Agent Elvis' on the quick draw. From a Las Vegas residency to the freaking moon. 

What the...yeah, you might think that, but think again. Elvis won't be turning in his glamorous grave over this one. This adult animated comedy on Netflix taking cues from agent 'Archer' and Marvel's 'Hit-Monkey' on Hulu (with a chimp that makes that primate look every which way but loose) is created by no other than Priscilla Presley (also voicing her own character) herself, alongside John Eddie (the same one who used to perform with the aforementioned Boss?) and Mike Arnold. So this outrageous black comedy about the rock 'n roll star moonlighting for the U.S. government with all due respect is rooted in exactly that, and some truth to boot. 

Elvis did have a pet chimpanzee called Scatter like his name was Michael. He did know how to karate kick ass. And he also asked former President Nixon to make him a federal agent. There's no scandal here. You only have to watch the mesmerizing movie 'Elvis and Nixon' starring an undeniable Michael Shannon as The King and...erm...let's leave it there, shall we? As for the moon stuff. Peep the plane on your next tour of a celebrity home. Or even better listen to Lo-Fang's out of this world cover of 'Don't Be Cruel' and the album artwork to match. 

Another King may have just swept Memphis out of the building, but this agent of change does nothing to tarnish the sequinned legacy of one of music's greatest of all-time. A showstopper to match the one-man show himself in a white cape, this Netflix show served up at the same time as the 'Beef' of one of this year's best is the fun-filled escape you need when you get home from the work this is not suitable for. The Vietnam War, the Manson family and a whole host of psychedelics takes the stage in this amazing animation which really catches the granite jaw of The King in his best side and light. Not to mention cartoon cameos from the unreal likes of Howard Hughes, Robert Goulet (played perfectly by 'The Hangover's' Ed Helms) and an amazing actor who has played Elvis more times than Vegas. All for a little less conversation and a f###load more action. Now how's that for satisfaction? C'mon, c'mon!

Sure, the great Kaitlin Olson's character looks like Black Widow and 'Jackass' Johnny Knoxville basically plays himself, but they're welcome additions to Elvis' crack team here every 'Cocaine Tuesday'. Don't snort! You won't return this to sender. As are the voices of Niecy Nash, and Tom Kenny going from Spongebob to Scatter (might need that sponge to clean up all that mess after this monkey s###s his squarepants). But it's the foul War Machine and monger of Don Cheadle who steals the show as The Commander. This is not for the feint Marvel of heart. 

Owning it amongst guest stars like Fred Armisen, Craig Robinson, Christina Hendricks, 'Succession's' Kieran Culkin, George Clinton as himself, Simon Pegg as Paul McCartney and even Baz Luhrmann himself with the co-sign. This canon is a fine addition to the legend of Elvis and The King's lore. Presley always wanted to be an agent, and now thanks to his beloved Priscilla, he gets that chance. Critics, stop cryin' all the time. Off the unchained melody, a whole new hound dog has entered the building. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Elvis', 'Archer', 'Hit-Monkey'. 

TV REVIEW: THE CROSSOVER - Season 1

3.5/5

Poetry In Fast Break Motion.

8 Episodes. Starring: Jalyn Hall, Amir O'Neil, Trevor Bush, Deja Monique Cruz, Skyla I'Lece, Elijah Jacob, Sabrina Revelle & Derek Luke. Narrated By: Daveed Diggs. Created By: Kwame Alexander. On: Disney +. 

Answering the call like the one who crossed over to The Hall, Disney + are pushing the rock well like Van Exel (as a 'Crazy In Love' Jay said it best) when it comes to court content. Full-court imPRESSive. They could even match-up with the 'Hustle' of Netflix, 1 through 15, who have been streaming down the floor ever since ESPN led them in 'The Last Dance' of their 30 for 30 Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls documentary when the pandemic hit. Right now, Amazon Studios and Ben Affleck's Artists Equity production about the time Nike made a deal with the other MJ that could walk on 'Air' is hitting prime-time screens. And this is a time that if you want the best drama in a succession of series', all you have to do is tune into the NBA Playoffs. Hoops and Hollywood certainly are mixing in the paint right now, and Disney dribbles between all of that like 'Goofy's Double Dribble' with 'The Crossover'. 

SpringHill to Springfield, this basketball brotherhood can be put into the hardwood highlights Hall of Fame for its special set of skills. Taken from the talents of LeBron James and Maverick Carter's production company, this new legacy shopped to Mickey Mouse is based on creator Kwame Alexander's basketball book of the same name. 'The Crossover' just might be one of the best basketball programs Disney have developed outside their 'Glory Road'. And we're still taken with the hang time of John Stamos' 'Big Shot' girls basketball coach. This eight episode wonder deserves a second season too like real rookies avoiding the sophomore slump. Next to the 'Rise' of Giannis Antetokounmpo in a beautiful biopic and the surprisingly refreshing 'Chang Can Dunk' drama/comedy, 'The Crossover' ensures that Disney doesn't need to stay in their own lane. This IS their lane. 

Poetic and with justice served to the Black History it's built upon, this show won't stop dropping dimes and rhymes. Prose to the pros, taking you to school. Brilliant basketball scenes take the bench to fond family feeling and life lessons to be learnt from the play book drawn up episode titles. Produced and narrated with nuance by that voice of 'Snowpiercer' star Daveed Diggs, this train won't stop. Expect cameos on board too, but not a stop from the LeBron locomotive though. The purple and gold makes an appearance though. Authorized unlike the likeness of HBO's 'Winning Time'. The of these balling brothers is in the Showtime of the Los Angeles Lakers, but before we get to all that, this is a high-school musical. 

Making their moves and their words sing to the nosebleeds, Jalyn Hall and Amir O'Neil are the perfect one-two punch to hit your heart with warmth as they wow the opposition. There's more than defenders standing in their way though, as life takes them out of their comfort zone. 'All American' Hall was heartbreakingly good as Emmett in 'Till' (a story surely you know, but must still see) and O'Neil is about to make April his own as the next teenage phenomenon like Bronny James. They've got plenty of friends in their corner ready to hit it on their behalf. Like the funny and fond Trevor Bush. They'll need it too with the talents of Elijah Jacob standing in their way. 

Love and basketball may also be on the cards with Deja Monique Cruz and Skyla I'Lece. But it's the family matters of Sabrina Revelle and Derek Luke that really hit home. Especially when it comes to the health warning administered. After his 'Independent Spirit Award' winning big-screen opening in Denzel Washington's directorial debut 'Antwone Fisher', Luke has gone on to play Sean 'Puffy' Combs, AKA, Diddy ('Notorious') one of 'Captain America's' Howling Commandos and as part of the team on 'Glory Road'. His star power is enough to make 'The Crossover' a franchise, but it's the team behind him that will take this all the way to a whole new road of glory. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Big Shot', 'Rise', 'Chang Can Dunk'. 

STAND-UP REVIEW: JOHN MULANEY - "BABY J"

4/5

Dear John. 

80 Mins. Starring: John Mulaney. On: Netflix. 

If you thought your locked down 2020 was bad. Spare a thought for comedian and all-round stand-up guy John Mulaney. After an intervention staged by a dozen of his famous friends (no real name-dropping, but thanked and dedicated in friend first name kind), on Zoom no less, John was quarantined in rehab for drug addiction in one hell of a winter coat for the snow. Remarking that the cocaine that rendered him skinny made him look better than all the famous faces circled around him sporting their pandemic beards. Seth Myers looking more like Seth Rogen. And if you think that's an image, picture this, John was late for his own intervention. But now, this is the recovery. Surviving and thriving for his new Netflix special 'Baby J'. 

