Tag: Keanu Reeves

GOOD FORTUNE (2025) – Review

This big new studio film release takes a tough look at the social economics system in place today. So, it’s a hard-hitting drama or maybe a “searing” slice-of-life documentary? No, it’s a comedy. Stranger still, it’s a fantasy comedy about the “haves” and “have-nots”. It’s about what happens when a rich guy and a “barely scraping by” guy switch lifestyles. And yes, its makers openly acknowledge the 83′ TRADING PLACES, even lifting a “needle drop” as a tribute. So, the fantasy element? It’s not a witch or a djinn or even a fairy godmother (or father). Instead, the “status quo” is upended by an angel. And he’s a bit inept, but (due to the casting) always “awesome” as he delivers a much needed (but is it deserved) “batch” of GOOD FORTUNE.

In the opening moments, we meet that angel watching over the streets of modern-day LA from a rooftop. He’s Gabriel (Keanu Reeves), who may be considered a “second string”, “budget”, or a “minor” angel (his fairly small wings are a hint), who is tasked with alerting those highway menaces who “text while driving”. Gabe pops into their car’s backseat, touches their shoulder, causing them to look up from their “holy” screen. He’s kept busy, but Gabe wants to do more. Perhaps that’s why he takes an interest in one of his “humans”, Arj (Aziz Ansari), an aspiring documentary filmmaker who is mired in the “gig economy” (he’s a “task sergeant”) while trying to get his “big break”. Later, at a meeting of angels, Gabe tells his supervisor Martha (Sandra Oh) that he wants to aid Arj much like adored “lost souls” angel Azrael (Stephen McKinley Henderson). She sternly tells him that he must “stay in his lane”. But Gabe still hovers near Arj as he becomes an assistant (for a one-week trial period) to a wealthy “tech bro” Jeff (Seth Rogan). But when Arj uses a “work charge card” for a surprisingly expensive date with a cute union organizer at a “big box” hardware store, Elena (Keke Palmer), Jeff fires him (despite Arj telling his account that he’ll pay it back). Arj is at his lowest point when is car (also his bedroom) is towed at a Denny’s lot. Then Gabe appears to him and offers him a chance to switch places with Jeff, thinking this will teach him that money isn’t everything. But Arj loves it (Jeff is his poor, hapless aide). Gabe appears to Jeff, and confesses the life “swap”. Things get more convoluted when Martha demote Gabe (no wings, no magic, just human). Can he and Jeff survive on the mean streets long enough to get Arj to go back to his old existence, which will get Gabe his old job back (along with those “heavenly perks”)?

The marketing big selling point is Reeves as Gabriel, though many may think of him as an action movie icon (forever Mr. Wick to some). Here he reminds us of his considerable comedic “chops” as he scores near constant laughs as the dim adult-cherub whose line delivery almost echoes the much adored iconic Ted Logan. But Reeves adds so much appreciated pathos to Gabe as we see his childlike wonder, and eventually annoyance, over the ways of “reg’lar folk” (loves them chicken “nuggies”). Also hitting the “pathos button” hard is Azari has the constantly “dumped-on” Arj who is a good man dealt a very “bad hand” by life. He still retains a sweetness beyond the snark, especially in his interactions with Elena (the talented Ms. Palmer builds on her similarly-themed “under the radar” comic romp from earlier in the year, ONE OF THEM DAYS). Sure, Arj is ecstatic over the “turn of events”, though Ansari conveys Arj’s guilt over a life unearned (but not ready to leave). The very busy Mr. Rogen (with two terrific streaming comedies, “The Studio” and “Platonic”) is strong as the somewhat spoiled app-investor who finds out how his impulsive decisions can really impact other, when he becomes one of them. His arrogance is soon squashed as he confronts the challenges of the “now”. Though we only see her briefly, Oh adds the proper gravitas (and is the perfect comic “straight” to Reeves) as the somber Martha, while Matt Rogers is effective as Arj’s new “big bucks” buddy Peter.


