Written by John Edward Betancourt Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’. It really is quite amazing how the Planet of the Apes motion picture franchise has evolved throughout the years, regarding what it stands for. For the original saga, the one led by Charlton Heston, stood for shock value really. Courtesy of the big reveal in the first film where we learned that Earth was Taylor’s final destination, for something had gone awry and allowed for apes rule the day, and subsequent features continued to lean into that shock value. Courtesy of nuclear surprises and time travel and a world where man and ape fought to see who the dominant species would be, and that did indeed lead to big moments and iconography that has allowed for this franchise to remain popular and of course, spawn a new series of films. The kind, that went in a vastly different direction. For the new features have dug deep into social commentary and reflect our world through the lens of the ape, and that’s led to some fascinating stories that have explored the nature of our hubris, our hate, and our xenophobia. Along with some fascinating observations regarding our sometimes-irresponsible relationship with technology. Granted, there were hints of this in the original saga, but they never went to the lengths that the new films have gone and it would seem that this franchise won’t be letting up anytime soon in creating smarter Apes films that deeply reflect the world we live in and the problems we face. And for proof… look no further than the latest chapter in the franchise, which is in theaters now, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. For this particular story, one set long after the events of War for the Planet of the Apes, showcases a planet where apes now rule the lands and where they are all settling into societies and ideologies that are vastly different than the world that humanity lost, and that Caesar worked to build. For some, like Noa’s clan, work toward peace and harmony with one another and with the planet they’ve been gifted. While there are others… led by the mysterious Proximus Caesar… who are eager to exert the power of ape over man. Who still roams the countryside and still causes trouble as need be, and as fate would have it, soon all three worlds will collide in an epic manner. Wherein Noa will have to choose to help, the apes that are eager to conquer the world, his own people or the mysterious humans that seem to have their own agenda. Which at first glance, appears to be a plot that is grounded more in a grand and sweeping epic than a story about our world and our problems. But closer inspection reveals that the world of the apes’ centuries from now, is quite close to our own. Since Proximus Caesar is a leader that reflects the old guard in our world, those folks who want a specific type of world that only benefits their own ideals and beliefs, and Noa is those of us in the middle. Who want a better way but feel outnumbered and out voiced by that all-annoying guard and the human faction here… continues to represent our hubris, and our inability to understand that change is a constant and that we must let go to move forward and all of that subtext brings forth a magnificently complex film. One that leaves us with so much to ponder upon about our world and how hard it will be to find peace in this time. That makes this, perhaps the smartest film in the franchise to date, since it has never pondered upon precarious times in this manner, but it handles its observations in a powerful manner… and still finds a way to entertain. Because the epic nature of that plot, does give rise to an epic journey for Noa. One that explores a world that has forgotten humanity, and any conflict or action, which is mostly found in the third act of the feature, is equally as epic and sweeping. Courtesy of a unique setting and a unique twist involving Caesar’s intentions that leads to a finale for the ages. One that is breathtaking and poignant, and seemingly sets the stage for future films and perhaps… a reboot of the core stories that brought us to this particular point. But that aside, make no mistake about, this is simply an incredible and cerebral motion picture. One that does the franchise proud and takes it in a fascinating new direction. For this story expands this franchise and this universe like never before and gives us new characters to latch onto. Because everyone here, both ape and human, harbors elements we can relate to and care for, and that comes courtesy of more incredible performances. The kind that takes your breath away and sell every single emotion and the gravity of the moment. All of which brings forth a magnificent motion picture, one that has something for everyone and features a refreshing new story that informs us that this franchise still has a lot of life left in it, and it still has a lot to say. And it will be incredible to see what lessons and big moments lie ahead as we continue our journey through the Planet of the Apes.
