REVIEW: BACK TO BLACK

3.5/5 

Always In Love With Amy

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

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

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

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

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

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

REVIEW: GLADIATOR II

4/5

Thumbs Up

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TV REVIEW: FRASIER - Revival Season 2

4/5

Boston Psychiatric. 

10 Episodes. Starring: Kelsey Grammar, Jack Cutmore-Scott, Anders Keith, Jess Salgueiro, Toks Olagundoye, Peri Gilpin & Nicholas Lyndhurst. Developed By: Chris Harris & Joe Cristalli. On: Paramount +.

Go ahead, caller. We're still listening. No, no, your eggs aren't scrambled, Beantown brethren. It may feel like the 80s again, right now, but in actual fact, the good times are back. The Celtics are champions once more, and 'Frasier' is back in Boston. Cheers to two storied franchises adding another chapter and round at the bar. Just when you thought they couldn't call again, after the passing of the legendary John Mahoney and the beloved Eddie, his radio psychiatrist of a son refused to shrink from the spotlight, moving back to the coast he used to toast with Ted Danson. With no David Hyde Pierce and Jane Leeves, it looked better left. But then the perfect Anders Keith showed he could play their son to a tee. All whilst 'Only Fools And Horses' and 'Goodnight Sweetheart' great Nicholas Lyndhurst show stole, stepping in as the Robin to Dr. Crane's Batman, or the Cecil to his Sideshow Bob. And you loved watching those two trying to slip the twelve days of Christmas into the conversation, last fall.

Kelsey Grammar is well and truly back and coming correct like "you're" not "your" welcome. It's his rodeo again, with his iconic characters continuing legend. Not to mention his classic character returning to the treehouse this Halloween for 'The Simpsons' trick or treat sweet short, 'The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year' on Disney +. Or his Beast of a reunion with the academy of X-Men multiverses for you to Marvel at. But this, like a 'Cheers' bar, is his beautiful home, like walking along the cobbled old Irish streets of Beacon Hill. Even if he sleeplessly refuses to truly say goodnight to Seattle, returning, like we only wish the Supersonics would, for an epic episode of fond nostalgia in the radio city halls. You can expect even more cameos, like you can the fact that we won't spoil them, even if they're doing the rounds on the same feeds you read this review off. Because 'Frasier' and his friends exist in that sweet 'Seinfeld' sitcom time on syndicated television, where the TV Guide was your only guess to what was coming as you tuned into primetime.

This streaming plus from Paramount, and showrunners Chris Harris and Joe Cristalli does bring back the great Peri Gilpin as Roz Doyle and a recurring regular, this series, after her compelling cameo in the first season's finale. And she's as welcome as the time she randomly followed me on Instagram some time ago (this 'Frasier' fanatic didn't even post anything about the show, but you best believe I was trying to work the gym selfies afterwards, even if my frame is Niles Crane). Rumour has it that one episode in Cape Cod and classic Frasier Crane misunderstanding will have you hearing more on the grapevine than Marvin Gaye or Martha's Vineyard. Gilpin, and a legendary 'Everybody Loves Raymond' actress, give this show the prestige of star power. All whilst Anders, Jack Cutmore-Scott's firefighter Freddie, an all about Eve, Jess Salgueiro and Toks Olagundoye's perfect professor with the most sensational shindigs, all become fond, firm favourites. Welcomed back as warmly as they now feel familiar.

Green lit for a second season, and deserving the charm of a third, 'Frasier' finds itself firmly a fall favourite on your television screens like 'Only Murders In The Building'. The grey generation, still finding a home in this podcast age. Even if all we have to bear with this coming winter is the dark designs of spin-off shows and grown up cult classics. The 'Game Of Thrones' breathing fire into the 'House of Dragon' series. 'The Lord Of The Rings' circling back to 'The Rings Of Power'. 'The Penguin' from 'The Batman' waddling past Marvel's 'Agatha All Along' nightmare before Christmas as the strongest show on the schedule. Not to mention 'The Old Man' of Jeff Bridges getting another go round with sitcom icon John Lithgow ('3rd Rock From The Sun'). And this old dog has tricks too in a new Boston bar that doubles for your caffeine fix, now you'll be nervous about how Nervosa has tuned out in this Gen Z age. Hamming it up and playing Cyrano, or three men and a baby (albeit missing a Ted). Hiding behind a therapists couch, or squashing rumours that really could be an agent of change. Fake boyfriends. Reclusive authors. Lovers triangles. KACL tributes. Murder most funny in a room you won't want to escape from. And a classic Christmas episode to put under your tree. What more could you want from this festive season? You know how it goes. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Cheers', 'Only Fools And Horses', 'The Simpsons: The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year'.

TV REVIEW: THE PENGUIN - Season 1

4/5

The Emperor's New Clothes

8 Episodes. Starring: Colin Farrell, Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Deirdre O’Connell, Clancy Brown, Carmen Ejogo, Theo Rossi, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Michael Kelly & Mark Strong. Showrunner: Lauren LeFranc. On: HBO.

Top billing on this fall T.V schedule, goes to the gloomy streets of Gotham, with something darker than winter coming. Beating all the 'Game Of Thrones' ('House Of The Dragon') and 'Lord Of The Rings' ('Rings Of Power') spin-off shows is Lauren LeFranc's 'The Penguin', showcasing the side-streets of Matt Reeves' 'The Batman' with Robert Pattinson (no, he doesn't show up...and he doesn't need to). Besting 'The Old Man' and even the witches road of the Marvel and DC war with 'Agatha All Along' this Halloween gone, the real drama about Oz waddles to victory, just waiting for its monocle and cane. Donning the Penguin suit again is an unrecognizable, but undeniable Colin Farrell, who has been the don ever since the first time he met The Bat ("woah, take it easy, sweetheart"). Devoted like the great Danny DeVito and Robin Lord Taylor. Just don't say his name, because his vengeance spits venom. Not to mention fire and brimstone with some gruesome, graphic moments where there will be hell to pay.

Disney movies. Watching them was the only that could save the Irish, 'Banshees Of Inisherin', 'In Bruges', 'The Lobster' and 'Daredevil' Bullseye actor from the darkness of delving into the murky waters of Oswald Cobb, as HBO took this miniseries to the max. Getting himself more than a gun and his Tony Soprano on. An outstanding origin story that pays attention to the street corners of Gotham's underworld, a long way away from Wayne manor. Depths that go deeper than even the Batcave, this Home Box Office maker would even make for the best video game story as the lunatics are running the fringes of Arkham Asylum. As you see through the eyes and the coming of age of Rheny Feliz (a Marvel 'Runaway'), you really feel it, and what could be this good fella's make or break in a cold world with strings pulled by godfather's. His performance is powerful, just like the claw clutches of the ones he can't escape. This city, that will worm its way through you like a rotten apple if you don't make your way out.

Farrell is formidable, with the darkest offers that you can't refuse since 'The Killing Of A Sacred Deer'. And if you thought those were stakes, just wait until Barry Keoghan is holding all the cards. Although James Gunn has nixed the rumours that a Joker series is next on deck. 'The Penguin' has been drawing rave reviews, whilst the misunderstood 'Folie à Deux' has facing rotten cabbages and tomatoes. What people thought Lady Gaga's Harley Quinn (still quintessential) would be, we get in a new born star and queen-pin in Cristin Milioti's Sofia Falcone. A true show stealer, if there ever was one, in a series where she should share top bill. Falcone is a force of nature and nurtured evil. As cruel as the calloused hands of the goons that work their fingers down to the bone, so the crime families can live in the lap of a luxurious life. The 'Fargo' actress shows Leonardo DiCaprio (got to raise that age limit, bro, you gone 50, and that's where the gold is) really fumbled in 'The Wolf Of Wall Street'. And that's how villains are made, as the magnificent Milioti restores order.

Gotham (that was a great show too, by the way), has never looked so cinematic, even on the small screen. And all the players deserve their ball for this top hat production. Props to the costume department too, not only for turning Colin Farrell into Richard Kind, but whoever made the wig for the bald identity of Mark Strong. Best hairpiece since Corey Stoll in 'West Side Story' (face it, that was almost as bad as how his (still great) M.O.D.O.K. looked). I need their number. Strong arms up as Carmine Falcone after the great John Turturro stepped down due to the violence. We were going to say did you see what he did in 'The Batman', but after seeing how one point goes way too far, he has a point, and we respect that. Strong makes his mark amongst an even stronger cast that includes Carmen Ejogo, 'Highlander's' Clancy Brown, 'Daredevil's' Theo Rossi, 'House Of Cards' and 'Jack Ryan' star Michael Kelly, and 'The Promises's' Shohreh Aghdashloo (all amazing). But it's the mothering of Deirdre O’Connell who really gives 'The Penguin' its wings. Showing us just how deep the cruelty of crime touches us all, as it leaves its mark. 'The Penguin' is more than a superhero spin-off. It's a dark drama about those roads in the heart of men, that lead to places you can't turn back from. Don't end up sleeping with the fishes. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Batman', 'The Sopranos', 'Gotham'. 

