Merry Christmas to all our readers!
Movie Review: Netflix's #BrightMovie
STARRING Will Smith, Joel Edgerton, Noomi Rapace
DIRECTED BY David Ayer
RUN TIME 1hr 57min
Official Channels: Facebook | Twitter
#BrightMovie
Set in an alternate present-day where humans, orcs, elves and fairies have been co-existing since the beginning of time. Bright is genre-bending action movie that follows two cops from very different backgrounds. Ward (Will Smith) and Jakoby (Joel Edgerton), embark on a route patrol night and encounter a darkness that will ultimately alter the future and their world as they know it.
During the 2017 San Diego Comic-Con, I attended Conan and witnessed the world premier trailer of David Ayers’ sci-fi cop thriller “Bright,” starring Will Smith and Joel Edgerton. It was incredible.
The cast was brought out and was very excited of what they created. The trailer wowed me, Conan O’Brien and the audience. We all wondered the same things. How can humans and fantasy creatures live together on Earth? How long as this coexistence been around? Is it everywhere on the planet? Did coexistence between mythical beings and humans replace our current society’s struggle with social injustice, prejudice and harassment? We wanted more answers. We needed more answers. Unfortunately, after watching the entire Netflix original movie, I still have these questions. And I think I have a lot more now.
While the trailer, soundtrack and scenery were impressive, the opportunity to introduce a new universe and explore the emotions of sub-culture dynamics was missed, opting for an overload of characters and story lines.
“Bright” is based in an alternate timeline, where we coexist with many mythical and magical beings. I’ll get to the “many” part in a few paragraphs. The movie focuses on two LAPD officers, Daryl Ward (Smith) and orc Nick Jacoby (Edgerton), and their wild adventure while patrolling the streets of Los Angeles. While dealing with the harassment Jacoby continues to receive regarding him being an orc AND cop, they answer a call and become aware of a magic wand that is in existence. Before you know it, it’s a race between them and others who are willing to do whatever it takes to get the wand in their possession so they can receive their heart’s desire as a “bright.”
There were parts of this movie that I really enjoyed. The scenery is very true to the East LA culture and environment. Ayers and cinematographer Roman Vasyanov do a great job of capturing the feel of Los Angeles. You see it in the traffic. You see it in the morning fog. You see it in the graffiti and continual gang activity. It makes the overall location easy to understand and relatable.
The music was also outstanding. With a budget of $90 dollars, they spent some cash on the tunes. The audience was signing along, even doing some bouncing to some songs by Ty Dolla $ign, Future, Meek Mill, Snoop Dogg, Steve Aoki and A$AP Rocky. Once again, it helps connect you to where you need to be to get the surroundings. When there are dramatic scenes, the orchestra build up is phenomenal, with swells and silence to accentuate the moment.
“Bright” played it safe in a few areas which I really needed more: the acting and scripting. According to my 1999 CD collection, we’re still in the “Willenium,” but I didn’t know we were going to still be getting the same Will Smith since then, too. He plays the family man, with a hint of know-it-all, soft heart and one-liner zingers. I’m fine with that. But I’ve seen this same Will Smith in every movie. I get that if it’s not broke, you don’t have to fix it, but it’s getting quick close to Adam Sandler’s typical character and that’s not a good place. The audience seemed to enjoy his quips, but I wanted a little more with his character. The other characters in the movie seemed to play it safe, too. Edgarton does a good job playing a buddy cop, but it’s so stereotypical, I lost interest pretty quickly with his “Goody Two Shoes” persona. Even after some major events happen in the movie, he seems to increase this persona, which seems off, compared to the direction the movie goes. When it comes to the rest of the cast, everyone did a decent job with their lines. There were just SO many people in this movie, there wasn’t an opportunity to move from that safe spot so I can’t say they had the opportunity to shine or fail. They didn’t have enough screen time, which is a GREAT transition into what I didn’t like about the film.
There was SO much going on that I couldn’t invest any of my emotion or care. If I had to categorize this movie, I’d say it’s a mix of “Bad Boys” and “World of Warcraft,” which on paper sounds very unique and original. To me, though, that thought filled up about 30 minutes of time, with writer Max Landis having to dream up EVERY scenario and creature possible to fill up the other 87 minutes. …and when I mean “EVERY scenario and creature possible,” trust me. Landis goes IN.
It’s a mythical and magical world, but within the first few minutes, we’re introduced to orcs, fairies, dwarves, elves (the traditional ones and the more millennial Kardashian-friendly ones), centaurs, gangsters and humans. Minutes, not hours. I was still trying to figure out Ward’s family dynamic, but I had to quickly switch to learning about a Magic Task Force and a religion that prophesied the magic wand’s return and how someone can save the world. Then, it appears that this religion has an opposing one that somehow uses the same wand to destroy humanity. It’s a lot going on very quickly when I’m still trying to figure out this new land we’re in.
