Review: "THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2" is a Truly Disappointing Sequel

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 9 of 2022 (No. 1821) by Leroy Douresseaux

The Addams Family 2 (2021)
Running time:  93 minutes (1 hour, 33 minutes)
MPAA – PG for macabre and rude humor, violence and language
DIRECTORS:  Greg Tiernan and Conrad Vernon
WRITERS:  Dan Hernandez, Benji Samit, Ben Queen, and Susanna Fogel; from a story by Dan Hernandez and Benji Samit (based on the characters created by Charles Addams)
PRODUCERS:  Gail Berman, Alison O'Brien, Danielle Sterling, and Conrad Vernon
EDITOR:  Ryan Folsey
COMPOSERS: Jeff Danna and Mychael Danna

ANIMATION/FANTASY/COMEDY/FAMILY

Starring:  (voices) Oscar Isaac, Charlize Theron, Chloe Grace Moretz, Javon “Wanna” Walton, Nick Kroll, Snoop Dogg, Bette Midler, Conrad Vernon, Bill Hader, Wallace Shawn, Brian Sommer, Cherami Leigh, and Ted Evans

The Addams Family 2 is a 2021 computer-animated supernatural comedy from directors Conrad Vernon and Greg Tiernan.  The film is a sequel to the 2019 animated film, The Addams Family.  Both films are based on the characters created by The New Yorker cartoonist, the late Charles Addams (1912-1988).  The Addams Family 2 focuses on the Addams Family as take a road trip, during which a scientist pursues Wednesday.

The Addams Family 2 opens at a school science fair.  There, Wednesday Addams (Chloe Grace Moretz) presents her experiment, in which she uses DNA from her pet squid, Socrates, on her Uncle Fester (Nick Kroll) to show how humans can be improved.  Wednesday is somewhat put off that her family:  father, Gomez Addams (Oscar Isaac); mother, Morticia (Charlize Theron); and her brother, Pugsley (Javon “Wanna” Walton) have decided to attend the science fair, which is sponsored by the Cyrus Strange Foundation.  Cyrus Strange (Bill Hader) himself appears at the fair as a 3D hologram, and he is instantly drawn to Wednesday experiment and hopes to recruit her to work for him.

Back at home, Gomez Addams worries that the children are drifting apart from him and Morticia.  He decides that a family vacation is just what is needed to keep the family together, so he declares that they are going on a road trip across the United States.  Uncle Fester, Thing (the sentient hand), and Lurch (the butler) join them on the vacation, with everyone packing into an huge, odd-looking camper.  Gomez even takes the family to Miami where he hopes Cousin Itt (Snoop Dogg) can help with the family dilemma.

There is a complication in these vacation plans, however.  Cyrus Strange is determined to have Wednesday, and sends a shady lawyer, Mr. Mustela (Wallace Shawn), and a brutish henchman, Pongo (Ted Evans) to trick Gomez and Morticia into believing that Wednesday might be Cyrus' child.  Wednesday is already having doubts about her connections to the Addams Family, so which family will she decide to choose, the Addams or Cyrus Strange?

Charles Addams' macabre cartoon characters first became “The Addams Family” in the former ABC television series, “The Addams Family” (1964-66).  I have been a fan of that series since I was a child.  As a child, I was also a fan of NBC's former Saturday morning cartoon series, “The Addams Family” (Hanna-Barbera, 1973).  That series depicts the Addams Family on a cross-country road trip, exploring the United States in their “Creepy Camper” that resembles their Victorian-style mansion home.  The Addams Family 2 is not a remake of that old cartoon series, but it does borrow a few elements from it.

The Addams Family 2019 was enough of a hit that producing a sequel probably seemed obvious to MGM, which holds the rights to produce Addams Family film and television series.  The end result is something that looks and feels like a sequel that was rushed into production.  The idea of Wednesday not being an Addams is a ridiculous plot.  I can certainly accept the notion of a precocious child wondering about her parentage and lineage.  However, if she is different from the rest of her family, it is because each member of the Addams Family is different from all others.  That is the point this film makes at end of the story, but we didn't need an entire mediocre movie to tell us that.  Raising questions about Wednesday's family is just a lame plot line.