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Written by John Edward Betancourt If there is one particular film that we’ve sung incredible praise over, often, these past few months, it would have to be Laura Adkin’s, Re: Uniting, and rightfully so. For this powerhouse drama is timely, powerful, and filled to the brim with joy and tears. Courtesy of a story that feels real and that the audience can deeply connect with, and well… the only issue that has accompanied our praise, is the sheer fact that there hasn’t been an easy path for you, dear reader/viewer, to see this amazing feature. Especially if you live in the United States. But that’s not from a lack of trying, for Laura and her team are eager to share this story with the world, and distribution deals take time and those are being locked down. To the point where at last, Untied States audiences can see this motion picture in New York City and Los Angeles, and soon. For earlier today it was announced that Re: Uniting will start screening in those cities on 5/31/24 at LOOK Dine-In Cinemas and well, since you’ve been so patient and so eager to see this film, here are all the details on this wonderful news, complete with a list of locations where you can enjoy this poignant motion picture. ‘Flat Head Films announced today that writer/director Laura Adkin’s feature film debut Re: Uniting will have its U.S. theatrical premiere starting Friday, May 31st, 2024. Re: Uniting will screen for audiences across the U.S. at LOOK Dine-In Cinemas in New York, Los Angeles, several locations in California, Arizona, Texas and more. Adkin and select cast will be in LA and New York for special event Q&A’s after the screenings in LA (on May 31st) and New York (June 1st). Filmed on Bowen Island in B.C., Re: Uniting stars Jesse L Martin (Law & Order, The Irrational, RENT), Michelle Harrison (The Flash), Roger Cross (War For the Planet of the Apes), David James Lewis (Child’s Play), Carmen Moore (Nancy Drew) and Bronwen Smith (Firefly Lane) as six best friends from college who reconnect for their 25 year reunion. When Rachel, played by Michelle Harrison, receives life-changing news, she secretly grapples with her mortality while playing host to her friends who have grown up and gone their separate ways since college. Carrie, a mother of 3, Natalie, a workaholic neurosurgeon, former football star turned sportscaster Collin, and playboy man-child Danny join Rachel and her husband at their picturesque home on the beautiful and secluded Bowen Island. As soon as they are all together it’s like no time has passed; they laugh, drink and dance the night away. Rachel’s nostalgia is echoed by the group as they realize how much time has gone by, and how much they have all changed. As secrets are revealed, they are forced to change the way they look at their futures. The film, which had its world premiere at the Austin Film Festival, has already been winning Canadian audiences over, with an expanded run and was held over in theatres in major markets including Vancouver and Toronto. Laura Adkin, born and raised in Vancouver, BC, began her career in the film and television industry almost 20 years ago. She started as an actor then moved behind the camera as a producer, writer and director. As a filmmaker, Laura has produced numerous films that have played in film festivals around the world. Laura was handpicked for a female directors initiative through Disney and was selected for the Women In the Directors Chair Career Advancement Module. Re: Uniting is written and directed by Laura Adkin, produced by Krista Rand (Grand Unified Theory) and Stirling Bancroft (Sniper: Assassin’s End) serves as director of photography and Josh Epstein (Adventures in Public School, Eadweard) is Executive Producer. Re: Uniting is the first feature film in the world to be colored with the Barco HDR Lightsteering projector; a state-of-the-art technology sweeping the cinematic world from international tech company Barco. Gravitas Ventures, an Anthem Sports & Entertainment Company, has acquired U.S. rights to Re: Uniting and will release the film on digital and cable on demand on June 4, 2024. In Canada, Re: Uniting is being distributed by Vortex Media in Canada and is currently available to rent or buy on most streaming platforms in Canada. The film was made possible with Telefilm "partner's in production", William F. White International and UBCP/ACTRA.’ SCREENING LOCATIONS: LOOK Dine-In Cinemas, New York Locations starting May 31st, 2024: Dobbs Ferry, NY / New York, NY New York, NY - with Q&A on June 1st, 2024 Q&A with Re: Uniting writer/director Laura Adkin, cast: David James Lewis, Bronwen Smith and producer Krista Rand LOOK Dine-In Cinemas, California Locations starting May 31st, 2024: Glendale, CA / Monrovia, CA / Redlands, CA / Downey, CA Glendale, CA - with Q&A on May 31st, 2024 Q&A hosted by Todd Berger with Re: Uniting writer/director Laura Adkin, cast: Bronwen Smith, Michelle Harrison & Roger Cross LOOK Dine-In Cinemas, Texas locations starting May 31st, 2024: Arlington, TX / Colleyville, TX / Dallas, TX LOOK Dine-In Cinemas other US locations starting May 31st, 2024: Brookhaven, GA / Chandler, AZ / Reston, VA / Tampa, FL www.lookcinemas.com Written by John Edward Betancourt
There is a grand question being asked in the entertainment industry right now. Specifically, is it possible to add new franchises to an already crowded market where the big ones are already established? Because we live in a world where Star Trek, Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe rule the day, and where new chapters to old stories continue to come to life, and that does leave us unsure… if anything new can come to bear in this marketplace. But that isn’t stopping creatives from trying to answer that question in the affirmative. After all, Seth MacFarlane brought to life, The Orville, his own imagining of a universe not that far off from what Star Trek resembles and even writer/director Zack Snyder, a man who is no stranger to big franchises… has made his own push to start something new.
