Tag: jennifer lopez

UNSTOPPABLE – Review

A scene from UNSTOPPABLE. Courtesy of Amazon MGM

Generally, sports films aren’t for me but UNSTOPPABLE is an exception, because this remarkable true story is more that an inspiring sport film but also a true story of human character, strength and determination, and even love and family. It is more than it seems at first. The true story of champion wrestler Anthony Robles, born with only one leg but with an unstoppable drive to succeed in the sport he loves, is inspiring but so is the personal story that goes with it. Robles faced a lot of challenges from the start but had one stroke of really good luck of having a supportive, loving parent in his teenaged mother. Actually, UNSTOPPABLE is not really about sports (although it does have impressive wrestling scenes), but about human courage and drive, and well, heart.

Anthony Robles faces challenges beyond just having been born with one leg, and dealing with the obstacles that creates for his athletic dreams. Anthony and his mother, and all his younger siblings form a loving Latino family but they barely scrapping by financially and things are made more precarious and complex by his mother’s unreliable, bossy husband.

The film tells two emotionally powerful true stories, the sports one and the family one, in parallel, creating a uniquely uplifting and universal human story, both inspiring in its refusal to quit and its capacity for love. UNSTOPPABLE sports an impressive cast, with Jharrel Jerome as Robles, supported by Jennifer Lopez, Don Cheadle, Bobby Cannavale, Michael Pena, and even the real Anthony Robles in wrestling scenes that blend him and the young actor playing him, in an startlingly effective FX.

The film shows Anthony Robles as more than a remarkable athlete but a person of remarkable inner strength, character, and kindness, while still being a fearsome fighter on the wrestling mat. It is inspiring but all done without a false note or sentimentality.

Jharrel Jerome plays Anthony Robles who we meet as a high schooler, a star wrestler with dreams of college, and the oldest child in a large Hispanic family that is barely scraping by financially. Jennifer Lopez plays his mother Judy, the rock holding the family together. Judy had Anthony when she was only 16 and mother and son are exceptionally close, and in many ways, Anthony is her rock as well as the source of her hopes. Bobby Cannavale plays Judy’s husband Rick, Antony’s stepdad and the father of his younger siblings. While Rick can be fun and entertaining, he can also be demanding and critical, particularly towards Anthony. The younger kids all look up to Anthony, and depend on him and their mother, while their loud-mouthed dad bosses everyone around. Worse, Rick likes to drink, is unreliable and has trouble holding a job, putting even more on Judy. Things don’t get better as the story unfolds.

Anthony dreams of becoming a NCAA champ but he is turned down by his first choice college, University of Iowa, which is widely considered to have the best wrestling program in the country. The coach quickly dismisses Anthony from consideration, feeling he is too big a gamble for a program already on top. His other top-pick colleges also pass him over. Although Drexel offers him a scholarship, he decides to go to Arizona State University, so he can stay home and help his mom. When he later goes to the mat against a top-seeded wrestler from University of Iowa, it’s time for some pay back.

The two threads of Anthony’s life are told in tandem, sometimes seems to mirror each other, but it is like two stories, with Anthony often the only connection. While UNSTOPPABLE has the usual basic outlines of any fact-based sports story, the personal one that is told long side it gives it an extra depth, and human connection.

The excellent wrestling scenes deserve special mention, as the FX are impressive, even if you are not a wrestling fan (which I am not). The real Anthony Robles appears in the wrestling scenes, where the film uses camera work, special effects and editing to merge him with the young actor Jharrel Jerome. The effect is seamless and fascinating. Watching Robles turn the tables on opponents by wrestling on his own terms is quite something, and you get a real sense of why some opponents complained that having one less leg to grab was actually to Robles advantage, as wily, flexible Robles slips away from their grasp. The scenes are quite thrilling, and satisfying, to watch, after Robles faces such dismissive treatment by some coaches or opponents.

The cast is superb in both these story lines, as is the storytelling from Oscar-winning film editor-turned-director William Goldenberg. As Anthony, Jharrel Jerome is in nearly every scene, and worked hard to build up his upper body muscle mass, master Anthony’s Arizona accent, his smooth movements on the crutches Anthony used all his life and, importantly, his wrestling moves, so fans of the sport would feel they were watching the real thing. Jennifer Lopez is excellent as his mother Judy, a complex character who is more than just a support for her son, but someone with her own issues. While Bobby Cannavale could easily made Rick a one-note villain, he makes him a more complicated character, haunted in his own way but with misplaced anger taken out on the family.

