NEON has released the brand new poster for ORIGIN. The film presently site at 84% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Written and directed by Academy Award nominee Ava DuVernay, ORIGIN chronicles the tragedy and triumph of Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Isabel Wilkerson as she investigates a global phenomenon of epic proportions.
Portrayed by Academy Award nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (“King Richard”), Isabel experiences unfathomable personal loss and love as she crosses continents and cultures to craft one of the defining American books of our time. Inspired by the New York Times best-seller “Caste,” ORIGIN explores the mystery of history, the wonders of romance and a fight for the future of us all.
In his Vulture review, Bilge Ebiri says: “The film’s structure might have recommended an intellectualized approach, but DuVernay understands that the whole thing only works if she can reassert these people’s humanity. And her feelings for them come through in every scene, no matter how small the moment. Will it work for everyone? I can only say that the movie left me a complete wreck.”
ORIGIN also features Jon Bernthal, Vera Farmiga, Audra McDonald, Niecy Nash-Betts, Nick Offerman, Blair Underwood.
The film opens for an exclusive one-week engagement on December 8 in NY and LA, and in select cities January 19.
R_25682_R (l-r.) Hailey Kilgore stars as Carolyn Franklin, Jennifer Hudson as Aretha Franklin and Saycon Sengbloh as Erma Franklin in RESPECT, A Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film Photo credit: Quantrell D. Colbert
As Summer’s season of movie escapism draws to a close, the Fall and Winter awards season gets a bit of an early start as a new film in one of Oscar’s favorite genre “hybrids” is released. On Friday we get a new entry in the “musical biography” line of award ‘”showcases”. Yes, playing a popular singer/performer has proven to be quite a “gold gatherer” for many actors and actresses. Most recently Rami Malek took the big trophy for “channeling” Freddie Mercury in 2018’s BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY and the following year it was Renee Zellweger in the title role of JUDY, as in Ms. Garland. Of course, the years have seen several tune-filled biopics take home the “gold’ from James Cagney’s George M. Cohen, that YANKEE DOODLE DANDY to Jamie Foxx as RAY Charles. So will the Academy face, and embrace, the music as the story of the “Queen of Soul”, Miss Aretha Franklin, is dramatized in RESPECT?
The film of her story begins fairly early. We’re introduced to little “Ree-Ree” (Skye Dakota Turner) at around age five, as her father, Baptist minister C.L. Franklin (Forrest Whitaker” wakes her from bedtime to sing for the adults at an “after church” boozy social.. Of course, she wows the crowd there as she does in front of Daddy’s congregation. But things aren’t harmonious at home as Ree-Ree happily spends weekends away with her mom, Barbara (Audra McDonald), the ex Mrs. Franklin. When tragedy strikes, the tot’s spirit is almost crushed until music rescues her. As a teen, Aretha (Jennifer Hudson) continues to sing at Daddy’s church, but he has bigger plans for her (aside from helping raise funds for her pal MLK). The two travel to New York, where he negotiates a contract with John Hammond (Tate Donovan) at Columbia records. While Aretha struggles to find her voice (Hammond assigns her pop standards and remakes of other singers’ hits), she reconnects with a suave “bad boy” from Detroit, Ted White (Marlon Wayans) who offers to be her new manager. This angers Daddy, but she takes a chance on Ted when Columbia drops her. Luckily he gets her a deal with Jerry Wexler (Marc Maron) at Atlantic Records, who gives her full creative control, though he suggests she travel to Alabama to record a new jazz/blues tune with the talented studio musicians at Muscle Shoals. The collaboration on “I Never Loved a Man” clicks, though Ted’s ego and fiery temper erupt, as he begins abusing his star (and now wife and mother of his son). Thus begins a tumultuous trek to super-stardom as Aretha tries to free herself from the emotional tug-of-war between Ted and the reverend while attempting to drown her inner darkness with booze and live concerts. Will her musical talents grant her peace and serenity?
