Two lads fluent in Irish language take a stand for their underappreciated mother tongue when they transform into underground rappers in the energetic and entertaining film “Kneecap.” The title also belongs to the actual West Belfast group whose backstory – enhanced with intense political tension and hilarious wit by writer-director Rich Peppiatt – provides an exhilarating, high-spirited experience.
Audiences and critics frequently express a desire for films with novelty, yet let’s not underestimate the enjoyment found in comforting familiarity. A well-crafted film that borrows elements, boasts appealing actors, and exhibits a touch of flair is an accomplishment in itself. It’s a testament to the power of talented individuals who can make you momentarily forget your doubts and just enjoy the journey. In essence, a brilliant mediocre movie is like successfully executing a heist – it might be minor, but it’s done better than the botched robbery in “The Instigators,” a rough action-comedy that almost makes us forgive its tired aspects. The characters and filmmakers struggle to escape unscathed, much like the protagonists of the movie.
Writing about personal experiences can be both empowering and limiting. The movie “Sebastian” by director Mikko Mäkelä explores this dilemma as a young author tries to solve it. He constructs his life specifically for use in his imagined stories, but this act forces him to confront the blurred lines between truth and fiction, between his real self and the character he’s crafted.
As a fan, I can’t help but ponder over the creation of this live-action adaptation of “Harold and the Purple Crayon,” a timeless children’s book by Crockett Johnson, first published in 1955. It leaves me wondering who exactly this film is intended for. Given that the book is suitable for ages 3 and up, yet the movie, directed by David Guion and Michael Handelman, boasts an almost entirely adult cast, it seems geared towards a more mature audience. However, the storyline, which revolves around a young boy’s imagination, still appears too simplistic and childlike to captivate viewers of any age. So, I find myself asking, what was the logic behind greenlighting this movie as a financially viable project?
It’s all coming full circle for Carrie Underwood.
Growing up, I was captivated by the Hardy Boys, amassing a collection of those striking blue-spined books that filled my shelves. You see, I’ve always had an affinity for teenage detectives. From Nancy Drew and “Scooby-Doo,” to Shelby Woo and Hayley Mills in “The Moon-Spinners,” these characters have held a special place in my heart.
Punkie Johnson has bid “Saturday Night Live” farewell after four years in its cast.
What captivates me about Elizabeth Taylor is primarily her performances in two films: “The Taming of the Shrew” directed by Zeffirelli and Shakespeare, and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” directed by Nichols and Albee, where she starred alongside Richard Burton. I’ve also seen her in some of the original “Father of the Bride” films with Spencer Tracy, as I used to watch most comedies on TV. However, the adult dramas she was in, such as “Butterfield 8,” “Raintree County,” and “A Place in the Sun,” were not my preferred genre at the time, and I’m not sure if I’ve ever watched her early roles in “Lassie Come Home” and “National Velvet.”
For the first time since 2009, Willie Nelson (age 91) and Bob Dylan (age 83), two music legends still with us, embarked on a long journey together. On Wednesday evening at the Hollywood Bowl, they captivated the audience individually, contributing to this summer’s Outlaw Music Festival tour.
Veronica Fraley is scheduled to compete at the Paris Olympics for the first time Friday.