bob odenkirk – We Are Movie Geeks

NOBODY 2 – Review

Regular readers of mine and other reviewers are undoubtedly familiar with the complaint about “sequel drop-off.” Follow-ups trying to cash in on the popularity of the first rarely match the magic. In fact, that phenomenon is so common that disappointing scions usually get more of a sigh of resignation than outrage. The latter is saved for lame remakes and re-boots. The superfluous re-creations of THE BISHOP’S WIFE and MR. AND MRS. SMITH come readily to mind as particularly odious. This one’s thankfully at the opposite end of the spectrum. Ain’t no drop-off to be found in NOBODY 2.

I loved NOBODY notably because of its surprise factor. Hutch (Bob Odenkirk) appears to be an ordinary suburban nebbish whose life is drab, drab, drab. Dull job; cookie-cutter cul-de-sac. An UNfunny Rodney Dangerfield on the respect scale. He’s easily pushed around by others and dismissed by his own family. That’s until someone presses the wrong button, unleashing the inner demons of a highly skilled former covert operative, akin to Jason Statham’s BEEKEEPER character. The resulting film blended high-octane action with character comedy to deliver a real hoot for viewers.

This isn’t a new premise by any means, but the aforementioned surprise factor of its “reveal” was greatly enhanced by its titular star. Odenkirk had been known for offbeat skit comedy and his sketchy Saul Goodman lawyer persona from “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul.” Nothing in his resume presaged a guy who would suddenly kick ass without bothering to take names.

Rather than just trading on unsealing the can of whoop-ass we already know exists within him, they upped the ante on the action. Big time. In the first, the inner Hutch was triggered by a home invasion. This time it’s bullies ruining the peaceful vacation he’d planned for his family (Connie Nielsen, with kids Gage Munroe and Paisley Cadorath) at a huge amusement park. That venue was picked because it was Hutch’s only childhood trip with his dad (Christopher Lloyd) and brother (RZA), and he wanted to share that joyful memory with his brood. But, much like “Wonder World” in BEVERLY HILLS COP III, beneath the noisy, colorful attractions lurks a major criminal enterprise – this one run by psycho-bitch Lendina (Sharon Stone, channeling Snow White’s evil queen with a heavy dose of Pacino’s Scarface), who blithely kills anyone who crosses her, including all innocent witnesses unlucky enough to be in the vicinity. It’s tough to top the Russian mobsters of the original, but she and her minions manage quite nicely.

As before, the film opens with a battered Hutch being interrogated by a couple of detectives wondering who he could be, and then cutting to the main story from its beginning, leading to the inevitable climactic battle that out-dazzles the warehouse shootout of the first in all respects. The heavy dose of violence is again tinged with varying degrees of comedy. This production is further boosted by a few plus factors. The family is more involved. Hutch’s struggle to just have the intended vacation despite growing obstacles, due to no fault of his own, is more emotional. And casting Colin Hanks as one of the bad guys, unlike anything we’d expect from him or his daddy, Tom, adds to the comic value.

Despite changes of writers and director, the result is just what fans of the first hoped it would be. For pure escapist fun, including bad guys gettin’ blowed up real good, NOBODY 2 is as close as you can get to a sure bet.

NOBODY 2 opens in theaters on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025.

RATING: 3.5 out of 4 stars

Win Passes To The St. Louis Advance Screening Of NOBODY 2

THIS SUMMER, NOBODY RUINS HIS VACATION! UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS BOB ODENKIRK IN NOBODY 2. RATED R.

ONLY IN THEATERS AUGUST 15TH.

The St. Louis screening is at 7PM on Tuesday on Aug 12^th at The Galleria 6 Cine. (6pm Suggested Arrival)

ENTER HERE FOR PASSES: http://gofobo.com/VoiGL05692

Please arrive early as seating is not guaranteed.

Sometimes the most dangerous place for a dad is a family vacation.

Bob Odenkirk returns as suburban husband, father and workaholic assassin Hutch Mansell in the new chapter to Nobody, the hit 2021 bare-knuckle action-thriller that opened at number one at the U.S. box office.

Four years after he inadvertently took on the Russian mob, Hutch remains $30 million in debt to the criminal organization and is working it off with an unending string of hits on international thugs.

Much as he likes the slam-bang action of his “job,” Hutch and his wife Becca (International Emmy nominee Connie Nielsen) find themselves overworked and drifting apart. So, they decide to take their kids (Gage Munroe, Paisley Cadorath) on a short getaway to Wild Bill’s Majestic Midway and Waterpark, the one and only place where Hutch and his brother Harry (Grammy and Emmy nominee RZA) went on a vacation as kids.

With Hutch’s dad (Emmy winner Christopher Lloyd) in tow, the family arrives in the small tourist town of Plummerville (“Plummerville is Summerville!”), eager for some fun in the sun.

