TV REVIEW: HIS & HERS - Miniseries

3.5/5

Crime and Punisher

6 Episodes. Starring: Tessa Thompson, Jon Bernthal, Pablo Schreiber, Rebecca Rittenhouse, Sunita Mani, Crystal Fox, Marin Ireland, Poppy Liu & Chris Bauer. Developed By: William Oldroyd. Showrunner: Dee Johnson. On: Netflix.

His. He is 'The Punisher'. Jon Bernthal, AKA, Frank Castle. Given a 'Brand New Day' with 'Spider-Man', and a Marvel Spotlight on Disney Plus after being 'Born Again' with 'Daredevil' last year. A superhero show that began on Netflix, like this true detective one. 'His & Hers', a six-episode miniseries on the most successful streaming service. Based on British novelist Alice Feeney's 2020 mystery novel and developed by William Oldroyd (the Florence Pugh 'Lady Macbeth' movie). Show ran by Dee Johnson ('Nashville', 'ER', 'The Good Wife'), the 'His' used to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge carrying a weighted backpack at the crack of dawn on his way to Castle in New York's Hell's Kitchen. After fuelling his 'Fury' acting by the fact that he couldn't see his new-born. All whilst impressing Leonardo DiCaprio and Martin Scorsese with how he could sell you a pen in 'The Wolf Of Wall Street'. 'The Walking Dead' star is one of the best in the business ('The Accountant', 'The Bear', 'Wind River'), but here he rolls up his sleeves to cop a character that may be closer to this case than he lets on.

Hers. The only match for Marvel's skull and cross bones is the Queen of New Asgard herself, Valkyrie. Tessa Thompson is a terrific thespian, 'Passing' as a blockbuster actress (see, the 'Creed', 'Rocky' spin-off franchise). 'Dear White People', 'Sorry To Bother You'. 'Annihilation', 'War On Everyone'. Her credits are as vast as she is still underrated. But here, the 'Hers' forms a great one-two punch with Bernthal, himself. Husband and wife, yes. But the only thing this his and hers share now is a linkto the case they're both trying to investigate. One with a badge and gun. The other with a microphone and a slot on the 9 o'clock news. There's no his and hers towels. Just hotel ones and towels covering the back seat of trucks, as the only thing more crooked than this case is the cheating that goes on behind the scenes and between the sheets. 'His & Hers' is equal parts hot and horrifying. You'll be scared straight and terrified of who to trust, let alone your own lust.

'His & Hers' is not just a couple on the brink of divorce and cracking open this case that twist and turns more than extramarital lovers. Just outside of Atlanta, in the small town of Dahlonega, there's been a murder, and there's not enough police tape or newsprint to keep the public from finding out what's really going on. 'The Wire's' Pablo Schreiber captures more than what's on his camera. Whereas Rebecca Rittenhouse reveals even more, as Poppy Liu looks to cause trouble too. There is much darker depth in the heart of family, with Bernthal's sister Marin Ireland, and the moving mothering of Crystal Fox. And it's always good to see veteran actor Chris Bauer, on a 'Thunderbolts*' tear recently. But there's a real 'Glow' to this show that comes from Netflix scene-stealer Sunita Mani ('Mr. Robot', 'The Roses', 'Scenes From A Marriage'), about to solve this case on her own, all the way from Boston. 'His & Hers' woke up a calm January on Netflix with an addictive narrative that kept us guessing until the end. It's a shame that was all there was to it. Never mind. It still made a killing. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Lowdown', 'Black Rabbit', 'The Madness'.

REVIEW: TOGETHER

4/5

'Til Death Do Us Part

102 Mins. Starring: Dave Franco, Alison Brie & Damon Herriman. Screenplay: Michael Shanks. Director: Michael Shanks. In: Theatres.

Scared of commitment? Then spending time with 'Together' will make your skin crawl. When Dave Franco ('21 Jump Street', 'Now You See Me', 'Night Shift') and Alison Brie ('GLOW', 'Scream 4', 'Promising Young Woman') wed, they became one of Hollywood's best young talent power couples. Now, for better or worse, they star together in Michael Shanks' (also serving as screenwriter) directorial debut. Joining hands in matrimony with a mysterious force for a body-horror, labour of love that strikes anxiety inducing themes of codependecy right at your nervous system. Now, that's a sticky situation to be in. Like falling through a forest into a cave surrounded by ominous bells with no phone service. Just whistles. So sweaty, you almost might not be able to come apart like held hands after a first date with sparks. But that's not mildew and that odor in your new home ain't mould. Do you smell a rat yet? Because the foreboding signs are everywhere, together.

Wannabe a betting man or woman when I say you'll be haunted by a Spice Girls single off their first album...and not because it's on vinyl? Coming a little closer and setting their spirits free, Brie and Franco have never been better. Not even in their first project together, 'The Rental' of Dave's directorial debut, to be frank. It's Shanks turn to get behind the camera and chair for his opening act, however. The 'Off The Air', 'The Wizard Of Aus', and 'The Slot' small-screen wonder could be the next Ari Aster, after this movie, if he keeps it together like this. Just like the indie film production and distributing company NEON, could be the bright new, electric start-up like A24, in all-caps. Especially if they keep making love stories like this and last year's 'Love Lies Bleeding' (also co-starring Franco). Out in the countryside this supernatural hit should scoop all the indie awards, darlings. Who knew a body horror could be so beautiful? Spiritual, not sensual. You'll more than shudder at the sex scene. This is the best explicit look of love since Japan's 'Romance Doll'. Don't be put off by the packaging.

Straining the skin and getting under it like Scarlett, this film will stay with you, to your core. All the way to a conclusion as satisyfing as the one of a wedded Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch as 'The Roses'. Oddly the two movies, both available to watch in Japan to begin this year, sharing similair themes of love and marriage. But no matter what Cumberbatch and Colman throw at each other from the kitchen, instead of roses, you'll be scare absolute straight here by the things that go LOOK in the night. With 'Weapons' grade unnerving disposition. It really is the era for new horrors, and this one will have you choking on the hair you hide behind (I wish) as your skin will feel worse than what you couldn't watch with '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple'. Brie's brilliant, but at times blind English teacher (they say love is) and Franco's lovesick, but stunted, wannabe musician without a driving license (um) called Tim (erm), act out all of love's twist and turns on one so bright it could burn you. Where no one, and everyone, is to blame. And what of a great Damon Herriman's ('The Bikeriders') concerned neighbour and teacher? I mean, this is a guy that played Charles Manson twice ('Once Upon A Time...In Hollywood', 'Mindhunter'). Contorting and fusing together like a rat-king, this eros in symposium will make purists and Plato proud. The origin and nature of together, forever. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Send Help', 'The Substance', 'Club Zero'.

REVIEW: THE ROSES

3.5/5

A Rose By Any Other Name

105 Mins. Starring: Benedict, Cumberbatch, Olivia Colman, Andy Samberg, Kate McKinnon, Sunita Mani, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Demetriou, Zoë Chao & Allison Janney. Screenplay: Tony McNamara. Director: Jay Roach. On: Disney +.

Coming up, smelling of roses, despite the thorns of divorce, Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman are bloomin' marvellous as 'The Roses'. The great Brits' delightfully dark, disarming and charming chemistry, in this black comedy, is combustible from their very first electric moment in the kitchen, unaware that they're holding hands, that won't part, together. Reminding us of the 'Together' body-horror, love story, from real-life married couple Dave Franco and Alison Brie, released in Japan this weekend, now you can also see 'The Roses' on Disney Plus in the Land of the Rising Sun. Benedict's architect can't stand the heat of an insufferable apartment planning dinner meeting, so he goes into the kitchen of Olivia's head of all chefs. She offers him a bite. He can't get enough of the taste. She tells him she's moving to California tomorrow. He suggest coming along. "We haven't even had sex yet", she protests. "Yes, but that's just minutes away", he replies. DAMN!