Fortunately for Anthony, his high school coach Bobby Williams is more of a father figure. Michael Pena is a steady rock as the high school coach, who stays involved even after his young friend goes on to college. Don Cheadle, as always, is excellent as Arizona State wrestling coach Shawn Charles, coming across at first as a hard-nosed, even unfeeling, but gradually softening as he learns the depths of this young wrestler’s inner (and outer) strengths. Michael Pena is steady rock as Anthony’s high school coach who still has his young friend’s back as he goes on to college.

Unable to get a wrestling scholarship, Anthony also takes a job on top of everything else, as a cleaner at the airport, where he wins over everyone on the crew with is positive nature and work ethic.

What Anthony is doing as he pursues his wrestling dreams and what he copes with at home are both enormous challenges – and to have to juggle them at the same time, and successfully, is more than you would think anyone could do. Yet that show of strength and character is exactly why this is such a great true story. If you feel in need for a little break and uplift from depressing news, this well-made, true-story drama can be just the tonic.

UNSTOPPABLE debuts streaming on Prime Video on Thursday, Jan 16.

RATING: 2.5 out of 4 stars

Win Passes To The St. Louis Advance Screening Of THIS IS ME…NOW: A LOVE STORY

THIS IS ME…NOW: A LOVE STORY is like nothing you’ve ever seen from Jennifer Lopez.

Alongside director Dave Meyers, Jennifer has created a narrative-driven cinematic odyssey, steeped in mythological storytelling and personal healing. Dropping in tandem with her first studio album in a decade, this genre-bending Amazon original showcases her journey to love through her own eyes. With fantastical costumes, breathtaking choreography, and star-studded cameos, this panorama is an introspective retrospective of Jennifer’s resilient heart.

THIS IS ME…NOW: A LOVE STORY will stream exclusively on Prime Video on Friday, February 16th.

The St. Louis advance screening is Tuesday, February 13th, 7pm at Marcus Ronnies Cine. All attendees will receive a free small popcorn and soda. 

Please arrive early as seating is not guaranteed.

Enter at the link: https://amazonscreenings.com/WAMGthisismenow

Say “I Do” to Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson in MARRY ME – Now Available on Blu-ray and DVD

SAY “I DO” TO THE REIGNING QUEEN OF ROM-COMS JENNIFER LOPEZ AND OWN THE YEAR’S MOST ENGAGING FILM WITH EIGHT DELETED SCENES, A GAG REEL AND MORE SPECIAL FEATURES.

Jennifer Lopez is back as the “reigning queen of romcoms” (David Sims, The Atlantic) in MARRY ME, is available for the very first time from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Earning a resounding 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, it is now time to “believe in love” (Kate Walsh, Los Angeles Times) with this year’s most delightfully romantic film featuring Owen Wilson and original music by Jennifer Lopez and Latin music megastar Maluma. Enjoy more of the film’s lovable charm with exclusive never-before-seen bonus content including deleted scenes, gag reel, and a look behind the scenes with actress and producer Jennifer Lopez for the perfect movie date night.

A heartbroken pop star (Jennifer Lopez), slated to marry her pop star fiancé (Maluma) on stage, instead marries a stranger from the audience – a high school math teacher (Owen Wilson). Against the odds, their relationship develops into something real…but can their love survive the limelight?

The film is directed by Kat Coiro (FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Netflix’s Dead to Me), and stars Jennifer Lopez (Hustlers, Maid in Manhattan), Owen Wilson (Wedding Crashers), Maluma (Global music megastar), John Bradley (“Game of Thrones”), Sarah Silverman (Wreck-It Ralph Breaks the Internet) and Chloe Coleman(Big Little Lies). The film is written by John Rogers (TNT’s The Librarians) & Tami Sagher (NBC’s 30 Rock), Harper Dill (Fox’s The Mick).