In his big screen directing debut (after the still shelved BEING MORTAL). Ansari directs with a light touch, slipping the jokes “in” quietly and avoiding lots of frenetic bombast. There is some slapstick as Arj almost echoes the often hapless Everyman played in the silents by Keaton and Lloyd. The LA locations are used well, from the ultra swank home of Jeff high above the city, to the street-level squalor that he now roams with the “de-winged” Gabe. The opening act is so strong that it makes the rest of the story a bit sluggish. This may be due to the structure of Asnari’s script (with elements of CITY OF ANGELS, THE FAMILY MAN, IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, and the aforementioned TP) which jarringly shifts focus after the switch. We’ve been following Arj so closely that it’s difficult to suddenly being with Jeff and Gabe nearly all through the last hour. This makes its length feel much greater than just under 100 minutes. And while a lot of the plot is a zany romp, it takes a rather preachy detour, making the case for corporate empathy (which will properly be ignored by the 1%), even shifting to Elena’s push for a union at her hardware store. It’s a shame that the final result falls short on the inspired premise and casting (particularly for Reeves). Now, that would certainly be some prime cinematic GOOD FORTUNE.

2.5 Out of 4

GOOD FORTUNE is now playing in theaters everywhere

Win Passes To The St. Louis Advance Screening Of GOOD FORTUNE

He’s an angel. Technically. Keanu Reeves is Gabriel in #GoodFortune – in theatres October 17. Also starring Seth Rogan, Aziz Ansari, KeKe Palmer & Sandra Oh.

https://www.goodfortune.movie

The St. Louis screening is 7pm on Tuesday, October 14th AT B&B West Olive … 6pm Suggested Arrival

Passes are available while supplies last.

ENTER HERE FOR PASSES: http://www.lionsgatescreenings.com/ZZBfC54636

Rated R.

BALLERINA (2025) – Review

With another post-Memorial Day weekend, yet another franchise arrives with a new entry at the multiplex. It feels like a week ago (and it was) that I wrote about the return of THE KARATE KID, which was a sequel/reboot that dealt with the loss of a major supporting character, Mr. Miyagi. This new film takes on the challenge of continuing a series when the major “title” character met his end (yeah, probably…) in the last installment. Well, you bring in another, similar “principal” and set the story during the “in-between” time of previous entries. This way, that beloved figure can be “ret-conned” using old footage and new scenes, as a supporting player “passing the torch”. Or in this case, “tossing a huge freakin’ gun with an endless clip”. And so, here’s the new “super action” diva known as BALLERINA, though many sites list it with the “play it safe” “intro tile” of IN THE WORLD OF JOHN WICK, since they want all to know that this “aint’ no” frilly ballet flick (but it does briefly concern that).


And it’s the first image we see, namely, an amusic-box style toy with a twirling tutu-wearing dancer in a glass bubble. It’s the prized possession of eight-year-old Eve, who is living a peaceful life with her widowed young father in a blissful beach estate. He mentions a lost older daughter before the tranquility is shattered by a force of heavily armed men. Eve hides behind a wall, but through a row of books she watches her battered papa get questioned by the group’s leader, a dark, brooding man known as the Chancellor (Gabriel Byrne). Before he expires, Daddy leads Eve away, after she spots an odd “X” marking on the wrists of the killers, to a safe spot where she is eventually taken in by Winston (Ian McShane), who puts her under the protection of the New York Continental. As the years pass, Eve (Ana de Armas) travels to the theatre location of the fearsome Ruska Roma to begin training as a classical dancer under the strict guidance of the “Director” (Angelica Huston). Actually, Eve divides her time between the ballet and bullets, as she also learns to become an elite assassin, and gets a bit of advice from a sullen visitor, John Wick (Keanu Reeves), himself. On her first big assignment, Eve encounters one of the “X-marked” men, which leads her to the Prague Continental, where another widowed father, Daniel Pine (Norman Reedus), is trying to break away from the “X cult” and the Chancellor. This sends Eve, despite stern orders from the Director to stay away, to a snowy, quiet Alpine village for a final “revenge quest” against the Chancellor, who brings in the “biggest gun” (you-know-who) to end the deadly dance of the blood-soaked ballerina.

