FRIDAY FAMILY FILM NIGHT

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing MARIE ANTOINETTE (2006) which is currently available on Paramount+, Epix/MGM+ and the Roku Channel. As we close out Women's History Month, we look at writer/director, Sofia Coppola's film, which was inspired by the book, MARIE ANTOINETTE: THE JOURNEY by Antonia Fraser.  In this retelling, the story takes artistic liberties and focuses on Marie Antoinette (Kirsten Dunst) from her journey to meet her groom to be, Louis XVI (Jason Schwartzman) to the point where she, her husband and children are removed from the palace by those involved in the French Revolution.  Those 2 events are glossed over for the most part and the bulk of the film focuses on Marie and her POV as a young bride and then Queen.  The costumes in the film scored the Best Costume award from the Oscars but a weak story and bland acting do little for the overall storytelling experience.  The film is rated PG-13 and clocks in at 2 h 3 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. For anyone with a fixation on royals and history, we highly recommend the Noble Blood podcast which you can find here:  https://www.grimandmild.com/nobleblood Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing MEN (2022), currently available on Showtime and to buy/rent on Prime. Written and directed by Alex Garland, the story follows Harper (Jessie Buckley), a widow who is off for a short holiday in the countryside to regroup and recover from her husband's death/suicide.  She meets Geoffrey (Rory Kinnear) who is her landlord and then goes off to explore. The film is a blend of horror, atmosphere and some social commentary on the relations between men and women as told through Harper's point of view.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 40 m and is rated R. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review.Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing 9 to 5 (1980) which is currently available on HBO Max or to buy/rent on Prime. With a screenplay by Patricia Resnick and Colin Higgins, from a story by Patricia Resnick, the film is directed by Colin Higgins. In this story, three secretaries: Violet (Lily Tomlin), Doralee (Dolly Parton) and Judy (Jane Fonda) have had enough of their lying, lazy, egotistical, hypocritical and horribly sexit boss, Mr. Hart (Dabney Coleman) and somehow find the tables turned to their advantage to teach Mr. Hart a lesson.  A strong script, deliciously humorous performances by the entire cast make this a MUST WATCH during women's history month.  The film is rated PG and clocks in at 1 h 49 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review.This episode of the podcast is dedicated to all the secretaries, AAs, EAs, office assistants and office support staff I've met along the journey.  A special shout out to my current tribe - Joann D, Rashema, Che, Veli, Valencia, Yvette, Monica, Melissa, Naz, Anna and Jelahn - I am nothing without you! Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing DOUBLE INDEMNITY (1944), currently available to buy/rent on Prime. The film is based on the novel from James M. Cain, screenplay by Billy Wilder and Raymond Chandler and is directed by Billy Wilder. The story follows Walter Neff (Fred MacMurray), an L.A. insurance salesman who meets Phyllis Dietrichson (Barbara Stanwyck) during a house call to see about an existing client renewing a policy. Walter soon finds himself swept up in a plan to murder, collect the insurance and skip town with the femme fatale but things don't go as planned. This film is a MUST WATCH. The film has a run time of 1 h and 47 m and is not rated. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. This episode of the podcast is dedicated to the lovely Angie! Happy Women's History Month and Happy early Birthday! Check out the opening theme sequence for COURAGEOUS CAT AND MINUTE MOUSE here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpHNSCfUZxk Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH (2022) which is still in theaters but also currently available on Peacock or to buy/rent on Prime. With a screenplay by Paul Fisher and Tommy Swerdlow (additional screenplay material from Etan Cohen), from a story by Tommy Swerdlow and Tom Wheeler; the film is directed by Joel Crawford with a co-director credit to Januel Mercado. In this story, Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas) finds he's squandered 8 of his 9 lives and is off on a journey to find the mystical last wish. Along the way he finds he's not the only one searching for the Last Wish. The film is rated PG and clocks in at 1 h 42 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. NOTE: THIS REVIEW WAS RECORDED PRIOR TO THE 2023 OSCARS TELECAST Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing THE WOMAN KING (2022), currently still in theaters but also streaming on Netflix and to buy/rent on other platforms.  