FOLLOWING FILMS

HBO's Veep stands as one of the defining political comedies of the modern era, deftly blending razor-sharp wit, cringe-inducing blunders, and a searing critique of Washington, D.C. Created by Armando Iannucci, Veep is a fast-paced, foul-mouthed satire that captures the relentless ambition and moral bankruptcy of modern politics. At the center of this chaotic storm is Julia Louis-Dreyfus, whose tour-de-force performance as Selina Meyer solidified her status as one of television’s greatest comedic talents. Across seven seasons, Veep not only remained consistently funny but evolved into a biting commentary on the absurdities of power, ambition, and ego. Season 1: The Vice Presidency Blues Veep wastes no time establishing its chaotic tone in Season 1, which introduces us to Selina Meyer (Louis-Dreyfus), the Vice President of the United States—a position that is, as she quickly discovers, largely ceremonial and without influence. Selina is surrounded by a motley crew of incompetent yet

Mike Mendez’s Killers is not the kind of film that lets you walk away unscathed. Released in 1996, the movie emerged at a time when the indie scene was still riding the wave of Tarantino-inspired grit and raw, low-budget energy. But while some may lump it in with other hyper-violent crime films of the era, Killers distinguishes itself by digging deeper into the dark psychology of its characters. Mendez’s directorial debut is a bleak, unrelenting dive into the minds of two deeply broken men, and while the film isn’t perfect, it’s an impressive first feature that showcases the filmmaker’s willingness to get his hands dirty—both figuratively and literally. Killers follows the story of two serial killers, Raymond (Dave Larsen) and Kyle (David Gunn), who embark on a brutal killing spree across the Midwest. The duo, though united by their violent tendencies, have distinct approaches to their horrific deeds. Raymond is older and more calculating, a veteran of depravity who derives a sick sati

"The West Wing," created by Aaron Sorkin and airing from 1999 to 2006, stands as one of the most critically acclaimed political dramas in television history. Set in the heart of the White House, the series offered a deeply immersive and at times idealistic look at the inner workings of American politics. With a strong ensemble cast led by Martin Sheen as President Josiah "Jed" Bartlet, the show was equal parts policy wonkery, personal drama, and inspiring rhetoric. It consistently balanced complex storylines with engaging characters, solidifying its place in the pantheon of great television. Across its seven-season run, "The West Wing" oscillated between moments of brilliance and occasional stumbles, largely following the trajectory of Sorkin’s involvement. From sweeping social issues to the personal dilemmas faced by the staffers in the West Wing, the series remained politically resonant, even prescient. Below is a closer look at each season, charting the

When Friends premiered on September 22, 1994, few could have predicted the cultural phenomenon it would become. Spanning ten seasons and 236 episodes, the show captured the essence of friendship, love, and the trials of adulthood through the lives of six characters living in Manhattan. Now, with Friends: The Complete Series available on stunning 4K UHD, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the show's lasting impact, its strengths, and the enduring charm that continues to resonate with audiences today. At its core, Friends follows Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston), Monica Geller (Courteney Cox), Phoebe Buffay (Lisa Kudrow), Ross Geller (David Schwimmer), Chandler Bing (Matthew Perry), and Joey Tribbiani (Matt LeBlanc). Set against the backdrop of New York City, the series navigates the complexities of friendship and relationships, often blending humor with poignant moments. What sets Friends apart from other sitcoms is its ability to balance these elements seamlessly, creating a rel

Vikings: Valhalla , a sequel to the acclaimed series Vikings, dives into the rugged and tumultuous world of the Norsemen with its own flair. Set a century after the events of the original series,  Valhalla  brings new characters, fresh conflicts, and a robust storyline that both honors and expands upon the legacy of its predecessor. Vikings: Valhalla  is set in the early 11th century, a time when the Viking Age is drawing to a close. The series introduces us to a new generation of Norse warriors and explorers, navigating the shifting tides of power in a world on the brink of change. The central plot revolves around the historical figures Leif Erikson (Sam Corlett), Freydis Eiriksdottir (Frida Gustavsson), and Harald Sigurdsson (Leo Suter), each of whom embarks on their own epic journeys. Leif, the son of Erik the Red, is portrayed as a visionary and a fearless leader. His character is driven by a mix of personal ambition and a desire to protect his people. Freydis, Leif’s sister, is eq

Asif Akbar's BONEYARD offers a gripping portrayal of a criminal investigation set against the stark, haunting landscape of the New Mexico desert. Inspired by the real-life West Mesa Murders, the film navigates the intricate dynamics of a multi-agency probe into a series of enigmatic disappearances. The film features a stellar cast, with Mel Gibson delivering a standout performance as FBI Agent Petrovick, a seasoned profiler grappling with personal demons. His portrayal adds a profound emotional depth to the narrative. Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson excels as Police Chief Carter, a driven leader dedicated to resolving the case. Brian Van Holt also delivers a notable performance as Detective Ortega, whose personal stakes further enrich the storyline. The New Mexico desert setting profoundly reflects the horror of the crimes under investigation. Its vast, desolate expanses symbolize the void left by the victims and their families. As the investigation progresses, the film delves i

