REVIEW: BRUISED

 

3.5/5

Million Dollar Berry. 

138 Mins. Starring: Halle Berry, Danny Boyd Jr, Shamier Anderson, Adan Canto, Sheila Atim, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Adriane Lenox & Valentina Shevchenko. Director: Halle Berry. 

Scars and scabs. Black and blue. Bloodied and 'Bruised' like a raspberry, or a dent in the soup can life her ex-champ turned tune-up fighter has become a part of in this world of damaged goods. Halle Berry clambers INTO a UFC cage and into the directors chair for her behind the camera debut as the star of her own show. And it's as real and raw as it gets as the 'X-Men' legend and 'Monster's Ball' Academy Award winner gives us a storm of a brawl. Pulling no punches and looking like she's going for the belt of another Oscar. It was almost 20 years ago Berry had a 'Ball' and the gold. Now the 'John Wick: Chapter 3-Parabellum' sequel star shows she can kick ass again like Keanu, and defy age at 55 too, just like that vampire. So spry as she slides into the ring to box clever with actual Ultimate Fighting Champions. Like when Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton went bare toe-to-toe in 2011's best film 'Warrior', as this one tries to go seconds out with the greatest of the calendar schedule too. Halle has been Hollywood since those Eddie Murphy 'Boomerang' days came around. She's been a Bond girl ('Die Another Day') and been a part of the 'Kingsmen' (or should we say The Statesmen of 'The Golden Circle'...we still waiting on that spin-off). But lately (if you can call 2013 lately. It's really been that long) you need to pick up 'The Call' that changed Halle Betty's destiny. Think of that one as similar to the recent Jake Gyllenhaal Netflix 911 thriller and Danish remake 'The Guilty'. Just like this movie boxes in the same circles as Gyllenhaal's 'Southpaw'. Winners circle complete with its own hip H.E.R. and Cardi B. soundtrack. Berry is a legend like the one she's playing, but far from washed. An icon and Strong Black Lead that paved the way for so many. Seeing themselves as superheroes way before her comic-book love of the 'Black Panther', or Zoe Kravitz as Catwoman. No matter what you think of Halle's origin movie. Even rapper Saweetie had to bring the costume back for the coins. Never mind your intense stare down in cameo. IKDR. But what is going on here? It's been said that Berry wants to direct again and give justice for 'Catwoman' with one more reboot. I'd like to get my claws into that. Just like holding up the umbrellas for some more 'Days Of Future Past' once Doctor Strange opens up this 'Multiverse Of Madness' before Spider-Man "Scooby Doos this crap!" 

Blood, sweat and years of pain and tears. Capoeira skills honed from 'Catwoman'. Everything has its reason, no matter who hisses at it. Berry is going all out and in in the octagon as Jackie Justice (what a name). All for the most inspirational fictional sports story up the champion jumping steps since a certain Stallion told his Adrian he got one. Steeling herself for the prison of a combatants life inside the MMA ring. Wrestling with Springsteen Newark, New Jersey notions like Mickey Rourke. Far from the 'Warrior' dimming lights of Atlantic City acting like a lower rolling Vegas. Boxing. Wrestling. Kick-boxing. Jujitsu. Juggling family drama and a son left on her porch. Childhood trauma, adversity and being wrote off more times than King James, this Queen in Brady territory is looking for her title shot at her sports Superbowl. With more than one Lady Killer looking to take her down. It's all here for Jackie searching for justice on the ropes, with her back against the cage. This blood sport like Idris Elba looks like suicide, until you see Halle throw her first cross. The harder THEY fall! Spraying blood across the floor and alcohol into her mouth from a kitchen cleaner acting as a concealer. Berry can do the professional dramatics, nuanced acting, heavy lifting in her sleep. But pound for pugilist pound, it's the punishing reps she brings to her sporting stance and her actual real fighting that is the biggest dedication to a role, body and soul since Leonardo DiCaprio's vegetarian 'Revenant' ate raw bison. Put her next to 'Ali' GOAT Will Smith's 'King Richard' Williams tennis serve for the crowing trophy. Berry is at her very best. 

Hollywood heavyweights need plenty in their corner though and Halle has that. Forthcoming 'The Marvels' star and 'John Wick: Chapter 4' 'Tracker' who might be seeing Halle again soon, Shamier Anderson is as Immaculate as the name of the character he plays, even if the game of this MMA owner is far from. Whilst in another reunion the Sunspot of 'X-Men: Days Of Future Past' star Adan Canto is so burning and convincing in his cruel intentions you'll hate him for it in all his aggression and passive playing of it like it's all passion...it's not. It's toxic. Like the "look what you made me do" words of an abuser. Berry and Canto help bring these dark corners of domestic hell to the light of hopefully some heaven sent help in the real world. Still it's the classically trained Shakespeare Globe Theatre, 'The Lightning Child' and 'Ghost Town' actress Sheila Atim that really steals the stage in this big screen theatre. Making you wish they never cancelled the 'Game Of Thrones' spin-off series 'Bloodmoon' that she was cast in. Although she will soon ride in on the BBC's 'Pale Horse'. Elevating this in its weight catergory, Atim is the bruised soul of 'Bruised'. Add character actor veteran Stephen McKinley Henderson (you want him in your corner) finally getting his due after even eclipsing some of the sands of stars in this years smartest blockbuster 'Dune' and Tony award winner Adriane Lenox washing up as Justice's drug addicted and addled mother, still with a sober heart, and you really have something.  Even real MMA UFC fighter Valentina Shevchenko gets her acting licks in. But it's the kid Danny Boyd Jr, the essence of this battle that will move you without nary a word or smile. Fight night movies in the same club may be a sponge to a bucketful of clichés, but the 'Creed' of this one still wins the bout like Jordan in this last dance. Because Berry doesn't just have a team of trainers and fighting actors behind her, she also has herself with definitive deliverance in her direction like a lucky left. And this is more than beginners fortune, like her time on the canvas aswell as the cinematic one. This is hard-worked and honed to a punching perfection. She can direct. She can fight. Far from another act. 'Bruised' may not break the skin, but it still hits you hard enough to show up the next morning in reflection. Like spitting blood in the sink under the bathroom mirror. Now ain't that a kick in the head!? TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Million Dollar Baby', 'Warrior', 'Monster's Ball'. 