After being 'Kid Gorgeous' at New York's Radio City Music Hall like a Rockette and giving the streaming service a classic children's show with 'The Sack Lunch Bunch' and Jake Gyllenhaal's legendary musical accompaniment, 'The Comeback Kid' is back. Floppy haired, no GQ gel or fruit loop crazy interview story (read for comedic and also drugs are bad effect here) in a Levine maroon suit, Mulaney has never looked better in Boston's beautiful Symphony Hall. It's a bittersweet affair mixing the brutal with the beautiful, but John does it with verve. Even addressing a grade student in the crowd (we're talking tenth grade people) and hilariously, but also with heart and warnings to be heeding, telling him not to repeat anything he here's tonight in his future actions. 

No B.S., of course darkness is on the cards in this BSO show from the outset as winter snow falls outside. Mulaney muses over which grandparent could go, as hilariously as the time his grandma as told in a seriously good SNL monologue (after a haircut maybe?) let him know that no matter how famous he is, if he wasn't her grandson she wouldn't know who he is. Sorry! That's the only joke we'll spoil, and it wasn't even from this show, but a Saturday Night Live monologue. The jokes in this inspired side of the irreverent classic comedian are on tap for you. For one hour and 20 minutes of candid honesty and compelling hallmarks of a man who hasn't lost a step even if he won't come bounding out on-stage any more. And we all know why that is. 

Slow and steady wins the race, but does John Mulaney need to come out on top as the winner of the title of best comedian? Nope! He already defeated enough demons and next is the Statue of Liberty. Luck has nothing to do with it. Neither does caring what other people think. And that's the real peacemaker like John Cena with a James Gunn desert eagle, this all-American talent knows in this self-obsessed world it's better to take care of yourself and then let everything else follow suit. When he was a kid he craved attention, now, in his grand return, he has it. But he doesn't need it. Even after divorce, drugs and almost death, John Mulaney is still the same 'Baby J' his friends have come to love. Just a little more grown and more mature. Gorgeous has become beautiful, and the kid is alright. Don't call it a comeback. He'll be here for years. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Funny: 'John Mulaney-The Comeback Kid', 'John Mulaney-Kid Gorgeous At Radio City', 'John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch'. 

TV REVIEW: RENNERVATIONS - Season 1

 

4/5

Avengers Reassemble. 

3 Episodes. Starring: Jeremy Renner, Vanessa Hudgens, Sebastián Yatra, Anil Kapoor & Anthony Mackie. Created By: Zach Merck. Watch On: Disney +. 

We now know who the strongest Avenger is. Hawkeye, people. Or better yet, Jeremy Renner. The 'Mission: Impossible' and 'Bourne' star survived a snowplough accident that was almost fatal this winter gone. Thank God and the airlift and medical team. Renner was hit by a 14,300 pound snowcat, suffered blunt chest trauma and broke over 30 bones. He was in a critical condition at the intensive care unit, but now he has returned to recover at home. Currently walking with a cane, this month he stepped out onto the red carpet for the three-episode premiere of his new Disney + show 'Rennervations'. One that will surely see more episodes (like the one due with Anil Kapoor going fourth) and renovations once his wishing well speedy recovery is complete. 

A few falls ago, this Marvel already had a top Disney show with a plus in his coming home for Christmas, 'Hawkeye' holiday special with Hailee Steinfeld. Now he is remodelling with another, all whilst giving Paramount a plus with the 'Mayor Of Kingstown'. Reminding us of the time almost a decade ago when Jeremy scored franchise deals with Marvel, Bourne and Tom Cruise's 'Mission: Impossible'. Not bad for a man whose been laid up for the best part of the first quarter. He's got some famous faces helping him out too, 'High School Musical' star Vanessa Hudgens, singer Sebastián Yatra who brought it with his epic 'Encanto' song, and a familiar hero whose always been by his side. Anthony Mackie, The Falcon turned Captain America who first broke out with Renner in 'The Hurt Locker'. Look for a fun Humvee reunion here. 

But it's the team behind Renner that really makes this show that is like 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition' meets 'Counting Cars' as they Xzibit pimp more large rides than when Otto was the bus driving wheel man on 'The Simpsons'. The mission here on Zach Merck's creative concept of a show is to reimagine and repurpose unique purpose-built vehicles to meet a community's needs. This labour of love, passion project from Renner and his 'Rennervations' team in all their man-hours take them from Chicago to Los Cabos, Mexico and all the way back to Reno (with Rajasthan, India to come too). 

Building mobile music and dance studios. Spearheaded by Renner's love for music (he has his a couple of EPs ('The Medicine', 'Live For Now') and plays the piano perfectly here) and theatre (with a throwback to him playing The Scarecrow in a high-school 'Wizard Of Oz' musical) this is more than just sing and dance. Plugging in and pulling at your heart strings with all its dedication to its destination. One where the American dream is reimagined and redesigned for everyone. All around the world. No matter what they've been through. Because Renner of all people knows what it takes to make it back. Under construction, there's no need for any reservations. 'Rennervations' is the Avengers reassemble we've been waiting for. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Assembly: 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition', 'Counting Cars', 'Hawkeye'. 

SHORT REVIEW: OSWALD THE LUCKY RABBIT

4/5

Rabbit Out The Hat. 

1 Minute. Director: Eric Goldberg. 

94 years is a long time to wait to pull the rabbit out the hat, but this is Disney's anniversary of 100 years of wonder. So what better way to celebrate than to bring back the cartoon creature that was back with them in the salad days when the mouse in the house was whistling whilst he worked as 'Steamboat Willie'? The original classic. I love that Mickey and Minnie literally abuse every part of every animal to make music and the content warning label says, "contains tobacco depictions". No animals were harmed. No mice anyway. 

Now get a horse, or someone with as many carrots as Bugs, because the buzz is back. Lucky for some, 'Oswald The Lucky Rabbit' is back for a beautiful one-minute short, lovingly rendered in the scratchy black and white of the roaring 20s when he made his cinematic debut. And he hasn't changed a bit. Even if this cute character with movable parts like an action figure (just wait until he has a bright idea) will look to some like the Mickey version of what 'The Simpsons' looked like in their first year. Elongated and a little off. But there's nothing wrong with this rabbit though. As iconic as they come. 

This Walt Disney Animated short takes the mouse like critter in shorts to the multiplex where he finally sees his name in bright lights. Not to mention the love of his lif...wait, is that Minnie? Time to steal a kiss. Directed by Eric Goldberg and produced by Dorothy McKim, Oswald still lands like the first time he burst through your fourth wall breaking screen. He's a scream and in this Disney World there's certainly room for everyone. Hand-drawn artistry from the epic era of gold after losing creative control. One minute after almost 100 years doesn't seem like the best luck, but just look. There's a lot you can do in 60 seconds and after this egg-timer alarm bell, you just know Oswald won't be gone again for long. Stretching himself across the screen and onto your sofa like Homer and family. This is not the end. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Shorter Still: 'Steamboat Willie', 'The Band Concert', 'Get A Horse'. 

TV REVIEW: THE MANDALORIAN - Season 3

4/5

The Last Of Us. 

8 Episodes. Starring: Pedro Pascal, Katee Sackhoff, Mercedes Varnado, Simon Kassianides, Tait Fletcher, Katy M. O'Brian, Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, Emily Swallow, Carl Weathers & Grogu. Creator: Jon Favreau. 

This is the way back. For Mandalore. Helmets on. Many 'Solo' Star Wars projects haven't been what critics are looking for, but tell that to 'Andor'. The galaxy far, far away's most accomplished and acclaimed series yet. Deep, diverse and definitive. Now hot on its Disney +, Mickey Mouse shoe heels and all the Marvel to come ('Secret Invasion' is coming like 'The Winter Soldier') comes Lucasfilm's hottest property. 'The Mandalorian' Season 3. Or is it almost four? We would like to call it 'The Mandalorian and The Child' like when The Falcon changed to 'Captain America and The Winter Soldier' for your Western wonder and this quick draw McGraw. 

