Polite Society (2023)
87%RT Audience Score: 84%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Polite Society is a cinematic masterpiece that seamlessly blends British wit, Kung Fu action, and Bollywood flair into a deliciously entertaining film. Manzoor’s directorial debut is a triumph, showcasing her immense talent and leaving audiences eagerly anticipating her next project. The film’s central performances by Kansara and Arya are nothing short of brilliant, with their sisterly bond radiating off the screen and captivating viewers. While some critics may find fault with the film’s pacing or plot, it’s impossible not to be swept up in the contagious energy and unabashed joy of Polite Society. This is a must-see film that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
Polite Society is like a Bollywood movie, a British comedy, and a Kung Fu action film all rolled into one. It’s a fun and quirky celebration of sisterhood that will leave you feeling good. The plot is constantly surprising, and the performances by Priya Kansara and Arya are top-notch. While it may not be a black belt, it’s definitely a tasty snack that will satisfy your movie cravings. Overall, Polite Society is a great debut from director Manzoor and a promising start to her career.
Production Company(ies)
Focus Features, Parkville Pictures, Sister, Working Title
Distributor
Focus Features
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
SHOOT LOCATION(S):
London, England, United Kingdom
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 43m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Action/Comedy
Keyword(s)
starring Priya Kansara, Ritu Arya, Shobu Kapoor, Ella Bruccoleri, Seraphina Beh, Shona Babayemi, directed by Nida Manzoor, written by Nida Manzoor, produced by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Olivier Kaempfer, John Pocock, action, comedy, PG-13, box office gross $1.5M, budget unknown, reviewed by Claudia Puig, Stephen Romei, Ty Burr, Wendy Ide, Alison Willmore, Robert Abele, Matthew Simpson, Dann Gire, Sonal Pandya, Rubén Rosario, Wade Major, Jared Mobarak, British, Kung Fu, Bollywood, sisterhood, wedding heist, martial arts, parental disappointment, independence, partial nudity, sexual material, violence, April 28 2023 limited release, May 16 2023 streaming release, Focus Features, Working Title Films.
Worldwide gross: $2,445,289
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: $1,545,600
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $7,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $7,500,000
Production budget ranking: 1,767
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $4,038,750
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Ritu Arya – Lena
Shobu Kapoor – Fatima
Ella Bruccoleri – Alba
Seraphina Beh – Clara
Shona Babayemi – Kovacs
Director – Nida Manzoor
Producers – Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Olivier Kaempfer, John Pocock
Writer – Nida Manzoor
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Sundance
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (141) | Top Critics (40) | Fresh (128) | Rotten (13)
A fusion of British wit, Kung Fu action movies, and Bollywood… And a very sweet celebration of sisterhood.
May 17, 2023
Claudia Puig
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
TOP CRITIC
This 104-minute movie is a promising big screen debut from Manzoor, who is 33. It will be interesting to see what she does next.
May 8, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/5
Stephen Romei
The Australian
TOP CRITIC
It’s a crowd pleaser, certainly, and Manzoor and Kansara are talents to watch.
May 5, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Ty Burr
Ty Burr’s Watch List
TOP CRITIC
The pinballing plot is constantly surprising, and both Kansara and Arya sparkle in this kickass celebration of sisterly bonds.
April 30, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Wendy Ide
Observer (UK)
TOP CRITIC
Finally, all the angst of diasporic existence… can be confronted with a straightforward punch to the face. It’s a device that Polite Society can’t entirely pull off, though it’s still a good time.
April 29, 2023
Alison Willmore
New York Magazine/Vulture
TOP CRITIC
Manzoor…always finds an honest vibe to win you over, whether it’s sisterly camaraderie, youthful awkwardness or you’re-going-down spunk, which allows the abundant personality in her wonderful cast to hit all the necessary top notes.
April 28, 2023
Robert Abele
Los Angeles Times
TOP CRITIC
With great central performances, downright contagious energy, and a great story about what it means to be family, Polite Society is one not to miss.
May 18, 2023 | Rating: 8/10
Matthew Simpson
Exclaim!
A boldly deranged, multi-pop-cultural movie…
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/4
Dann Gire
Chicago Daily Herald
Priya Kansara shines in this fun yet uneven comedy.
May 17, 2023
Sonal Pandya
Hindustan Times
This tasty snack is no black belt, but it gives your comfort-food movie cravings a decent workout. It’ll do.
May 17, 2023
Rubén Rosario
MiamiArtZine
I love British comedies, I love Bollywood, and I love kung fu movies, but pack them all into one and it’s like jack of all trades, master of none.
May 17, 2023
Wade Major
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
Add the authentic love shared by Kansara and Arya and it’s tough not to come aboard for a madcap adventure that cements Manzoor’s talent as someone worth following.
May 5, 2023 | Rating: 7/10
Jared Mobarak
Hey, Have You Seen …?…
Plot
Action/Comedy follows martial artist-in-training Ria Khan as she attempts to save her older sister Lena from an impending marriage by pulling off the most ambitious of all wedding heists in the name of independence and sisterhood.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
NA
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Wild Beauty Mustang Spirit of the West 2023
Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West (2023)
97%RT Audience Score: 97%
Awards & Nominations: NA
In “Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West,” filmmaker Ashley Avis sheds light on the harsh realities of the wild horse population in America. While the documentary showcases stunning footage of these majestic creatures, it also exposes the cruel and inhumane treatment they face at the hands of humans. Avis’ passion for these animals is palpable, and her storytelling is both heart-wrenching and effective in raising awareness about the need for better methods of managing the wild horse population. This film is a must-see for anyone who cares about animal welfare and the preservation of our natural world.
If you’re looking for a documentary that will make you want to run through fields with wild mustangs, then Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West is the film for you. Not only will you get to see some majestic horse footage, but you’ll also learn about the plight of these animals and the need for better methods of dealing with them. Filmmaker Ashley Avis clearly has a soft spot for these creatures, and her storytelling will leave you feeling both sad and inspired. Plus, you’ll get to correct all your friends who think horses aren’t native to North America. Who knew?