But when a minor encounter with some town bullies yanks the family into the crosshairs of a corrupt theme-park operator (John Ortiz; Fast and Furious franchise, Bumblebee) and his shady sheriff (Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Colin Hanks), Hutch finds himself the focus of the most unhinged, blood-thirsty crime boss he (or anyone) has ever encountered (Emmy winning and Oscar® nominated screen icon, Sharon Stone).

Nobody 2 is an 87North/Eighty Two Films/Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment production, directed by Timo Tjahjanto (The Night Comes for Us, The Big 4). The screenplay is by returning writer Derek Kolstad (John Wick, Die Hart) and by Aaron Rabin (Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan), from a story by Derek Kolstad, based on characters created by Derek Kolstad.

This film’s returning producers are 87North founders Kelly McCormick (Bullet Train, The Fall Guy) and David Leitch (Bullet Train, The Fall Guy); Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment founder Marc Provissiero (No Hard Feelings, PEN15), Eighty Two Films founder Braden Aftergood (Hell or High Water, Samaritan); and Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul, Breaking Bad). The executive producer is David Hyman.

The stunt designer and coordinator is GREG REMENTER (Bullet Train, Nobody), the stunt coordinator is KYLE MCLEAN (Bullet Train, Black Adam) and the fight choreographer is KIRK JENKINS (Bullet Train, Nobody). The motorcycle driver is RICK SKENE (Nobody, The Ice Road) and the stunt rigging coordinator is NEIL ADAMS (Nobody, Violent Night).

The film’s director of photography is CALLAN GREEN ACS, NZCS (The Enforcer, The Gentlemen); the production designer is MICHAEL DINER (supervising art director Killers of the Flower Moon, art director Jurassic World: Dominion) and the costume designer is PATRICIA J. HENDERSON (Nobody, Under the Bridge). The film is edited by ELÍSABET RONALDSDÓTTIR ACE (Bullet Train, John Wick), and the music is by DOMINIC LEWIS (Bullet Train, The Fall Guy). The casting is by MARY VERNIEU CSA (Alien: Romulus, The Fall Guy) & LINSDAY GRAHAM AHANONU CSA (The Fall Guy, The Last of Us).

Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in Nobody 2, directed by Timo Tjahjanto.

Documentary About Improv Guru Del Close – FOR MADMEN ONLY Available Now on Apple TV and Altavod

Utopia is pleased to announce that FOR MADMEN ONLY, a feature documentary that places improv guru Del Close front and center, is set for release on Altavod & Apple TV in the USA and Canada on July 27th, 2021. Here’s the trailer:

Synopsis: Comedy guru Del Close, mentor to everyone from Bill Murray to Tina Fey, sets out to write his autobiography for DC Comics. As he leads us through sewers, mental wards, and his peculiar talent for making everyone famous but himself, Close emerges as a personification of the creative impulse itself. He’s a muse with BO and dirty needles, offering transcendence despite (or because of) the trail of wreckage behind him.

In this at once hilarious and poignant look at the life of the godfather of improv comedy, Del Close, Festival alum Heather Ross (Girls on The Wall) tracks the trailblazer from “human torch” sideshow act to his influential and contentious rise at The Second City, mentoring such greats as Bill Murray, John Candy, and Tina Fey, among many others. Inspired by his semi-autobiographical DC Comics anthology Wasteland, the film delves into the inner workings of Close’s wacky mind through inspired reenactments, archival clips, and interviews with such devotees as Bob Odenkirk, Tim Meadows, and Adam McKay. The result is a lively, multi-layered picture of a man and his mission, riding on the edges of genius and despair, creativity, and insanity.

Heather Ross said of her second feature documentary, “We knew that to make the definitive movie about this icon/unknown, we would need to take the same kind of creative risks that he was famous for. As someone known for breaking down genres and experimenting with form—not to mention playing fast and loose with the truth – we decided to apply the same ideas to our film and try to break new ground with the documentary genre. This resulted in constructing a set of scenes imagining the creative process behind WASTELAND, Del’s comic book autobiography.”

Danielle DiGiacomo, Head of Content for Utopia, said, “For Madmen Only is a singular film reflecting a singular man – a creative and joyful exploration of one of the lesser sung heroes in all of comedy; we at Utopia can’t wait for viewers to be taken on a much needed escape into hilarity and genius.”

FOR MADMEN ONLY premieres on Altavod & Apple TV on July 27th, 2021, with special events and screenings to be announced. Pre-Order the film HERE

Learn more about Wasteland (DC Comics) HERE

Win A VUDU Code To See NOBODY, Starring Bob Odenkirk – On Demand April 16

SEE THE MOVIE CRITICS ARE CALLING “THE MOST BADASS FILM OF THE YEAR!” “BOB ODENKIRK IS SO GOOD, IT HURTS!” UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS BOB ODENKIRK IN NOBODY. RATED R. IN THEATERS NOW.

ON DEMAND APRIL 16TH.

