“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.”
“Tai Chi Master” delivers the martial arts goods
Martial arts auteur Siyu Cheng delivers his latest action-packed fest in “The Tai Chi Master” from Well Go USA. The Tai Chi Master” examines the journey of Zhang Junbao, a dedicated disciple of Wuji, who emerges as a crucial figure during significant upheaval.
“Music By John Williams” gives a legendary Maestro his flowers
On a musical level, the documentary is a library of Williams’ great works. It’s dramatic performances of his most famous songs, such as the classic “Star Wars” marches, the grand piano music from “Jurassic Park,” and the melancholy music from “Schindler’s List.” Each song is part of a narrative, a call to revisit old films and remember their heart-wrenching connections. Its thrilling finale (which celebrated his work on “Harry Potter”) also underscores the longevity of his music among audiences today.