Though my moviegoing days are now fewer and farther between, I took one look at the trailer for Saltburn and messaged a friend that we should go. Neither of us really knew much about the plot, but that simply added to the intrigue.
Saltburn might be one of the most visually stunning movies I’ve seen in a while — and possibly ever. Much of that is thanks to director Emerald Fennell’s brilliant use of light and shadow, creating a trance-like vibe that looks altogether romantic while sprinkling in an aura of mystery, secrecy, and… trepidation.
Interestingly, Fennell uses a tight aspect ratio, which initially seemed like it might be a distraction or feel unsettling. But instead, it creates an intimacy between these characters and a visceral audience connection to them. This cramped, compact format draws us in and more closely directs our attention to Oliver (Barry Keoghan) and Felix (Jacob Elordi) and their wild, wicked world.
Those extreme closeups — extreme closeups — serve to highlight not just the physical beauty of the actors but also an almost seductive nature between their characters as well as the fascinating and alluring lifestyle that is Saltburn.
And let’s not forget about those stylized point-of-view shots, allowing insight through Oliver’s eyes as we experience and begin to understand his mindset, actions, and distractions.
Keoghan and Elordi are so good, so graceful, and so captivating. If their performances don’t completely hypnotize you, Fennell’s composition and shot selection certainly will. Don’t be surprised if Saltburn racks up a handful of Oscar nominations, especially for acting, directing, and cinematography.
Sure, the narrative is insanely twisted. But this dark, magnetic, disturbing — at times even disgusting — and exciting thrill ride is worth every minute.
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow and “like” her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
In Brad Zellar’s “Till the Wheels Fall Off,” main character Matthew Carnap returns to his sleepy (heh) hometown in search of… himself. And through Zellar’s mix of honest and rigid and amiable and heartbreaking descriptions and dialogue that teeter back and forth between then and “now,” we get to piece together this character through his own retrospective dissection.
The narrative is delivered in a way that’s effortless and conversational. And straight-up genuine. While the idea of jumping from one thought to the next with no real systematic outline might, in theory, seem calamitous, the flow of events instead feels distinct and transparent. There’s a very personal element that helps readers both form a deeper connection with and better define Matthew — at the same time he’s figuring things out himself.
This is easily the best thing I’ve read all year. And for that matter, in a long time.
Zellar’s prose is simple yet engaging. His conversational tone gives this story and this character a natural flow and straightforward essence through which I was quickly and immediately immersed. And that his novel is set (mostly) in a roller rink to a soundtrack of impressive and impressionable music taps into nostalgia like a drug — and we’re all a bunch of junkies looking for more.
In fact, I was so engaged that, with about 30 pages left, I almost stopped reading because I didn’t want the adventure to be over. Yes, it’s really that good.
Everyone has an origin story, a defining history through which we’ve traveled from there to here. Whether or not it’s compelling is another matter, dependent on memories and observations and seemingly insignificant moments that instead hold a great deal of meaning to help shape who we become. Composing all of that in a way that resonates with anyone hearing or reading it is what creates the draw. And that’s the trick.
To move people with words is a bona fide gift. And Zellar has it. How do I know? Simple: I read his book. Give “Till the Wheels Fall Off” a spin and you’ll know exactly what I mean.
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow her on Facebook and “like” her page at www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
Welp, the summer movie season has officially taken flight (wink).
The day after I saw “Top Gun: Maverick,” a friend sent a text asking for my review. Thoughts were still swirling in my brain, and I hadn’t yet written down (or typed up) anything. So, I simply replied, “In three words or less: Totally worth seeing.”
And that seems to be the consensus among those who’ve already bought a ticket for this follow-up to the high-flying 1986 flick, with its macho bad-assery, extreme cheese factor, and scenes so steamy that every character was literally drenched in sweat. All. The. Time.
Good to see they got the A/C working for the new installment, which was postponed and delayed and held up again – for more than two years – before finally hitting theaters this past Memorial Day weekend.
But that wait? Worth every minute.
Tom Cruise is back, more than three decades after he bolted across the sky and into everyone’s heart as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, the Navy aviator with little regard for caution – or authority. He still looks the same, though slightly less boyish and cocky. But only slightly.