Production Company(ies)
Izo, Social, VOD
Distributor
Gravitas Ventures
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
SHOOT LOCATION(S):
Montana, United States; Salt Lake City, Utah, United States; Nevada, United States; Wyoming, United States; Arizona, United States; North Dakota, United States; Colorado, United States; Oregon, United States; Texas, United States
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 39m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Documentary/Nature
Keyword(s)
documentary, nature, wild horses, Western United States, land, special interests, eradication, helicopter, habitat, family, Ashley Avis, directed by Ashley Avis, written by Ashley Avis, produced by Ashley Avis, produced by Edward Winters, Gravitas Ventures, Winterstone Pictures, box office, budget, reviewed by Tim Cogshell, reviewed by Robin Holabird, reviewed by Ryan Silberstein, reviewed by Hope Madden, reviewed by Valerie Kalfrin, MPAA rating, Ashley Avis as Self, Ashley Avis as Narrator, English, May 12 2023 Limited release, May 12 2023 streaming release, 1h 39m, cinematography, Ashley Avis as Director, Ashley Avis as Writer, Edward Winters as Producer, Richard Avis as Producer, horse footage, investigative journalism, on-the-ground, Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage, Rotten Tomatoes, audience score, Tomatometer, Vudu, Amazon Prime Video US, iTunes, rent, buy, buy now, trailer, photos, cast, crew, Ashley Avis as Ashley Avis.
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $7,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $7,500,000
Production budget ranking: 1,767
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $4,038,750
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Edward Winters – Producer
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Sundance
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (6) | Top Critics (1) | Fresh (6)
Indeed, one of the first misnomers that the documentary corrects is that horses are not native to North America – they are.
April 27, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Tim Cogshell
CineGods.com
TOP CRITIC
Avis and her movie asks for better and more accurate methods of dealing with the horses that roam free in Nevada and other states.
May 17, 2023
Robin Holabird
Robin Holabird
If the idea of learning about these animals and seeing some majestic horse footage is the reason to watch the documentary, the rest of it will get the audience riled up and on the side of the horses.
May 16, 2023
Ryan Silberstein
MovieJawn
Avis certainly does an effective job of spotlighting the plight of these animals and tugging at our heart strings. Hopefully her storytelling leads to positive change.
May 12, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Hope Madden
The Screening Room Podcast
[Filmmaker Ashley Avis’] affection for them is plain, down to the catch in her voice when she speaks of those who die during the roundups or later. When she sees sadness and betrayal in the liquid eyes of the captured horses, it’s hard to disagree.
May 12, 2023
Valerie Kalfrin
AWFJ.org
This is … a piece of on-the-ground investigative journalism … and it’s an effectively infuriating one, too.
May 12, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Mark Dujsik
Mark Reviews Movies…
Plot
Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West is a documentary that explores the plight of wild horses in the Western United States, as they face eradication and displacement from their natural habitats due to special interests and land disputes.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Rotten Tomatoes doesn’t have anything goofy or funny or odd to say about the film Signed in.
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La Civil 2023
La Civil (2023)
89%RT Audience Score:
Awards & Nominations: NA
La Civil is a film that delves into the dark and violent world of Mexican cartels, and it does so with a level of authenticity that is both impressive and terrifying. The film’s quiet and introspective scenes serve to heighten the tension of its sporadic moments of violence, making them all the more powerful. Arcelia Ramírez’s portrayal of a mother seeking justice for her abducted daughter is nothing short of breathtaking, and her character’s moral complexity adds a layer of depth to the story that is unusual in this type of film. While some critics have found fault with the film’s lukewarm and unrealistic ending, it is undeniable that La Civil is a gripping and powerful drama that offers a nuanced portrait of the culture of violence that has come to define modern Mexico.
La Civil” is a movie that will have you on the edge of your seat, but don’t worry, you won’t fall off because the tension will keep you glued there. The story of a mother’s quest for justice in a corrupt system is both heart-wrenching and thrilling. Arcelia Ramirez’s performance is so good, you’ll forget you’re watching a movie and start rooting for her like she’s a real person. The violence is brutal, but it’s not gratuitous, and it serves to highlight the dangers of taking justice into your own hands. Overall, “La Civil” is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good thriller with a side of social commentary.
Production Company(ies)
Foreign Language, Teorema
Distributor
Zeitgeist Films
Release Type
Filming Location(s)
Durango, Mexico
MPAA / Certificate
NR
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:2h 25m
-
Language(s):Spanish
-
Country of origin:Belgium, Mexico
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Mar 3, 2023 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): May 16, 2023
Genre(s)
Drama
Keyword(s)
La Civil, Drama, Spanish, Teodora Ana Mihai, Hans Everaert, Arcelia Ramírez, Álvaro Guerrero, Jorge A Jimenez, Ayelén Muzo, Juan Daniel García Treviño, Alessandra Goñi Bucio, Northern Mexico, criminal gang, mother, daughter, investigation, army Lieutenant, violence, corruption, mass grave, DNA analyses, kidnappers, avenging activist, emotional rollercoaster, true events, limited release, streaming, 2023, Zeitgeist Films, reviewed by Cath Clarke, Manuel Betancourt, Gary M Kramer, Hugo Hernández Valdivia, Erick Estrada, Carlos Bonfil, Alejandro Alemán, Anton Bitel, Rob Aldam, Rene Sanchez, Allan Hunter, Ricardo Gallegos, MPAA rating, box office performance, budget, producer Hans Everaert, written by Teodora Ana Mihai
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Álvaro Guerrero – Gustavo
Jorge A. Jimenez – Lamarque
Ayelén Muzo – Robles
Juan Daniel García Treviño – El Puma
Alessandra Goñi Bucio – Comandante Inez
Teodora Ana Mihai – Writer, Director
Hans Everaert – Producer
Director(s)
Teodora Ana Mihai
Writer(s)
Teodora Ana Mihai,
Producer(s)
Hans Everaert
Film Festivals
Cannes
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
Plot
La Civil follows a mother’s search for her daughter, who was abducted by a criminal gang in Northern Mexico, as she takes matters into her own hands and collaborates with an unconventional army lieutenant to uncover the truth.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Arcelia Ramírez gives an outstanding performance as Cielo, the mother who takes matters into her own hands to find her kidnapped daughter.
Teodora-Ana-Mihai.jpg
Linoleum 2023
Linoleum (2023)
91%RT Audience Score: 91%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Linoleum, the sophomore feature from writer-director Colin West, is a film that defies easy categorization. Mixing elements of domestic drama, science fiction, and comedy, it’s a movie that keeps you guessing until the very end. Jim Gaffigan delivers a fantastic performance as the film’s lead, anchoring the story’s flights of fantasy with a compelling portrayal of a man in the midst of a mid-life crisis. While the film may risk losing some viewers with its coy early scenes, it more than repays our patience with its intriguingly offbeat vibe. Overall, Linoleum is a smart, entertaining, and thought-provoking film that will leave you wanting to discuss it with others.
Linoleum is a movie that starts off slow, but don’t let that fool you. It’s like a rollercoaster that takes a while to climb to the top, but once it drops, you’re in for a wild ride. Jim Gaffigan’s performance is surprisingly dramatic and impressive, and the sci-fi elements add a unique twist to the domestic drama. While it may not be perfect, it’s definitely worth sticking around for the payoff. Plus, it’s the perfect movie to watch if you want to feel both nostalgic and sanguine.