As you’ve probably guessed from the marketing barrage, this biopic is meant as a showcase for its star, Hudson, in the hopes that it will rocket her back onto the movie “A-list”. It seems that, after winning a much-deserved Oscar in 2009 for DREAMGIRLS, Hollywood has had problems finding the perfect film “fit” for her. Well, after several small roles in some “indies”, and a stint in Broadway’s revival of the musical “The Color Purple”, Hudson has honed her acting skills and commands the screen as she recreates Franklin’s dynamic stage presence. Off-stage, things don’t go quite as smooth or as silky as her rich singing voice. The Franklin character seems to bounce from buoyant to broken with little reason. Hudson handles the big emotions well, but is often overshadowed by the men vying to control “the Queen”. That’s certainly true of the confrontations with the Reverend, played with intensity and passion by Whitaker, who can fill up several big tents with his “semonizin'”. Then there’s her “arch-enemy”, Ted who has a smooth, devilish charm thanks to the surprising Wayans (who was a delight in the recent ON THE ROCKS). We see him as a master of seduction, denying his gifts to Aretha to keep him on her mind. These early bits of affection make his dive into the “dark side” especially disturbing, as Ted displays his violent hair-trigger temper, that kicks in despite his wife’s “tiptoeing on eggshells” around him. Ah, but there is one “good guy’ in this story. That’s Maron as Wexler, whose endearing blunt proclamations jolt life in the often turgid tale. Who wouldn’t want a fellow like that in your corner to cut through the BS? Some of the even smaller roles stand out. McDonald brings warmth and dignity to Ree-Ree’s adored mama. Titus Burgess also scores as the sympathetic and straightforward James Cleveland. And though she’s only got a couple of scenes, Mary J, Blige is in full diva mode as the haughty Dinah Washington who steers Franklin to greatness.
Introducing a new generation to the wonders of Ms. Franklin’s artistry is quite commendable, but you know what that “road to Hell” is paved with? The script seems to roll out every “rags to riches”, “stardom suffering” cliche we’ve seen in so many better musical biographies. Plus they were done superbly in so many efforts. The abusive, controlling spouse was more compelling in WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT. The “booze battles” and “on stage collapse’ just reminds us of the superior COAL MINER’S DAUGHTER. Perhaps they’re so glaring is because they seem rushed. Even at nearly 145 minutes, the life and career of the Queen, only taking us to 1972 (she passed in 2018), feels like a quick highlight “reel”. A TV miniseries might have been better suited, though the one from last year on cable with Cynthia Erivo had its fumbles. I had seen the first couple of hours and was surprised how the big-time feature movie sugar-coated much of the story, Ted’s shady former business is hinted at here, while the TV version had him in full “love-broker” (from the 1982 classic NIGHT SHIFT) mode (it’s teased with some bloody crumbled currency). And usually, I decry the overuse of smoking, int his film we merely see Hudson holding a cigarette, while the real Aretha had to later fight lung cancer. I will say that the recreation of the era’s fashions is done well, though we never see Hudson in some of Franklin’s more, “out there” outfits (during the end credit montage we see when she went blonde). I did find Ted’s ill-fitting fedoras a bit much. And the film does start to spark in a couple of scenes that try to illustrate the “creative process”. The first is with Muscle Shoals, and later we see Franklin and her two sisters working out the title tune in the pre-dawn hours (much to Ted’s annoyance). But soon we rushed through more life and career milestones, though new children seem to pop up after a record album montage that denotes time passage, almost as an afterthought. The songs (many are just presented as “snippets” and segments) are compelling, but the pedestrian direction from TV vet Liesl Tommy never injects that energy into the often overwrought (Aretha verbally blasts everyone in sight, family and staff, during some downtime at home) life story. Aretha Franklin will forever deserve our admiration and RESPECT. This film, well not so much. You’re better off downloading a greatest hits compilation,
To become the queen, she needed to find her voice.
Academy Award® Winner Jennifer Hudson is Aretha Franklin. Watch the new trailer now, and don’t miss RESPECT in theaters this August.
