Tag: Annette Bening

Laura Dern, Annette Bening, Paul Water Hauser, DeWanda Wise, Michael C Hall, Common Featured In BEHIND THE LINES Documentary

Sypher Studios and Lon Haber & Co announce the AFM World Market Premiere and first-look footage of the new feature documentary, Behind the Lines, based on the New York Times bestselling book of the same name by the renowned historian Andrew Carroll. The film follows Carroll’s decades-long journey, including into active war zones, to find “the most extraordinary war letters ever written” from the American Revolution to the present day. Behind the Lines differs from other war letters-related films in that it includes correspondences from the home front as well as by civilians who are literally “caught in the crossfire.” 

Narrated by Annette Bening, the film features on-screen letter-performances by a star-studded cast including Laura Dern, Michael C. Hall, Paul Walter Hauser, Common, DeWanda Wise, Gary Cole, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and many more. Directed by first-time feature director John B. Benitz and written by Andrew Carroll, John B. Benitz, and Bryce Cyrier. Producers include Jason Pamer, Jens Jacob, Bryce Cyrier, John B. Benitz, and Andrew Carroll. Executive producers include Kerry Patton and David Lopez.

The talented, international and diverse star-studded ensemble cast includes, in order of appearance, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Abigail Cowen, Dylan Sprouse, Monique Edwards, Michael C. Hall, Garrett Schweighauser, Gary Cole, Thurn Hoffman, Jay Lee, Laura Dern, Sandra Seacat, Richard T. Jones, Rachel Bloom, Chase Cargill, Paul Walter Hauser, Kathleen Goff, Erick Lopez, Darwin Shaw, Jörg Witte, Takuya Iba, Wes Studi, Eliza Bennett, DeWanda Wise, Piotr Brozda, and Genia Michaela.

Behind the Lines was one of six finalists of the coveted Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Filmwhich recognizes exemplary documentary films that tell compelling stories about American history. 

“We’re thrilled and honored to be working with the stellar cast and crew of Behind the Lines and to be able to introduce such a profoundly meaningful film to the global marketplace at the American Film Market (AFM) at a time when it is essential that stories like these are told. Behind the Lines is a rare gem that offers a first-hand, well-rounded glimpse into the personal dynamics of war and the far-ranging ripple effects it has on everyone, all over the world,” said Lon Haber, Founder of Lon Haber & Co – IPPR, who is presenting the film to buyers at AFM for the very first time. “Behind the Lines is a commercially viable product with heart, that stays true to its artistic and historic integrity, and one to which audiences from every corner of the globe can relate,” Haber continued.

“Instead of merely focusing on the wars, Behind the Lines delves into the humanity of all who serve and those connected to them with first-hand accounts spanning two and half centuries that range from heart-wrenching to heart-warming and even comedic, depicting what it’s like for those on the frontlines and their families at home on a daily basis,” said producer Jason Pamer. 

“I couldn’t be more proud of this film and how it emphasizes the service and sacrifice of our troops, our veterans, and their families. And we have so many letters and emails that I think this film could be the kick-off to a whole series in which every episode focuses on a single topic or story,” said writer and film subject Andrew Carroll.   

“This personal and emotional journey into the war experience uncovers in stark reality our worst impulses but also the secrets of our shared humanity offering hope, understanding and perhaps even compassion and reconciliation in these divisive times,” said director John B. Benitz. 

Sypher Studios is repped by Neil Sacker at Sacker Entertainment Law. 

NYAD – Review

Sometimes we just need to see a flick that gets us motivated. To get us off our “duff”…after we watch it, of course. That was certainly the case with the original ROCKY series which carried over into the current CREED franchise (who hasn’t heard Bill Conti’s score as they begin a run). Yes, the sports genre can be inspiring, plus you can double that when it’s a true tale, a “sports-biopic”. But could you triple the “push” when the movie’s subject is still with us? It’s a good possibility when a couple of superb actresses combine talents with two Oscar-winning documentary filmmakers to tell the tale of the long-distance swimming legend known as NYAD.