As one of many who groused that her appearance in the last James Bond flick was far too brief (really one of that lackluster flick’s best sequences), I was pleased that we get to see the captivating Ms. de Armas in full “action queen” mode as the revenge-obsessed Eve. Her “hyper-focused” stare and superb physical combat skills really carry the simple story across the globe. We get to see a touch of Eve’s emotional anguish, often as she strives to be a “killer dancer” rather than the former, but the filmmakers want to firmly establish a new “force,” and Ms. de Armas is more than up to the often exhausting task. Plus, she has an excellent rapport with Reeves (actually their third film together), who slips right back into the stoic, sullen Wick as though he were donning one of his indestructible jackets. His time in her tale is brief, but Reeves brings the gravitas as he gently nudges Eve into the spotlight. Byrne is effective as the calm, cool mastermind, balancing a soft, gentle tone ( a mask, really) with the malignant, murdering tyrant interior. Also, as another tough crime veteran, Houston still captures us with her piercing glare as another major “player” in the global underground. Bringing a lot more warmth is the suave McShane, as the mentor/uncle to the emotionally scared little Eve. Another great father figure is Reedus as the dad “on the lam” who points Eve, like a weapon, toward her goal/target. Big kudos for the producers for giving us one last visit from the taken-too-soon Lance Reddick as Winston’s firm but friendly “right hand”, Charon.

Director Len Wiseman, perhaps best known for the first two UNDERWORLD action/horror flicks, gets the best from his impressive stunt team along with his f/x artists, to expand on the “Wick world”, as they travel the planet and leave countless corpses in their wake. Yes, action “adrelaine junkies” will get a strong “fix” here as Eve piles ups the baddies in loads of new creative waves. One sequence has her “making do” with boxes of old hand grenades, turning much of a massive basement into a “Pollack painting” of destruction. It’s all nasty R-rated splattered fun, up until a point (perhaps the 90-minute mark). Ultimately, the new “spin-off” suffers the excesses of the last Wick epics as the “first-person-shooter” video game-style mayhem becomes a tad tiresome past the two “full of fatalities” hours. Yes, some of the dance/fights are engaging and creative, but it all hinges on the flimsiest and cliched vengeance plots. The locations are pretty nice, particularly a massive indoor “meat locker” frigid dance hall. Ms. de Armas is a charismatic and stunning action heroine who deserves a bolder sequel script that will build on the stunt-heavy, “drama-lite” BALLERINA.

2.5 Out of 4

BALLERINA is now playing in theatres everywhere

Win Passes To The St. Louis Advance Screening Of BALLERINA

—- THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED —-

Taking place during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, Ballerina follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas) who is beginning her training in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma.

The film brings together familiar faces and exciting new characters. Returning icons from the John Wick world are: The Director (Anjelica Huston), the formidable leader of the fearsome training ground / ballet school, the Ruska Roma; as well as Winston (Ian McShane) and Charon (Lance Reddick) as, respectively, the head and concierge of the hotel for assassins, The Continental New York and John Wick himself, Keanu Reeves.

At the same time, we’re introduced to intriguing characters new to the franchise, including the mysterious Daniel Pine (Norman Reedus), with whom Eve has a fateful encounter at The Continental Prague; and The Chancellor (Gabriel Byrne), the domineering head of a cult-like army of killers.

Under the direction of action maestro Len Wiseman (Live Free or Die Hard, the Underworld films), BALLERINA puts a new spin on the action franchise’s hallmark elements, including high-level chases, never-before-seen propulsive set pieces, striking international locations, intricate fight choreography, and an arsenal of inventive weaponry — from ice skates and katana swords, to ice axes and flamethrowers.

The next movie in the John Wick franchise: #BallerinaMovie – only in theaters June 6. Get tickets now.

https://johnwick.movie/film/ballerina

Watch a new clip now.

15 lucky readers will win a pair of tickets (good for 2) to the advance screening of BALLERINA.

The St. Louis screening is at 7pm on Monday, June 2nd at B&B Creve Coeur West Olive.

To enter, email michelle@wearemoviegeeks.com. Winners will be notified.

Please arrive early as seating is not guaranteed.

Rated R.