Director Liesl Tommy makes her feature film debut with Respect. Tommy is the first Black woman ever nominated for a Tony Award® for Best Direction of a Play in 2016 for Eclipsed, and is an Associate Artist at the Berkeley Rep and an Artist Trustee with the Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees.
With a story by Callie Khouri (Oscar® winner for Writing, Thelma & Louise) and Tracey Scott Wilson, and screenplay written by Tracey Scott Wilson. Wilson and Tommy have worked together creatively since the 2009 play The Good Negro written by Wilson, directed by Tommy at The Public Theatre. Wilson was a writer on FX’s The Americans which garnered her a Peabody Award as well as Emmy® and WGA Award nominations.
The cast includes Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans, Audra McDonald, Marc Maron, Tituss Burgess, Kimberly Scott, Saycon Sengbloh, Hailey Kilgore, Heather Headley, Skye Dakota Turner, Tate Donovan and Mary J. Blige.
Hudson debuted the trailer on Good Morning America. Listen to what her favorite Aretha Franklin song is.
Following the rise of Aretha Franklin’s career from a child singing in her father’s church’s choir to her international superstardom, RESPECT is the remarkable true story of the music icon’s journey to find her voice.
Director Liesl Tommy makes her feature film debut with Respect. Tommy is the first Black woman ever nominated for a Tony award for Best Direction of a Play in 2016 for Eclipsed, and is anAssociate Artist at the Berkeley Rep and an Artist Trustee with the Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees.
Check out the first trailer starring Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans, Audra McDonald, Marc Maron, Tituss Burgess, Saycon Sengbloh, Hailey Kilgore, Skye Dakota Turner, Tate Donovan, and Mary J. Blige. See the film this December.
This is going to be fantastic! Jennifer Hudson has previously won a Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for DREAMGIRLS! She was also awarded a Golden Globe, BAFTA Award, and Screen Actors Guild Award for her role as Effie White in the film.
Time for the two-time Grammy award winner to clear a space for another Oscar Statuette.
This is sure to be an Oscar contender next year. Bet on Academy Award nominations for Best Picture, Hudson (Best Actress), Mary J. Blige (Supporting Actress), Forest Whitaker (Supporting Actor) and hopefully for director Liesl Tommy, and possibly cinematography, production design, costume and hair & makeup.
With a story by Callie Khouri (Oscar ® winner for Thelma & Louise) and Tracey Scott Wilson, and screenplay written by Tracey Scott Wilson. Wilson and Tommy have worked together creatively since the 2009 play The Good Negro written by Wilson, directed by Tommy at The Public Theatre. Wilson was a writer on FX’s The Americans which garnered her a Peabody Award as well as Emmy and WGA Award nominations.
Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” the live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic, brought the story and characters audiences know and love to spectacular life and broke box-office records. Now the stunning, cinematic event arrives home today on Digital HD, Blu-ray, Disney Movies Anywhere, DVD and On-Demand.
We Are Movie Geeks has some great bonus material to share with you today from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The clips below give you a glimpse into the design of Belle’s famous golden gown, the dance sequences from the movie, filming at Sherpperton, and some concept images from the design of some of the famous classic characters and the castle.
The Dress:
The Dancing:
Filming at Shepperton
Fans who bring home “Beauty and the Beast” can celebrate the release with three ways to watch the movie – the original theatrical cut, the premiere cut with overture, and a musical experience with a sing-along version. The release invites viewers to get up close and personal with the filmmakers and cast to see how this beloved animated film was transformed into a new live-action classic, from the first enchanted table read to a fascinating look at how the film was brought to life utilizing lavish sets, elaborately designed costumes and props, and state-of the-art technology. A feature on the amazing women behind the enchanted tale hosted by Emma Watson; and over 10 minutes of deleted scenes along with musical extras, including the “Beauty and the Beast” music video starring Ariana Grande and John Legend, Celine Dion’s heartfelt take on the new song “How Does a Moment Last Forever,” and jump directly to all you favorite unforgettable songs.
