Tag: jon hamm

TRANSFORMERS ONE – Review

Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax/Optimus Prime) Courtesy of Paramount Pictures

TRANSFORMERS ONE, the first animated theatrical feature since 1986’s THE TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE and a new look into the Transformers universe, catapults audiences back millions of years to the beloved behemoths’ home planet of Cybertron to reveal the origins of Optimus Prime, supreme leader of the heroic Autobots, and his nemesis Megatron, the diabolical commander of the Decepticon forces.

In 2007, the release of Michael Bay’s Oscar-nominated, live-action TRANSFORMERS stormed the global box office with its electrifying depiction of warrior robots battling for dominance on Earth. Inspired by the unprecedented success of Hasbro’s groundbreaking line of transforming toys, the film became a global phenomenon, spawning six more record-breaking films over the next 17 years. The new film shows us who Optimus and Megatron were before the wars and it lets us see Cybertron in total for the first time.

Long before the Transformers bots dreamed of escaping their dying planet for Earth, Cybertron has focused on mining the precious Energon that fuels all life no longer flows freely. The original Primes have been slaughtered in a war with the ruthless Quintessons. In subterranean Iacon City, elite Transformers bots live in luxury, while cog-less, non-transforming bots work tirelessly, digging for dwindling Energon reserves.

As the movie begins, the audience meets Orion Pax and D-16, a pair of lowly worker bots in the Energon mines deep within Cybertron. They are on the verge of a journey that takes them from being the best of friends to the bitterest of enemies. It is a classic tale, echoing powerful stories from the past, even as far back as the Bible’s Cain and Abel. Against this backdrop, ambitious mining bot Orion Pax risks everything in an effort to retrieve the long-lost Matrix of Leadership, a talisman of great power he believes will restart the flow of Energon. Along with fellow workers D-16, Elita-1 and B-127 (aka Bumblebee), Orion travels to the forbidden surface of Cybertron and discovers a breathtaking landscape – as well as a shocking conspiracy that extends into the highest levels of Transformer life. 

Directed by Oscar winner Josh Cooley (TOY STORY 4), TRANSFORMERS ONE’s groundbreaking animation and innovative designs introduce a new level of cinematic artistry to the franchise and ups the stakes on the original live-action films. Cooley truly connects the audience with the characters emotionally by exploring the personal hopes and dreams of the alien robots.

TRANSFORMERS ONE’s terrific voice cast is led by Chris Hemsworth. In each previous iteration of the Transformers franchise, the voice of Optimus Prime, the stoic, heroic leader of the Autobots, has been provided by actor Peter Cullen. His silken growl has become synonymous with the character – until now – and Hemsworth steps into the role of Orion Pax, (aka Optimus Prime), with a natural ease. He had some big shoes to fill and he really honors Cullen’s previous work. Hemsworth even gives fans the line “Transform and Roll Out!”

Brian Tyree Henry plays D-16, aka Megatron, one of the greatest arch-nemeses of all time in the Transformers pantheon. He’s extremely likable at first and the opposite to Orion Pax’s rule breaker. He’s not a bad guy from the beginning. D-16 is a scrappy, smart, hard worker who follows the rules and hates injustice. He aspires to be more, but he’s not going to cross any lines. When he realizes that everything he thinks he knows is a lie, the disillusionment changes him.

Keegan-Michael Key (B-127, Bumblebee)

With a story by Andrew Barrer & Gabriel Ferrari and a screenplay by Eric Pearson and Andrew Barrer & Gabriel Ferrari, the funniest dialogue comes from Keegan-Michael Key who plays B-127 (AKA Bumblebee) who has been a mostly silent character in other chapters of the stories. He never stops talking and is constantly referring to himself as “Bad-Ass-atron”. The perfect partner for Bumblebee is Elita-1, a mining manager who takes no guff from anybody. Voiced by Scarlett Johansson, Elita-1 is an initially unwilling participant on the journey to the surface of Cybertron. She can barely wait to get back to Iacon City and turn the rest of the party into the authorities. Elita-1 is a central character in this sumptuous movie and a great opportunity for the filmmakers to create an authentic female Transformer.