This film begins with a montage of archival footage of the tile champion, as she competes in tournaments, breaks records, and is interviewed by the undisputed “king of late night”. Now that’s right as she attempted to swim from Cuba to Key West, Florida way back in 1978. But strong winds made for rough seas that prompted doctors to remove her from the “shark cage”, despite her passionate protests. The film then jumps ahead 31 years as Diana Nyad (Annette Bening) is embarrassed by a surprise 60th birthday party orchestrated by former swimming coach (and romantic partner) Bonnie Stoll (Jodie Foster). After the guests leave, Diana drops a “bombshell” on her: a return to long-distance swimming to finish the Cuba to Florida trek. Bonnie is stunned and refuses to aid Diana, insisting that the years have taken its toll. Undaunted, Diane begins her endurance training at the local pool, and eventually Bonnie drops by to see her progress…and finally agrees to this “project”. Thus begins a multi-year odyssey as the duo struggles to get sponsors, enlist a crew, plot out a strategy, and gather the necessary tools. Those being the proper swimming gear and most importantly, a “guide boat” to navigate the waves beside her. Although team Nyad has a testy first meeting, Captain John Bartlett (Rhys Ifans) agrees to be at the wheels while monitoring the weather conditions. Oh, and this time there will be no protective cage around Diana, as two men in a raft will dangle “sound wires” that emit a hum that repels sharks. They’ll be on the other side of her, but what of the other “sea menace”, the box jellyfish, whose sting can quickly kill? At least Bonnie will be there to make sure that Dyan gets her “fuel” (pasta on a pole and liquids through a very long straw). The team endures multiple setbacks as Diana strives to prove that she’s not ready to “sit it out”. But will time sap her strength and stamina?

Those two powerhouse actresses propel this film past the standard “against the odds” biopic. Naturally it all sinks or swims on the efforts of the title interpreter. As is often the case, Ms. Bening is the epitome of fierce determination as the warrior who pushes through the pain. But her take on Ms. Nyad isn’t always on a “pedestal”. In the opening scenes, we see her hesitation and discomfort in social situations. Plus there an uncertainty as she watches the “younger set” glide past her in that public pool. Then we see Bening “re-charged” as the big day nears. And there’s much more of that fighting spirit as she pushes hard against the well-meaning efforts of her crew. Most protective is Bonnie played by Ms, Foster as the very definition of a supporting role. We can see her frustration as, like Pacino in his third time as the Don, she’s “pulled back in”. Foster shows us how the hours at sea wear on Bonnie, as she tries to gauge the condition of her friend, protecting Diana even as she rebuffs her concerns. Much the same can be said of Ifans as the crusty “old salt” who breaks through his own negative space to embrace Nyad and Bonnie’s dream of beating “ole’ King Triton”. Ifans shows us how Bartlett slowly embraces his role on the team, even letting a bit of optimism into his noggin’.

It’s hard to fathom (sorry) that this is the first narrative feature for directors Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyl and Jimmy Chin as they make several bold narrative choices that create as much tension as their Oscar-winning doc feature FREE SOLO, a true “nail-biter”. Working from Julia Cox’s screenplay adaptation of Nyad’s book, the duo finds a way to make us feel as though we’re floating alongside Diana while navigating through her memories. She’s fighting the repetition, the cold currents, the weather, and her memories of childhood trauma. Nyad first endures the breakup of her family as she’s torn away from her beloved, nurturing Greek papa, then must deal with horrific sexual abuse from a surrogate father figure, her high school swimming coach. We piece this together via the flashes in Diana’s brain as she tries to block out weird images as the illusions creep in. Happily, the directing duo doesn’t allow the film to get bogged down in the plans and special devices and gizmos (aplenty), though some of them seemed lifted from a spy caper or a science fiction story (Diana wears an odd full face-hugging mask that makes her a resembles a blank-featured alien, much like Odo on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine”). As with Bening’s last nonfiction role of screen vamp Gloria Grahame, the archival footage of the real person isn’t jarring in the least. The cast and the filmmakers realistically convey all the hardships and triumphs of these two remarkable women as they make a place in the history books (and websites) for the astounding athlete named NYAD.

3 out of 4

NYAD is now playing in select theaters

Annette Bening And Jodie Foster Star In Trailer For Netflix’s NYAD

Netflix has released the brand new trailer for NYAD. NYAD tells the remarkable true story of athlete Diana Nyad who, at the age of 60 and with the help of her best friend and coach, commits to achieving her life-long dream: a 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida.

