Issue 1/ May 2020
On the cover: A Gentleman’s Guide to running an empire pg. 10 What’s hot in quarantine pg. 4 New releases pg. 12 Director spotlight pg. 14 Flashback reviews pg. 16
Inside: A special look at the Harry Potter Studio tour on pg. 6
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Letter from the Editor
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elcome all to the inaugural Give Movies A Chance publication!
This has been a dream in the making. Having neither the time nor the resources to create my magazine until COVID-19, I discovered that I did, in fact have the ability to bring my movie review blog to a bigger platform. I first began my movie review blog Give Movies A Chance while studying journalism at the University of South Florida. It was on blogspot.com that I originally posted my reviews, even starting a music review page that died as quickly as it started. So, why Give Movies A Chance? Well, I was tired of seeing low ratings for movies I enjoy and others being discouraged to make a trek to the movies. I think every movie deserves a chance to be watched, regardless what the critics think.
While I’ve been bummed out like many others that our movie theaters have closed, I’ve been enjoying my huge collection of DVD’s, and now and then paying to rent something On Demand.
Since beginning a proper journalism career with my community paper, The Hometown News, I’m afraid my motivation to continue writing reviews went on a backburner, but my passion for watching movies certainly did not. I hope you’ll enjoy perusing my publication, or at least the pretty pictures. Here you’ll find When I discovered MoviePass two years ago, I quite a mix of genres so there’s bound to be a quickly hopped on the ‘hype train’, paying $10 little something for everyone. If you have any a month to watch unlimited movies at any movie suggestions, I’m always open to hear movie theater. When the company discovered them! too many people were taking advantage of this Happy reading, cheap access to movies, restrictions went in place and I switched over to AMC’s “A-List” Brittany Mulligan subscription. I haven’t looked back since.
To submit your reviews for consideration, please email givemoviesachance@gmail.com with the subject “SUBMISSION”. Visit brittanymulligan.wordpress.com for more reviews.
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Coming soon May Scoob! (May 15 Video On Demand) The Lovebirds (May 22 on Netflix)
June Artemis Fowl (May 12 on Disney+)
July
The King’s Man (Sept. 18) Candyman (Sept. 25) Last Night in Soho (Sept. 25)
Tenet (July 17) Mulan (July 24)
October
August The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run (Aug. 7) Wonder Woman 1984 (Aug. 14) Bill & Ted Face the Music (Aug. 21) The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard (Aug. 28)
September A Quiet Place Part II (Sept. 4) Monster Hunter (Sept. 4) The Beatles: Get Back (Sept. 4) The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (Sept. 11)
BIOS (Oct. 2) Death on the Nile (Oct. 9) The Witches (Oct. 9) The French Dispatch (Oct. 16) Snake Eyes (Oct. 16) Halloween Kills (Oct. 16)
November Black Widow (Nov. 6) Stillwater (Nov. 6) Godzilla vs. Kong (Nov. 20) Soul (Nov. 20) Happiest Season (Nov. 25) No Time To Die (Nov. 25)
December Free Guy (Dec. 11) Dune (Dec. 18) West Side Story (Dec. 18) Coming 2 America (Dec. 18)
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Being in lockdown doesn’t have to be so boring. I’ve made a quarantine resolution to catch up on some of my favorite movies during this time. First up is a review of a renewed favorite of mine “Midnight in Paris”. Starring Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Marion Cottilard, Michael Sheen Directed by Woody Allen Rating: A
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couple visits Paris with two completely different mindsets as to how they should enjoy it. Gil (Wilson) is a Hollywood script writer dreaming of moving to the city of love while working on his first novel. His fiancée, Inez (McAdams), can’t imagine entertaining the idea of moving out of the United States, and would rather hang on to the words of a know-it-all professor she once had a crush on that is visiting Paris simultaneously. During a midnight stroll, Gil finds himself transported to the 1920s where he has interactions with the Fitzgeralds, Hemingway, Picasso, Dali and Porter. Hemingway introduces Gil to Gertrude Stein and Adriana (Cotillard), a woman who finds herself romantically entangled with many great artists. Gil finds himself torn between the life he knows and the life he
longs for. “Midnight In Paris” is one of my favorite movies that captures Paris in such a beautiful way. The opening scenes alone set up the enchantment Paris has among many residents and visitors. Watching this movie, you can’t help but fall in love with the city as Gil does. Gil is a character most people can relate to, a hopeless romantic stuck in a past he longs to be a part of. When Gil discovers he can go back to the French 1920s at midnight, at first you question if he’s just dreaming. It seems too wonderful to be real. Then, when Gil tries to bring Inez with him to the past and it doesn’t work, it further demonstrates the rocky relationship they’re struggling to keep up. During
the day, Gil is lost in his reverie from the night before, which prevents him from seeing his present clearly. Inez is fed up with her fiancé, and spends her days shopping or touring the city with her professor. I was really pleased with how “Midnight In Paris” turned out. While it had its slow moments, it’s a movie that inspires the wanderlust in audiences. This movie may not fit everyone’s tastes but I would definitely recommend it if you are in love with a life other than your own culture and exploring the past. If you’re looking for a fastpaced action movie, this is not the movie for you. If you’re looking for romance, wonder, and losing yourself in the moment of the film, this is it.