The film is loosely based on true events and comes from a story by Dana Stevens and Maria Bello, from Dana Stevens' screenplay and is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood.  The story revolves around the Agojie women warriors of Dahomey in the early 1800s in Western Africa.  In particular we come to know General Nanisca (Viola Davis) the fearless leader as she embarks on training and molding the new soldiers rising in the ranks to become part of the next generation of warriors tasked with protecting the King (John Boyega) and the people against enemy nations and European slave traders.  The film has a run time of 2 h and 15 m and is rated PG-13.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review.   This episode of the podcast is dedicated to Marsha!  Happy Women's History Month!    If you want to know more about Nanisca and a history of the fierce Dahomey women warrior check out:   https://collider.com/the-woman-king-true-story-explained/   https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/real-warriors-woman-king-dahomey-agojie-amazons-180980750/   Also check out BioGraphics on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Biographics Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON (2021) which is currently available on Showtime.  With a screenplay by Jenny Slate and Dean Fleischer Camp and directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the film follows the story of Dean (Dean Fleischer Camp) who happens upon Marcel (Jenny Slate) and his Grandma Connie (Isabella Rossellini) in the AirBnB he's staying at after his relationship falls apart.  In a bid to distract himself from his own heartache, Dean decides to do a small documentary about Marcel and gets swept up in Marcel's sweetness and simplicity.  Marcel explains how some years ago his community of family and neighbors disappeared after the man and woman who were previously living in the house broke up.  After posting the videos on YouTube, Marcel garners national attention and his quest to find his family seems almost attainable.  The film is rated PG and clocks in at 1 h 3 m.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing TOP GUN: MAVERICK (2022), currently playing on MGM+, Paramount+ and still in theaters.  The long awaited sequel to 1986's TOP GUN, this film is written by Ehren Kruger, Eric Warren Singer and Christopher McQuarrie; from a story by Peter Craig and Justin Marks and based on characters created by Jim Cash and Jack Epps Jr.  Directed by Joseph Kosinski, the film follows Maverick (Tom Cruise) 30 years after the first film's story wrapped and he is still causing mayhem and pushing the envelope in the Navy as a pilot.  He's brought back in to teach a new crop of fighter pilots, including Goose's now adult son, Rooster (Miles Teller).  Maverick is tasked with the mission of getting these Top Gun graduates ready for a mission that could potentially have a high collateral cost.  The film has a run time of 2 h and 1 m and is rated PG-13.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing EDGE OR TOMORROW (2014) which is currently available on HBO Max.  With a screenplay by Christopher McQuarrie, Jez Butterworth and John-Henry Butterworth and directed by Doug Liman, the film follows Cage (Tom Cruise) who gets roped into combat and through a chain of events, is reliving the day over and over each time he dies.  A solid script, magnificent performances and great FX make this a MUST WATCH.  The film is rated PG-13 and clocks in at 1 h 53 m.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing AMBULANCE (2022), currently playing on Prime Video.  Based on the film, "Ambulancen" written by Laurits Munch-Petersen and Lars Andreas Pedersen, this version is directed by Michael Bay, from a script by Chris Fedak.  The film follows Will (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), who goes to his brother, Danny (Jake Gyllenhaal) for a loan because his wife is in need of surgery that insurance won't pay for.  Instead Danny coerces Will into coming with him and his gang to rob a bank.  Things go south quickly and most of the crew is killed but Will and Danny escape by commandeering an ambulance with a wounded cop.  What follows is quintessential Michael Bay, with fast, intense action sequences that don't let up.  However a mediocre script and an egregious run time make this a complete snooze fest - skip it.  The film has a run time of 2 h and 16 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing STRANGE WORLD (2022) which is currently available on Disney+.  With a screenplay by Qui Nguyen and directed by Don Hall (co-directed by Qui Nguyen) the film tells the story of the Clades - Jaeger (Dennis Quaid), Searcher (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Ethan (Jaboukie Young-White).  