Jay Roach ('Trumbo', 'Bombshell', those groovy 'Austin Powers' films, baby!) knows a thing or two about making classic comedies with a terrific twist to the genre's plot. See, 'Meet The Parents', 'Dinner For Schmuks' and 'The Campaign'. But here, he really blends his two-pronged attack of storytelling and joke-making. Sticking a fork in, not one, but two classic kitchen scenes that literally throw everything at you...except the kitchen sink (but give it a half hour and some power tools). Even Ralph Fiennes doesn't have this on 'The Menu'. Remaking 'The War Of The Roses', Warren Adler's 1981 novel, aaand the 1989 movie starring Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner and director Danny DeVito, Roach sets fire to everything in sight at an alarming clip. Two of the best of British, when it comes to thespians and pop culture celebrities, Colman and Cumberbatch seem like a cheeky match made in Hollywood heaven. Especially when you see the name of Olivia's seafood restaurant out in Cali'. But just wait until this couple's retreat turns into 'Send Help' and a therapist couch that takes more hits than Billy Crystal's analysing Robert De Niro.

Colman's cuisine is flying. Meanwhile, Benedict's dream of playing house have done more than hit rocks. And there goes the budget...not to mention, the best YouTube remix video since those 'Fockers' did it with Ben Stiller. Because The Internet never forgets. Olivia couldn't be happier with today's special, Cumberbatch, on the other hand, must be forced to eat humble pie, with a bitter pill. It's also hard for Olivia Colman's character to swallow how Benedict Cumberbatch's stay at home Dad has not only turned their two kids into the next Olympic athletes, but also alienated them from her. 'The Favourite', 'The Crown' and 'The Lost Daughter' actress, and 'The Imitation Game', 'Sherlock' and 'Doctor Strange' actor are amazing on their own, but together...they're dynamite. Trading barbs, physical put downs and more one up man and womanship over contract negotiations (yep...that contract) than the most classic of comedies. A scene with the great Allison Janney channelling Laura Dern in 'Marriage Story' has more bite than its bark, tied up in the corner, when she's let off the leash. The perfect (on paper) pair even have an Alexa like home help called Hal, who would probably even open the pod bay doors for one, if the other one was out of earshot. Who gets him in the divorce?

I give it a year...if they're lucky. In this epic ensemble that plays host to some all-stars at the last supper like dinner table on this picture's promotional poster. All appetizer, main course and dessert served on Tony McNamara's script ('The Favourite', 'Poor Things', 'Cruella') until the satisfying toast in conclusion. Andy Samberg, with some of the best lines, plays best friend to perfection, but it's the wonderful Kate McKinnon who really seduces you, like her offbeat talent always does. SNL misses both members of this husband and wife team. The Roses may need more than a therapist, but there's a doctor in the house. Who? The endearing Ncuti Gatwa ('Sex Education'). But it's Sunita Mani who steals the show, like she does in things like, Netflix's 'GLOW' and 'His & Hers'. Jamie Demetriou is as hilarious as he was in 'Fleabag', and Zoë Chao (Providence, Rhode Island's finest) is as crazy as she was in 'Nightbitch', especially when the pair try their hand at British banter. Winning the bread, this dream home that turns into a nightmare is something you can't separate yourself from. This is one rose that doesn't smell like poo-poo-ooh. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The War Of The Roses', 'The Five-Year Engagement', 'We Live In Time'.

TV REVIEW: THE BEATLES ANTHOLOGY

4/5

The Anthology Album

9 Episodes. Starring: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison & Ringo Starr. Create By: The Beatles. On: Disney +.

Get back to Disney Plus, if you want to spend more time with The Beatles. Mickey Mouse has given the Fab Four from Liverpool a lot of real estate in Disneyland over the last few years. Almost like the Marvel of superheroes, Star Wars and, cue the clouds, 'The Simpsons'. Now, if you thought Taylor had her era here, and from 'The Final Show' of 'The Eras Tour', to 'The End Of An Era' six-episode docuseries coming at the same time, the biggest musician since John, Paul, George and Ringo really does, wait until you see these lads. 'The Lord Of The Rings' director Peter Jackson's almost nine-hour 'Get Back' documentary, taking a look at the making of their landmark last album 'Let It Be', and their final show on the rooftops of downtown London started it all, saving us in our social isolation, coming out of COVID. But over the last few years, Disney Plus have also given us the remastered 'Let It Be' documentary, thanks again to Jackson, and the year that was, the 'Beatles '64' epic. 

Count on more 'Help!' to come from The Beatles original movies before we get the fabulous four ones from Sam Mendes starring Harris Dickinson, Paul Mescal, Joseph Quinn and Barry Keoghan. Not to mention Saorise Ronan and 'Shogun's' Anna Sawai as Linda McCartney and Yoko Ono, respectively. A Starz Original on the streaming service even gives you McCartney's '3, 2, 1', with a little help from his legendary producer friend, Rick Rubin (The Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash's 'American Recordings'), but this is The Beatles 'Anthology' that you've been waiting for, created by the band itself. Nine episodes in the biographical docuseries like no other, not even Tay, Tay, gives us a backstage pass to the life and times and highs and lows of the greatest group of all-time. From studio creation to commercial success. Bowl cut to bohemian look. This Apple Corps series tells the tale of Beatlemania, from the scream of teens, to behind-the-scenes. All restored with love by Peter Jackson's Park Road Post.

The long and winding road of this eight-year band (that was it?!), that will last forever takes you through plenty of twists and turns through their eight day week. But all you need is to come together over the love. From coming to America, The Ed Sullivan Show and Shea Stadium, to causing uproar in Japan when they became the first band to play Tokyo's 1964 Olympic martial arts venue, the Nippon Budokan. Now a regular concert fixture in the city, this writer seeing Norah Jones and The Smashing Pumpkins there in just one-week, last September. But from The Cavern, to the Budokan, these Liverpool lads faced trouble in The Philippines when they didn't make a royal appointment for lunch. Frenzied fans full of tears are bound to break some hearts, and some thought that would be it for the Fab Four, but then 1967 came. And an outstanding output like nothing before, or since. After reloading the 'Revolver', they visited 'Sgt. Pepper's' on a 'Magical Mystery Tour', all whilst giving us 'The White Album' and taking a real trip on a 'Yellow Submarine', before they crossed 'Abbey Road' to 'Let It Be'. And now, a new ninth episode reunites Paul, Ringo and the late George as they try to make new music with old Lennon recordings. One that you can hear, added to the anthology, now and then. Always to return. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Beatles - Get Back', 'The Beatles - Let It Be', 'Beatles '64'

TV REVIEW: TAYLOR SWIFT - THE END OF AN ERA (The 6 Episode Docuseries)/THE ERAS TOUR-THE FINAL SHOW

4/5 ('The End Of An Era')

5/5 ('The Final Show')

Era Redefining

Swiftly, the word "era" has become Taylor's. Even though all of us, not this 40-year-old though, are using it always to describe our everyday life. "I'm in my cream cheese on bagels era." No, you're not, Jack, you're just having a nice breakfast. Enjoy it, whilst we run to work with toast hanging out our mouths. We're in our, "oh DAMN! I'm late again" era. Don't let it go cold for Instagram. Seriously though, Taylor Swift is redefining everything. Music, culture, the economy of some countries. From rerecording her own albums to take back ownership of her masters from the man. To performing all of these albums, or eras, in concert for the biggest tour the world has ever seen on a sold-out stage across the hemispheres. The star who was born to do this is our generations Elvis. And coming out of the cage of COVID, we've never seen a tour quite like this, thank you very much.

I missed it here in Tokyo, but I could still feel the atmosphere outside of the Giants Dome that held Taylor's version two years back. Not sure if I regretted not taking up the offer to digitally pay for tickets from the various X accounts that would be suspended a day later. Anyone in attendance knew they were the lucky ones, mind you. Even the Japanese government reassured the watching world that Taylor would be here just days after she watched her now fiancée Travis Kelce win the Superbowl with his Kansas City Chiefs, like the jerseys that adorned the crowd. If you missed out on a once in a lifetime experience (how does she follow this?), then Disney Plus already has you covered with the concert movie to go along with Miss Americana's 'Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions', behind-the-scenes look at her quarantining to create one of her deepest and best albums to date. But last Christmas, Disney also gifted us with the mammoth three-and-a-half-hour final show of The Era's Tour from Canada's Vancouver, BC.