REVIEW: RED ONE

3/5

Red Notice

123 Mins. Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, Lucy Liu, Bonnie Hunt, Nick Kroll & J. K. Simmons. Screenplay: Chris Morgan. Director: Jake Kasdan. In: Theatres.

Christmas has come early here in the Far East, with the game 'Red One' from 'Jumanji' reboot director Jake Kasdan. And what more could you expect, here in Japan, with a land that changes its Halloween decorations to Christmas ones, the minute we stop asking, "trick or treat", in time for the next rising sun? All whilst pumpkins lay rotting on porches across the United States, through fall. Tested in other territories before its North American release, 'Red One' is not to be confused with the 'Red Notice' Netflix blockbuster Dwayne Johnson starred in alongside 'Wonder Woman' Gal Gadot (although, she does get a hilarious mention here) and 'Deadpool' Ryan Reynolds. Although Chris Evans, blazing after that fantastic cameo, does a good job of bringing that type of heat to these festive proceedings by the fireplace. Roasting everybody's chestnuts.

The naughty and nice pair of Captain America and Black Adam must save Santa before it's too late this Christmas Eve. Just as 'Fast & The Furious' franchise star and 'Hobbs and Shaw' spin-off wheel man Dwayne Johnson got everyone to stop using "The Rock" in the middle of his name, the all action hero in a Schwarzenegger mould seems to be wrestling with the problem that his films aren't making bank any more. If that wasn't enough, it seems his character is losing the festive spirit in a naughty age that refuses to play nice. Let's hope this all changes with his 'Jingle All The Way', as the ever likeable eyebrow raiser has always known that real action men know how to poke fun at themselves, doing so with the wand of 2010's 'Tooth Fairy'. And as self-serious as this Yuletide hit to the frosty jugular is, Johnson is still rocking and rolling around the Christmas tree. Having as much fun as Macaulay with cardboard cut-outs of Michael Jordan and more mannequins than a Kim Cattrall movie. In a few Christmases time, this will be a festive favourite when you're home alone, and you want to leave your brain at the door with the blow torch.

Armed in green and red, hell for leather, turning Hot Wheels into anything but Micro Machines with some tech straight out of Hank Pym's 'Ant-Man' toy collection, this former DC hero is a marvel in what looks like a 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' ensemble, assemble. Be it, with its giant talking polar bears, reindeers, minus the real red one, and a mythological agency looking to take control of its own multiverse of headless horseman madness. Just when you think nothing could get you in the festive spirit, Steve Rogers in a Star-Lord jacket is here to save the day. We all know the inspired integrity Chris Evans had as Cap (he has a Bucky Barnes looking kid here), but he was Johnny Storm before all that. A comic-book 'Loser' with so many hilarious overgrown frat-bro credits to his name. Whether it be 'Scott Pilgrim vs. The World', 'Not Another Teen Movie', or a Marylin Manson video...although we now know who the real douche is. I'm too old to be talking about "eras", but if this was back in time, like these movies, we'd be in his Human Torch one. With this, 'The Gray Man' saving villain, and so much more in store. Like Avenger action figures this Christmas.

Filling your stockings with wish upon a star power, an angel of Charlie, part Bosley, part Black Widow, is also on the case, as it's great to see Lucy Liu back and killing it on this bill. She's seriously good, as is 'Rain Man', 'Beethoven', 'Jerry Maguire' and original 'Jumanji' legend Bonnie Hunt as Santa's better half. Although she is almost as underused as Goldie Hawn in the first 'Christmas Chronicle'. Speaking of the angel in a red dress, aside from many festive treats and Xmas cameos, not to mention a delightfully deranged and daft Nick Kroll, it's the big fella himself who gets all the cookies for this film that's milking 'tis the season for all it's worth. Kurt Russell, Tim Allen, David Harbour, Bryan Cranston, Paul Giamatti, Richard Attenborough, the late, great James Earl Jones. The list of actors that have played Father Christmas is longer than Santa's one. But Academy Award-winning, 'Whiplash' actor J.K. Simmons is whip smart as a protein shake Nick (what else could you expect when you have The Rock to spot?). Placed under your tree for the eve of a Christmas franchise from screenwriter Chris Morgan ('Fast & Furious', 'Wanted') Amazon MGM, Seven Bucks and The Detective Agency, will we see a 'Red Two' like the great Bruce Willis, John Malkovich and Helen Mirren? Let's keep notice to which list this makes. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Fred Claus', 'Violent Night', 'Tooth Fairy'

TV REVIEW: AGATHA ALL ALONG - Season 1

4/5

Harkness On The Edge Of Town

9 Episodes. Starring: Kathryn Hahn, Joe Locke, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, Debra Jo Rupp, Patti LuPone & Aubery Plaza. Created By: Jac Schaeffer. On: Disney +

Happy Halloween! It's the season of the witch and a cosplayer's dream in Marvel's 'Agatha All Along' on Disney Plus. The nine-episode spin-off to 'WandaVision', showing you in Westview, it was all about Kathryn Hahn all along. All as this new Marvel Television syndicate looks to carve its name into Halloween like a jack-o-lantern, after giving us 'Werewolf By Night' in black and white, and then live in living color, over the last two seasons. Down, down, down, the road, down the witches road, it's all a bunch of hocus-pocus, as Jac Schaeffer's ('TiMER', 'Black Widow') seasonal show, gives us, not only a two-episode premiere, but a two-episode finale twofer for your witching hour. Not to mention the sacred chant of a ballad that might just be the best original anti-hero song yet...and we've just had 'Joke: Folie à Deux' to deal with.

Cackle all you like, but this witches brew is brilliant. From getting a gang, that could give Bette Midler and her old crones a run for their warts, together, to paying tribute to the 'Wicked' greats that came before them, all the way to the horns of the magnificent 'Maleficent', as these bad witches go through more classic costume changes than a catwalk, door-by-door (how about the 'Bo Selecta' moment?). Eating the apple, all the way to the compelling credits of witch sightings, stories, 'The Simpsons', and even a Disney one for your princesses. But it's 'Bad Moms' and 'Glass Onion: A 'Knives Out' Mystery' star Kathryn Hahn who will really put a spell on you in this perfect cast. After literally stealing and hijacking the show from Wanda and Vision, she excels here. From the role copped in the perfect pilot, sharing strands with the sitcome 'WandaVision' throwback premiere, to the origin story finale that feels like the longest, and best, post-credits scene Marvel have ever done (although there are actually none). The charismatic Hahn happens to be the best thing on television right now, in a fall season fit for T.V. 

Closing up shop like 'The Old Man' last week and the 'Lord Of The Rings' 'Game Of Thrones' like 'Rings Of Power', it's all 'Agatha' versus 'The Penguin' now to go along with this Marvel and DC war. Our money may be on the waddle, but this witch still knows how to wave a wand. Especially with legends by her side. 'That 70s Show' and 'Friends' star Debra Jo Rupp reprising her 'WandaVision' role. 'Saturday Night Live' star Sasheer Zamata paving her own way on this witches road. 'Orange Is The New Black' star Ali Ahn setting herself free. And the great Patti LuPone of Broadway, the West End and musical theatre giving us perhaps the most showstopping moment of the season. But amongst classic cameos (no, not her) and other big names, it's Joe Locke (the Netflix 'Heartstopper') who locks it down with his crucial character and coming of age and stage performance that confirms him as a young hero for the new generation with avengance.