Production Company(ies)
VOD
Distributor
SHOUT! STUDIOS
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
Kingston, New York, United States
MPAA / Certificate
NR
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 38m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Feb 24, 2023 Limited
Genre(s)
Comedy/Drama
Keyword(s)
Comedy, Drama, Sci-fi, Jim Gaffigan, Rhea Seehorn, Katelyn Nacon, Gabriel Rush, Michael Ian Black, Tony Shalhoub, Colin West, Chad Simpson, Dennis Masel, Chadd Harbold, written by Colin West, directed by Colin West, produced by Chad Simpson, reviewed by Kimber Myers, Christy Lemire, Noel Murray, Joe Leydon, Kyle Smith, Jeannette Catsoulis, Dennis Harvey, Travis DeShong, Russ Simmons, Nigel Watson, Robin Clifford, box office gross, budget, MPAA rating, midlife crisis, astronaut, children’s TV show, science, space-race, satellite, doppelgänger, surreal events, family drama, indie film, calling card, flights of fantasy, patient viewers, ambiguity, cinematic parlor trick, mysteries, comedic actor, dramatic role, science fiction elements, domestic drama, unexpected friendship, relationship strain, life story
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $5,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $5,000,000
Production budget ranking: 1,817
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $2,692,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Rhea Seehorn – Erin Edwin
Katelyn Nacon – Nora Edwin
Gabriel Rush – Marc
Michael Ian Black – Tony
Tony Shalhoub – Dr. Alvin
Director – Colin West
Producers – Chad Simpson, Dennis Masel, Chadd Harbold
Writer – Colin West
Director(s)
Colin West
Writer(s)
Colin West
Producer(s)
Chad Simpson, Dennis Masel, Chadd Harbold
Film Festivals
South by Southwest
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (63) | Top Critics (12) | Fresh (51) | Rotten (12)
With his second feature, writer-director Colin West has made the type of movie that you want to encourage people to see, not only for how good it is, but so that you have someone to talk about it with, with no danger of spoiling its surprises.
March 4, 2023 | Rating: A-
Kimber Myers
Crooked Marquee
TOP CRITIC
A fantastic performance from Jim Gaffigan. I really like this streak he’s on of playing unexpectedly dramatic roles.
March 3, 2023
Christy Lemire
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
TOP CRITIC
A minor-key domestic drama gradually transformed into something grander by its science-fiction elements.
February 24, 2023
Noel Murray
Los Angeles Times
TOP CRITIC
Jim Gaffigan’s compelling lead performance anchors Colin West’s free-wheeling indie without impeding its flights of fantasy.
February 24, 2023
Joe Leydon
Variety
TOP CRITIC
The mixture of forms isn’t quite successful, but Linoleum serves as an impressive calling card for its writer-director, Colin West, a relative newcomer.
February 24, 2023
Kyle Smith
Wall Street Journal
TOP CRITIC
So determinedly coy in its early scenes that it risks losing the audience before the midway point. It’s well worth sticking around, though, as this sci-fi-flavored family drama more than repays our patience.
February 23, 2023
Jeannette Catsoulis
New York Times
TOP CRITIC
Mixing the seemingly sweet with the dyspeptically sour—albeit more in a Donnie Darko kinda way, minus the vague undercurrent of horror—is Colin West’s sophomore feature, an intriguingly offbeat seriocomedy on the edge of fantasy…
March 15, 2023
Dennis Harvey
48 Hills
[Linoleum] jettisons the ruminative self-seriousness a more prestige-inflected drama might opt for, instead preferring a snug, pleasantly offbeat vibe that’s equally nostalgic and sanguine.
March 6, 2023
Travis DeShong
In Review Online
“Linoleum” may appeal to patient viewers who appreciate ambiguity.
March 3, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Russ Simmons
KKFI-FM (Kansas City)
Colin West gives us a mid-town, mid-life crisis movie that aspires to the profundity of 2001: A Space Odyssey but like Cameron’s rocket, it doesn’t quite reach those cinematic heights.
March 1, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Nigel Watson
Starburst
I, personally, found that the story gets too wrapped up in itself and takes some stumbles. But, it is an intelligent story that does not talk down to us, entertains and makes you think.
March 1, 2023 | Rating: B-
Robin Clifford
Reeling Reviews
While in the end it’s really nothing more than a cinematic parlor trick, for the most part it’s an intriguing one, even if a completely satisfactory resolution to its myriad mysteries proves elusive.
March 1, 2023 | Rating: B
Frank Swietek
One Guy’s Opinion…
Plot
Cameron Edwin, the host of a failing children’s science TV show called “Above & Beyond,” has always had aspirations of being an astronaut. After a mysterious space-race era satellite coincidentally falls from space and lands in his backyard, his midlife crisis manifests in a plan to rebuild the machine into his dream rocket. As his relationship with his wife and daughter start to strain, surreal events begin unfolding around him — a doppelgänger moving into the house next door, a car falling from the sky, and an unusual teenage boy forging a friendship with him. He slowly starts to piece these events together to ultimately reveal that there’s more to his life story than he once thought.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Jim Gaffigan stars in Linoleum (2022) as Cameron Edwin, a struggling children’s TV host and scientist who dreams of going to space.
Colin-West.jpg
Little Richard I Am Everything 2023
Little Richard: I Am Everything (2023)
93%RT Audience Score:
Awards & Nominations: NA
“Little Richard: I Am Everything” is a vibrant and captivating documentary that delves into the life and legacy of the rock ‘n’ roll icon. Lisa Cortés masterfully weaves together archival footage, interviews, and Little Richard’s own storytelling to create a comprehensive and entertaining portrait of the man behind the music. While the film covers a lot of ground, it never feels overwhelming or disjointed, and instead offers a nuanced and thoughtful exploration of Little Richard’s impact on music and culture. With humor, heart, and a deep appreciation for its subject, “Little Richard: I Am Everything” is a must-see for music fans and anyone interested in the history of rock ‘n’ roll.
“Little Richard: I Am Everything” is a rockin’ good time! This documentary does justice to the legacy of the one and only Little Richard, showcasing his incredible talent and larger-than-life personality. It’s fascinating to learn about his life and career, and the film does a great job of exploring both the highs and lows. Plus, you can’t help but smile when Little Richard himself appears on screen, telling it like it is and commanding your attention. If you’re a fan of rock and roll, or just great music in general, this is a must-see. And if you’re not a fan? Well, as Little Richard would say, “Shut up!”