So, it goes without saying that I did not like this film.  The Addams Family 2 ends up being the latest in a long line of pitiful Hollywood road trip movies.  I will say that the last 17 minutes of the film – before the end credits – are actually good.  It is the only time that the film has any real conflict, melodrama, or action, and what happens in these seventeen minutes is actually consequential to the both the Addams Family and a few other supporting characters.

The Addams Family 2019 is my favorite media adaptation of “The Addams Family” characters outside of the 1960s and 1970s.  It manages to be sweet, charming, heartwarming, and, of course, macabre – the way it should be.  I gave it a B+, but The Addams Family 2 bored the hell outta me until the last seventeen minutes.  I'm being generous giving it a C.

4 of 10
C

Wednesday, February 23, 2022


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved.  Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the ad below AND buy something(s).

Comics Review: The Army of Darkness 1979 #5 Ends the Series with a Battle Royale

THE ARMY OF DARKNESS 1979 VOLUME 1 #5
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Edu Menna
COLORS: Dinei Ribero
LETTERS: Troy Peteri
EDITOR: Joe Rybandt
COVER: Francesco Mattina
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Arthur Suydam; Junggeun Yoon; Stuart Sayger; Ken Haeser; Francesco Mattina
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (January 2022)

Rated Teen+

Army of Darkness is a 1992 comic horror film and the third film in the Evil Dead film franchise.  The film focuses on the series' lead character, Ash Williams (portrayed by actor Bruce Campbell), as he is trapped in the Middle Ages and battling an army of undead warriors.

In 1992, Dark Horse Comics released a three-issue adaptation of Army of Darkness, and in 2004, Dynamite Entertainment acquired the rights to produce comics based on the Army of Darkness film, featuring Ash as the main character.

The most recent Army of Darkness comic book in the Dynamite catalog is The Army of Darkness 1979.  It is written by Rodney Barnes; drawn by Tom Garcia and Edu Menna; colored by Dinei Ribero; and lettered by Troy Peteri.  In the new series, Ash Williams finds himself in late 1970s New York City.  Not only is he fighting his usual adversaries, the Deadites and the Necronomicon, but he is also caught in a turf war between rival street gangs.

The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #5 opens with Ash reminiscing.  Of course, it ends badly.  Back to reality:  Ash is now the leader of “The Half Deads,” and he's leading them against “The Warlocks.”  The problem is that Bishop, leader of The Walocks, is in possession of the Necronomicon … and former leader of The Half Deads, Lilith, is now Bishop's arm candy.

So now, it will take a battle royale of all the gangs of New York to stop Bishop and The Warlocks.  Can Ash lead them against an invasion of Deadites?  Can Lilith stay true … to someone?

THE LOWDOWN:  In July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department began providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #5, which is the fifth Dynamite Entertainment Army of Darkness comic book I have read.

Writer Rodney Barnes brings The Army of Darkness 1979 to a rousing conclusion.  It's his best issue of the series; not only is the action good, but issue #5 is the funniest.  Edu Menna also turns in the series' best art, topped by Dinei Ribero's hot colors.  It's all under a … dynamite Francesco Mattina cover.

When I finished reading Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #1, I didn't think I want more when I finished the final issue.  But Yes! to more Rodney Barnes Army of Darkness, I say.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Army of Darkness comic books and of the franchise, in general, will want to read The Army of Darkness 1979.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics
https://www.dynamite.com/htmlfiles/
https://www.facebook.com/DynamiteComics/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNOH4PEsl8dyZ2Tj7XUlY7w
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dynamite-entertainment


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

--------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the ad below AND buy something(s).