Keanu Reeves as John Wick and Ana de Armas as Eve in Ballerina. Photo Credit: Larry D. Horricks

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 – Review

Oh my, it looks like the animated critters have taken over the multiplex during this pre-holiday weekend. While Mufusa’s growls and roars are echoing through the hallways, another CGI-rendered creature is threatening to dash right off the screens. Now, they do have a few other things in common as they are both sequels, with this flick actually the third in a franchise. And it’s not based on a beloved thirty-year-old animated classic, but rather a still-adored video game dynasty (which predates THE LION KING by three years). Oh, and this one includes “real live” actors alongside the “pixel pals”. So what new kicks (and spins and dashes) are in store after two previous outings in SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3?

Well for one thing we’re introduced to a new character (to the film series that started four years ago). At a Tokyo Island G.U.N (Guardian Units of Nations) prison, a creature floating inside a liquid containment chamber is stirring after being dormant for fifty years. A heavily-armed squadron leaps into action but they don’t stand a chance when this black and red hedgehog named Shadow (voice of Keanu Reeves) breaks through the glass. Using his speed and teleporting powers (think Nightcrawler of the X-Men), he escapes into the night. GUN acting director Rockwell (Krysten Ritter) has to call in back-up, namely Sonic (vo: Ben Schwartz), Tails (vo: Colleen O’Shaughnessey), and Knuckles (vo: Idris Elba), a trio of small super-powered alien animals. The trio bids farewell to their adoptive parents Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter) and are whsked to Japan…where they’re defeated by Shadow. Before pursuing him, Sonic and his pals stop to “refuel” at a local eatery and are attacked by floating egg-shaped drones. Luckily they’re helped by a mysterious man in black. It’s none other than an old nemesis, Agent Stone (Lee Mahdoub). He informs them that that drones aren’t sent by his boss, then leads them to the floating underwater home (the “Crab”) of Sonic’s arch-enemy, the now flabby and disheveled Dr. Ivo Robotnik (Jim Carrey). Hearing of the appropriation of his tech he springs into action, theorizing that Shadow is returning to the long-scrapped GUN facility in England. The trio becomes a quintet as they discover the man behind the release of Shadow and the egg drone assault, Ivo’s long-lost grandpa Gerald (also Carrey). It’s all part of his plan to rule the world with his ultimate invention, a space arsenal satellite, the Eclipse Cannon. Can the Sonic crew shut it down despite its defender, the formidable Shadow, before it levels the planet?

Most of the cast (both live and voice) are returning after at least one previous installment of the franchise (and even a streaming series). Schwartz has that rapid vocal delivery to match Sonic’s jet-like speed as he spews wisecracks and zany retorts. Elba has a hesitant humorless stoic line-reading as Knuckles seems to take everything literally and needs to spell things out (like another Marvel staple, Drax). Shaughnessey exudes youthful enthusiasm and sweetness as Tails. This is the exact opposite of the dour, somber Shadow given the proper icy tone by newbie Reeves. The most prominent of the “live-action” actors is Carrey, who’s so frenetic they don’t try to contain him in one character. As Ivo, he’s still the superlative comic villain, full of snarky zingers and rubbery bits of physical schtick. But he’s also Grandpa Gerald the gravel-voiced manipulator who only wants to bond with Ivo to fulfill his dreams of world domination. Sumpter and Marsden are still an engaging couple though they’re on the sidelines for most of the action, only getting a chance to “step up” in the prelude to the big action finale. They’re the warm, nurturing counterpart to newbie Ritter as the tough-as-nails Rockwell. Mahdoub as Stone is still the over-accommodating doormat of a sidekick. Happily, we get a terrific cameo by Adam Pally as goofball lawman Wadw Whipple.

Also returning to the director’s chair for the third time is Jeff Fowler, who strives to keep the slapstick and verbal asides coming at us with the speed of the title character. And that works well for most of the story although the film stumbles a bit during the “ET-like’ flashbacks about Shadow’s friendship in the 70s with a pre-teen girl. It’s to establish Shadow’s arc, but it’s a tad clunky. As are a few other bits of business including a riff on Telenovelas that loses its spicy salsa satire. Ditto for an Ivo and Gerald bonding montage that stops the story in its tracks (plus I kept getting a Jim Gaffigan vibe from elder Robotnik). Other detours are non-sensical as when Tom and Maddie must pass themselves off as her aggressive sister and vain hubby. After so many sideroads the plot concludes in an outer space showdown that piles on the climaxes to the point of exhaustion (lots of action involving those golden ring portals). The youngest fans of Sonic and his various games and off-shoots will probably be amused and engaged, but for the older folks, it may feel like a big party at an unfamiliar office (which happens this time of year). Of course, we get end-credit bonus scenes, so as to hype up their fanbase for continued IP merch long after most have forgotten the few pleasures (mostly from Carrey) in SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3.