We are then quickly introduced to Tikka, an elf has a magic wand, but then there are cops on the scene, so we can’t invest time in her. Then, we immediately are introduced to Leilah, who is the owner of this wand, who happens to be evil and wants to bring back the Dark Lord, but sent another elf to get it for her. Wait, what? Where did this come from? How often does this happen with the Dark Lord? Is Leilah the only evil elf? Why aren’t there other wands on tap? Why isn’t the Magic Task Force on the case? How did Tikka get here?
Then, we get gangsters, a sheriff, orcs, fairies and a LOT of dues ex machina. Ward and Jacoby are thrown in SO many scenarios that it gets tiring seeing them put into yet another situation with a cast that keeps growing by the second. Without spoiling too much, the outcomes of these scenarios became so predictable that the audience was groaning and laughing. We’re introduced to alibis that save characters, greedy decisions that end lives of some (or was it wand control?), a few more religions and prophecies and something that appears to be the Tree of Life from “Avatar.” It gets really convoluted.
Here in lies the problem with “Bright:” there are so many things going on that there’s no way to really care about anything going on. Landis had such a powerful premise of focusing on the dynamics of sub-culture. We start to see a focus on the harassment of Jacoby being an orc and a cop. We start thinking, “Is he going to break? What is his intention? Why does society hate orcs so much? What’s Jacoby’s life like?” Instead of focusing on some emotional foundation to introduce the world to a new universe, we’re taken on a roller coaster that was way too fast with no real destination. A story revolving around the harassment Jacoby received and the way other orcs treated him could have served a really good premise and still held the power of the film. If this was broken into a series, it would’ve worked great. As a movie, it did not work well with so many elements. If we’re being introduced to a future franchise, give it a slow burn. That works just as fine and allows the audience to want to have more.
Overall, the film had some good shots, some safe zones, but did not deliver when it comes to the story. It did way too much, way too quickly. A sequel was approved earlier in the month, so I hope that we won’t be bitten by the Will2K bug a second time and that there is a little steadier pacing next time.
Overall rating: C-
Holiday Giveaway from Once Upon a Twilight!
Happy Holiday from OUaT!!!
What better way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year?
Well with a giveaway of books (of course).
What you see in the picture, is what you get (10 books). Keeping it simple and easy.
Just enter below in the rafflecopter and then in the new year, will announce the winner.
The Dark Assassin | Calling My Name | The Lost Frost Girl | The Afterlife of Holly Chase | The 12 Dares of Christa | Fragments of the Lost | The Becoming of Noah Shaw | Among the Red Stars | The Stars Beneath Our Feet | The Breathless
We hope you all have a blessed holiday and happy New Year surrounded by your friends and family.
Movie Review: 20th Century Fox's The #GreatestShowman
THE GREATEST SHOWMAN
RUN TIME: 105 MINUTES
RATING: PG
Director: Michael Gracey
Story by: Jenny Bicks
Screenplay by: Jenny Bicks and Bill Condon
Producers: Laurence Mark, Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya
RATING: PG
Director: Michael Gracey
Story by: Jenny Bicks
Screenplay by: Jenny Bicks and Bill Condon
Producers: Laurence Mark, Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya
“The Greatest Showman” is a bold and original musical that celebrates the birth of show business and the sense of wonder we feel when dreams come to life. Inspired by the ambition and imagination of P.T. Barnum, “The Greatest Showman” tells the story of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a mesmerizing spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. “The Greatest Showman” is directed by exciting new filmmaker, Michael Gracey, with songs by Academy Award winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (“La La Land”) and starring Academy Award nominee Hugh Jackman. Jackman is joined by Academy Award nominee Michelle Williams, Zendaya, Zac Efron and Rebecca Ferguson.
THE GREATEST SHOWMAN OPENS IN THEATERS NATIONWIDE DECEMBER 20, 2017
It was only a few months ago, that the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus shuttered “The Greatest Show on Earth.” It was a bittersweet event that was simulcast on YouTube, for the world to see. Just when audiences were beginning to feel circus withdrawal pains, this year’s musical spectacular, The Greatest Showman, comes along with all of the memories and magic of real “under the big top” moments.
The Greatest Showman is inspired by the life of P.T. Barnum, founder of the what would become the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Focus on the “inspired by” part, for greatest enjoyment. This isn’t a true biography. The film takes creative liberty with the details of Barnum’s life, and the resulting film is better for that.