BONUS FEATURES on DIGITAL,  BLU-RAYTM AND DVD for your collection:

  • DELETED SCENES
    • It’s Coming Together
    • Plotting the Future
    • Is Everyone Happy?
    • Come to the Concert
    • What Am I Doing Here?
    • You’re Married!
    • Having Fun at the Dance
    • Flight Status
  • GAG REEL
  • JENNIFER UNVEILED – Using raw, of-the-moment, b-roll shot on set throughout production, this piece will give audiences unprecedented access behind the scenes, showcasing close-up, intimate footage of Jennifer Lopez – actress and producer.
  • BEHIND THE CAMERA: THE MAKING OF MARRY ME – Glitz, glamor, romance and music. Go behind the scenes in this making-of, for an up-close look at how powerhouse performer Jennifer Lopez and all-star director Kat Coiro are teaming up to put the swoon back on the big screen.
  • TURN IT UP: THE MUSIC OF MARRY ME – Go inside the process with both J.Lo and Maluma as we discover what they wanted these songs to achieve, the stories and meanings behind them, and how they collaborated though countries apart.
  • LIVE AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN – To create a fictional, epic, on-stage moment between Kat Valdez and Bastian, the production of Marry Me pulled off a REAL epic on stage moment between Jennifer Lopez and Maluma. Surprising a massive real-world audience of Maluma’s at Madison Square Garden, Jennifer Lopez joined him on stage for one of the film’s most powerful numbers. As we head backstage, we’ll not only reveal how they pulled off such an exciting surprise, we’ll also get an up-close look at international pop star Maluma.
  • MARRIED WITH STYLE – Complete with eye-catching musical numbers, the nuptials of Kat and Bastian was meant to bring the house down IN STYLE! Now, visit Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City as the team behind this magical moment that could have been, breaks it down for us.
  • “ON MY WAY” LYRIC VIDEO
  • FEATURE COMMENTARY – With Director Kat Coiro and Producer Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas

MARRY ME – Review

(from left) Kat Valdez (Jennifer Lopez) and Charlie Gilbert (Owen Wilson) in Marry Me, directed by Kat Coiro.

So you didn’t think that I WANT YOU BACK would be the only “rom-com” feature dropping on this pre-Valentine’s Day weekend? Did you? I mean there’s got to be one to play the multiplexes since the other flick is only streaming (well, this one’s doing both actually), right? Oh, and this new release is the long-awaited return to the genre by the multi-talented (all manner of media, really) star that some have dubbed (heard it on one of the morning TV chat shows just the other day) “the patron saint of rom-coms”. Now don’t expect her to be a demure passive heroine this time out. Her demands and agenda pretty much boil down to two words: MARRY ME (Imagine the length of that queue, yeesh).

The lady with that simple request is worldwide pop sensation Kat Valdez (Jennifer Lopez). Her decades-long popularity has gotten a big “bump” recently with her very public romance with “up and coming ” crooner Bastian (Maluma). They’ve got a duet that’s at the top of the charts, “Marry Me”, and actually plan on tieing the knot at the conclusion of their joint concert spectacular (beamed around the globe, of course) at NYC’s Madison Square Garden. Miles away from the whirlwind of planning and “prep”, middle school math teacher and divorced dad Charlie Gilbert (Owen Wilson) is taking his pre-teen daughter Lou (Chloe Coleman) to school (he works there, she attends). Naturally, she wants to distance herself from him, upcoming her “coolness cred”. In between classes, guidance counselor and pal Parker Debbs (Sarah Silverman) tells Charlie that she now has two extra tickets to the sold-out Kat and Bastian concert (her ex-girlfriend and her new GF bailed). Charlie reluctantly agrees in order to impress Lou. But things don’t quite go as planned at the big multi-media event. Minutes before the nuptials, as Kat dons her sparkly wedding gown, Page Six drops a big scandal on their website, complete with a “hidden camera” video. A stunned and shocked Kat silences the orchestra and addresses the audience. As she scans the crowd she spots Charlie holding Lou’s makeshift poster board that says “Marry Me”. Kat beckons him to the stage. The wedding will go on, but with a new groom. Concerned about Kat’s state of mind, Charlie agrees and the two exchange “I do’s”. Backstage the pair, go their separate ways, with Kat’s flabbergasted manager Collin (John Bradley) insisting that he will have it all annulled within hours and monetarily compensate Charlie. But Kat’s got other ideas after a brief conversation with Charlie generates sparks. Could this impromptu gesture actually turn into something? But can their very different worlds mesh?