Comics Review: The Army of Darkness 1979 #4

THE ARMY OF DARKNESS 1979 VOLUME 1 #4
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Tom Garcia (pp. 1-12); Edu Menna (pp. 13-22)
COLORS: Dinei Ribero
LETTERS: Troy Peteri
EDITOR: Joe Rybandt
COVER: Francesco Mattina
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Arthur Suydam; Junggeun Yoon; Stuart Sayger; Francesco Mattina; Jamie Biggs
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (December 2021)

Rated Teen+

Army of Darkness is a 1992 comic horror film and the third film in the Evil Dead film franchise.  The film focuses on the series' lead character, Ash Williams (portrayed by actor Bruce Campbell), as he is trapped in the Middle Ages and battling an army of undead warriors.

In 1992, Dark Horse Comics released a three-issue adaptation of Army of Darkness, and in 2004, Dynamite Entertainment acquired the rights to produce comics based on the Army of Darkness film, featuring Ash as the main character.

The most recent Army of Darkness comic book in the Dynamite catalog is The Army of Darkness 1979.  It is written by Rodney Barnes; drawn by Tom Garcia; colored by Dinei Ribero; and lettered by Troy Peteri.  In the new series, Ash Williams finds himself in late 1970s New York City.  Not only is he fighting his usual adversaries, the Deadites and the Necronomicon, but he is also caught in a turf war between rival street gangs.

As The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #4 opens, Ash talks about the Necronomicon and his trials and tribulations with the book … to himself, but at least the members of “The Half Deads” street gang are listening.  Meanwhile, Lilith is trying to convince Bishop, leader of “The Warlocks,” that she has left The Half Deads and wants in on The Warlocks.  Bishop doesn't trust her.  Luckily (for him, not her), he now possesses the Necronomicon, which can judge if Lilith is being honest...

While waiting for Lilith, Ash and the gang happen upon the legendary club, “Studio 54.”  Suddenly, Ash has a case of “Saturday Night Fever,” but will his antics cause a “Disco Inferno?”

THE LOWDOWN:  Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department recently began providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #4, which is the fourth Dynamite Entertainment Army of Darkness comic book I have read.

With each issue of the series, writer Rodney Barnes digs deeper into late 1970s culture and pop culture and spins it into comedy gold.  Barnes is creating a comic book that is true to the spirit of the Evil Dead and Army of Darkness films.  It's not the scares that made this franchise; it's the snark and the fun.

The trademark Army of Darkness comic horror dialogue, ghoulish wit, and mockery lives well in Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1.  If this is your thing, hop in a comic book portal and join the fun.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Army of Darkness comic books and of the franchise, in general, will want to read The Army of Darkness 1979.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics
https://www.dynamite.com/htmlfiles/
https://www.facebook.com/DynamiteComics/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNOH4PEsl8dyZ2Tj7XUlY7w
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dynamite-entertainment


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

--------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

Comics Review: The Army of Darkness 1979 #3

THE ARMY OF DARKNESS 1979 VOLUME 1 #3
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Tom Garcia
COLORS: Dinei Ribero
LETTERS: Troy Peteri
EDITOR: Joe Rybandt
COVER: Francesco Mattina
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Arthur Suydam; Junggeun Yoon; Stuart Sayger; Francesco Mattina; Ken Haeser; Tony Fleecs and Trish Forstner
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (November 2021)

Rated Teen+

Army of Darkness is a 1992 comic horror film and the third film in the Evil Dead film franchise.  The film focuses on the series' lead character, Ash Williams (portrayed by actor Bruce Campbell), as he is trapped in the Middle Ages and battling an army of undead warriors.

In 1992, Dark Horse Comics released a three-issue adaptation of Army of Darkness, and in 2004, Dynamite Entertainment acquired the rights to produce comics based on the Army of Darkness film, featuring Ash as the main character.

The most recent Army of Darkness comic book in the Dynamite catalog is The Army of Darkness 1979.  It is written by Rodney Barnes; drawn by Tom Garcia; colored by Dinei Ribero; and lettered by Troy Peteri.  In the new series, Ash Williams finds himself in late 1970s New York City.  Not only is he fighting his usual adversaries, the Deadites and the Necronomicon, but he is also caught in a turf war between rival street gangs.