Showman is this year’s musical extravaganza with a hopeful message, like that of last year’s hit movie musical, La La Land. While the musical lyrics for La La Land and Showman are written by the same team, Showman’s music has an entirely authentic circus feel. From the opening musical number through to the closing, the contemporary songs are upbeat and catchy. They convey the hopeful and defiant spirit of the characters. The music is easily Showman’s biggest scene-stealer.
That isn’t to say that the cast is overshadowed by the music. It would take a lot to overshadow Hugh Jackman (as P.T. Barnum) who is perfect in his role and the all-star supporting cast. Zac Efron (as Phillip Carlyle), Zendaya (as Anne Wheeler) and Keala Settle (as Lettie) provide very strong musical and acting performances. The best scene in the film is easily the Barnum / Carlyle negotiation dance number but Lettie’s voice carries many of other musical moments. Settle has a Broadway voice that inspires an audience to tears, in a good way. The only exception to the cast was the performance of Michelle Williams (as Charity Barnum). Williams seemed somewhat out of her league. The weakest of the musical numbers was Williams’ solo near the end of the movie. It weakened the ending of the film some to have Williams try a solo just then.
With the exception of Williams’ solo, there is still a ton of good in Showman. It is quite a sight to behold. In carrying through with the circus feel, the audience is almost overwhelmed with dramatic and beautiful visuals. Every scene looks like a circus. The colors are rich. The set design is very detailed and impeccable. The costuming was gorgeous. It was especially impressive that none of the bold coloring or busy sets were over the top. Somehow, it all worked perfectly. It looked wonderfully mesmerizing on the big screen.
The best aspect of Showman is it’s hopeful message. Through its contemporary soundtrack and its spectacular dance numbers, Showman conveys the timeless themes of “following your dreams,” “persevering over adversity” and “being kind.” Better still, because of its PG rating, Showman is a film for the whole family. No four-letter words, no risqué concepts.
Go see Showman. Then, go buy the soundtrack. Get yourself a top hat and join a circus. Fine, that last thing is probably a bit much, but that’s how much fun the movie was. It is perfect for the holiday season and perfect for the whole family. See The Greatest Showman in theaters, playing everywhere.
#Seattle Win Passes to INSIDIOUS: THE LAST KEY @ Regal Thornton Placel 1/3/18
INSIDIOUS: THE LAST KEY
In theaters everywhere on Friday, January 5th, 2018
Cast: Lin Shaye, Angus Sampson, Leigh Whannell, Josh Stewart, Caitlin Gerard, Spencer Locke, Kirke Acevedo, Bruce Davison, Tessa Ferrer and Javier Botet
Directed by: Adam Robitel
Screenplay by: Leigh Whannell
Official Channels: Web | Facebook
The creative minds behind the hit Insidious trilogy return for Insidious: The Last Key. In the supernatural thriller, which welcomes back franchise standout Lin Shaye as Dr. Elise Rainier, the brilliant parapsychologist faces her most fearsome and personal haunting yet: in her own family home. The film is written by co-creator Leigh Whannell (Saw), who wrote the trilogy and directed Chapter 3; produced by Insidious regulars Jason Blum (The Purge series, Get Out), Oren Peli (Paranormal Activity) and co-creator James Wan (The Conjuring, Furious 7); and directed by series newcomer Adam Robitel (The Taking of Deborah Logan).
INSIDIOUS: THE LAST KEY
Release date: January 5th, 2018
Screening date: January 3rd, 7 PM (6:15 check-in), Regal Thornton Place
Click poster to enter to win
#Seattle Win Passes to I, Tonya @ Regal Thornton Place 1/4/18
I, TONYA
In theaters in Seattle on Friday, January 5th, 2018
Cast: Margot Robbie, Allison Janney, Sebastian Stan, Julianne Nicholson, Caitlin Carver and Bobby Cannavale
Directed by: Craig Gillespie
Screenplay by: Steven Rogers
Official Channels: Web | Facebook
Based on the unbelievable but true events, I, TONYA is a darkly comedic tale of American figure skater, Tonya Harding, and one of the most sensational scandals in sports history. Though Harding was the first American woman to complete a triple axel in competition, her legacy was forever defined by her association with an infamous, ill-conceived, and even more poorly executed attack on fellow Olympic competitor Nancy Kerrigan. Featuring an iconic turn by Margot Robbie as the fiery Harding, a mustachioed Sebastian Stan as her impetuous ex-husband Jeff Gillooly, a tour-de-force performance from Allison Janney as her acid-tongued mother, LaVona Golden, and an original screenplay by Steven Rogers, Craig Gillespie’s I, TONYA is an absurd, irreverent, and piercing portrayal of Harding’s life and career in all of its unchecked––and checkered––glory.