Following his father, Jaeger, on an expedition, Searcher returns home after terrible weather conditions stall the team but Jaeger presses on because the explorer in him must see the adventure through.  Twenty five years later, Searcher has carved out a great legacy for himself and is sort of guiding his son, Ethan, on a similar path.  However this isn't what Ethan wants.  When the mystery plant that gave Searcher his rise to fame starts to die, Searcher is tasked into joining an expedition to see if they can figure out whats wrong and how to save the plant which gives their world electricity and in the end, Searcher rediscovers his Dad and gains a better understanding of his son.  Great voice performances by the entire cast, addressing interesting themes and a solid script make this a MUST WATCH.  The film is rated PG and clocks in at 1 h 42 m.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. This episode of the podcast is dedicated to our buddy, Zach, and Uncle Jay - congrats on the new jobs! XO Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing BREAKING (2022), currently playing on Showtime and to buy/rent on Prime.  Inspired by the story, "THEY DIDN'T HAVE TO KILL HIM' : THE DEATH OF LANCE CORPORAL BRIAN EASLEY by Aaron Gell, the film is directed by Abi Damaris Corbin with a script from Abi Damaris Corbin and Kwame Kwei-Armah.  John Boyega gives a magnificent, heartbreaking performance as Brian, a Marine vet who's come back to face constant adversity from the VA.  The film follows Brian on a fateful day in July, 2017 when he walks into a Wells Fargo bank and holds it up with the threat of using the C4 bomb he claims is in his backpack.  The film briefly introduces us to Estel {Nicole Beharie), Rosa (Selenis Leyva), Lisa (Connie Britton) and Eli (Michael K. Williams in his last screen performance) but the main focus here is the last agonizing hours of a man who'd had enough and snapped.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 43 m and is rated PG-13.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. You can find the Aaron Gell article here:  https://taskandpurpose.com/news/death-lance-corporal-brian-easley/ Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ANDRÉ (2017) which is currently available on Hulu/Plex/Prime and Tubi.  Following the life of André Leon Tally, who passed in 2022, the film is a scattered recollection of the man and parts of his life as a fashion journalist, stylist, creative director, and editor-at-large of Vogue magazine.  The film is directed by Kate Novack and includes anecdotes from some of the fashion industries greats and briefly touches on ALT's humble beginnings in North Carolina.  The film is rated PG-13 and clocks in at 1 h 33 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing ROAD HOUSE (1989), currently playing on AMC+, Netflix and to buy/rent on other platforms.  From a story by R. Lance Hill, a screenplay by Hilary Henkin and directed by Rowdy Herrington, the film follows Dalton (Patrick Swayze), a "cooler" who is contracted to bring order to the raucous and unruly Double Deuce, a club/bar in Jasper, Missouri that is plagued by terrible patrons and nightly violence.  This is a movie that doesn't take itself seriously and is an absolute snapshot of the 80s.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 54 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK (2012) which is currently available on HBO Max and Starz but also to buy/rent on other platforms.  From the novel of the same name by Matthew Quick, the film is written and directed by David O. Russell.  The story follows Pat Jr (Bradley Cooper) who is recovering from an incident and a brief stint at a psychiatric hospital.  He goes home to his parents (Jacki Weaver and Robert DeNiro) and is trying to get back to a good place and reconcile with his ex-wife Nikki (Brea Bee).  He's suddenly thrown into the path of Tiffany Maxwell (Jennifer Lawrence) and things are never the same.  The film is rated R and clocks in at 2 h 2 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing THE INVITATION (2022), currently playing on Netflix.  Written by Blair Butler and directed by Jessica M. Thompson, the film follows Evie (Nathalie Emmanuel), a young woman who's recently lost her mother to cancer and who is grieving and feeling lost and rudderless without family.  By some coincidence, she takes a test to find out more about her ancestry and is contacted by someone who says he is her cousin (Hugh Skinner).  They meet and he convinces her to travel with him to England for a relative's wedding.  There she meets the mysterious and alluring De Ville (Thomas Doherty) who she feels a magnetic pull towards but are things as they seem or is Evie embroiled in an extremely detrimental situation?  The film has a run time of 1 h and 45 m and is rated PG-13.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing M3GAN (202) which is currently available to buy/rent and still in the theaters.  