2 Out of 4

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 is now playing in theatres everywhere

Win A Family Four-Pack Of Passes To The St. Louis Advance Screening Of SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3

Sonic the Hedgehog returns to the big screen this holiday season in his most thrilling adventure yet. Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched in every way, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance in hopes of stopping Shadow and protecting the planet.

Director Jeff Fowler returns along with our all-star cast including Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, Adam Pally, Lee Majdoub, newcomers Alyla Browne and Krysten Ritter, with Keanu Reeves joining the franchise as Shadow the Hedgehog.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 is in theaters on December 20!

https://www.sonicthehedgehogmovie.com/home

Enter below to win one of 10 Family Passes (Each pass is good for 4 seats) to see the film early!

Please note the time as this is a Matinee Show that starts at 5PM.

The special advance screening is at 5PM on Tues, Dec 17th at B&B Creve Coeur West Olive (4pm Suggested Arrival)

PASS LINK: http://gofobo.com/fxWBd13910

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 has been rated PG for action, some violence, rude humor, thematic elements and mild language.

And “12 HOURS OF SONIC” WRAPS UP!

CHECK OUT THE EXCLUSIVE NEW HOLIDAY-INSPIRED POSTERS, “UGLY SONIC” SWEATERS, CHILI DOG FLAVORED CANDY CANES AND MORE!

He’s Back – JOHN WICK Celebrates 10 Years Of The Baba Yaga!

“People keep asking if I’m back and I haven’t really had an answer. But now, yeah, I’m thinkin’ I’m back”

In his 2014 Fantastic Fest review, WAMG’s Michael Haffner said of JOHN WICK, “there’s a new vengeful badass in town and his name is John Wick.”

The 10th anniversary of the John Wick marks a significant milestone for the franchise, and it’s exciting to see how it’s being celebrated. The film that started it all returns to theaters for two nights only on November 3, 2024 & November 6, 2024. and includes a sneak peek at BALLERINA.

https://www.fathomevents.com/events/john-wick-10th-anniversary

Directed by Chad Stahelski, when members of a notorious New York mob attack John Wick—a brilliantly lethal ex-assassin—and kill his dog, he hunts them down with the skill and ruthlessness that made him an underworld legend. The film stars Keanu Reeves, Michael Nyqvist, Alfie Allen, Adrianne Palicki, Bridget Moynahan, Dean Winters, Lance Reddick, Toby Leonard Moore, with Ian McShane, with John Leguizamo, and Willem Dafoe.

Having grossed $86.1 million worldwide, JOHN WICK was the 89th highest-grossing movie of 2014. Check out this behind-the-scenes action clip.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the anniversary’s highlights.

    BALLERINA: Opening in theaters on June 6, 2025, this prequel film is a major part of the anniversary celebrations. Taking place during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, the film follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas) who is beginning her training in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma. It stars It stars Ana de Armas, Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne, Lance Reddick, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Norman Reedus, with Ian McShane, and Keanu Reeves. The film has been praised for its stunning action sequences and its exploration of the franchise’s mythology.

      JOHN WICK PINBALL: The John Wick pinball machine is a fun and interactive way to experience the world of the franchise. It features iconic characters, locations, and weapons from the movies, and it’s a great way to test your skills and have fun with friends and family. Accompanying the high-quality film and audio assets woven into the gameplay, John Wick pinball games will include custom narration by critically acclaimed actor Ian McShane as Winston and an original score composed by Charlie Benante of Anthrax and Pantera fame.

        John Wick Experience in Las Vegas:

        Las Vegas prepares to welcome a dramatic new experience as the neo-noir world of John Wick arrives in The Neon City. Lionsgate is teaming up with AREA15, an immersive entertainment district located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, to transport fans into the JOHN WICK EXPERIENCE, a new attraction slated to open later this year. Franchise director Chad Stahelski and his team at 87Eleven Entertainment are collaborators on the project, making it a bona fide destination for fans. The experience is based on the billion-dollar John Wick motion picture franchise, which Stahelski also produces with Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee at Thunder Road Films.