'Iron Man' chef Jon Favreau really cooked up another classic with this creation. The influence is all around the world as the catchphrase "this is the way" has become the new, "I could do this all day". And they really could, captain my captain. The little Grogu became the best, most Christmas list wished present since the 'Toy Story' of the Lightyear buzz when the first season dropped...and it wasn't even available in half the territories who had him under their tree. He didn't even have a name back then, but we're still sticking with Baby Yoda. There's even a Los Angeles Laker Dennis Rodman like player nicknamed The Vandolorian (defensive stopper Jarred Vanderbilt). Mando is so popular he even hijacked the original Mandalorian's show ('The Book Of Boba Fett') and made it his chrome dome own. 

So what if that heartbreaking Season 2 finale with Mark Hamill looking more like Bucky Barnes than Like Skywalker in CGI is now changed like a force swipe? This is just the way. And it gets us more time with the little one, even if 'The Mandalorian' may want to switch it up a bit going forth. We still can't deny the cuteness overload of this overlord though like a 'Zen-Grogu and Dust Bunnies' beautiful Studio Ghibli crossover animated short. You know what to expect with Favreau's favourite now like the closing credits of classic concept art for your gallery. 

Amazing action. Hilarity and heart not diluting the art. Classic cameos we simply can't spoil (although we have one couple that rocks like flutes in schools, great Scott) like justice for one and the only big bad you need in this blockbuster series that deserves to be on the big-screen like a Netflix 'Luther' or 'Peaky Blinders' (hey that's how Disney and these war of the stars began). Not to mention, epic episodes directed by big names and familiar family members. From Bryce Dallas Howard's best in show, to the creed of Carl Weathers still bringing that 'Predator' Schwarzenegger muscle shake and even more royal regalia (check what's holding up the back of this emperor's new clothes). 

Moving like a Marvel machine with good-looking droids and side quests to boost, the Star Wars spin-offs have more levels on the board than 'Dungeons and Dragons'. Easter Egg paying beautiful homage like a hallmark to H.G. Wells (from 'The War Of The Worlds' to 'The Time Machine') and 'Blade Runner' like '2049' did in classic cyberpunk cities we scoped and scaped with 'Obi-Wan Kenobi'. All on the search for a pit like Lazarus. The kind of pool you might Bruce Wayne taking a dip in. Keaton, Affleck, or Pattinson. Hey, maybe even Clooney. Sure, Beskar may sound more like a car dealership in the North West, but the latest series of 'The Mandalorian' opens up a whole new world for the Disney property. White gloved thumbs up and plus-sized. 

'Ahsoka' looks amazing for this awakening force, but right now the jetpack is still taking off like a Razor Crest. Torching everything in sight. It's a blast, and it's clear 'Narcos' and 'Game Of Thrones' star Pedro Pascal is having the Swayze of his life with this and his game adaptation of 'The Last Of Us', which even against this may be the biggest and best season of this calendar of couch potato art. But like hiding under his hood for redemption, it's not all about him like his villain in 'Wonder Woman 1984'. On his own he is good, but together it could be better. And we now have a whole crew of Mandalorian's base jumping into action with Din Djarin, AKA Mando. 'Battlestar Galactica' and 'Riddick' star Katee Sackhoff steals the show like Mando did from Boba. Showing she could run her own. More than making up for the haywire loss of Gina Carano, this is as much her show as it is the Bounty Hunter. Sackhoff is tougher than the rest, walking in both worlds. 

Even if their faces are shielded in this post-masked up time we have plenty of Mandalorians all giving themselves a voice as iconic as their armour. From MMA fighter to maverick 'Top Guns' with two primed to blast. Mercedes Varnado and Simon Kassianides are back with more screen time previewing their own series and these rebels have their own cause in these clone wars in the stars of stunning set-pieces of aerial assault. But it's the gold of Emily Swallow's Armorer in this nest that really puts the hammer down like Cap asked Thor. Whilst Tait Fletcher' big bastard of a Beskar suited soldier as strong as iron will strike you to your core. 

All as some red chess pieces and troopers bringing more death than a serious storm look to take some knights off the board. Mark the spot with Paul Sun-Hyung's do-gooder X-Wing pilot and both Marvel's 'Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D' and 'Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania' star Katy M. O'Brian adding to more sub-stories and this eight wonder still has a ways to go. Through all the worlds of Jim Henson like creature creations for this never ending story. Now would we be happy if all this led the way to the bounty of yet another season of Mando and Grogu? Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Book Of Boba Fett', 'Andor', 'Zen-Grogu and Dust Bunnies'. 

REVIEW: HALLOWEEN ENDS

3/5

Trick. 

111 Mins. Starring: Jamie Lee Curtis, Andi Matichak, Rohan Campbell, Will Patton, Kyle Richards & James Jude Courtney. Director: David Gordon Green. 

Academy Award-winning Best Picture 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' starring Best Actress Michelle Yeoh has only just come out here in Japan. If you think that's bad, the trilogy and franchise concluding 'Halloween Ends' starring Oscar winning Best Supporting Actress ('EEAAO') Jamie Lee Curtis has finally come out, this Easter. Now, if you think that's bad, actually watch the movie. Just kidding, this 'Halloween' that critics have slashed like tyres or tired genre clichés isn't that bad, like they say. But in terms of epic conclusions, after all these decades, 'Halloween' goes out with a dull thud down the stairs, rather than a trick or treat BANG! Jamie Lee Curtis deserves a better courtesy. Excuse me, Academy Award-winning actress, Jamie Lee. 

'Ends' tries to start something new in its closing chapter and therein lies the rub that scratches and itches at this problem like pronged kitchen utensils making their point. They complained about the fireside beat down in the last movie to our honoured heroes, but no set-piece here blazes quite like that until Laurie Strode and Michael Myers get to have one last dance over John Carpenter's classic keys. All before the pumpkin explodes at midnight in classic titles and this carriage carries away from this Cinderella story with a slashed dress. Toxic masculinity that has been an ever stalking theme in this franchise that cinematically retains its seventies feel is still potent in this narrative like it is in everyday life. And 'Ends' means to make something more of this. All whilst haunting everyone with the idea of fear itself and what it actually does to us like the outstanding, operatic opening to Matt Reeves and Robert Pattinson's 'Batman'. But instead of sticking the landing, it waddles like a penguin after a shocking staircase introduction. Trying to stick everything it throws at the wall. Yet its knife isn't long enough and its blade not as sharp. 

Blunt dull aches aren't all that will stick with you though as this cheap shot to the ribs sometimes goes for the jugular with dramatic results. If only it was as raw and ready as the 2018 reboot that made you forget about all those other sorry sequels, even the Busta Rhymes one, almost twenty years later. This even makes the overkill of 'Halloween Kills' that sidelined Strode senior look like a walk in the park and not a slog to get through. Still, there's a good movie in here somewhere from the 'Undertow' of director David Gordon Green (cue his co-writing with the great Danny McBride of 'Pineapple Express' friendship and fame). You just miss it between all the screams and the stabs out of reach you just hope miss those vital organs. Unlucky for us, this thirteenth movie after the '78 masterpiece is more manslaughter than murder the way it kills it. A Carpenter described "departure" from the others that is more of a love story that will have you demanding for the real Michael Myers to stand up. 