Legions of fans will be under this spell like they lived in a white picket fence American dream, as safe as suburbia, if your mind stone doesn't have vision. But there is always someone who comes along to spoil the broth and stir up the cauldron. Now Wanda is lost to a 'Multiverse Of Madness', the only one that could possibly match Hahn, charisma for charisma is the great Aubrey Plaza. Sure, she's been a Marvel before, in the legendary 'Legion', X-Men spin-off, but just wait until you see how many familiar faces make it into 'The Last Dance' of Venom, speaking of it being a mad multiverse. Besides, Kathryn Hahn already voiced an all new Doc Oc when she went animated, 'Into The Spider-Verse' with Miles Morales. There's so much Marvel, they have to double-up. And the amazing Aubrey really comes into her own, making a plaza of the powerhouse of a penultimate, epic episode that feels like a finale. No wonder they went two-by-two like Noah for this story arc. Like a 'Simpsons' short sideshow tells us, it really is the most wonderful time of the year, this spooky season. And Marvel Thrursday's are the new 'Wednesday'. This dark comedy fantasy is just the trick. A real treat. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'WandaVision', 'Werewolf By Night In Color', 'Hocus Pocus'.

REVIEW: VENOM - THE LAST DANCE

3.5/5

They Are Venom

109 Mins. Starring: Tom Hardy, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, Stephen Graham, Peggy Lu, Clark Backo, Alanna Ubach & Andy Serkis. Screenplay: Kelly Marcel. Director: Kelly Marcel. In: Theatres. 

They saved the best dance for last. When 'Venom's' lashing tongue, licked and launched its way on to the scene in 2018, a fan favourite finally had his film. Although the screenplay and CGI weren't as oil-slick as the symbiotes skin, it certainly stuck. Thanks to the charisma between 'Legend' Tom Hardy and...well...himself. Yep! You best believe that demonic voice is him, too, as Eddie Brock deals with one parasite that won't leave the body with a round of antibiotics and a good night's rest. It's like your neighbour may as well not turn his music down. Sounding like a chopper barrelling down the hilly streets of San Francisco. Cheers were drawn for the ride of the 'Let There Be Carnage' super sequel, with Woody Harrelson as a villain almost as iconic as our anti-hero. But now it's time for 'The Last Dance' and we're not talking about a Michael Jordan and Chicago Bulls documentary. Although, 'The City' of the Golden State Warriors iconic t-shirt is back.

Dance, dance, dance like Murakami for the previews big in Japan this week. Mixed reviews and fanboys and girls have been met with big returns at the box office already. The kind that the 'Joker' can't even sing for, alongside Lady Gaga. "In Association With Marvel" seems to be the new curse for all Sony superhero movies in the Spider-Man universe that don't want to be the next 'Madame Web', or 'Morbius', disappearing in the same flash as that hilarious photo turned meme of the only other guy in the cinema for the films release. Neither of those movies, like 'Folie à Deux', were as truly terrible as they say. But this symbiote is on a whole other strand of storytelling. Making those other spidey senses on the way look as convincing as...well...my Halloween costume this year. Check Instagram if you really want to see your paunchy neighbourhood Spider-Man.

We all know that Venom is more than that terrific Eminem track, or some of the promotional product placement, rapping with Busta Rhymes, or spitting hot fire on Hot Ones (he needs some milk). Hardy (also on story duty) and his boy just make that much of a classic and compelling superpowered couple. For some reason it just works and what could have been the bane of 'The Dark Knight Rises' actor's life is actually the serious 'Bronson' and 'Lawless' actor just having good, dirty mouth (hearing Venom blaspheme is hilarious) fun. Even if a classic cameo in 'Deadpool 3' is looking like those Wolverine rumours have left the body like a former Topher Grace host. But whether it be Venom frogs, fish, or lions, tigers and bears (oh my!), Hardy and Eddie have made this third act of the trilogy like that horse drawing meme. And just wait until they take a ride on one that is anything but pale.

How fast can they make this franchise go without killing it? Well, there's only one way to find out as you witness the epic conclusion. It's all love over here, with a heart-filled and warming buddy comedy of the superhero genre that just may leave you with more than tears of laughter. Especially in the last epic assemble. This may be Eddie's last dance to a sweet soundtrack. And that's a real shame. We really wish we could have seen the two Tom H's get it on ("never say never"). Being comic teased after that 'No Way Home' post-credits scene that is called back to here with madness for the multiverse. The sequels have already shown there are more spider symbiotes than Iron Man has suits. And this movies own post-credits teases more with a legendary villain motion-captured by the director of the last film, Caesar ('Planet Of The Apes') and Gollum ('Lord Of The Rings') himself, Andy Serkis.

Yet in this circus act, scripted and directed (a dynamic debut) by Kelly Marcel (the first film and 'Fifty Shades' film writer) offers even more symbiotes for the devil and a class cast behind the bullish M.J. of this last dance. An electric and always great Juno Temple is joined by the early Christmas of Clark Backo in the lab coats. And it's great to see 'Peaky Blinders' co-star Stephen Graham back, and doing his best, "no peace" 'Independence Day' impression. Like it is the corner store to Las Vegas of Peggy Lu's Mrs. Chen having the real fond last dance (are they gonna get it on?). But if you thought it was just fellow Bond favourite Aaron Taylor-Johnson's Quicksilver (don't get us started with 'Agatha All Along') making the multiverse a maddening crowd with 'Kraven The Hunter', then a wizarding villain in 'Doctor Strange's' Chiwetel Ejiofor and the lizard of 'The Amazing Spider-Man's' Rhys Ifans (betrothed beautifully to Alanna Ubach and Area 51) are here too. Although, that's it for creepy-crawlies. But with amazing action and spectacular special effects, who need a spider in this verse? This may be Hardy's last dance (thanks for the memories), but Venom is hardly "knull" and void. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage', 'Spider-Man: No Way Home', 'Kraven The Hunter'.

REVIEW: TRAP

4/5

Trap Music

105 Mins. Starring: Josh Hartnett, Ariel Donoghue, Saleka Night Shyamalan, Hayley Mills & Alison Pill. Screenwriter M. Night Shyamalan. Director: M. Night Shyamalan. In: Theatres and concert venues.

Imagine like Lennon. Your daughter's in her "tour era", and a Taylor Swift like artist is in town. You promised her tickets if she got her grades up. And she aced them all like Serena. This is the hottest ticket right now, and everybody and their social media account is going. What's more, your daughter's frenemies (apparently that's a term like "crispy" for all your dad jokes) are in attendance...and you better not show her up in front of them. If that wasn't enough, so is every cop in town...and the FEDS. Because they're looking for you, punk! You're "The Butcher" right? Just kidding. But seriously...if you are. You should probably stop reading this article and go turn yourself in. The trap is set.

"30,000 fans. 300 cops. 1 serial killer. No escape." That's the premise for 'The Sixth Sense' and 'Signs' for twisting and turning, legendary, hit-and-miss (from 'Split' and 'Unbreakable', to the 'Glass' trilogy) director M Night. Shyamalan's latest, and one of his greatest hits. Right now, the 'Old' director is in one of his better eras, following the horsemen of his 'Knock At The Cabin' epic of Biblical proportions. The thrilling, psychological horror auteur knows how to twist and taut your stomach in knots as he swings away. Rarely really scary, but when he is (the uninvited guest at the 'Sings' party (why do I picture that creepy alien in a party hat?)), he'll fry you...literally here. All in the red room of a perfect poster and 'Green Room' like musical escape, no 'Folie à Deux' soundtrack, that will well and truly rock you to the roots of your terrified tension.

Classic cameo? Check! But what's more than this is the show stealing by M. Night's daughter Saleka Night Shymalan in this GirlDad movie like Kobe. Not only providing the music as the Saleka real life singer that she is, but also the punch of some powerhouse acting that confirms her as the new double-act showstopper on this daddy/daughter day, no nepotism. Playing a fictional Swift like Lady Raven, this young woman will never fade to black as she commands stage and screen with a pure presence that feels familiar. Not only making this movie her own, off the big names on the set-list, but also showing the power of social media and a fan following for good across the streams, when the comment section isn't just a big bait for clicks. How can you not like, no love, that? The other daughter making her name is the fan in question, Ariel Donoghue, the 'Blueback' and 'Wolf Like Me' star more than making the grade, wondering why her dad is acting so weird...not to mention, embarrassing.

The father of hers? Hollywood heartthrob turned amazing actor (see 'Lucky Number Slevin'), Josh Hartnett. 'The Faculty' and 'Pearl Harbour' superstar has had quite the resurgence of late (see 'Oppenheimer') after he quit Tinseltown. More profound in his acting nuance as his new calling card seems to be playing freaks (his out of this world performance in the last series of 'Black Mirror'), or those who frustrate us (the niceness of his new husband for 'The Bear'), Hartnett is a hallmark talent who once again is coming into his own. Going from devoted dad, to cringeworthy and creepy in some of the best acting you'll see. Seriously good as a serial killer whose butcher is a cut above the rest. There may be no sympathy for this devil, rolling through the stadium sounds like a stone, but sometimes when you root for him (maybe it's a fellow OCD thing...man, I should turn myself in), you forget that this is not 'The Fugitive'. DAM!