REVIEW: RESPECT

4/5

A.R.E.T.H.A.

145 Mins. Starring: Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans, Audra McDonald, Marc Maron, Tituss Burgess & Mary J. Blige. Director: Liesl Tommy. 

To be Franklin, check the credits in closing over a picture of Jesus behind this Queen. All as she sings 'Amazing Grace' from the church to save wretches like me in the pulpits. Everybody of the congregation in concert and the 1972 live album of the same name that became Ms. Franklin's bestselling. A "cherished entertainer" that sold out concerts well into her 70's and had Barack and Michelle Obama feeling the Holy Ghost and giving her standing ovations at the 'Tapestry' of a Carol King tribute, as the '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman' legend gave it up for another who was paying tribute to her on stage. Dropping her fur coat to the floor as the Queen of soul belted out all her natural power for King. An 18 time Grammy winner who became the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her story becoming HERstory. The youngest person to ever be chosen for the Kennedy Center Honors at 52. And of course in 2005 a recipient of America's highest civil award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Singing 'My Country, 'Tis Of Thee' at the 2008 inauguration of President Barack Obama. Calling it, "the promise of tomorrow now coming to pass". After her death she was posthumously honoured with a Pulitzer. The charitable activist and champion of social justice's lifetime achievements are so honor roll long they could have gone in a separate movie like the live version documentary of 'Amazing Grace' that was recently released as if from the heavens. In loving memory of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Louise Franklin. March 25, 1992-August 16, 2018.

IMAX eyes. The biggest voice deserves the biggest screen like a blockbuster. But this isn't a Marvel movie. It's a movie about a marvel. In all her majesty and magic. And this tick, tick...BOOM dynamite directorial debut from Broadway's Liesl Tommy with an eye for the biopic deserves the biggest cinematic presence. The 'Homecoming' of Beyoncé? Close, but how about instead the 'Dreamgirl' that stole the show and beat Bey to the Oscar? Miss Jennifer Hudson. 'The Color Purple' theatrical actress, moviestar and singer can expect another Academy Award to go next to her Grammy's and Golden Globe's. The power of her performance is phenomenal. She's not just playing Aretha, she is the Queen, no daydream. Thinking about her there 'Ain't No Way' like the way they use this song in Will Smith's 'Ali' anybody else could have played Miss Franklin. Give her the Best award like 'King Richard' for service. Hudson doesn't just do the numbers, powerful voice, for powerful voice. She also catches her tone and the timbre of her life and love. The high notes and the low points. The rich success after covering others for years. The iconic stance under the spotlight, her microphone a torch that led the way in the civil rights era like her good friend Martin. And the heartbreaking tribute, punctuated by pain she gave him in vocal eulogy after the King was taken from us in Memphis. The divorce, desperation and drink. Those three demon D's that Adele sang about last week when she turned '30' in. The only voice apart from Jennifer's these days that even comes close to Franklin. And we're talking about the kind of ballpark that needs a homer to even round it. Jennifer steps up to the plate and hits it all forever in the best biopic since Jamie in 'Ray' or everything and everyone the late, great '42' of 'Marshall' Chadwick Boseman played, getting up on some James Brown soul. Put this next to Renée Zellwegger's 'Judy' as worthy of the award and so much more in legacy honoring a legend. One moment in this film this burgeoning star is compared to Garland. Now everybody is giving her, her flowers. So it's high time to throw them towards Hudson's stage too as she opens another envelope like us this Christmas. 

With respect to the rest of this movies cast, they are more than just backing singers. Just like the title track of this movie is more than just an Otis Redding cover sitting on the dock of the bay as Aretha remade it as her own. What you want, baby she had it. More than just a little bit. And how about seeing how that cover was created? Re, re, re. And now in this 'Black Nativity' reunion with Forest Whitaker coming to the Far East of Japan this Christmas after its August United States rush, we can see just how much Forest has in his acting woods. One of the greatest black actors of not just his generation, but all time. More than his famous 'Empire' like J-Hud is too. This is the 'Ghost Dog' that showed us his way of the Samurai. The man that has played both 'Bird' and 'The Last King Of Scotland'. 'The Butler' who went all the way to Wakanda in 'Black Panther'. One of the most underrated legends of our time. But here he is undeniable. As Forest's father, a preacher with a daughter is all love, rough around the edges as he disciplines and controls with an iron fist, but is coming from a place of love. He just needs to really see his place and the own one his own can take by her self. On her perfected path. No matter how tough the street. Whitaker captures these character conflictions with conviction. All whilst trying to keep at bay the interests of the charming, but shady Marlon Wayans suitor. The comedy actor turning in the dramatic stakes like he did so well last year for Sofia Coppola's third times the charm Bill Murray reunion after (the reason I'm in Japan) 'Lost In Translation' and 'A Very Murray Christmas' (If say is it too early to watch this again, but August quickly became late November), 'On The Rocks'. One of last years hidden gems, going down smoothly in an all too rough year, we know about all too well. It's the 'Master Class' of 'Porgy and Bess' actress Audra McDonald that really has a presence throughout however, for some moving mothering with shades of 'Ray'. Whilst Marc Maron of the 'Joker' gets a few laughs in amongst the serious negotiations as the stand-up talent who makes music and podcasts increases his range, delivering these vocals to that studio sound. Even the star of 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt', the most hilarious detergent commercials and every other meme Tituss Burgess shows there is so much more to his soul than people using his reactions as their Internet one. Add the Queen of modern R&B and Netflix's 'Mudbound' and 'The Umbrella Academy' Mary J. Blige adding underused, but more unmistakable drama, flipping tables as the Queen Dinah Washington and 'This Bitter Earth' like haunting scores with Max Richter for the scales of Scorsese's 'Shutter Island' with DiCaprio will have some wise words. But it's time we all have 'Respect' and find out what this movie and its muse means to me. To every boy and girl around the world. Sock it to me. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Further Filming: 'Judy', 'Ray', 'Dreamgirls'. 