This is no Austin Powers pot of s### coffee though. And the character development of trilogy granddaughter Andi Matichak and 'The Hardy Boys' star Rohan Campbell is real, like the conflicted nature of just what their two hearts mean to this town in shock at all the horror the boogeyman has left in his bloody wake. But you know what you came to the cinema for in this post-pandemic time. What lies behind the mask. The shape of things to come with Laurie and Michael. The greatest hate story ever told. Michael making her his muse for murder. Laurie leaving all that blunderbuss behind, as she stands on her own two, looking back into those hollowed eyes, saying..."trick." It's a treat to watch Curtis giving her all one last time to a role she could do in her sleep. Finally getting an Oscar for another movie and her acting talents all at once. Whilst James Jude Courtney really is the killer inside him. 'Minari' and 'Armageddon' actor Will Patton really is something too and socialite and TV personality Kyle Richards offers bar side counsel as an original survivor to boot. But if this stab in the dark really was the last time one of the greatest horror franchises of all-time comes knocking, we just wish 'Halloween Ends' would have brought more candy to the party. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Halloween (2018)', 'Halloween Kills', 'Everything Everywhere All At Once'. 

REVIEW: EMPIRE OF LIGHT

3.5/5

Blinded By The Light. 

113 Mins. Starring: Olivia Colman, Micheal Ward, Monica Dolan, Tom Brooke, Tanya Moodie, Crystal Clarke, Toby Jones & Colin Firth. Director: Sam Mendes. 

Under this empire of the sun, '1917' and Bond ('Skyfall' and 'Spectre') director Sam Mendes gives us a ticket stub love letter to cinema on the coast of a sleepy seaside town. 'Empire Of Light' illuminates England in the 1980s through the life and times of those who worked behind the screens. Classic cinematography from Mendes who mesmerized us with his one-shot at war gets you in the seats. The sober and stirring story keeps you on the edge throughout. Many of those iconic red pews to the congregation of the church that is cinema have been tipping up for the last time since corona. But with this subtle beauty, Sam gently fights back like only he can. The bright lights that spell out Hollywood like classic theatre red letters also reveal more above the auditorium and through the light that leads to the wonderful workspace that is the perfectionist projectionists room. Setting off fireworks at night like New Year that illuminated all this inspiration and the influence of the big city beyond the sea like a 'Banshee'. 

In this 'Empire' of touching testaments in troubled times, it's 'The Crown' of 'The Favorite' Oscar winner Olivia Colman that compels. Her star power even greater than the wattage that draws you to premieres of 'Chariots Of Fire' like the promise of Laurence Olivier and even Paul McCartney. Shades of 'The Lost Daughter' which she was also astonishingly Oscar overlooked for shadow the 'Light'. Searing in its substance that soars past the slick style scored by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. Forging a formidable filmography, Colman is classic in a chapter of her career that is running towards being the Great British equivalent to the great American film-book of Meryl Streep. She evokes every emotion with nuance and no hint of forced feeling. She's as true as the character's sleeve adorned heart that can't be hidden. You can only adore something and someone of this magnificent magnitude. 

May to December, it's the love she shares with her leading man co-star that really strikes a chord in top billing though. 2020 BAFTA Rising Star Award-winner Micheal Ward has the look of a young Tyrese Gibson when the actor/singer got on a bus and sang about how much he'd always love Coca-Cola. Yet Ward is his own man with his own plan. Get ready to tip your hat to the 'The Old Guard', 'Blue Story' and 'Top Boy' actor who holds his own alongside Olivia and makes you genuinely believe in the beauty of their connection. We can't tell who's the lucky one. Perhaps it's us as cinema goers. From the first time they enter into their new love in this old world you really feel it. For everything it's worth. Micheal and his healing power also helps you through the hurt, as you see the power of perseverance through raw racism and hollow hate from cowards hiding behind the skin of their heads or gang of mods. Not to mention old, entitled customers wanting to eat their fish and chips in a place that's not their business. Yesterday's news like the ignorant opinions of those who believe that because they're white, they're right. That couldn't be further from the truth. But Ward's wonderful role is the real deal. Signed and sealed. 

Lighting up more talent, 'Appropriate Adult' Monica Dolan has a small, but significant role. Whilst 'Sherlock', 'Bodyguard' and 'The Boat That Rocked' actor Tom Brooke feels like the one friend that always has your back in the stabbing pain world of broken hearts and bonds of trust. 'Motherland' Tanya Moodie sets the tone with the moving mothering that defines the "best" that we all say and know to be true when it comes to our own. But from Jane Austen's 'Sanditon', Crystal Clarke's old friend adds even more feeling to this epic empire of emotion. If only the legendary Colin Firth's character wasn't so filthy and abhorrent, but signs of a great actor and all that. Thank the Gods of cinema for 'Detectorist' Toby Jones as the projectionist though. Always a favourite. From 'High Windows' in poetry, to pigeons with broken wings that take flight, it's time to look into the light. Even if Empire missed its illumination at the Kodak Theatre of The Academy Awards (it did rightfully get a cinematography nomination nod mind you), it's time to take your time and get requainted with how we really watch film. Shedding tears at the projection shutters in front of you, it's all about being there. The reason we go to movies. To be moved. To feel something. To know that even when it fades to black it will open up again tomorrow like the seeds of every spring. With high hopes that we'll always have a seat. Week after week. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Lost Daughter', 'Film Stars Don't Die In Liverpool', 'The Reader'. 

REVIEW: THE WHALE

3.5/5

The Father.

117 Mins. Starring: Brendan Fraser, Sadie Sink, Hong Chau, Ty Simpkins & Samantha Morton. Director: Darren Aronofsky.

Moby-Dick is what anchors 'The Whale', not some gross gag in one of last year's best pictures that only jerks tears...despite the opening scene. There's a dignity to Brendan Fraser's Best Actor Oscar winning performance beyond the prosthetics that takes this stage play to the adapted acclaim of the big screen. It's no suit shaming like fellow Academy Award-winning actor Gary Oldman as Churchill in the 'Darkest Hour' of 2017. Going through hell and still going like the waters of trying to take down the biggest whale, this labour of love of family and life itself from Fraser is formidable. Aggravated in emotion and what lies beneath the shadowy frames of family drama. It's beyond the escape eating and debasing of a morbidly obese man, or the opinions that they should have got someone closer to the real weight truth to play this part. They always say these things. But acting is acting, and Fraser makes you feel the weight of every emotion. Besides, we are past the 'Raging Bull' days when gaining, or losing weight for roles like a Christian Bale 'Machinist' is beyond method, but actually madness to one's long term health. 

Casting 'The Mummy' star Fraser as this dear dad, who over the last few years of Internet trends has become a cult hero gone viral, is a master move. One because this compelling character and actor of great empathy will make those who think size matters think twice when it comes to the man behind the disabled webcam. Ready to teach you a lesson in more than English for your group Zoom and right any wrongs as you write your truth. Big is beautiful, but the trials of the clinically obese go way beyond those who shame and name call. It's a health issue, both mental and physical that deserves both our kindness and our understanding. It's not disgusting. 

Comfort eating, or more appropriately, the chemical addiction certain junk foods give us when all else is lost like our dopamine levels can be just as much of a problem as alcoholism, or drug addiction when it leads to life or death problems. Just a more overlooked one. Especially when the other two are wrongly romanticized, especially in mainstream media. And the recovery and relapse, much more revered. Whereas this issue is ridiculed. Remember, there was a time when depression carried shaming stigma not so long ago too. As it happens all addiction should be treated just as seriously and celebrated in its recovery just as passionately. No matter how short the steps. No matter how far the end goal remains. If ever truly reached. 

The juxtaposition of Fraser's Charlie character's weight gain after his lost lover practically emaciated himself to the end isn't just one from the play poetry play book, but the cruel twist and real turns of fate itself. Just like the ties that bind in family who make mistakes that will take generations to break. That's what makes 'The Whale' such a compelling play and cinematic adaptation like 'The Father' and 'The Son' to come from Florian Zeller. Now it's on 'Black Swan' and 'The Wrestler' surreal, psychological drama director Darren Aronofsky to take Samuel D. Hunter's play from stage to screen after the 'mother!' of all clusterf###s (still a movie like few else though). Darren's dark designs and haunting religious tones really help 'The Whale' soar like that famous free killer one, even as it mostly sticks to the Playbill script with all due respect to a classic. Like Fraser watching another legendary 'Frasier'. 