You want to trap a parent on the double? Then who better than the literal twins of 'The Parent Trap' (no, not Lindsay Lohan) in 'Whistle Down The Wind' (a movie based on her mother's book as the family affairs just continue on) legend Hayley Mills on her own career redefining arc for the best movie Easter Egg and in-joke? Making this a mothering movie, just as much as father time, as the third act prescription of a coming of age and her own show stealing Alison Pill is literally what the doctor (or cop) ordered for the film's final furlongs that have more ending than Shyamalan classics have twists. Shot in Toronto (it looks like Philly) and Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, how this Blinding Edge movie, that finally sees the light of day in the land of the rising sun, received mixed reviews is beyond me. Nothing is butchered here in this Shyamalan dubbed "'The Silence Of The Lambs' at a Taylor Swift concert" film. It's a masterclass of an escape room plan, that turns a poster boy into a wanted one and almost gives the talents that his daughter deserves its own movie album like a 'Purple Rain'. Those Prince dreams may not have been quite realized with the young queen Saleka, but the throne is watching and waiting. You can't trap talent like this. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Split', 'Green Room', 'Taylor Swift: The Era's Tour (Taylor's Version)'.

REVIEW: THE OLD MAN - Season 2

4/5

Old Man On Fire

8 Episodes. Starring: Jeff Bridges, John Lithgow, Alia Shawkat, Amy Brenneman, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Navid Negahban & Jacqueline Antaramian. Created By: Jonathan E. Steinberg & Robert Levine. On: Disney +.

Abide. As this old dog still has plenty of new tricks...and canine companions. When we last saw 'The Old Man', Jeff Bridges, he was giving it to people like an equalizing 'John Wick'...no geriatric. What was even more thrilling, however, was his brutal back and forth with the great John Lithgow in a war of words. Not since the sitcom days of '3rd Rock From The Sun' have the legendary Lithgow's barbs been this sharp. Calm down...there's much more of that in the second season of the FX special, that sees the amazing action punctuate the best wordplay this side of 'Succession'. This is why there is still life in 'The Old Man' and the pilot season's seven seals are joined by an eighth wonder. Making for one of the fall favourite T.V. specials, alongside the DC and Marvel war of 'The Penguin' and 'Agatha All Along'. Not to mention the original old man, back in Boston, Dr. 'Frasier' Crane.

Cheers to this Jonathan E. Steinberg and Robert Levine show run creation based on the book of the same name by Thomas Perry. Twisting and turning on this long American and Afghanistan highway, all the way to a tense, thrilling conclusion in a classic American diner that may leave you as isolated as an Edward Hopper inspiration. When it comes to these grey nighthawks, Bridges and Lithgow are on fire. They've barely been better. And this is one man who continues the legacy of 'Tron' and another who's about to be a new pope in the new classic 'Conclave'. But for all the smarts they throw down, dusting off their knuckles and award worthy performances, it's Alia Shawkat who may just be holding all the strings. The 'State Of Grace' star really came into her own in the first season, but now she's holding all the cards. If this really was a book series, then season two would be called 'The Daughter'. What Ali does with just one look, or moment of sheer will, will floor you.

Elsewhere, '24: Live Another Day' action star Gbenga Akinnagbe is a hit, man. Whilst 'NYPD Blue' blood Amy Breeneman has as much compelling chemistry with Jeff "hey, man. There's a Berretta here" Bridges than she did in 'Heat' with Robert "there's time" (heartbreaking) De Niro. Yet, it's Navid Negahban's absolute presence and Jacqueline Antaramian's fierce devotion that cuts even deeper. And just wait until you're reintroduced to someone who is just as scary this Halloween, as they were in the outstanding 'Ozark' series. That show showed you that anything could happen in the blink of an eye. And you won't want to take the open you keep open as you sleep off this ignited slow burner that illuminates the screen like it does in this high definition age of prestige television. Back on the grid, this stitched and weaved action drama title card, composed by T Bone Burnett and Patrick Warren, is about to head for a big third season. Not to mention an alter-ego from Bridges, more sought-after than a guest star, that will show you who this old man really is. DUDE?! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Man On Fire', 'The Equalizer', 'Hell Or High Water'.

REVIEW: WOMAN OF THE HOUR

4/5

Blind Date

94 Mins. Starring: Anna Kendrick, Daniel Zovatto, Nicolette Robinson, Kathryn Gallagher, Autumn Best, Pete Holmes & Tony Hale. Screenwriter: Ian McDonald. Director: Anna Kendrick. On: Netflix.

Be careful what you swipe for in this modern day, digital dating age, but have no fear in selecting 'Woman Of The Hour' on Netflix when scrolling and looking for your next movie night. Let's face it, the streaming service itself feels like a dating app for movies, when in this dazed and confused online age of passiveness, we can dismiss something, or someone, in the blink of a swipe (we can thank 'Minority Report' for that technology). But that doesn't mean you should pass up on this 'Hour', even with the wealth of streaming shows and other massive movies it has at its disposal, outside its original content. Movies on N are usually met with malaise until the Oscar circuit begins. And this 'Woman' is their best shot at awards season since 'His Three Daughters'.

Anna Kendrick really is the 'Woman Of The Hour', in more ways than one. She is one of Hollywood's brightest stars ('Up In The Air', 'A Simple Favour', the 'Pitch Perfect' series), and we already know how versatile she is when making music with 'Cups'. But here's another note. Not only does Anna act up a storm here, she also makes her directorial debut 'Of The Hour', and maybe the best one since a 'Booksmart' Olivia Wilde. All in the same year, great actor Dev Patel got down to the same sort of business in his Jordan Peele backed 'Monkey Man'. But you only have to see Anna's excitement on seeing her best picture's billboard in Hollywood to see how much this all means. Kendrick is on another level. She's not like us. 

Here she plays Cheryl Bradshaw. An aspiring actress who appears as the woman of the hour on a dating game show aptly titled 'The Dating Game' (the late, great singer Cilla Black did it better), looking more for her 15 minutes of fame than Mr. Right. You know the set-up. Three suitors. A screen. Cue cards full of questions, each cornier than the last, as the skin-crawling responses creep in when confidence think its charm. One take on the question beneath the question illustrates this perfectly. Just another case of Saturday night victim T.V. And further rhyme to the reason that we've often looked the wrong way when lost in finding love. This is one way how they used to do it back in the day. Ending up being everyone's entertainment. Despite it being many young heart's dream to be on shows like this. Much like the dream of being a famous actor or actress. A true crime thriller, yes 'The Dating Game' and all that transpired is real, from a screenplay penned by Ian McDonald, 'Woman Of The Hour' isn't just a slice of serial killer history for those mind-hunting shows of that nature. It's also a cautionary tale to not believe everything you see online.

Kendrick kills is. Even though that really is the wrong way to put it. The real killer inside will truly scare and sicken you. Horror actor Daniel Zovatto (in full 'Zodiac' mode, if that murderer was made), follows the likes of  'Don't Breathe', 'Beneath' and 'It Follows' with something so frustratingly frightening, as you just want him to be caught and get his comeuppance. The 'Penny Dreadful' protagonist as an actor, especially in this day and age, is in a difficult spot. To convince us he is someone so cruel, that in real life the wrong people will be convinced that the real actor is just as abhorrent. It's just the signs of a great actor...he's probably a sweetheart. But after watching him in this movie, a part of you will never want to see him again. In a strange way, that means he's done his job right. Even if it feels so wrong. Elsewhere, Nicolette Robinson ('The Affair', 'One Night In Miami...') is convinced she's seen contestant number three before. Whilst fellow Broadway star ('Jagged Little Pill') and singer Kathryn Gallagher (lighting up the screen with actual charm) has. 

Credit Kendrick for actually fully fleshing out female characters in an ignorant industry that reduces these co-stars to the margins. No more is this apparent from Anna in the introduction of Autumn Best, who really is, as she steals the show as the real woman of the hour. Giving it her all, she plays Amy, who is based on the real-life Monique Hoyt. A teenager who was smart enough to stay on the killer's good side in order to try and save her own skin. Also making an appearance are comedian Pete Holmes (who has a funny bit about a suspect Springsteen lyric) and a chameleonic, dynamite Tony Hale as the game show host, based on the late, great Jim Lange. A Toronto Film Festival favourite, perfect down to the poster and its seventies soul. This passion project from Kendrick takes hits at all that is systematic in the misogyny and passive reaction to the murder of women, body, spirit and soul. It only takes an hour (and a half), to see that this is one of the best women in movies. No, scratch that, one of the most important people in the industry. Where the spotlight needs to be shined on the shadier sides. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Boston Strangler', 'Zodiac', 'The Killer Inside Me'.