Now, if that wasn't enough, as a plus, the house of mouse has also given us another documentary to go along with Glen Weiss' great directed showstopper that's available in 4K and Dolby Atmos for all your home cinemas. Featuring, as a treat, the entire set of her album 'The Tortured Poet's Department', that we didn't get from the showgirl's previous set. But the real find for the fans is 'The End Of An Era', 'The 6 Episode Docuseries'. A backstage past to all the inner workings and planning that go into creating and crafting the biggest concert of all-time. Fondly featuring family and friends, this intimate and inspired doc also stars Gracie Abrams, Sabrina Carpenter, Florence Welch, Ed Sheeran, and of course, Travis. Around three quarter of an hour each, these episodes are epic, but they become something else when they introduce us to the cast and crew that Swift states she couldn't do without. Tears will be shed, like when Taylor was deeply affected by the attacks that happened in my hometown of Southport at a Taylor themed dance event for children. And we can't thank her enough for reaching out to meet the families. Purists will love the songwriting process. Fashionistas will say yes to the dress. Yet it's the Emmy worthy, standout episode for Marjorie that gets the most personal. An era to her own. World, welcome back to 'The Eras Tour'. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Taylor Swift - The Era's Tour (Taylor's Version)', 'Taylor Swift - Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions', 'Taylor Swift - Miss Americana'.

REVIEW: SEND HELP

4/5

Colleague's Retreat

115 Mins. Starring: Rachel McAdams, Dylan O'Brien, Edyll Ismail, Xavier Samuel, Chris Pang & Dennis Haysbert. Screenplay: Damian Shannon & Mark Swift. Director: Sam Raimi. In: Theaters. 

Help is on the way this weekend, even if it's not coming. Confused? You will be! 'The Help'. 'HELP!' by The Beatles. Nothing cries out quite like 'Send Help'. The new unconventional and uncensored, big black-comedy, horror hit, with severance satire, from deliciously dark director Sam Raimi. You may know the 'Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness' director for the early 2000's, Tobey Maguire 'Spider-Man' trilogy, like he doesn't know how to find Japan on the globe (peep the promotional video for this help's Japanese release), but we all know that 'Evil Dead' is Raimi territory. And in this survival of the fittest, off a cunningly sly and slick script from Damian Shannon and Mark Swift ('Freddy Vs. Jason', 'Friday The 13th'), if you thought spending a working week with a horrible boss was bad, imagine being stranded on a desert island with them. 

Dragging you to a different sort of hell, this Raimi movie, that will be the talk at the water-coolers come Monday morning, is one of this year's freshest and best. And we've barely left January, let alone the first quarter projections. Being passed up for a promised promotion, 'Spotlight', 'Sherlock Holmes' and 'Game Night' actress Rachel McAdams ('The Notebook', 'Disobedience', 'True Detective') needs to be more 'Mean Girl' than sensible shoes, when a new boss, that makes a 'Horrible' Colin Farrell look nice, comes into the office. 'The Maze Runner' lead Dylan O'Brien ('The Internship', 'Deepwater Horizon', 'Bumblebee') would rather perfect his golf swing than be the perfect manager. And that's just the best of his character flaws. Still, a work trip to Bangkok looks to turn the tide and reveal who really is a team player, one way or another. Or a 'Survivor' contestant, as an audition tape for that show goes office cubicle viral. And you thought sharing a toast point with your pet bird was bad...it is.

This movie will get you, get you, get you as the firing line stakes are raised in a plane crash straight out of Tom Hanks' 'Cast Away'. But washed ashore, with no Wilson in sight, these two conflicting co-workers need to get along and make nice, especially when Dylan won't be doing any maze running for a while. The odd couple must play island house on a film that has palm tree shades of everything from 'Misery' to 'The Cabin In The Woods'. O'Brien, ignorantly hilarious, like he was as a great guest star on 'Curb Your Enthusiasm', won't be mocking McAdams' survival skills, when he can barely carry water, let alone stand. And forget about chopping wood. Rachel is in her element, bringing home the bacon, and us, back to the star power we know her best for. On fire like the torch she carries as she lets her character's boorish and frumpy hair down. She has the balls. Dylan being the perfect foil for all this, as he fails to do anything apart from make our eyes roll. That is, until, he reveals more of his catalyst backstory as both characters reveal their dark depths and sides of themselves we didn't expect or see coming.

We've already said too much. We don't want to spoil the tide of violence and destruction coming in like an amazing monsoon of blood, guts and wild boar and gore. Popped eyes, scalped domes, tuna fish on the cheek, you'll be grossed out in shock and awe by it all, as Sam works his dark, disgusting magic. But that's nothing on the human horrors on dark display here. Straight out a Stephen King play novel. Edgar Wright, who directed his (or Richard Bachman's) book 'The Running Man', which finally crosses the line in Japanese cinemas, this weekend, has a message for 'Send Help', too. He loves it, calling Sam Raimi the "master of mischief." Other people are involved, too. Even though this 'Help' could work as a thrilling psychological play, minus the physical violence. Australian actress Edyll Ismail is the beautiful and kind fiancée, O'Brien's boss doesn't deserve, and 'Frankenstein's' Xavier Samuel, with braces, and 'Crazy Rich Asians' star Chris Pang are the kind of friends from work that would be fake to your face, all whilst having a gossip dagger behind their backs. Yet, higher up, the 'Major League' great Dennis Haysbert ('24', 'The Dark Tower', 'Sin City: A Dame To Kill For') deserves more than to just be here to smell a finger. Still, 'Send Help' is the end of the shift respite you've been screaming for. Hit send on making this your next movie destination for the perfect weekend getaway. Happy to help. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Cast Away', 'Misery', 'The Cabin In The Woods'.

REVIEW: THE RUNNING MAN

3.5/5

Running With The Night

133 Mins. Starring: Glen Powell, William H. Macy, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, Jayme Lawson, Katy O'Brian, Sean Hayes, Colman Domingo & Josh Brolin. Screenplay: Michael Bacall & Edgar Wright. Director: Edgar Wright. In: Theatres.

RUN! After watching 'The Running Man', the Netflix hit 'Hit Man', and the American football, 'Mrs. Doubtfire' like, comedy 'Chad Powers' on Hulu and Disney Plus, it's clear to see (although you can't really see him), that Glen Powell is Hollywood's new master of disguise. Playing priests, business men, and any other hick the Hollywood heartthrob can get his hands on. But it's not like this handsome Dan needs to hide his face, or the 'Twisters', 'Anyone But You' and 'Top Gun: Maverick' star's body of work. Even here, in Japan, when he went shirtless, someone in the audience gave the thumbs up to his partner...it was the husband's thumb. Powell would even be the next face of Tom Cruise's 'Mission: Impossible' franchise...if his Mum would only let him do the stunts. C'mon, Mom, the man was made to wear masks. There's enough on hand, here though, in his new star vehicle 'The Running Man'. Based on the faster than a speeding bullet novel by Richard Bachman (you might know him better as Stephen King) and the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger movie, that with an Easter Egg here, is right on the money.

Glen gives this movie, and his latest Hollywood run, all he's got. A blue-collar Carhartt, assembly line worker who just wants to provide for his wife (a wonderful Jayme Lawson of 'The Batman' and 'Sinners' fame) and sick daughter. There's a whole host (with 'Will & Grace's' Sean Hayes, quiff bouffant) of game shows Glen Powell's Ben Richards could try his humiliated hand at, but the one that pays out the most is, 'The Running Man'. And it has nothing to do with the famous Bobby Brown dance. That's not its prerogative. Ben could win a billion dollars, be set for life, and he only has to work for a month. Sounds like a lay-up line milk run, right?! Well, not when there's a price on his head and a bounty of hired goon hunter killers on his tail. And you thought, like Quentin Tarantino, that 'The Hunger Games' was bad. Running up more hills than a kid from 'Stranger Things' in a coma, listening to Kate Bush, everyone with a smartphone in sight can cash in on turning Richards in, to boot. Will he live? Tune in and find out. But what really makes a killing is the hits to reality TV and smartphones (not to mention this day and age of deepfakes), in this science fiction satirical action given to us by 'The Cornetto Trilogy's' own, Edgar Wright ('Last Night In Soho').