In their Telluride Film Festival review, Variety’s Peter Debruge says: “it’s the private glimpses of vulnerability that make “Nyad” so effective, along with the personal scenes between Diana and Bonnie — dramatized moments when no cameras were present in the real world. Audiences want to see Diana Nyad succeed, but the pleasure of the experience comes from watching actors become these characters. No matter how tricky such feats must have been to re-create, you get the impression that everyone involved was having a blast.”

A remarkable true story of tenacity, friendship and the triumph of the human spirit, NYAD recounts a riveting chapter in the life of world-class athlete Diana Nyad. Three decades after giving up marathon swimming in exchange for a prominent career as a sports journalist, at the age of 60, Diana (four-time Academy Award nominee Annette Bening) becomes obsessed with completing an epic swim that always eluded her: the 110 mile trek from Cuba to Florida, often referred to as the “Mount Everest” of swims. Determined to become the first person to finish the swim without a shark cage, Diana goes on a thrilling, four-year journey with her best friend and coach Bonnie Stoll (two-time Academy Award winner Jodie Foster) and a dedicated sailing team.

NYAD. (L-R) Annette Bening as Diana Nyad and Jodie Foster as Bonnie Stoll in NYAD. Cr. Kimberley French/Netflix ©2023

The Washington Post’s Ann Hornaday says in her review: ““Nyad” is a prime showcase for Bening, who delivers a brave, bravura turn as a woman who is frankly not that likable, but whose arrogance and selfishness mask devastating buried wounds. But her characterization would be monotonous and even alienating if it weren’t for a superlative supporting cast, including Rhys Ifans as navigator John Bartlett, a crusty, unsentimental sea dog who can give as good as he gets, and whose knowledge of the Gulf Stream proves crucial, not just to Diana’s completion of the swim, but to her survival. Ifans is one revelation in “Nyad.” But by far the biggest and most gratifying is Foster, whom generations have watched grow up on-screen, and who here reminds us why she’s among the most beloved actors of her time.”

NYAD. (L-R) Jodie Foster as Bonnie Stoll and Annette Bening as Diana Nyad in NYAD. Cr. Kimberley French/Netflix ©2023

The inspirational film marks the narrative directorial debut of Academy Award-winning documentary filmmakers Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin (Free Solo, The Rescue). NYAD is produced by Andrew Lazar, p.g.a. and Teddy Schwarzman, p.g.a. with a screenplay by Julia Cox, adapted from the memoir “Find a Way” by Diana Nyad.

Look for NYAD in select theaters on October 20th and on Netflix on November 3rd.

DEATH ON THE NILE (2022) – Review

In director Kenneth Branagh’s mystery-thriller “Death on the Nile” based on the 1937 novel by Agatha Christie, Simon Doyle (ARMIE HAMMER) and Linnet Ridgeway (GAL GADOT) are a picture-perfect couple on a honeymoon voyage down the Nile River which is tragically cut short. Wedding guests aboard the glamorous river steamer in this daring tale about the emotional chaos and deadly consequences triggered by obsessive love include Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot (KENNETH BRANAGH) and an all-star cast of suspects. Twentieth Century Studios’ “Death on the Nile” opens in U.S. theaters on February 11, 2022. Photo by Rob Youngson. © 2020 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

Not in the mood for romance this big pre-holiday weekend? Well, how about a murder, most foul, and….quite stylish. You see, this isn’t a grim and gritty crime caper, like those profiled in all the podcasts and streaming channels. This is based on a classic novel from an iconic novelist with an almost as famous sleuth out to nab the culprits. Nope, it’s not the fellow from London with the deerstalker cap, nor the hard-nosed PI from San Fran spotting a battered fedora. This “prestige picture” marks the return (after nearly five years ) of the shamus with the spectacular ‘stashe, Hercule Poirot as portrayed by Kenneth Branaugh (still basking in the glow of all those recent Oscar noms, no doubt). He’s ditched the train in favor of an equally luxurious river steamer (with an equally impressive all-star cast) just in time the ponder the mystery concerning a grisly DEATH ON THE NILE.