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Silence Starring Andrew Garfield, Adam Driver, Liam Neeson Directed by Martin Scorsese Rating: A
How far would you go to prove your faith?
In 17th century Japan, Catholics were persecuted for their belief in God and so many went into hiding. Two Jesuit priests from Portugal ask permission to travel to this dangerous country to seek out Father Ferreira (Neeson) who has been missing in Japan for years and they believe to be in hiding. What the two priests find in Japan are small communities of people who are willing to risk their lives in order to receive Communion and attend Mass in the dark. If found out, Japanese officials give citizens a chance to renounce Jesus or be crucified. But what is worse, priests have been outlawed from visiting Japan so the cost of being discovered is even greater. I first saw this movie in 2016, and it is one that has stayed with me. It’s a truly moving film about
fighting for one’s faith and even dying for what you believe in. During the course of the film, as the two priests were hidden and protected by Japanese Catholics, you see how they are revered by the villagers. The villagers wish to be forgiven for their sins and to break bread as they have been taught. Even the few villagers who are caught and tortured leave their mark on audiences because it begs the question, would you die for God? “Silence” moves at a slow, grueling pace but the story is so captivating. As someone who has never heard of this specific trouble in Japan, it was horrendous to watch the ways officials would torture Catholics. While a religious film, I don’t think it’s meant to make converts out of the audiences. However, I do think it makes anyone with a bit of religious temperament to reflect deeply about how they have been treating their faith lately.
The Lazarus Effect Starring Olivia Wilde, Mark Duplass, Sarah Bolger, Donald Glover, Evan Peters Directed by David Gelb Rating: B-
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f doctors had the tools to bring patients back from the dead within minutes of dying, do they snatch the departed soul from an afterlife? Doctors Frank (Duplass) and Zoe (Wilde) work on perfecting a serum that will reanimate corpses. After years of trial and error, the doctors bring back a deceased dog
with stage five cataracts in both eyes. Soon after this discovery, the team’s scientific work is sold to a company and they are kicked out of the lab. Unless the team replicates the serum, they will not be credited. “The Lazarus Effect” is a terrifying movie, using sights and sounds to create a suspenseful environment. Multiple jump-scares throughout build tension for the acts of horror Zoe commits.