SHORT REVIEW: THE SIMPSONS - THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

4/5

Terwilliger All Along

3 Mins. Starring: Kelsey Grammar, Maurice LaMarche & Nancy Cartwright. Screenwriters: Broti Gupta, J. Stewart Burns, Dan Greaney & Al Jean. Director: David Silverman. On: Disney +.

What a time to be alive. When your Disney home means you can send up Marvel, 'Star Wars' and even 'Bambi', and not get it in the neck. Kelsey Grammar must be raking it in. Not only has this Beast of an actor (with no CGI needed for all that chest fur) made his 'X-Men' cameo appearance in the M.C.U., post-credits for 'The Marvels', he's also rebooted his fond family sitcom spin-off, 'Frasier' to the cheers of a second season (but can we get a Sideshow Cecil?). And now, it's 'The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year' in the Crane household. As the voice and "eugh, er, eugh, er, eugh, er" as iconic as his radio shrink stars in the latest 'Simpsons' short to celebrate their 36th season and the evil tidings of the season of the witch. Riding in on his own worst enemy (no, not the back of, the Bart...the) like it was 'Agatha All Along'.

'Tis the season to be stabby. Ow-a-ow-a-ow-a-ow-ow-ow. We aren't talking about candy canes and mistletoe, but the real end of the year season that has people falling all over themselves, wanting to leave the pumpkin on the porch until it's as rotten as eggs left from Easter. The trick to this latest short from 'The Simpsons' is that it's like an added extra bonus to their latest, iconic, trademark season starting 'Treehouse Of Terror'. And what a treat as Kelsey G-G-Grammar breaks into song, even more than he tries to break Bart (the "I still can't believe she's not a boy", Nancy Cartwright). And that's not the half of it. Just like the legendary Julie Kavner fronted 'May The 4th Be With You' (for that other most wonderful time of the year) featured all the queens of Disney, Marvel and 'Star Wars', this one caters to all the villains. No matter how many times Thanos (Maurice LaMarche filling in nicely for Josh Brolin) clicks his fingers. It's inevitable that this Plus property will give you plenty of cameos that would look like shameful product placement if it wasn't for the sharp screenwriting of Broti Gupta, J. Stewart Burns, Dan Greaney and Al Jean. 

Tossing salads and scrambling brains. All to give us one of the best Disney designed shorts yet, directed by David Silverman. Come for Darth Vader, stay for those classic closing credits that have become as popular and sought after as 'The Mandalorian' concept-art crawl. Grammar's Bob is the bard that will make this comedy a classic again, instead of the Shakespearean tragedy of this lifetime running achievement of an amazing animation, getting it from rapper J.Cole as he dissed Kendrick Lamar...and then walked it all back like Homer in the hedge. Dubbed as, "music, mayhem and madness", all with a little mirth. Trump on an escalator, tiger's going tiger as Chris Rock said, and Osaka flu. 'The Simpsons' have had a way of Nostradamus-ing some of life's events. And right now it's on the money, riding with the Grammar rodeo that is Kelsey's career-resurgence calling again. And Bob's your uncle. Happy Halloween, Springfield, we love you. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Scaring: 'The Simpsons: Treehouse Of Terror', 'The Simpsons: May The 12th Be With You', 'Frasier'.

REVIEW: JOKER - FOLIE À DEUX

3.5/5

The Killing Joke

138 Mins. Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Zazie Beetz, Steve Coogan, Harry Lawtey & Leigh Gill. Screenwriters: Scott Silver & Todd Phillips. Director: Todd Phillips. In: Theatres.

Madness. Madness? This is 'Joker'. 'Folie à Deux'. A sequel for two. But this time, who's the joke on? And who will get the last laugh in Todd Phillip's madcap musical? If you were never a fan of those episodes of 'The Simpsons' and 'Family Guy' that used to break into song (more annoying than a clips show), then you should probably drop this mic, like those who are afraid of karaoke. Otherwise, 'Joker: Folie à Deux' is actually a singing statement piece of a movie musical that is more than just a love ode to cigarettes and those ol' blue eyes of the great American songbook, as it tries to say something to those glorifying violence and not thinking about mental health. Whether this self-aware and serving franchise, or its fans, are guilty of all that. Although more maligned than Marvel's 'Madame Web' (which back in the early 2000s would have been the movie of the year), don't expect to catch it on Broadway soon. Branded as a 'F' you to fans, it's all coming out now. The review embargo. Todd Phillips, keeping DC and James Gunn (he's not the first one) at a distance. His Thanos like seclusion to the country on the weekend of this film's release. And the fact that apparently this all came to Joaquin Phoenix in a dream.

Sounds like a nightmare. Oh darling, it's much more than that. A victim of its own violence. Rising from the ashes of this explosive epic, Phoenix's Arthur Fleck says he wants to burn it all down in a movie that is part Prince 'Partyman' song and dance, part courtroom drama. Lowering the gavel like the boom of a Harley Quinn hammer. The 'Joker' of the pack in 2019 earned Joaquin his first Academy Award after being nominated for an Oscar for playing Johnny Cash (Boyd Holbrook of 'Logan' fame will take over as the Man in Black in James Mangold's 'A Complete Unknown' Dylan biopic, starring some boy called Timothée). This was the Clown Prince of Crime's second gold statue after the late, great Heath Ledger became the definition of The Joker in 'The Dark Knight'. Word in Gotham is that Christopher Nolan nixed any chance of Phoenix's Fleck putting a smile on his face in the same way as Heath when he still held an executive producer's seat at Warner Bros. Now, fans are crying that Jared Leto is no longer the worst Joker, whilst Phillips is claiming Arthur was never the Clown Prince anyway. Firstly, those deriding Leto need to see his redemption cameo in Zack Snyder's 'Justice League'. He's earned his card.

Secondly, like the classic Cameron Monaghan in 'Gotham', Joaquin Phoenix's 'Joker' was always meant to be an inspiration incarnation. Never the real deal like the legendary Jack Nicholson, Cesar Romero and voice of Mark Hamill. And the same could be said for Stefani Germanotta AKA Lady Gaga's Lee Quinzel, or as we all know her well, Harley Quinn. Her amazing album accompaniment 'Harlequin' offering further rhyme to that reason. Taking over from the emancipation of 'Barbie's' Margot Robbie in the same redefining way Phoenix did when everyone said nobody could touch the legendary Ledger. They still can't. Nevertheless, at least this movie/music mash-up clears a path for the great Barry Keoghan to do his thing in Matt Reeves' sequel after his cameo in 'The Batman'. Yeah, DC is a mess, but at least this crazy in love film tries its best to Bonnie and Cylde ride it 'till the wheels' fall off. Mostly staying on track, despite a derailing third act after Phoenix does his best 'Darrow' impression. Those worrying about the script's song sheet needn't worry. Besides, Gaga's Academy Award-winning 'A Star Is Born' remake (not to mention her 'Maverick' 'Top Gun' sequel song) and Joaquin Phoenix's time walking the line, is fine for all this. Instead, take a look at the amazing animation, that's straight Looney Tunes, that comes before this movie like 'Tom & Jerry'. That's what we need to be talking about.

Phoenix and Gaga stepping up to that iconic staircase, as they dance, are something like a phenomenon like LL Cool J, or John Travolta. Do-do-da-do-do. And a capable cast more than bolster this from the bench. Like the terrific testimony of a returning Zazie Beetz ('Atlanta', 'Deadpool 2') and courtroom scene-stealer Leigh Gill of 'Game Of Thrones' fame (but why did they have to do him dirty with the Yellow Pages?). 'The Banshees Of Inisherin' and 'In Bruges' legend Brendan Gleeson really brings it as an Arkham guard. And Catherine Keener's legal support ('Being John Malkovich', 'Get Out') is as dedicated as they come to this sad clown in a sunken place of drawn out sockets and emaciated skin. Great British comedic actor Steve Coogan also does a seriously good job as a sensationalist TV journalist who could even pierce Piers Morgan. Whilst 'Industry' actor Harry Lawtey is a fresh-faced, will he, won't he, Harvey Dent, trying to bring justice to this circus. Which is exactly what Phillips is trying to do, alongside co-writer Scott Silver ('8 Mile', the new 'Spawn'). Despite no respite from the critical and box office hangover. But it's never as bad as they say in this world of extremes. Just like the perfect 'Penguin', Soprano like series doing the business right now, is no "masterpiece"...yet!