We filmgoers do quite a bit of traveling also, as the prologue goes from the horror of WW1 in 1914 to a mid-1930s flashback in a crowded London jazz club. Poirot (Branaugh) is there to sample the superb desserts but is distracted by the blues guitar stylings of the enigmatic singer Salome Otterbourne (Sophie Okonedo), managed by her niece Rosalie (Letitia Wright). Also catching his eye is the re-uniting of old friends, the wealthy debutante Linnet Ridgeway (Gal Gadot) and school chum Jacqueline du Bellefort (Emma Mackey) who is there with her new fiancee, not-so-wealthy American Simon Doyle (Armie Hammer). Out of his hearing range, Jacqueline implores Linnet to hire Simon as a manager for her newest luxury manor. Several months later, Hercule is vacationing in Egypt and runs into his old friend from the Orient Express Bouc (Tom Bateman) who’s there with his prickly mother Euphemia (Annette Bening). The duo is staying at the plush local hotel to celebrate the wedding of Simon and…Linnet (how things can change in a few months). Also in attendance are Linnet’s godmother, the sickly “pro-worker” Marie Van Schuyler (Jennifer Sanders) with ever-present Nurse Bowers (Dawn French), her financial manager/cousin Katchadourian (Ali Fazal), and her ex-fiancee Dr. Windlesham (Russell Brand), along with entertainment provided by Salome and Rosalie. Oh, and a big surprise…the definitely “not-invited” Jacqueline. But this will not change the honeymoon plans. Hercule is invited to join them in a cruise down the Nile via the “top of the line” steamer, the Karnak. A side trek through the ruins almost ends in tragedy, but things don’t really get “dicey” until Jacqueline sneaks about at one of the ports. It’s almost inevitable that this unnerving tension will lead the way to (cue the ominous music beat)…MURDER!!

With the second “case” under his belt, Branugh brings a touch more humanity to the great Belgian detective. He shows us how the loss of a great romance altered his behavior, though he is progressing a bit more, Branugh’s superb line delivery shines through, whether he’s extolling a fine cuisine as he’s tossing a wry insult toward an insufferable intruder to his table. But there’s more warmth here as seen in his affection for the rascal Bouc and in his stammering infatuation with Salome, played with scene-stealing gusto by Okonedo. She demands respect while still being impressed and charmed by the eccentricities of Hercule. Mackey is almost a sad vengeful specter as the rebuffed Jacqueline. Bening embodies haughty propriety as the easily annoyed matron. What a treat to see the comedy team of French and Saunders reunited as the bickering duo (Schulyer dislikes the “upper classes” while Bowers delights in the “fancy fluff”). Speaking of comic actors, Brand is quite effective as the dejected suitor of Linette who knows that everyone finds him “ridiculous”.Once again, Gadot is luminous as the “poor lil’ rich girl”, glowing in the gorgeous retro fashions, though her character has little to do. And Hammer, in what could be his big-screen “swan song”, evokes the thin-mustached 30s “rakes” and “swells”.These river travelers are just as complex and compelling as those rail passengers from the last “crime caper”.

And once again, Branagh does double duty as director helming another Agatha Christie adaptation from Michael Green, a witty one at that. Actually, this follow-up feels a bit more fluid since the previous one went out of its way to get off the train to the point of absurdity (interrogation is the frigid tundra…brrrrr). There’s no great effort to “open it up” since it is a touring cruiser. The stroll through the ruins is eerie (I half expected Karloff to shamble out of a hidden chamber) and exciting, with great use of CGI and drone footage. The “meat” of the tale is on board and the Karnak becomes almost a character itself, with sudden staircases and dark lower decks. The film’s odd choices are really in the opening sequences. The WW1 scenes feel like rehashes of 1917, WONDER WOMAN, and even THE KING’S MAN, though the use of black and white gives it the look of a feverish nightmare. But then it goes from those battle terrors to the London nightclub where Salome provides the soundtrack to a thrusting, gyrating dancehall orgy (I hope several physical therapists were on call to handle pulled muscles and limbs). It’s a weird sweaty mix of DIRTY DANCING, “Cirque du Soleil”, and CALIGULA. Maybe those tiny desserts fueled the contortions. Well, at least the fashions were superb, with everyone reflecting the sun with the crisp variations of white and soft pastels. Ditto for the period furnishings, autos, and sets. For fans of all-star late show whodunits, this is a splendid reworking of the novel and its fondly recalled 1978 movie. DEATH ON THE NILE is an engaging mix of travelogue and mystery that should keep audiences guessing the culprit right up to the big reveal. Now if only Poirot could enjoy a murder-free vacation…