Production Company(ies)
Bungalow Media + Entertainment, HBO Max, LGBTQ Stories
Distributor
Magnolia Pictures
Release Type
Streaming, Streaming (Hbo Max), Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
NR
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 38m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Apr 11, 2023 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 21, 2023
Genre(s)
Documentary/Music
Keyword(s)
documentary, music, biography, Little Richard, rock n’ roll, Black queer, innovator, originator, archive, performance, inner world, family, musicians, scholars, art form, self-expression, God, sex, omni being, everything, English, Lisa Cortes, directed by Lisa Cortes, produced by Lisa Cortes, Robert Friedman, Liz Yale Marsh, Caryn Capotosto, Magnolia Pictures, Dolby Digital, Tom Jones, Mick Jagger, Paul McCartney, reviewed by Sheri Flanders, Nick Allen, Candice Frederick, Dwight Brown, Drew Gregory, Peter Howell, Loren King, Roger Moore, Mike McGranaghan, Amber Wilkinson, Murtada Elfadl, Fresh Kernels, box office performance, budget, MPAA rating, producer names, critic names, writer names, actor names, genre
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $5,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $5,000,000
Production budget ranking: 1,821
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $2,692,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Mick Jagger – Self
Paul McCartney – Self
Little Richard – Self
Lisa Cortes – Director, Producer
Robert Friedman – Producer
Liz Yale Marsh – Producer
Caryn Capotosto – Producer
Director(s)
Lisa Cortes
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Sundance, South by Southwest
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (41) | Top Critics (13) | Fresh (39) | Rotten (2)
I enjoyed it immensely. And if you didn’t enjoy it, I’m pretty sure Little Richard would tell you to “Shut up.”
February 21, 2023
Sheri Flanders
Chicago Reader
TOP CRITIC
At its best, “Little Richard: I Am Everything” best fosters a general understanding of his music and makes you want to dig deeper into his art.
February 3, 2023
Nick Allen
RogerEbert.com
TOP CRITIC
This is one of those instances where a film thoughtfully reexamines previously established truths about a musician’s legacy so fervently that it completely upends you.
February 3, 2023
Candice Frederick
Huffington Post
TOP CRITIC
Little Richard’s legacy is a magnet and music fans will be drawn to this revealing doc.
February 1, 2023 | Rating: 3.5/4
Dwight Brown
DwightBrownInk.com
TOP CRITIC
This is a fitting tribute to a complicated Black queer icon who deserved more in his life and deserves more in his death.
January 31, 2023
Drew Gregory
Autostraddle
TOP CRITIC
Lisa Cortés delivers the definitive documentary on a complicated icon…
January 28, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Peter Howell
Toronto Star
TOP CRITIC
Little Richard often railed against his own erasure as the architect of rock-and-roll. The film makes a strong case for why that’s true and why he deserves his rightful place among rock-and-roll royalty. April 7, 2023
Loren King
Newport This Week (RI)
In covering all the bases, the film’s energy can’t help but flag in the later acts. But Cortes has made an impressive music history that restores a “king” to his rightful place in rock royalty
March 30, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Roger Moore
Movie Nation
The documentary is, like Little Richard himself, colorful, humorous, and wildly entertaining.
March 27, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Mike McGranaghan
Aisle Seat
There’s fascination and frustration to be had from this documentary about Little Richard, which is hampered by trying to encompass every single element of the rock’n’roll icon’s long and multifaceted 87-year life and legacy.
March 16, 2023
Amber Wilkinson
Screen International
Little Richard: I Am Everything critiques the star’s Christian evangelism, which strikes an unexpected note in these types of biodocs.
February 25, 2023 | Rating: A-
Murtada Elfadl
Mediaversity Reviews
Cortés’s craftsmanship and Little Richard’s fascinating ability as a storyteller elevate the film as a mighty, affirming declaration that the culture of rock ’n’ roll would not be where it is today without him.
February 14, 2023
Rendy Jones
Xtra Magazine…
Plot
Little Richard: I Am Everything is a documentary that explores the Black queer origins of rock n’ roll and tells the life story of the innovator and originator, Richard Penniman.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Little Richard himself appears in the film as a self-portrayal.
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The Eight Mountains 2023
The Eight Mountains (2023)
88%RT Audience Score: 86%
Awards & Nominations: NA
The Eight Mountains is a cinematic masterpiece that explores the complexities of male friendship with a refreshing lack of cliches. The film’s stunning cinematography and emotionally charged performances from the cast make for a truly unforgettable experience. While some may find the narrative to be overlong and familiar, the slow build towards a cathartic climax is well worth the journey. The film’s exploration of enduring friendships and the impact of childhood experiences is both poignant and thought-provoking. Overall, The Eight Mountains is a triumph of storytelling and a must-see for anyone who appreciates nuanced character studies and breathtaking visuals.
“The Eight Mountains” is a movie that will make you want to call your best friend and tell them how much you love them. It’s a heartwarming story of two men who have been friends since childhood and how their friendship evolves over time. The cinematography is breathtaking, and the snowy mountains will make you want to plan a winter vacation ASAP. While the movie is a bit long, it’s worth it for the emotional payoff at the end. Overall, “The Eight Mountains” is a must-watch for anyone who values friendship and beautiful scenery.
Production Company(ies)
Foreign Language
Distributor
Sideshow and Janus Films
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
SHOOT LOCATION(S):
Italy; Turin, Italy; Piedmont, Italy; Nepal
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:2h 27m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Drama/Adventure
Keyword(s)
starring Luca Marinelli, Alessandro Borghi, Filippo Timi, Elena Lietti, Surakshya Panta, Elisabetta Mazzullo, directed by Charlotte Vandermeersch, Felix van Groeningen, written by Paolo Cognetti, Felix van Groeningen, Charlotte Vandermeersch, drama, adventure, box office gross $92.4K, limited release, Sideshow and Janus Films, Flanders Audiovisual Fund (VAF), Rufus, Wildside, Menuetto Film, Elastic Film, Film Commission Regione Valle d’Aosta, Pyramide Productions, Screen Flanders, Canal+, SKY, Vision Distribution, Ciné+, reviewed by Peter Rainer, Christy Lemire, Wendy Ide, Tara Brady, Yasmin Omar, Kevin Maher, Rubén Romero Santos, Kathy Fennessy, Liam Lacey, Morgan Rojas, Ray Pride, Paul Whitington, MPAA rating not mentioned, male friendship, childhood, Italian Alps, mountainside cottage, reflection, reconciliation.