And as this “Top Gun” sequel kicks off – in almost identical fashion as its forerunner, with jets taking off from an at-sea airbase, with thumbs up signals flashing across the flight deck and Kenny Loggins crooning about that familiar “Danger Zone” in the background – Maverick is once again pushing buttons. And his limits.
Surprised? Me either.
After stern looks and tongue lashings from his higher ups, Maverick gets word from Admiral Beau “Cyclone” Simpson (Jon Hamm, meow): “You’ve been called back to Top Gun.”
But they don’t want him to fly. Oh, no.
“Everyone here is the best there is,” Lt. Trace/“Phoenix” (Monica Barbaro) states, matter-of-factly. “Who the hell are they gonna get to teach us?”
One guess.
In this high-stakes mission with its narrow training timeline and a success rate that requires “two miracles,” who else can teach this crew?
How about the guy who “can’t get a promotion, won’t retire, and despite his best efforts, refuses to die.”
For anyone who hasn’t seen the original (which may have only been me, until a year ago. I KNOW!), it’s not entirely necessary to see “Top Gun” to follow the action and story here. Through quick explainers and wistful flashbacks, “Maverick” fills in the blanks where necessary.
But, having seen the first flick will give a better understanding of the motivation, the journey, and the legacy of some of these characters. And those quiet moments of tight close-ups and determined stares? They’ll ooze the sentimentality needed to carry the weight of their significance.
“Maverick” dazzles while taking its audience inside the cockpit for every ride, with shaky camera effects – for real G-force effect; high-speed twists, turns, and spins that put us right behind the yoke; and those intense quick cuts, warning signals, and flashing instrument panels that’ll send your anxiety through the canopy.
This is a fun flick, plain and simple. Packed with action and nostalgia, “Maverick” hits every mark without wasting a moment or a look – or our time. The sarcasm and humor sprinkled throughout keeps the mood playful while being restrained enough for the audience to take the movie seriously.
The connection to the first film remains solid and profound, even 30-plus years later.
When the essence of something so beloved is nurtured and developed and held to an even higher standard than its predecessor, the audience wins. Based on the blatant corniness of some of the scenes and lines in “Top Gun,” this sequel really has no business being good.
But it’s not. “Top Gun: Maverick” is an exceptional, real-deal summer blockbuster.
And it’s, in three words or less, totally worth seeing.
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow her on Twitter @movieaddictmel, and “like” her Facebook page www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
“Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a little while.” – Elton John
Truly.
This year, like the past several, was supposed to be filled with an abundance of live music. My concert calendar was already starting to fill up as 2020 got underway.
A friend and I had tickets to see Martin Zellar’s NEIL! Tribute on Valentine’s Day and were all set to rock out to Hall & Oates from the nosebleed section at Xcel Energy Center in July. I bought A TICKET – singular – to go solo to another Zellar show in March. My (now ex-) husband and I had seats for Barenaked Ladies, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and Gin Blossoms in June. I was looking forward to another Gear Daddies show at First Avenue in early May… .
But at that February 14 show at the Parkway Theater, I remember hearing people starting to talk about a virus that was wreaking havoc halfway around the globe.
And then the entire world turned on its head.
In the blink of an eye, everything changed. Those concert plans were gone, taking with them all hope for any musical enjoyment this year.
But by far the biggest and most significant question mark on my live music schedule was the Martin Zellar house concert we had booked earlier in the year. The date was three days after the now-canceled Hall & Oates show, and I was absolutely crushed by the thought that this event, too, would suffer the same fate.
A BIG DAMN DEAL
Why was this house concert such a big deal? If you know me, you already know.
I’ve been a fan since college and have made a habit of catching at least half a dozen Zellar and Gear Daddies shows every year.
Excessive? No way. Necessary?
Totally.
As a songwriter, Zellar is altogether honest. And purposeful. And brilliant. His expressive lyrics craft each tune into its own melodic powerhouse that can bring out a smile or deliver the most intense gut punch.
And his gentle-calm, low-growl voice provides the most profound delivery of this harmonic poetry. Listening to Zellar’s music is medicinal; it’s therapeutic. His tunes help right the ship when things seem painfully off course.
Y’know, like this dumpster fire year.
He’s also one of the most gracious and likable people I’ve ever met.
So, yeah. For me? This was a big deal. This was a big damn deal.
GREEN LIGHT
We needed to adjust the date for the show – and again later, because Mother Nature is a big ’ol bitch sometimes – and attendance would have to be extremely limited (thanks a lot, COVID), but I received confirmation that the house concert was a go.