3 Out of 4

DEATH ON THE NILE is now playing in theatres everywhere

Win Free Passes To The St. Louis Advanced Screening Of DEATH ON THE NILE

Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot’s Egyptian vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer turns into a terrifying search for a murderer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short. Set against an epic landscape of sweeping desert vistas and the majestic Giza pyramids, this tale of unbridled passion and incapacitating jealousy features a cosmopolitan group of impeccably dressed travelers, and enough wicked twists and turns to leave audiences guessing until the final, shocking denouement.

Stars Kenneth Branagh, Tom Bateman, Annette Bening, Russell Brand, Ali Fazal, Dawn French, Gal Gadot, Armie Hammer, Rose Leslie, Emma Mackey, Sophie Okonedo, Jennifer Saunders, Letitia Wright. Directed by Kenneth Branagh, “Death on the Nile” opens in U.S. theaters February 11, 2022.

Get tickets now. https://fandan.co/33Qadu1

Enter at the link below for a chance to win passes (good for 2) to the advance screening of DEATH ON THE NILE On Wednesday, February 9, 7pm at Marcus Ronnies Cine 20. 

http://gofobo.com/DOTNGeeks

Rated PG 13.

Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot in 20th Century Studios’ DEATH ON THE NILE. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2022 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Here’s the Trailer For Christoph Waltz’s Directorial Debut GEORGETOWN – Debuting in Select Theaters May 14th and Available on Digital and On Demand May 18th

Christoph Waltz, Vanessa Redgrave and Annette Bening Star in Waltz’s Thrilling Directorial Debut GEORGETOWN. Available on Digital and On Demand May 18 and Debuting in Select Theaters May 14. Check out this great trailer:

GEORGETOWN stars Waltz, Academy Award® winner** Vanessa Redgrave (Julia) and Academy Award® nominee*** Annette Bening (American Beauty).  In this thrilling true crime story filled with twists, turns, and political turmoil Waltz stars as Ulrich Mott, an eccentric and smooth-talking social climber who seems to have everyone in Washington, D.C. wrapped around his finger. But when his wealthy, well-connected and much older wife (Redgrave) turns up dead in their home, her daughter Amanda (Bening) suspects Ulrich may not be all that he seems as the police investigation begins to uncover a larger deception that goes far deeper than anyone ever imagined.

The film will also be released in select theaters by Vertical Entertainment beginning May 14 and on Video-On-Demand and for purchase from Paramount Home Entertainment on Digital beginning May 18, 2021.

Watch The New Trailer For Kenneth Branagh’s DEATH ON THE NILE Starring Gal Gadot – In Theaters October 23

The first trailer and teaser poster from Twentieth Century Studios’ daring mystery-thriller “Death on the Nile” are here! This tale of unbridled passion and incapacitating jealousy, which is directed by and stars five-time Academy Award nominee Kenneth Branagh and features an all-star cast of suspects, opens in U.S. theaters October 23, 2020.

Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot’s Egyptian vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer turns into a terrifying search for a murderer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short. Set against an epic landscape of sweeping desert vistas and the majestic Giza pyramids, this tale of unbridled passion and incapacitating jealousy features a cosmopolitan group of impeccably dressed travelers, and enough wicked twists and turns to leave audiences guessing until the final, shocking denouement. 

Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot in 20th Century Studios’ DEATH ON THE NILE, a mystery-thriller directed by Kenneth Branagh based on Agatha Christie’s 1937 novel. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2020 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

“Death on the Nile” reunites the filmmaking team behind 2017’s global hit “Murder on the Orient Express,” and stars five-time Academy Award® nominee Kenneth Branagh as the iconic detective Hercule Poirot.

He is joined by an all-star cast of suspects, including: Tom Bateman, four-time Oscar® nominee Annette Bening, Russell Brand, Ali Fazal, Dawn French, Gal Gadot, Armie Hammer, Rose Leslie, Emma Mackey, Sophie Okonedo, Jennifer Saunders and Letitia Wright. “Death on the Nile” is written by Michael Green, adapted from Christie’s novel, and is produced by Ridley Scott, Mark Gordon, Simon Kinberg, Kenneth Branagh, Judy Hofflund and Kevin J. Walsh, with Matthew Jenkins, James Prichard and Matthew Prichard serving as executive producers.