"The Crippled Masters," a 1979 Hong Kong martial arts film, defies easy categorization.  It's a revenge story fueled by disability, a celebration of martial arts prowess, and a movie that walks a tightrope between inspiration and exploitation. The film stars real-life amputees Jackie Chan (no relation to Jackie Chan) and Frankie Shum as Chin and Pai, two students betrayed by their master, the villainous Master Yin (played with scenery-chewing gusto by Tien Shun).  Master Yin severs Chin's arms and Pai's legs, leaving them broken but not defeated.  Rescued by a traveling performer (played by the equally flamboyant Michelle Yeoh in an early role), Chin and Pai embark on a journey of training under the tutelage of a wise old master who resides in a basket (Tang Chiang).  They hone unique fighting styles, Chin wielding staffs with his feet and Pai becoming adept at kicking and grappling. "The Crippled Masters" is undeniably low-budget.  The dubbing is hilari

THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MAGICAL NEGROES is a thought-provoking film that wears two hats with surprising ease. On one hand, it's a sharp social commentary, using the trope of the "magical negro" to spark conversations about race relations in America. On the other, it's a delightful romantic comedy that introduces a talented new filmmaker. The film centers around Aren (Justice Smith), a young man recruited into a clandestine organization with a peculiar mission: making white people feel more comfortable. THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MAGICAL NEGROES utilizes their unique abilities (though the film playfully keeps the nature of these abilities ambiguous) to smooth over social interactions. Aren's initial assignment? Helping the shy Jason (Drew Tarver) find love with Lizzie (An-Li Bogan). However, sparks fly unexpectedly between Aren and Lizzie, throwing the Society's plans into disarray. This is where the film shines. While the racial commentary is present, it's wr

Francis Ford Coppola's 1982 film, "One From The Heart," is a mesmerizing exploration of love, loss, and the intoxicating allure of Las Vegas. Often misunderstood upon its release, the film has become a cult classic, captivating audiences with its unconventional approach to storytelling. This review delves into the film's key elements, examining how the acting, cinematography, direction, and hauntingly beautiful score by Tom Waits interweave to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. Teri Garr and Frederic Forrest deliver career-defining performances that surprise and resonate. Garr sheds her usual comedic charm to portray Frankie, a lounge singer yearning for connection. Her vulnerability shines through, particularly in scenes where she grapples with anxieties about commitment. Forrest embodies Hank, a man haunted by past mistakes, with a quiet stoicism masking emotional turmoil. Their chemistry is undeniable, a slow burn fueled by unspoken des

LISA FRANKENSTEIN isn't just a movie; it's a love letter to the misfits, the goths, and the dreamers of the '80s era. Director Zelda Williams crafts a stunning debut, blending horror and comedy into a neon-soaked homage that resonates with both swooning romance and biting humor. Diablo Cody's script shines with its signature wit, likely paving the way for another cult classic akin to Jennifer's Body. Set in 1989, Lisa Swallows (Kathryn Newton) is a high school senior navigating a new town haunted by her tragic past. Her father's hasty remarriage and a stepfamily straight out of a nightmare compound her sense of isolation. But when a bolt of green lightning resurrects the charming Creature (Cole Sprouse) from his grave, Lisa finds an unlikely ally in her quest for love and acceptance. Visually and aurally stunning, LISA FRANKENSTEIN transports viewers to a world of moody neons and dreamy aesthetics. Director of Photography Paula Huidobro and the creative team per

The Film While Illumination Entertainment's films may not always win over the critics, there's no denying the joy they bring to young audiences.  MIGRATION  is no exception, offering a delightful adventure that had my 8-year-old positively beaming from start to finish. One of the standout aspects of  MIGRATION  is its animation, which is undeniably impressive. Illumination Entertainment consistently delivers in this department, with vibrant colors, intricate details, and smooth character movements that draw viewers into the story. The sound design further enhances the experience, immersing audiences in the world of the film and showcasing the studio's technical prowess. At its core,  MIGRATION  is a tale of self-discovery and stepping outside one's comfort zone. The protagonist, Mack, leads a family of ducks on a cross-country journey filled with colorful characters and valuable life lessons. Mike White's screenplay strikes a balance between entertaining young audie

The Film THE HOLDOVERS is a masterfully crafted film set in a New England boarding school during the 1970s, directed by Alexander Payne. The story centers around Barton, an all-boys institution where students spend their Christmas holidays under the supervision of the grumpy and pompous Paul Hunham, portrayed brilliantly by Paul Giamatti. As an ancient civilizations instructor, Hunham prides himself on failing even the most influential politicians' offspring. Giamatti's performance is noteworthy for the depth he brings to the character, moving beyond the traditional stereotype to create a multifaceted and unpredictable figure. The movie initially seems like a typical prep-school yarn, where the students go against their sharp-tongued instructor. However, the story takes an unexpected turn when one of the students presents an opportunity that takes away four of the boys, leaving Angus Tully (played by Dominic Sessa) behind due to unapproachable parents. Under Payne's skillfu

THE DEVIL'S PARTNER THE DEVIL'S PARTNER is a lesser-known classic horror film that combines folk horror, supernatural elements, and moral ambiguity. The movie, directed by Charles R. Rondeau, was released in 1961 and takes place in a seemingly idyllic rural community in the Pacific Northwest where dark forces lurk beneath the surface. The movie introduces us to an enigmatic and reclusive figure, Old Scratch, portrayed by Ed Nelson, who lives in a small town nestled in the dense forests of Washington State. The film establishes an eerie atmosphere quickly, with the dense woods and misty landscapes becoming characters in their own right. The cinematography by John M. Nickolaus Jr. captures the ominous beauty of the surroundings, enhancing the film's overall sense of foreboding. THE DEVIL'S PARTNER explores the consequences of striking deals with malevolent forces. The protagonist, an aging farmer named Mark Lemmon played by Edgar Buchanan, finds himself in a Faustian pact