With a screenplay by Akela Cooper from a story by Akela Cooper and James Wan, the film is directed by Gerard Johnstone.  The story follows Cady (Violet McGraw) who is left orphaned after both her parents are killed in a car accident.  After her recovery, she goes to live with her Aunt Gemma (Allison Williams) who faces a huge adjustment as she is unused to having young people in her environment.  Deeply impacted by her niece's sadness, Gemma decides to perfect a project she'd been working on, Megan (Amie Donald, and voiced by Jenna Davis).  Megan is an AI life sized doll who serves as a friend and companion.  In a short time, Cady and Megan have formed a deep bond that is sweet but also has glimpses of something a little more sinister under it all.  The film is rated PG-13 and clocks in at 1 h 42 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. This episode of the podcast is dedicated to one of my oldest and dearest friends - the lovely and amazing Suzy on her birthday - all the love in the world to you my buddy XOXO Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing NIGHTCRAWLER (2014), currently playing on HBO Max.  Written and directed by Dan Gilroy,  the film follows Louis Bloom (an absolutely sublime Jake Gyllenhaal), an enterprising young man who starts the story selling scrap metal but then finds his way into the life of the nightcrawlers.  From here, his drive, ambition and laser focus quickly propel him to success and total dominion in the field.  The film explores many themes, among them journalistic ethics and the question of what is going too far.  A solid script, great cinematography and fantastic performances but especially Jake Gyllenhaal's outstanding turn as the loathsome Bloom raise this to art and make this a MUST WATCH - don't miss it.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 57 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing VIOLENT NIGHT (2022) which is currently available on Peacock and to buy/rent.  With a screenplay by Pat Casey and Josh Miller, the film is directed by Tommy Wirkola.  The story follows Santa (an absolutely exquisite David Harbour) as he gets ready for his big night of the year.  While making deliveries he's swept up in the perils of a wealthy family being held at gunpoint by mercenaries who are after their hidden cash stash of 300 million dollars.  What follows is absolute mayhem and extreme violence and we're convinced of a new Christmas classic.  The film is rated R and clocks in at 1 h 52 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing THE MENU (2022), currently playing on HBO Max but available on Prime and Hulu with a premium subscription.  Written by Seth Reiss and Will Tracy,  the film is directed by Mark Mylod and follows 12 diners to an exclusive dining experience at the Hawthorne, where Chef Slowik (Ralph Fiennes) and his team curate an exquisite dinner experience for those with deep pockets.  Margot (Anya Taylor-Joy) has been swapped in as Tyler's (Nicholas Hoult) last minute plus one, much to Chef's dismay as her appearance has disrupted the proceedings of the planned evening.  Mayhem ensues and Margot is caught in the middle of a very dangerous game.  A strong, sharp script and a remarkable performance from Fiennes make this a film watching treat - don't miss it.  The film has a run time of 1 h and  47 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing TOKYO GODFATHERS (2003) which is currently available on YouTube/Tubi/PlutoTV.  The screenplay is by Keiko Nobumoto, from a story and directed by the late Satoshi Kon.  The story follows three homeless people, with complex and layered backgrounds and personas but have found common ground of sorts and formed their own family.  They come upon an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve and embark on a quest to reunite the baby and her parents.  What follows is pure magic in storytelling and should not be missed - this is definitely a MUST WATCH.  The film is rated PG-13 and clocks in at 1 h 32 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing I DON'T FEEL AT HOME IN THIS WORLD ANYMORE (2017), currently playing on Netflix.  Written and directed by Macon Blair, the film follows Ruth (Melanie Lynskey) who is finally taking a stand and not allowing anyone to walk all over her.  After her home is broken into and things are taken, including her grandmother's silverware, she gets no sympathy from the police.  Ruth, along with her odd neighbor, Tony (Elijah Wood) then go on an adventure that changes them both.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 33 m and is rated TV-MA.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing THE NIGHT IS SHORT, WALK ON GIRL (2017) which is currently streaming on HBO Max.  The film is directed by Masaaki Yuasa, with a screenplay by Makoto Ueda and based on the novel by Tomihiko Morimi.  