REVIEW: KING RICHARD

4/5

Richard The Serve. 

145 Mins. Starring: Will Smith, Aunjanue Ellis, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton, Mikayla LaShae Bartholomew, Tony Goldwyn & Jon Bernthal. Director: Reinaldo Marcus Green. 

'Will' may be writing the memoirs of quite a Hollywood career, from Bel-Air to defending earth from the worst scum of the universe. But right now as his autobiography flies off the bookshelves quicker than a "WHOO", Smith's telling another story. About to have the last "HA, HA" with envelopes from the Academy addressed to him. Will Smith is the former most marketable movie king of Labour Day weekend ('Independence Day,' 'Men In Black'), who has recently been toiling around Netflix movies ('Bright') and comic-book ones (he was M.I.A. from this years 'Suicide Squad'), all whilst becoming a YouTube sensation like all the fresh princes and princesses of a new way to make money like you think cryptocurrency is (it's not when the house always wins. Save your actual earnings. And Bumble dates who are tens to this weak four, stop asking me if I Bitcoin). But here holding court as a man who has his own 78 page book like a manifesto or 'Jerry Maguire' mission statement (it's not a memo), Will's way widens his stance to Oscar territory again. This is his best movie of those gold dreams since 'The Pursuit Of Happyness' and that speech by the chain-link fence before sleeping in a toilet with his son made us all cry. Smith is getting it...period. After being beaten by Denzel's 'Training Day' for his prolific pugilist portrayal as 'Ali'. Just an incredible transformation for the only man who could possibly go toe-to-toe and wit-for-with the greatest for Michael Mann's mesmerizing movie of history that was sadly sanitised more than our hands right now, despite a magnificent Mario Van Peebles as Malcolm X. This is Smith's signature with a 'King Richard' lisp about to take the throne and make the fall his new home like when he was 'Legend'. Like he still is. Even getting a shout out from his old ride or die DC firing squad thanks to Sylvester Stallone's King Shark poster homage. Will was robbed for 'Concussion', possibly the most important sports movie of all-time. But now with this serve he's about to ace all that. 

'Be Alive' with pride like the beyhive for B as Beyoncé's affirming anthem closes the credits with the history making, televised revolution clips this cinematic journey has taken us to in destination. "Can't wipe this black off if I tried", this icon sings as two more show us how far they've come in instant replay. Venus and Serena Williams. Two of the GOAT's of tennis. Like Graf, Seles, Sampras, Agassi, Federer, Nadal. Nah! OUT! No none else comes close to them. Venus as a girl, going for the gold of World Number One. Serena watching on the sidelines being told by her father Richard Williams that he kept her there for a reason. Because one day they're going to say she's the greatest to play this GAME. And he was right. And we did. And we do. He believed before even them. Even before they were born. Taking his kids from Compton to the courts of a billion dollar industry that has more positions on the grass and clay than chess has pieces for these queen's gambits. Richard reigns despite bing told he can't afford these dreams. Despite his 78 page book being coffee table tossed aside before we get past the preface. He's told it takes million just to get someone to hold a racquet right like a violin. His chances are comparable to having two Mozarts under one roof. He just farts in the face of all that elitist entitlement not so subtley disgusting racism for these girls that are about to change the game like Tiger Woods for their emancipation. Others tell him he's got the next Michael Jordan, to which he corrects them with two fingers. Now the mouth of LaVar Ball speaking truth to power doesn't seem so stupid does it? With Lonzo Ball shooting the lights out as a Chicago Bull and little brother LaMelo even better, no longer courtside coming off a Rookie of the Year season in the NBA. But let's wait before we make THAT biopic center court. 