That “patron saint’ is Lopez of course, who seems to be taking somewhat of a career “backstep”, as this is her first feature since her lauded bravada turn three years ago as the “stripper pole queen” of HUSTLERS. At least Kat is a bit closer to her own ‘perceived’ persona, a “meta skewing’ of the publicity chaos that appears to surround her 24/7. Still, she brings a real change to the character as she emerges from the “bubble” and learns to “walk amongst the mortals” and truly connect. That main “mortal man” is the always charming Wilson who still has that affable everyman vibe (guessing if the flick was made 75 years ago, Jimmy Stewart would “aw shucks” he way with it). His Charlie bonds with everyone, especially his “math team”, but Wilson still gives him a wry attitude as he makes subtle digs at the “superstar” life. Rounding out this unlikely “love triangle” is Bastian played by Columbian heartthrob Maluma in his big feature film debut (though we can hear him in ENCANTO). He earns kudos for playing up all the “diva arrogance’ as he practically spits venom at Charlie as he tries to slither his way back to Kat. Also scoring is Ms. Coleman who is endearing as Charlie’s daughter trying to “find her own way” while still needing her daddy. The film is really packed with many of the best comic actors, but their “edges” are somewhat “smoothed” for this mass-audience entertainment. Stand-up star Michelle Buteau buzzes about as Kat’s viral-obsessed aide, while Utkarsh Ambudkar sneers and jeers as a rival math team coach. But the biggest “missed-op” is Silverman as Parker a “gender-switched” take on the rom-com cliche of the heroine’s ultra-supportive gay BFF or next-door neighbor. Her dangerous on-stage bawdy snark is neutered as the school staffer/ wannabe rep for Charlie. Perhaps she hopes to “expand the brand’, but her role here feels toothless. Oh well, at least there’s Jimmy Fallon bucking his “nice guy” image for a more surly prickly twist on his late-night TV gig.

The whole film hinges on the whole premise taken from some of the recent cable-TV “mating shows’ (with titles like “Married at First Sight”, “Love is Blind”, etc.). For most of us (well, me) the whole “plucking from the crowd” thing comes off as ludicrous in the extreme. Perhaps it worked better in the original graphic novel or webcomic (okay, a comic book) by Bobby Crosby which couldn’t quite gel in the screen adaptation by Harper Dill, John Rogers, and Tami Sanger. The concert finale is meant to be Kat’s on-stage meltdown, but her competent compassionate manager Collin (played warmly by Bradley) would’ve pulled the plug on it. We get a hint of the crazed paparazzi-fueled frenzy, but it’s more a mild annoyance. Director Kat Corio does her best with the material, but we can predict the relationship roadmap proceeding along the usual route to its inevitable destination. The leads are likable enough, but the whole thing feels too cloying and cutesy. If that weren’t enough we’re almost suffocated by the “synergy”. Scenes are built around different parts of the Universal media family. Aside from Fallon, NBC Today provides a constant “Greek chorus” along with Telemundo. Enough with the Tie-ins”!Perhaps this was intended as a 25th-anniversary reunion of the two stars (ANACONDA was way back in 1997), but only the most fervent rom-com fanatic will get anything from this wobbly wonky gender-spin on PRETTY WOMAN (with some NOTTING HILL tossed in). Better to stream those gems rather than endure the dreary by-the-numbers MARRY ME.

1 Out of 4

MARRY ME opens in theatres everywhere and streams exclusively on Peacock beginning on Friday, February 11, 2022

MARRY ME: Fandango Ticket Giveaway

THIS VALENTINE’S DAY JUST SAY YES!  UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS JENNIFER LOPEZ, OWEN WILSON AND MALUMA IN MARRY ME.  RATED PG-13.  IN THEATERS AND STREAMING ONLY ON PEACOCK FEBRUARY 11TH.  SAVE THE DATE!

Enter to win a Fandango Code good for 2 tickets to see MARRY ME in Theaters.

Leave your name and email in our comments section below. No purchase necessary.

https://www.marryme.movie/

In Universal Pictures’ Marry Me, Jennifer Lopez plays global superstar Kat Valdez, a role that was deeply personal for her. Here, Lopez takes you behind the veil of what celebrity life is really like and discusses how her own experiences shaped her character. Marry Me, directed by Kat Coiro, arrives in theaters and streaming only on Peacock this Valentine’s Day.

Packed with original songs by Jennifer Lopez and global Latin music star Maluma, Marry Me arrives next Valentine’s Day with Lopez starring as musical superstar Kat Valdez and Owen Wilson as Charlie Gilbert, a math teacher—total strangers who agree to marry and then get to know each other. An unlikely romance about two different people searching for something real in a world where value is based on likes and followers, Marry Me is a modern love story about celebrity, marriage and social media.