Speaking of those who levitate, levitate, levitate like Kendrick Lamar, with all the just Oscar hype Brendan Fraser received, earned and then won, how about Sadie Sink? She already stole the show and our hearts by the graveside of 'Dear Billy' in the last season of 'Stranger Things' as she rose like Kate Bush 'Running Up That Hill' and back up the charts. And here Sink nails a nuanced and even greater performance as Charlie's estranged daughter who shows little love lost. Not mincing any of the harsh words or picture posts that come from those who don't understand, or even don't get how to process their own emotions yet. But give her a break. She's just a kid. And there's method to these maddening feelings too. Hidden behind a scrolling screen and the posts that are as much a cry for help as they are a middle finger to the world these type of teens are already justifiably tired to death of. 

Yeah, you won't have a title of a time watching this. Dramas defining Oscar Season are always shaped like this. But there's pleasure in the comeback kids Academy victory like 'Encino Man' (absolute classic) Ke Huy Quan's Best Supporting Actor Oscar. Everything, everywhere, all at once, can you imagine if his Short Round had a cameo in the new 'Indiana Jones' movie? But back to it, there's more that lies beneath the water of 'The Whale' than a legendary lead and the artistic integrity of the magnificent make-up department. In this acclaimed A24 (the best production company from 'Everything' to the Netflix 'Beef') movie, 'Downsizing' standout Hong Chau deserves The Academy love like her yes chef aid did in the restaurant script flipping Oscar overlooked Ralph Fiennes 'Menu'.

 

Ditto to Samantha Morton, the 'Minority Report' bold breakout star on the year of her career with this and another Academy ignored classic, 'She Said'. Even 'Jurassic World' and 'Iron Man 3' star Ty Simpkins shows mettle as a young missionary not doing it exactly by the good book (make that 'Iron Lad' movie already, Marvel. The kid is growing up before our eyes). Moments of cruel heartbreak harpoon this Whale when you thought there was light at the end of the tunnel in the middle of this ocean. And one powerhouse speech sinks the Oscar shot. But there's a moving meaning in the message that lies below this movie and the man behind the mask that makes up even more. Bringing a beauty in all this brutality to the surface as the tide touches your toes. Let it wash over you. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Minari', 'Mother!', 'The Father'. 

REVIEW: AIR

4/5

Good Shoe Dog Hunting.

112 Mins. Starring: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Jason Bateman, Marlon Wayans, Chris Messina, Matthew Maher, Julius Tennon, Chris Tucker & Viola Davis. Director: Ben Affleck. 

Up in the air, there was a time when footwear giant Nike, blocked and out of bounds, almost heard the final buzzer when it came to basketball. Just done like the slogan whose beginnings you'll never believe. But then in 1984 came a game changer like Orwell. The third pick that made the earth sick as Jay said. MJ with the fade away, perfect. Now Nike are synonymous with their swoosh as brand recognizable without the name as the golden arches of McDonald's M that's had more people pulling over than police, and the digital sustenance of that bitten Apple. And we haven't even begun to talk about the Jumpman logo yet. LeBron James just passed Adidas ambassador and fellow Laker legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the greatest scorer in NBA history in a pair of his own signature Nike's. But MJ changed the game like his Jackson initial sake. Along with the Air to his Jordan name. And this is the story of how one man, and a company almost working out of a shoebox, made us believe we could all fly. 

One that from its Dire Straits MTV beginnings could only be born in the U.S.A. like the Springsteen soundtrack making a point. A big score that owes Tangerine Dream a cheque Spotify streams will probably cash. The Holy Grail of the hardwood, the first Air Jordan sneaker really is the most beautiful basketball shoe of all time. Changing the 600-year footwear industry for the first time since we distinguished between left and right. But they were just a pair of shoes before Michael Jeffrey Jordan stood in them and took off beyond the Chicago skyline to a whole other space jam, man. Number 23 is so legendary. So iconic, no one could truly capture him. And his mythic, God like status is give more magic by a body double you only see from behind like the opponents did the last name on the back of his jersey as he blew right past them. Mike was as involved in this as he was the glorious ESPN 30 For 30 come locked down Netflix documentary during the pandemic 'The Last Dance' that made us all believers again, in more ways than one. It was Jordan after all, who decided who would play his mother Deloris. 

Owing much to the big-hitting 'Moneyball' with 'The Social Network' media swagger, 'Air' has its time in theatres right before the Amazon Studios picture hits prime streaming. And one of the biggest pictures of the year is also the best, don't let it be outside an Oscar nomination just because it's come a few weeks after The Academy's awards. Don't save it all for the fall. Cinema, let alone Netflix and Disney Plus have had a full court press of basketball content since that dance, but none can step like this in a fresh pair of J's. Even if director Ben Affleck has bare feet on the desk as the Timberlake NSYNC era curls of CEO 'Shoe Dog' Phil Knight. Playing the comedic contradictions of this billionaire Buddhist with the bestseller perfectly. Affleck portrayed an alcoholic basketball coach with power as the pandemic hit in 'The Way Back'. Now our love of the game isn't the only thing that is being reunited. 

Boston born best friends with the pride of a Celtic, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon won scriptwriting Oscars 'Good Will Hunting' with the late, great Robin Williams. Damon went on to remain one of the world's best actors and most marketable in movies. Whilst Affleck amazed as a director (his big-three beginnings came with 'Gone Baby Gone', 'The Town' and The Academy Award-winning 'Argo' ("f### yourself!"). He even became Batman and the best Bruce Wayne. And now after struggles on and off-screen, Ben is back. Even though we love Matt Reeves and Robert Pattinson, we still would have loved to see his Batman movie, but will get to see him crusade in capes one last time in 'The Flash' alongside Michael f#####g Keaton. Now, just after writing (with Nicole Holofcener) and playing together (Affleck in yet another amazing wig) for 'The Last Duel' of Ridley Scott, they are Jordan and Pippen partnering up again. Forging their own dynasty with their studio Artists Equity production company that makes sure everyone on the roster gets their fair share. 

That's more than fitting in a shoe deal movie that paved the hall of fame way for the player empowerment we see today from the King to the last man on the pine. Damon's stirring speeches as basketball guru Sonny Vaccaro could rewrite any a cheque. Especially in classic closing. But it's his video one room dissecting young Michael's off the ball play before he hit his college championship winning shot that had me shed a tear for more than just the reason that I love this game like I do my first. It's more than worthy of your nomination too. Just like the woman king and the only one who could play Michael Jordan's Mom, Viola Davis. Pure presence in all her power, lobbying and betting it all on Nike...as she already knew her son was a sure thing. What Deloris did for young black athletes rights matters and Viola just makes it vivid. Having Davis' real life husband Julius Tennon play the late James Jordan Sr. hits the sweet spot with feeling too. 

An all-star cast is the only thing that could make this 'Air' fly in the rarefied kind. Outstanding 'Ozark' actor Jason Bateman again like Davis is always brilliant. But don't understate either of their evergreen talents. 'Rush Hour' legend Chris Tucker gives us one of his best performances ever, keeping the laughs rolling like that first film with Jackie. Whilst with one dream of an important speech in his shirt pocket, Marlon Wayans bar-room scene of classic counsel passes it all. But it's 'Live By Night' star Chris Messina who steals the show as agent David Falk with an acid tongue that if not hilarious would convince you there was poison in that pen along the dotted line. Speaking of living by night, frequent Affleck collaborator and stage actor Matthew Maher is grand as the designs of Peter Moore. If only the real deal architect of the Air Jordan could see this movie that was sadly announced a mere month after his passing. What he would see is all types of colourways of his legendary cleat creep up the darkened stairs of cinema screens, carrying their own light. Worn with fandom and pride like band tees at biopics, Marvel t-shirts at superhero movies and Star Wars costumes in that galaxy far, far away. Legend and legacy, all in the same air. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Moneyball', 'The Way Back', 'The Last Dance'. 