Executive produced by human horror maestro, Stephen King himself, who better than the 'Baby Driver' energy of Edgar to deliver this epic? Especially now he has a real action man to pose and play with. Wright even takes a shade swipe at Netflix for giving the game away when it came to 'The World's End'. Speaking of spoilers, one of the coolest characters is the "back at ya", grenade kicking, masked leader of the hunters. We shouldn't reveal who he is, just in case, but it's a nice surprise. Even though this cult favourite elicits more "okays", than "oooh's", he still scene steals. And that's pretty hard when you have the poster boy power of Powell lighting everyone up, from apartment breaks ("Y") to running through the night more than Lionel Richie, in a commanding performance. This movie isn't the biggest hit, man, but that doesn't matter. And like that aforementioned Richard Linklater film, it's different to what you expected it would be. And that's what makes it Rotten Tomato fresh. Despite the mixed reviews and the fact that it was a box office bomb. But who really makes a billion dollars these days?

This man. No, not me, Powell. Amongst a whole host of famous faces and ones making their own name. Wright reunites with 'Scott Pilgrim vs. The World' screenwriter Michael Bacall ('21' and '22 Jump Street') and another Michael, in 'Scott Pilgrim' himself, Michael Cera (a surprise that really shouldn't have been spoilt in the opening credits), having a whole host of 'Home Alone' fun in his super soaked, with tears of laughter, booby trapped house. There's also a brief, but brilliant, and somewhat beautiful, turn from the great William H. Macy who has been ace acting with aplomb recently (see the 'Train Dreams' he should have been nominated for on Netflix...sorry, Edgar). 'CODA's' Emilia Jones, 'All American' British actor Daniel Ezra and 'Love Lies Bleeding' talent Katy O'Brian ('Twisters', 'Mission: Impossible-The Final Reckoning'), also make their mark, but it's the greats that have the most glorious time. Especially the forever flamboyant Colman Domingo's ('Rustin', 'Sing Sing', 'The Color Purple') gaudy and great host of proceedings. And the Thanos villainous Josh Brolin, continuing his latest mean streak after 'Weapons' and the 'Knives Out' mystery 'Wake Up Dead Man'. We hope this one doesn't die out in this film's wake, because Glen Powell has what it takes to run this Hollywood game all the way to the bank. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'The Running Man (1987)', 'Hit Man', 'The Hunger Games'

ANIME REVIEW: CAT'S EYE

4/5

Catwomen

12 Episodes. Starring: Alexis Tipton, Masato Kamiya, Mitsuko Asatani & Toshiro Fuji. Screenplay: Hayashi Moribaith. Director: Yoshifumi Sueda. On: Hulu & Disney +.

The cats are out the bag again. From 1981 to 1985, when this writer was born (feel old yet? Because I sure do), manga writer and illustrator Tsukasa Hojo's 'CAT'S♥EYE' was serialized in the Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine. The manga concerned three sisters, Hitomi, Rui and Ai (here voiced by Alexis Tipton, Masato Kamiya and Mitsuko Asatani), who worked in a local coffee shop, but moonlighted as a trio of catsuit wearing thieves who stole all the art back, 'Monuments Men' meets 'Robin Hood' style, from the corrupt men who took it from the original artist, without so much as an Instagram credit, their dearly departed father. Smartphones and other modern gadgets bring these three French inspired Hepburn's up to date, but this is still as 80s (hello, Tim Burton era 'Batman' grappling hooks) as all the 'Akira's' and 'Ghost In The Shell's' it shared shelves with. And now, after years of science-fiction anime movies, this crime caper finally gets the amazing adaptation it deserves on Hulu and Disney Plus.

Investigated at the same time as those super sleuthing members of the 'SpyXFamily', 'Cat's Eye' looks more to the mature crowd with a dozen delightfully engrossing episodes. But subscriber, beware no more. There is not a trace of misogyny in this throwback animation that feels as fresh as an 80s redux, maintaining its vintage aesthetic. These feminist fashionistas are back in style and showing you more substance to their life and crimes. But their backstory is about as self-explanatory as the fact that Anya likes peanuts. Even if the kinetic plot takes you all over the place and Tokyo (and my new Yokohama home) via fast and furious cool car chases and amazing action heading to an island in the sun. The only one out of sorts, might be Hitomi's detective boyfriend (voiced by Toshiro Fuji). But we'll just blame being a star-crossed lover, with manga hearts in his eyes, for an otherwise outstanding and compelling, just like the real relationship he partners up with, character.

You see, this city hunter (who could just as easily find himself in that anime of the same name), hasn't got a clue to being wise to these sister's act. Even though the big-three cat burglars, with a calling card Paul Allen would be proud of, use the same logo and colour scheme for the coffee shop they work in...also called 'Cat's Eye'. Only the same shop this detective inhabits daily, as part of the furniture, for that damn, good coffee. I mean there's three of them for crying out loud. And this week may be setsubun in Japan, but I don't see many masks, like everywhere outside of the land of the rising sun, post-COVID. Pretty, but dumb, this pretty dumb detective has other street smarts and as my Dad always says, without this plot point it W.M.A.S (wouldn't make a story). And what a great one this is, directed by Yoshifumi Sueda and scripted by Hayashi Moribaith with original due diligence. All the way down to the meows of the terrific theme from My Hero Academia' composer Yuki Hayashi. Especially with the GoPro like eye's perspective of the classy closing credits. Catnip for fans of felines and old school Japanese anime art. When it comes to 80s nuanced nostalgia, these cats have the cream. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Thieving: 'Arsene Lupin The Third', 'Holmes In Kyoto', 'City Hunter'.

REVIEW: WAKE UP DEAD MAN - A 'KNIVES OUT' MYSTERY

4/5

Dead Men Tell No Tales

114 Mins. Starring: Daniel Craig, Josh O'Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, Thomas Haden Church & Jeffrey Wright. Written & Directed By: Rian Johnson. On: Netflix.

Hallelujah! Awoken like HIM risen, we've finally got 'round to waking up the dead man. Apologies for the lateness. 'Wake Up Dead Man', the latest in the revelatory Rian Johnson's detective Benoit Blanc mystery (now a trilogy), had its world premiere, September 6th, at the Toronto International Film Festival, before screening at select theatres November 26th. Then, it made its streaming debut, on its Netflix home, on the twelfth of December. Saving it for coming home for Christmas to see my family, I waited a couple of weeks, but you know how the hoildays, and the New Year, gets. So finally, we got into it this weekend, albeit with screen sharing difficulty now that Skype is gone ('Past Lives' really was a love letter to all we lost). And a minor emergency across the sea. It involved a spillage. We'll pick up the rest next week. Come on up to the house, like Tom Waits singing the closing credits. A good film for Friday for your sins.

A week before that I wasn't late for the latest big-budget Netflix release. 'The Rip', starring Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and a whole host of Hollywood stars in an epic ensemble (much like this all-star cast). In promoting that movie, the 'Good Will Hunting' pair revealed that one of Netflix's provisos is that they reiterate the plot every fifteen minutes all for those glued to their not so smart phones. Perhaps that blank space and stare of audience attention is why every one of these Blanc sequels, like the great 'Glass Onion', are dubbed 'A 'Knives Out' Mystery'. It hasn't been about the blades, minus the murder weapon that goes in, since the original movie that saw Ana de Armas throw up all over the iconic cable-knit sweater of Captain America himself, Chris Evans. Perhaps if we really want to identify these movies, like Bond...James Bond, we should call them 'A Benoit Blanc Mystery'. Because just like Daniel Craig ('Queer', 'Cowboys & Aliens', 'Logan Lucky') is getting as well known for this agent like he was 007, the character of Blanc is finding his magnified way next to all the Sherlock's and Poirot's of the genre.