I, TONYA
Release date: January 5th, 2018
Screening date: January 4th, 7 PM (6:15 check-in), Regal Thornton Place
Click poster to enter to win
Celebrate The Holidays with Shel Silverstein and RUNNY BABBIT RETURNS!
HarperCollins Children’s Books to Publish
RUNNY BABBIT RETURNS, a Never-Before-Published Collection of Spoonerism Poems
by Shel Silverstein!
New York, NY (February 8, 2017) – Today HarperCollins Children’s Books announced the publication of Runny Babbit Returns, a never-before-published book of spoonerism poems by the legendary Shel Silverstein and follow-up to the 2005 publication, Runny Babbit. Antonia Markiet, Senior Executive Editor at HarperCollins, acquired U.S. and Canada rights, and publication is scheduled for September 19, 2017.
Runny Babbit Returns takes us back to the green woods of Runny Babbit with 41 never-before-published poems and drawings. Compiled from completed but unpublished works in the Silverstein archive, this next installment encompasses beloved themes such as friendship, kindness, family, and, of course, food. The first Runny Babbit is a charming and witty collection of spoonerisms written and illustrated by Silverstein before his death and his first book published posthumously, in 2005. Filled with creative words and phrases with letters or syllables swapped (bunny rabbit becomes Runny Babbit), this poetry book follows the warm, insightful, and laugh-out-loud adventures of an endearing cast of characters. Maurice Sendak said of Runny Babbit, “I wish I had done this book!”
Runny Babbit has sold over 770,000 copies and spent 39 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. This companion book,Runny Babbit Returns, features extraordinarily imaginative poems that embody Silverstein’s iconic humor and style, with tongue-twisting wordplay and uproarious characters. New and old readers alike won’t want to miss their chance to revisit their favorite Runny and meet even more of his woodland friends.
“We’re delighted to continue the legacy of the extraordinary Shel Silverstein, a household name for over fifty years,” said Suzanne Murphy, President and Publisher of HarperCollins Children’s Books. “This never-before-published collection of poems and drawings will be cherished by readers of all ages and is a wonderful companion book to follow Runny Babbit.”
Generations have grown up with the works of Shel Silverstein, known not only as a poet and illustrator but also for his work as a cartoonist, playwright, performer, recording artist, and Grammy Award–winning songwriter. Silverstein’s children’s books have sold more than 39 million copies in the U.S. alone and have been translated into 46 foreign languages. He has encouraged children to dream and dare to imagine the impossible with his exceptional poetry and unforgettable characters.
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ABOUT SHEL SILVERSTEIN
Shel Silverstein is the author of Lafcadio, the Lion Who Shot Back; A Giraffe and a Half; The Giving Tree; Who Wants a Cheap Rhinoceros?; Don’t Bump the Glump!;Where the Sidewalk Ends; The Missing Piece; A Light in the Attic; The Missing Piece Meets the Big O; Falling Up; Runny Babbit; and Every Thing On It. He was a cartoonist, playwright, poet, performer, recording artist, and Grammy-winning/Oscar-nominated songwriter. Shel Silverstein’s children’s books have sold more than 39 million copies in the U.S. alone and have been translated into 46 foreign languages. You can learn more about Shel and his books by visiting www.shelsilverstein.com.
ABOUT HARPERCOLLINS CHILDREN’S BOOKS
HarperCollins Children’s Books is one of the leading publishers of children’s and teen books. Respected worldwide for its tradition of publishing quality, award-winning books for young readers, HarperCollins is home to many timeless treasures and bestsellers such as Charlotte’s Web, Goodnight Moon, Where the Sidewalk Ends, Where the Wild Things Are, The Graveyard Book and series including The Chronicles of Narnia, Ramona, Warriors, Pete the Cat, Fancy Nancy, Divergent, and The Selection. Consistently at the forefront of digital innovation, HarperCollins Children’s Books delights readers through engaging storytelling in all formats, including e-books and apps. HarperCollins Children’s Books is a division of HarperCollins Publishers, which is the second largest consumer book publisher in the world, has operations in 18 countries, and is a subsidiary of News Corp (NASDAQ: NWS, NWSA; ASX: NWS, NWSLV). You can visit HarperCollins Children’s Books at www.harpercollinschildrens.com and www.epicreads.com and HarperCollins Publishers at corporate.HC.com.
Bigscreen and Paramount Home Media Distribution announce debut of TOP GUN in virtual reality!