Kat Valdez (Lopez) is half of the sexiest celebrity power couple on Earth with hot new music supernova Bastian (Maluma, making his feature-film debut). As Kat and Bastian’s inescapable hit single, “Marry Me,” climbs the charts, they are about to be wed before an audience of their fans in a ceremony that will be streamed across multiple platforms.

Divorced high-school math teacher Charlie Gilbert (Owen Wilson) has been dragged to the concert by his daughter Lou (Chloe Coleman, Big Little Lies) and his best friend (Sarah Silverman). When Kat learns, seconds before the ceremony, that Bastian has cheated on her with her assistant, her life turns left as she has a meltdown on stage, questioning love, truth and loyalty. As her gossamer world falls away, she locks eyes with a stranger—a face in the crowd.

If what you know lets you down, then perhaps what you don’t know is the answer, and so, in a moment of inspired insanity, Kat chooses to marry Charlie. What begins as an impulsive reaction evolves into an unexpected romance. But as forces conspire to separate them, the universal question arises: Can two people from such different worlds bridge the gulf between them and build a place where they both belong?

The film also stars John Bradley (Game of Thrones), Michelle Buteau (Michelle Buteau: Welcome to Buteaupia) and Utkarsh Ambudkar (Mulan).

Marry Me is directed by Kat Coiro (Dead to Me, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, upcoming She-Hulk) from a screenplay by John Rogers (The Librarians) and Tami Sagher (NBC’s 30 Rock) and Harper Dill (The Mick) based on the graphic novel by Bobby Crosby. The film is produced by Jennifer Lopez p.g.a. and Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas p.g.a. (Hustlers, Maid in Manhattan) for Lopez’s Nuyorican Productions, by John Rogers for Kung Fu Monkey Productions and by Benny Medina (Hustlers, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air). The film’s executive producers are Alex Brown, Willie Mercer, Pamela Thur and J.B. Roberts.

In Theaters February 11, 2022

(from left) Charlie Gilbert (Owen Wilson) and Kat Valdez (Jennifer Lopez) in Marry Me, directed by Kat Coiro.

Jennifer Lopez as SELENA Available on Blu-ray From Warner Archive

Jennifer Lopez as SELENA is now available on Blu-ray From Warner Archive. Ordering information can be found HERE

The nuts and bolts of the irresistibly danceable music called Tejano are pop, rock, polka, R&B and Latin influences. To millions of fans, there’s another vital ingredient: the dynamic singer Selena. Selena is the vibrant story of the Grammy®-winning singer whose life ended at its creative peak. Pulsating with Selena’s voice on the soundtrack, the film is bracingly authentic. In the title role, Jennifer Lopez powerfully captures the warmth and electricity of a beloved entertainer. Edward James Olmos, Jon Seda and others also shine in “a poignant, heartwarming movie that deserves a standing ovation” (Jules Peimer, WKDM-RADIO/NEW YORK).

The triumph and tragedy of the life of the Queen of Tejano Music, Selena Quintanilla, are depicted in this vibrant biopic from director Gregory Nava and overseen by Selena’s father/manager Abraham, that launched the career of another superstar, Jennifer Lopez. Lopez stars along with the legendary Edward James Olmos (as Abraham) in this cinema celebration of the girl from South Texas with global talent, incredible will and magnetic charm. The film wisely and sensitively chooses to focus on Selena’s life, struggles and astonishing abilities to weave pop, rock, polka, R&B and Latin music into a crossover phenomenon that forever changed the course of popular music. The film gets its long overdue royal treatment on this stunning Blu-ray with highly defined audio as well as visuals, as is only proper. Jon Seda co-stars. Viewable as either Original Theatrical Version or Extended Cut! Special Features: Documentary “Selena, Queen of Tejano”; Making of Selena: 10 Years Later; Outtakes; Theatrical Trailer (HD) 16×9 Letterbox

HUSTLERS – Review

So, are movie audiences ready for another flick about good looking women being very, very bad? Well, not as bad say as the ladies of THE KITCHEN. Nobody’s getting whacked or having their legs broken. The dudes in this romp do wake up with some major hangovers (physical and financial). Now don’t get this confused with this past Summer’s similarly-titled THE HUSTLE. This new flick has no wacky slapstick hi-jinks. And it’s based an original story, a magazine article, while the former was a remake…of a remake, showing us that “third time’ was definitely not “the charm”. And instead of the swanky hotels and casinos on the French Rivera, we see the inner working of an NYC “high-end” “gentleman’s club”. The “entertainers’ that work there desperately want to leave the “life”. But they’ve got to be more than “classy exotic dancers’, these ladies have to be HUSTLERS.