Staining the glass and ringing the church bells. Whether it's a 'Thursday Murder Club', or 'Agatha Christie's Seven Dials' (both also on Netflix), sleuthing is back in fashion. Especially when it comes to the dashing Daniel. The accent and rich tan certainly helped him shake off the stirring Her Majesty's secret service suit, but in this one, the GQ tailored Dick Tracy garb is joined by some floppy and fancy hair, flowing free. A character in itself, like the many mannerisms and engrossing expressions Craig's Benoit pulls when trying to solve who pulled all this off. This time, you're drawing a blank with Monsieur Blanc until he appears at the church steps about an hour in to the movie. But what an entrance. Never mind, though. The rest of the ample cast more than measures up to set the scene. So much so, you almost forget about Daniel Craig, until he reminds you how could you. Especially our narrator, in the form of young King Charles himself, Josh O'Connor's ('The Crown', 'Challengers', 'La chimera') bare-knuckle priest. Perfect in his performance.

He'll tell it like this. There's been a murder and there's some missing inheritance to boot. The rest, we'll leave it up to your own discovery as this mystery peels back even more layers than an onion that shatters. It's a great yearn though, highlighted by some stellar performances across the pews. At the pulpit, Josh Brolin ('No Country For Old Men', 'Sicario', 'Weapons') delivers divisive sermons, more controversial than Thanos, all whilst looking like Kris Kristofferson (thanks, Mum). But it's the great Glenn Close who owns all of this, by his side, reuniting with Netflix after their 'Hillbilly Elegy'. Mila Kunis also cops a role alongside Hawkeye Jeremey Renner. There are so many stars in this, even the legacy making likes of Kerry Washington are further down on the call-sheet than they deserve. The great Jeffrey Wright also bookends this story with his gravelly gravity. Still, whether it's rising star Cailee Spaeny ('Priscilla', 'Civil War'), or 'Ripley' and 'Fleabag's' Andrew Scott not playing a sexy priest here (believe it or not). It's veteran Thomas Haden Church ('Sideways', 'We Bought A Zoo' and Spider-Man's Sandman) and newcomer Daryl McCormack ('Peaky Blinders') who steal the show. There is great grace in this film. The mystery of this dead man's wake goes all out. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Knives Out', 'Glass Onion - A 'Knives Out' Mystery', 'Agatha Christie's Seven Dials'.

TV REVIEW: ARE YOU SURE?! - Season 2

3.5/5

Sure Thing

8 Episodes. Starring: Jimin & Jung Kook. On: Disney +.

Are you ready, ARMY? It's time to call it a comeback. Now all members of South Korean pop phenomenon BTS have completed their mandatory military service, the group will return with their first full-length studio album in six years, 'ARIRANG', marching forward in two months time. Not to mention, the sure to be sold out in seconds world tour to follow. RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jin, V, Jung Kook and Jimin. The last two, most recently giving their final salute as RM's sax played in spirit. But before coming home, after being discharged from the other army, Jimin and Jung Kook went on another trip to film the second season of their 'Are You Sure?!' travel show on Disney Plus, just a fortnight later.

New York, USA and Sapporo in Hokkaido, Japan set the scene for season one of this offbeat, irreverent travelogue of sorts, right before they enlisted. Season two sees the pair take a plane to Zermatt, Switzerland, bringing back memories of a sweet sixteen trip there with my parents. Not to mention, some of the most moving moments on the iconic K-Drama, 'Crash Landing On You'. Even the mountainous peaks of the Matterhorn could give Japan's Mount Fuji a run for its altitude. After a brief break in Zurich, the boys then send postcards and lanterns from their Asia neighbouring Vietnam, Da Nag to be exact, for an eighth wonder of a final adventure. But what they do in these lavish locations is even more impressive than the views at night. If they're not jumping off mountains and boats, they're having ships drag them into the sky as they scream and laugh with the pure euphoria and delight of youth.

Classic camaraderie. It's hard for this not to all be contagious, even for the most hardened cynic. Sure, watching these guys eat will wear on you worse than if you were actually left with the bill. And these hour or so long episodes from season one now come in at a movie runtime length here. Some fat could be trimmed, like these guys on the treadmill before they get ready for the big Bangtan comeback. Hardcore ARMY fans will love it but miss last season's special guest V, too, but Jung and Jim still call up RM, Jin and J-Hope on the phone. All whilst constantly dancing to Hope's 'Killin' It Girl'. It's clear the love has always been there. Never to be lost. And there's just something endearing about this designer TikTok/YouTuber show, complete with cute video game sound effects and hilarious edits. You'll cry too, with laughter, as you watch how these guys play games with their staff. CHAM! CHAM! CHAM! Forget singing for your supper. These squad members compete in charades and neologisms all to have more time on their phones. Because digital minimalism is the trend this season. And once these guys have their phones locked away on a timer, they, and we, may just realize life is better off lived without them. Now, that's for sure. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Jung Kook: I Am Still (The Original)', 'Travelling With SnowMan', 'Friendcation: In The Soop'

REVIEW: THE RIP

3.5/5

Good Rip Hunting

113 Mins. Starring: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Sasha Calle, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Scott Adkins & Kyle Chandler. Screenplay: Joe Carnahan. Director: Joe Carnahan. On: Netflix.

A.W.T.G.G. Are we the good guys? That's what's tattooed to Matt Damon's hands on his new movie 'The Rip', streaming now on Netflix, for all those who don't fancy making a pilgrimage to 'The Bone Temple', '28 Years Later' (do so). And when it comes to Artists Equity, like his company with constant collaborating co-star and frequent flying friend, Ben Affleck, it appears they are always and always will be. The dynamic duo's (even though one never got to play Robin) revolutionary company promises fair pay across the board for cast and crew. And now, with their new deal with the world's most successful streaming service, everyone on board will receive a bonus if this big picture is a hit. That's worth hitting the "continue watching" tab for. And we promise you, this all-action affair with tense and thrilling twists you'll never see coming is no rip. It's the real deal, Holyfield.

Hollywood heavy hitter movies usually end up fair to middling on Netflix. See, 'The Gray Man' with Ryan Gosling and a charismatic cap villain in Chris Evans. More 'Red Notice' picture perfect postcard locations than movie quotations. Yet 'The Rip' tears apart all of that. Sure, it doesn't raise any cerebral questions, like the life and death, biblical proportions of '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple', disguised as a zombie movie, but it does the stakes. Right there with some of its better TV shows, like Jude Law and Jason Bateman's 'Black Rabbits'. Or the new 'His & Hers' of Tessa Thompson and Jon Bernthal. And that is thanks, in part, to the classic combination and perfect partnership of Matt Damon and Ben Affleck in this hit flick about cops and those crooked ones that may as well be robbers. Affleck plays gruff, disgruntled police to perfection (after all, he was 'The World's Greatest Detective') and Damon, again on another rich form, is like you've never seen him before. All before 'The Odyssey' of what could be his best year yet. Stepping it up, like he always does with Nolan.

Affleck was one of the only outsiders able to visit Christopher's set. That's how tight he and Damon are. They've appeared together in more movies recently. Their 'Rashomon' inspired 'The Last Duel' with Ridley Scott. Or how Nike wooed Michael Jordan with Amazon's 'Air' (amazing). But this is 'Dogma' nostalgia for the kids who came up writing their career path and are now legends in the game. A nice nod to 'Good Will Hunting' is so beautiful you may actually just tear-up with the subtle symbolism, as it's clear these men have made no mistakes in the movies. Matt also tells us, in this perfect plot, that Netflix movies actually demand that the plot points be reiterated several times over the movie for those stuck on their phones (at least they don't watch the movie on those). But in this artillery of action, even the most ardent and aggressive scrollers will have their attention attached back. Affleck has been known to direct great gun play like Michael Mann (see, 'The Town' and 'Live By Night'). But this ain't him. Instead, 'The Rip' is written and directed with dynamite by Joe Carnahan ('Bad Boys For Life', 'The A-Team', 'Smokin' Aces'), running carnage. Not to mention, blood, guts, bullets and high octane, in this pride and glory.