Bonus features include*:
BLU-RAY & DIGITAL HD:
Enchanted Table Read – Join the cast for the movie’s elaborately staged table read, complete with singing and dancing to live music, set pieces and more.
A Beauty of a Tale – Explore the process of transforming a beloved animated film into a new live-action classic.
The Women Behind “Beauty and the Beast” – Emma Watson introduces several of the talented women in all aspects of production who helped bring this enchanted tale to life.
Making a Moment with Celine Dion – Celine Dion shares what it’s like to sing “How Does a Moment Last Forever” – and be a part of the legacy of “Beauty and the Beast.”
From Song to Screen: Making the Musical Sequences – See what goes into making some of the best-known moments from “Beauty and the Beast.”
“Belle” — Filmmakers and cast reveal how it felt to shoot this memorable scene.
“Be Our Guest” — Discover all that went into creating this epic, primarily virtual performance.
“Gaston” — Join the cast for rehearsals and filming of this rousing, high-energy number.
“Beauty and the Beast” — You’re invited on set for the filming of this beloved, classic scene.
Deleted Scenes
Introduction by Director Bill Condon — Director Bill Condon presents a collection of scenes that, for one reason or another, ended up on the cutting-room floor.
Gaston Courts Belle — Pleased with himself after settling a disturbance with the townspeople, a triumphant Gaston attempts to woo Belle.
Bread and Jam for Agathe — On her morning market rounds, Belle stops by to see Agathe, the village beggar woman.
Storming the Ice Gates — The angry mob of villagers, led by Gaston, overwhelms the castle’s defenses.
Lumière Torches LeFou — As the fight rages around them, LeFou scuffles with Plumette … until he experiences a sudden, extremely heated interruption.
Monsieur Toilette — LeFou escapes from the brawl into a small room, where he’s startled by a castle resident.
Cogsworth Rescues Lumière — When Clothilde the fishmonger threatens Lumière, Cogsworth leaps into the fray.
Treacle the Lasses — Three village lasses chase Chip and Froufrou – Madame Garderobe’s dog-turned-footstool – into the kitchen, where a surprise awaits.
LeFou and Monsieur Toilette Reunite — After the spell is broken and the castle residents are returned to human form, LeFou and his new acquaintance meet again.
Extended Song: “Days in the Sun” – Learn more about Beast’s childhood in an alternate version of this beautiful song, introduced by director Bill Condon.
“Beauty and the Beast” Music Video – Award-winning artists Ariana Grande and John Legend perform a moving version of this iconic song.
Making the Music Video – Go on set to capture the magic as it happens in Ariana Grande and John Legend’s “Beauty and the Beast” music video.
Disney Song Selection – Jump directly to all your favorite songs and sing along with the movie.
“Belle”
“How Does a Moment Last Forever” (Music Box)
“Belle” (Reprise)
“Gaston”
“Be Our Guest”
“Days in the Sun”
“Something There”
“How Does a Moment Last Forever” (Montmartre)
“Beauty and the Beast”
“Evermore”
“The Mob Sing”
“Beauty and the Beast” (Finale)
DVD:
“Beauty and the Beast” Music Video
“Beauty and the Beast” features an extraordinary ensemble cast, including Emma Watson as Belle, Dan Stevens as The Beast, Luke Evans as Gaston, Kevin Kline as Maurice, Josh Gad as LeFou, Ewan McGregor as Lumière, Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, Audra McDonald as Madame de Garderobe, Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Plumette, Hattie Morahan as the enchantress and Nathan Mack as Chip with Ian McKellen as Cogsworth and Emma Thompson as Mrs. Potts.
Directed by Bill Condon and based on the 1991 animated film “Beauty and the Beast,” the screenplay is written by Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos. Alan Menken provides the score, which includes new recordings of the original songs written by Menken and Howard Ashman as well as three new songs written by Menken and Tim Rice. The film is produced by Mandeville Films’ David Hoberman, p.g.a. and Todd Lieberman, p.g.a with Jeffrey Silver, Thomas Schumacher and Don Hahn serving as executive producers.