        The JOHN WICK EXPERIENCE is an approximately 12,000-square-foot ticketed attraction located on the AREA15 campus, a curated collection of best-in-class immersive experiences, interactive attractions, events and entertainment. The new experience blends immersive theatre and highly themed cinematic environments to create an interactive journey that transcends reality. Guests step through the doors of the Las Vegas Continental and into the fantastical underworld of John Wick, where they navigate a high stakes adventure as well as visit a themed bar and retail shop open to the general public.

        Each group of guests will be tasked with specific missions, playing out in unique ways with characters, mythology and iconography from the Wick universe. They may rub elbows with Continental staff, assassins, crime bosses, or other curious guests like themselves within the relative safety of the Continental. Guests will be drawn into the culture, trusted with secrets, and invited to private areas of the Continental, promising an authentic and compelling action-packed experience.

        To bring audiences into the world of Wick, Lionsgate and franchise director Chad Stahelski are working closely with Egan Productions, the producer of the experience. A leading creator of escapes, attractions, and live events, with more than 20 years of expertise in all aspects of production and operations, Egan previously collaborated with Lionsgate on The Official SAW Escape, which opened in 2018 and has been named Best Escape Room by USA Today, and Escape Blair Witch, which opened in 2021. Along with The Hunger Games: The Exhibition, the JOHN WICK EXPERIENCE marks Lionsgate’s fourth Las Vegas attraction based on the studio’s beloved IP.

        “It’s always gratifying to see people embrace your story and characters, whether on the big screen or with a fully immersive experience like this one,” said Stahelski. “The teams at Lionsgate, AREA15 and Egan really dive into this world, and I’m excited that fans will experience it live in Vegas.”

        “One of the things I love about the John Wick franchise is the idea that there’s a whole world of alliances and vengeance hiding in plain sight – all converging within the worldwide locations of the Continental. This experience draws fans into that world like never before, and AREA15 is an ideal place for fans to live out the fantasy, action and danger portrayed in the films,” said Jenefer Brown, Executive Vice President & Head of Global Products and Experiences at Lionsgate.

        “We are enormously proud Lionsgate selected AREA15 for the JOHN WICK EXPERIENCE, which elevates our growing roster of premier experiences yet again,” said Winston Fisher, CEO, AREA15. “Now, we look forward to welcoming even more visitors and fans of the franchise. After all, you never know who you’re going to meet in Las Vegas and, with this addition, it will be even more mysterious, intriguing and mind-blowing.”

        “My entire team is thrilled to be working alongside Lionsgate to introduce yet another exciting attraction here in the entertainment capital of the world,” said Jason Egan. “Combining our talents with the creative genius of the films and a world-class venue like AREA15 will make the JOHN WICK EXPERIENCE a can’t miss destination for fans.”

        The launch of this experience comes as Lionsgate continues to expand the world of Wick, recently announcing a deal with Stahelski to assume creative oversight of the franchise across all multimedia platforms. In addition to the four hit films, the John Wick universe includes the television series The Continental: From the World of John Wick, one of Peacock’s biggest original launches of 2023.

        Overall, the 10th anniversary of the John Wick events is a great time to celebrate the franchise’s success and to immerse yourself in its world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

        It’s Flamethrower VS Firehose In The Brilliant BALLERINA Teaser Featuring Ana de Armas And Keanu Reeves!

        Ana de Armas as Eve in Ballerina. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate

        Eve Macarro: “You’re him. The one they call the Baba Yaga. How do I start doing what you do?

        John Wick: Looks like you already have.”

        From director Len Wiseman, check out this epic first look at the highly anticipated BALLERINA!

        Taking place during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, the film follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas) who is beginning her training in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma.

        The A-list cast includes Ana de Armas, Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne, Lance Reddick, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Norman Reedus, with Ian McShane, and Keanu Reeves.

        This terrifically cut trailer will give you goosebumps.

        This is epic, sexy and violent! And how nice to see Lance Reddick again! Flamethrower vs a Firehose!!!