Scene from 20th Century Studios’ DEATH ON THE NILE, a mystery-thriller directed by Kenneth Branagh based on Agatha Christie’s 1937 novel. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2020 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Gal Gadot as Linnet Ridgeway and Emma Mackey as Jacqueline De Bellefort in 20th Century Studios’ DEATH ON THE NILE, a mystery-thriller directed by Kenneth Branagh based on Agatha Christie’s 1937 novel. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2020 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Gal Gadot as Linnet Ridgeway, Emma Mackey as Jacqueline De Bellefort and Armie Hammer as Simon Doyle in 20th Century Studios’ DEATH ON THE NILE, a mystery-thriller directed by Kenneth Branagh based on Agatha Christie’s 1937 novel. Photo by Rob Youngson. © 2020 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

THE REPORT – Review

Adam Driver stars as FBI agent Daniel Jones who investigated CIA interrogation techniques, in the gripping drama THE REPORT. Photo courtesy of Amazon Studios.

In this tense, gripping true story drama, Adam Driver plays a FBI agent who relentless pursues the truth about the torture of suspected terrorists in the aftermath of 9/11. His searing report exposed the brutal reality of CIA’s enhanced interrogation techniques, which were adopted in the wake of 9/11. Even if you are a news junkie who thinks you know this story well, this powerful drama will take you by surprise and catch you up in its thriller tension, as it weaves an epic, eye-opening tale of secrecy, deceit, cover-up and corruption, in one man’s dogged pursuit of the truth.

Scott Z. Burns both directs and wrote the script, based on the story of idealistic young FBI agent Daniel Jones (Adam Driver). Jones was galvanized by the events of 9/11 and had changed his college major to security in order to fight terrorists. He is tasked by Senator Dianne Feinstein (Annette Bening) with investigating what is going on with the CIA’s enhanced interrogation techniques after disturbing hints about water boarding and other techniques surface. What Jones uncovers is much bigger and more awful than either expect.

The investigation takes place in the fraught national atmosphere immediately after 9/11, when anything seemed acceptable in the pursuit of terrorists and questioning what was done in that quest was seen as unpatriotic, no matter how ineffective or legally-questionable the techniques. Although much of the story takes place in shadowy garages rooms and claustrophobic hidden rooms. it has the taut feel of film noir or edgy spy thriller, thanks to Burns’ skillful direction and Eigil Bryld’s oft-eerie, desaturated cinematography. The drama often evokes the feel of classic political thrillers such as THREE DAYS OF THE CONDOR and ALL THE PRESIDENTS MEN. As Jones encounters rising resistance to the release of his detailed report about horrific facts, the feeling shifts to the Kafkaesque.

Adam Driver’s character is at the center of the story and most scenes, and he gives a riveting, moving performance as a young man motivated by patriotism who becomes consumed by this one task. Driver’s Jones is so immersed in his quest to uncover the truth, that he hardly notices the passage of days. As h goes down this rabbit hole, he seems like a man in the grips of addiction, compulsively peeling back layers of secrecy, false science and cover-ups. Appalled by what he uncovers, he becomes equally obsessed with getting the truth out to the American people through his report, despite official obstruction an political pressures to just drop it and move on.

Annette Bening is affecting as Feinstein, the senator Jones works for, the one who sets him on this task. At first, she is impressed by his dedication but later begins to question where his investigation is going. By turns, she is irritated by his insistence on the release of his exhaustive report, worried about the political complications its release might create, and concerned about the personal toll the investigation is taking on him, and finally moved by his devotion to the task that has taken over his life.

Jon Hamm plays a smooth character who seems helpful at first, then not, as the investigation goes into hidden corners. The fine cast also includes Corey Stoll, Tim Blake Nelson, Maura Tierney and Michael C. Hall, who all give strong performances as various officials who either help or hinder Jones. But, in the end, it is the emotional power of Driver’s performance as a man so totally committed to revealing the truth, as much as to what he uncovered, that makes this film so impressive and emotionally powerful.

THE REPORT delivers an edge-of-your-seat political thriller that will grab you even if you think you know the story, as well as an inspiring portrait of a heroic man determined to do the right thing against all odds.