As Condon explains, “There’s something about this story – and specifically the score, which was written 25 years ago – that is just magical, and I think that’s what still draws people in and is what makes this such a special experience.”
Thanks to the artistry and imagination of Condon and a brilliant creative team, audiences of all ages are sure to be captivated by the story’s music, adventure and romance once again.
Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” the live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic, brought the story and characters audiences know and love to spectacular life and broke box-office records. Now the stunning, cinematic event arrives home on June 6 on Digital HD, Blu-ray, Disney Movies Anywhere, DVD and On-Demand.
Fans who bring home “Beauty and the Beast” can celebrate the release with three ways to watch the movie – the original theatrical cut, the premiere cut with overture, and a musical experience with a sing-along version. The release invites viewers to get up close and personal with the filmmakers and cast to see how this beloved animated film was transformed into a new live-action classic, from the first enchanted table read to a fascinating look at how the film was brought to life utilizing lavish sets, elaborately designed costumes and props, and state-of the-art technology. A feature on the amazing women behind the enchanted tale hosted by Emma Watson; and over 10 minutes of deleted scenes along with musical extras, including the “Beauty and the Beast” music video starring Ariana Grande and John Legend, Celine Dion’s heartfelt take on the new song “How Does a Moment Last Forever,” and jump directly to all you favorite unforgettable songs.
Bonus features include*:
BLU-RAY & DIGITAL HD:
Enchanted Table Read – Join the cast for the movie’s elaborately staged table read, complete with singing and dancing to live music, set pieces and more.
A Beauty of a Tale – Explore the process of transforming a beloved animated film into a new live-action classic.
The Women Behind “Beauty and the Beast” – Emma Watson introduces several of the talented women in all aspects of production who helped bring this enchanted tale to life.
Making a Moment with Celine Dion – Celine Dion shares what it’s like to sing “How Does a Moment Last Forever” – and be a part of the legacy of “Beauty and the Beast.”
From Song to Screen: Making the Musical Sequences – See what goes into making some of the best-known moments from “Beauty and the Beast.”
“Belle” — Filmmakers and cast reveal how it felt to shoot this memorable scene.
“Be Our Guest” — Discover all that went into creating this epic, primarily virtual performance.
“Gaston” — Join the cast for rehearsals and filming of this rousing, high-energy number.
“Beauty and the Beast” — You’re invited on set for the filming of this beloved, classic scene.
Deleted Scenes
Introduction by Director Bill Condon — Director Bill Condon presents a collection of scenes that, for one reason or another, ended up on the cutting-room floor.
Gaston Courts Belle — Pleased with himself after settling a disturbance with the townspeople, a triumphant Gaston attempts to woo Belle.
Bread and Jam for Agathe — On her morning market rounds, Belle stops by to see Agathe, the village beggar woman.
Storming the Ice Gates — The angry mob of villagers, led by Gaston, overwhelms the castle’s defenses.
Lumière Torches LeFou — As the fight rages around them, LeFou scuffles with Plumette … until he experiences a sudden, extremely heated interruption.
Monsieur Toilette — LeFou escapes from the brawl into a small room, where he’s startled by a castle resident.
Cogsworth Rescues Lumière — When Clothilde the fishmonger threatens Lumière, Cogsworth leaps into the fray.
Treacle the Lasses — Three village lasses chase Chip and Froufrou – Madame Garderobe’s dog-turned-footstool – into the kitchen, where a surprise awaits.
LeFou and Monsieur Toilette Reunite — After the spell is broken and the castle residents are returned to human form, LeFou and his new acquaintance meet again.
Extended Song: “Days in the Sun” – Learn more about Beast’s childhood in an alternate version of this beautiful song, introduced by director Bill Condon.
“Beauty and the Beast” Music Video – Award-winning artists Ariana Grande and John Legend perform a moving version of this iconic song.
Making the Music Video – Go on set to capture the magic as it happens in Ariana Grande and John Legend’s “Beauty and the Beast” music video.
Disney Song Selection – Jump directly to all your favorite songs and sing along with the movie.