L-r, Brian Tyree Henry (D-16/Megatron), Scarlett Johansson (Elita-1), Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax/Optimus Prime) and Keegan-Michael Key (B-127)

The cast also features a trio of actors in pivotal roles, including Jon Hamm as Sentinel Prime, the leader of Iacon City. Since the loss of his brothers, he has diligently but fruitlessly searched for the Matrix of Leadership. Hamm brings the character a heroic air, as well as some comical pomposity as he postures for the adoring crowds. As Alpha Trion, a Transformer elder statesman believed to have died beside the Primes, Laurence Fishburne brings undeniable authority to his character as he tries to guide the four younger bots toward their goal. It’s heartbreaking to witness the betrayal and ultimate destruction of the Primes. Steve Buscemi also joins the cast as incipient Decepticon Starscream, bringing an unhinged, gonzo quality to the story. Fans will also be pleased to see Soundwave, Shockwave, Jazz and hear a reference to Ratchet as “Dr. Ratchet”.

L-r, Jon Bailey (Soundwave), Steve Buscemi (Starscream) and Jason Konopisos (Shockwave)

The artists behind the scenes Production Designer Jason Scheier, Cinematographer Christopher Batty, Editor Lynn Hobson, Art Director Gerald de Jesus, Visual Effects Supervisor Frazer Churchill and Animation Supervisors Rob Coleman and Stephen King, along with ILM give TRANSFORMERS ONE’s the most amazing action sequences which include the stunning Iacon 5000 road race, along with the final battle between Optimus Prime and Megatron. The Transformers’ home planet of Cybertron has only been glimpsed in snippets in the previous films and TRANSFORMERS ONE is set entirely in this mysterious world. The grandeur is a wonder to behold. It’s richly colorful and gorgeously lit, with beautiful landscapes, while also giving the audience a sense of metals and mechanics, as if Transformers designed it. 

TRANSFORMERS ONE is a story of friendship and betrayal, of aspiring and overcoming and composer Brian Tyler’s score is filled with heartfelt and heroic melodies. He makes you feel like you’re in an Alien world. His unique cues for The Iacon 5000 race and final battle between Optimus Prime and Megatron, once friends, is both exhilarating and tragic, and much credit is to be given to the beautiful work done by the orchestra and musicians.

For fans of the live-action movies where the Autobots were focused solely on protecting humanity, this origin story is fun for everyone. It’s a story filled with emotion, humor, betrayal and giant fights. If you’re a fan, it delivers on what you’re hoping to get and if you’re not yet a fan, you’ll experience something that you probably didn’t think Transformers had in it. TRANSFORMERS ONE is the exhilarating adventure fans have been waiting decades to see and it’s one of the best films of 2024.

TRANSFORMERS ONE opens in theaters on September 20, 2024.

RATING: 4 out of 4 stars

Based on Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures

Win A Family 4-Pack Of Passes To The St. Louis Advance Screening Of TRANSFORMERS ONE

TRANSFORMERS ONE is the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever. In the first-ever fully CG-animated Transformers movie, TRANSFORMERS ONE features a star-studded voice cast, including Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Buscemi with Laurence Fishburne and Jon Hamm.

Quavo, Ty Dolla $ign, and ARE WE DREAMING (Composer – Brian Tyler) join forces on their new collaborative anthem, “If I Fall,” for Paramount Animation and Hasbro Entertainment’s upcoming motion picture TRANSFORMERS ONE. The three superstars build off one another’s resilient verses, vowing to “take no prisoners” and refusing to give up when the odds are stacked against them. “It’s in my bloodline; I have too much pride,” declares Quavo on the track.

Directed by Josh Cooley, TRANSFORMERS ONE is set to release September 20th.

The special screening is 11AM on Saturday, September 14th @ Marcus Ronnie’s Cine (10AM Suggested Arrival)

Please arrive early as seating is not guaranteed.

FOUR winners will each receive 4 passes to the screening.

GET YOUR PASSES HERE: http://gofobo.com/sNcui52225

“Transformers One” has been rated PG for sci-fi violence and animated action throughout, and language.