Sometimes the man you don’t notice is the most dangerous of all.

Emmy winner Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul, The Post, Nebraska) stars as Hutch Mansell, an underestimated and overlooked dad and husband, taking life’s indignities on the chin and never pushing back. A nobody. (Review)

https://www.uwatch.com/nobody

Enter to win a VUDU code to watch the movie.

Add you name and email address in our comments section below for a chance to win to see the film in theatres.

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When two thieves break into his suburban home one night, Hutch declines to defend himself or his family, hoping to prevent serious violence. His teenage son, Blake (Gage Munroe, The Shack), is disappointed in him and his wife, Becca (Connie Nielsen, Wonder Woman), seems to pull only further away.

The aftermath of the incident strikes a match to Hutch’s long-simmering rage, triggering dormant instincts and propelling him on a brutal path that will surface dark secrets and lethal skills. In a barrage of fists, gunfire and squealing tires, Hutch must save his family from a dangerous adversary (famed Russian actor Aleksey Serebryakov, Amazon’s McMafia)—and ensure that he will never be underestimated as a nobody again.

Nobody is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ilya Naishuller (Hardcore Henry), from a script by Derek Kolstad, the narrative architect of the John Wick franchise, and co-stars legendary Emmy winner Christopher Lloyd as Hutch’s father and multi-hyphenate musician-actor RZA as Hutch’s brother, whose own hidden talents aid Hutch in his quest for vengeance.

The film is produced by Kelly McCormick, p.g.a, and David Leitch, p.g.a., the filmmakers of Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, Deadpool 2 and Atomic Blonde, for their company 87North, by Braden Aftergood, p.g.a. (Hell or High Water, Wind River), for his Eighty Two Films, and by Bob Odenkirk and Marc Provissiero (Hulu’s PEN15) for Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment. The film is executive produced by Derek Kolstad, Marc S. Fischer, Annie Marter and Tobey Maguire.

NOBODY – Review

As most of the country enters full Spring break “status”, the studio wants to lure film fans back into the theatres with a genre that usually thrives in the warmer months, the “rock ’em, sock ’em”, ” hard” R-rated action flick. Ah, but something sets this one apart from the other “bone-crunchers” of the box office. Well, right off, from the poster and other marketing, we see it stars an actor being, to put it mildly, “cast against type” (no offense, but “The Rock”, he ain’t’). Oh, but the lead role is the vital ingredient in this new mix of thriller elements while tossing in tropes of other genres. From those comic book-inspired sagas, we get a “master of mayhem” who’s wrapped in the guise of an average joe. And, as with horror flicks, there’s lots of concern about whether his unleashed “inner beast” can be tamed once more. So basically, almost everyone initially dismisses him since, and he proclaims this to many other characters, he appears to be a real NOBODY.

The “non-entity” in the title refers to “mild-mannered” suburban husband and father “Hutch” Mansell (Bob Odenkirk). His days are pretty much routine. Hutch awakes at the same time, eats the same breakfast, always seems to just miss the garbage pick-up, then takes the bus to his nine-to-five job at a small-sized machinery shop (is it automotive, or heating equipment). After clocking out, it’s another ride home to his bored (a massive cushion between them at night in the bed they share) real estate sales agent wife Becca (Connie Nielsen), surly unimpressed teenage son Blake (Gage Munroe), and sweet, doting nine-year-old daughter Abby (Paisley Cadorath). And then, late one night, that routine is shattered. Hearing a noise, Hutch goes downstairs and stumbles upon a pair of black-clad, ski-masked home invaders. Unfortunately, they get the drop on him, but Hutch complies with their demands giving away his watch, wedding band, and a few bucks in the “petty cash” bowl. Ah, but son Blake springs into action, trying to tackle one of them as Hutch freezes. The teen is rewarded with a black eye as the duo escapes into the night. Of course, nearly everyone, co-workers, neighbors, even the police, inform Hitch that they would’ve “taken out” the crooks. But Hutch seems resigned to be the “wimp of the block” until daughter Abby tells him that her kitty-cat bracelet is gone. This flips on an inner switch, as Hutch switches gears into “revenge” mode. He pays a late-night visit to the retirement complex home of father David (Christopher Lloyd), opens a wall safe, and takes out a pistol along with a big wad of cash. Playing “detective”, he tracks the thieves down (in the scuffle Hutch saw a unique wrist tattoo), who don’t have the bracelet, but are in very “dire straights”. Hutch’s “code” will not allow him to punish them. However, a group of violent drunken thugs harassing a young woman on the bus ride back home? Well, they will certainly satisfy his “blood lust’. After emptying his gun of cartridges, he leaves them in a bloody, crumpled mess. But wouldn’t you know…one of those creeps he put in the hospital is related to the city’s most feared Russian gangster, the kingpin/ dance club-owner Yulian (Aleksey Serebryakov). When he does his own “sleuthing”, the entire Mansell family has a target on their backs. Can Hutch possibly protect them despite the return of these hidden skills from a past violent life? And does he have a “reset” button?