It's also not just Affleck riding shotgun (and deft with one in the driving seat) with Damon in this cop car. An all-star cast with that Netflix money makes for an epic ensemble. There's beef with the good two service issue shoes of Steven Yeun, whose stock continues to rise thanks to going by the script or recent successes. Speaking of which, newly minted Golden Globe Winner Teyana Taylor ('One Battle After Another', last year's best) is here too. Undeniable as always, but a little underused, as never again she will be. These bad boys, in Miami, Dade, have further South Beach heat brought out by 'The Flash' of 'The Young and The Restless'' very own Sasha Calle. Batman has his work cut out for him with this Supergirl, although they've never actually met before (that was Keaton). Her late grandmother's house has much more inheritance to it than meets the eye and the corrupt cops and cartel that will come out of the woodwork, like mice, to play, like warriors when glass bottles shatter on silent sidewalks. Come out, rising star Catalina Sandino Moreno ('Maria Full Of Grace', 'A Most Violent Year', 'Ballerina'), martial artist Scott Adkins on delightful desk duty and legend Kyle Chandler. You won't know what's what. Or what or who hit you. And that's precisely what 'The Rip' wants. Right on the money. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Triple Frontier', 'The Town', 'Training Day'. 

REVIEW: 28 YEARS LATER - THE BONE TEMPLE

4/5

The Bone Collector

109 Mins. Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Jack O'Connell, Alfie Williams, Erin Kellyman & Chi Lewis-Parry. Screenplay: Alex Garland. Director: Nia DaCosta. In: Theatres.

Seemingly 28 minutes later comes '28 Year Later: The Bone Temple'. Not to be confused with the '28 Years Later' predecessor that came just over a half year ago. Although these two, streaming service search confusions of the future, were shot back-to-back for the '28 Days Later' post-apocalyptic horror franchise from director Danny Boyle ('Trainspotting', 'Slumdog Millionaire', '127 Hours') and writer Alex Garland ('Ex Machina', 'Annihilation', 'Civil War') that never gave us any months. Garland's been here for the last few weeks, but Boyle sits out of this one. He'll be back for the next and final chapter, mind you, which will also see the return of fellow executive producer and the first film and franchise's original face, Cillian Murphy ('Sunshine', 'Peaky Blinders', 'Oppenheimer'). As if you didn't know who that guy was. Breaking through to the other side the first time we saw him alone in hospital scrubs, walking a cleared Big Smoke. 

'Top Boy' director Nia DaCosta ('Candyman', 'The Marvels') handles directing duties here, and her vision is a vivid one. Danny has a champion with this one, much better than when he gave the game up for '28 Weeks Later', which is still a decent horror flick. This franchise has given us all sorts of stars. Naomie Harris. Idris Elba. Jeremy Renner. Most recently, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer. But lately, among the blood and guts of zombie-land movies and shows like 'World War Z' and 'The Walking Dead' (to bite at just a few), the twin '28 Years' films have been much deeper and darker fare. As cerebral as they are compelling. Not to mention as twisted as they are terrifying. Mining this sort of metaphorical storytelling substance from a genre that was in style maybe, say 28 years ago (sorry, I couldn't resist). Who would have thought it? Yet, it's all thanks to the great Ralph Fiennes ('Conclave', 'The Menu', 'The King's Man'). M's 'English Patient' has been on a tear lately. And as an iodine saturated medicine man, some will see as a quack, he gives us and this double-act its beating heart and human touch. And just wait until he takes the needle off Depeche Mode and drops it on Iron Maiden.

Brutal, but beautiful, welcome to 'The Bone Temple'. Equal measures disturbing and touching. Sometimes you'll be moved to genuine tears and won't be able to hold back your sobs. Others, you'll barely be able to look at the screen or hold your lunch. Be warned, whichever one you're not comfortable with. If not both. Personified perfectly by '28 Years Later' breakout star Alfie Williams ('His Dark Materials'). Doing for fear itself what multiple award-winner and next one up, Owen Cooper did for the anger of 'Adolescence'. During the post credits ("...") of the last film, we saw him rescued by a gang of blonde wig wearers led by Jack O'Connell ('This Is England', 'Unbroken', 'Back To Black'). But was he really? And did you hear right? Yes, for the second one. The 'Starred Up' star, with shades of his 'Sinners' demon, plays a satanist called Sir Jimmy, who leads a gang of members who all also call themselves Jimmy (including a standout Erin Kellyman ('The Green Knight', 'Solo: A Star Wars Story', 'The Falcon and The Winter Soldier')). Hmm!

Now then, having a trackie and gold chain wearing gang is too close for comfort, even without the cigar. A curious choice at best, this gang who grew up watching the Teletubbies also seemingly, albeit not stated, take their look from Jimmy Saville. The disgraced TV presenter whose abusive acts and callous crimes are too dark and disturbing to report here. No amount of O'Connell charm (so honest and good in the West End adaptation of Tennessee Williams' 'Cat On A Hot Tin Roof' with Sienna Miller, almost a decade back now) can get past that and one truly horrific scene that more than shows that the real horror comes from humanity, like a Stephen King novel. Yet, the actor himself has remarked that this is Garland's social commentary on the dangers of idolizing a figure that may be hiding who they truly are, as this Sir Jimmy and his disciple like Fingers (yep) show us what happens to a revolting youth with no parental, or guardian guidance. And remember, they were just kids watching Tinky Winky and Dipsy when the virus hit. Perhaps coloured costumes and aerials on their head would have been better. Now, how's that?

Contrasting that elsewhere in this legendary, guerilla franchise with the iconic theme, and even deeper ones to match, is the bromance bond between alpha Samson and new franchise favourite, Fiennes. If you thought Chi Lewis-Parry bared all in the last film (he really did, Karl-Anthony Towns voice), then just wait until you see this one. His zombie head won't be the only thing that's talked about this time 'round, as the mind moves more towards hope after the last inspired instalment made for a truly moving movie, shrouded in sorrow and that dark ache of despair. To say more would be to spoil, but it's time to start mocking up those IMDB and Wikipedia pages for Lewis-Parry because he really can act. Not just some big guy with a big, ahem. He really finds the beating heart below the beast that rages inside (steady) influencing even more insight into this Z genre, and its viral message. One that looks to continue via the big-three of Boyle, Garland and Murphy's lore. Back to basics, the franchise fans will love it. But these films are nothing now, especially when it comes to feeling, without the temple of the dog. Bones and all. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: '28 Years Later', '28 Weeks Later', '28 Days Later'

TV REVIEW: SPY x FAMILY - Season 3

4/5

Spy Hard

13 Episodes. Starring: Takuya Eguchi, Saori Hayami & Atsumi Tanezaki. Director: Yukiko Imai. On: Netflix, Disney +, Amazon Prime, Crunchyroll.

Twilight, Bond and peanuts fans, report for duty! The master spy, assassin, telepath and precognitive pup of 'Spy x Family' are back for a third season on every streaming platform known to man, or dog. It's only been a few years since their big-screen hit ('Spy x Family - Code: White'), but these spies, with more dashes and colons than a Tom Cruise accepted franchise, are still on every other t-shirt and backpack walking around Tokyo and all surrounding cities. Based in the pseudo Berlin of the beautiful Berlint, this amazing anime, adapted from the massive manga by Yukiko Imai, stars Takuya Eguchi, Saori Hayami and Atsumi Tanezaki as the fond Loid, Yor and Anya Forger. But there are a whole host of popular characters outside this nuclear family dynamic. Not to mention Bond...the dog, Bond. Cue the cute season finale, post-credits animation.

Some serious spy stuff is going on this time out. Epic espionage and some awesome animated action that will remind you of when Charlize Theron lost a tooth tooling around Berlin as an 'Atomic Blonde', whilst James McAvoy told us how much he loved this city. So much so, there are some episodes where the forever cute Anya is on a milk carton...or is that a peanut box? But when she does take classic centre stage, you won't know what hit you, like the first episode, under construction. Especially with a bomb on a bus that could even send that Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves hit into cruise control. Yet, with lake house beauty, this show that really is about family, like the avatar of a 'Fast & Furious' vehicle, finds more gold in its past. Heartbreakingly so, as you find out all about those childhood friends on the moving 'Actor' closing credits sung by Lilas Ikuta. The deepest and darkest season yet, albeit still with that heartwarming sense of hope.