Bigscreen and Paramount Home Media Distribution announce debut of Top Gun in virtual reality
Social virtual reality platform Bigscreen delivers a new home viewing experience
Bigscreen and Paramount Home Media Distribution announced today that Top Gun will be screened in 3D in Bigscreen's virtual reality software. Beginning at 6:00 p.m. EST on December 29th fans can enter Bigscreen's virtual theater lobby and have the option of meeting friends before entering the cinemas to watch a screening of Top Gun in 3D. The film will be shown at regular intervals for a period of 24 hours.
Bigscreen utilizes virtual reality to make users feel like they are in a physical movie theater, watching movies on a giant screen with immersive sound and lighting. With voice chat and avatars, Bigscreen also offers a social experience, allowing users in different locations to feel like they are sitting next to their friends watching movies or TV shows, browsing the web, and more.
"This is an innovative way to bring the immersive and social movie theater experience into the comfort of the home," said Darshan Shankar, CEO and founder of Bigscreen.
"Bigscreen's virtual reality platform offers a new way for fans to experience films in their homes," said Bob Buchi, President Worldwide Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures. "We're excited to be a part of this experiment using cutting-edge technology to give fans a new entertainment option."
This event is only available to people in the United States, requires a VR headset, and a Windows 10 PC. Supported VR headsets include the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, all SteamVR-compatible headsets, and all Windows Mixed Reality headsets. Users can view Top Gun for free by downloading Bigscreen's free application from the Oculus Store, Steam Store, or the Microsoft Store.
For full showtime information, please visit bigscreenvr.com/topgun
Bigscreen is developing a content lineup to regularly screen more movies, TV shows, and video content in its virtual movie theater each week in 2018.
About Bigscreen, Inc.
Bigscreen is a leading social virtual reality software platform that enables its users to hangout in virtual worlds, watch movies with friends in a virtual movie theater, or collaborate with coworkers in virtual offices. Power users spend 20-30 hours per week using Bigscreen, making it one of the most widely used "killer apps" in the virtual reality industry. Bigscreen was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.
About Paramount Home Media Distribution
Paramount Home Media Distribution (PHMD) is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a major global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment. PPC is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), home to premier global media brands that create compelling television programs, motion pictures, short-form content, apps, games, consumer products, social media experiences and other entertainment content for audiences in more than 180 countries. The PHMD division oversees PPC's home entertainment and transactional digital distribution activities worldwide. The division is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment content on behalf of Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Television, Paramount Players, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and CBS and applicable licensing and servicing of certain DreamWorks Animation titles. PHMD additionally manages global licensing of studio content and transactional distribution across worldwide digital distribution platforms including online, mobile and portable devices and emerging technologies.
Peter Jackson's New Saga #MortalEngines Dec 2018
Peter Jackson presents an epic new saga.
In theaters December 2018, the adaptation is from the award-winning book series by Philip Reeve, published in 2001 by Scholastic.
MORTAL ENGINES – In Theaters December 14, 2018
Thousands of years after civilization was destroyed by a cataclysmic event, humankind has adapted and a new way of living has evolved. Gigantic moving cities now roam the Earth, ruthlessly preying upon smaller traction towns. Tom Natsworthy (Robert Sheehan)—who hails from a Lower Tier of the great traction city of London—finds himself fighting for his own survival after he encounters the dangerous fugitive Hester Shaw (Hera Hilmar). Two opposites, whose paths should never have crossed, forge an unlikely alliance that is destined to change the course of the future.
Mortal Engines is the startling, new epic adventure directed by Oscar®-winning visual-effects artist Christian Rivers (King Kong). Joining Rivers are The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogies three-time Academy Award®-winning filmmakers Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, who have penned the screenplay. The Universal and MRC adaptation is from the award-winning book series by Philip Reeve, published in 2001 by Scholastic.
On board as producers are Zane Weiner (The Hobbit trilogy), Amanda Walker (The Hobbit trilogy) and Deborah Forte (Goosebumps), as well as Walsh and Jackson. Ken Kamins (The Hobbit trilogy) joins Boyens as executive producer. Universal will distribute the film worldwide.
Genre: 3D Epic Adventure
Cast: Hugo Weaving, Hera Hilmar, Robert Sheehan, Jihae, Ronan Raftery, Leila George, Patrick Malahide and Stephen Lang
Directed by: Christian Rivers
Writers: Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Peter Jackson
Based on the Book by: Philip Reeve
Produced by: Zane Weiner, Amanda Walker, Deborah Forte, Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson
Executive Producers: Ken Kamins, Philippa Boyens
#Denver Grab Passes to #MollysGame @ UA Colorado Center Stadium 12/21
Starring: Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin Costner, Michael Cera, Jeremy Strong, Chris O'Dowd, Bill Camp
Directed By: Aaron Sorkin
Written By: Aaron Sorkin
Produced By: Mark Gordon, Amy Pascal, Matt Jackson
MOLLY’S GAME is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, an Olympic-class skier who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game for a decade before being arrested in the middle of the night by 17 FBI agents wielding automatic weapons. Her players included Hollywood royalty, sports stars, business titans and finally, unbeknownst to her, the Russian mob. Her only ally was her criminal defense lawyer Charlie Jaffey, who learned that there was much more to Molly than the tabloids led us to believe.