The World’s End
now “The World’s End”, the main characters end up in a village where it’s Starring Simon Pegg, “them” against the Nick Frost, Martin community. Freeman, Rosamund Gary (Pegg) is facing a Pike mid-life crisis in rehab Directed by Edgar Wright when he realizes his life Rating: B never got better after one legendary night. His solution? Call up the gang to finish the golden cting duo Pegg and mile pub crawl in their Frost continue their hometown. comedic communityPast fans shouldn’t be themed films in this pubdisappointed in the latest crawl, apocalyptic fest. product of Edgar Wright As in “Shaun of the and Simon Pegg. Dead”, “Hot Fuzz” and
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The making of a Harry Potter fan’s dream come true Editor’s Note: I wrote this piece in 2016 Watford? after a whirlwind trip to London to visit As it turns out, it’s pretty close to the Harry Potter Studio Tour. what you’ll see on the tour. Even the Harry Potter actors themselves who have visited the theme parks have ecently I had the opportunity to been reported as agreeing that it was visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour very well made. Universal’s Harry “The Making of Harry Potter” in Potter world, large and immersive as Watford, Great Britain. As a huge it may be, is just what an ultimate Harry Potter fan, I can tell you, it fan dreams of. was an amazing experience. The Watford tour starts out with a Having visited both Universal short video presentation with Harry Studios “Harry Potter” attractions in Potter actors Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Orlando, it was interesting to Potter), Emma Watson (Hermione compare the real sets used in the Granger) and Rupert Grint (Ron movies to the theme park attraction. According to the Universal Orlando Weasley) explaining the significance of what it took to create the eight website, president of Universal films and all of the hard work the Creative and Universal parks & movie crew put in to bring the books resorts Mark Woodbury said the to life on film. creation of the Universal Studios At the end of the video, the large Harry Potter attractions was a screen that displayed the combined effort with Warner Bros. presentation scrolls up into the Studios and the filmmakers of the ceiling to reveal the magnificent Harry Potter movies. wooden doors that lead into the When stepping in to the world of Great Hall. It’s a jaw-dropping Harry Potter at these parks, it’s an moment, to be confronted by these authentic experience that immerses doors that will lead you into Harry’s visitors inside the wizarding world. world. But just how authentic is it A lot of memorable moments have compared to the actual sets and happened in this hall on film. Harry props found at the studio tour in Potter was sorted into Gryffindor
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during his first year; the Yule Ball took place here during the Triwizard Tournament; Fred and George Weasley set off a bunch of fireworks when they were fed up with Professor Umbridge, who was running the school like a mad tyrant; and last but not least, Harry stepped forward to reveal his presence in the school, when Voldemort took over the wizarding world in Deathly Hallows, and he wanted Harry dead. Here in this room, great actors such as Richard Harris (Professor Dumbledore in the first two movies), Michael Gambon (Professor
Dumbledore in the rest of the movies), Alan Rickman (Professor Snape), Maggie Smith (Professor McGonagall) and a multitude of talented actors and actresses have stepped foot in this hall on film. After a brief explanation of the props in the hall by a staff member, we were told that the rest of the tour is to be taken at our own pace. It’s a minimum of two hours to go through, and the current record of the longest time anyone has taken on the tour is 13.5 hours. There are two studios to go through, which contain a variety of POTTER continued on page 8
POTTER from page 7
sets and thousands, if not millions, of props. There has been so much attention to detail paid to these movies that each prop is unique to look at. The sets range from the Gryffindor common room and boy’s dormitory to the Weasley’s kitchen, Professor Dumbledore’s office, the potion’s classroom, the dining room in Malfoy Manor where a significant Death Eater meeting took place in Deathly Hallows, Diagon Alley, Privet Drive, the Ministry of Magic and the Hogwarts Express. While at Universal Studios Orlando, Dumbledore’s office and the Gryffindor common room are available to see in Hogwart’s. Yet, visitors only have a few minutes to shuffle along a line as they move toward the ride in the castle. This tour gives visitors a chance to take their time with it. One thing I do have to mention is that while being on the set of Diagon Alley is impressive, it’s a lot more fun to visit it in Orlando. For one, you can actually go in most of the shops, and it’s a lot larger and immersive in the theme park. Back in the studios, a variety of costumes worn in the movies are shown on display. The makeup department has left behind wigs and prosthetics that were put on actors throughout the films.
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Creatures from Buckbeak the hippogriff to a basilisk, werewolves and Aragog, are just a few of the bigger props that have taken filmmakers hours to look realistic. Some of my favorite props to see were the mirror of Erised, the entrance gate to Hogwarts grounds, horcruxes, the door that leads to the Chamber of Secrets, the Black family tapestry and the Ford Anglia, which Harry and Ron flew to Hogwarts during their second year. Although Hogwarts castle is too large to fit inside the studios, and was filmed at
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multiple locations, a 1:24 scale model is as close to what visitors will get to see of the castle in the tour (pictured above). According to organizers, it took 86 artists to construct this magnificent model. It is sure to make most Harry Potter fans want a model like this in their own homes. In between the studio tour from studios J and K is a rest area where visitors can grab a Butterbeer or a bite to eat. This is one of the moments any fan should look forward to, as Butterbeer is a drink
referred to in the books and movies. A non-alcoholic version has been made for visitors to enjoy at the tour and Universal Studios. Unfortunately, the tour only offers regular Butterbeer, a cold butterscotch-flavored drink which pales in comparison to the frozen, slushy variety or hot drink offered by Universal Studios. The foam is definitely the best attribute to the drink, in my opinion. And as at the end of any tour: the gift shop. While most of the items can be found at the Universal Studios parks or airport store in Orlando, there are way more items for sale in this massive gift shop. It’s like a Harry Potter fan’s dream come true, and it was tempting to buy everything offered. For those with House pride (Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin), a variety of Hogwarts uniforms, robes, journals, drinking glasses, pins, scarves and more are available to represent your house. There are board games, books, jewelry, bookmarks, clothing, stuffed animals, magnets, stationary, candy, you-name-it and it’s available. So, while visiting Universal Studio’s Harry Potter attractions is a great experience, going to the Watford tour is a must for any huge Harry Potter fan.