Because let this service be what you dart your head from side-to-side for right now. This is the Williams moment. And Smith like Richard knows that despite his crowning achievement, it's all about the girls. Before they were child star famous, eliciting BTS like screams from the crowds forming a backcourt congregation. 'Fences' and 'American Horror Story' star Sanniya Sidney is just out of this world as Venus. Whilst newcomer Demi Singleton is about to make her own name on first terms like Serena. They bring a commitment to both their craft and joy to the youth of life that makes both as believable as all they achieved and their fathers dream. This film even brings out the promise and potential of the lost Williams sister Tunde Price, played perfectly by Mikayla LaShae Bartholomew. Price tragically list her life to gang violence. At the time Compton rapper The Game would honor her in the live version of his classic 'Documentary' cut 'Dreams'. A stark reminder of the bullets and bloodshed that surrounded the balls they served as they were just trying to hit straight for their dream. One scene that has Smith's Richard taking abuse from men threatening to "run a train" (I pray you have no idea what that means) on both daughters and standing up for them, not running away like his father did is sobering and heartbreaking in its solidarity and influence of inspiration in the midst of ignorance from all corners. We can't honor this brilliant biopic from 'Monster and Men' director Reinaldo Marcus Green that finds its ranking next to the court groundbreaking double of the recent 'Borg vs. McEnroe' or 'Battle Of The Sexes' that honoured another game changer in Billie Jean King without doing the same for 'Ray' and 'The Taking Of Pelham 1 2 3' star Aunjanue Ellis as Oracene 'Brandy' Price. She deserves her award like Smith like Brandy deserved her part to play in Venus and Serena's moment like Richard. Credit to the coaches too. Outfitted in sports sponsors and shorts that cut off the circulation so much like Richard you'll be asking for new balls please. Tony Goldwyn and that unmistakable voice from 'The Last Samurai' has some serious words of wisdom (and how about that McEnroe). Whilst the trademark energy of the real Jon Bernthal-no perfect 'Punisher'-steals the show with a 'stache like the man who improvised how to sell you that pen on 'The Wolf Of Wall Street'. Walking through his own party with DiCaprio like 'Catch Me If You Can' charisma and Kanye 'New Workout Plan' focus. But all in all, coming from California this is Smith's show and the sisters act. I find no fault with this smash. Like family, it's all love. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Battle Of The Sexes', 'Borg vs. McEnroe', 'The Pursuit Of Happyness'. 

REVIEW: tick, tick...BOOM!

4/5

30.

121 Mins. Starring: Andrew Garfield, Alexandra Shipp, Robin de Jesús, Joshua Henry, Judith Light, Bradley Whitford & Vanessa Hudgens. Director: Lin-Manuel Miranda. 

Tick...tick. Off or on Broadway, theatre is theatre and 'Hamilton' megastar legend Lin-Manuel Miranda in his feature film debut after putting his signature stage show on Disney + gives us a love Playbill to not only the spotlight a few blocks from Times Square, but the magic of New York, New York City itself. But this movie is more than the big city and the bright lights. It's a dedication to the late, great Jonathan Larson. The creator of the musical of this same movie name 'Tick, Tick...Boom' (stylised here as 'tick, tick...BOOM!'). And it's more than just a stage left passion project for those who know the biz. Larson may have been worthy of the Tony after making 'Rent' after years of barely making his own one for his apartment, but his story could stage an Academy of Oscars by the next ceremony. All whilst going tip-for-dancing-toe with the dedicated likes of 'Dear Evan Hansen' this fall before Spielberg's 'West Side Story'. Fun fact, the playwright of 'Evan Hansen' Steven Lenson pens this one too. Giving the notes to back this mesmerizing, magical musical from Miranda that is cinematography choreography of the biggest bravo. From the behind the piano storytelling of Larson's walking across the keys memoir, to the biggest musical numbers breaking into song from the streets of New York to the grandest stage. All to get right back to the diner that moonlights as the place to keep the spotlights on. Full house ordered up with a menu filled of Broadway cameos. You recognise those faces? Isn't that Lilith from 'Frasier'? The man that bungee jumped whilst proposing to Hilary on 'The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air' (and you know how that all worked out right?)? Well, you know they're much more than that. Check your Playbills. We're in an audience of legends as one that waited tables now holds the stage. Check please! Lin-Manuel may have changed the theatre game, but he knows how to read the dressing room of were he came from like lightbulbs surrounding the mirrors frame. 

Tick...tick. And now the portrait is on the big-screen. Or at least the Netflix one right now. Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot's 'Red Notice' may be doing the 'Squid Game' numbers. But forget the biggest opening day streams staying at home. This ones booming its way to the award season like Rebecca Hall's 'Passing' with Ruth Negga and Tessa Thompson. And it's just a few ticks away around the corner. Jonathan deserves this and Andrew Garfield gives him his just and his all to this role, body and soul. Sure we know what everyone is talking about this fall with the biggest Marvel movie the mainstream has ever seen in this age of 'Endgame', as it seems the 'Eternals' won't actually last that long. It's all they want for Christmas ordered off the web. But haters...or at least those not trying to spoil the surprise (we hope) will say its Photoshop. Anyway enough of that. We ourselves have gone on about it far too much to tempt fate. Sure we want him in the verse, but how about this chapter and verse? With curly hair Dylan would be proud of and artistry for pop culture that could even shade a Warhol, Garfield's Larson is his muses passion personified. Punctuating the notes of his life script. And how about that hilarious and telling grammar moment that comes correct to a writers life like "you'rs truly" (I know. We've been here before)? An American legend working on that dream like Springsteen. All before he hits 30 like Adele this weekend. Seeing his potential as a ticking time bomb in a world that sees a 'Mission: Impossible' fuse before they self destruct. All as Larson and everyone else around him (even those who have been cruelly told about life's fickle impermanence, being diagnosed with HIV) have not even the faintest idea that the ticking is actually leading to a tragic, fatal collapse for a man who literally gave his all to his art. Andrew captures this grace and the man's soul with the upmost respect. Especially in the rain of a pivotal piano moment in the middle of a solidarity Central Park stage at night. Now the amazing American-British actor who first got our Academy attention saving everyone at 'Hacksaw Ridge' and our theatrical one for those 'Angels In America's' only Oscar competition looks like himself in 'The Eyes Of Tammy Faye' with Jessica Chastain, whose own one looks to trophy cabinet go alongside a possible Emmy for her 'Most Violent' reunion with another Oscar. 