As The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #3 opens, Ash and “The Half Deads” street gang are getting the worst of it from rival street gang, “The Panthers.”  Even if the tide turns, “The Mrs. Bradys” are waiting to deliver their special brand of motherly love.

Not far away, the leader of “The Warlocks” is still in possession of the Necronomicon, and he sees this as a chance for world domination.  However, the rest of his gang just wants to use the dark magic for some creature comforts.  How will their leader deal with this dissension?  Meanwhile, the streets of New York City are in a panic and awash in meat puddles and bloody mush!

THE LOWDOWN:  Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department recently began providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #3, which is the third Dynamite Entertainment Army of Darkness comic book I have read.

This third issue of the series may be the funniest yet.  Writer Rodney Barnes uses a two-page section that depicts a mayoral press conference and local TV reporter to deliver trademark Army of Darkness comic horror dialogue, ghoulish wit, and mockery.  Meanwhile, Tom Garcia draws his strongest art yet, so Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 is steadily pumping up the volume.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Army of Darkness comic books and of the franchise, in general, will want to read The Army of Darkness 1979.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics
https://www.dynamite.com/htmlfiles/
https://www.facebook.com/DynamiteComics/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNOH4PEsl8dyZ2Tj7XUlY7w
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dynamite-entertainment


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

---------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

Comics Review: The Army of Darkness 1979 #2

THE ARMY OF DARKNESS 1979 VOLUME 1 #2
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Tom Garcia
COLORS: Dinei Ribero
LETTERS: Troy Peteri
EDITOR: Joe Rybandt
COVER: Francesco Mattina
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Arthur Suydam; Junggeun Yoon; Stuart Sayger; Francesco Mattina; Tony Fleecs and Trish Forstner
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2021)

Rated Teen+

Army of Darkness is a 1992 comic horror film and the third film in the Evil Dead film franchise.  The film focuses on the series' lead character, Ash Williams (portrayed by actor Bruce Campbell), as he is trapped in the Middle Ages and battling an army of undead warriors.

In 1992, Dark Horse Comics released a three-issue adaptation of Army of Darkness, and in 2004, Dynamite Entertainment acquired the rights to produce comics based on the Army of Darkness film, featuring Ash as the main character.

The most recent Army of Darkness comic book in the Dynamite catalog is The Army of Darkness 1979.  It is written by Rodney Barnes; drawn by Tom Garcia; colored by Dinei Ribero; and lettered by Troy Peteri.  In the new series, Ash Williams finds himself in late 1970s New York City.  Not only is he fighting his usual adversaries, the Deadites and the Necronomicon, but he is also caught in a turf war between rival street gangs.

The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #2 opens in Central Park.  Now, in possession of the Necronomicon, The Warlocks and their gang leader are feeling powerful and start the killing.  Meanwhile, over in the South Bronx, Ash has taken up with a local gang, “The Half Deads.”  The plan is for Ash to help them take on the Warlocks and for them to help him recover the Necronomicon.  However, some of the other gangs are suspicious of both The Warlocks and The Half Deads, and the latter will feel that envy and wrath first.

THE LOWDOWN:  Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department recently began providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #2, which is the second Army of Darkness comic book I have read since I read the Dark Horse series decades ago.

The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #1 intrigued me, but it is in this second issue that the story starts to really come together.  Writer Rodney Barnes has brought in a hook or perhaps, thrown a wrench into the storytelling, and it is that everyone is suspicious of everyone's motivations.  The cliffhanger at the end of issue #2 makes me think that series writer Rodney Barnes has more crazy surprises in store.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Army of Darkness comic books and of the franchise, in general, will want to read The Army of Darkness 1979.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics
https://www.dynamite.com/htmlfiles/
https://www.facebook.com/DynamiteComics/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNOH4PEsl8dyZ2Tj7XUlY7w
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dynamite-entertainment


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

THE ARMY OF DARKNESS 1979 VOLUME 1 #2
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Tom Garcia
COLORS: Dinei Ribero
LETTERS: Troy Peteri
EDITOR: Joe Rybandt
COVER: Francesco Mattina
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Arthur Suydam; Junggeun Yoon; Stuart Sayger; Francesco Mattina; Tony Fleecs and Trish Forstner
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2021)

Rated Teen+

Army of Darkness is a 1992 comic horror film and the third film in the Evil Dead film franchise.  The film focuses on the series' lead character, Ash Williams (portrayed by actor Bruce Campbell), as he is trapped in the Middle Ages and battling an army of undead warriors.