You and a guest are invited to an advance screening of MOLLY’S GAME! Click the poster below for your chance to download an admit-two pass to see the film on Thursday, December 21 in Denver! Seating in the theatre is first-come, first-serve and is not guaranteed. Please arrive early! MOLLY’S GAME opens in Denver Christmas Day.
#SaltLakeCity Grab Passes to #MollysGame @ Broadway Centre Cinemas 12/21
Starring: Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin Costner, Michael Cera, Jeremy Strong, Chris O'Dowd, Bill Camp
Directed By: Aaron Sorkin
Written By: Aaron Sorkin
Produced By: Mark Gordon, Amy Pascal, Matt Jackson
MOLLY’S GAME is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, an Olympic-class skier who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game for a decade before being arrested in the middle of the night by 17 FBI agents wielding automatic weapons. Her players included Hollywood royalty, sports stars, business titans and finally, unbeknownst to her, the Russian mob. Her only ally was her criminal defense lawyer Charlie Jaffey, who learned that there was much more to Molly than the tabloids led us to believe.
You and a guest are invited to an advance screening of MOLLY’S GAME! Click the poster below for your chance to download an admit-two pass to see the film on Thursday, December 21 in Salt Lake City! Seating in the theatre is first-come, first-serve and is not guaranteed. Please arrive early! MOLLY’S GAME opens in Salt Lake City Christmas Day.
#Seattle Grab Passes to #MollysGame @ AMC Pacific Place 12/21
Starring: Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin Costner, Michael Cera, Jeremy Strong, Chris O'Dowd, Bill Camp
Directed By: Aaron Sorkin
Written By: Aaron Sorkin
Produced By: Mark Gordon, Amy Pascal, Matt Jackson
MOLLY’S GAME is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, an Olympic-class skier who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game for a decade before being arrested in the middle of the night by 17 FBI agents wielding automatic weapons. Her players included Hollywood royalty, sports stars, business titans and finally, unbeknownst to her, the Russian mob. Her only ally was her criminal defense lawyer Charlie Jaffey, who learned that there was much more to Molly than the tabloids led us to believe.
Click the movie poster to download your passes:
Win the mind-blowing masterpiece, #mothermovie
"Mesmerizing"
- Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
"Spectacular"
- Guy Lodge, Vanity Fair
ACADEMY AWARD®-WINNERS* JENNIFER LAWRENCE AND JAVIER BARDEM STAR IN ONE OF THE MOST THOUGHT-PROVOKING FILMS OF THE YEAR
mother!
Director Darren Aronofsky's Visually Arresting Psychological Thriller Available on
Digital HD, 4K Ultra HD™ and Blu-ray™ Combo Packs
Digital HD, 4K Ultra HD™ and Blu-ray™ Combo Packs
Acclaimed director Darren Aronofsky (Black Swan) delivers "a mind-blowing masterpiece" (Scott Mantz, "Access Hollywood") with the extraordinarily original mother!, arriving on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD December 19, 2017. The film arrives on Digital HD December 5, 2017.
Described as "darkly exhilarating" (Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times) and "Aronofsky's most daring film yet" (Ben Croll, Indiewire), mother! stunned critics and audiences around the world. Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem star in the visually arresting psychological thriller that will leave your heart pounding and your mind blown. The film also stars Oscar® nominees Ed Harris** and Michelle Pfeiffer***, along with Domhnall Gleeson, Brian Gleeson and Jovan Adepo.
The mother! 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Combo Packs include over 35 minutes of in-depth bonus content. Join director Darren Aronofsky and cast as they discuss the production of the movie and take us through its spectacular finale. Plus, check out the incredible makeup effects that made mother! a visual tour de force.
mother! also boasts a Dolby Atmos® soundtrack remixed specifically for the home theater environment to place and move audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. In addition, the 4K Ultra HD disc features Dolby Vision™ high dynamic range (HDR), growing Paramount's library of titles featuring both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Dolby Vision transforms the TV experience in the home by delivering greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors. Together with the captivating sound of Dolby Atmos, consumers will experience both cutting-edge imaging and state-of-the-art sound technology for a fully immersive entertainment experience‡.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
Amazon: http://paramnt.us/mother.blu-
iTunes: http://paramnt.us/GetMotherNow
About Paramount Home Media Distribution
Paramount Home Media Distribution (PHMD) is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment. PPC is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), home to premier media brands that create television programs, motion pictures, consumer products, and digital content for audiences in 180 countries and territories. The PHMD division oversees PPC's home entertainment and transactional digital distribution activities worldwide. The division is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment content on behalf of Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and CBS and applicable licensing and servicing of certain DreamWorks Animation titles. PHMD additionally manages global licensing of studio content and transactional distribution across worldwide digital distribution platforms including online, mobile and portable devices and emerging technologies.