For last year saw the debut of Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire. A grandiose story that took us to a different galaxy, far, far, away. For Mister Snyder was eager to bring a competitor to the Star Wars Universe to Netflix and well, it was met with mixed reviews. Wherein some cited concerns about elements that felt familiar, while others praised its structure and story, all of which… left that grand question mark standing next to that grand question. Because we simply were not sure if this new addition could in fact, bring a new franchise to bear and offer us something grand and sweeping and outright generational. So, to further explore that possibility, it only made sense to bring forth a sequel and flesh out this universe further. Enter Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver. The first big time sequel in this new franchise and well, when all is said and done, this particular new chapter, which is available to stream on Netflix starting today… does indeed offer up an answer to that question. In that, yes, new, and epic franchises are a real possibility, provided of course they offer something for the audience to latch onto. Which is why this particular film is of note, for it picks up shortly after Part One, wherein Kora and her friends make their way to Veldt after what they believe was a grand victory over evil. Only to learn that the derided Noble survived his battle with Kora and is preparing to make his way to Veldt to enact revenge and well, that twist is where this movie begins to showcase how new franchises can be born in this era.
Because the wait for combat, for another showdown between Kora and her Noble, gives rise to downtime. Downtime that allows for character development and exploration to take place and that… brings about quite the fascinating first half of this film. For that helps to create something that is more than just a ‘knock-off’ or a grand attempt. It builds a real franchise, it offers depth and gravity, and moments that tie us to the characters. Which are huge elements that go into creating something special, something lasting and one does walk away from this sequence with a better understanding of who is part of this fight, and why they are so dedicated to it, and it does leave one rooting for these heroes to accomplish their goal.
However, make no mistake about it, this is still a Zack Snyder film, and Zack remains a master of action and adventure and loves good spectacle moments. Which are also staples of big franchises and those are present here too. Because eventually, we do get the fight we desire, and it is as big and bombastic as one might expect. But also, emotional, and powerful, providing the audience with a payoff and well… all of those elements make for a true sci-fi epic. One that genuinely informs us that there is room for big franchises right now, and that they can tap into elements that make us love it so. Courtesy of that gentler, character driven touch that really does harbor connective tissue with the audience and that really does make this sequel feel different and as though it is building toward something even bigger than what we experience here. Simply because, now we are getting an idea of what Zack and his team want to accomplish with this, and in many ways… we are seeing the birth of this universe in a manner similar to Star Wars. Because that’s a franchise that found its way through sequels and bold storytelling decisions and we get that here and that does make for an enjoyable ride. One that will wow you with its visuals, move you with its bigger moments and all around just offer a wonderful viewing experience and those are the true elements that go into making a grand franchise for the ages and hopefully Netflix gives Mister Snyder and his team what they need to finish the story. Because if the progress made here continues and Zack can stick the landing… that will give rise to a beloved franchise that creatives and audiences will explore for generations. Watch ‘Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
It really is quite unfortunate how society views mental health, mental health issues and their respective treatments in this modern age. Because we live in a time where people are indeed ready to talk about the tough and lingering problems and concerns, that prior generations made efforts to bury and abandon out of the belief, they would fix themselves. But alas, despite being in an era this open-minded, and where there is new information coming out about mental health, and despite new treatments being developed to help those who wish to maintain or heal their mental health… we are still deathly afraid to point out that the mind isn’t always at its best, and that sometimes we need help in healing our ailing brains and in balancing its chemicals.
In fact, this topic is so taboo, that even the creative world, a place that is a pioneer in discussing the topics that no one else wants to, tends to either shy away from exploring the truths about mental health in the twenty-first century, or offers up something that is glossy and inspirational regarding such matters. But thankfully it would seem, we are reaching a paradigm shift when it comes to the silence surrounding such important matters, and we have a bold new motion picture from an equally as bold creative individual to thank for that. For writer/director Dillon Tucker has opted to craft a story that shatters taboo and offers a comprehensive and powerful look at mental health and mental health struggles in Pure O. A feat that this story accomplishes by introducing us to a man named Cooper who seems to be living quite the life. After all, he works a great job as a rehab counselor, giving him a chance to do good in the world. Not to mention, he has a loving fiancé named Emily; he has dreams to hit it big in Hollywood. So, life just seems to be coming up roses for Cooper. That is, save for the fact that Cooper is deeply scared. Because he’s having wild, violent thoughts, about imparting harm upon his beloved and in talking to a therapist about these thoughts, he is diagnosed with a form of OCD known as Pure Obsessional. Which will be difficult to treat and overcome. Because of the stigmas that exist and because of challenges that further shatter his idyllic life, prompting him to ponder deeply upon what he will really need… to get his mental health in order.