Worldwide gross: $9,390,511
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: –
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $7,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $7,500,000
Production budget ranking: 1,767
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $4,038,750
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Luca Marinelli – Pietro
Filippo Timi – Unknown
Elena Lietti – Unknown
Surakshya Panta – Asmi
Elisabetta Mazzullo – Lara
Director – Charlotte Vandermeersch, Felix van Groeningen
Writers – Paolo Cognetti, Felix van Groeningen, Charlotte Vandermeersch
Production Company – Flanders Audiovisual Fund (VAF), Rufus, Wildside, Menuetto Film, Elastic Film, Film Commission Regione Valle d’Aosta, Pyramide Productions, Screen Flanders, Canal+, SKY, Vision Distribution, Ciné+
Distributor – Sideshow and Janus Films
Sound Mix – Digital 5.1
Aspect Ratio – Academy (1.33:1)
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Sundance, Cannes
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (70) | Top Critics (29) | Fresh (62) | Rotten (8)
It is one of the few films I’ve ever seen that’s about male friendship without buddy-buddy backslapping, and that’s quite meaningful.
May 17, 2023
Peter Rainer
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
TOP CRITIC
God, I love this movie so much… A very deep and meaningful story of platonic friendship.
May 17, 2023
Christy Lemire
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
TOP CRITIC
Combines the earthy, rooted grit of Jack London with the vivid emotional landscapes of Elena Ferrante.
May 14, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Wendy Ide
Observer (UK)
TOP CRITIC
Narratively conventional, overlong and occasionally tangential, but it builds slowly and meaningfully towards a sense of catharsis that’s as big as the elevations of the title.
May 12, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Tara Brady
Irish Times
TOP CRITIC
It’s overlong, and overfamiliar, but remains a nuanced dual character study.
May 12, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Yasmin Omar
Empire Magazine
TOP CRITIC
Enduring male friendships and the legacy of childhood are examined in this swoon-worthy literary adaptation…
May 12, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Kevin Maher
Times (UK)
TOP CRITIC
Idealistic and relaxing… [Full review in Spanish]
May 18, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Rubén Romero Santos
Cinemanía (Spain)
Though I recommend the film for anyone interested in Sirk, Hüben’s German narration has a somniferous quality–I also recommend a shot of caffeine beforehand.
May 17, 2023
Kathy Fennessy
Seattle Film Blog
A sensitive, if somewhat grandiose drama, The Eight Mountains is an unusual portrait of life-long brotherly love.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: B
Liam Lacey
Original Cin
The snowy mountaintops, nighttime bonfires, and cattle farms evoke a sense of spiritual easiness, reminding us that people and the environment can co-exist peacefully.
May 16, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Morgan Rojas
Cinemacy
Te filmmakers (including cinematographer Ruben Impens) deliver with grace: sweeping if sometimes grandiloquent, “The Eight Mountains” is a patient, uncommonly tender triumph.
May 14, 2023 | Rating: 9/10
Ray Pride
Newcity
The Eight Mountains is a spectacular film, raw and moving, beautifully paced and shot.
May 12, 2023 | Rating: 5/5
Paul Whitington
Irish Independent…
Plot
After meeting as children in the Italian Alps, Pietro and Bruno reunite as adults to build a mountainside cottage, which becomes a site of reflection and reconciliation in the drama/adventure film, The Eight Mountains.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Rotten Tomatoes doesn’t say anything goofy or funny or odd about the film Signed in.
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Ant Man and the Wasp Quantumania 2023
Ant Man and the Wasp Quantumania (2023)
74%RT Audience Score: 83%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania mostly lacks the spark of fun that elevated earlier adventures, but Jonathan Majors’ Kang is a thrilling villain poised to alter the course of the MCU.
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, while lacking the same spark of fun as earlier adventures, offers a thrilling portrayal of a powerful villain in Jonathan Majors’ Kang. As an observer, I was struck by the commanding presence Majors brought to the character and his ability to alter the course of the MCU. The movie may not have the same level of levity as its predecessors, but Kang’s menacing portrayal is a highlight that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Overall, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is a must-see for fans of the MCU, and provides a glimpse into the exciting new directions the franchise is taking.
Production Company(ies)
MARV, Marvel Studios, The Walt Disney Studios
Distributor
Walt Disney Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Wide)
Filming Location(s)
London, England, United Kingdom; London M25 Loop, England, United Kingdom; Buckinghamshire, England, United Kingdom; Turkey; Los Angeles, California, United States; Los Angeles Thirty Mile Zone, California, United States; San Francisco, California, United States; Atlanta, Georgia, United States
MPAA / Certificate
PG-13
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:2h 3m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Feb 17, 2023 Wide
Genre(s)
Action/Adventure
Keyword(s)
starring Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Jonathan Majors, Bill Murray, Kathryn Newton, Michelle Pfeiffer, directed by Peyton Reed, written by Jeff Loveness, action, adventure, fantasy, comedy, PG-13, Walt Disney Pictures, Kevin Feige, Stephen Broussard, $120.4M box office, Dolby Atmos, Scope (2.35:1), Marvel Cinematic Universe, reviewed by Jake Wilson, Dwight Brown, Thelma Adams, Wenlei Ma, James Berardinelli, Tim Grierson, Jackie K Cooper, J Don Birnam, Sarah Marrs, Sarah Ward, Ant-Man, Wasp, Scott Lang, Hope van Dyne, Kang the Conqueror, Lord Krylar, Janet van Dyne, Cassie Lang, Quantum Realm, Michael Douglas
Worldwide gross: $475,841,596
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $447,578,428
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 336
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 48,808,989
US/Canada gross: $214,213,964
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $197,978,428
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 355
US/Canada opening weekend: $106,109,650
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $106,109,650
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 75
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Evangeline Lilly – Hope van Dyne, Wasp
Jonathan Majors – Kang the Conqueror
Bill Murray – Lord Krylar
Kathryn Newton – Cassie Lang
Michelle Pfeiffer – Janet van Dyne, Wasp
Director(s)
Peyton Reed
Writer(s)
Jeff Loveness
Producer(s)
Kevin Feige, Stephen Broussard
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (355) | Top Critics (69) | Fresh (169) | Rotten (186)
The more appealing thing about the whole enterprise is the mental image of these former A-listers hanging out between takes, swapping stories of the old days and competing over who least understands the script.
February 23, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/5
Jake Wilson
The Age (Australia)
TOP CRITIC
The thrill is gone. The Marvel Universe shoots a blank. A tiny one.
February 23, 2023 | Rating: 2/4
Dwight Brown
DwightBrownInk.com
TOP CRITIC
The visuals are so busy, the jokes so tame, the homilies so overfamiliar, the only option is surrendering to the chaos. But those pros Pfeiffer and Douglas up the game with an interstellar Romancing the Stone vibe.
February 22, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Thelma Adams
AARP Movies for Grownups
TOP CRITIC
A superhero epic of gargantuan proportions that overwhelms and overstimulates, but still manages to deliver some human emotions despite the CGI circus.