Thanks to Paramount Home Media, we have 2 copies of the DVD along with the book! Enter below to win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Watch #Downsizing & Enter to win Alexander Payne book!
Downsizing
Director: Alexander Payne
Writer: Alexander Payne, Jim Taylor
Starring: Matt Damon, Christoph Waltz, Hong Chau
Social Handles: Twitter | IMDb
#Downsizing
A social satire in which a guy realizes he would have a better life if he were to shrink himself.
In celebration of Downsizing release, we are giving away Alexander Payne book! Enter below:
Fall in love with #HomeAgainMovie Enter to Win!
REESE WITHERSPOON SHINES IN THE BEST ROMANTIC COMEDY IN YEARS
HOME AGAIN
“HILARIOUS AND FULL OF HEART”
– PETE HAMMOND, DEADLINE
“AN INSTANT CLASSIC”
– SHAWN EDWARDS, FOX TV
NOW AVAILABLE ON DIGITAL AND ON BLU-RAY™ AND DVD
FROM UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Academy Award® winner Reese Witherspoon (“Big Little Lies”) stars in Home Again, a modern romantic comedy about love, family, and new beginnings. Home Again arrives on Digital on November 21, 2017, and on Blu-rayTM, DVD, and On Demand on December 12, 2017, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Smart and oozing with charm, the film takes viewers on a heart-warming journey of laughter, emotion, and self-discovery as Witherspoon navigates life as a newly single mother of two. The perfect holiday gift for romantic comedy fans of all ages, Home Again on Blu-rayTM, DVD and Digital features a bonus commentary with the director and the producer of the film, taking viewers even deeper into the heartfelt story.
Produced by Nancy Meyers, who brought us beloved films including Something’s Gotta Give, The Holiday, and The Intern, Home Again is filled with a talented ensemble cast including Michael Sheen (Midnight in Paris), Lake Bell (What Happens In Vegas), Nat Wolff (The Fault in Our Stars), Pico Alexander (A Most Violent Year), Jon Rudnitsky (“Saturday Night Live”) and Candice Bergen (Miss Congeniality).
Alice (Witherspoon), a recently separated mother of two, finds her life upended when three young, charismatic filmmakers move into her guest house. Alice’s unlikely new family and a
budding romance comes to a crashing halt when her ex-husband shows up, suitcase in hand. A story of love, friendship, and the families we create, Home Again is a modern romantic comedy with one very big life lesson: starting over is not for beginners!
BONUS FEATURE ON BLU-RAY™, DVD AND DIGITAL
Feature Commentary with writer/director Hallie Meyers-Shyer and producer Nancy Meyers
Home Again will be available on Blu-ray™ combo pack which includes Blu-ray™, DVD and Digital.
Blu-ray™ unleashes the power of your HDTV and is the best way to watch movies at home, featuring 6X the picture resolution of DVD, exclusive extras and theater-quality surround sound.
Digital lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.
The Movies Anywhere Digital App simplifies and enhances the digital movie collection and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through participating digital retailers. Consumers can also redeem digital copy codes found in eligible Blu-rayTM and DVD disc packages from participating studios and stream or download them through Movies Anywhere. Movies Anywhere is available only in the United States.
Website: http://uni.pictures/HomeAgain
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeagainmovie/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/homeagain_movie/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeagainmovie/
Hashtag: #HomeAgainMovie
About Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE – www.uphe.com) is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios. Universal Studios is a part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.
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Houston's Alley Theatre's A Christmas Carol Recap - #ChristmasCarolHOU
The Alley’s 30th production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL – A GHOST STORY OF CHRISTMAS, re-opens the Hubbard Theatre. The show, a re-telling of Charles Dickens’ classic story, follows Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey with the three ghostly spirits that visit him on Christmas Eve. A Christmas Carol instills a powerful message about redemption and the spirit of the holiday season.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL – A GHOST STORY OF CHRISTMAS
Info: Houston’s seasonal favorite—A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story of Christmas returns this year with a re-telling of Charles Dickens’ classic story, which follows Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey with the three ghostly spirits that visit him on Christmas Eve. A Christmas Carol instills a powerful message about redemption and the spirit of the holiday season.