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The Gentlemen Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Hugh Grant, Henry Golding, Michelle Dockery, Jeremy Strong, Colin Farrell Directed by Guy Ritchie Rating: B+ Post-credit scenes: just dancing/ rapping
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n American gangster named Mickey Pearson (McConaughey) is approaching retirement but finds his London empire threatened as he seeks a new head to take it over. looks like he’s having too much fun here, which really sells his shady and unsavory character. Every time he appears on screen you just want to wash your hands of him. On the other hand, as the main character, Pearson is rather laid back after getting his hands dirty in building up his marijuana empire. Fletcher (Grant) is an absolute sleaze-ball private detective looking Pearson has risen through the ranks of England’s nobility, using their to make serious money off of estates to manufacture some of the Pearson’s retirement. He crafts the perfect feature article, which he then best pot England has ever seen. The tries to sell to Pearson’s top dog No. nobility earns their share to keep up 2 guy Ray (Hunnam), before the rest the expenses of owning mansions. With the legalization of pot on the of the plot catches up and we get to horizon in the next decade, Pearson the ending. Fletcher ingratiates himself with Ray by acting like he’s looks for a fresh, untainted face to keep his empire rolling. Dry Eye providing a favor, while in the (Golding) is another interfering meantime is looking out for the character who wants to prove his biggest cash payout. Hugh Grant “The Gentlemen” is a surprisingly fun, new-ish (2019 but theatrically released in 2020) gangster movie that has the right cast to pull it together. It’s full of intrigue, drama, violence and has just the right amount of sleaziness without making it too cheesy.
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worth and rise to the top of his family’s empire. Dry Eye is just another cog in the plot to keep everything mysterious and throw the audience in another direction. If anything, Hunnam’s Ray does all of the heavy-lifting in the movie. In a quiet tone that suggests a man who could easily snap if pressed the wrong way, Ray has to deal with a lot when it comes to protecting Pearson’s empire. “The Gentlemen” pulls everything together by the end that leaves no stone unturned. It gives you a new respect for Pearson, who defends his right to be “the king of the jungle” as is so often referenced throughout the film. Overall, if you’re looking for something to watch on a Friday night, “The Gentlemen” won’t be a disappointment.
Memorable lines
If you wish to be the king of the jungle, it’s not enough to act like a king. You must be the king. There can be no doubt. Because doubt causes chaos and one’s own demise.
There’s only one rule in the jungle: when the lion’s hungry, he eats!
A gentleman’s quote is a gentleman’s word.
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Is it more important to judge a society by their ideals, or their actions? have become complacent in their success, and many have turned to vices as a result. Thereafter, nearly invariably, vice begets corruption, which in turn am oftentimes surprised by the begets the erosion of society. demonstration of modern ideals It would appear that the social put forth by mass media; for instance, restraint in traditional community in the 2020 film “The Gentlemen”, there values (such as mutual respect1, is a significant portion of the film community support, often common dedicated to not only highlighting the religion2, etc.) have an important and ‘chav’ culture of British gang violence, significant role in the social benefit of but exhibiting that culture as if it were the community. something to be valued—a form of Thus, the question arises: is it more idealistic society. The film brandishes important to judge a society3 by their the ‘chavs’ as an ideal life, flaunting ideals, or by their actions? wealth, popularity, and vice, lording On one hand, a society is driven by its these over the any and all other social ideals—all societies contain certain bonds. myths, legends, stories, or popular There is, of course, a marked difference narratives; these are the conduit between what a single director offers as through which the social mores of a the ideal form of society and the community are described, presentation of a new form of society. demonstrated, and tested, often to their When the collective mass media breaking limits. Through folklore, a continuously highlights a certain way of community is allowed to ask taboo life, however, the social ‘ideals’ of a questions and delve into forbidden society begin to form the new social concepts—all though the safety of the mores. veneer of storytelling. Through stories, a Throughout history, many societies IDEALS continued on page 20 Authored by Oisín Ó Ruacháinn
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of the most powerful motivators of early societies was the threat of blood-feuds, or other retribution/revenge. 2The most successful societies, I have found, have been small
and homogeneous in form and function. Although these small societies often flourish with significant outside influence, the necessity of unifying religion, social mores, and adher-
ence to a collective rule seems to be an important factor in the continued success of the community. 3More specifically, a group of peoples, a community, etc.