Bottom l-r clockwise, Keegan-Michael Key (B-127), Scarlett Johansson (Elita-1), Brian Tyree Henry (D-16), Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax) star in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO Present In Association with NEW REPUBLIC PICTURES A di BONAVENTURA PICTURES Production A TOM DESANTO / DON MURPHY Production A BAY FILMS Production “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

MEAN GIRLS (2024) – Review

Avantika plays Karen Shetty, Angourie Rice plays Cady Heron, Renee Rapp plays Regina George and Bebe Wood plays Gretchen Wieners in Mean Girls from Paramount Pictures. Photo: Jojo Whilden/Paramount © 2023 Paramount Pictures.

Get ready for another “full circle film”, an IP (intellectual property) that began in one medium, was adapted to another, and then returns to that original medium. One of the more recent Broadway trends, along with the “jukebox musical”, has been taking an often beloved feature film and adapting it into a big splashy stage musical. And when they’re big hits, then bring the musical take to the big screen. Back in 2005, THE PRODUCERS did the big “whip-around” when the musical based on the 1967 Oscar-winning classic played (briefly) at the multiplex. A couple of years later saw the tune-filled return of HAIRSPRAY. Just a few weeks ago (it’s still playing in many markets) THE COLOR PURPLE did much the same, although it may be more of a “full-square” as it began as a book that became a 1985 Spielberg epic. As the TV hosts might say, “On a much lighter note”, we’ve got a big circle all within the 21st century as an adored (and endlessly quoted) cult comedy from way back in 2004 is now filling the world’s movie theatres with those singin’ and dancin’ divas, the MEAN GIRLS.


In the first of many “tweaks,” we first meet the misfit duo of North Shore High, Janis (Aluli’i Cravalho) and Damian (Jaquel Spivey), who serve as the story’s guide and narrators. Their garage/TikTok studio door opens up to the wilds of Kenya where teenager Cady Heron (Angourie Rice) is told by her wildlife-researcher mom (Jenna Fischer) that her homeschooling is done. They’re moving back to the States, where Cady will be part of the aforementioned school’s student body. Principal Duvall (Tim Meadows) escorts her to her first class, Calculus taught by Ms. Norbury (Tina Fey). Seems that Mama Heron has taught Cady well, but she’s not prepared for the battlezone AKA the school cafeteria. Luckily Janis and Damian take her under “their wings” and point out the different “social groups” (“burn-outs”, “goths”, etc.). Oh, and Cady is warned about the “queens” known as “the Plastics”. The trio consists of gorgeous, dim Karen (Avantika), insecure “lackey/sidekick” Gretchen (Bebe Woods), and their “leader’ the imposing goddess Regina George (Renee Rapp). Surprisingly she welcomes the new, “girl from an exotic land” Cady, and puts her in the runnings as a ‘fourth wheel”. Damian and Janis (who also has a history with Regina) encourage her to join and give them “the dirt” on the group. But things take a drastic turn when Cady becomes smitten with hunky Aaron (Christopher Briney), who just happens to be Regina’s ex (gasp). What will happen when Regina finds out? Cady survived the carnivores of Africa, but can she stand a chance against the sharpened talons of Ms. George?

The young cast expertly hits all the comedic and melodic beats of this musical fable. Rice is the story’s focus and quickly has the audience’s support as the wide-eyed innocent Cady. Perhaps because she’s the film’s heroine she doesn’t have as much opportunity to “cut loose”, although we get a hint of her range when Cady goes “dark”. The much “showier” role is the fierce and fiery (literally) Janis given an energetic power by Cravalho, perhaps best known as the voice of Disney princess Moana. With her third-act retelling of a childhood trauma, she truly ignites the screen. Her rival in many aspects of Cady’s character arc is Rapp as the sadistic “queen B” Regina whose sly seductive smile masks her cruel nature. At times she seems to be a bored cat casually taunting a mouse in its clutches, as she manipulates everyone into being pawns in her schemes. Rapp catutes that camp villainy and proves to be a most compelling crooner. Wood elicits lots of empathy as the needy, over-eager-to-please Gretchen while Avantika scores loads of laughs as the bubble-brained Karen, bouncing off the screen in the big Halloween number. Spivey brings lots of energetic charm to the cliche role of flamboyant BFF supporter Damien, while Birney is the required “eye candy” as the affable, but somewhat bland Aaron. But for many, the movie’s big highlight is the return of original faculty members Fey and Meadows who seem to have been “frozen in time” ( the old Captain America “pause”) as Norbury and Duvall, effortlessly hilarious in their too, too brief bits of screen time, making us wish that two other newbies, but also comedy vets, Jon Hamm and Fischer were given chances to shine. Luckily Busy Phillips picks up some of the “slack” as Regina’s too accommodating, wistful mother.