In 1992, Dark Horse Comics released a three-issue adaptation of Army of Darkness, and in 2004, Dynamite Entertainment acquired the rights to produce comics based on the Army of Darkness film, featuring Ash as the main character.

The most recent Army of Darkness comic book in the Dynamite catalog is The Army of Darkness 1979.  It is written by Rodney Barnes; drawn by Tom Garcia; colored by Dinei Ribero; and lettered by Troy Peteri.  In the new series, Ash Williams finds himself in late 1970s New York City.  Not only is he fighting his usual adversaries, the Deadites and the Necronomicon, but he is also caught in a turf war between rival street gangs.

The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #2 opens in Central Park.  Now, in possession of the Necronomicon, The Warlocks and their gang leader are feeling powerful and start the killing.  Meanwhile, over in the South Bronx, Ash has taken up with a local gang, “The Half Deads.”  The plan is for Ash to help them take on the Warlocks and for them to help him recover the Necronomicon.  However, some of the other gangs are suspicious of both The Warlocks and The Half Deads, and the latter will feel that envy and wrath first.

THE LOWDOWN:  Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department recently began providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #2, which is the second Army of Darkness comic book I have read since I read the Dark Horse series decades ago.

The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #1 intrigued me, but it is in this second issue that the story starts to really come together.  Writer Rodney Barnes has brought in a hook or perhaps, thrown a wrench into the storytelling, and it is that everyone is suspicious of everyone's motivations.  The cliffhanger at the end of issue #2 makes me think that series writer Rodney Barnes has more crazy surprises in store.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Army of Darkness comic books and of the franchise, in general, will want to read The Army of Darkness 1979.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics
https://www.dynamite.com/htmlfiles/
https://www.facebook.com/DynamiteComics/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNOH4PEsl8dyZ2Tj7XUlY7w
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dynamite-entertainment


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

Comics Review: "JAMES BOND: Himeros #1" Hits You With Its Best Shot

JAMES BOND: HIMEROS #1
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Antonio Ruso
COLORS: Adriano Augusto
LETTERS: Social Myth Studios
EDITOR: Joe Rybandt
COVER: Francesco Francavilla
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Butch Guice; Francesco Francavilla;
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2021)

Rated T+

Based on the characters and stories created by Ian Fleming

“James Bond” is a fictional British Secret Service agent created by Ian Fleming, a British writer and novelist.  Fleming introduced James Bond in the 1953 novel, Casino Royale, and featured the character in 12 novels and two short-story collections.  Of course, most people know Bond because of Eon Productions' long-running James Bond-007 film series, which began with the 1962 film, Dr. No.

Over the past 50+ years, Bond has made sporadic appearances in comic books, but Dynamite Entertainment has been steadily publishing James Bond comic books since early 2016.  Their latest James Bond comic book is James Bond: Himeros.  It is written by Rodney Barnes; drawn by Antonio Ruso; colored by Adriano Augusto; and lettered by Social Myth Studios.  In Himeros, 007 finds himself caught in a web of powerful people who will kill to keep their child sex trafficking secrets from coming to light.

James Bond: Himeros #1 opens in Her Majesty's Prison Belmarsh, London.  Richard Wilhelm is imprisoned there.  He is the billionaire financier infamous for trafficking underage children from various parts of the world to his secret island in the South Pacific.  Before long, he is dead, and while he was murdered, the public is told that he died by suicide.

At MI6, M has called Agent James Bond to find Wilhelm's right hand man, Sarah Richmond, and bring her to London before the people that killed her boss kill her.  However, Anton Bates, the man who ordered Wilhelm killed, is well-connected to very powerful people, and he hires the best killers...