Why do birds suddenly disappear? This jukebox musical and psychological thriller is no horror. It does have its moments. Like when bona fide, 'House Of Gucci' movie star Lady Gaga puts a smile on the reflected face of prison glass, and Joaquin Phoenix (the master of Arthur's uncontrollable laughter through all the tears or rage and pain) moves into it and spreads its blood-red grin with his expression. Or when the (im)perfect pair take each other's hand for a dance that transcends 'La La Land'. Still, fans are furious at this film that takes shots at all those middle-aged men who post those "I'm trustworthy until you cross me" memes with Joaquin's Joker or Cillian Murphy's Tommy Shelby from 'Peaky Blinders' in the background like Tom Hardy's twinning Krays. You know that legend will get it in the neck too, if his 'Last Dance' with 'Venom' doesn't bite their Spidey senses. The outstanding original of a first film, that took cues from Scorsese's 'Taxi Driver' and 'King Of Comedy', was a classic, 'A Clockwork Orange' like cautionary tale. But much like that iconic film, many didn't get it (Heath did), and that's why Phillips and Phoenix decided to take their character back. For better or worse. And now they're being cast out like lepers, as we were all warned about. Maybe this is why they actually did a sequel, as they give the people what they want. Maybe, we should be careful of what we wish for. There's a punchline in here somewhere. If only we got it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Joker', 'La La Land', 'A Star Is Born'.

STAND-UP REVIEW: ALI WONG - SINGLE LADY

4/5

Divorce Story

59 Mins. Starring: Ali Wong. On Netflix.

The last time we heard from super-comedian, the 'Don (Ali) Wong', the 'Beef' and 'Always Be My Maybe' Netflix star was talking about how, although she was happily married and won't cheat, single people have it so much better. And there may be some truth in that, or at least some funny stuff, as Ali takes us through her 'Single Lady' life on her new Netflix special. Ali Wong is now divorced (although she and her ex-husband are still best friends) and has found new love in fellow comedian and star of amazing one-word T.V. shows beginning with "B" ('Barry'), Bill Hader. But that doesn't mean she's not going to give us one outrageous hour of her year leading up to all that.

Bumbling through the apps, propositions coming from more Chad's than a 'Jersey Shore' reunion and more men children than a 'Star Trek' convention, Ali shows us the rights and wrongs of dating in this modern world. Especially when you're hitting the home run of 40, as father time is stealing follicles like Ohtani does bases. Triggered? You bet I am! And I love it! Although I may not be sliding into any DMs anytime soon, men of the world know this. Like climate change, ED is here to stay. And if you're accustomed to that type of pre-game jitters when you step up to the plate, you better head for a different type of home. Does she have to stomp around your fancy place and all that pretentious art like a Disney villain? Besides she has her own house, complete with a Godzilla/Hello Kitty toilet.

This hole in one for Wong is quite possibly her best stand-up special since she had the game in a 'Cobra' clutch. Don't get your tea and rice bowls confused. Behind those iconic eyeglasses, she sees the world like we all wish we could tell it. But we don't have the b###s too. P###y?! Nah! Haven't you heard Trevor Noah's take on all that strength? She'll grab her own one, thank you very much, f### Trump! Especially when she sees the handsome likes of the real underwater eye candy in 'The Little Mermaid'. Hoping that's a trident he's packing, and he really does go, "under the seeeeea"! Let's talk about sex with no constraint in this age of gilded freedom and the "D" word. No, no, get your mind out of the gutter. We're talking about divorce. If you like it, then should have taken a ring off it. Oh,oh, oh, oh.

Thankfully, it seems to have been an amicable one with Ali's ex. But that's none of our business, anyway. What Wong will divulge is the dating game that played out afterwards. The graphic content of these anecdotes will really have you cackling. Especially if you're swiping through more apps than you are wedding dress brochures. Crudely collected in classic one-liners, this is a dating montage that would have made the lovely 'Always Be My Maybe' even funnier. Setting the sliders between 25 and 60, like anyone our age can and should (hello, 49), Wong refuses to live a life of woe, post-divorce. Glowing like the time she took to stage with a 'Baby Cobra'. The Bat-signal the media sent out may have found her the best man, but before all that her life experience makes for a great tale, that's more celebratory than cautionary, in a world where we are all too quick to shame people a few steps away from where anyone could be. No reason to have beef with that. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: Ali Wong 'Don Wong', 'Beef', 'Always Be My Maybe'. 

REVIEW: CIVIL WAR

4/5

Divided We Fall 

109 Mins. Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Sonoya Mizuno, Jesse Plemons & Nick Offerman. Screenwriter & Director: Alex Garland. In: Theatres.  

Captive America. In April, A24 released their most expensive and second highest grossing movie to date, 'Civil War'. So those, "where's the shield and metal arm" gags have had their day now this movie sees the rising sun. There's nothing civil about this war between civilians and politicians, as director Alex Garland ('Ex Machina', 'Men') asks audiences in Japan to watch this with respect in a promotional video, as only this nation would. America actually may be on the brink of another civil war with the way things are going right now, and even the forthcoming election feels like a dog fight. Garland cut his teeth writing scripts for Danny Boyle ('28 Days Later', 'Sunshine') after Boyle adapted his book 'The Beach' to worldwide acclaim. Since then, he's been scripting up a storm (the adaptations of Kazuo Ishiguro's 'Never Let Me Go' and 'Dredd' graphic novels), and being Academy Award nominated for his 'Machina' screenplay which seriously looked at the rise of machines in our everyday lives. Now, with this script, he shows us another fable that could truly become an Orwellian omen, with the best big brother eye on the future since '1984'. One of the scariest movies ever, on 'Contagion' levels (you remember corona, right?)

Brutal, brilliant and bracing. 'Come And See' the movie inspired by said one (that coincidentally came out in 1985) that refuses to explicitly take a side (although Nick Offerman's President of the United States may just remind you of someone), just like it won't let what's happening right now, in the world as we know it, slide. This caustic, cautionary tale isn't just the biggest picture of Garland's great career. It's also the most important one of this, or recent years. We must heed its message before we can't turn back on this road. 'Civil War' is not what you think. Packed with political punch and crowd pleasing lights, camera and action, yes, but rooted more in the journey and journal of war photographers whose job is to show you, and US, just how bad things can get if war is waged. All of this is captured perfectly on the worn and weathered portrait Dunst gives us of a prolific photographer caged behind the camera, as she has to stay at a shooter's emotional distance from the aggravated action. A battle of blood and bullets that is really taking lives. This is no movie. Cameo captured perfectly by Dunst's real life husband Jesse Plemons in an uncredited role (in the same week he's giving Japan three big acts in 'Kinds Of Kindness' in kind). His racist, ultranationalist militant, in tactical red military issue sunglasses, is truly terrifying.

By Kirsten's side, Wagner Moura is a wonder as a journalist itching to get a quote of POTUS sounding off before he bites. This is the Pablo Escobar of 'Narcos' and 'Elysium' scene-stealer's moment. Just like it is the one of young actress, hot on the heels of Dunst, in more ways than one, Cailee Spaeny. Similar to Mia Kirshner's Laurie in 'Mad City'. Cailee has played 'Priscilla' Presley (in 'Lost In Translation' director Sofia Coppolla's answer to 'Elvis') and a Ripley like heroine in 'Alien: Romulus'. All in this calendar. If Glen Powell is the leading man of the year, then she is the woman. But nothing is quite like this, as she goes from being green with sickness and inexperience, to being as desensitized as sadly we all are these days. So much so, we can barely remember when, or the fact that, we weren't. Elsewhere, Juilliard's own veteran legend Stephen McKinley Henderson continues his late career surge ('Lincoln', 'Fences', 'Manchester By The Sea', 'Lady Bird', 'Dune', 'Beau Is Afraid') with a truly affecting performance. Whilst Tokyo born, British actress and frequent flying collaborator Sonoya Mizuno ('Maniac', 'House Of The Dragon') reunites with Garland after 'Devs' and being part of the best dance ever with Oscar Isaac. 