REVIEW: KNOCK AT THE CABIN

4/5

The Cabin In The Woods. 

100 Mins. Starring: Dave Bautista, Jonathan Groff, Ben Aldridge, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Kristen Cui, Abby Quinn & Rupert Grint. Director: M. Night Shyamalan. 

KNOCK. KNOCK. KNOCK. KNOCK. Signs of the apocalypse are happening right now. All around the world. A planetary pandemic. War and the crippling cost of air travel keeping us further from each other than the arm's length of social distance. Not to forget just what mother nature could do to us at any given moment if we don't love and nurture her like we would our own. M Night Shyamalan taps into those fears like 'The Sixth Sense' and 'Unbreakable' 'Split' and 'Glass' trilogy great director of horror did with the truly triggering and terrifying (to our age) 'Old' ('The Happening' director's last picture). There are Easter Egg 'Signs' of a collection of this creepy curator's classics that are now becoming hallowed and heralded like the volumes of the master of the chill (sounds like a great rapper name), Stephen King (that too). But there's nothing that will really wake you up out of your reverie with a start like the 'Knock At The Cabin'. 

Pounding on the door of an idyllic cabin in the woods with ham fists. A young family is in for a rude awakening when four figures ride in warning them of the impending apocalypse. What's it got to do with them, you ask? Well, nothing about their sexuality and ethnicity, as this film makes some pronged points (like those weapon of choice, terrifying tools) about this box-ticking world of saying you love things for likes, when really most would reverse the trend the moment the tide turned on them. Instead, caught like grasshoppers in a mason jar, or other subtle metaphors, this family is given the chance to save all of humanity. All they have to do is sacrifice one of their own. Yeah, right! "All." Calling back to the cruellest of catch 22's that Barry Keoghan gave to fellow 'The Banshees Of Inisherin' co-star Colin Farrell (both robbed at The Academy, Oscar) in Yorgos Lanthimos landmark, but overlooked 'The Killing Of A Sacred Deer'. This is something of brutal, biblical proportions, and perhaps one of M Night's best days at the movies yet. Not to mention his most classic hallmark cameos on this network. 

Straight scary in its decision-making process without its usual twist, this 'Cabin' doesn't go bump in the night, but that's no knock. Behind the curtain, even if it does see the light of day, it just might be the last. How can you comprehend the reality of this happening, even when it's all playing out on a screen tuned in, right in front of you? Especially when one of the lawyers in charge of his own has a disbelief beyond a reasonable doubt. This is what makes this film so urgent. Especially with how it applies to the world we live in right now with the mask coming off. One that injects vaccine debates into our daily conversation, playing a game of whose opinion comes out on top when we should really be playing it as safe as when we stayed in our houses (although we don't need to lockdown now) to keep each other in the best health we can, all whilst getting on with our lives (but let's just at least keep our hands clean). Our reason to disbelieve everything mapped out in front of us scientifically because it gets in the way of our own paths to what we promised ourselves, or our righteousness, coupled with the quagmire of a decision no one could make in their right minds hits you like a lightning bolt you wouldn't wish on your worst enemy and scene after scene you won't see coming, let alone the end. In a world of movies as pretty predictable as a trademark twist. The twist itself becoming part and parcel of that predictability. 

The family in question are played perfectly by two men and a little lady. The scene stealing, star of the future Kristen Cui with the best taste in Studio Ghibli movies, who from opening to closing feels like she's been here for years. That's how good this child-actor's presence is. Yet her parents help raise that idea to the top of the treehouse. Thomas Wayne in 'Pennyworth' Ben Aldridge is more than the lovable 'Arsehole Guy' in 'Fleabag' which really opened things up for the best thing on television. Aggravated after an assault, what's simmering below the rage he uses against those with a machine like assembly against his family is pure and profound. But seeing the light through the concussion, it's 'Hamilton' Tony Award winner Jonathan Groff that really takes to this wooden stage tied to a chair. The man that made you get over the fact that he replaced Hugo Weaving in the new 'Matrix' resurrection is a revolution. 

As your wheels refuse to turn on a question that can only be answered with a "f### you"! Our unwelcome visitors continue to drive the screws in...as politely as they can with the doomsday clock ticking away like sand in an hour glass. Save the rage of Rupert Grint (so good in 'Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet Of Curiosities' last fall), who seems like a man possessed with more than perplexing pain. There's a glint in Grint's eye that shows this Weasley is king, graduating from Hogwarts and all. Not to mention the fact that his facial expressions were easily the best thing about the magic 'Harry Potter' franchise. In this unimaginable psychological horror based on Paul G. Tremblay's 2018 novel 'The Cabin At The End Of The World', the only thing that isn't unquestionable here is the talent showcased in one setting that could be for a stage play from 'The Father' to 'The Whale'. 'Persuasion' actress Nikki Amuka-Bird is powerful in her nursing of a clinically conflicted person. Trying to nurture her own humanity and the conflicting conviction of a question she can't bare to ask, let alone answer. Whilst 'Little Women' and 'I'm Thinking Of Ending Things' actress Abby Quinn finally gets the break she deserves after appearing in many movies and being stung by a 'Bumblebee' deleted scenes. But will her front of house staff character pick up the same tab? Here's a tip, you shouldn't ruin a second of this movie, even in theory.

Keep your lips sealed with a finger to your mouth. Because what will really get hold of you is wrestler turned actual actor Dave Bautista. The Marvel star and classic Bond henchman who recently starred in the 'Knives Out' mystery of 'Glass Onion' is showing us layers of acting that even the great Rock couldn't cook up. Crying like someone's cutting up hamburger vegetables. He's always great when bespectacled (see the 'Dune' star in Denis Villeneuve's 'Blade Runner 2049') and here in a preacher white, short-sleeved shirt, even though he looks like he could break you in his Destroyer hands, he seems genuinely kind. It's a genius move casting the simple but straight Drax as a man hiding either hatred behind that gentle giant tenderness, or simply the truth. Subtle, but far from the invisible man, he's the perfect looming figure to take you through this movie and whether you choose to believe him, or not. Let alone if he has the right, or if you think he is in moral obligation or human justification. Shyamalan's seriously scary and time sensitive tale will this time twist YOU in knots and rap at your door long after the visit comes to a close. Knock on the wood of this cabin. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Unbreakable', 'Sings', 'The Killing Of A Sacred Deer'.

REVIEW: RYE LANE

3.5/5

The Love End Theory. 

82 Mins. Starring: David Jonsson & Vivian Oparah. Director: Raine Allen-Miller. 

Catch her in the Rye. 'She's Gotta Have It' like the dynamics of a Spike Lee debut, as the first film from revolutionary talent Raine Allen-Miller mixes all that with a Richard Linklater 'Before' trilogy Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy walk through from 'Sunrise' to 'Sunset'. Allen-Miller calls '12 Years A Slave', 'Shame' and 'Widows' great British directing giant like his name Steve McQueen "a hero" (and we really don't need to put this truth in quotation), and takes inspiration from Channel 4's legendary 'Peep Show', as a close-up and personal frame of reference for this BBC Film. This is London and the love of 'Rye Lane' in a romantic comedy that flips the script on the romcom genre and puts said street on the lover's lane map like Julia Roberts and some "daft prick" in 'Notting Hill'. Just kidding. We love you, Hugh. Even in last week's 'Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves'. 