More than a storm in this New York cup of coffee, Alexandra Shipp holds her stage as the heart of this movie. In her Lifetime the 'Straight Outta Compton' star Shipp has played the 'Princess Of R&B' Aaliyah on a TV movie and a game changing X-Men in Storm. But here just like in 'Love Simon' the actress shows she is even better at telling personal stories beyond the big budget blockbusters and names everyone knows. And again to those unfamiliar with Larson, you're about to learn about one of the best, more than behind the scenes. Offered up by a name eveyone knows on Broadway bright lights now, backed up by producers Brian Grazer and the 'Happy Days' of Ron Howard hitting the jukebox like aaayyyy. And besides not many knew the real deal P. T. Barnum of 'The Greatest Showman' until Hugh Jackman's charisma sold him. And as it turns out Barnum was more than a bit of a prick. Add the high notes and big song of Joshua Henry and fellow Broadway icon Judith Light's amazing, chain-smoking agent that could give Joey's 'Friends' like Estelle a run for her ashtray and this cast is class all the way down to the legend Bradley Whitford of 'The West Wing' and 'Studio 60 On The Sunset Strip' playing another one. All the way to the tone of a vocal cameo leaving a message. 'High School Musical' star Vanessa Hudgens is also on the stellar second-act of her career with the likes of this, 'Bad Boys For Life' with 'King Richard' about to take his Oscar throne, Will Smith and 'Rent: Live'. But for all this it's the absolutely incredible Robin de Jesús who steals this show. The star of Lin-Manuel Miranda's 'In The Heights' (the stage version) is just everything here. Beautifully heartbreaking and immovably inspiring. He's the soul of this story. And his friendship with Garfield's Larson the beating heart that moves to the rhythm like a metronome. And whilst we're here how about Garfield being king of the emotional man-hugs? Just check his one with Dane DeHaan's Harry Osborne and their own bromance in 'TASM2' and by the way, was that (we hope) Dane in th...but, we digress. We promised we would. But back to it, head on the door or Manhattan moving his way through a passionate conversation powering the booms of these ticks, Jesús is heaven sent as he turns taking the trash out in the cold to one of the hottest numbers circling the fire escape stairs of these high-rise songs that ring the alarm. Singing the praises of all the big names making their stage here, it's all for one though as the flowers hit the floor. The late, great Jonathan Larson who took his life and his dream and made it one and the same. Singing from his own song sheet. And that's a notion ticking over that will live rent free in our heads for as long as the inspiration lasts. Why take to the stage when you are the stage in this world of players. This ain't merely Shakespeare. It's New York theatre folklore. BOOM! TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Hamilton', 'Dear Evan Hansen', 'The Eyes Of Tammy Faye'. 

BOOK REVIEW: JAMIE FOXX - ACT LIKE YOU'VE GOT SOME SENSE (AND OTHER THINGS MY DAUGHTERS TAUGHT ME)

 

4/5

Dad Keeps Embarrassing Me.

When 'Will' came out this month, movie megastar, the original Agent Smith who is even big enough to pass on 'The Matrix', showed us the way yet again. Just watch that Tik Tok that's gone about as viral as Smith's sensational second career as a YouTuber before he serves for the Oscar throne as 'King Richard' with the Williams sisters. The way that took the West Philadelphia born and raised (where's did he spend most of his days? Do you even have to ask) Fresh Prince who moved in with his Uncle and Auntie in Bel-Air to Hollywood and beyond infinity as his buzz welcomed aliens to earth. But during the age of 'Big Willie Style' and that very album for the new man in black, one of Will Smith's good friends was waiting in the wings. Or the interludes. The hilarious Keith B. Real. Do you remember? Don't act like that, you know you got it! That album sold more than Taylor Swift...or maybe even 'Independence Day' for the King of the fourth of July movie-going weekend. Still, not with me? OK. You've got Spotify. I'll wait like Will with those two guns (word to Mark Wahlberg and Denzel Washington) in 'Bad Boys II' when another classic Def Comedy Jam stand-up talent was trying to tell people that were shooting at them that they weren't immigration. Hilarious right!? But does that voice that's constantly getting thrown out by Smith's legendary bouncer Charlie Mack (first out the limo) and slapped by Jada sound familiar. Yep, that's right! Beat Shazam. That's Jamie Foxx. Before the Oscar for 'Ray'. 'Any Given Sunday'. Even 'Ali' with Smith, when Foxx was in Will's corner again for his 'Collateral' and 'Miami Vice' director Michael Man's boxing biopic as Bundini Brown. This compared to Smith's star stratosphere was almost a before they were famous moment, even though Jamie had his own show named after him like 'Martin'. Now as 'Will' lines everyone's bookstores and shelves Jamie has his own good book to go next to the Hollywood God. 'Act Like You've Got Some Sense' and read it too. 

Spidey senses right now are tingling at a buzz which is scrolling and sawing through the timelines and fan theories as the second trailer for this Christmases 'Spider-Man' trilogy conclusion 'No Way Home' dropped this week like bird s### made of cement. Whilst the big question and mocked up leaked photos is on whether Jamie Foxx's 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2' co-star Andrew Garfield and the original Tobey Maguire will suit-up as Peter Parker alongside Tom Holland. The latters post credits cameo in Tom Hardy's connected 'Venom' movie and all those universe web weaving Easter Eggs in Jared Leto's 'Morbius' trailer has us hoping they'll go into the spider-verse like the classic animation. Besides all the villains are there like the return of Foxx's electric Electo character that gave us the most epic showdown amongst the bright lights of Times Square in 'TASM2'. Putting the big city of New York in another blackout. And you have to love the new duds and the classic comic crown call-back for Foxx. Even if we did like the Blue Man Group look in Manhattan. Let's just hope Jamie keeps the electricity in his voice. Speaking as such as he talks about the pleasure of "getting to kick Spider-Man's ass" here you have to get the audiobook version of this autobiography that will join you in company when you get ready for work in the morning and take the train home. Not only is it easier on the hands, you lazy readers that love to just scroll through stuff, it's chocked full of Foxx's sly, charismatic charm and the art form of his impressions. Everyone gets it. Sidney Poitier in regal introduction (that's Mr. Poitier to you...and me). Snoop Dogg in a meet the family moment similar to welcoming your daughters first date round in again, hilarious 'Bad Boys II' fashion (you've all done it, just not with The Doggfather). And the best and funniest impression you'll ever hear of Jay-Z. It's crazy! It sounds so much like your boy. 