This reimagining is helmed by the first-time feature film directing team of Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr., who use several interesting techniques to “open up” the “Broadway staging’, giving the plot a sense of urgency I like the opening number’s quick location transitions), They’re striving to give this remake its own energy and style, though many storybeats feel lifted right from the 2004 original. But unlike that version, the kids must deal with social media which gets an exhausting couple of zippy montages. Ditto for many of the bouncy dance numbers especially an elaboration of the “school is a jungle” sequence from the first flick, with the “beasts” giving Regina her invisible “walkway”. Aside from those big numbers, the power ballads”, and the phone videos and memes, is this one an improvement over the now twenty-year-old gem? Not especially, but the script and setup by Ms. Fey endures and stands the “test of time”. It’s a very different “take” that should engage those “theatre geeks” (just hope that your multiplex’s sound system is up to it, as ours “garbled” most of the lyrics so it’s impossible to judge the quality of the tunes), but it won’t replace that well-worn disc (or maybe you still have a tape) of those marvelous but often malicious MEAN GIRLS.

2.5 out of 4

MEAN GIRLS is now playing in theatres everywhere

MAGGIE MOORE(S) – Review

(l-r) Tina Fey as Rita and Jon Hamm as Chief Sanders, in MAGGIE MOORE(S). Courtesy of Screen Media

Fans of quirky, darkly comedic murder mysteries should find MAGGIE MOORE(S) to be a worthy descendant of films like FARGO and THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI that is right in their wheelhouse. In a small town that sees little crime, Police Chief Jordan Sanders (Jon Hamm) and his semi-useful deputy Reddy (British comedian Nick Mohammed) find the body of a young woman named Maggie Moore. Her husband is grieving but it’s not clear if he’s sincere. Before they can solve that crime, another Maggie Moore around the same age turns up dead. Her husband also seems suspicious, although for completely different reasons. The two women didn’t know each other, or have any identifiable connection, but Hamm suspects the killings of blond Maggie and brunette Maggie must somehow be intertwined.

As his investigation begins, a neighbor of Maggie number one, Rita Grace (Tina Fey), proves to be a useful source of information for Hamm’s police chief, and potentially more. Viewers are shown much of the machinations behind the deaths, so the mystery isn’t about whodunit but whether and how Hamm will solve the cases. The course does not go smoothly for the chief but it does unfold delightfully for the viewer, with dry wit and several surprises along the way.

Director John Slattery, who co-starred with St. Louis native Hamm in the mega-hit series “Mad Men” and directed five of its episodes, does a fine job behind the cameras here – especially for one whose long career has been spent almost entirely in front of them. The town looks quiet and anonymous, giving this an anywhere non-urban feel that suits the material. The action shifts among the moving pieces in this mini-crime wave effectively for both clarity and humor, with a running time that’s perfect for the tale being told. The foibles of the characters are given room to develop, maintaining that delicately balanced tone of wryness without giving in to zany. Though Fey is only credited as a supporting actress here, veteran screenwriter Paul Bernbaum seems to have been channeling her sensibilities as he crafted his script.

Hamm’s performance is superb in a role that makes his matinee-idol looks a relative non-factor, boding well for his career longevity. His character is a widower, awkwardly and reluctantly beginning to move on with his personal life just when he gets gobsmacked with his biggest work-related challenges. Mohammed is about as helpful in both regards as Barney Fife was for Sheriff Andy, though his bumbling is more verbal and less physical. Several scenes between Hamm and Fey are superbly written and executed. Many of the cast members contribute to the humorous aspects of the package en route to a very satisfying climax.

MAGGIE MOORE(S) opens in theaters and streaming on demand on Friday, June 16.