This Fox Searchlight picture now finds the light of day and way on Disney Plus like the 'Boston Strangler' before it and the May to December 'Empire Of Light' to come this April. Taking to the Big Smoke streets of Brixton brilliance for The Academy. Twisting and turning in plot points and genre tropes, bending it around Peckham. There's an art gallery opening (and the same notion in closing for an exhibit that really makes an ass of you) that lets Raine reign supreme like a perfect Prince tribute in classic cinematography set for screens in cinemas like The Barbican...FACT! There's also a tribute to the romcom finale with a perfect twist for the best thing on the Thames since 'Harry Potter' made that bridge famous and top gun Tom Cruise ran the entire length before rooftop-to-rooftop breaking his ankle and then continuing to run (mission: possible) like only this maverick can. 

But for all the tricks of the trade that now points to the future of UK directing being on Miller time, this film is more than the frames, or the colour and shape of young adulthood movies to come. This is more than the pissing contest at the school's urinals. Instead, it's a tale of two jilted lovers finding sweet solace in each other as they navigate their neighbourhoods and the nuances of love and life after their dreams become deferred like the love they just thought would last. And just wait until it tells you your truth (just live with it). Forever doesn't seem to be on the cards these days in our swipe through age, but these two give us something we can hold on to like the back of a moped. West End and BBC Two and HBO 'Industry' star David Jonsson and Off West End and BBC Three 'Doctor Who' spin-off ('Class') sensation Vivian Oparah light up the screen like London's Piccadilly Circus in Idris Elba's 'Luther's' 'Fallen Sun' movie on Netflix...but without all the human carnage (although there is some in the dating game). This is their movie. And their bold and beautiful breakout...together. 

Chance encounters of a close kind don't get much better than this big-three of Jonsson, Oparah and Allen-Miller. Live in living colour like the pastel orange that adorns this picture's promotional poster or the palettes used in this artistic gem, disguised as just another walk and play in the park. A Sundance Film Festival favourite with critical acclaim, you'll want to plug into these headphones and this original direction fantasy, even if you don't want the AUX lead for your phone. It's all good, my friend. Backstreet and Shania would shuffle on mine. No shame. All pride. But I won't sign my name to referring to the legendary Terence Trent D'Arby as cheesy. From quests to reclaim tribe's best album, to a soundtrack that will stick in your earworm like a q-tip (or as we Brits say it, "cotton bud"), this film sings. Especially when it wins like a karaoke night that will call for the microphones now 'Rye Lane' finds a streaming home in Japan and the rest of the world (for some reason, my stream was set to German). 'Rye' goes down sweetly and smoothly like the whiskey of the same name. A love letter to both London and the hearts that know what it takes to reach the end of the road, this afternoon stroll is in its own lane. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'She's Gotta Have It', 'Before Sunset', 'Notting Hill'. 

REVIEW: MURDER MYSTERY 2

3/5

Just Get Away With It.

89 Mins. Starring: Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston, Mark Strong, Mélanie Laurent, Adeel Akhtar, Enrique Arce, Jodie Turner-Smith & John Kani. Director: Jeremy Garelick. 

Murder most foul. Critics have their knives out for Netflix's 'Murder Mystery 2' sequel, but this writer really liked it (shocker) and what's more, I haven't even seen the first film yet (deadlines be damned). 'Just Go With It'. In 2019, Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston hit streaming success with 'Murder Mystery'. So you always knew a franchise starter would be on the cards. Especially in the same year Rian Johnson's 'Knives Out' made Sherlock like sleuthing cool again. Netflix buying up the layers of his 'Glass Onion' sequel, all whilst keeping their candid comedy version on deck. Sandler may have got serious with the streamer on his groundbreaking 'Uncut Gems' with the Safdie's, but the Happy go Madison lucky star still likes to get silly and sock us in ours. Terrific. He's one of the greats. Maturing past 'Grown Ups' and still with enough classics in the jukebox like 'The Wedding Singer', back when 'Friends' famous Jennifer Aniston was changing catalogues in hair salons worldwide with the Rachel. 

Now this is the one where they get away with murder. Aniston and Sandler have been pretending to be a couple since the plot of their first film in 2011, but their undeniable chemistry can't be faked like their unforced charisma. There's enough great gags here, riffing and working off each other to keep you cackling instead of sighing. And what masquerades as a trip on the Orient Express like a murderous Agatha Christie for these amateur detective is not just a chance for Netflix's big budget to show off picture perfect lavish locations like a 'Red Notice' or 'The Gray Man' action ensemble. A private island Indian wedding spells no trouble with this 'Ticket To Paradise' like a fellow reuniting George Clooney and Julia Roberts. All before this mystery takes a last train to Paris like Emily and gives us a formidable finale, shining on the sparkling, gold iron lady of the Eiffel Tower at night. Reminiscent of the time Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker took on Hiroyuki Sanada in France for 'Rush Hour 3'.

Sure, like the aforementioned Netflix movies, the streaming service is known to pad out subscription filler and this may fall under that heading. We even joked about it in this week's review for South Korean action 'Kill Boksoon', as Netflix Asia is not dropping the ball in this squid game. But that doesn't mean 'Murder Mystery' (I'm sure) or its spying sequel (I know) are bad movies. Even if they do lack an arm, or two. There's a lot worse you could put on in the background as you make dinner (I've seen your Spotify playlists) and that's no slight. Some movies were me at for the multiplex. Others were meant to do down easy like popcorn chased with flat soda. 'The Wedding Ringer' director Jeremy Garelick's movie may be garlic to some, but we say he knows how to toast and hold a party. Cheers to this 'Murder Mystery' weekend. 

Would we watch a third film? Sure! Even though you know we've already got away with missing the first hit (tonight I promise, in the living room with a remote for you Cluedo fans). Middling doesn't always have to be maddening. And armed to the teeth with talent like the new Gary Sinise (as in, he's in everything. And we ain't complaining), Mark Strong and the best gag about his bounce (I feel you, brother), 'Inglourious Basterds' standout Mélanie Laurent, actress of the moment Jodie Turner-Smith ('Queen and Slim', 'The Neon Demon', 'White Noise' and 'After Yang') and the original 'Black Panther', John Kani, this film is more than fine. Especially when Adeel Akhtar and Enrique Arce hilariously steal the show. But whodunnit? You already know who's making a killing. Netflix. The rest needn't be put under a magnifying glass. The games great. Even if a little afoot like John Turturro's butler in 'Mr. Deeds' (sneaky, sneaky). Mystery solved. Now that's how you get away with a Viola Davis like TV affair when there are only murders in the streaming. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Murder Mystery', 'Just Go With It', 'Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery'. 

REVIEW: DUNGEONS & DRAGONS - HONOR AMONG THIEVES

3/5

Dungeon Master.

134 Mins. Starring: Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Regé-Jean Page, Justice Smith, Sophia Lillis, Chloe Coleman, Daisy Head & Hugh Grant. Directors: Jonathan Goldstein & John Francis Daley. 

Dragon ball. Dungeons, dragons and Chris Pine, oh my! You can just imagine The Party of the 'Stranger Things' cast queuing up for this one. Finally, in a world of 'Warcraft' and game adaptations of everything from 'Tetris' to 'Monopoly' (still in development jail), we finally have a worthy 'Dungeons and Dragons', bawdy, big-screen blockBLUSTER! And it's 'Honor Among Thieves'. Are you ready player one? Let's take it back to the 80s days when you weren't bored with games unless they were electric like Tokyo's Akhiabara district. 'Game Night' directors Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley give us another one after the tricks of their wizarding writing ways saw them pen parts of 'Spider-Man: Homecoming' and the 'Horrible Bosses' franchise (with a sequel, scene-stealing Pine in his prime). A campy, fiery film featuring a 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' like assemble of rogues in a gallery of good time, fun-filled family franchise films like 'The Mummy' and all that 'National Treasure'. 