Names are dropped, sure. This is Hollywood and the man who also moves in music circles and comedy circuits. This is the man that played Ray Charles and in the same year provided that voice for Kanye West's 'Gold Digger'. He took your mooooney. He hosted better parties than Diddy. Introduced Ed Sheeran to the industry. You only have to watch many a Late Night with Jimmy Fallon to see he is a master of storytelling like he is of ceremonies. Just check the one about Bobby and Whitney and whilst we're here that Denzel impersonation too that he even impressed on Washington himself. OK, alright! 'Django' has had out attention since his Mr. Cab Driver sold us and Jada Pinkett in Real reunion on his "cool groove experience" Island Limo's idea before all the 'Collateral' damage happened with Tom Cruise. But the most important name is Foxx...and not his. His daughters. Corinne and Annalise Bishop. Corinne who provides the foreword even narrates the chapter names...which are as creative as the careers of these Foxx's themselves. Earlier this year Corrine Foxx even produced her father in his return to the small-screen sitcom world for the family comedy 'Dad Stop Embarrassing Me' based on their lives. Sure, the show tanked like Jamie and our R&B friend (what's up Babbs?), and Netflix have couched and cancelled 'Dad Stop' after it barely got out the gates. But that's Netflix for you and they still have 'Project Power' with Foxx. But there was nothing embarrassing about that delightful, charming, inoffensive show that took us back to both the golden, good old days of television sitcoms before streamers and Foxx's salad days of having an Eddie Murphy family of his raw characters he created and played himself to delirious effects. It was just in and the wrong time. But how about this book? It serves as more than a sequel or a companion to the show. Instead more like a behind the scenes documentary to the family and home life of a Hollywood legend and his real, lasting legacy. Besides for all the inspired impressions and charming character, what's better than the real thing? 'Act Like You Got Some Sense', Eric Bishop's grandmother Esther Marie Talley, the woman who raised him and the tribute subject of his beautiful piano, 'Unpredictable' song 'Heaven' told him, to which he named his book. And check the dust jacket of Jamie Foxx's memoir like running a cloth over it and straight out the foxxhole you can see the words 'I Taught My Daughters' crossed out for the common sense of this books sub-heading, "And Other Things My Daughters Taught Me". Sure this book my be a parenting guide, but it's no Dad of the year hubris pitch. Even though this man is that type of father like Vader is Luke's. Instead this awesome autobiography were Dad doesn't embarrass is a celebration of love and life. The man may not be married and that's his choice and his right like it is everyone and anyone's to do what they wish with their heart, so long as it doesn't hurt another. But it's clear all he's learnt in this life and everything he continues to be educated on comes from the work and worth of the women in his life. Act like you've got some sense and listen to those teachings too. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

TV REVIEW: SCENES FROM A MARRIAGE - Season 1

4/5

Love and Marriage. 

5 Episodes. Starring: Jessica Chastain & Oscar Isaac. Director: Hagai Levi. 

A most violent marriage this is not. But emotionally? More than maybe. Absolute scenes. What more could you expect from in my mind the best actor and actress of our generation working today? Fellow Julliard grads and close friends Jessica Chastain and Oscar Isaac. Reuniting after 2015's 'A Most Violent Year' cinematically convinced us that Chastain along with the likes of Cate Blanchett really was going for Meryl Streep's throne, along with an inspired Isaac showing us he was the closest thing to a De Niro and Pacino godson these days. All whilst both showing us who they really were in their own individual A-list acting talent rights and stakes in a 'Violent' movie about the mob putting the squeeze on an oil tycoon who wanted to keep his taps tight and his family life even firmer. One that barely even had to pull a trigger or nary throw a fist to show us that it was a complete classic. As convincing and compelling as their reunion in this new compulsive HBO drama from 'The Affair' and 'In Treatment' producer and director Hagai Levi. Reimagining the influential Ingmar Bergman's brilliant Swedish miniseries 'Scenes From A Marriage'. How about that greyscale tribute in bed that the furnitute fittings of IKEA would be proud of? Sure Hollywood remaking another Euro gem from the cold and cinematography calculating regions of this wonderful world and its powerful and prolific programming is like the pitch of making Leonardo DiCaprio 'Druk' like Mads Mikkelsen. Sometimes we just don't need it. With that being said though, these original scenes came out in the seventies so it's high-time for a tribute. Even if this review is later than the bad spouse that said they will be home in ten minutes...they're in the car. Let's just blame how busy life has been recently. And if you think this recap has arrived to the party after time, just wait until we get out tentacles into Netflix's South Korean smash 'Squid Game'. 