RATING: 3 out of 4 stars

CONFESS, FLETCH – Review

Yes, it’s a bit late for a flick based on a “beach book’ (usually a paperback you’d read while getting your tan near the water’s edge), so how about something more suited to Autumn, perhaps a movie based on a mystery one would read while enjoying a warm beverage next to a fireplace? Oh, I forgot to mention that this particular film is part of a literary series featuring a much-beloved sleuth. Now, we just had a visit from Hercule Poirot a few months ago, so his mustache is “in mothballs” for the moment. Anyway, this character is not known as a detective or a “consultant” (like the fellow at 221B Baker Str.). The title “hero” of this tale is an investigative reporter, or at least he was (he’s telling everyone that he’s “retired”). And he’s been absent from the screen for 33 years now. Oh, there are police detectives aplenty as this “man of leisure” gets involved with art heists, forgery, kidnapping, and murder. And, of course, the cops are imploring him to CONFESS, FLETCH.

It all starts (maybe “kicks into high gear”) on a warm Boston evening. In a “high-end” urban neighborhood Irwin Maurice “Fletch” Fletcher (Jon Hamm) unlocks the front door of the rental home where he’ll be staying during his latest “research trip”. In the lobby is a welcome note under a wine bottle. And several feet away from that is the lifeless body of a twenty-something blonde woman. Fletch calls the police (the general number, not 9-11), and soon opens his door to the homicide squad led by Detective “slo-mo” Monroe (Roy Wood Jr.) and his aide, Detective Griz (Ayden Mayeri). During questioning, Fletch explains how this “west-coater” came to be there…via Italy. He insists that he’s “retired” from Investigative journalism, but a hefty”retainer” prompted him to fly to Venice to meet with an heiress named Angela AKA “Andy” (Lorenza Izzo), who’s looking to locate several very pricey paintings from her father’s collection. Andy suspects that her snooty stepmother, who insists on being called “The Countess” (Marcia Gay Harden), had a gloved, jeweled hand in it. To complicate things further, Andy’s pop, the Count, has been kidnapped. The ransom: a multi-million dollar original Picasso. The pot is “sweetened” for Fletch when he begins an affair with Andy leading to their engagement. But he leaves her for “Beantown” where all leads point to an established art dealer, and EDM fan (Kyle MacLachlan). The police release Fletch as a “person of interest”, so he’s got to “shake them” to find the art and the reason why somebody would “set him up” on a murder charge. Over the next few days, Fletch, using several aliases, discovers several suspects including the rental home’s owner Owen (John Behlmann), his soon-to-be-ex-wife (Lucy Punch), and their spacy hippie neighbor Eve (Annie Mumolo) while dodging Monroe and Griz. But what happens when his new fiancee is added to that roster? Can Fletch’s former boss, newspaper editor Frank (John Slattery) point him toward the real “perps” before the “frame sticks”?


The role of the “snarky sleuth” feels like a near-perfect fit for Hamm as he tries to go from an iconic TV role (Don Draper) into leading man roles in feature films (he scored recently with his supporting role in TOP GUN: MAVERICK). While he makes good use of his “matinee idol” looks (we don’t question the quick pairing with Andy), Hamm finally gets a chance to showcase his superb comic skills that we’ve seen on TV (great hosting gigs on SNL, and a recurring role on “30 Rock”). And whether tossing off an effortless one-liner or a blistering “burn”, or going “all in” as a zany phony expert, Hamm puts his distinctive mark on the beloved “righteous rascal”. He may be at his “best” when verbally sparring with Wood as the laconic Monroe, whose “laid-back” style lulls many into letting their guards down. Fletch may think that he can charm his way around him, but Wood can “throw down” with him when needed. Though he flummoxes his co-workers, particularly the often exasperated Griz, played with a perfect “slow burn” by Mayeri. And it’s great to see Hamm back with his old “Mad Men” co-star Slattery as they share a warm rapport as two pals who know each other’s “MO”. Much as in ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD, Izzo is a stunning Italian femme fatale, who pushes Fletch until he needs to push back. Screen vets Hardin, MacLachlan, Punch, and Mumolo also score big laughs as the loopy “red herrings”. Or are they?