February 20, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Wenlei Ma
News.com.au
TOP CRITIC
The overall narrative is pedestrian but offers enough flashes, bangs, and general weirdness for those who prefer to sit back and absorb such things.
February 20, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/4
James Berardinelli
ReelViews
TOP CRITIC
“Quantumania” has greater stakes and a grander canvas than the more lighthearted previous chapters of the Ant-Man saga, and the film mostly negotiates the tricky tonal shift — even if the results are more predictable than spectacular.
February 20, 2023
Tim Grierson
Screen International
TOP CRITIC
A movie about Ant-Man & Wasp would do well to focus on Ant-Man & Wasp.
February 25, 2023 | Rating: 5/10
Jackie K. Cooper
jackiekcooper.com
In a universe with 20+ films, one of them has to be the worst, and Quantamania is a strong contender for that inauspicious title, lacking any emotional mooring or reason to care whatsoever
February 25, 2023 | Rating: D
J. Don Birnam
Below the Line
Ant-Man is for wacky capers and comic relief in Avengers movies, not exposition-heavy narrative centerpieces responsible for setting up the next three years of cinematic storytelling.
February 25, 2023
Sarah Marrs
Lainey Gossip
31 films deep in the MCU means there are bound to be a few duds. The barrage of overblown effects and a story devoid of emotion makes this entry a bottom dweller. The good news, Phase 5 can only get better.
February 25, 2023 | Rating: 2/4
Joe Friar
Fort Worth Report
Anyone who fears that too many blockbusters are becoming too similar won’t feel fortunate while watching… The MCU is going massive on Kang, patently; if only it’d kept the Ant-Man pictures small.
February 24, 2023
Sarah Ward
Concrete Playground
More sci-fi than superhero flick this time, taking cues from Star Wars and gets really fantastical. While it may not be the best in the series, it’s a totally fun installment and one that’s worth seeing on the big screen.
February 24, 2023 | Rating: 7.5/10
Paul Salfen
AMFM Magazine…
Plot
Super-Hero partners Scott Lang and Hope van Dyne return to continue their adventures as Ant-Man and the Wasp. Together, with Hope’s parents Janet van Dyne and Hank Pym, and Scott’s daughter Cassie Lang, the family finds themselves exploring the Quantum Realm, interacting with strange new creatures and embarking on an adventure that will push them beyond the limits of what they thought possible. The third installment of Disney/Marvel’s Ant-Man franchise. Based on the character from the Marvel Comics.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
In the original Ant-man film Cassie never saw Darren’s face (Yellow Jacket). Yet in this film as soon MODOK is revealed by Scott as Darren, Cassie calls him “the bee guy”. Which she shouldn’t know because she never saw his face. However, during the BLIP, Cassie had plenty of time to do research on many topics, and it is likely she would’ve looked up Darren’s CV, as he tried to kill her when she was six.
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Monica 2023
Monica (2023)
87%RT Audience Score: 87%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Monica, a film that explores the complexities of grief, family, and reconciliation, has received mixed reviews from critics. While some have praised the film’s nuanced performances and refusal to conform to conventional storytelling, others have criticized its slow pace and pretentious cinematography. However, as a highly intelligent and verbose critic, I must say that Monica is a tender character study that delicately navigates the struggles of the transgender community within the context of family. Director Andrea Pallaoro’s restraint in storytelling allows for the performances of Lysette and Clarkson to shine, creating a unique and universal experience that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. While some may find the film slow-moving, its deliberate pace allows for a deeper exploration of the themes at hand. Overall, Monica is a beautifully crafted film that deserves recognition for its poignant portrayal of the human experience.
Monica is a movie that will make you feel all the feels. It’s a heartwarming story about family, grief, and acceptance. The performances are top-notch, and the direction is subtle yet effective. Sure, it may be a bit slow-moving, but that’s just because it wants you to savor every moment. And let’s be real, we could all use a little more savoring in our lives. So grab some tissues and get ready to be moved by this beautiful film.
Production Company(ies)
LGBTQ Stories, VOD
Distributor
IFC Films
Release Type
Streaming, Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
SHOOT LOCATION(S):
Cincinnati, Ohio, United States; Ohio, United States
MPAA / Certificate
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 54m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:NA
Genre(s)
Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Trace Lysette, Patricia Clarkson, Adriana Barraza, Emily Browning, Joshua Close, Brittany Picard, directed by Andrea Pallaoro, written by Andrea Pallaoro, Orlando Tirado, drama, R rating, box office gross $27.9K, IFC Films, Alacran Pictures, Propaganda Italia, Varient, Melograno Films, Solo Five Productions, Fenix Entertainment, reviewed by Mark Jenkins, Tracy Brown, Peter Sobczynski, Teo Bugbee, Randy Myers, Niko Stratis, Murjani Rawls, Wade Major, Mike McGranaghan, Mike Scott, Todd Jorgenson, trans story, family drama, aging, abandonment, reconciliation, forgiveness, acceptance, courage, pain, fear, cognitive look, human condition, Dolby Digital, Gina Resnick, Christina Dow, Eleonora Granata-Jenkinson, produced by Andrea Pallaoro, Monica.
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $7,500,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $7,500,000
Production budget ranking: 1,767
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $4,038,750
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Patricia Clarkson – Eugenia
Adriana Barraza – Leticia
Emily Browning – Laura
Joshua Close – Paul
Brittany Picard – Mother
Director – Andrea Pallaoro
Producers – Gina Resnick, Christina Dow, Eleonora Granata-Jenkinson, Andrea Pallaoro
Writers – Andrea Pallaoro, Orlando Tirado
Production Companies – Alacran Pictures, Propaganda Italia, Varient, Melograno Films, Solo Five Productions, Fenix Entertainment
Sound Mix – Dolby Digital
Director(s)
NA
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Venice
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (32) | Top Critics (14) | Fresh (27) | Rotten (5)
Monica is moody, slow-moving and stronger on style than characterization, yet Lysette and Clarkson endow it with feeling.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/4
Mark Jenkins
Washington Post
TOP CRITIC
Monica is an intimate look at the complexity of grief, reconciliation and family.
May 15, 2023
Tracy Brown
Los Angeles Times
TOP CRITIC
A quiet, heartfelt, and beautifully nuanced drama that feels unique and universal.
May 12, 2023 | Rating: 4/4
Peter Sobczynski
RogerEbert.com
TOP CRITIC
Director Andrea Pallaoro doesn’t burden this delicate tale of reconciliation with long monologues or extensive back stories, and the performances are compelling in their restraint.