Static on your sets comes into play like an in awe "ahhh" from the Gods of television as the HBO logo fades in and establishes itself like this was 'The Wire' or 'Game Of Thrones' for your epic, more than regular scheduled programming serieses. Although this writer always associates it with the 'Frolic' of Luciano Michelini's classic opening to Larry David's better than 'Seinfeld' (yeah I said it. I love where it all started, but you try watching an episode to start the day and having nightmares of a screaming Seinfeld killing you with that bloody bass guitar) 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' (now here's a new series this fall that has still got it and has you like walking into a glass door. Oh, and whilst we're here, for the record, SHE PLONKED). And there are plenty of definitive dramatic moments you cold ruin with that trumpet reprise to close the show like whoever hilariously did that to the "what's in the box" end of Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman's 'Se7en'. Still, each episode of these 'Scenes' is in matrimony with something much more creative and crafty to set us off. Starting each 'Marriage' with a behind the scenes look of this set, as forget breaking the fourth wall, there literally isn't one in this open house. There's Jessica Chastain goin over lines in the bathroom. Is this part of the show? Oh wait, someone's applying her make-up. I know we all have close friends, but this is a bathroom. The most private of places. Even in our own homes. Oh and yep, there it is. The boom mic. This isn't technically part of the show. Like Oscar Isaac walking around stage hands all around his living room. Wearing a plastic face-shield and keeping everyone safe like staying at home these days. 

Beginning with this beautiful behind the scenes look this show is as real as it gets. Truth for truth. Even if the opening scene of an interview for a look into marriage disguised as couples therapy (or is it the other way round on the couch?) will still have you convinced you're not yet watching the show but a featurette documentary about it. But when you finally realise you are on the settee set into this deep delve into a marriage that looks like it's more in matrimony with divorce, boy are you in it. From the guess whose coming to dinner (Corey Stoll at his "is this guy really a prick in real life" (I'm sure he's not, he's just a great actor) best). To curveballs that will cliffhanger blindside you after only a few episodes. I mean, what do you expect? This is a miniseries. We can't say anymore or we will spoil everything like coming home late for dinner. Suitcase in crumpled salary suited hand. All we can is this is 'A Most' brilliant reunion between Oscar and Jessica handled brutally and beautifully by Levi. About to set the net on fire like breaking it with that red carpet look of the man who voiced Gomez (someone get us a live-action look) in 'The Addams Family' animation treating Chastain's arm like Morticia that would have started many 'A Star Is Born' rumour as there were "find somebody who looks at you like" captions if it wasn't for both being happily married. In this television 'Marriage' however, we conveniently have the on-screen reunion we have been waiting for in all its ultimate professional chemistry and charming courtesy. Especially with the respect that comes when these performers can take it to the raw emotions that come with rings that circle around "for better or worse." Hiding behind the fences of white picket, picture perfect paradise. Albeit in a crooked frame. Taking it to the same kitchen floor that left Amy Winehouse in tears. 'Ex Machina' and 'Star Wars' star Isaac may have the mega blockbuster 'Dune' right now and Marvel's forthcoming 'Moon Knight' with Ethan Hawke foreboding to redeem his 'Apocalypse' with the X-Men (kudos to Chastain in 'Dark Phoenix'). Not to mention the ace in the hole of Paul Schrader's 'The Card Counter' if you want to talk about Hawke for your 'First Reformed' hand. But the man who deserves his first-name may just get the Emmy for what looks like his 'Llewyn Davis' finally settled down inside as the salt and pepper did in his beard. Meanwhile 'Zero Dark Thirty' and 'The Tree Of Life' star Chastain may be on another year of her life with 'The Eyes Of Tammy Faye' with Andrew Garfield WHO IS NOT IN THE NEW SPIDER-MAN MOVIE (we're going to keep jinxing it, until it's true) looking for the Oscar after her amazing year of 2017 ('The Zookeepers Wife', 'Miss Sloane' and 'Molly's Game') crazily didn't even get a nomination look in. Not to mention really 'Ava' starting something with her super spy epic ensemble of 'The 355', but this is truly her moment that doesn't even need the biggest screen to shine. Still, it's what the two 'Violent' stars achieve together in this 'Marriage' that will have you and hold you. You just can't take your eyes off them. Now how about third time being the charm for a Springsteen and Patti Scialfa biopic off E Street? In sickness and health they are two perfect performers in partnership giving their every vow to the craft. And what we can take from this to our home lives, either engaged in loneliness or working on a commitment is something that even in our worse times can make us all the better. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'A Most Violent Year', 'Show Me A Hero', 'The Tree Of Life'. 

REVIEW: PASSING

4/5

The Skin I Live In.

99 Mins. Starring: Tessa Thompson & Ruth Negga, André Holland, Bill Camp, Gbenga Akinnagbe , Antoinette Crowe-Legacy & Alexander Skarsgård. Director: Rebecca Hall. 

Under the skin, this movie is 'Passing' as more than just a mesmerizing masterpiece from first-time and already now confirmed behind the camera, definitive director Rebecca Hall (the actor of 'The Town', 'The Prestige' and the haunting report of 'Christine'). One that shot as such, looks the jazz-age part of a 1920's New York in this subtle, cinematic roar that like the artist takes us back, Jack Gatsby. It's also hiding much deeper messages than the one that stares right down at us through the barrel of the lens, boring holes. Just like the straight to screen break of one of our two leads who taking in more than the other, looks right at us. Saying so much more behind the gaze. Making us sit up and take notice of ourselves, our history. Who the lines disregarded. A hidden love like Cate Blanchett's 'Carol' for Rooney Mara, or the 'Disobedience' of Rachel Weisz and McAdams. Like hands held together under the table, but apart. But let's get right back to what we can see. Dreadful. Disgusting. Despicable. Two decades and no change later the great Nat King Cole was made to bleach his skin when performing his movie hit 'Nature Boy' on live TV. All whilst crosses were burning on the front lawn of his new home in an all white neighbourhood. You should hear Stevie Wonder talk about it on a Cole documentary. His words do enough, but you can see in his face how heartbroken he still is by these type of ignorant injustices and intolerable cruelties. And this is a man blind from birth. We aren't even trying to be anything but truthful when we can assure you this was the one and only time he was relieved he couldn't see something. Something so horrible. But oh, how he could feel it. Like everyone with a heart or conscience could. It's too much to see. Even more of a burden to bear in enduring its pain. Why beautiful black skin was made to be ashamed of itself and hide in plain sight from mad men was the biggest crime against humanity. All whilst callous cowards that these days won't even wear a mask to help their fellow man, hid their face under a white hood. Revealing more within what they pass as, this moving and compelling film stirs the souls of those whose open hearts reveal more than what they wear on their sleeves. As this off the cuff, unconventional throwback of a movie shows us just how much hasn't changed in modern times. 