        Fans can’t wait for this latest chapter of the franchise! The John Wick franchise has established itself as a cinematic powerhouse, known for its innovative action, memorable characters, and stylish aesthetic. If you’re a fan of adrenaline-fueled thrillers, the John Wick series is a must-watch. The 2014 film featured Keanu Reeves’ iconic performance, well-choreographed action sequences, and a captivating world-building. 2017’s JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 2 highlighted a memorable performance by Laurence Fishburne, while 2019’s JOHN WICK 3: PARABELLUM showcased stunning locations, and a relentless pace.

        While JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 provided an epic scale, jaw-dropping action, and a satisfying conclusion to the franchise, JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 5 is currently in development, with a release date yet to be announced.

        Based on Characters by Derek Kolstad and produced by Basil Iwanyk, Erica Lee, Chad Stahelski, mark your calendars as BALLERINA hits theaters on June 6, 2025.

        https://johnwick.movie/film/ballerina

        Don’t miss the next #BallerinaMovie update. Text +1(310) 564-8005

        Catch A First Look At Keanu Reeves As Shadow In First SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 Trailer

        Shadow (Keanu Reeves) in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

        Sonic the Hedgehog returns to the big screen this holiday season in his most thrilling adventure yet. Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched in every way, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance in hopes of stopping Shadow and protecting the planet.

        Director Jeff Fowler returns along with our all-star cast including Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, Adam Pally, Lee Majdoub, newcomers Alyla Browne and Krysten Ritter, with Keanu Reeves joining the franchise as Shadow the Hedgehog.

        SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 opens in theaters December 20, 2024.

        And check out the projections featuring images of Sonic, Shadow and the classic Robotnik icon which appeared in Chicago, Dallas, Frankfurt, London, Los Angeles, Mexico City, New York City, Rio de Janeiro, Rome, San Francisco, Seattle, Sydney, Tokyo leading up to the trailer debut.

        Both Sonic films have been successful at the box office, demonstrating the popularity of the character and the franchise.

        Sonic the Hedgehog (2020) set the record for the biggest opening weekend for a video game film in the United States and Canada.  The domestic gross was $148.9 million with a worldwide take of $319.7 million.

        Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022) surpassed its predecessor’s domestic gross and also performed well internationally. The domestic box office was $146.1 million, while the global box office was $337.2 million.

        Jim Carrey as Ivo Robotnik and Sonic (Ben Schwartz) in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

        Paramount Pictures Presents In Association with Sega Sammy Group

        An Original Film / Marza Animation Planet / Blur Studio Production

        SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 is based on the SEGA Video Game

        Sonic (Ben Schwartz) in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

        Lee Majdoub as Agent Stone, Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey), Sonic (Ben Schwartz) and Knuckles (Idris Elba) in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

        JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 – Review

        Keanu Reeves as John Wick in John Wick: Chapter 4. Photo Credit: Murray Close

        I’m guessing that a lot of action blockbuster movies aficionados have been thinking that the multiplexes have been pretty quiet this year so far. I mean the second AVATAR swam in just before the end of 2022. As usual, the Winter has seen lots of horror thrillers, plus a couple of superheroes swooped in for the latest installment of their respective franchises. Ah, now there’s another franchise that brings a smile to the “big stunt spectacle” film fans. The fellow at the tentpole’s forefront doesn’t have a “tech suit” or a sculpted rubber and cape ensemble. No sir, though his fighting attire is a simple black suit, filled with a massive arsenal. His skill is his “super-power”, as we turn the cinematic page to JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4.