Which at first glance, appears to be more in line with the uplifting stuff we normally see from stories in this vein. Since there’s a setup there for Cooper to go on a brave and inspiring journey. But that is by design, to make us comfortable so that Dillon, can plunge us into the heart of one powerful story. One that deeply examines the nature of OCD and Pure Obsessional and how they are treated. Which gives rise to some stunning moments for certain. The kind that showcases how mental health issues are a real battle and require real work, and in the case of Pure Obsessional, can feature some scary and uncomfortable moments for those suffering through it. Since this film holds nothing back regarding the ideation that comes from this affliction, and truly… this gives us a shocking… but welcome perspective. Because this is the kind of stuff that starts a conversation and truly helps people to understand the realities of such matters.
But while that makes it seem as though this film is deeply mired in heavy moments, make no mistake about it… this is a movie designed to educate, spark talks, and walk us through… how we heal. Because that’s what anyone in Cooper’s shoes wants, to feel better, to be better and to walk away stronger, and that aspect of the film, leads to some uplifting moments. Wherein it becomes clear that to conquer these moments, we must be willing to put in the work, and dedicate ourselves to healing. Not to mention, this film reminds us that we need a support network, of people who do care, who are willing to stand by us in those dark hours where it seems hopeless. Which is perhaps the most poignant aspect of this film. For the mantra surrounding mental health issues is that the fight against them must be done alone, and through sheer will. But it takes a village to help folks through that, to help anyone through dark times really, and to help them cope with the changes that come about when the dust settles. For lives change when this kind of healing takes place, and well… all of these messages and explorations make for one revolutionary motion picture. One that truly showcases this taboo topic in an open and frank (and long overdue) manner, and this motion picture deserves a standing ovation for finally being the story to ‘go there’, and for also providing us… with a great story period. One that offers up some great performances since Daniel Dorr (Cooper) and Hope Lauren (Emily) truly sell the realism present here and move us often with their ability to translate the emotions one would feel in the midst of healing. Plus, this film has plenty to teach folks who might not be able to relate to the subject matter at hand, since it also explores the ups and downs of life and how we are never ready for the tough stuff it sends our way. All of which makes… for a powerful and perfect feature that will stay with you long after its ended. Courtesy of its intelligence, and its bravery. Watch ‘Pure O’
Written by Juanita ‘Obi-Juan’ Bonner During awards season, every artisan in the industry has their eyes on the grand prize. A nod, and hopeful win, from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences – better known as the Oscars – is a dream come true for most. So much so, that virtually everyone worth their salt (*WINK*) seeks to be recognized by the Academy, many saying it’s an honor just to be nominated. Though we all know they secretly wish to win above all else. *DUH!!* Made up of everyone from directors and actors to executive producers and other industry giants, each category is voted upon by their respective members. That’s to say, directors vote for directors and so on, while a ranked choice voting system is used to decide Best Picture. Unfortunately, the Academy is fickle when it comes to paying attention to films that deviate too far from the norm. Saltburn (Warner Bros. Pictures; 2023) is no exception by far, but I believe the shock value turned folks away causing them to overlook the true beauty and intricacies this film has to offer. So now that the 2024 awards season has ended, I’d like to take a deeper look at this masterclass in filmmaking and discuss why…why was Saltburn snubbed at the Oscars?? Especially when Emerald Fennell (Writer/Director) won the 2021 award for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay for her first feature-length outing for Promising Young Woman (Focus Features/Universal Pictures; 2020). *BAD ASS* I mean… she clearly has the chops… right? Before we begin, it’s apt to point out that this year’s Oscar season was quite stacked. So much so that predictions aside from Oppenheimer (Universal Pictures; 2023) were a little all over the place. Excellent films like American Fiction (Amazon MGM Studios; 2023), Killers of the Flower Moon (Paramount Pictures/Apple Studios; 2023), Poor Things (Starlight Pictures; 2023), Barbie (Warner Bros. Pictures; 2023) and more took second stage to Oppenheimer, and for good reason. However, I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that with all its popularity, I really wish some light could’ve been shed on the aftermath of the Trinity Test and how it changed, and continues to change lives, in such a negative way in New Mexico. Ah… but I digress!! For anyone interested, check out First We Bombed New Mexico (Lois Lipman) right here. Now… let’s move on! Per the norm, several films were nominated in multiple categories. Thus, many have stated that the competition was just too stiff to include Saltburn. Thus, I argue that’s exactly why it should’ve been considered. Because it belonged there!! So… let’s take a look at four categories for thought – Original Screenplay, Cinematography, Direction and Acting. Original Screenplay |
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