Hidden figures right in front of us, people of color had to do this as a made-up shield in order to avoid persecution and even far, far worse. This is why they had to pass as something else, even though they were still proud of who they were. Who they are. It's just an ignorant and hateful society in an American and world wide reaching world wasn't. It's like what 'Selma', 'If Beale Street Could Talk' and 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom' star Colman Domingo said only as recently as this Halloween in the 'Candyman' remake, "they love what we make, but they don't love us." It stunned me only this weekend living in Japan and talking to a close friend in Tokyo. Addressing the problem of racism seen here that sees even a basketball superstar like Rui Hachimura putting the sport on the map for this country and vice versa receiving abuse from some people, even in this time of social justice movements like Black Lives Matter and Stop Asian Hate. My friend is no racist and does not subscribe to these ignorant ideals but believes it belongs to the bizarre following of the old American way that this land decides to do, despite all the States of the past put them through. Of course the beautiful country from Japan welcoming peace and compassion is far from a racist nation, but there is a hidden problem. Racism isn't born, its taught. But it's done so with such a clenched iron fist that refuses to give a hand or the turn the academic book page to real, revolutionary black history. Like the fact that you had to see a Hollywood movie featuring Kevin Costner to even realize black women did more than the math that got whitey on the moon. But let's hear it Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monaé and the real 'Hidden Figures' they portrayed. Going through her family tree, 'Godzilla vs Kong' and 'Iron Man 3' actress Rebecca Hall realized that her maternal grandmother passed as white and now the daughter of opera singer Maria Ewing is using that blockbuster push to forge ahead with passion projects like this that mean so much more than popcorn, or the industry idea of 'two for you, one for me'. The big-three Hollywood megastars of Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot may have made Rawson Marshall Thurber's 'Red Notice' doing 'Squid Game' numbers the most successful opening day Netflix movie release. But this portrait in personal 'Roma' black and white heading for the gold of the Academy like 'The Irishman', 'Marriage Story', or 'The Two Popes' is putting everyone on notice. 

Sweltering in the sun that's having everyone fainting in the Manhattan streets, this reveal is bound to leave everyone in shock and awe as the true side to the story back then would make everyone collapse. Adapted from Nella Larson's groundbreaking 1929 novel of the same name and racial, gender and class divides in the big city of dreams and broken promises the thought of a perfect life made to us. And the partnering headline stars of 'Creed's' Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga of her Oscar nominated performance (expect another) in 'Loving' (regarding the white man and black woman whose love changed the laws between interracial marriage. And how beautifully poignant that their surname in matrimony was actually, Loving) bring the pain and power of these pages to their stages on screen. Familiar with that Marvel money, Thompson is the Avenger and Thor world Valkyrie, who became the first bisexual hero in the MCU, thanks to her and Taika. Whilst Negga was an 'Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D.' scene stealing regular who made her name as the powerful and complex Raina character. Those eyes that communicate so much stayed with you as they pierce points here. Both actresses of course are more than the mainstream. See Tessa in the right before it's time 'Sorry To Bother You' and Ruth in the cerebral Brad Pitt space drama 'Ad Astra' for even more atmosphere. But it's here were they both give us their best. From Tessa Thompson's character in this fight with all her broken and bruised resolve and the delicately heartbreaking Ruth Negga portrayal that can move you and shock you to your core with just one gesture or look away in shielded tears, trying to pass off like everything is alright. But it's not. And this film gets exactly to the heart of that. And why, and how. Thanks to some stellar support from 'Moonlight's' mesmerizing André Holland, who can front a Netflix movie all on his own (see basketball's 'High Flying Bird' above the rim), A-list character actor Bill Camp (see 'Wildlife', 'Molly's Game' and of course Netflix's 'The Queens Gambit' for even more moves) and Hall's kaiju fighting with an ape co-star Alexander Skarsgård, scarring the screen with his characters cruel racism and bitter indignant, ignorance. With that being said, what an actor and performance. But it's star of HBO's 'The Wire' and 'The Deuce' Gbenga Akinnagbe and Antoinette Crowe-Legacy making her own one that really leave their mark. Passing through themselves, but not hidden in the margins of this story, or "the blank white spaces at the edges of print" Margaret Atwood's 'Handmaid's Tale' taught us about. There is no gaps in this story. So don't make it a passing fancy. Standing out and staying with you, nothing can disguise the calm power of this movie that comes into this fall season like a quiet storm. Burning over the snow below like an atmospheric cigarette over some flapping French windows in the wind that does more than let this cold world in. Don't pass up on a chance to see and learn from how things really were and sadly still are before we change. If you don't, life and its lessons will merely pass you on by. TIM DAVID HARVEY. 

Further Filming: 'Carol', 'Disobedience', 'The Last Black Man In San Francisco'.