Of course, the subject of my earlier casting comments is Odenkirk, who displays another unforeseen “skill set’ in his talent roster. After establishing himself as a major comic talent as co-creator of the influential HBO gem “Mr. Show”, he continued in supporting roles in several other humorous movies and TV shows (he auditioned for the lead in “The Office”), until AMC-TV’s “Breaking Bad” spun-off his lawyer character for the acclaimed drama “Better Call Saul”. Yes, comedy and drama, but an action star? Fortunately Odenkirk sells it, giving the script an extra jolt with his “low-energy” everyman in the film’s opening sequences. When he peels away his timid outer shell, Odenkirk shows us that Hutch is re-vitalized as he returns to his former self. Luckily he still shows us that his love of family hasn’t been discarded, which injects an extra urgency to the story’s last act. Nielsen as wife Becca also seems to awaken from her slumber as she finds much more mystery in the man she’s been keeping at a distance so long. Lloyd is also terrific as another man wearing a “false front”, who’s happy that his boy has returned” while gleefully joining him and diving into the real chaos, after numbing himself with the phony carnage of “late show” TV Westerns. Serebryakov proves a worthy adversary as an unrestrained rabid dog whose ego will not let this little “worm” get the best of him (he inspires panic in both his enemies and allies). The great Michael Ironside (the “exploder” of SCANNERS) is the most understanding employer ever as Hutch’s long-time boss. Oh, and there’s a terrific final battle cameo role for a great music/action flick star (no spoilers from me) that helps the flick end on a high note.

The man behind HARDCORE HARRY, Ilya Naishuller directs the destruction with a deft, confident flair, shifting gears with ease from the drudgery of Hutch’s “comfy” lifestyle to the adrenaline-fueled set-pieces, in particular, the bus “beat-down”. For that he gets us inside Hutch’s head as he scopes in the enemy and the surroundings like a general hatching a battle strategy. Oh, but he’s not a super-human, as the somewhat-tipsy creeps inflect loads of damage to the “one man armada”. It helps that Odenkirk sells the pain of flexing little-used muscles. This tale combines themes from THE EQUALIZER, AMERICAN BEAUTY, and the JOHN WICK flicks (the script is from one of its creators Derek Kolstad) and produces a really original spin on the urban action genre. But at the midpoint, it veers a tad off course into a now-familiar staple with the current “go-to” baddies, the “made-men from Moscow”. I believe I literally sighed and said under my breathe “Russian mobsters, again” since I CARE A LOT was mere weeks ago. This leads to the finale that owes a bit too much to Denzel’s outing and the HOME ALONE flicks (really). Oh, but when it works in that first half, Odenkirk as the savage suburban Centurian is a sight of awesome bloody wonder. Thanks to him Hutch is most memorable and far from a NOBODY. Cross him and you’d better call Saul, right after 9-1-1.

3 Out of 4

NOBODY opens in select theatres everywhere beginning Friday, March 26, 2021

Bob Odenkirk Talks New Film NOBODY In New Featurette – In Theaters March 26

Who said you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? NOBODY

Watch how Bob Odenkirk trained for his new role in NOBODY.

Only in theaters on March 26. Get Tickets now: nobody.movie

Sometimes the man you don’t notice is the most dangerous of all.

https://www.nobody.movie/

LONG SHOT – Review

So, you’re looking for a different kind of film this weekend, maybe a light snack about the glorious super-powered feast that most of the world devoured (and is still savoring) just a few days ago. Perhaps a “rom-com” may be just the thing, maybe featuring an Oscar winner? So, who’s her co-star? How about a “hook-up” with today’s unofficial “stoner” comedy star? Why am I asking so many questions (okay, just one more)? But just where would this unlikely duo connect? The world of global politics, of course! Still, most folks would consider the chance of these two “getting busy” a very LONG SHOT But hey, anything can happen at the movies.

We first meet one half of the romantic duo, Fred Flarsky (Seth Rogen) as he finishes up some truly dangerous undercover research on an expose he’s writing for a scrappy, almost underground weekly newspaper. Ah, but his journalistic triumph is cut short when he’s informed that his paper has been bought out by right-wing media mogul Parker Wembley. Well, Fred has his integrity so he resigns despite his boss’s pleas to fire him (so he can collect unemployment). Upon hearing of this, Fred’s BFF Lance (O’Shea Jackson Jr.) insists that he treat him to a day of indulgence. Said day caps off with a performance by their fave R & B group at a fancy charity cocktail party. At that same party is the other half of said duo, Secretary of State Charlotte Field (Charlize Theron), who’s had quite a day herself. Her boss, President Chambers (Bob Odenkirk) informed her that he will not be seeking a second term. With the prodding of her aides Maggie (June Diane Raphael) and Tom (Ravi Patel), she decides to make a run at the Oval Office. Back on that fateful evening Charlotte and Fred lock eyes across the big party. She can’t place him, but he recalls her as his ideal back when she was his babysitter. She was his big unrequited “crush”. After her secret service agents bring him over, the two enjoy a reunion that’s cut short by the overbearing Wembley himself (Andy Serkis). This leads to a “viral video” moment and the two part. But Fred’s in the back of her mind, especially when Maggie and Tom tell her that the public doesn’t think she’s got much of a sense of humor. Charlotte’s read and enjoyed Fred’s articles and he’s outta’ work, so why not hire him to “punch up” her speeches? But she has to convince Fred that she will stick to her principals and not back down. She succeeds and Fred is joining them on the pre-campaign trail. Soon that long-ago attraction is rekindled. They try to keep it on the “down low”, but for how long? And can the voters possibly accept her with him?