I love America. Always have, always will. But it's in trouble. From New York City to Washington, DC, engulfed in dystopia, this movie has its hold on everybody. All the way to the blistering blitz of a third act that goes out with the boldest bang. The "Western Forces' of Texas and California. The harrowing and haunting reminder of Charlottesville. And just wait until you see the real price of gas these days. Promotional posters of A24 and Alex Garland's 'Civil War' see the Statue of Liberty surrounded by helicopters, with snipers in her crown, acting as turrets. Garnering criticism, in some states, for the use of artificial intelligence to form these photos. But, just like the title sequence of Marvel's criminally underrated 'Secret Invasion', this film's message, in all ways, is just showing you how the world works these days...unless we change. All for the hope of a better way and day. When, right now, the USA is not in a united state. These are signs of the apocalypse, that we can cancel right now. Let's not make this a documentary. War can be over...before it even begins (if you want it). Imagine. United we stand. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Apocalypse Now', 'Children Of Men', NOT 'Captain America: Civil War'...with all due respect, Cap.

TV REVIEW: THE LORD OF THE RINGS - THE RINGS OF POWER: Season 2

3.5/5

The Return Of The Rings

8 Episodes. Starring: Morfydd Clark, Markella Kavenagh, Megan Richards, Robert Aramayo, Benjamin Walker, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Tyroe Muhafidin, Charles Edwards, Daniel Weyman, Owain Arthur, Charlie Vickers, Sophie Nomvete, Lloyd Owen, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Trystan Gravalle, Maxim Baldry, Ema Horvath, Leon Wadham, Sam Hazeldine, Ciarán Hinds, Rory Kinnear, Tanya Moodie, Jim Broadbent & Olivia Williams. Showrunners: J.D Payne & Patrick McKay. On: Amazon Prime.

Fall forces on the small screen will take you towards this coming winter, now the summer of 'Shōgun' and all the other Emmy ('The Bear') and personal ('Only Murders In The Building') favourites have finished (well, there's still one case left to be solved). DC and Marvel are at it again, battling with their villains 'The Penguin' and 'Agatha All Along' for the anti-hero age. But they've got nothing on 'The Old Man' of Jeff Bridges, a retiring (yeah, right) 'John Wick' type, flanked by John Lithgow. And speaking of the older generation, let's not forget 'Frasier' for all those who see family friendly comedies Paramount. But on this third rock from the sun, it's middle-earth that really wants to make a 'Game Of Thrones' like impression on the tube. That HBO series based on a world of brick building books already has its own 'House Of Dragon' spin-off. Whereas season two of 'The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power', from showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay, on Amazon Prime still have their fire-breather locked deep in a cave of gold.

What lies beneath reveals more though for a pair of eight wonder seasons of 'Power' that have been met with mixed and meh reviews from critics and fans alike. But ones that are actually epic and exciting. J.R.R. Tolkien's tomes will always be the thing of legend, and only Peter Jackson has been able to carry on the legacy with his twin trilogies of 'The Lord Of The Rings' and 'The Hobbit', the latter squeezing more movies out of one book than the 'Harry Potter' finale. Jackson will return to action with 'The Hunt For Gollum' (not based on the YouTube classic) when he's finished resurrecting the Dodo. And breathing life back into this franchise takes some of the shine off 'The Rings' that could, at times, use a polish. But then again, what do you expect from a series that is based on appendices? Especially in this day and age where intellectual property of your favourite franchises is bled dry and milked for all it's worth, without a thought. In the second season of this fantasy set thousands of years before the characters you know and love, we finally get to see the rise of Dark Lord Sauron in all his evil glory. Not to mention the forging of the rings, in this epic of Biblical proportions that really belongs on a much bigger screen than your phone...not smart.

Big battles, lavish landscapes and a capable cast keeps 'The Rings Of Power' circling back, even though viewership levels have receded somewhat. Morfydd Clark, Markella Kavenagh, Megan Richards, Robert Aramayo, Benjamin Walker, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Tyroe Muhafidin, Charles Edwards, Daniel Weyman, Owain Arthur, Charlie Vickers, Sophie Nomvete, Lloyd Owen, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Trystan Gravalle, Maxim Baldry, Ema Horvath and Leon Wadham all return. Whilst Sam Hazeldine replaces Joseph Mawle. Nazanin Boniadi makes a departure off-screen. Whilst we still miss Lenny Henry's (still one of the most versatile talents for those who have heard 'The Red Shoes' click) delightful dwarf and his lovely last words. Never fear, the likes of Ciarán Hinds, Rory Kinnear, Tanya Moodie, and the legendary voices of Jim Broadbent and Olivia Williams are welcomed to a middle-earth map that has even more houses than games have thrones. Meanwhile, going back and forth, Charlie Vickers and Charles Edwards ante up the acting. Stealing the show off of stars Morfydd Clark and Robert Aramayo, like an inspired Ismael Cruz Córdova, every time he brings his bow to bear. All of this, and the stranger things of revealing who Daniel Weyman really is (as if you didn't know). For the history of 'LOTR', from Gandalf to Gollum, this show shall pass. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Of The Ring', 'The Lord Of The Rings: The Two Towers', 'The Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King'.

REVIEW: KINDS OF KINDNESS

3.5/5

Kind Of Good.

164 Mins. Starring: Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Hong Chau, Joe Alwyn, Mamoudou Athie & Hunter Schafer. Screenwriters: Yorgos Lanthimos & Efthimis Filippou. Director: Yorgos Lanthimos. In: Theatres.

Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Hong Chau, Joe Alwyn, Mamoudou Athie, and Hunter Schafer. All incredible actors playing their part in the absurd anthology and trippy triptych fable 'Kinds Of Kindness', from great artistic director of our times, Yorgos Lanthimos. One that will leave you thinking, "what the"...I don't even think there's a word in the English language that can comprehend quite what's going on here. And this is what makes modern movies like this (see Ari Aster's 'Hereditary' and 'Midsommar' follow-up, 'Beau Is Afraid', starring Joaquin Phoenix) so damn compelling...even days after you've left the cinema. Especially when they come from the likes of Yorgos, who after boiling and simmering for years with indie classics like 'The Lobster' and the criminally underrated 'The Killing Of A Sacred Deer', hit Oscar gold with 'The Favorite' and most recently, those 'Poor Things'. Now, not even a year later, he reunites with both Emma Stone and Willem Dafoe (also arriving with 'Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice', finally in Japanese cinemas this week) for his most far out film yet.

And this is a guy who broke out with a story about lonely souls looking for love wanting to be turned into an animal of their choice. Well, now Colin Farrell (reunion, please) has seemingly chosen to be a 'Penguin', Lanthimos' new leading man looks to be Jesse Plemons (also about to debut 'Civil War' in Japan this week), who takes hold of the first story in this trilogy also written by Yorgos and long-time collaborator Efthimis Filippou ('Dogtooth', 'Alps' and the rest). Plemons himself, who has emerged from character actor ('Black Mass', 'The Irishman'), to a full-fledged force ('Black Mirror', 'Killers Of The Flower Moon'), is as chameleonic as the director he plays for, rocking the suit, turtleneck and moustache number in the first act. A Matt Damon like star with even more depth, who also reminds you of the cluster mindf### that was his 'I'm Thinking Of Ending Things' on Netflix. This one can be just as much of a confusing and frustrating slog, especially with its epically jarring score from 'Poor Things' music man Jerskin Fendrix. It's clear this was the part that won Plemons Best Actor at Cannes, willing to do anything for Willem Dafoe's embrace (who wouldn't?).

Not that he doesn't excel in the second of these loosely connected R.M.F. (the original title of this movie also considered as 'And') parts that are all distinct in their own right. The second sees Plemons cop character beat down by the fact that his wife has disappeared, and this is where we see a bubbling Emma Stone begin to rise to the crop of this acting talent, just like 'Once Upon A Time...In Hollywood' star Margaret Qualley (much like the 'Drive Away Dolls' hitmaker was and is in 'Things' of this nature). Dafoe takes a back seat in this one, but 'The Front Runner' and 'Jurassic World: Dominion' star Mamoudou Athie is as reliable as partners and best friends come. But who really did come back from that island like many a moon, or astronauts wife stories? Does the Cinderella fit, or is the cat out the bag? Meanwhile, the tortured men's club of Joe Alwyn gets it even worse than he has done from the Swifties, before he shows the dark depths of his acting reach in the third and final act of these staged stories of art house cinema.