The story follows the Black-haired Girl, as she over the course of an evening, has an adventurous night meeting new people, indulging in libations and has given herself over to fate and allows herself to be lead where the day takes her.  Adult themes make this film more targeted to mature audiences but its a wild, enjoyable, trippy ride.  The film is rated PG-13 and clocks in at 1 h 32 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing SMILE (2022), currently playing on Epix and Paramount+.  Written and directed by Parker Finn, the film follows Rose (Sosie Bacon) who witnesses a traumatic incident by a patient and then finds herself in a race against time to try and figure out what's happening to her.  A clever ad campaign helped this film generate some serious revenue but its a weak story without much horror.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 55 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing BLACK ADAM (2022) which is currently streaming on HBO Max, but also still in theaters.  The film is directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and has screenplay credits to Adam Sztykiel, Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, from characters by Bill Parker and C.C. Beck.  This is the first and last story to focus on the Black Adam/Teth Adam character who lived 6000 years ago but then went into a tomb and was awakened in the present day.  Dwayne Johnson is the titular character and is great as the anti hero in this superhero/action movie.  The film is rated PG-13 and clocks in at 2 h 5 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER (2022), currently playing in theaters.  Directed by Ryan Coogler, from a script by Ryan Coogler and Joe Robert Cole, the film follows the story of the Black Panther and how the death of King T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman) impacts his Mother (Angela Bassett) and Sister (Leticia Wright) and how a possible threat from the sea threatens all of Wakanda.  The film has a run time of 2 h and 41 m and is rated PG-13.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing GLASS ONION: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY (2022) which is currently streaming on Netflix.  The film is written and directed by Rian Johnson and is the second part to the Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) story .  The story follows Benoit as he's recruited to solve a case and winds up in Greece at the estate of Miles Bron (Edward Norton), who's invited his small circle of friends for a weekend.  Kate Hudson, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr., Dave Bautista and Janelle Monáe round out the cast.  The film is rated PG-13 and clocks in at 2 h 19 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing A VERY HAROLD & KUMAR 3D CHRISTMAS (2011), currently available on  HBO Max and AMC+.  Directed by Todd Strauss-Schulson, from a script by Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg, the film follows Harold (John Cho) and Kumar (Kal Penn), six years after their Guantanamo Bay adventure, who've gone their separate ways with Harold focusing on his marriage, career and being an adult as Kumar is living a very carefree yet unfulfilling life without his BFF.  A mishap that ends in Harold's father-in-law's prized Christmas tree being destroyed, the 2 old friends join forces to save the day and reconnect.  The film has a run time of 2 h and 7 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983) which is currently streaming on HBO Max but you can probably find it on 24-hour rotation on TBS & TNT.  The film is directed by Bob Clark from a screenplay by Leigh Brown and based on the book by Jean Shepherd, "In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash".  The story follows the trials and tribulations of young Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) as he tries to navigate the treacherous landscape of school, avoid bullies, solve the Orphan Annie mystery and be on the nice list so Santa can bring him a Red Ryder Range 200 Shot BB gun, which everyone assumes will only cause him to shoot his eye out.  The film is narrated by Jean Shepherd and is a Norman Rockwell painting in film form and highly entertaining holiday treat for young and old.  The film is rated PG and clocks in at 1 h 33 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing BULLET TRAIN (2022), currently available on Netflix.  Directed by David Leitch, from a script by Zak Olkewicz, the film is based on Kôtarô Isaka's book.  The film follows Ladybug (Brad Pitt), an assassin on a mission who finds himself crossing paths with other assassins on a  bullet train in Japan.  The cast includes Brian Tyree Henry (Lemon), Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Tangerine), Joey King (Prince), Hiroyuki Sanada (The Elder), Andrew Koji (Kimura), Michael Shannon (White Death), Sandra Bullock (Maria), Bad Bunny (Wolf), Zazie Beetz (The Hornet)  as some of the very colorful characters that inhabit this world.  