So, after countless attempts to bring the character back to the big screen (from Jason Lee to Zach Braff to Joshua Jackson, among others), director/co-screenwriter Greg Mottola (who adapted Gregory McDonald’s 1976 novel with Zev Borow) is the one to “reboot’ (and maybe “revamp”) the wiseacre sleuth. So, can he move out of the shadow of Chevy Chase’s late 1980s efforts? Yes, I’d say that it strives to be “its own animal” and largely succeeds thanks to Hamm (who was part of Mottola’s last film KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES). and his supporting ensemble. Unfortunately, the new entry has the same problems as its legacy in that the central mystery is, well, almost as stale as Colombo’s cigars. Twists and turns, along with double and triple crosses are tossed in with some “floating” a long, long time before their “payback”. But, like the earlier mentioned Poirot movies, are you that concerned over “pinched” paintings, although the murder “set up” gives it a bit of much-needed urgency (and yet, there’s still that “lull” around the one-hour mark). Nope, this is merely an excuse for our hero to pelt the dense and pompous with insults and try and bluff his way out when a ruse starts to crack. So is this the start of a new movie franchise? Well, probably not though it would be an entertaining occasional cable or streaming feature. So, unless you’re a diehard Chase devotee, you’ll chuckle many times as those in charge try to compel IMF to CONFESS, FLETCH.

3 Out of 4

CONFESS, FLETCH is now playing in select theatres and is streaming as a video-on-demand via most services.

See Jon Hamm In CONFESS, FLETCH, The Dark-Comedy Murder Mystery From Director Greg Mottola Releasing In Theaters Sept. 16

See the trailer for director Greg Mottola’s CONFESS, FLETCH.

The film stars Jon Hamm, Roy Wood Jr., Annie Mumolo, Ayden Mayeri, Lorenzo Izzo, Kyle MacLachlan, Marcia Gay Harden.

In this delightful comedy romp, Jon Hamm stars as the roguishly charming and endlessly troublesome Fletch, who becomes the prime suspect in a murder case while searching for a stolen art collection. The only way to prove his innocence? Find out which of the long list of suspects is the culprit—from the eccentric art dealer and a missing playboy to a crazy neighbor and Fletch’s Italian girlfriend. Crime, in fact, has never been this disorganized.

Confess, Fletch is a pulpy noir adaptation of Gregory MacDonald’s classic 1976 novel.

Rated R for language, some sexual content and drug use.

In Theatres & on Digital September 16

Pre-order now: https://paramnt.us/ConfessFletch

TOP GUN: MAVERICK – Review

This holiday weekend’s big (and I mean big) release could set some records at the box office, while already setting one big milestone. It’s a sequel (not a reboot as many websites say) that has had the longest “gestating” time between its original flick. While most “franchise tentpoles” have usually two or three years between entries, here we have a whopping 36 years since the same actor, playing the same character, took to the skies. I’d venture to say that most of this weekend’s audiences weren’t alive when the first one was blasting through the multiplexes (often in malls back in the day). Oh, and that’s not counting its many pandemic delays and rescheduled openings in the last two years. Yes, 80s film fans have had a long wait to return to the “danger zone” in TOP GUN: MAVERICK. So buckle in…

Oh, this flick does begin with that familiar pop tune as the paramount mountain (and a military prologue “card”) fades away to reveal…Navy flier Captain Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) enjoying some breakfast in an airplane hangar (I’m guessing this is his home). Soon he’s on the road to a nearby testing station. But there’s a “hitch” in his plans. His old pal “Hondo” (Bashir Salahuddin) tells him that one of the Navy “bigwigs” is on his way to shut down the tests on the new fighter jet. Well, he can’t ground him if he’s up in the clouds, so Maverick hurriedly prepares for the big test flight. And that “big gun”, Radm Cain (Ed Harris) arrives at the gate just as the jet leaves the runway. Of course, Pete pushes the craft too hard and is brought into Cain’s office, for at least a dressing down or perhaps he’ll get “the boot”. But to nearly everyone’s surprise, Cain informs Pete that an old friend “in high places” has ordered that he return to his old San Diego training center to instruct a group of new fighters prepping for a dangerous mission. When Pete arrives he is greeted by his hard-nosed superior Adm ‘Cyclone’ Simpson (Jon Hamm) who outlines the big mission (destroying the new Uranium processing plant of a “rogue nation”) and pretty much rattles off the “riot act”. Later Pete heads off to a familiar nearby “watering hole” and is surprised to see that it’s now run by an old “flame”, Penny (Jennifer Connelly). He also observes the fliers he will train including one that he’s got a big connection with, Lt. “Rooster” Bradshaw (Miles Teller) whose father Goose was Pete’s best pal prior to his death in a mission together. Can the two put their past aside in order to complete “the job” as the deadline rapidly approaches? And can Pete pass along his skills to insure their safe return?