“Belle”
“How Does a Moment Last Forever” (Music Box)
“Belle” (Reprise)
“Gaston”
“Be Our Guest”
“Days in the Sun”
“Something There”
“How Does a Moment Last Forever” (Montmartre)
“Beauty and the Beast”
“Evermore”
“The Mob Sing”
“Beauty and the Beast” (Finale)
DVD:
“Beauty and the Beast” Music Video
“Beauty and the Beast” features an extraordinary ensemble cast, including Emma Watson as Belle, Dan Stevens as The Beast, Luke Evans as Gaston, Kevin Kline as Maurice, Josh Gad as LeFou, Ewan McGregor as Lumière, Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, Audra McDonald as Madame de Garderobe, Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Plumette, Hattie Morahan as the enchantress and Nathan Mack as Chip with Ian McKellen as Cogsworth and Emma Thompson as Mrs. Potts.
Directed by Bill Condon and based on the 1991 animated film “Beauty and the Beast,” the screenplay is written by Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos. Alan Menken provides the score, which includes new recordings of the original songs written by Menken and Howard Ashman as well as three new songs written by Menken and Tim Rice. The film is produced by Mandeville Films’ David Hoberman, p.g.a. and Todd Lieberman, p.g.a with Jeffrey Silver, Thomas Schumacher and Don Hahn serving as executive producers.
As Condon explains, “There’s something about this story – and specifically the score, which was written 25 years ago – that is just magical, and I think that’s what still draws people in and is what makes this such a special experience.”
Thanks to the artistry and imagination of Condon and a brilliant creative team, audiences of all ages are sure to be captivated by the story’s music, adventure and romance once again.
Emma Watson as Belle in Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, a live-action adaptation of the studio’s classic animated film.
Take a look at brand new images featuring Emma Watson as Belle and Dan Stevens as the Beast from Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic and one of the most beloved tales ever told, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.
The film, which brings the story and characters audiences know and love to life in a stunning, cinematic event, is directed by Bill Condon and features an extraordinary ensemble cast which also includes Luke Evans, Kevin Kline, Josh Gad, Ewan McGregor, Stanley Tucci, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Audra McDonald, Ian McKellen and Emma Thompson.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST will be released in U.S. theaters nationwide on March 17, 2017.
The Beast (Dan Stevens) and Belle (Emma Watson) in the castle library in Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic which is a celebration of one of the most beloved stories ever told.
The mantel clock Cogsworth, the teapot Mrs. Potts, Lumiere the candelabra and the feather duster Plumette live in an enchanted castle in Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST the live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic directed by Bill Condon.
Director/co-screenwriter Bill Condon on set with Belle (Emma Watson) in Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic. The story and characters audiences know and love are brought to life in this stunning cinematic event…a celebration of one of the most beloved stories ever told.
Luke Evans stars as Gaston and Josh Gad as Le Fou in Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic directed by Bill Condon which brings the story and characters audiences know and love to life.
Gaston (Luke Evans) a handsome but arrogant brute, holds court in the village tavern in Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, directed by Bill Condon, a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic and a celebration of one of the most beloved stories ever told.
In Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic, Emma Watson stars as Belle and Kevin Kline is Maurice, Belle’s father. The story and characters audiences know and love are brought to life in this stunning cinematic event…a celebration of one of the most beloved tales ever told.
Belle (Emma Watson) in the West Wing of the Beast’s castle in Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic directed by Bill Condon which brings the story and characters audiences know and love to life.
Emma Watson is Belle in the lovely trailer for BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.
Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is a live-action re-telling of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within.
The film stars: Emma Watson as Belle; Dan Stevens as the Beast; Luke Evans as Gaston, the handsome, but shallow villager who woos Belle; Oscar winner Kevin Kline as Maurice, Belle’s eccentric, but lovable father; Josh Gad as Lefou, Gaston’s long-suffering aide-de-camp; Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, the candelabra; Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Plumette, the feather duster; six-time Tony Award® winner Audra McDonald as Madame Garderobe, the wardrobe; Oscar nominee Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and two-time Academy Award® winner Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts.