The film has a run time of 2 h and 7 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. CORRECTION: we wanted to highlight James Gunn's THE SUICIDE SQUAD (2021) Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing A CHRISTMAS MYSTERY (2022) which is currently streaming on HBO Max.  The film is directed by Alex Ranarivelo from a screenplay by John Ducey.  The story follows young Violet (Violet McGraw) as she tries to solve the mystery of who framed her friend's Dad for a theft he did not commit.  The film is rated PG and clocks in at 1 h 27 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT (2022), currently available on Netflix.  Directed by Edward Berger, from a script by Edward Berger, Lesley Paterson and Ian Stokell, the film is based on Erich Maria Remarque's novel.  The film follows Paul (Felix Kammerer) a young man sold on the propaganda peddled by his country elders and he enlists and goes to war - in this film WWI.  One by one his 3 friends quickly become casualties of war and Paul is left to pick up the pieces and carry on as the war rages merciless around him.  Fantastic performances, a compelling story and top notch production values make this a MUST WATCH.  The film has a run time of 2 h and 28 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing Guillermo del Toro's PINOCCHIO (2022) which is currently streaming on Netflix.  The film is based on the Carlo Collodi book and has a screenplay by Guillermo Del Toro and PatrickMcHale and is directed by Guillermo Del Toro and Mark Gustafson.  The story shows us what happens to Geppeto's (David Bradley) son, Carlo, and how the anger and grief propel Geppeto to create a little boy made from wood whom we come to find out is named Pinocchio (Gregory Mann).  We're introduced to a multitude of characters that contribute to Pinocchio's journey and quest to become a real boy.  The film is rated PG and clocks in at 1 h 57 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. This episode of the podcast is dedicated to my new work family - Kate, Sabina, Serge and David - in thanks to their kindness and generosity.  Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing SEE HOW THEY RUN (2022), currently available on HBO Max.  When Leo Kopernick (Adrien Brody) is murdered, Constable Stalker (Saoirse Ronan) and Inspector Stoppard (Sam Rockwell) are called in to solve the whodunit in 1950's West End, London.  Heavily influenced by Wes Anderson, this film sadly lacks the character and charm of an Anderson movie.  Go see PADDINGTON 2 instead.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 38 m and is rated PG-13.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing KLAUS (2019) which is currently streaming on Netflix.  The film follows Jesper (Jason Schwartzman) as he's sent to Smeerensburg to be the new postman.  Here he meets Klaus (J.K. Simmons) who teaches him that a simple act of kindness always sparks another.  The film is directed and from an original story by Sergio Pablos, with screenplay credits to Jim Mahoney and Zach Lewis, is rated PG and clocks in at 1 h 36 m. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing HATCHING (2022), currently available on Hulu.  A strange and riveting horror story from writer/director Hanna Bergholm, the story touches on themes of mothers and daughters and "daughters" and children looking desperately for parental love and acceptance.  Equally horrific and heartbreaking in some parts, this Finnish film is a MUST WATCH.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 31 m and is unrated but we're going to say it's PG-13.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing MY FATHER'S DRAGON (2022) which is currently streaming on Netflix.  Based on the book by Ruth Stiles Gannett, the film is directed by Nora Twomey, with a screenplay by Meg LeFauve.  The story follows Elmer Elevator (Jacob Tremblay) who along with his mother, move to the city for a new start and opportunities.  But the big city is cold and unkind and Elmer finds himself trying to change their luck by following the Cat's (Whoopi Goldberg) advice and seek out fortune through finding the Wild Island Dragon, Boris (Gaten Matarazzo).  The film has a run time of 1 h 39 m, and is rated PG. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing DISENCHANTED (2022), currently available on Disney+.  A follow up to the 2007 original, this film falls flat in spite of a great cast by ignoring what made the first film so great.  A very weak script and uninteresting story make this a huge disappointment.  The original is on Disney+ and you're better off watching the 2007 original film.  The film has a run time of 2 h and 1 m and is rated PG.