Cruise slips back into the role that catapulted him into big screen superstardom as though he’s slipping on a (slightly worn) bomber jacket (and a pair of sharp Aviators). Though he’s been defying gravity (and time) for the last couple of decades in the MI series, he hasn’t really connected in most other efforts, leaving his fans to dream of him soaring into the stratosphere once more. Well, wishes are now granted as he brings the same stern intensity paired with an affable charm, but now with a touch of patriarchal pride as he takes these jet-crazy kids under his still-muscular wings. But we see the regret etched into his face, as this ‘ace’ ponders the “flight path not taken”. Connelly’s Penny is part of that, as she fights that ole’ attraction while trying to assert her independence, even while hiding the rekindled “flame” from her wise-beyond-her-years teen daughter. What a pleasure to see Connelly’s intelligence, and dazzling smile almost as bright as Tom’s) back on the big screen. The other part of Pete’s not-so-golden past is represented by Teller as Rooster, who struggles to put aside his anger with Maverick while striving to be his own man and fly out of his pop’s long impressive shadow. Teller conveys Rooster’s sadness and his furious anger over Pete’s attempt to “protect him”. Hamm is a terrific sparring partner for Cruise as the CO that will try and tame “the Maverick” ( and we suspect how that’ll go). The splaying the young pilots are quite endearing especially Monica Barbaro as the main female flyer, the “Phoenix”, her skilled by somewhat “dweeby” partner “Bob” (“Just Bob”) played by Lewis Pullman (Bill’s son) and the charming bad boy “Hangman” given a rascally smirk by Glen Powell (and full of surprises). Speaking of, the most pleasant one (and I’m not spoiling things) is the return of Val Kilmer as ‘Iceman’, Pete’s rival from the first flick, who’s now a retired admiral. The brief reunion of the two is the real heart of this story (which may inspire an allergy outbreak of sniffles through the theatre).

Taking over the directing reigns from the late Tony Scott is Joseph Kosinski (TRON: LEGACY), who finds the perfect balance between character interactions and edge-of-your-seat action sequences. It’s been reported that all the actors actually went up in the jets, with several actually working the controls, making for some breathtaking backdrops (no “green screen” or CGI, apart from some missiles), and letting us experience the grueling “G-force’ effects on the cast’s faces (we can really see them start to blackout). So, if you get the chance to watch this in Imax, well, go for it! And the story benefits from the sweet, yet mature courtship of Penny and Pete (there’s a hint of a spark between Phoenix and Rooster, too). And there’s a bit of “fan service” as one scene echoes the big “beefcake” beach sports from the original. Now some of it is more than a bit far-fetched as the big “mission” almost plays like a rehash of the “Death Star” trench run in another big movie series. Credulity is pushed further to the edge when the “dogfights” are grounded in the big climax. Plus the producers go out of their way to never identify the enemy as the pilots from the “rogue nation” are completely covered in black (naturally) when seen in their respective cockpits (which happen to have English labels). Oh, but why nitpick. This is that very rare sequel that easily surpassed the original (I barely made it through in one viewing in 86′), earning its advance “rep’ as a popcorn-fueled entertainment machine. As the song from the first flick crooned (wished they had a spot for it this time), TOP GUN: MAVERICK will “Take Your Breath Away”. Multiplex-mission accomplished!


3.5 out of 4

TOP GUN: MAVERICK is now playing in theatres everywhere

Win Passes To The St. Louis Advance Screening Of TOP GUN: MAVERICK Starring Tom Cruise

Brought to you by Paramount Pictures and Skydance and Jerry Bruckheimer Films. IN THEATERS EVERYWHERE MAY 27. TICKETS ON SALE NOW.

https://www.topgunmovie.com/

Enter to win 2 free passes to the St. Louis area advance screening of TOP GUN: MAVERICK, starring Tom Cruise, Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly, Jon Hamm, Glen Powell, Lewis Pullman, Charles Parnell, Bashir Salahuddin, Monica Barbaro, Jay Ellis, Danny Ramirez, Greg Tarzan Davis with Ed Harris and Val Kilmer.