This new work marks another success in the film career of unique star and, we can now certainly say, movie leading man Rogen. He could have made a safe comfortable living just starring in silly “weed” flicks like PINEAPPLE EXPRESS, but he’s strived to take on projects outside that “comfort zone”. Hey, he was even a superhero (though THE GREEN HORNET didn’t kick off a new franchise), has provided some cartoon voices (the family-friendly KUNG FU PANDA and MONSTERS VS. ALIENS and the not-for-kids SAUSAGE PARTY), and showed us his dramatic chops in STEVE JOBS and TAKE THIS WALTZ. Here’s he’s closer to his characters in KNOCKED UP and the NEIGHBORS flicks with some of the smarts from THE INTERVIEW. Rogen makes Flarsky more than the “doofus snags a hottie” in that he’s a determined investigator, with a strict sense of purpose and ethics that often work against his likability. Despite enjoying a “good time” Fred can be strident and close-minded, and Rogen shows us a guy that has trouble adjusting to the compromises of the “real world”. Luckily his character is guided by Theron’s strong, assured performance as Field who knows that you’ve got to “bend’ a bit, but wonders if she “gives in” too often. With Flarsky, she recalls those younger idealistic days with both joy-filled nostalgia and a touch of regret. Theron’s stunning looks draws us toward her particularly in those diplomatic dinner parties, but, as with Rogen, that can work against her, as many assume she’s doesn’t possess a sharp mind and a razor-sharp wit. And in the final act, Theron shows us how Field has been liberated by her friendship and eventual romance with Fred, generating real “heat’ even as they debate and disagree.

If the chemistry between the two leads weren’t enough, they’re surrounded by a horde of talented comic actors. Jackson is compiling quite a resume, this time giving us a street-savvy media tycoon who still like to “kick it” with his pals, and is the perfect “wing” man. Raphael is a treat as the non-nonsense b#*l-busting aide/campaign manager who tries to become a “living wall” between Fred and Charlotte while hiding her own secrets. Patel scores some chuckles as the put-upon number two in the Field team who could be pals with Fred. Randall Park has a terrific comic cameo as Fred’s understanding editor. The biggest surprise here may be Alexander Skarsgard as the handsome hunky Canadian Prime Minister (how’d they come up with that character). Though they photograph together like a dream (Joe and Jane Q. Public just eat them up like “eye” candy), the pairing of him with Field just doesn’t “click”. Beyond a casual flirt, Skarsgard is endearingly awkward as he fails at “sealing the deal”. The film’s real laugh-generator is Odenkirk whose TV actor turned politico trying to turn movie star is inspired casting. Plus he plays both “boob” (watching ad really enjoying clips of himself as the prez’ on his old TV show) and ruthless deal maker and career breaker when Field doesn’t “play nice” for his backers. The biggest of which is media magnate Wembley played with nasty troll-like glee by a nearly unrecognizable Serkis. Really, I had no idea who it was till the end credits rolled. Whether he’s using “motion capture” or, in this role, old-fashioned make-up and wigs, Serkis is one of our most gifted character actors.

Veteran comedy director Jonathan Levine (he worked with Rogen on THE NIGHT BEFORE and 50/50) keeps the pace bouncing along, avoiding the deadly “lull at the one hour mark” that crashes many comic films. He expertly uses quick edits along with slow motion to punch up the slapstick set-ups, while slowing things down for the intimate sequences that show love blossoming from the respect between the two leads. Of course, none of this would play without the whip-smart script from another comedy vet Dan Sterling (Lotsa’ TV and THE INTERVIEW) and relative newcomer Liz Hannah whose biggest credit is THE POST (this may account for some of the “insider” digs at the media and the “beltway”). They provide some great gags about the devotion to polls and surveys (Field is annoyed that her laugh and her waving”, as in saying “bye bye”, don’t “track” well). And big kudos to them for establishing early on that Charlotte is a few years older than Fred (the painfully funny flashback is a highlight). This sort of thing wouldn’t be permitted just a few years back when leading men had several decades on their romantic co-stars (still happens too much today), so bravo. They’ve combined some of the hilarity of Rogen’s “party” pics with the unlikely pairing love story of KNOCKED UP and the swooning political romance of THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT. If you’re looking for silly slapstick and smart satire then this new flick is truly no LONG SHOT.