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I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House Authored by Oisín Ó Ruacháinn
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he first sign of highly pretentious art is often a long and unnecessarily complicated title, and “I am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House” is no exception. Opening with a lengthy poem that drips with atmosphere and mystery, along with equally drawnout and dark visuals, “Pretty Thing” seems on the outset to be one of those films made with a passion for horror and unease, without the resorting to jump-scares or cheap thrills, much like “The VVitch” (2015)—”Pretty Thing”, however, is none of these. The movie, if it may be called that, lacks character development, character arcs, or even any sort of direction—it’s a beautiful film, but...that’s about it. It’s a film that belongs in a museum, but one would be hard-pressed to decide whether it belongs in the Postmodernism section or the traditional; “Pretty Thing” is a film
that absolutely reeks of pretension, but plays with light and dark visuals in a chiaroscuro-fashion. The plot to “Pretty Thing” is not so much ‘brief’ as it is ‘absolutely stunted’; it may be summed up in the following few lines: a young woman (whom according to the plot is 28, but is visually indiscernible between older, younger, or even teenage, if her portrayal in the film is to be followed closely) arrives at a house as a hospice nurse to an aged horror novelist. ...Without spoiling the ending, that is the extent of the film. There are no other developed characters, no developing perils, and nothing even coming close to an arc, character or otherwise. “Pretty Thing” is a film PRETTY continued on page 21
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New releases 2020
Black: International”, and “In the Heart of the Sea”. Here, Hemsworth takes on the role of Tyler Rake, a man with a past that haunts him throughout the movie as he takes on a Chris Hemsworth, Rudhraksh Jaiswal, Golshifteh job to extract a kidnapped drug lord’s son, Farahani, Randeep Hooda Directed by Sam Hargraves Ovi, from another drug lord in Dhaka, BangRating: Bladesh. In the first hour, there’s barely any dialogue but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. From the moment Rake gets involved, the etflix’s latest release “Extraction” is a movie takes viewers on a non-stop action two-hour, action-packed thriller that came as a surprise among the lack of new releases ride that it’s almost hard to keep up. It’s Rake versus the bad guys versus Saju, Ovi’s during this COVID-19 pandemic. Chris guardian while his father is in jail. When Hemsworth leads the story as a mercenary with nothing left to lose. We’ve all seen how Rake’s team tells him to drop the kid and leave for his own safety, Rake’s conscience fitting he is for the role after playing “Thor” pulls him in another direction. The whole in Marvel’s “Avengers” franchise, but audimovie offers edge-of-your-seat excitement as ences haven’t seen him like this before. If it hadn’t been for an interview on Jimmy bullets fly and a teen’s life is at stake. Rake has to be careful about who to trust to get Kimmel days before the Netflix release, I him out of the guarded city. would not have particularly cared to try While I prefer a movie with a little more “Extraction”. The lack of trailers and adversubstance, I think “Extraction” is one that tisements for it didn’t excite me but I had can easily entertain a wide audience. enjoyed Hemsworth in “Avengers”, “Men In
Extraction
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Underwater Starring Kristen Stewart, Vincent Cassel, T.J. Miller, John Gallagher Jr., Jessica Henwick, Mamoudou Athie Directed by William Eubank Post credit scenes: No Rating: C+
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esearchers working aboard a deep-sea drilling company fight for survival as something begins to destroy their facility. When the escape pods have all been launched from the main research building, the six remaining crewmembers must walk on the open ocean floor to another structure, which may or may not have more escape pods. “Underwater” is an intense, breathtaking, and underrated movie that premiered earlier in 2020, yet no one is talking about it. Watching the movie feels like you’re starting a movie halfway through its story, which may irritate some viewers but on the other hand, it’s kind of refreshing. You get to skip the boring build-up of character backgrounds and go directly into the action. That being said, “Underwater” lacks narrative but its strength is its intrigue. The bizarre nature of these deep-sea creatures makes you want to keep watching because unlike some thrillers, “Underwater” shows you the monster, and you don’t want to take your eyes away from it. For myself, I would have liked to see more story than constant action without it slowing down the pace of the movie. We don’t know what motivated these six survivors to work on a drill six miles deep into the Marianas Trench. We don’t know how long they’ve worked at the drill site or if they’ve ever gotten vacation time above the surface. That’s my only gripe with this movie.