Ever since he truly broke out and made you forget about Shatner, redefining Captain James T. Kirk in J.J. Abrams 2009 'Star Trek' reboot, Chris Pine has been a charming charisma machine. 'Unstoppable', 'This Means War', 'Wonder Woman' (so good they brought him back from the dead), 'A Wrinkle In Time'. The 'Jack Ryan' before Krasinski even showed his ace acting smarts in 'Hell Or High Water', 'The Finest Hours', Netflix's 'Outlaw King' and most recently Olivia Wilde's wild 'Don't Worry Darling'. He's played a Spider-Man in 'Into The Spider Verse' and Disney fans even want to see the 'Into The Woods' star as Phoebus in a live action 'Hunchback Of Notre Dame' movie. But here he's perfect in this geeks dream, a Hollywood heartthrob giving nerdgasm's like when he uttered the infamous line, "space...the final frontier." Instrumental with his lute (and one hilarious scene you'll want to put on repeat until your face falls off), he is the bard. Bold and brilliant. Born to regale us in a cool costume that could make even Jack Sparrow swallow his silver tongue. 

Alas, it's not all about him. No matter how much I'm obviously man-crushing right now (with apologies to my girlfriend). He forms a formidable, one-two, brother and sister friendship like, co-parenting punch with 'Fast and the Furious' franchise and 'Avatar' star Michelle Rodriguez. Set to fire boost the screens yet again this scorching summer with the tread of Vin Diesel, Rodriguez shows she can punch it even more when she gets out from behind the wheel and goes hand-to-hand in combat like a Wick, 'Black Widow' or this week's South Korean action hit 'Kill Boksoon'. Together they forge a union to untie Chloe Coleman from her Castle bonds and reunite. But just like Anya Taylor-Joy's Princess Peach in the forthcoming 'Super Mario Bros' movie (another gaming adaptation on this digital plane), she refuses to be a damsel in distress. All for one and for a film that breathes its own fire and leaves the clichés in the dungeon. Fun and cynicism free. 

Amazing action and sweet special-effects give you an arena of fun gladiatorial battles and caves of Smaug like scorching scenes. On the board, 'Jurassic World' and 'Detective Pikachu's' Justice Smith's sorcerer and Stephen King's 'It's' Beverly Marsh, Sophia Lillis all play their roles perfectly. Not to mention 'Shadow and Bone' star Daisy Head's tattooed one as an evil wizard and the great Hugh Grant continuing his post 'Notting Hill' rom-com 'Gentleman' career (you thought he was scary licking blood off a sword in 'Cloud Atlas'? Just wait until you see his face on a hot air balloon). And we can't not mention a classic cameo we won't spoil of hobbit proportions (but it's got nothing to do with Middle Earth, 'Lord Of The Rings' fans). But for your tabletop, it's 'Bridgerton' and a worthy opponent for Idris Elba's Bond in Regé-Jean Page who steals the show playing it seriously straight. Just like his walk the walk and talk the talk. Need you ask any more hilarious questions? OK...maybe just one more. Thank the Gods that they used the tablet of resurrection on this one. Spellbinding. This realm won't be forgotten. DnD will even make you shed a tear. As thick as thieves, this fire breather from the depth honours Hasbro. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Mummy (1999)', 'National Treasure', 'Guardians Of The Galaxy'. 

REVIEW: KILL BOKSOON

4/5

Mothering Gunplay.

137 Mins. Starring: Jeon Do-yeon, Sol Kyung-gu, Esom, Koo Kyo-hwan & Kim Si-a. Director: Byun Sung-hyun. 

Being a mother is hard enough. A single one, even more so. Then, imagine you had to take out the trash every night. Yakuza bosses in bathrobes, shuffling obnoxiously like they think they're Muhammed Ali. Training montages with young upstarts who don't know that everything John Wick can do with a pencil, you can do better with a Sharpie. A lunch break that turns into one hell of a food fight. Let alone those judging ladies that lunch. Speaking of which, if you think Netflix's original movies are not worth your time...let alone your subscription, then let the streaming service's Asian cinema (Japan's 'Call Me Chihiro' last month for example) change your mind like your password when an ex still uses your account. South Korea is already the new Hollywood leader of entertainment. From BTS to BLACKPINK and the Oscar Best Picture 'Parasite' to Netflix's most successful show 'Squid Game'. 

Now, the director of 'The Merciless' Byun Sung-hyun brings us an amazing action of explosive 'Atomic Blonde' styling, that could even rival Korea's 'The Villainess', laced with definitive drama in 'Kill Boksoon'. All in the same month the fourth chapter of the formidable 'John Wick' franchise (with an Ana de Armas fronted 'Ballerina' spin-off in rehearsal) directed by former stuntman Chad Stahelski shows the art of action choreography. It seems like we are living in a new golden age of martial arts based set-pieces that the Hong Kong cinematic feats of Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh are surely proud of. Especially as the latter brought home the Oscar for Best Actress for the Academy Award-winning movie 'Everything Everywhere All At Once'. The sort of Hollywood homage Keanu Reeves travelled 2013 for ('47 Ronin', 'Man Of Tai Chi'), before hitting paydirt and striking gold with a pencil.. Sung-hyun's hallmark hand-to-hand combat and the way he handles the camera as director brings new definition to the dynamic. Dynamite set to the score of a tense twisting and turning Rubik's Cube that may as well be a time bomb. Exploding in wall-to-wall fights that turn you upside down and spin you right 'round, round, baby 'right round (like a record). 

Imagine being an assassin trying to retire without a trace of a "one last job" cliché. All whilst being a mother to a teenage daughter, smoking cigarettes like your gun and finding one in your purse. It's enough to drive a sane one crazy, but our 'La Femme Nikita' Jeon Do-yeon makes an absolute killing. The first Korean actress to win an award at Cannes (the Best Actress of the 60th Film Festival for 2007's 'Secret Sunshine') and star of Netflix's 'Crash Course In Romance' gives you one in handling a handgun and a home life. Oozing confidence in a blood burgundy suit as her targets run rivers the same, she's a hit, man. A legend. So much so shell casings don't even hit her. Dodge this. She sleuth sees everything in a Keanu as The One in 'The Matrix' bullet-time like Robert Downey Jr.'s 'Sherlock Holmes'. But come now, she's not the only one who can play this game. 

With an axe to grind, shopping in hand, it's the family dynamics with 'Miss Baek' and 'Ashfall' star Kim Si-a coming of age, that really strikes a chord. Showing us the apple with the switch-blade in it (like 'Rush Hour 2') doesn't fall too far from the tree in this garden of action and Korean cinema Eden. It's what gives the gratuitous gore its dramatic weight, with equal helpings of heart and heft making the two hour and twenty minute runtime feel like a walk into the lobby where you hope 'Boksoon' doesn't have to remove any metallic items she may be carrying. Keys. Loose change. Studded with stars like the walls are hollow points, 'The Merciless' reunited star Sol Kyung-gu gives us a Russian bar brawl to rival the time Colin Firth's 'Kingsman' took Kentucky to church. Model actress Esom lights up the screen with just a look of her star power, with the charisma wattage to match the electricity. Whilst 'Train To Busan', 'Peninsula' sequel star Koo Kyo-hwan threatens to runaway with this picture like an art thief, anytime his portrait is on-screen like Picard. The knives are more than out for 'Kill Boksoon', but here's hoping this isn't the final cut, burying the hatchet. We want to renew the contract for another hit. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'The Merciless', 'The Villainess', 'John Wick: Chapter 4'.