Date: November 24 through December 30
By: Charles Dickens
Adapted and Originally Directed by: Michael Wilson
Directed by: James Black
Press Materials and Photos: https://www.alleytheatre.org/
Suitable for general audiences. (Age 6+)
Hubbard Theatre
Approx Run Time: 92 minutes with a 15 minute intermission.
Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” has been showing in the Alley Theatre for the past 30 years and it did not disappoint. The cast was amazing and the technical theatre was impressive. This is the first show performed at the Alley Theatre since Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, Texas in late August. The Alley Theatre was devastated. Nonetheless, the cast and crew worked tirelessly to make sure that “A Christmas Carol” would be ready in time for the Christmas season and it shows.
I have never seen “A Christmas Carol” live. I’ve only ever watched it on television. However, seeing the show on stage is beyond words and to be able to share the experience with my seven year old son for the first time will be a memory I will never forget.
Every single actor and actress on stage was amazing. The cast had amazing chemistry that shined throughout the production. My favorite parts of the show were the technical theatre. As a former thespian, I appreciate all of the moving parts that going into a production. I have a great appreciation for shows that find creative ways of transitioning and expressing emotion without speech.
All in all, “A Christmas Carol” was an incredible performance that shows the resilience that is the Alley Theatre. I hope to make this show an annual Christmas tradition with my son in the future.
Movie Review: Blue Sky Studios' #Ferdinand
FERDINAND
Animation, in 3D
Release: December 15, 2017
Directed by: Carlos Saldanha
Cast: John Cena, Kate McKinnon, Gina Rodriguez, Daveed Diggs, Gabriel Iglesias, Bobby Cannavale, David Tennant, Anthony Anderson, Flula Borg, Sally Phillips, Boris Kodjoe, Jerrod Carmichael, Raúl Esparza, Karla Martínez, Miguel Ángel Silvestre.
FERDINAND Official Channels:
SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
#Ferdinand
SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
#Ferdinand
FERDINAND tells the story of a giant bull with a big heart. After being mistaken for a dangerous beast, he is captured and torn from his home. Determined to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team on the ultimate adventure. Set in Spain, Ferdinand proves you can't judge a bull by its cover.
From Blue Sky Studios and Carlos Saldanha, the director of "Rio" and inspired by the beloved book "The Story of Ferdinand" by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson, "Ferdinand" is a heartwarming animated comedy adventure with an all-star cast that includes John Cena, Kate McKinnon, Gina Rodriguez, Anthony Anderson and many more.
If you read Ferdinand the Bull as a kid, you will recall that it’s a relatively short book. When I heard that it was being turned into a feature-length film, I wondered where there would be enough material for that. And would the true-blue message of the story in the book be lost in the conversion. I was happily surprised by most of this week’s new animated movie, Ferdinand.
First, the positive message of the great big bull with the heart of gold has translated well onto the big screen. Thankfully, Ferdinand is still the same floral-inclined bull that people remember from their childhoods. Ferdinand seems funny and ever altruistic. He puts others’ needs in front of his own and he loves his family. The positive messages of the film seemed effortless and genuine. Nothing preachy about Ferdinand.
The animals are also cute. Along with Ferdinand and his bull friends, three hedgehogs and a goat round-out the farm (or is it a ranch?). John Cena’s (as Ferdinand) voice fits well onto the giant Ferdinand, but the best voice work was, by far, that of Kate McKinnon (as Lupe). The movie was about the bull, but the best and funniest scenes were Lupe’s scenes. McKinnon, it seems, can do no wrong in comedy.
Now, I was a little disappointed with the quality of the animation. It seemed flat to me. In 2017, Blue Sky (the studio) could have done more. The colors seemed muted and the movement felt two-dimensional. Nowadays, animation seems to want to convince an audience that it is more than drawings on a sheet, but Ferdinand missed the “wow factor.” The animation looked average.
Also, at a one hour and forty-eight minute run time, Ferdinand is too long! What should be a ten-minute long animated short is morphed into a feature length film by adding a lot of filler. There are all kinds of animal hijinks and a musical montage to lengthen the run time of the movie. (At one point, the bulls are even in a meat packing plant.) The filler lacks the same heart and message of the original story. And the bit with some horses was really obnoxious.
All in all, Ferdinand is an okay film. Parents should be able to tolerate the movie and kids will like the cute animals. It isn't remarkable, but the positive message makes it a good holiday film for the whole family. Ferdinand is playing everywhere today.
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