4.5 Out of 5

INCREDIBLES 2 – Review

Finally!! Hallelujah!! It’s about time!! And some other assorted exclamations, etcetera. You animation/comic book fans know what I’m saying. The year was 2004, nine years after Pixar had turned the world of feature animation on its ear with the ground-breaking (first) TOY STORY. After breathing life into the toys, along with bugs, fish, and “bump-in-the-night” monsters, they were tackling a story that mainly consisted of human beings, No, better than “puny” humans, superheroes (to avoid copyrights on that phrase they were “supers”). THE INCREDIBLES was a box office smash, but the sequel “go ahead” was never given, it seemed. Pixar continued to bring out the hits and collect lots of Oscar gold. And several of those flicks got their follow-ups. There was a third TOY STORY (a fourth’s in the works), which may be the best of those “returns”. But fans wanted to get another romp with the Parr family. They didn’t care how Nike meet Sully in college, or how Dory got lost. Plus there were three, the original and two entries, in the CARS franchise (and it’s ‘sorta’ spin-off PLANES). There was a lot happening with the non-animated “supers”, too. Fourteen years ago, the X-Men had arrived and Tobey Maguire had webbed up the Green Goblin and Dr. Octopus as Spider-Man. Soon we’d go through the Nolan/Bale Batman trilogy, get two more Spideys, and see the rise of the Marvel Movie Universe (and a stumbling one with the DC characters, Wonder Woman excepted). The subject matter has gotten much deeper, so Pixar has gone back to that “first family of justice” with the long-awaited INCREDIBLES 2. Was it worth the wait? Well…

It begins with a quiet scene between two of the supporting characters from the original. Fade out and we’re in the thick of it, right when the first flick ended, so many years ago. Time hasn’t passed for the Incredibles as they face off against the mole-like Underminer (John Ratzenberger) right as the big school track meet has ended. Bob Parr AKA Mr. Incredible (Craig T. Nelson) and his wife Helen AKA Elastigirl (Holly Hunter) instruct their kids, teenager Violet ( Sarah Vowell) and pre-teen Dash (Huck Milner) to watch their infant sibling Jack-Jack while they stop the villain’s massive drilling tank from destroying the bank district of Municiburg. Luckily Bob’s best pal Lucius AKA Frozone (Samuel L. Jackson) lends an icy hand. Though the Underminer’s plan is thwarted, the battle has caused lots of damage. As the Parrs are arrested (“supers” are still outlawed), Frozone escapes, but is given a card by a friendly limo driver (who can the passenger be). Government “supers” liason Rick Dicker springs the Parrs and takes them to temporary digs at a local motel. But this is the last time he can help them. His division’s been cut and early retirement’s looming. .The Parr family’s spirits are lifted by a surprise visit from Lucius. Seems that the guy on that mysterious business card has a possible job for the adult trio. Donning their original uniforms, they travel to a massive estate. There they meet “super-fan of the supers”, Winston Deavor (Bob Odenkirk), who has a plan to make the public love them once more, and repeal those laws that ban the heroes. They’re joined by his tech-savy sister Evelyn (Catherine Keener), who provides a “tricked-out” motorcycle to…Helen. Winston thinks that Elastigirl is the best person to lay the groundwork for his plan. While she goes to the crime-ridden city of New Urbem, Bob will hold down the new household (a mansion courtesy of Deavor). But Mr. Incredible faces his greatest challenge as he assists Dash with his math homework, deals with Violet’s budding romance with Tony Rydinger, and discovers that baby Jack-Jack has powers. Lots of them. Meanwhile their mom has her hands full when a new super-villain, the Screenslaver, begins a campaign of crime and destruction that may lead to the end of the “supers” for all time.

The original actors slip into their roles as easily as the supers slip into their masks (those tights on the other hand….). Hunter’s Helen has most of the action/detective beats this time out, but she’s still the nurturing force that holds the family together, even as she’s tracking down Screenslaver miles away. In the original we got a taste of her hero skills, but this time she’s really propelling the story with her “flexibility”. Nelson’s Bob may be the more emotional of the two this time as he struggles to keep the kids on track, a task his tremendous strength proves of little use. At one point he comes close to a breakdown as fatigue and worry become his personal “kryptonite”. Vowell still expertly voices Violet’s conflicting emotions and desire to become her own person while “crushing hard’ on schoolmate Tony. Jackson’s still the king of cool as Lucius expands on his role as Bob’s BFF to become a surrogate uncle to the Parr brood. Though Frozone not officially an Incredible, he’s an invaluable asset to the franchise. As for the “newbies”, Milner practically pops with energy as he takes over as the impulsive, eager, and a bit bratty Dash. And then there’s the Deavors voiced by two terrific actors (kudos again to Pixar for not going for high profile pop culture “flavors” as other studios might do). Odenkirk’s a delight as the ultimate ultra-rich “fanboy” who just might be the Incredibles’ twist on the ole’ “fairy godfather” (the look of joy as he sings the heroes’ theme songs is priceless). Equally superb is the fabulous Keener who brings exactly the right touch of snark and smirk as the Deavor who quickly bonds with Helen. Oh, and where would the Incredibles be, and what would they wear, without the design diva Edna Mode, whose sneers and “dahlinks” are provided once again by the film’s multi-talented writer/director Brad Bird.