May 11, 2023
Teo Bugbee
New York Times
TOP CRITIC
Pallaoro refuses to tell this story, co-written by Orlando Tirado, in a conventional and tidy movie-of-the-week manner, which is evident even in the framing of individual shots where main character’s faces are sometimes cut off.
May 11, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Randy Myers
San Jose Mercury News
TOP CRITIC
Placing a uniquely trans story in the center of a well-worn road creates a path to a new sentiment to be granted to a tale that many people have and will face in their life.
May 8, 2023
Niko Stratis
Autostraddle
TOP CRITIC
There’s no need for the shock to be at the forefront – especially given so many instances centering around trans stories that based themselves on the cruelty of the world in which they exist. Beauty also exists, and it’s what ‘Monica’ makes room for. May 18, 2023
Murjani Rawls
Draftkings Nation
Pretentiously photographed, which takes away from the performances.
May 18, 2023
Wade Major
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
Monica is the kind of picture that builds empathy by depicting a few of the issues members of the transgender community face within their families.
May 17, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Mike McGranaghan
Aisle Seat
At its most basic, Monica is soft sigh of a movie, a tender character study built around smartly constructed moments.
May 15, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Mike Scott
Times-Picayune
Familiar themes of acceptance and reconciliation are given fresh relevance in this deliberately paced but quietly powerful family drama.
May 13, 2023
Todd Jorgenson
Cinemalogue
Pallardo’s film has such stringent narrative goals, yet proceeds nowhere and with nothing. Its vague and enervating plot purports to signify profundity, but only accomplishes the desultory.
May 12, 2023
Zachary Goldkind
In Review Online…
Plot
Monica returns home to the Midwest to care for her ailing mother, and through themes of abandonment, aging, rejection, acceptance, and forgiveness, we get to know Monica and her world in the emotionally resonant drama, Monica.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Rotten Tomatoes doesn’t say anything goofy or funny or odd about the film Monica.
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Scream VI 2023
Scream VI (2023)
87%RT Audience Score: 91%
Awards & Nominations: NA
Scream VI, the latest installment in the iconic slasher franchise, has left critics divided. While some have praised the film for its suspenseful set pieces and fun ride, others have criticized it for being too cliche-riddled and lacking in impact. However, one thing is for sure: Scream VI is not afraid to take risks and reinvent the series, even if it means becoming its own punch line. With a new generation of filmmakers at the helm, the future of Scream is uncertain, but one thing is certain: fans of the franchise will not be disappointed by the gore, meta rants, and surprising amount of fun that Scream VI has to offer.
Scream VI is like a rollercoaster ride that starts off slow and then picks up speed, but instead of loops and drops, it’s filled with jump scares and gore. While some critics may say it’s lost its touch, I say it’s still a fun time. Plus, who doesn’t love a good meta rant and a surprise twist? Just make sure to bring a friend to hold onto during the scary parts.
Production Company(ies)
Ensemble, Paramount Pictures, Project X Entertainment, Spyglass Media Group, Warner Bros.
Distributor
Paramount Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Wide)
Filming Location(s)
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
MPAA / Certificate
R
Year of Release
2023
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos, Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:2.39 : 1
-
Runtime:2h 3m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Mar 10, 2023 Wide
Genre(s)
Horror/Mystery & thriller
Keyword(s)
Scream VI, horror, mystery & thriller, R rating, directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, written by James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick, produced by William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, Paul Neinstein, starring Melissa Barrera, Jenna Ortega, Courteney Cox, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, Hayden Panettiere, reviewed by Kimber Myers, Wenlei Ma, Isaac Feldberg, A Tony Jerome, David Sims, Sara Michelle Fetters, Christian Toto, Andy Klein, Trace Thurman, JD Duran, box office gross of $75.9M, Dolby Digital and Dolby Atmos sound mix, digital 2.39:1 aspect ratio, Paramount Pictures distributor, 2h 3m runtime, Ghostface killings, Woodsboro, murderously meta franchise, inventive set pieces, change of setting, requel, core four, gnarly kills, total scream
Worldwide gross: $168,961,389
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $123,952,710
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 919
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 13,517,198
US/Canada gross: $108,161,389
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $83,952,710
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 836
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $35,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $35,000,000
Production budget ranking: 1,032
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $18,847,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): $70,105,210
ROI to date (est.): 130%
ROI ranking: 825
Jenna Ortega – Tara Carpenter
Courteney Cox – Gale Weathers
Jasmin Savoy Brown – Mindy Meeks-Martin
Mason Gooding – Chad Meeks-Martin
Hayden Panettiere – Kirby Reed
Director – Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett
Producers – William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, Paul Neinstein
Writers – James Vanderbilt, Guy Busick
Director(s)
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett
Writer(s)
James Vanderbilt, Guy Busick
Producer(s)
William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, Paul Neinstein
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (266) | Top Critics (57) | Fresh (206) | Rotten (60)
With Scream VI, Scream (2022) filmmakers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett are so interested in reinventing Wes Craven’s saga and keeping audiences guessing and grossed out that they’ve made a film that makes no impact at all.
March 21, 2023 | Rating: D+
Kimber Myers
Crooked Marquee
TOP CRITIC
Don’t be shocked if there are more laughs and whoops in the cinema than there are shrieks and gasps – but Scream has never tried to take itself too seriously which has always been part of the charm.
March 19, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Wenlei Ma
News.com.au
TOP CRITIC
Too cliche-riddled and irony-poisoned to avoid collapsing into exactly the sort of artificial franchise extension Craven would have slashed to ribbons.
March 18, 2023 | Rating: C-
Isaac Feldberg
Above the Line
TOP CRITIC
You’re gonna get your classic killings, the violence of which is three looking-through-my-hands worthy.
March 13, 2023
A. Tony Jerome
Autostraddle
TOP CRITIC
There just isn’t enough juice behind the stagecraft. The Scream movies have thrived because they’ve always stayed one step ahead of their source material — but as the franchise grows more bloated, they risk becoming their own punch line.
March 13, 2023
David Sims
The Atlantic
TOP CRITIC
Scream VI shows there’s still life in this series, and now that a new generation has been given control of the story, I’m curious to see where things go next.
March 13, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Sara Michelle Fetters
MovieFreak.com
TOP CRITIC
Slasher franchise brings meta rants, gore and surprising amount of fun.
March 22, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/4
Christian Toto
HollywoodInToto.com
The first one that is really a step down… Having said that, it’s still a fun ride.
March 21, 2023
Andy Klein
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
Pull Quote: With higher stakes and some truly suspenseful (and fun!) set pieces, Scream VI might be the best Scream sequel since Scream 2.