THE LOWDOWN:  Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department recently began providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is James Bond: Himeros #1, which is one of several Dynamite James Bond comic books I've read.

I am a huge fan of Himeros' writer, Rodney Barnes, because of his supreme vampire comic book, Killadelphia; his tragically canceled Marvel Comics series, Falcon; and his young Lando Calrissian comic book, Star Wars: Lando.  Barnes is very good at creating comic book stories in which the characters face tremendous consequences and have a lot to lose.  Barnes' narratives are also fueled a sense of dread and of menace.

Antonio Ruso's art and storytelling comes at the readers like lightning-quick punches, and Adriano Augusto colors capture the exotic settings and moods of traditional James Bond fiction.  “Himeros” is the Greek god of sexual desire, and after reading James Bond: Himeros #1, you will desire it, dear readers, and desire more.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of James Bond comic books will want to try James Bond: Himeros.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics
https://www.dynamite.com/htmlfiles/
https://www.facebook.com/DynamiteComics/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNOH4PEsl8dyZ2Tj7XUlY7w
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dynamite-entertainment


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

Review: "NO TIME TO DIE," But Plenty of Time to Bore

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 60 of 2021 (No. 1798) by Leroy Douresseaux

No Time to Die (2021)
Running time:  163 minutes (2 hours, 43 minutes)
MPAA – PG-13 for sequences of violence and action, some disturbing images, brief strong language and some suggestive material
DIRECTOR:  Cary Joji Fukunaga
WRITERS:  Neal Purvis & Robert Wade and Cary Joji Fukunaga, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge; from a story by Cary Joji Fukunaga and Neal Purvis & Robert Wade (based on the characters created by Ian Fleming)
PRODUCERS:  Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson
CINEMATOGRAPHER:  Linus Sandgren (D.o.P.)
EDITORS:  Tom Smith and Elliot Graham
COMPOSER:  Hans Zimmer
SONG:  “No Time to Die,” sung by Billie Eilish; written by Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell

SPY/ACTION/ADVENTURE

Starring:  Daniel Craig, Rami Malek, Lea Seydoux, Lashana Lynch, Ralph Fiennes, Ben Whishaw, Naomie Harris, Rory Kinnear, Billy Magnussen, David Dencik, Dali Benssalah, and Jeffrey Wright with Christoph Waltz

No Time to Day is a 2021 spy and action-adventure film from director Cary Joji Fukunaga.  It is the 25th entry in EON Productions' James Bond film franchise, and it is also the fifth and (supposedly) final film in which actor Daniel Craig portrays Bond.  In No Time to Die, James Bond is attempting to enjoy life after having left active service when an old friend asks him to help the CIA secure a dangerous new weapon.

No Time to Die finds former M16 agent, James Bond-007 (Daniel Craig), enjoying life after leaving active service with his lover, Dr. Madeleine Swann (Lea Seydoux).  While vacationing in Matera, Italy, Spectre assassins ambush Bond, and although he survives that attempt, he believes that he has been betrayed.  Bond blames Madeleine and leaves her.

Five years later, MI6 scientist, Valdo Obruchev (David Dencik), is kidnapped from an MI6 laboratory.  Obruchev was working on a bio-weapons project, “Project Heracles,” at the behest of Gareth Mallory (Ralph Fiennes), also known as “M,” the head of MI6.  In Jamaica, Bond's friend, CIA agent Felix Leiter (Jeffrey Wright), asks Bond to help him track Obruchev, but Bond refuses.  Later, Bond encounters Nomi (Lashana Lynch), the MI6 agent who has succeeded him as the new “007.”  After discovering more about “Project Heracles” via Nomi, Bond agrees to help Leiter find Obruchev.

Bond discovers that his old nemesis, Ernst Stavro Blofeld (Christoph Waltz), the founder and head of the criminal syndicate, Spectre, is somehow involved with Obruchev.  However, the true mastermind behind Obruchev's activities is a mysterious terrorist leader (Rami Malek) on a mission of revenge and harboring plans to kill untold millions of people.