In the story’s opening moments, way back in 2007, the focus is on a new dancer at the Manhatten club “Moves”: Dorothy AKA Destiny (Constance Wu). After working long hours, usually inviting men for “lap dances” in the private backrooms, she splits the tips with the “backstage” men, then returns to the home she shares with her Grandam (Wai Ching Ho), wakes up at 3 PM, and begins the (literal) grind once more. “D” simply has to increase her revenue. Then she witnesses a performance by the club’s grand diva, Ramona (Jennifer Lopez). Her athletic “pole” work leaves the stage covered in cash. Later D asks her for advice, and soon they’re meeting early at Moves for training, with some help from another “star”, the dazzling Diamond (Cardi B). In those coming “golden” months, “R and D’ become a dynamic duo working the rich brokers and bankers into a spending frenzy. But the party’s over with the big financial “crash” of Fall, 2008. Destiny acquires a boyfriend, gets pregnant, leaves Moves, has a baby girl, and loses the guy. She fails at getting any “straight” work, so it’s back to the club. But it’s a near ghost town, with gorgeous Russian immigres now performing (and giving more than lap dances in the back). Then Romana walks back in and offers Destiny a new oppurtunity, a scam she calls “fishing”. They hang out at ritzy hotel bars and restaurants looking for a wealthy “mark”, zeroing in on his shoes, watch, and rings. One member of the group joins him until her ‘sisters’ just “drop by”. After getting him drunk, they take him back to Moves (the club gets a “cut”) and they precede to “rack up” a charge card tab for thousands (the guys are too ashamed to do anything about it). The duo becomes a quartet with club vet Mercedes (Kiki Palmer) and the novice Annabelle (Lilli Reinhart). They do well, but the whole night’s taking too long for Romana, so she concocts a drug mixture to spike the drink and loosens up the guys in hurry. Greed kicks in as new girls are recruited and the “Mickey Finn” is strengthened. Just how long can they keep the ‘gravy train” running until something goes wrong and “5-0” steps in?

Despite the recent press junket “kerfuffle”, yes Ms. Wu’s Destiny is indeed the story’s main focus with her on-screen a good 90% of the flick’s running time. As with last year’s surprise smash CRAZY RICH ASIANS, she carries the lead role with great agility. Destiny runs the gamut of emotions, and, of the “crew”, garners the most sympathy. We see her barely able to walk forward in the flashy high heels, pushing herself to just make it to dawn. She has a determined hunger and a yearning. A yearning for a better life for herself and her family, perhaps a bigger need for the mother she never knew. That aching desire is eased by the film’s “bigger than life” star performance, that of Lopez as the club’s “Queen B” Romana. It begins with one of this year’s greatest screen entrances, as she glides on stage as though a goddess descending from Mount Olympus via a golden pole, granting every man’s desire to rid himself of his filthy lucre. Destiny is drawn to her as a moth to a flame, cooled by the finest furs. It’s nearly impossible to shift our gaze from Lopez, as she begins her grooming and seduction of Wu. Romana is one tough taskmaster as she mentors D on the finer points of “stagecraft”, and later as she acts as “big sister’ to the gobsmacked guests in the back. But Lopez is not all “fairy fabulous godmother”, as we see her ruthless inner mastermind come into play, making D furious as she turns her attention to new “talent”. Speaking of talent, Lopez reminds us of her considerable gifts after being a “tabloid” (or maybe “TMZ) staple for too long, nearly being swallowed whole in ridiculous “rom-com” quicksand. I tried to recall the last time she was this compelling on-screen, until another reviewer mentioned OUT OF SIGHT, from more than 20 years ago. She’s a true force of nature here, and the main reason to see this film. Plus she gets great comic support from the other members of the “sista'” quartet. Palmer gives a bubbly funny performance as Mercedes, while Reinhart exudes both innocence and sensuality as the “fast learning” Annabelle, reminding us of the joyous spirit of the late, much-missed Britanny Murphy (just a shame her character spends a third of her screen time barfing…a tired running gag). Added to the mix is Julia Stiles (where have ya’ been) as the “after the facts” reporter who serves as an audience surrogate.