So is talented an adequate term for the impressive triple threat that is Mr. Bird? After a foray into the world of live action ( MISSION IMPOSSIBLE-GHOST PROTOCOL was one of the best entries in that series. TOMORROWLAND was…a misfire), he’s returned to deliver another exciting romp, both a satire and a satisfying ode to the “long-underwear” genre. His script is not merely a retread of the first flick, but a further exploration of family and the pros and cons of having enhanced abilities. Bird even gets in a few digs at the newer “subset” of pitting heroes against each other (as in BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE and CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR). He’s also given us a villain, who despite his terrible actions and method, has a valid critique of society. First and foremost, Bird is an expert animation craftsman and gives us some of the best acting in a film this year. I’m not talking about the vocal work, but the expressions on the characters’ faces, and how they gesture and move. In a most memorable scene, Bob goes through the gamut of emotions as he explains his sleep-deprived near-collapse and remorse over his parenting skills. Though it was computer created, it is an honest, riveting performance. Needless to say, Bird has an army of talented artists executing his vision. The design work on the new characters is dazzling, especially with a new group of international supers. There’s even a senior citizen hero whose names and powers are one of the film’s best gags (literally). Once more, the settings, cars, fashions, and props have a “retro-futuristic’ feel, much like the first Tim Burton BATMAN flicks. Yes, there are cell phones and computers, but the furniture and autos are cool 50’s and 60’s streamlined. And is anything cooler than Michael Giacchino’s big brassy score? As with the original it’s love letter to the 60’s work of the great John Barry, particularly in the thrilling finale’ that echos THUNDERBALL. The music never overwhelms, rather it enhances the film by amping up the tension and sweetening the gags. Yes, it’s very funny, especially as Jack-Jack faces his first adversary. Unlike Pixar’s last triumph COCO this flick doesn’t pummel the heartstrings, but there are scenes of great tenderness (even with Edna) between the battles and bomb blasts.

So, to answer that earlier question: Yes it’s well worth the wait! Certainly, but I hope it’s not another 14 years before we catch up with the Parr family. Here’s to another super (and superb) entertainment to follow INCREDIBLES 2 (maybe Dash could intern at Pixar)!

5 Out of 5

Bob Odenkirk, Catherine Keener, Sophia Bush, Isabella Rossellini Join The Voice Cast Of INCREDIBLES 2

Check out the “Incredibles 2” voice cast side-by-side with images of their characters—https://www.facebook.com/PixarTheIncredibles/posts/10156110003656055—and see just-released character descriptions below

HELEN PARR (voice of Holly Hunter), known in the Superworld as Elastigirl, hung up her Supersuit to raise the family with husband Bob, leaving their crime-fighting days behind them. But when she’s tapped to lead a campaign to bring the Supers back into the spotlight, she finds she can still bend, stretch and twist herself into any shape needed to solve the trickiest of mysteries. In short, she’s still got it. That’s good news, too, because a new villain is emerging—unlike any they’ve ever seen before.

BOB PARR (voice of Craig T. Nelson) cherishes his days as Mr. Incredible—a popular Super with mega-strength and the power to singlehandedly take out the bad guys. Ever since Supers were outlawed, Bob’s been mostly lying low, raising the family alongside his wife Helen. But when she’s called on to stretch her Super skills and hopefully change the public perception of Supers for the better, Bob must manage the household on his own, which calls for a completely different set of super powers.

VIOLET PARR (voice of Sarah Vowell), the firstborn of the Parr clan, is an introverted and intelligent 14-year-old teen that doesn’t quite fit in with the normal crowd. Socially awkward, outspoken and sarcastic, Violet plays her teenager role to perfection—all while secretly mastering her superpowers of invisibility and creating force fields. A Super at heart, Violet can’t help her urge to fight crime alongside her family.

DASHIELL PARR (voice of Huckleberry “Huck” Milner) is a 10-year-old boy—restless, relentless, curious—though his remarkable power of Super speed certainly sets him apart. Dash sports a hearty sense of adventure and a boundless supply of energy. He’d love nothing more than to show off his special skills and fight a few bad guys along the way—and doesn’t understand why he has to keep his powers a secret.