Directed by Oscar winner Bill Condon from a screenplay by TBD based on the 1991 animated film, the film is produced by Mandeville Films’ David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman with eight-time Oscar-winning composer Alan Menken, who won two Academy Awards® (Best Original Score and Best Song) for the 1991 animated film, providing the score, which will include new recordings of the original songs written by Menken and Howard Ashman, as well as several new songs written by Menken and three-time Oscar winner Tim Rice.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST will be released in U.S. theaters on March 17, 2017.
It’s familiar fodder for a comedy/drama. Y’know the story of a parent leaving the family unit in order to follow a dream. Then years later, having to return for an uncomfortable, often strained reunion that usually concludes with a big, new extended-family group hug. After a failed attempt (but sometimes successful) at acquiring fame and fortune the prodigal poppa realizes that everything he really desired was right in his back yard. We recently saw this occur in DANNY COLLINS. But this new flick does a switcheroo with that formula. This time mom flew the coop in pursuit of her passions and dreams. Meryl Streep reteams with Jonathan Demme (they remade THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE a few years ago) to tell Oscar-winning scribe Diablo Cody’s tale of, not speedster superheroes, family and rock n’ roll. Grab a brew and settle in for a solid set from RICKI AND THE FLASH.
Life’s just a-chuggin’ along for Ricki (Streep). Sure, her daytime gig ringing up over-priced groceries is a drag, but she lives for the evening hours when she takes to the stage of the Tarzana, CA watering-hole “The Salt Well” to belt out some rock anthems with her back-up band, “The Flash”. Plus, she’s got a nice “band mate with benefits” thing going on with the hunky lead guitarist Greg (Rick Springfield). Then, out of the blue, she gets the phone call. It’s from her ex-husband Pete (Kevin Kline) back in Indianapolis. Ricki, then called Linda, left him and their three kids nearly thirty years ago in order to follow her musical muse. Pete’s remarried, but second wife Maureen is caring for her ailing, faraway father, so he makes a desperate plea to Ricki. Their only daughter Julie (Mamie Gummer) is having a break-down after her hubby left her. Pete can’t get through to her, so perhaps Mom can put her back on track. Ricki hops on an East-bound flight and soon arrives at Pete’s swanky estate. After a tense reunion with Julie (lotsa’ issues between them), the ice starts to melt, just in time for another awkward get-together with Ricki’s two sons. Josh (Sebastian Stan) is engaged to the prim Emily (Hailey Gates). They make an attempt at polite small talk, but son Adam (Nick Westrate) is seething with anger. Later Ricki, Pete, and Julie bond over some medicinal herbs, but the calm is disturbed by the surprise return of the no-nonsense Maureen (Audra McDonald). The former and current spouses clash and soon Ricki’s back in CA, but things just don’t seem right (especially between her and Greg) until a mysterious package arrives in the mail. Could its contents finally inspire Linda..er..Ricki to get her non-stage act together?
Streep proves yet again to be a true force of cinematic nature, her character more than deserves top title billing. Yes, we’ve been treated to those powerfully melodic pipes before (just a few months ago actually, via INTO THE WOODS), but here she tackles all manner of modern styles, from heavy metal anthems to pop ballads, even an original acoustic number. She’s never just playing “dress-up” in her Lita Ford-style “video-vixen” fashions, Streep exudes a sultry, unforced allure. Can she still tear out our hearts? Oh yes indeed, especially as she realizes the hurt her impulsive nature instilled in her siblings. But she can win us back with her naughty cackle as she cracks wise at a beauty parlor. Plus she’s got a wonderful rapport with both of her leading men. Thirty three years after their initial pairing (in SOPHIE’S CHOICE), she and Kline have a terrific chemistry. The uptight, button-down Pete is no mere straight-man to the outrageous Ricki. Kline gives each line a distinct, wry tone, never having to mug in order to sell the joke. Springfield still makes the ladies swoon, but he reveals a real vulnerable side as a guy who wants to be more than a last-minute, late night “hook-up” (as in TRAINWRECK, the lady is leery of commitment). Oh, and the former teen heart-throb can really work that “ax’! And, of course, there are considerable sparks between Streep and her real-life daughter Gummer, whose Julie is a walking, screeching open wound who absolutely will not cut “Liiindaa” any slack, not matter how far she’s traveled to “comfort” her. Gummer’s got a keen acerbic line delivery that cuts like a cleaver. The two brothers, played by Stan (the Winter Soldier!) and Westrate make a lasting impression despite their brief screen time, as does the nervous, twitchy Gates. Though she’s absent for the film’s first half, McDonald bursts out like a charging rhino and makes an impressive verbal sparring partner for Streep (neither’s completely in the wrong or right). Laughs and tunes are provided by those other members of The Flash: Rick Rosas, Joe Vitale, and Bernie Worrell, all first class musicians. And then there’s the hysterical Ben Platt as the Salt Well’s remarkably enthusiastic bartender and Ricki’s number one “fan-atic”.