Same song for the water pistol child's play of the outstanding opening, directed by Shingo Natsume, featuring 'Hi o Mamoru' by top Japanese band Spitz, that really protects the light. From Official Hige Dandism to Bump Of Chicken, it's always the case that this show's music really sings, with a file of hit themes, too. It's quite the jacket, like Loid's racing green suit, which offers even more substance to this stylish and slick series, making its anime name alongside the more teen and adult content of 'The First Slam Dunk' and 'Kaiju No. 8'. This beast is a slam dunk too, not to mention a master of disguise with dialogue as thrilling as its hand-to-hand combat. Sleight-ly delivering you a fall reckoning package of 13 episodes (lucky for us) that we couldn't wait to open just before Christmas. We just hope the end of this new year sends us on our next mission. The impossible one may be done, but we're not ready to say goodbye to this family of spies. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Spy x Family: Code White', 'Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning', 'Atomic Blonde'.

TV REVIEW: THE LOWDOWN - Season 1

4/5

The Low Down Theory

8 Episodes. Starring: Ethan Hawke, Kaniehtiio Horn, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Scott Shepherd, Michael Hitchcock, Tracy Letts, Michael "Killer Mike" Render, Graham Greene, Peter Dinklage, Kyle MacLachlan, Tim Blake Nelson & Keith David. Created By: Sterlin Harjo. On: FX & Disney +.

On the low, 'The Lowdown', on FX and Disney Plus, may just be one of the best shows of this...excuse me, last year. The American hit is now spanning the globe, after becoming available on streaming services in the UK last week. It's been back in Japan for a couple of months, too. But Stateside, it's already become one of the best of amazing actor Ethan Hawke's formidable filmography. All whilst his daughter, Maya, does a round Robin with the end of 'Stranger Things', this New Year's Day gone. Garnering award nominations for veteran legend Keith David (check his lovely family filmed reaction on social media), who still won't tell us what really happened at the end of 'The Thing'. This epic ensemble of all-stars, also features the legendary likes of Peter Dinklage (absolutely hilarious), Jeanne Tripplehorn and Kyle MachLachlan. Not to mention, one of the last roles of the late, great Graham Greene ('Dances With Wolves', 'The Green Mile', 'Wind River'). A wonderful actor, powerful and poignant in his final frames.

Striking gold for native's rights that matter, Sterlin Harjo's ('Reservation Dogs', 'Rez Ball') show starts with a man, the great 'Buster Scruggs' and Marvel megamind Tim Blake Nelson, with a bullet in his head, and more than four sheets to the winds with the prose in the books he leaves in his will. The brilliant Blake Nelson serves as a spectre of a narrator, but from then on out, it's up to Ethan Hawke to get his neo-noir investigation on in this neo-western set in Tulsa, Oklahoma and an America speaking very much to what is going on right now, in and out of office. 'Training Day'. The 'Before' trilogy. The 'Boyhood' experiment. Most recently, Paul Schrader's 'First Reformed', 'Blaze' and 'The Good Lord Bird', and Marvel's 'Moon Knight' as Oscar Isaac's foil. This Hawkeye has done it all over the generations. But this just may be his absolute year. This, a balding, platform heeling Best Actor favourite for 'Blue Moon', and a 'Black Phone 2' sequel thrown in for good measure, this Halloween. Watch Ethan's Ted Talk. You just might learn something. But all of this has nothing on his bruised and battered, self-dubbed "truthstorian", loosely based on historian Lee Roy Chapman for your nomination consideration, in a hat, vest and short-sleeved Wrangler to match.

Canadian Kaniehtiio Horn plays his ex-wife with a yearn to burn as one of the next best out there. Whilst Ethan's on-screen relationship with his daughter (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) will remind you of Brad Pitt's one in 'Moneyball'. Scott Shepherd has shades of another white-collar gun for hire we saw in Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another' with Leonardo DiCaprio. Vets like Tracy Letts show up, almost unrecognizable. And the cantankerous chemistry between Michael Hitchcock and Hawke is absolutely undeniable. Speaking of mikes, Killer Mike, himself (Michael Render), also runs some jewels. But it's Keith David who really shines and steals the show with his low growl of gravitas. One of the best voices in Hollywood (whether narrating Ken Burns 'Muhammed Ali' documentary, or starring as the villain in Disney's 'The Princess and the Frog'), has made quite the acting career ('They Live', 'Armageddon', 'Crash'), but it's lately where he's made his mark with Jordan Peele's 'Nope', 'American Fiction' and now, this. Claustrophobic trunk shots. One that will remind you of rednecks gone wild in 'True Detective' with Matthew McConaughey. Not to mention the novel nuanced, rich character development throughout. Razor sharp in the wit and wise flaws and soars. Get down to this. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'True Detective', 'Fargo', 'Twin Peaks'.

TV REVIEW: STRANGER THINGS 5

4/5

Inside Out

8 Episodes. Starring: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Noah Schnapp, Sadie Sink, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, Joe Keery, Maya Hawke, Brett Gelman, Priah Ferguson, Nell Fisher, Cara Buono, Linda Hamilton & Jamie Campbell Bower. Created By: The Duffer Brothers. On: Netflix. 

1.3.2.4.5. All things must pass, and after nine years, Netflix's most famous and successful show, 'Stranger Things', is all grown up with its fifth and final season coming to a close to conclude the calendar. One volume of these epic, eight wonder episodes came in the fall of November. Another unwrapped on Boxing Day after Christmas. And the final, mammoth, movie like, two-hour, last episode ever came with the countdown at 0.00 on New Year's Day. Way to bring in 2026 with a mic and ball drop. Your eyes will be streaming tears, like your nose, blood. 'Squid Game', 'Ozark', 'The Crown'. No Netflix original series has it quite like The Duffer Brothers (to the Russ Brothers what the Safdie's are to the Cohen's) coming of age series (assisted by 'Deadpool and Wolverine's' Shawn Levy), nuanced in 80s nostalgia. Not even 'Wednesday'. Dialled up to Eleven, even the 'never press skip intro' theme tune is the best in show, as the marvel of this book of closing credits will illustrate your inspiration for one last time. We hope these heroes have had the time of their lives. But it's never really over, now, is it? This year, the animated 'Stranger Things: Tales From '85' will do for the Upside Down what 'Squid Game US' will for the South Korean phenomenon. 

The Goonie gang is all here. All being pseudo parented by the legendary Winona Ryder, on fine form, and fan favourite David Harbour, licking his wounds after the Lily Allen album, but still drinking cop coffee out of a 'Father of the Year' mug. Stopping the hate, and turning into an X-Men like superhero in a jumpsuit, 'Enola Holmes' and the new member of the Bon Jovi family, Millie Bobby Brown is amazing as El, AKA, Eleven. Super powered and charged up for a formidable finale, as big and bloated as it is, bold and beautiful. All with the love of new 'Ghostbusters' and 'IT' franchise face Finn Wolfhard, taking charge, and telling us he's about to be welcomed back to Derry. The Dungeons and Dragons friends of Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin honouring Hellfire (EDDIE!) and their love's (sensational Sadie Sink about to show 'Spider-Man' a 'Brand New Day' and love?) love of Kate Bush respectively. Running up the hill and through Vecna's red room hellscape. Yet it's the sensitive, sweet soul of Noah Schnapp's wise Will that really finds himself, in more ways than one.

Triangles of love elsewhere keep this generational science fiction horror drama relating to the whole family...and all those they bring home. Natalia Dyer ('Velvet Buzzsaw') is still number one with an Emily Blunt in 'A Quiet Place' shotgun. In a house of wax with unsung hero Charlie Heaton, and still some sort of candle for Joe Keery (Steve "The Hair" Harrington being the new "Rachel"). Making music in his spare time, like Uma and Ethan's own Maya Hawke, all moxie, no nepo. You still suck if you think differently, baby! Yet it's the new kids on the block who are alright. Scene-stealer Priah Ferguson, really coming into her own. Or another little sister, Nell Fisher's Wheeler, makes her mark, with Red Riding Hood aesthetics, on this season, much more than most. And whilst we're here, let's give it up for the real 11 of 'Stranger Things', Cara Buono. Billy! We understand. 'Fleabag' favourite Brett Gelman is also on fire, snookums! And, the most famous new face, 'Terminator' icon Linda Hamilton, commands, albeit if a little underutilized. Even Prince's music keeps up with appearances for a show that sounds so good, even Frank Darabont came out of retirement.