Otherwise, I thought it was exciting, a little weird but something I could watch again. As I mentioned earlier, the movie doesn’t spend too much time giving you character’s backgrounds, but their actions speak louder than words. Each character is worth rooting for as they battle the unknown in the depths of the ocean. Kristen Stewart, although not the captain of the facility, very much takes the lead. As a mechanical engineer, she leads the other researchers through danger while Vincent Cassel, as the captain, is kind of just there for support. If you’re stuck inside looking for something spooky to watch, you may be pleasantly surprised by “Underwater”. If you’re one to fidget throughout slow movies, this should capture enough of your attention that you won’t realize you haven’t picked up your phone to play with yet.
Director spotlight
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Christopher Nolan
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icking off the first Director Appreciation spotlight, I thought I’d start off with one of my favorites. Christopher Nolan has directed and penned many successful films that I have grown to love over the years. Most notably, the themes often seen in his movies revolve around existential questions about identity and perception. Nolan has a few awards to back up his credentials such as winning five Academy Awards, six Golden Globes, and five BAFTAs. Nolan has a knack for getting a charismatic ensemble cast together for each movie. Big names draw big crowds, but it’s the intricately woven storyline that makes re -watching Nolan’s films enticing. A re-watch is high recommended because each time a small piece of the puzzle is discovered. This
happens every time I decide to watch “Inception” or “The Prestige” which both use narrative misdirection to lead the audience’s attention elsewhere. A crafty sleight of hand may be missed on the first watch but it’s these little parts of the movies that make it come together in the end. Usually on the first viewing, the audience’s attention is captured by trying to figure out the plot, remembering who the characters are, and keeping up with the conversation. It doesn’t leave much room for your brain to notice the minor pieces playing in the background. Then, come the ending, it feels like an epiphany when you realize what has just played out in front of you. To me, the movies Nolan has directed and wrote are genius. A few others think so too. According to Rotten Tomatoes, most of Nolan’s movies were rated at 85% or higher. So the best audience for a Nolan movie? His movies tend to go over the two hour mark and sometimes it’s best to “go with the flow” with confusing plots. If you don’t mind these two details then there is a chance Nolan may become one of your favorite directors, too.
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Murder on the Orient Express Authored by Oisín Ó Ruacháinn
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gatha Christie. The name is famous in literary circles as the monarch of mystery, and for good reason, too. Her novels have sold millions of copies since she began With the cinematic success publishing in of “Murder on the Orient Express”, the early 20th “Death on the Nile” seems to be a century. promising film for 2020. The setting for There have “Death on the Nile”, however, is sure to been a witnesses. The steal the show. The novella takes place plethora of case is in Egypt, with the focus of the action on retellings and eventually the Nile itself; with the recent adaptations of solved, and the 'resurrection' of interest in the Egyptian Agatha train is set in setting having had time settle in, a Christie’s most motion once new plot in Egypt is ripe for popular more without novels, based the taking. further on her crimemisadventures. solving leads Mary Marple The 2017 film adaption of and Hercule Poirot, the latest of “Murder on the Orient Express” which focuses on the latter. portrayed the original narrative Released on Nov. 10, 2017 with a focus on the stereotypical “Murder on the Orient Express” mystery-novel tropes, such as a features the story of mysterylocked-room murder, crosssolving detective Poirot traveling examining of witnesses, false aboard the Orient Express, testimonies and scanty evidence. seeking only to rest back in In theory and on paper, the film London. hits all the right marks for a good On the way there, however, a mystery— but on the big screen, passenger is found murdered, the plot takes a sure turn into and Poirot, “probably the world’s drama. greatest detective,” is called into Well before the halfway mark of action. the film, there was a moment that Throughout the story, Poirot I became conspicuously aware applies deduction, sentiment, and that I was no longer watching a wit to reveal the killer. A sudden film about solving a classic locked avalanche allows for Poirot to -room ‘whodunit,’ but rather a work on the case with ample character-driven drama, complete time, and the story focuses on the with intertwined backstories, love cross-examination of key EXPRESS continued on page 19
From books to film: anticipated releases The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins This recent release is set as a spinoff and prequel to the popular “Hunger Games” series. This story follows President Cornelius Snow 64 years earlier and takes place on the morning of the reaping for the Tenth Hunger Games. China Rich Girlfriend by Kevin Kwan The sequel to the wildly successful “Crazy Rich Asians” was slated to premiere in 2021 but with COVID-19, filming has been pushed back. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah A tale of love, courage, and sisterhood sets the tone of this historical fiction set during World War II Paris. The Fanning sisters have been cast in the lead roles.