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing ENCHANTED (2007) which is currently streaming on Disney+.  Directed by Kevin Lima, with a screenplay by Bill Kelly, the story follows Giselle (Amy Adams) who's been awaiting her Prince to come, finally meets him (James Marsden), falls madly in love and on her wedding day, is tricked by the evil Queen Narissa and transported to a place of never happily after (New York) where she meets Madison (Rachel Covey) and her Dad, Robert (Patrick Dempsey).  The film has a run time of 1 h 47 m, and is rated PG. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing MORBIUS (2022), currently available on Netflix.  I have nothing kind to say here other than do yourself a favor and head over to HBO Max and check out PADDINGTON 2 - you won't regret that.  The film has a run time of 1 h and 44 m and is rated PG-13.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing ENOLA HOLMES 2 (2022) which is currently streaming on Netflix.  Based on Nancy Springer's "Enola Holmes Mysteries' book series", the film is directed by Harry Bradbeer, with screenplay credits to Jack Thorne, and is the sequel to the 2020 ENOLA HOLMES movie that premiered on Netflix.  The film opens up and finds Enola (Millie Bobby Brown) being chased by police, then breaking the 4th wall and going back to tell the story up to this particular point.  High off the success of solving her initial case, Enola finds herself starting a detective agency.  Unfortunately, her happiness is short lived because she soon finds herself unable to make a go of her new business and having to close her storefront.  As she is packing up, Bessie (Serrana Su-Ling Bliss), comes to hire Enola to try and find her missing "sister," Sarah (Hannah Dodd).  A few of the characters from the first movie return and her brother, super sleuth, Sherlock Holmes (Henry Cavill) plays a more prominent role in this story.  The film has a run time of 2 h 9 m, and is rated PG-13. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing BARBARIAN (2022), currently available on HBO Max but also still in theaters.  Written and directed by Zach Cregger, the film is making waves and rightly so.  The story follows Tess (Georgina Campbell) who arrives one evening to her AirBnB only to discover that there's already another guest staying there.  She meets Keith (Bill Skarsgård) who insists she spend the night in the bedroom as he transplants himself to the couch since she's come to interview for a job.  He tells her they can figure stuff out the next day and her initial alarm and apprehensions melt away as the evening turns into a more pleasant experience with Keith.  Tess goes to her interview the next day but a few things that should be red flags are ignored and then the story ramps up into Crazytown.  Our advice is go into this without reading any spoilers to really enjoy the ride - you won't regret it.  This is one of the better horror movies of the year.   The film has a run time of 1 h and  m and is rated R.    Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing STEVEN UNIVERSE: THE MOVIE (2019) which is currently streaming on HBO Max, Hulu and for rent/buy on Prime.  Directed by show creator Rebecca Sugar, with co-director credits to Joseph D. Johnston and Kat Morris, the movie reconnects with Steven (voiced by Zach Callison) at 16 and how everything is good in Beach City and his major battles behind him, Steven immediately breaks out in song with his cohorts.  But soon the calm and peace of Beach City is disrupted when a new threat in the form of Spinel (Sarah Stiles) comes to Earth to wreak havoc and punish everything and everyone that has a connection to Pink Diamond/Rose Quartz/Steven's Mom.  The film has a run time of 1 h 45 m, and is rated TV-PG. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing WENDELL & WILD (2022) which is currently streaming on Netflix.  Based on a book by Henry Selick and Clay McLeod Chapman,  with a screenplay by Selick and Jordan Peele, the film follows Kat (Lyric Ross) who suffers a devastating personal loss and 5 years later is sent to a school for girls and encounters two demons, Wendell (Keegan-Michael Key) and his brother, Wild (Jordan Peele) who are trying to come over to the Land of the Living.  The film has a run time of 1 h 45 m, and is rated PG-13. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing MR. HARRIGAN'S PHONE (2022) which is currently streaming on Netflix.  Based on a short story by the Master, Stephen King, the film was written for the screen and directed by John Lee Hancock.  The film follows Craig (Jaeden Martell), a young man who's lost his mother, is lonely and facing the challenges of growing up with little to no support, befriends the town's richest man, Mr. Harrigan (Donald Sutherland in a fantastic performance).  Mr. Harrigan hires young Craig to come and read to him and after several years their relationship has grown stronger.  