Holy shit!
I was overjoyed to FINALLY have something to be excited about, since excitement wasn’t really a thing anymore.
I prepared and planned, and I mapped out the performance area and spots for guests, allowing plenty of space for social distance seating. We set up tents and stocked the coolers and purchased way too many snacks. We bought extra masks and hand sanitizer and caution tape – because who even knows what’s real anymore?
And I vacuumed the patio.
I VACUUMED. The PATIO.
And when the day came and Martin pulled into the driveway, I was stoked. So. Unbelievably. Stoked.
He met the dogs almost immediately, because dogs. I mean, they had no idea who he was but were just thrilled to see and sniff another person.
We showed Martin where he’d be setting up and gave him a tour of the house. He met the cats, talked trains with my then-husband, and commented on my collection of Daniel Craig-era 007 posters lining the basement hallway.
Which led to an awesome back and forth about Daniel Craig being the best James Bond. Ever.
Side note: My dad likes Martin “even more now” after learning of his Double-O preference.
With his sound system ready to go – thanks to a little help from our pooch, Chet the Roadie – and the undersized but enthusiastic crowd trickling in, we were set to safely get this Martin Zellar: Social Distance Tour 2020 House Concert Series™ show started.
I almost wrote up a set list – as a joke, only because I know he never uses them.
STRUMMIN’ AND HUMMIN’
Martin opened this 2-set, backyard show with Gear Daddies staple “Statue of Jesus” and then kicked up the tempo with “Goodbye Marie.” After encouraging requests he cranked out “Ten Year Coin,” which I would have asked for anyway, because I love that tune.
And then he belted out my favorite, “Blown Kisses.”
He sang “Everything We Had” and the ultra-heavy “Took the Poison,” both of which I dig like crazy but hadn’t heard performed live in far too long. And we were even treated to some of his newer tunes: “Rose of Jericho” and, by request, “A Thousand Little Things.”
To his credit, Martin honored our other requests, too, as we shouted them out throughout the evening.
He tenderly delivered “So Far Away” and “Brown-Eyed Boy” back-to-back, and I’ll never grow tired of hearing about the influence behind their lyrics. He strummed and hummed a little Neil Diamond “Kentucky Woman.” And though he said he couldn’t remember all the words he nevertheless crooned that achingly beautiful Yazoo tune “Only You.”
And it was perfect.
He paused mid-song only twice and just long enough to swat a mosquito from his arm (I swear we sprayed for those bastards!), or visually do a quick key check before putting his harmonica to work.
As the evening rolled on and the patio lights took over when the sun’s glow surrendered, we sang along to the timeless classics “She’s Happy” and “Wear Your Crown.” We felt that “Low Road” crescendo and joined Martin in hitting those elevated pitches in “Cut Me Off.”
And “Don’t Forget Me” is a wistful song anyway. But on this night, especially, its lyrics hit me like a semi.
“Cause on certain nights when the crowd’s just right/The magic can return/I took so much for granted then; I took so much for granted…”
Jesus.
Those words practically reached into my chest and squeezed from it every possible emotion.
(Deep breath)
Maybe it was because I hadn’t been to a show in forever. Or because this was such a big deal to me. Or because, despite everything else this year had taken away, my favorite musician was on our patio, singing some of my favorite songs – and, on this night, nothing else had to matter.
Or it was ALL of that.
NO HIGH FIVES
Between songs Martin made us smile and laugh, the way he does, with those whip-smart observations and his endearing, self-deprecating humor. And with those narratives he weaves with such detail that you both envision AND feel each experience.
We heard about his family, about his home, and about Randy. Hooray!
Martin shared some insight on how “Stupid Boy” wasn’t supposed to be the quick-paced toe-tapper we all know and love, and… wait, WHAT?!?!
And while we neither heard nor requested “Zamboni,” we did listen as he recalled the most amazing story involving that song, an opportunity, an ultimatum – and the process by which one measures the value of his soul.
If ever there was a high-five moment, THIS was it.
But there were no high fives. There were no handshakes, and there were no hugs. We couldn’t do any of that. Not right now. Not tonight.
This night was about refueling our spirits with solid, soul-stirring tunes. About being respectful and keeping everyone safe.