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Flashback review The Upside (2017) Bryan Cranston, Kevin Hart, Nicole Kidman Directed by Neil Burger Rating: A
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The Upside” tells a heartwarming story of two unlikely friends and their friendship that turns their own lives around for the better. Phillip and Dell, played by Cranston and Hart respectively, have both become hardened by life through the cards they have been dealt with. Phillip, a quadriplegic due to a paragliding accident, is in need of a caregiver, and Dell, a man with a criminal record, is in need of signature’s proving he’s hunting for jobs or else he could end back in prison. Dell stumbles upon Phillip’s job interviewing by accident, demanding a quick signature on his employment sheet so he can pick up his son from school. Dell hardly notices Phillip’s condition, and his unobservant remarks about signatures lead to Phillip hiring Dell on the spot. For Phillip, Dell is a breath of fresh air from the people who tiptoe around his condition and therefore treat him like he’s invisible. Dell, impressed by the salary, learns the ropes of a caregiving role and strikes a friendship with his boss. Inspired by the true story of Phillippe Pozzo di Borgo and Abdel Sellou, “The Upside” takes some liberties at the retelling of their story. Yet, despite this, it is a touching and funny story with a very human message: people who may not have the same everyday functions as you are just as susceptible to love, pain, and keeping up friendships. In fact, Phillippe and Abdel are alive and still friends today.
Phillippe’s story was first brought to audiences in the French telling “Intouchables” (2011). It has since been re-told for Indian audiences “Oopiri” (2016) and Argentinian audiences “Inseparables” (2016). What I really enjoyed about this new version of Phillippe’s story is that the friendship between Phillip and Dell feels authentic, and I love the comedy between these two friends. Dell lifts Phillip up from a funk, and his treatment of Phillip as a human being – not just an invalid – shows how there are good people out there, even if they have a bad past. Cranston and Hart are perfectly cast for these two characters, and for those who may have some reservations about seeing a remake, I strongly encourage you to give it a chance. At the end of a day, it’s another story about human kindness, and I think we can all use a little bit of that in our world.
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Bridget Jones’s Baby Renee Zellweger, Colin Firth, Patrick Dempsey Directed by Sharon Maguire Rating: A
B
ridget Jones is BACK! Another sequel that deals with more drama as Bridget juggles two men once again, and yet “Bridget Jones’s Baby” is a must-see for those who loved the previous two movies. Bridget (Zellweger) finds herself single at age 43, but has kicked the cigarette habit and is down to her ideal weight. She is more confident in herself and has climbed up the corporate ladder to a successful career in the news. Yet her mum has to remind Bridget during a birthday phone call that life is passing her by and still no husband or baby. The clock is ticking, Bridget. Then, on a whim of new resolutions, Bridget sweeps herself off to a music festival
is, the two men must decide whether they want to be involved or if it’s too complicated to stick around. Sometimes hearing the word sequel makes me shake my head and wonder why movie makers just can’t leave a good thing alone. My expectations were low, so it was a delight to find that I where she meets a handsome was laughing quite frequently American (Dempsey) and just throughout “Bridget Jones’s so ends up in his tent in the Baby”. There’s the familiar feel middle of the night. Without of comedy from the first movie, exchanging information and a flashback to the good old treasuring the memory of an Bridget and Darcy days that unforgettable night, Bridget make you sigh, and an overall goes home without knowing his appreciation that the return of last name. Less than a week Bridget Jones was done right. later, she finds herself in bed The movie’s resolution feels with her ex, Mark Darcy (Firth) like just what the fans would after a few drinks and a have wanted for Bridget. If you lingering kiss… need a good laugh, this is it. What happens when you use The return of “Bridget” to the decades old condoms? Well, big screen will not be Bridget finds herself missing a disappointing. period and is pregnant. As she can’t work out who the father
EXPRESS continued from page 17
triangles, and wistful romances. Murder was dropped as the primary excuse for elusive answers by various suspicious characters, in favor of angst and moody train passengers. The cinematography alike was slightly unexpected, as director Kenneth Branagh (who also starred in the film as Poirot) used a full palette of techniques to design what may best be called a "creatively" shot
film. The film felt like the director was emulating Wes Anderson, who is well known for his creative and beautiful cinematography, but fell somewhat short. There were plenty of standard shots, like close-ups and tracking shots, but to these were added unusual ones that seemed so abrupt that both my date and her mother who came with us
commented on the odd juxtaposition. Overall, ‘The Murder on the Orient Express’ was a noteworthy film, and one that I’d recommend to see, especially on the silver screen. The scenery is beautiful, and many of the shots are provide an accurate sense of that beauty. For those looking for a classic mystery, however, look elsewhere.