Craig wins a small jackpot prize from a scratch off gifted to him by Mr. Harrigan and Craig decides to get his friend a smartphone.  Shortly after, Mr Harrigan dies and in his grief, Craig places the phone in Mr. Harrigan's pocket before he is buried.  In his loneliness and sadness, Craig reaches out to his friend to vent about being bullied.  Later, Craig's bully is found dead.  Coincidence?  Maybe...or maybe not.  You'll have to watch the film to find out how the story ends.  The film has a run time of 1 h 44 m, and is rated PG-13. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing WOLFMAN'S GOT NARDS (2018), currently available on Plex/Pluto TV/Tubi and for buy/rent on Prime Video.  Directed by Andre Gower, who played Sean in the original 1987 film, THE MONSTER SQUAD, this film is a love letter to the fans and a people's history of the actors, crew and creatives behind the cult 1987 film.  The documentary catches up with director/writer Fred Dekker, as well as writer Shane Black as they go into the process that became the film.  Throughout, there are snippets of really amazing fan art as it serves as tabs into the different chapters in the story.  The actors, with the exception of Brent Chalem who sadly passed away in 1997 at the age of 22, come back to offer insight and testimony to the making of the film and their experiences back then and to the actors who have come back as the film got new life in the film festival circuit.  We get to see the creatives behind all the cool monster collaborations and hear from an array of interesting fans - who caught up with the squad on the tours and also who were helped shape into the careers they pursued because of the film's reach and influence. The film is 1 h and 31 m and is unrated.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing THE MONSTER SQUAD (1987) which is currently streaming on Paramount+, Roku & Amazon Prime with a premium subscription and for free on Pluto TV.  Directed by Fred Dekker, with a screenplay by Fred Dekker and Shane Black, from a story idea by Fred Dekker; the film follows the Monster Squad, headed up by Sean (Andre Gower), Patrick (Robby Kiger), Horace (the late Brent Chalem), Eugene (Michael Faustino), Rudy (Ryan Lambert) and Phoebe (Ashley Bank) as they fight to save themselves and their hometown from a planned evil take over from Dracula (Duncan Regehr) and his assembled Monsters.  The film has a run time of 1 h 58 m, and is rated PG-13. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. CORRECTION: The documentary is called WOLFMAN'S GOT NARDS and is an absolute treat and perfect companion piece to the original THE MONSTER SQUAD 1987 film.  You can find that for viewing on Plex/Pluto TV/Tubi and for buy/rent on Prime Video. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing THOROUGHBREDS (2017), currently streaming on HBO Max.  Written and directed by Cory Finley, the film stars Olivia Cooke as Amanda and Anya Taylor-Joy as Lily, two young women of privilege that rekindle their friendship and in the process plot to kill one of their father's.  The film is 1 h and 32 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review.   Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing DO REVENGE (2022) which is currently streaming on Netflix.  Directed by  Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, with a screenplay by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson and Celeste Ballard, the film follows two girls, Drea (Camila Mendes) and Eleanor (Maya Hawke) who happen to form a bond and then concoct a plan to have the other extract revenge from the people who have wronged them.  The film has a run time of 1 h 58 m, and is rated TV-MA. Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and oldest Monster join me in reviewing MY BEST FRIEND'S EXORCISM (2022), currently streaming on Amazon Prime.  Based on Grady Hendrix's Quirk Books novel, with a teleplay credit to Jenna Lamia, the film is directed by Damon Thomas and stars Elsie Fisher as Abby and Amiah Miller as Gretchen.  The film follows Abby, Gretchen and their friends Margaret (Rachel Ogechi Kanu) and Glee (Cathy Ang) as they have a sleepover at Margaret's parents cabin.  During the course of the evening, Abby runs away because she's being made fun of.  Gretchen runs after her and they wind up at an abandoned structure that houses a deep, dark evil secret that is slowly and deliberately coming after all the girls.  The film is 1 h and 37 m and is rated R.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

In which the Mister and Monsters join me in reviewing HOCUS POCUS 2 (2022) which is currently streaming on Disney+.  Based on characters created by David Kirschner and Mick Garris, this follow up to 1993's  film has screenplay credits to David Kirschner, Blake Harris, Jen D'Angelo and is directed by Anne Fletcher.  The