About being grateful to this talented guy for sharing with us his music, his energy, and his heart – which, for one mid-August night, inspired the return of that magic we so desperately needed to feel.
And it was about, for the first time in a long, LONG time, being excited for something that allowed us to feel happy.
This year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has selected nine titles to duke it out for its Best Picture prize. I once again saw all of them and have some ideas on which title(s) should take home Oscar gold.
Let’s just get to it, shall we? The nominees, in the order in which I saw them, are:
JOKER
What’s the big deal? This haunting tale of Arthur Fleck’s downward spiral into madness is highlighted by that captivating performance from Joaquin Phoenix. Director Todd Phillips’ masterful camerawork helps define this character’s mindset, and the artistic look of “Joker” breaths life into his desolation.
Will it win? No. Superhero – and supervillain – movies have only recently gained recognition as legitimate contenders. But at this point AMPAS would sooner shit a solid gold statuette than award Best Picture to a “comic book movie.”
FORD V FERRARI
What’s the big deal? American automotive designer Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) and British race car driver Ken Miles (Christian Bale, SNUB) work to build a machine for the Ford Motor Co. that’s capable of taking on Ferrari in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance event. “Ford v Ferrari” goes beyond the sport to explore the relationships of its characters and the science behind the designs.
Will it win? Probably not. But Bale should have been recognized for his endearing, playful, and entertaining performance.
ONCE UPON A TIME… IN HOLLYWOOD
What’s the big deal? A 1950s TV Western star (Leonardo DiCaprio, up for Best Actor) and his stunt double (Supporting Actor nominee Brad Pitt) struggle to find big screen success in the late-1960s Hollywood. This fable sprinkles touches of Tinseltown lore among its otherwise outrageous, amusing, and moderately violent narrative. But this is quintessential Quentin, so what do you expect?
Will it win? Maybe. Hollywood LOVES movies about itself, so the title alone gives “Once Upon a Time…” a leg up. Pitt is fantastic and almost surely will take home the Supporting Actor award.
1917
What’s the big deal? Director Sam Mendes tells this stunning and engaging story the only way that makes sense – as one continuous take. Breathtaking and brilliant and told essentially in real time, this one-shot wonder literally follows two young British soldiers on a dangerous mission to deliver a message to the front lines during World War I. And, oh by the way, it’s fucking amazing.
Will it win? Yes. If you’ve seen the film, you know it, too. I don’t need to explain anything.
MARRIAGE STORY
What’s the big deal? This intuitive, honest, and uncomfortable examination of a crumbling marriage will hit you in the feels. Can we just for a second pause and reflect on that visceral shouting match that takes place in Charlie’s living room? My god! Scarlett Johansson, who finally seems comfortable onscreen, and Adam Driver more than deserve their acting nominations.
Will it win? While “Marriage Story” has a strong emotional resonance, I don’t think that’s enough to secure this year’s title. I would, though, love to see Driver steal that Best Actor win from Phoenix.
JOJO RABBIT
What’s the big deal? Absurd humor and whimsical visuals balance weighty issues in this World War II tale that’s saturated with subtle and obvious satire. Jojo (Roman Griffin Davis, who is outstanding and should have been nominated for Best Actor; I don’t care if he’s only 12) discovers a young Jewish girl (Thomasin McKenzie) hiding in his home, causing Jojo to evaluate his loyalty to Hitler’s army. Take notice of the astute correlation between the film’s cheeky vibe and Jojo’s journey.
Will it win? Doubtful. But this is my second favorite film of the nine, so if a dark horse hopeful exists….
THE IRISHMAN
What’s the big deal? (Another) Martin Scorsese mobster flick, starring Robert DeNiro, Joe Pesci, and Al Pacino. I know. Oh, and it’s five days long. I’m exaggerating, but barely.
Will it win? You know, I kind of hope not. I thought “The Irishman” was fine, but I wasn’t blown away (heh). I feel like this nomination stems mainly from the marquee names pinned to the film’s credits.
LITTLE WOMEN
What’s the big deal? Written and thoughtfully directed by Greta Gerwig (SNUB), this stunning adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel chronicles the lives of four sisters, each very different and uniquely determined.
Will it win? I don’t think so, but wouldn’t that be a satisfying “up your ass” for Gerwig? And how about the inspired and powerful performances from Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh? Ronan could give Renée Zellweger a run for her Best Actress money. Fingers crossed!