Of the previous Daniel Craig James Bond films:  Casino Royale (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012) and Spectre (2015), the last two join No Time to Die to form some kind of Daniel Craig as James Bond life cycle.  When it comes to James Bond, I am not interested in s life story, origin tale, or death story of 007.  Craig is the first actor to play Bond who gets a swan song film.  All the other Bond actors did not get a goodbye movie; they simply left.

Although it has some good moments and some exceptional set pieces – in the form of extended action scenes – No Time to Die gets old and listless, especially after the action that takes place in Matera.  This film is also too long and too tired, especially wants the drama moves to Japan.  Even Daniel Craig, who is only 53-years-old, seems to be much older than he really his.  His body is tight, but his face is Beetlejuice.  It is as if everything about this film inadvertently says that both Craig and Bond are way past their expiration date.  In fact, both seem like spoiled milk.

No Time to Die has other problems.  Ray Fiennes, with his dour faced portrayal of “M,” only makes things seem more rundown.  Naomie Harris is utterly wasted as Eve Moneypenny.  Lashana Lynch cannot do much to save her utterly wasted and woefully underdeveloped character, Nomi, the new 007.  Jeffrey Wright seems like an out-of-gas old car as Felix Leiter.  As for Rami Malek: what could have been is so obvious in how much he gets out of so little.

On the other hand, Rory Kinnear brings some quiet energy as M's chief of staff, Bill Tanner.  As usual Ben Whishaw is top notch as “Q,” and I hope the Bond bosses bring him back in the next iteration of the franchise.  Also, Bill Magnussen provides an expected pretty boy, watermelon sugar rush as the bright-eyed CIA agent, Logan Ash.

In the final analysis, if I had to do it again, I would not go to a movie theater to see No Time to Die.  Don't get me wrong.  I am a huge James Bond fan and would see this movie anyway.  I will always find a lot to like even in Bond movies about which I have mixed feelings.  However, No Time to Die is the kind of Bond movie that I could have waited to see at home.  It is sad that Daniel Craig's tenure as James Bond did not so much end as it simply petered out.

6 of 10
B

Friday, October 8, 2021


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the ad below AND buy something(s).

Comics Review: The Army of Darkness 1979 #1

THE ARMY OF DARKNESS 1979 VOLUME 1 #1
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Tom Garcia
COLORS: Dinei Ribero
LETTERS: Troy Peteri
EDITOR: Joe Rybandt
COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Arthur Suydam; Junggeun Yoon; Stuart Sayger; Jason Shawn Alexander
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (August 2021)

Rated Teen+

Army of Darkness is a 1992 comic horror film and the third film in the Evil Dead film franchise.  The film focuses on the series' lead character, Ash Williams (portrayed by actor Bruce Campbell), as he is trapped in the Middle Ages and battling an army of undead warriors.

In 1992, Dark Horse Comics released a three-issue adaptation of Army of Darkness, and in 2004, Dynamite Entertainment acquired the rights to produce comics based on the Army of Darkness film, featuring Ash as the main character.

The most recent Army of Darkness comic book in the Dynamite catalog is The Army of Darkness 1979.  It is written by Rodney Barnes; drawn by Tom Garcia; colored by Dinei Ribero; and lettered by Troy Peteri.  In the new series, Ash Williams finds himself fighting his usual adversaries, the Deadites and the Necronomicon, in the late 1970s.

The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #1 opens in the South Bronx, circa late 1970s.  Several gangs, including The Half Deads, The Dominos, The Vikings, and The Mechanics, have called a truce in order to gather for a meeting.  Ace of the Dominos has a grand plan, and it is that the gangs should consolidate their numbers in order to rule the streets of New York City.  However, there is a new gang, “The Warlocks,” and they've decided that they can rule these streets by themselves.

Meanwhile, in Washington State, 2021:  Ash Williams is starting a new life in the hopes that he can retire and settle down – no more Necronomicon and no more Deadites.  One suddenly-appearing time portal, and Ash finds his ass in New York... circa 1970s.

THE LOWDOWN:  Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department recently began providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #1, which is the first Army of Darkness comic book I have read since I read the Dark Horse series decades ago.