Director Lorene Scafaria (who also adapted Jessica Pressler’s magazine article for the screenplay) really captures the feeling of female friendship and support in those early scenes at the club. For instance, when Liz (played by singer Lizzo) announces to the ladies that a (real life) celebrity has just walked in, they make a quick dash from the dressing room to the stage, as though a fire alarm went off. Those little anecdotes are entertaining, especially as Ramona acts as Jedi master Qui-Gon Jinn to Destiny’s Obi-Wan. The light-hearted tone gets a bit darker as they “fish”. But the pace completely stalls out as the ladies do the PRETTY WOMAN-style shopping montages. Then the story’s train derails with a Christmas party sequence that desperately needed another pass or two by the editor (the flick’s a good 15 minutes too long). It lessens the impact of the even darker third act when it’s time to “pay the piper”. That’s when we get to see the vicious side of Ramona, ripping the phone away from Destiny as she listens to the desperate pleas of the patsy that will hasten their reckoning. The marketers are selling this as a breezy “con job” comedy, but that scene is a true heartbreaker. The same goes for the final fade-out, an emotional “gut punch” that really tugs at the ticker. It’s just a shame that the sluggish over-indulgent midsection dilutes its impact (and was all that smoking needed). But it doesn’t take away from the terrific work of Lopez. She’s the main reason you should spend some time at the multiplex with these HUSTLERS.

2 Out of 4

Win Free Passes To The St. Louis Advance Screening Of HUSTLERS Starring Jennifer Lopez, Constane Wu and Cardi B

HUSTLERS follows a crew of savvy former strip club employees who band together to turn the tables on their Wall Street clients. The film is inspired by the article published by New York Magazine entitled “The Hustlers at Scores” written by Jessica Pressler.

Stars Constance Wu, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Stiles, Keke Palmer, Lili Reinhart, Lizzo, and Cardi B.

Written and directed by Lorene Scafaria, HUSTLERS opens in theaters from STXfilms September 13, 2019.

Enter for your chance to win two free passes to the St. Louis advance screening of HUSTLERS. The theatrical sneak preview will be on September 11 at 7pm.

Leave your name and email address in our comments section below.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.  Limit one (1), up to an admit-two pass per person, while supplies last. Seating is available on a first-come, first served basis.  Employees of all promotional partners and their agencies are not eligible.  Void where prohibited.  SEATING IS LIMITED, SO ARRIVE EARLY.  PASS DOES NOT GUARANTEE A SEAT AT THE SCREENING.  Refer to screening pass for further restrictions.

https://www.hustlers.movie/

Constance Wu and Jennifer Lopez star in HUSTLERS

WAMG Giveaway – Win Jennifer Lopez in SECOND ACT on Blu-ray Combo Pack

Jennifer Lopez (Maid in Manhattan, “Shades of Blue”) returns to the big screen and proves it’s never too late to pursue your dreams in the hilarious and relatable romantic comedy, Second Act, coming to Digital on March 12, 2019 and on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and On Demand on March 26, 2019 from STXfilms and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. From the director of 50 First Dates and Get Smart, Second Act is a heartfelt comedy that will inspire and empower audiences of all ages to reach for their biggest dreams. With an honest and moving performance from Jennifer Lopez, the film also features Lopez’s latest single “Limitless” and  stars an incredible supporting cast including Leah Remini (“The King of Queens,” “Kevin Can Wait”), Vanessa Hudgens (The Princess Switch, High School Musical franchise) and Milo Ventimiglia (“This is Us,” “Gilmore Girls”).

Now you can win the Win the Blu-ray Combo Pack of SECOND ACT. All you have to do is leave a comment below  telling us what your favorite movie starring Jennifer Lopez is. (mine’s U-TURN). It’s so easy!

1. YOU MUST BE A US RESIDENT. PRIZE WILL ONLY BE SHIPPED TO US ADDRESSES.  NO P.O. BOXES.  NO DUPLICATE ADDRESSES.

2. WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN FROM ALL QUALIFYING ENTRIES.

Maya (Lopez) is a 40-year-old woman struggling with frustrations of not having achieved more in life. As an experienced, quick-witted, perceptive employee, she is passed over for a promotion solely because she doesn’t have a college degree. Until, that is, she gets the chance to prove that street smarts are as valuable as book smarts, and that it is never too late for a Second Act.