PARASITE
What’s the big deal? What a bizarre mix of genres. Bong Joon Ho intentionally and sensibly intertwines these classifications, and the result is altogether fascinating. I dare you to look away. Filled with layers of symbolism, this flick will occupy your mind long after the credits roll (read this again). Yeah, we’re talking next-level symbolism here.
Will it win? It might, but I think this could be the “Roma” saga revisited. “Parasite” is also nominated for International Feature Film and most likely will take home that prize, leaving the night’s overall Best Picture title up for grabs – and awarded to “1917.” Wink.
And there you have it. But let us not forget: The Academy doesn’t care what I think.
Watch the 92nd Academy Awards on February 9 to see if your top picks take home a top prize.
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow her on Twitter @movieaddictmel, and “like” her Facebook page www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
The new Sam Mendes epic war drama “1917” is a Best Picture contender for one simple reason: It’s fucking amazing.
Which, once I picked up my jaw from the floor, is exactly what I said to my husband after we saw the movie last week. He agreed.
Nominated for 10 Academy Awards, “1917” follows two young British soldiers on a seemingly impossible mission during World War I. The pair must venture through no man’s land and deliver orders calling off an impending attack to prevent 1,600 troops, including one soldier’s brother, from walking into certain death.
And when I say “follows,” I mean it literally.
Best Director nominee Mendes presents this story in one long, fluid shot (he gave us a taste of this in the opening scene of 2015’s “Spectre”). From the moment we meet Lance Corporals Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) and Schofield (George MacKay) in an open meadow, we’re buckled in for the journey – every uninterrupted step of the way.
This one-shot technique (one of my favorites, when its use is this purposeful) allows Mendes to tell us this story essentially in real time. And his vision is nothing less than brilliant; his camera placement puts us squarely in the middle of the action.
The audience sees, learns, and experiences everything alongside and in sync with these characters, which creates a level of anxiety that must be felt to be understood. We know nothing beyond the frame of the camera, and that uncertainty heightens both curiosity and concentration.
And all the while this continuous scene refuses to blink, keeping us on edge and hanging on every. Single. Movement.
The occasional pivot or rotation or close-up gives a slightly different perspective and some additional detail, but our attention by way of the lens never deviates from its focus. And that slow zoom – the camera barely inching closer – on General Erinmore (Colin Firth) as he doles out this mission at the film’s start gives every indication of its importance.
If your heart isn’t already pounding out of your chest, those background drum beats add to the film’s intensity and fully express the significance of this race against time.
The tension is real.
In addition to calling shots behind the camera, Sam Mendes also gets his first writing credit here. Those efforts earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.
I don’t see many war movies, but “1917” is beyond impressive. I was completely mesmerized and have been raving about this flick since I left the theater. As if the story itself isn’t fascinating enough, the seemingly seamless visuals will blow your mind.
“Stories are nothing unless you’re emotionally engaged,” Mendes said in an IMDb On the Scene interview.
His statement is a hundred percent accurate, and presenting “1917” as one long take was the only way to effectively tell this story.
I held my breath. I jumped. I winced, and I gasped.
And I loved every minute of it.
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow her on Twitter @movieaddictmel, and “like” her Facebook page www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
“Knives Out” is the (fairly) new dramatic crime thriller from
writer-director Rian Johnson (“Star Wars: The Last Jedi”). The movie also incorporates
bits of dark and twisted humor – which is exactly how I like my comedy – and an
ongoing element of mystery that keeps its audience fully engaged.
On the night of his 85th birthday, esteemed crime writer Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) dies. Enter Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, meow!), with his analytical mind, a judging gaze, and that “Kentucky-fried Foghorn Leghorn drawl.”
Without question, Detective Blanc thinks something is fishy
about Harlan’s death.
“I suspect foul play,” he says.
And, with the help of Lieutenant Elliott (LaKeith Stanfield)
and Trooper Wagner (Noah Segan), Detective Blanc proceeds to question the estate’s
staff and, one-by-one, the members of Harlan’s unstable, self-absorbed family.
Blanc’s hope? To see through the smoke screens and beyond
the distractions to find out what really happened to Harlan Thrombey.