        As the film opens the air (and the theatre’s audio system) vibrates from the pounding fists of Mr. Wick (Keanu Reeves) as he trains in the underground lair of his old pal, the Bowery King (Lawrence Fishburne). From there JW is dispatching the head of The Table in a quiet desert. But that assassin agency is tough to stop. Like the hydra of legend, another head pops up to take the last one’s place. Back in NYC at the sanctuary hotel, the Continental, manager Winston (Ian McShane) is startled by the arrival of the Harbinger (Clancy Brown), who orders the place to be evacuated in an hour’s time. With the aid of the concierge Charon (Lance Reddick), it is done. But Winston’s remaining “muscle’ is no match for the crew that serves and protects the High Table’s new head, the Marquis (Bill Skarsgard). He strips Winston of his duties and plans to demolish the establishment. The story shifts to Paris where the Marquis extorts a former agent, the blind assassin and friend of Wick, Caine (Donnie Yen) to track down his pal. But it turns out that he’s at the Continental…in Osaka, Japan. John is in hiding, under the protection of Koji (Hiroyuki Sanada), much to the ire of his daughter, the concierge Akira (Rina Sawayama). But the battle comes there as Caine, the Marquis’ elite guard, and a “freelancer” named Tracker (Shamier Anderson) attack. When their effects fail, Wick meets with Winston in NYC to hatch a plan. In order to earn his freedom, Wick will challenge the Marquis to a one-on-one”old-fashioned” duel. But Wick must be part of a “family” and since his “paper was torn” he must go to Berlin and be “reinstated” by the Ruska Roma. All of those “frequent flyer” miles finish on the streets of Paris as a city-wide chaotic war of skilled killers concludes with a final showdown at dawn.

        Whew! talk about “workin’ hard for the money” (I can almost hear Donna Summer crooning)! With his fourth outing in the tile role, Reeves proves himself to truly be a “man of action”, due to his stoic, very rare, line delivery. Actually, he may have less dialogue in this over the entire quartet of flicks. But yes, those actions speak volumes, whether he’s scoping out a plan of attack, or giving a look of aggravation as he tosses away another empty ammo cartridge (imagine if he got a “return deposit” on them, like the old soda pop bottles…oh the dough). Oh, but Skarsgard feels almost “chatty” as this story’s evil mastermind as he tries to temper a sadistic grin, while his evil eyes dart about, keeping everyone around “off balance”. He has the posture and manners of a fancy gentleman but inside lurks a rabid beast. The greatest addition to the series is Yen, as the reluctant nemesis. He relies even more on body language as his non-functional eyes are shielded by a pair of dark shades. Yen reserves his movement until he has a “purpose” and a “target” (that “head tilt” is the “go signal”). McShane is still silky smooth as Winston, though he’s placed more in the “center of the storm” here with everything to lose. He and the late, much-missed Reddick as Charot are a terrific team. And McShane is a nice counterpart to the boisterous flamboyant Fishburne as Wick’s “corner man” (or Alfred to JW’s Dark Knight). Other “newbies” of note are Anderson’s “dinero-driven” Tracker, who loves his bank statements as much as his loyal canine sidekick, Sawayama as the hotel (and Daddy) defender Akira, and Brown as the somber solemn Harbinger.

        To call this an action extravaganza would be a true understatement. It certainly subverts the old “law of diminishing returns” with sequels. By the time most franchises get to the fourth entry, they’re usually showing signs of fatigue. With this new outing they really want to give the fans lots (and I mean lots) of bangs (and fights and explosions and chases) for their bucks. Plus this may be the most “globe-hopping” of the series, rivaling the Bonds and Bournes, and Impossible Mission teams for the far-flung locales. The mayhem begins in the Big Apple, shifts to Japan, then to Berlin, before giving the “City of Light” a chance to shine, making the cinema setting feel fresh and replacing romance with danger lurking just past every bistro. “Upping the ante” considerably is returning director Chad Stahelski who gives the chaos a lush gleam via the expert showcasing of the exotic exteriors and interiors, from the palace of the Marquis to the neon cool of the Osaka hotel, to a stadium-sized techno dance hall bathed in glistening non-stop rain. Of course, as the carnage continues, the authorities are nearly non-existent, perhaps due to the power of the High Table, eh? Well, that’s a bit “nitpicky” since the legions of fans (are they Wick-warriors) will be ecstatic (and yes the “head shots” are staggering). I can imagine that the video storyboards for the stunt sequences were more intricate than most animated features. Big colossal kudos to the army of superb stunt people whose coordination and physicality rival all the dancers in the MAGIC MIKE trilogy. And praise must be given to the sound team (sitting in the back row I felt as though the vibrations gave me a nice “spine treatment” as a bonus). Sure, you may want to question the “physical endurance’ of the title character, but set aside science and buckle up for the high-octane thrill ride that is JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4.

        3.5 Out of 4

        JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 opens in theatres everywhere on Friday, March 24, 2023