DATE AND TIME:
May 23, 2022, Monday at 7:00pm

The screening will be filled on a first come first served basis, so we encourage you to arrive early. Seats will not be guaranteed. 

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After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy’s top aviators, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank that would ground him. When he finds himself training a detachment of TOPGUN graduates for a specialized mission the likes of which no living pilot has ever seen, Maverick encounters Lt. Bradley Bradshaw (Miles Teller), call sign: “Rooster,” the son of Maverick’s late friend and Radar Intercept Officer Lt. Nick Bradshaw, aka “Goose.”

Facing an uncertain future and confronting the ghosts of his past, Maverick is drawn into a confrontation with his own deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who will be chosen to fly it. 

Directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, Tom Cruise, Christopher McQuarrie, David Ellison.

Tom Cruise plays Capt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in Top Gun: Maverick from Paramount Pictures, Skydance and Jerry Bruckheimer Films.

Check Out The New Trailer For TOP GUN MAVERICK Starring Tom Cruise, Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly And Jon Hamm

After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy’s top aviators, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank that would ground him. When he finds himself training a detachment of TOPGUN graduates for a specialized mission the likes of which no living pilot has ever seen, Maverick encounters Lt. Bradley Bradshaw (Miles Teller), call sign: “Rooster,” the son of Maverick’s late friend and Radar Intercept Officer Lt. Nick Bradshaw, aka “Goose”.

Facing an uncertain future and confronting the ghosts of his past, Maverick is drawn into a confrontation with his own deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who will be chosen to fly it.

Maverick is FINALLY coming to theatres May 27. Watch the NEW official trailer now


Directed by Joseph Kosinski, the film stars Tom Cruise, Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly, Jon Hamm, Glen Powell, Lewis Pullman, Charles Parnell, Bashir Salahuddin, Monica Barbaro, Jay Ellis, Danny Ramirez, Greg Tarzan Davis with Ed Harris.

TOP GUN: MAVERICK IS IN THEATRES, DOLBY CINEMA, AND IMAX MAY 27, 2022

https://www.topgunmovie.com/

TOM CRUISE PLAYS CAPT. PETE “MAVERICK” MITCHELL, MILES TELLER PLAYS LT. BRADLEY “ROOSTER” BRADSHAW, MONICA BARBARO PLAYS “PHOENIX” AND GLEN POWELL PLAYS “HANGMAN” IN TOP GUN: MAVERICK FROM PARAMOUNT PICTURES, SKYDANCE AND JERRY BRUCKHEIMER FILMS.
Tom Cruise plays Capt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in Top Gun: Maverick from Paramount Pictures, Skydance and Jerry Bruckheimer Films.

Emily Blunt and Jamie Dornan in WILD MOUNTAIN THYME Available on DVD February 2nd.

John Patrick Shanley, who created the classic, Moonstruck, brings his sweeping romantic vision to Ireland with WILD MOUNTAIN THYME. The headstrong farmer Rosemary Muldoon (Emily Blunt) has her heart set on winning her neighbor Anthony Reilly’s love. The problem is Anthony (Jamie Dornan) seems to have inherited a family curse, and remains oblivious to his beautiful admirer. Stung by his father Tony Reilly’s (Christopher Walken) plans to sell the family farm to his American nephew (Jon Hamm), Anthony is jolted into pursuing his dreams in this comedic, moving and wildly romantic tale.

With the purchase of WILD MOUNTAIN THYME on disc or digital, fans are eligible to earn points towards special rewards via the Universal All-Access Rewards program. Members can redeem their points for digital movies, signed collectables, box sets, win exclusive prizes and more! For FREE registration and details please visit www.MyUniversalRewards.com.   

WILD MOUNTAIN THYME will be available on DVD and Digital February 2nd

WILD MOUNTAIN THYME stars Emily Blunt, Jamie Dornan, Jon Hamm, Dearbhla Malloy and Christopher Walken