If you’re paying attention, you know something is up from the moment each family member – including daughter Linda (Jamie Lee Curtis); son-in-law Richard (Don Johnson); son Walt (Michael Shannon); and grandchildren Ransom (Chris Evans), Meg (Katherine Langford), and Jacob (Jaeden Martell) – is seated for the inquisition.
Those close-up shots almost scream deception. And the slow zooms
and pull backs as each character recalls the events of the evening in question hint
that what we’re hearing and seeing may not entirely be the truth.
Director Johnson shuffles in helpful flashbacks that crisscross
the storyline and help fill in the events we didn’t see that led up to
the outcome serving as the film’s crux.
Either nothing or everything is exactly what it seems. And as
Detective Blanc attempts to uncover the mystery, the audience is right there
with him.
“Knives Out” is an unpredictable yet delightful shell game.
The storyline is a magician’s pursuit that keeps its
audience disoriented and speculating and hanging on every word, sound, movement,
or glance. Everything could be a clue – or a diversion.
If you haven’t yet seen this flick, I highly recommend giving it a look. If you have seen it, I’d suggest watching this fun, shrewd puzzle again – to take notice of all the pieces that are hiding in plain sight.
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow her on Twitter @movieaddictmel, and “like” her Facebook page www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
The trailer for “Yesterday” first caught my ear – and then it caught my attention.
Incorporating tunes from the Beatles into pretty much anything deserves an automatic high five. But I was super intrigued, because the premise of this flick sounded like one of the freshest ideas to come along in decades.
Stop me if you’ve heard this one (and you won’t, because you haven’t): A talented but unknown musician struggles to make a name for himself when a freak incident symbolically aligns the stars and presents Jack Malik (Himesh Patel) with a career-making opportunity.
After waking up in a hospital bed, Jack learns from his manager friend Ellie (Lily James) that “the electricity flicked off for 12 seconds” worldwide the night before. This was just enough time for Jack to get hit by a bus – and to alter the course of music history.
Gifted with a new guitar by his saucy but loyal friends, Jack is encouraged by them to “play something.” And since “a great guitar requires a great song,” Jack proceeds to perform a snippet of “Yesterday.”
A delicate camera spin captures the awakened reactions from Jack’s friends while creating a soothing vibe that’s enhanced by Jack’s vocals and harmonious strumming.
Gasp.
He has just played them “one of the greatest songs ever written.” Only problem is, no one’s ever heard it before.
The Beatles? Shrug.
Mention of the band’s name elicits only confusion – and a valid question from Jack’s friend Rocky (Joel Fry): “Like, insect beetles or the car Beetles?”
Despite his research, Jack finds nothing to prove this English rock band from Liverpool ever existed. But he remembers the band, and he knows the songs. So, he’s got an idea…
“Yesterday” is so much fun. The absurdity of the plot line mixed with the camera’s funky angles and quick edits gives the movie an enjoyable and upbeat feel that will keep you smiling from start to finish.
And if for some reason that doesn’t do the trick, the whip-smart banter between Jack and his friends will keep you engaged with its snap and snark.
Patel is outstanding. OUTSTANDING! His dumbfounded responses to the aftermath of the blackout are surpassed only by his vocal talents. Don’t worry for a second that this guy doesn’t do justice to legendary songs such as “Hey Jude,” “Let It Be” and “In My Life.” I was so impressed to the deepest depths by every aspect of what Patel delivered.
Also, a shout out and bonus points to whomever slipped The Fratellis shirt into the wardrobe selection.
Lily James is a delight, and her eleventh-hour statement to Jack will hit you right in the feels. Joel Fry plays Rocky with a charm so ridiculous that he’ll win you over with his first blank stare.
Big names have small parts in “Yesterday” as well. Ed Sheeran plays himself, and he’s actually really funny.
James Corden also makes an appearance, which made me wonder if this movie was in any way inspired by the Late Late Show host’s incredibly moving Carpool Karaoke with Sir Paul McCartney. I could find nothing online to confirm this, but it’s nevertheless worth a mention. That installment is still one of the single best pieces of entertainment that has ever been produced.
“Yesterday” is highly entertaining as well. The performances are amazing. The laughs are genuine. The songs are classic, profound, timeless.
And the idea certainly is new, but let’s be glad we don’t have to imagine a world without the Beatles.
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow her on Twitter @movieaddictmel, and “like” her Facebook page www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe have been waiting with
bated breath for about a year for the arrival of “Avengers: Endgame” and no
doubt have seen the film’s ambiguous trailer at least once – or, more likely,
two dozen times.