RATING: 4 out of 4 stars

CAPTAIN MARVEL Lands in Blu-ray Collections June 11th – Check Out This Bonus Clip

CAPTAIN MARVEL, the spectacular, 1990s-era Super Hero adventure, which electrified and inspired audiences worldwide and surpassed $1 billion in ticket sales, has been available on Digital in HD and 4K Ultra HD and Movies Anywhere since May 28, and lands on Blu-ray and Blu-ray 4K Ultra HD™ June 11.

Check out this bonus clip:

Arriving home with extensive line-up of extras detailing the development of this highly anticipated addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), “Captain Marvel” includes Featurettes that highlight the transformative journey of Brie Larson (Captain Marvel) and her character’s impact on audiences around the globe; the influence of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) on significant events within the MCU; the perfect pairing of directors Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck; the ongoing conflict between the Skrulls and the Kree; and the raw talent behind the fetching feline named Goose. Viewers also gain access to six deleted scenes, director commentary, a gag reel loaded with funnies, flubs and Flerkens, and never-before-seen concept art and production photography. 

“Captain Marvel” comes packaged in various formats to best fit today’s varying consumer desires. Viewers can bring home the film two weeks early on Digital 4K Ultra HD, HD and SD and gain access to two exclusive features, including a behind-the-scenes visit with the Visual Effects team that makes the filmmakers’ visions of the MCU come to life and an inside look at the epic team effort that goes into an action-packed sequence within a Marvel Studios film. A physical copy of “Captain Marvel” is available as either a 4K Cinematic Universe Edition (4K UHD+Blu-ray+Digital Copy) or a Multi-Screen Edition (Blu-ray+Digital Copy), granting fans the flexibility to watch on devices of their choice.

BONUS MATERIAL (may vary by retailer):

Blu-ray & Digital:

  • Alternate Movie Versions
    • Movie with Intro – An introduction by directors/screenwriters Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck.
    • Movie with Commentary – Commentary by directors/screenwriters Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck.
  • Featurettes:
    • – Follow Brie Larson’s journey as she joins the MCU, and see what it takes to be a Marvel Super Hero in every sense of the word.

Digital Exclusives:

  • Journey into Visual Effects with Victoria Alonso – Experience how filmmakers’ visions of the MCU come to life on-screen through the skill of the Visual Effects team.
  • What Makes a Memory: Inside the “Mind Frack” – What does it take to craft an action-packed sequence for a Marvel Studios film? Nothing short of an epic team effort!
  • Concept Art – Explore artwork from “Captain Marvel” and trace the visual development of characters.
  • On-Set Images – Uncover a trove of behind-the-scenes and production photography.

Set in the 1990s, “Captain Marvel” is an all-new adventure from a previously unseen period in the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe that introduces the MCU’s first stand-alone, female-franchise title character—Carol Danvers aka Captain Marvel. When we first meet Danvers, she already possesses her superhero powers, having left her earthly life behind and become a member of an intergalactic elite Kree military team called Starforce, led by their enigmatic commander, Yon-Rogg. But after Danvers has trained and worked with the Starforce team, and become a valued member­, she finds herself back on Earth with new questions about her past. While on Earth she quickly lands on the radar of Nick Fury, and they must work together against a formidable enemy in the form of the Skrulls—the notorious Marvel bad guys made even more dangerous by their shape-shifting abilities—and their leader, Talos, who is spearheading a Skrull invasion of Earth.

Based on the beloved Marvel comic-book series, first published in 1967, “Captain Marvel” stars Academy Award® winner Brie Larson (“Room,” “Kong: Skull Island”) as Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel,  Samuel L. Jackson  (Marvel Studios’ “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “The Hateful Eight”) as Nick Fury, Ben Mendelsohn (“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” “Mississippi Grind”) as Talos, with Annette Bening (“American Beauty,” “20th Century Women”) as Supreme Intelligence, with Clark Gregg (“Marvel’s The Avengers,” “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.”) as Agent Coulson and Jude Law (“Sherlock Holmes,” “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald”) as Yon-Rogg.