JACK-JACK PARR, the baby of the family, likes to sit back with a bottle and a good story. Well-versed in gibberish with a penchant for throwing food, Jack-Jack may seem like a typical toddler, but he just might turn out to be the most powerful Parr in the household—if only his family had a clue of what this kid can really do.

LUCIUS BEST (voice of Samuel L. Jackson) is not only Bob’s best friend, he’s a fellow-former Super who’s so chill, he can make ice with the point of a finger. But even when he’s not fighting crime as Frozone, Lucius is all about style. He has a quick wit and a cool, can-do attitude—and he wouldn’t think twice about breaking out his Supersuit if it could help bring Supers out of hiding.

EDNA “E” MODE (voice of Brad Bird) possesses impeccable design sense, a keen understanding of cutting-edge technology and an unmatched skillset. A creative visionary, she longs for the return of Supers so she can once again create functional yet edgy Supersuits. The petite and powerful fashionista treats her clients like family, dahling, but sticks firmly to her long-held assertion: No capes!

WINSTON DEAVOR (voice of Bob Odenkirk) leads a world-class telecommunications company alongside his genius sister, Evelyn. Ultra-wealthy, savvy and suave, Winston goes big in everything he does—including his infatuation with Supers. He has been a supporter of Supers returning—all he needs is a hero (or three) to help him change public perception and bring them back into the sunlight.

EVELYN DEAVOR (voice of Catherine Keener), the brilliant brainchild behind her brother Winston’s telecommunications company, knows her way around tech. She loves tinkering with tech, and has never met a problem she can’t solve.

RICK DICKER (voice of Jonathan Banks) heads up the official Super Relocation Program, helping the Parr family keep their Super identities secret—that’s no easy feat with this family. But Rick takes his job very seriously—at least until his division is shuttered, leaving the Parrs all on their own.

VOYD (voice of Sophia Bush) is a young, overeager “wannabe” Super and a mega-fan of Elastigirl. Her superpower is the ability to divert and manipulate objects around her by creating voids that allow the objects to appear and disappear, and shift in space.

The Supers find an advocate in a dignified foreign AMBASSADOR (voice of Isabella Rossellini) who is committed to the support and legalization of Superheroes.

Everyone’s favorite family of superheroes is back in “Incredibles 2” – but this time Helen (voice of Holly Hunter) is in the spotlight, leaving Bob (voice of Craig T. Nelson) at home with Violet (voice of Sarah Vowell) and Dash (voice of Huck Milner) to navigate the day-to-day heroics of “normal” life. It’s a tough transition for everyone, made tougher by the fact that the family is still unaware of baby Jack-Jack’s emerging superpowers. When a new villain hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot, the family and Frozone (voice of Samuel L. Jackson) must find a way to work together again—which is easier said than done, even when they’re all Incredible.

Directed by Brad Bird (“Iron Giant,” “The Incredibles”) and produced by John Walker (“The Incredibles”) and Nicole Grindle (“Sanjay’s Super Team” short, “Toy Story 3” associate producer), “Incredibles 2” busts into theaters on June 15, 2018.

Website: http://disney.com/incredibles2

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DisneyPixar

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PixarTheIncredibles/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/disneypixar

Instagram: https://instagram.com/pixar

©2018 Disney•Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

Meryl Streep And Tom Hanks Headline New Trailer In Steven Spielberg’s Oscar Hopeful THE POST

Opening during awards season on December 22 is the much anticipated THE POST from 20th Century Fox.

Steven Spielberg directs Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks in THE POST, a thrilling drama about the unlikely partnership between The Washington Post’s Katharine Graham (Streep), the first female publisher of a major American newspaper, and editor Ben Bradlee (Hanks), as they race to catch up with The New York Times to expose a massive cover-up of government secrets that spanned three decades and four U.S. Presidents. The two must overcome their differences as they risk their careers – and their very freedom – to help bring long-buried truths to light.

THE POST marks the first time Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg have collaborated on a project. Streep has been nominated for 20 Academy Awards, winning three Oscars (THE IRON LADY, SOPHIE’S CHOICE and KRAMER VS. KRAMER), while Hanks has been nominated 5 times and garnered two back to back Oscars for PHILADELPHIA and FORREST GUMP.

In addition to directing, Spielberg produces along with Amy Pascal and Kristie Macosko Krieger. The script was written by Liz Hannah and Josh Singer, and the film features an acclaimed ensemble cast including Alison Brie, Carrie Coon, David Cross, Bruce Greenwood, Tracy Letts, Bob Odenkirk, Sarah Paulson, Jesse Plemons, Matthew Rhys, Michael Stuhlbarg, Bradley Whitford and Zach Woods.

THE POST will be released in select theaters on December 22, 2017 and in theaters everywhere on January 12, 2018. Fox’s other BIG Oscar hopeful, opening on December 20th, is THE GREATEST SHOWMAN which stars Hugh Jackman as P.T. Barnum.

Check out the official site foxmovies.com/movies/the-post

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