“Your Friends & Neighbors” explores the dark side of trying to keep up with Joneses
After being fired in disgrace and still dealing with a messy divorce from his wife Mel (Amanda Peet), who cheated on him with his former best friend Nick Brandes (Mark Tallman), hedge fund manager Andrew Cooper (Hamm) resorts to stealing from his neighbors’ homes in the affluent Westmont Village, only to discover that the secrets hidden behind the wealthy facades might be more dangerous.
“The Studio” is a witty take on the madhouse of Hollywood
Seth Rogen continues his successful relationship with Apple TV in his latest comedic series, “The Studio.” Rogen and his longtime collaborator, Evan Goldberg, direct all ten episodes and write three. Peter Huyck, Alex Gregory, and Frida Perez write the remaining episodes.
“O’Dessa” is an out of pitch genre mash up
Director Geremy Jasper attempts to modernize the rock opera genre in his sophomore film, “O’Dessa,” available on Hulu. Jasper also pens the film’s screenplay. Rising actress Sadie Sink portrays the titular character, a farm girl searching to recover a cherished family heirloom. She travels to a strange and dangerous city, where she meets her one true love, Euri Dervish (Kelvin Harrison Jr.). To save his soul, she must put the power of destiny to the ultimate test.
“Dope Thief” is a gripping crime drama
Academy Award nominee Peter Craig collaborates with fellow nominee Ridley Scott to adapt Dennis Tafoya’s novel Dope Thief for television. Airing on Apple TV, this eight-episode series stars Oscar nominee Brian Tyree Henry in the lead role and also features Wagner Moura, Marin Ireland, Kate Mulgrew, Nesta Cooper, Amir Arison, and Ving Rhames.
Sans the long run “The Gorge” delivers old school fun
Modern-day horror auteur Scott Derrickson stays in the genre for his latest “The Gorge” from Apple TV. Zach Dean pens the film’s screenplay, which was voted onto the Black List as one of the most-liked unproduced screenplays in 2020.
George Wallace & Laverne Cox shine in the enjoyable “Clean Slate”
The late esteemed producer Norman Lear has collaborated with Prime Video to present one of his final productions, the series “Clean Slate.” Developed by Dan Ewan, this series is set in Alabama and comprises eight episodes, each lasting thirty minutes.
“A Different Man” is a compelling study of the consequences of wanting perfection
Writer and director Aaron Schimberg delivers an engaging feature with his fourth film, “A Different Man,” produced by A24. In an era where image often precedes substance, “A Different Man” examines the complexities of identity, ambition, and the lengths individuals may pursue to realize their dreams.
“Juror No.2” serves as a solid swan song for director Clint Eastwood
Kemp serves on the jury for a high-profile murder trial involving James Michael Sythe (Gabriel Basso), who is accused of killing Kendall Carter (Francesca Eastwood). However, as the trial progresses, Kemp realizes that he may be responsible for the victim’s accidental death. Collette portrays Faith Killebrew, the Assistant District Attorney prosecuting the case.
“Beatles 64” hits all the right notes
Director David Tedeschi collaborates with esteemed producer Martin Scorsese to examine the significant impact of The Beatles’ inaugural visit to the United States in the documentary “Beatles ’64,” available on Disney+.
“She Taught Love” exemplifies the beauty of black love
Director Nate Edwards transitions from short films to narrative features with the compelling black love story “She Taught Love,” available on Hulu. Darrell Britt-Gibson, who also occupies the leading role, authored the screenplay.
“The Substance” is a glorious gore fest
Director and writer Coralie Fargeat has partnered with the esteemed actress Demi Moore for her second feature film, “The Substance,” which has been released by Mubi.
“Cruel Intentions” is a half-hearted reboot
Prime Video presents a beloved nineties classic with a new adaptation in the eight-episode series “Cruel Intentions.” Developed by Phoebe Fisher and Sara Goodman, the show is based on the 1999 film directed by Roger Kumble, a modern retelling of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ 1782 novel “Les Liaisons Dangereuses.”