It’s a real shame that the film itself leaves this incredible ensemble adrift. The direction by the usually compelling Demme is quite pedestrian, often resembling a basic cable movie or mini-series (or home design “porn” with his loving, long pans throughout Pete’s plush Indiana digs). Plus he spends far too much time with the band on stage. The Flash performs complete tunes, when just a snippet will do. The inserts of their meager, but very appreciative “long in the tooth” groupies quickly became tiresome (oh, another silver-gray ponytail?). The meandering screenplay by Cody (I swear that’s her enthusiastically “gettin’ down” to a U2 classic at the “Well”) doesn’t help the film’s languid pacing. The first third is pretty entertaining (loved the jabs at the trendy “foods” store), but the “story train” completely left the rails soon after during a contrived confrontation inside an eatery that rings completely false. The movie seems to be spinning its wheels after Ricki’s return, perhaps in order to set up a trite “feel good” finale. I mean the old “fuddy duddies” at a big family function are horrified at hearing rock and/or roll AKA “The Devil’s Music”! Hey, they’re in their fifties and sixties…and just what did they listen to, while in their teens? I mean they’re reacting like party extras in an old Alan Freed flick! Pu-leeze! Hey, at least there’s not an “old lovers rekindling the passion” moment. Hard core Streep fans will probably have a toe-tappin’ good time, but really, RICKI AND THE FLASH is barely a flash-in-the-pan. Tip your servers and gooood night, Tarzana!!
Meryl Streep takes on a whole new gig – a hard-rocking singer/guitarist – for Oscar®-winning director Jonathan Demme and Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody in RICKI AND THE FLASH.
In an original and electrifying film loaded with live musical performances, Streep stars as Ricki Rendazzo, a guitar heroine who made a world of mistakes as she followed her dreams of rock-and-roll stardom. Returning home, Ricki gets a shot at redemption and a chance to make things right as she faces the music with her family.
Streep stars opposite her real-life daughter Mamie Gummer; Rick Springfield, portraying a Flash member in love with Ricki; Kevin Kline as Ricki’s ex-husband; and Audra McDonald as Kline’s new wife.
RICKI AND THE FLASH opens in theaters on August 7, 2015.
WAMG invites you to enter for a chance to win passes (Good for 2) to the advance screening of RICKI AND THE FLASH on MONDAY, AUGUST 3RD at 7PM in the St. Louis area.
We will contact the winners by email.
Answer the following:
Director Jonathan Demme directed Christopher Walken
in what 1982 made-for-television film?
TO ENTER, ADD YOUR NAME, ANSWER AND EMAIL IN OUR COMMENTS SECTION BELOW.
OFFICIAL RULES:
1. YOU MUST BE IN THE ST. LOUIS AREA THE DAY OF THE SCREENING.
2. A pass does not guarantee a seat at a screening. Seating is on a first-come, first served basis. The theater is overbooked to assure a full house. The theater is not responsible for overbooking.
3. No purchase necessary.
The film is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America for thematic material, brief drug content, sexuality, and language.