The plot has been so shrouded in secrecy that one of the
movie’s stars filmed a scene without any knowledge of what was happening with
his or her character.
And I’m not an asshole. So out of respect for those who
haven’t yet purchased tickets, everything here also is intentionally vague.
You’re welcome.
“Endgame” is the 22nd film in the MCU and has the
enormous task of wrapping up the all-encompassing narrative with which we’ve
been engrossed since 2008’s “Iron Man.”
And with so much to cover it’s no wonder this flick’s run
time exceeds three hours; however, its pace keeps the action rolling such that
you won’t even notice the time investment. But I wouldn’t recommend getting the
extra-large beverage, because your bladder might be less forgiving than your
brain.
Seeing the previous titles obviously is helpful, just to be
sure that you’re neither missing nor confused by a face or a name or a
reference – or a joke. And because this is Marvel, you know there will be humor.
My husband and I saw “Endgame” on back-to-back,
opening-weekend nights, and reactions from the sold-out crowds at each showing
made for an enthusiastically interactive experience, which was so much fun.
Viewers cheered and gasped and sniffled and laughed, all of
which is typical – some more than others – when watching a Marvel flick.
But I think folks were more affected this time – because the
investment is so extensive, and the stakes are higher than ever before: “Whatever
it takes.”
This one signifies the end of an era, so it means a little
bit more.
And audiences get that.
The only thing I will tell you for sure is that “Endgame” is
worth it. Go see it. It’s a doozy, and it’s one final chance to see the “Avengers…
assemble.”
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow her on Twitter @movieaddictmel, and “like” her Facebook page www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
It has been a long, long time since I last saw the 1941 original “Dumbo,” so there’s very little about it that I remember – y’know, aside from the obvious “cute baby elephant with piercing blue eyes and ears big enough to pick up free HBO.”
But what’s not to love about the idea of a live-action version,
directed by Tim Burton and co-starring a villainous Michael Keaton, right?
This new “Dumbo” drops us into Sarasota, Florida, circa 1919 and
the financially strapped Medici Brothers’ Circus (psst… keep an eye on that
sign).
Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell), the lead of former stand-out act The Stallion Stars, returns from war, no longer able to do the thing that sells the tickets.
It’s obvious that the show is struggling: “We’re all wearing
multiple hats.” But Master of Ceremonies Max Medici (Danny DeVito) has his
hopes and livelihood invested in an Asian female elephant, and “… she’s havin’
a baby!”
But when that baby’s freakishly large ears appear to be a hiccup
Holt’s children – science whiz Milly (Nico Parker) and the always curious Joe
(Finley Hobbins) – accidentally discover otherwise.
If you thought the title character from the animated original
was adorable (and who didn’t?!), wait’ll you see the star of this show.
Heart. Melt.
There’s a lot to like about the new “Dumbo,” but it wasn’t the
emotional force I really was hoping for.
Don’t get me wrong; Dumbo is precious, and his cuteness is what
saves this film. His big, eager eyes and affinity for plumage is worth the
price of admission for sure.
The story is fine, though my husband was upset at the omission
of some memorable events from the original.
The acting is engaging, and Keaton’s bad guy is both comical (“Is
that a monkey in your desk?”) and dastardly, safe enough to not scare the young
‘uns but smarmy to the point that you understand his intentions. And if you
don’t, the shadows in which his likeness is cast will no doubt spell it out.
There are plenty of harrowing moments as well as scenes that
will give a little tug at your heartstrings, make you chuckle and keep you
invested; there’s the occasional (trippy) nod to the original, and a tip of the
hat to Busby Berkeley musicals; those shots from Dumbo’s perspective take us
for a ride and offer a lovely flying elephant’s eye view.
So, if you have any interest in this little pachyderm’s
live-action adventure with its seamless and often dazzling effects, it’s worth
investing your time.
It’s cute, it’s very
pretty, and it’s enjoyable. And in this case, that’s enough.
“Dumbo” likely won’t leave you bawling your eyes out, but maybe
that’s a good thing.
You have just enjoyed the insights of Movie Addict Mel, a cinema dork and conversational writer. Follow her on Twitter @movieaddictmel, and “like” her Facebook page www.facebook.com/movieaddictmel.