Filled with funny and genuine moments from beginning to end, Second Act “delivers smiles for miles” (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone) on Blu-rayTM, DVD and Digital, packed with special bonus content including funny and insightful commentary from the cast and filmmakers as well as entertaining featurettes that will take viewers behind the scenes of this incredibly thoughtful romantic comedy.

BONUS FEATURES on BLU-RAYTM, DVD AND DIGITAL

  • Connecting with Milo Ventimiglia – See how Jennifer Lopez and Milo Ventimiglia connected on and off screen in this behind-the-scenes piece.
  • The Empowering Women of Second Act – Get an inside look at how the women of Second Act empowered and supported each other.
  • Friendship On and Off Screen – See how real life best friends Jennifer Lopez and Leah Remini had fun on set and how their real chemistry played on screen.
  • Working with the Ones You Love – Get a behind-the-scenes look at how the whole cast had fun while filming Second Act.

Second Act will be available on Blu-ray™, DVD and Digital.

  • Blu-ray™ unleashes the power of your HDTV and is the best way to watch movies at home, featuring 6X the picture resolution of DVD, exclusive extras and theater-quality surround sound.
  • Digital lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.

SECOND ACT – Review

Photo courtesy of STX.

While the holiday season packs theaters with awards-hopeful films, J-Lo offers her fans a lighter option with SECOND ACT. Jennifer Lopez has not appeared in a movie for awhile, so perhaps her fans are ready to see her on the big screen again. SECOND ACT may be on a big screen but its story is as much television as movie, a mash-up of wish fulfillment fantasy and sit-com stand-bys. J-Lo fans herself may be enough for her fans but others might skip this snoozer.

There is a J-Lo hit, “Limitless,” in the soundtrack but she does not do any singing in the film. She does dance a little in a couple of scenes, and those are actually the most entertaining moments in SECOND ACT.

The premise as Jennifer Lopez as the assistant manager of a big-box store in her New York neighborhood. The retail chain’s regional director is coming to visit her store and …is hopeful she will get her long-awaited promotion to manager. Cheered on by her boyfriend and best friend, she is confident of success.

It is not much of a spoiler to say she doesn’t get the promotion. Despite her hard work, innovative ideas and loyalty to the company, Maya (Lopez) has only a GED and is passed over for a new guy with a college degree. Lopez’s character’s is rightfully outraged at the injustice, and that is followed up a bit later with a snide comment from management about how hard it is for a 40-year-old woman to find a job. Unfortunately, those are the last honest moments in this movie, which then veers off into sit-com fantasy. Although the characters talk endlessly about being honest, all the rest of the film is cobbled together from familiar stock stories, including a couple of dashes of NINE TO FIVE and PRETTY WOMAN.

Having quickly moved Lopez’s character up the career ladder, SECOND ACT loses interest in the income inequality and the struggles of the working poor thing. Leaving the problems of real people behind, SECOND ACT plunges fully into movie fantasy land. Unknown to Maya. her computer wizard godson invents a very impressive resume for her and applies for a dream job as a product developer at one of the companies that sells products in her big-box store. In the real world, that raises all kinds of red-flags but in movie fantasy land, she gets the job, complete with corner office, a corporate apartment and even company credit cards. No one seems to question that sterling resume – well, one person does eventually, but the magical computer wiz deflects the few attempts to fact-check.

Having quickly delivered that bit of wish fulfillment, SECOND ACT needs something else to fill the time and then piles on additional predictably heartwarming stories, about a long-lost daughter and romantic troubles. And lots of talk about honesty.

Lopez is backed-up in this familiar tale by  three loud girlfriends who provide the standard laughs straight out of sit-com playbooks. There is also the perfect boyfriend, goofy co-workers and a not-very-effective villain for Lopez to dispatch in bit of slapstick. There are lots of “sincere moments” that feel entirely manufactured.

The story will not matter to Jennifer Lopez fans who just want see her on screen. And, OK, now some readers might think I’m being Scrooge here, bah-humbugging a feel-good movie. If you are happy with this kind of familiar story or just enjoy seeing J Lo, that’s fine with me. But since the film’s characters talk endlessly about being honest, it might be nice if the film had a little more honesty itself.

Really, only the biggest J Lo fan need bother with this recycled mishmash of a film. J Lo’s accent may be authentic but that is the only thing that is in SECOND ACT.

RATING: 1 out of 5 stars