Yet the cult favourite, and new Hollywood heartthrob, Jamie Campbell Bower is the one pinning up and possessing hearts. Albeit, not in his burnt spaghetti and worms form. I'm still of the ilk that thinks the Demogorgon, and those damn, dirty Demodogs, are iconic enough, even if they do look like, you know. Still, Vecna and that voice that have been haunting the penultimate, and this, the one last dance of 'Stranger Things 5', do make for something straight out of the John Carpenter like 1980s, like these chapter's type. Honestly, I can't stand that "noseless bastard", but isn't that makes for the perfect boo and hiss bad guy? Sure, there are other problems here. At times, this last season, finally showing signs of running out of steam, can be a slog. There's only so many times you can hear enhanced sound on literally everything. Opening a door. Putting something on the table. And what's with the murder of so many military men? Yet 'Stranger Things' is so iconic, the WSQK radio, and 'The Squak' (that you can actually listen to) is about to be, too, like those old vintage sweaters. And a massive, monumental monster end has even more legs in the meaning that follows. Still the best thing. Strange days forever. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Stranger Things: Tales From '85', 'Squid Game', 'IT: Welcome To Derry'.

STAND-UP REVIEW: RICKY GERVAIS - MORTALITY

3/5

Dead Funny 

59 Mins. Starring: Ricky Gervais. Director: John L Spencer. On: Netflix.

Morality may be missing in Ricky Gervais' new Netflix special, 'Mortality', but it's still a jolly good show. Even if we aren't always willing to be bloody good sports. Released after Christmas, just in time for the New Year, and in-between all those final 'Stranger Things' volumes, Ricky Gervais' 'Mortality' doesn't make any resolutions to tone down its darkest of dark humour and discriminatory subjects. Just like 'The Unstoppable...' surprise from fellow comedian of the type, Dave Chappelle, a week earlier and a few days before December 25th. As a matter of fact, Ricky resolves to go even harder against his harshest critics and communities he rubs up, on and off (ooo-err) the wrong way. Not to mention the comics who are calling him out.

Interchangeable with his 'Armageddon (2023)' and 'Supernature (2022)' specials before. Much like Ricky's cupboard of Primani, nondescript coffee shop worker, black t-shirts. The man, with dirty angel wings that Natalie Portman's 'Black Swan' would be proud of, is back to his old tricks. So much so, you could almost copy and paste a previous review, like you could use a promotional photograph from a past performance. But we're not saying that's a bad thing. If it ain't broke and all that. And this multimillionaire, like Chappelle, is far from that. This old dog knows new tricks, mind you. Especially as he discusses his own mortality, to hell with his place in the entertainment world. Similar to how Sebastian Maniscalo, who recently made the Netflix jump to Disney Plus, talks about walking past the mirror, past 50, in his new special. 'It Ain't Right'. And we all got it to come. But Gervais is staring into the abyss of what could be it. Life (he's not ready for the hereafter just yet, thank God) and legacy.

One that's being taken to task by cancel culture and all those offended. I mean, there are jokes about Anne Frank, Stephen Hawking and Jimmy Saville. The first two, are done in good jest, and not directly about them. The latter, can rot. The same can be said for his bit about Harold Shipman, which really reminds us of true evil and what a terrible place this world can be. A stand-up comedian just joking, one whose made sweet, sombre and soulful pieces of comedy art (like 'Afterlife'), truly pales in comparison to this devil red. Come for his response to all those comments (even if you might not like what he has to say). Stay for his behind the scenes look at the last, infamous Golden Globe's monologue that torched Hollywood. Not to mention anybody who ever took a trip to that infamous island. Face it, that James Cordon 'Cats' joke was absolutely hilarious, and Ricky will tell you how he got away with it here. No other mortal man could pull off quite a feat like this against 'I' dotting and 'T' crossing lawyers. No other, except this one. Call Gervais a disgrace if you must, but Ricky's reality check comedy is something we all need in a world gone mad. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: Dave Chappelle - 'The Unstoppable...', Ricky Gervais - 'Armageddon', Ricky Gervais - 'Supernature'.

TV REVIEW: STAR WARS - VISIONS (Season 3)

4/5

スター・ウォーズ.

9 Episodes. Starring: Masaki Terasoma, Daisuke Namikawa, Takako Honda, Manaka Iwami, Aki Toyosaki, Anna Sawai, Ronny Chieng, Karen Fukuhara, Freddie Highmore, George Takei, Harvey Guillén, Jodie Turner-Smith, Judith Light, Simu Liu, Stephanie Hsu & Steve Buscemi. Created By: Kanako Shirasaki. On: Disney +.

The anime anthology of Kanako Shirasaki's 'Star Wars-Visions' finds the high ground once again, in its third season, by returning to the format of being solely produced by Japanese anime studios. The second season was varied and fun, but this third time is the charm of taking us back to the outstanding origins. Culture and animation meet like two lightsabres striking each other, just like in the return of 'The Duel', in groundbreaking, grainy black and white, for some perfect 'Payback' you never saw coming. One that will add some more 'Star Wars' lore to these calligraphy like brushstrokes of our Ronin, a samurai without a master, but with a couple of Jedi in his corner. A new classic with a worthy sequel. Then, on 'The Song Of Four Wings', a princess, who could give Studio Ghibli's Laputa a run for her rebelliousness, takes you through a terrific, tundra trip, ripped with some video game soundtrack and some cute companions. Not to mention her own X-Wing jetpack and the best look at AT-ATs since they were lassoed up like Spider-Man. This is how anime can even take Star Wars to strange new worlds...wait, wrong franchise.

And if you thought she was heroic, and those androids, adorable, then just you wait for the force of 'The Ninth Jedi' to be with you, and its own saga beginning. All for more parts and spin-offs for this amazing anthology of separate storytelling with strands of plot longer than soba in this soup. To be continued with the next part's episode, but not before there's an even bigger bounty to have and be hunted in an epic episode voiced internationally by 'Shogun' star Anna Sawai and classic comedian Ronny Chieng. Making for a compelling pairing, we'd love to see in live action. Hey, Disney are doing it with everything and everyone else. 'Yuko's Treasure' is a real, fond find which shows you what it would be like if 'Star Wars' met 'Ghibli', like Grogu and those Dust Bunnies, and starred a 'SpyxFamily' like Anya. And we even have a neighbouring character, cuter than Totoro. This will really move you in the only hope of the end. Voiced by Masaki Terasoma, Daisuke Namikawa, Takako Honda, Manaka Iwami, Aki Toyosaki, and the likes of Freddie Highmore, George Takei, Harvey Guillén, Jodie Turner-Smith, Judith Light, Simu Liu, Stephanie Hsu and Steve Buscemi internationally, these Japanese roots reach to galaxies far, far away.

Now, if you're feeling like 'The Lost Ones', then the outstretched hand of a real hero will help you, in this atmospheric animation from Kinema Citrus Co. Especially when it peels back the layers to find the fruit of the past. As perfect as the poster, this episode between 'Revenge' and 'Hope', internationally stars Karen Fukuhara of 'The Boys' and 'Bullet Train' fame, and focuses on mentor and apprentice relationships that will cut you more times than Anakin. A worthy sequel in matrimony to 'The Village Bride'. Smuggling more on the seventh episode, like an awakening force, for the shortest part of the set, but one that could hold so much more in its series future. Produced by Studio Trigger and first announced during the Star Wars Celebration in Japan in April, this one rescuing a fugitive is a runaway hit. Fighting and taking flight through Star Wars history and its own visionary legacy. Then, the penultimate part, 'The Bird Of Paradise', shows you real sight through the third eye of a Jedi Padawan blinded in battle. These trails and parts will take you through yours, with proverb affirmation, as we head into the New Year of the Fire Horse. All before 'BLACK' fades to anything but. A psychedelic, fever dream devoid of dialogue, but one that speaks volumes as one of the most visionary yet. And now we have 'The Ninth Jedi' ('Star Wars Visions Presents') anime to look forward to. Sound and vision. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Star Wars: The Bad Batch', 'Love, Death + Robots', 'What If...?'.