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IDEALS from page 12
society may understand the acceptable social limits, and thus perform more smoothly. The reality of humanity in groups, on the other hand, can appear quite different than the ideal. Humans are by nature driven by a plethora of factors, most of them mysterious; vices, too, are a trait of Man: jealousy, spite, rage, love, hysteria and neurosis—ardor in nearly any form can quickly crumble any resemblance of social structure. There exists, therefore, the dichotomy betwixt the twain: the littera legis et spiritus legis4. So, ought a society to be judged by its actions, or its ideals? I propose that a society should be judged by its ideals rather than its actions: while action is the ultimate driver of history, the ideal of a community is what shapes that action; it has been said that ‘art is the product of time and place’; so, too, would I argue that action is a product of time and place. For instance, a person’s religion can be assumed with significant accuracy if given their time and place of birth; a person born in Norway, 740 CE would have little opportunity to come in contact with Hinduism, and would instead be surrounded by the Norse pantheon. His actions would be likewise
1The
shaped by that surrounding culture: his folklore would be filled with stories of vengeance, storytelling, fearlessness, and kinship, and completely lacking in the Christian concepts of ‘Good’ or ‘Evil’, instead being measured by whether or not they were appropriate for the situation5. In the same way, our modern, rapidly globalizing society is a product of our ‘folklore’—folklore which has been replaced by mass media. Through the lens of mass media, we are subjected to the whims of directors, newscasters, and political pundits, all whom shape our lives. More significantly, film and video games have the power to shape our social views by their utter replacement of native folklore; no longer are our ideals shaped by our local communities, but now are developed on a mass scale by the storytelling efforts of a relatively tiny group of writers, and those that approve their work. Our actions are the result of this group of people’s collective concepts of what is ‘right’, what is ‘wrong’, and what is ‘just’ in our globalizing society. Looking back to the rise and fall of societies before us, we must be careful to beware and be cognizant of the media we consume, and the actions that they develop.
‘letter of the law and the spirit of the law’. fellt at sevara’ : ‘That it is well appropriate to 2This is wonderfully related in the Old Norse answer such matters.’ idiomatic phrase, ‘sem slíkum málum sé vel
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PRETTY from page 13
speech is slow. The actors physically move at the speed of smell—my viewing partner offered to watch the film on 2.5x speed, and I’m still not convinced that’d be fast enough to make a decent pace. There are those critics, of course, that are elated to see a film like this, calling it ‘dramatic,’ or ‘brazen,’ and half a dozen critics use the term ‘atmospheric,’ the latter of with no purpose, and it ends in which is correct—Pretty Thing is much the same fashion. loaded with atmosphere; but To say that Pretty Thing is a slow without a payoff to that build-up, film is to be shockingly laconic— the audience is left not only Pretty Thing utterly crawls though wanting, but absolutely strungout. The film is an art-house the entirety of the 87-minute runtime, and the audience is given dream: it’s long, pointless, pretentious, and punctuated with ample room to feel every second flowery language—but among dragging by. The film feels like a everything that this film is, or presenter at an Emmy award shot might have been, there is one thing up with tranquilizers. The filming that is undeniable: it is boring. is slow. The pacing is slow. The Bad movies I watched so you don’t have to:
Predictable
I now pronounce you... Wasted your time
MeOUCH
CATS
FRACTURED
RACHEL GETTING MARRIED