March 21, 2023 | Rating: 4.5/5
Trace Thurman
Horror Queers Podcast
SCREAM VI is painting with a broader brush in regards to franchises while also channeling what was so great about SCREAM 2.
March 21, 2023 | Rating: B+
JD Duran
InSession Film
I really enjoyed this and appreciated that the new setting gave the series new blood. There’s a lot of things that didn’t add up but it’s so much fun that I can ignore it for the most part.
March 19, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Justin Brown
Medium Popcorn
For the sixth entry in the series, this was a great adjustment from the past two entries in giving us a new setting and an incredible opening sequence. My main gripe is that the writers have to do better with the “murder mystery” element…
March 19, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Brandon Collins
Medium Popcorn…
Plot
Sam, Mindy, Chad, and Tara – four survivors of the most recent batch of Ghostface killings – leave Woodsboro behind and start a fresh chapter in New York City. Sixth installment in the Scream franchise.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
All entries contain spoilers
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Tetris 2023
Tetris (2023)
87%RT Audience Score: 88%
Awards & Nominations: NA
“Tetris” is a film that takes the audience on a nostalgic journey back to the 80s, where the classic game was born. Director Jon S Baird does an excellent job of capturing the graphic style and music of the era, making it a fun and entertaining watch. Taron Egerton’s performance is commendable, and he fits perfectly into the story of the game’s origins. However, the film does have its flaws, with some critics noting that it lacks originality and occasionally drops “Tetris” pieces or inserts animated 8-bit elements into the frame. Despite this, “Tetris” is an intriguing and interesting film that captures the excitement of being on the cusp of a technological breakthrough.
Who knew a movie about Tetris could be so intriguing? Apparently, the critics did. Taron Egerton’s performance is being hailed as one of his best, and the film captures the excitement of being on the brink of a technological breakthrough. Sure, it may not be the most original movie out there, but it’s definitely worth a watch. Plus, who doesn’t love a good game of Tetris?
Production Company(ies)
Disney+, MARV, Original Film
Distributor
Distributor: Apple TV+
Release Type
Streaming
Filming Location(s)
Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom; Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
MPAA / Certificate
R
Year of Release
2023
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Color:Color
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Sound mix:Dolby Digital, Dolby
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Aspect ratio:2.39:1
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Runtime:1h 58m
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Language(s):English
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Country of origin:United Kingdom
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Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Mar 24, 2023 Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Mar 31, 2023
Genre(s)
Mystery & thriller/Biography
Keyword(s)
starring Taron Egerton, Nikita Efremov, Toby Jones, Sofya Lebedeva, Ben Miles, Rick Yune, directed by Jon S Baird, written by Noah Pink, mystery, thriller, biography, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Richard Roeper, Wendy Ide, Stephanie Zacharek, Ty Burr, Adam Graham, Brian Lowry, Stephen Silver, Shawn Edwards, Lael Loewenstein, Wade Major, Frank Wilkins, producer Gillian Berrie, Len Blavatnik, Gregor Cameron, Claudia Schiffer, Matthew Vaughn, MPAA rating R, Henk Rogers, Alexey Pazhitnov, Cold War-era thriller, video game, Soviet Union, inventor, double-crossing villains, unlikely heroes, nail-biting race to the finish, Dolby Digital, limited release, streaming on Apple TV+
Worldwide gross: NA
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: NA
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $25,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $25,000,000
Production budget ranking: 1,227
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $13,462,500
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Nikita Efremov – Alexey Pajitnov
Toby Jones – Robert Stein
Sofya Lebedeva – Sasha
Ben Miles – Howard Lincoln
Rick Yune – Larry
Director – Jon S. Baird
Producers – Gillian Berrie, Len Blavatnik, Gregor Cameron, Claudia Schiffer, Matthew Vaughn
Writer – Noah Pink
Director(s)
Jon S. Baird
Writer(s)
Noah Pink
Producer(s)
Gillian Berrie, Len Blavatnik, Gregor Cameron, Claudia Schiffer, Matthew Vaughn
Film Festivals
South by Southwest
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (168) | Top Critics (36) | Fresh (137) | Rotten (31)
Taron Egerton fits perfectly into story of the classic game’s origins.
April 3, 2023 | Rating: 3/4
Richard Roeper
Chicago Sun-Times
TOP CRITIC
Director Jon S Baird harnesses the graphic style and plinky plonk music of 80s computer games to amusing effect.
April 2, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Wendy Ide
Observer (UK)
TOP CRITIC
In movie terms, it all works, and Egerton and Efremov are wonderful.
April 1, 2023
Stephanie Zacharek
TIME Magazine
TOP CRITIC
It settles down into an engagingly paranoid 8-bit variation on “Bridge of Spies”…
April 1, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/4
Ty Burr
Ty Burr’s Watch List
TOP CRITIC
Baird occasionally drops “Tetris” pieces or inserts animated 8-bit elements into the frame, because otherwise the movie is a lot of drab interiors and conversations about rights, contracts and business ethics. It’s not enough…
March 31, 2023 | Rating: C
Adam Graham
Detroit News
TOP CRITIC
Tetris isn’t a perfect movie, but for the purposes of justifying Apple TV+’s investment, it stacks up just fine.
March 31, 2023
Brian Lowry
CNN.com
TOP CRITIC
A fun but complex romp about how different factions around the world, from the U.S. to Japan to Britain to the Soviet Union, all wanted a piece of that addictive video game.
April 10, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Stephen Silver
Splice Today
“Tetris” is intriguing and interesting. Gets a bit espionagy but it’s totally fascinating. Taron Egerton completely commits and sneakily delivers perhaps the best performance of his career.
April 8, 2023 | Rating: 4/5
Shawn Edwards
Fox 4 Kansas City
The film really captures being on the cusp of a technological breakthrough… Quite entertaining.
April 7, 2023
Lael Loewenstein
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
They’re pushing the dramatization beyond what actually happened, but that said it’s an awful lot of fun.
April 7, 2023
Wade Major
FilmWeek (KPCC – NPR Los Angeles)
Were it about anything other than a silly 8-bit game we’ve all played a million times, it probably wouldn’t work as well as it does.
April 7, 2023 | Rating: 3/5
Frank Wilkins
Reel Reviews
Despite its interesting story and Taron Egerton’s commendable performance, it lacks the originality that characterized its source of inspiration. [Full Review in Spanish]
April 7, 2023 | Rating: 2.5/4
Rene Sanchez
Cine Sin Fronteras…
Plot
“Tetris” tells the true story of Henk Rogers, who risks everything to bring the popular video game to the masses by traveling to the Soviet Union and teaming up with inventor Alexey Pazhitnov.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Fresh Kernels mentions that Taron Egerton fits perfectly into the story of the classic game’s origins in Tetris.
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