The film also includes a talented supporting cast that features Djimon Hounsou(“Blood Diamond,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”) as Korath, Lee Pace (“The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”) as Ronan, Lashana Lynch (“Bulletproof,” “Brotherhood”) as Maria Rambeau, Gemma Chan (“Crazy Rich Asians,” “Humans”) as Minn-Erva, Rune Temte (“Eddie the Eagle,” “The Last Kingdom”) as Bron-Char, Algenis Perez Soto (“Sugar,” “Isolated Victim”) as Att-Lass, Mckenna Grace (“Gifted,” “I, Tonya”) as Young Carol Danvers and Akira Akbar (“Grey’s Anatomy”) as Monica Rambeau.

Marvel Studios’ “Captain Marvel” is produced by Kevin Feige and directed by Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck (“Half Nelson,” “Sugar,” “Mississippi Grind”). Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Jonathan Schwartz, Patricia Whitcher and Stan Lee are the executive producers. The story is by Nicole Perlman & Meg LeFauve and Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck & Geneva Robertson-Dworet, and the screenplay is by Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck & Geneva Robertson-Dworet.

Directors Boden and Fleck’s creative team also includes director of photography Ben Davis (“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange”), production designer Andy Nicholson (“Gravity,” “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom”), costume designer Sanja Hays (“The Fate of the Furious,” “Star Trek Beyond”), editors Elliot Graham (“Steve Jobs,” “Molly’s Game”) and Debbie Berman (Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming”), visual effects supervisor Christopher Townsend (Marvel Studios’ “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2”), special effects supervisor Dan Sudick (Marvel Studios’ “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Black Panther”) and composer Pinar Toprak (“The Angel,” “The Challenger”).

Carol Danvers Is Badass In New Trailer For CAPTAIN MARVEL – Tickets On Sale Now

Watch the exclusive look at Marvel Studios’ CAPTAIN MARVEL that aired on ESPN during the 2019 College Football Playoff National Championship game between the Clemson Tigers and the Alabama Crimson Tide.

“That’s a photon blast. “
“And?”
“A Skrull cannot do that.”
“I’m just supposed to take your word for that?”

Snarky, funny, and a badass Carol Danvers … this is one awesome trailer!

Set in the 1990s, Marvel Studios’ “Captain Marvel” is an all-new adventure from a previously unseen period in the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe that follows the journey of Carol Danvers as she becomes one of the universe’s most powerful heroes. While a galactic war between two alien races reaches Earth, Danvers finds herself and a small cadre of allies at the center of the maelstrom.

The film stars Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Mendelsohn, Djimon Hounsou, Lee Pace, Lashana Lynch, Gemma Chan, Rune Temte, Algenis Perez Soto, Mckenna Grace, with Annette Bening, with Clark Gregg, and Jude Law.

Marvel Studios’ “Captain Marvel” is produced by Kevin Feige and directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck. Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Jonathan Schwartz, Patricia Whitcher and Stan Lee are the executive producers. The story is by Nicole Perlman and Joe Shrapnel & Anna Waterhouse, and the screenplay is by Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck and Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Jac Schaeffer.

Marvel Studios’ CAPTAIN MARVEL..Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel (Brie Larson)..Photo: Chuck Zlotnick..©Marvel Studios 2019

Film fans can now buy advance tickets for “Captain Marvel” on Fandango, the ultimate digital network for all things movies. “Captain Marvel” opens in theaters on Friday, March 8.

In a Fandango survey of over 3,500 moviegoers, “Captain Marvel” emerged as one of the top three most anticipated films of 2019. The film’s star, Brie Larson, was overwhelmingly voted as the top actress that fans are excited to see this year.

“‘Captain Marvel’ is one of the most anticipated movies of the year, and for good reason,” says Fandango Managing Editor Erik Davis. “Not only is it Marvel Studios’ first female-lead film, but their track-record is outstanding and moviegoers are super excited to watch Brie Larson become Marvel’s latest – and most powerful – superhero in her biggest role to date.”

In an exclusive interview with Fandango, directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck talked about what fans can expect from the latest installment to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. “It has a lot of playfulness in it, and that kind of buddy-cop vibe that Captain Marvel has with the Nick Fury character was really an important touchstone for us,” said Boden. “Yeah. Like the ‘80s and ‘90s buddy-cop movies, like “48 Hrs.’ or ‘Lethal Weapon,’” added Fleck.

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