A cult following of Willem Dafoe in Y-fronts (and you thought the shorts and high-socks in part one were crazy) and a timid flock of seagulls haircut gives you the last and most lasting chapter of all. Especially as one of the world's best actors, Emma Stone gives you a performance of all her power, alongside a perfect Plemons. The crueller these 'Kinds Of Kindness' gets, the more sculpture strong Stone's craftsmanship does. High-tailing it around in an out of control, Prince purple Dodge Charger that parks like a snake on an oil slick street. Emma gives it her all, in a part that has a compelling cameo from the 'Euphoria' of Hunter Schafer. 'Downsizing' delight and 'The Whale' star Hong Chau gets her licks in too, but it's Qualley on double-duty that dives into one of her best (dual) performances yet. Subtly, it's 'The Substance' of her year. Still with us after the 164 insane minutes of these nightmare scenarios dressed-up as 'Sweet Dreams' for those who are "looking for something" (like everybody is), and willing to do all kinds for it? It's all worth it to see Emma Stone break it down in the most iconic dance since 'Ex Machina'. The human nature of this black comedy satire won't nurture you with kindness, but it just may kill you with it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Poor Things', 'Beau Is Afraid', 'I'm Thinking Of Ending Things'.

DOCUMENTARY REVIEW: WILL & HARPER

4/5

Will & Grace

114 Mins. Starring: Will Ferrell & Harper Steele. Director: Josh Greenbaum. On: Netflix.

You know what it's like when you haven't seen an old friend in a while. The pandemic sure paid hell to all of that. Times, like people, change. And when you reunite, sometimes, there really is a lot that you must get caught up with. 'Anchorman', 'Talladega Nights' and 'Blades Of Glory' funny man Will Ferrell hadn't seen his good friend, Harper Steele, in quite some time. They had each other's backs in the Saturday Night Live salad days, when Ferrell played everyone from Robert Goulet and Chicago Cubs announcer Harry Caray, thanks to Steele's razor-sharp writing. Maybe the last time was during the filming of the Netflix comedy they co-wrote, 'Eurovision Song Contest: The Story Of Fire Saga', and they're not afraid to stick it to their misfire. Even if they reunite for the streaming service documentary, 'Will & Harper', a 40th Sundance Film Festival favourite.

In that time, Harper has transitioned to become a trans woman, and to seek understanding and to see the journey Steele has been on, where there is a Will, there is a way. As the 'Road Trip' star travels across America with his dear friend in a Josh Greenbaum ('The Short Game', 'Too Funny To Fail') directed documentary, with plenty of drama to go with those helpings of humour and heart that looks to make a few stops on the awards circuit. DC, Texas and LA, with all the road stops in-between, Harper takes Will to all the old dive bar and favourite haunts that are usually covered with confederate flags instead of multicoloured ones. From magnificent malls where people dreamed of equality, to Indiana Pacer NBA games looking for change, Will and Harper try to find how many places in the States are united in their cause. One heartbreaking moment over a Sherlock steak challenge goes down with more of a struggle than that time late legend John Candy ate his cube by cube in 'The Great Outdoors'. But another moment at a bar and track will just leave you in tears.

Driving through it all, 'Will & Harper' isn't just a document on the current landscape of America and life in this modern day as a member of the LGBTQ community. It's also a story of friendship and a great American road movie, released just after 'Are You Sure' on Disney +, featuring BTS members Jung Kook and Jimin sharing moments on the road again before their mandatory military service for South Korea. "Thelma and Louise, with a little less death" (but just as many breasts), as one friend and SNL alum says in a sweet swansong. We won't spoil which members of the esteemed cast (who have their own 'Saturday Night' movie out this week too) show up, from nail salons to hot air balloons, but we will say, everybody has Harper's back. Stronger than steel. And how about that parting gift by the beach? The grace of Will and Harper on this 17-day trip, shows you that two friends remain as such, no matter how long it's been. Accepting what's come between. No matter what or who. Now, about 'The Story Of Fire Saga'. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Eurovision Song Contest: The Story Of Fire Saga', 'Saturday Night', 'Are You Sure?'.

REVIEW: BEETLEJUICE, BEETLEJUICE

3/5

Say My Name, Say My Name

104 Mins. Starring: Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O'Hara, Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, Jenna Ortega & Willem Dafoe. Screenwriters: Alfred Gough & Miles Millar. Director: Tim Burton. In: Theatres.

The Juice is loose! Madison Square Garden, late October 2001. NBA legend Michael Jordan is making his second stint out of retirement with his season debut against the New York Knicks...a team he gave nightmares back in the day. It's a big deal, and everybody's in town. Even an esteemed British sports journalist from the BBC, who, although game for giving it his best shot, is as out of his depth as someone trying to guard MJ. Already corrected for calling this game, "a match" (c'mon, guys) he looks for a friendly, familiar face to talk to. And he finds one like you only could courtside in one of his favourite movie stars. Michael Keaton. Surely, this will make great TV, to shoot the breeze with this legend. What could go wrong? He asks him, what does he think of this game, full of first day of the season rust and the nerves and knees of an almost 40-year-old icon. With that iconic Keaton look like he was trying to look for something better to say, he tells it like it is..."f#####g boring"!

"Well, Michael, we are live", the reporter replies, as friendly as the pat on the back he receives from Keaton when the other Michael in the arena realizes his gaff. We're all laughing, especially me and my dad, back home who stayed up to the early hours, U.K., to watch what was our first full NBA game, as pops wonders what all the fuss is about...and I can't blame him. It's a beautiful moment of levity, that not only the game, but the city and the world needed, if you look back at the date at the top of this review. But why are we talking about this, beyond that? Eliciting an even bigger smile through chewed gum from Michael was when the reporter (who probably thought this night couldn't get any worse...and we aren't talking about the wax dry snooze-fest on the floor), talked about what he did know about...films. Introducing the great Michael Keaton as the star of 'Beetlejuice'. Not 'Batman', like that other film with reuniting director of the haunting bizarre, Tim Burton. Going nuts in callbacks itself, from 'The Flash' multiverse, to the 'Batgirl' movie we'll never see. But, The Juice, like another sports star from the 90s who had an incredible run.

Keaton has been keyed in over the last few years. When the 'Multiplicity' star hasn't been playing avian superheroes (The Vulture in 'Spider-Man: Homecoming'), or Oscar winning ones ('Birdman', or, the unexpected virtue of an Academy Award for walking around Times Square in your tighty-whities). The 'Spotlight' star has been acting up a storm on small screens ('Dopesick') and big ('The Founder'). But now, as Betelgeuse, he doesn't give up being the ghost with the most in an afterlife full of the depraved that fits him as fine as that black and white striped suit. The joker of this pack, with wild hair, Flecked make-up and panda eyes, is the surprise treat of the year in a calendar of franchises throwing it back like 'Axel F' on Netflix, better known as 'Beverly Hills Cop'. In the first film, he played around for about as much screen-time as Anthony Hopkins in 'The Silence of the Lambs', but you know that won Sir Anthony an Oscar. Now in the cleverly named sequel (REDACTED...we've already said the name twice), Michael bringing his anti-hero out of retirement, back with Burton is exactly what we need this season, like their way of dealing with the selfie obsessed generation. . Especially now it's released in the rising sun too, with Halloween on the horizon.

Even without Geena Davis, or Alec Baldwin (there's a great cameo here...but it's not them), this silly sequel is a slimy slapstick hit. All the way to the poster callback and arms open wide for old friends like Catherine O'Hara. Still a legend and modern day star from 'Home Alone' to 'Schitt's Creek'. Although we all know who the real star of the show is, Winona Ryder. Throwing it back like her 'Stranger Things' series and not looking like it's been almost 40 years, for the love of all things that are holy for this writer born three years before. Speaking of Netflix haunts, 'Wednesday' star Jenna Ortega truly clicks as the new star of this spectacle, with the future name of this franchise on her lips. A scream in this horror comedy, especially when she brings the iconic dancing back in a hall of rogues for a gallery, scripted by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar. Featuring Justin Theroux, showing that Jasper Carrot was right about lifting a ponytail up and finding an a###hole underneath and a stapled together Monica Bellucci. Not to mention all the shrunken, Talking Heads, 'Mask' coloured suits from Burton's brilliant creature feature box of tricks. And an ace Willem Dafoe (giving Japan all 'Kinds Of Kindness' this week), acting as a detective on the closed casket case. So good, they named it twice. Now, if only we could summon and scare up a third film. Now how would we go abo...BEETLEJUICE! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Beetlejuice', 'Wednesday', 'The Flash'.