I am a fan of The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 writer, Rodney Barnes, because of his 2017-18 Falcon comic book for Marvel, where he also produced a Star Wars comic book, Lando, about the early years of everyone's favorite casino/star hustler, Lando Calrissian.  Of course, I am only one of a growing legion of devotees of Barnes' apocalyptic vampire comic book series, Killadelphia (Image Comics), which he produces with artist Jason Shawn Alexander, who is also the lead cover artist on The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1.

The Army of Darkness 1979 Volume 1 #1 is an intriguing first issue simply for the fact that Barnes introduces a bad ass group of villains, the Warlocks.  Anytime, a writer can introduce evil into the world of  Army of Darkness, evil that is as fearsome as the Necronomicon and the Deadites, readers are in for some Ash-kicking fun.

Artist Tom Garcia's illustrations are wild and unkempt, which serves the innate craziness of Ash and Army of Darkness.  Dinei Ribero's trippy colors give the Deadites a maniacally homicidal glow that is perfect … for them, of course.  So I'm interested to see where the creative team is taking us as well follow a man with a chainsaw for his right hand.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Army of Darkness comic books and of the franchise, in general, will want to read The Army of Darkness 1979.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics
https://www.dynamite.com/htmlfiles/
https://www.facebook.com/DynamiteComics/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNOH4PEsl8dyZ2Tj7XUlY7w
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dynamite-entertainment


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

Review: CANDYMAN 2021 is a Good Horror Movie and an Even Better Black Movie

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 51 of 2021 (No. 1789) by Leroy Douresseaux

Candyman (2021)
Running time: 91 minutes (1 hour, 31 minutes)
MPAA – R for bloody horror violence, and language including some sexual references
DIRECTOR:  Nia DaCosta
WRITERS:  Jordan Peele & Win Rosenfeld and Nia DaCosta (based on characters created by Clive Barker and Bernard Rose)
PRODUCERS:  Ian Cooper, Jordan Peele, and Win Rosenfeld
CINEMATOGRAPHER:  John Guleserian (D.o.P.)
EDITOR:  Catrin Hedström
COMPOSER:  Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe

HORROR/DRAMA/FANTASY

Starring:  Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Teyonah Parris, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, Colman Domingo, Kyle Kaminsky, Vanessa Williams, Brian King, Miriam Moss, Rebecca Spence, Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Rodney L. Jones III, and Tony Todd

Candyman is a 2021 supernatural horror and slasher film from director Nia DaCosta.  The film is written by DaCosta and Win Rosenfeld and Jordan Peele of Get Out fame.  This new film is adapted from the short story, “The Forbidden,” by Clive Barker and from the 1992 film adaptation of Barker's story, entitled Candyman, which was written and directed by Bernard Rose.  Candyman 2021 is also a “spiritual sequel” to the 1992 film and is set in the now-gentrified Chicago neighborhood where the legend of the notorious and murderous boogeyman began.

Candyman is set in the Cabrini neighborhood on the North Side of Chicago.  Visual artist and painter, Anthony McCoy (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), lives and his girlfriend, Brianna Cartwright (Teyonah Parris), an art gallery director, live there, navigating the treacherous world of modern art.  But once upon a time, Cabrini was the infamous “Cabrini-Green Homes” (projects), which have now been gentrified beyond recognition.  Still, some sections of the old Cabrini-Green still exist near where Anthony and Brianna live.

Around Cabrini, there is a ghost story (of sorts) about a white woman, Helen Lyle, who went crazy and, among many things, kidnapped an African-American baby.  Anthony meets William Burke, a Cabrini-Green old-timer, and William informs Anthony of Cabrini-Green's true boogeyman, the supernatural killer, Candyman.  The story goes that if someone stares into a mirror and says Candyman's name five times, he will appear and kill that person.

With his art career seeming to stall, Anthony uses the horrific nature of the legend of Candyman as inspiration for a new series of paintings and art.  However, Anthony is unaware that he has unleashed something that will test his sanity and that has a shocking connection to his past.  And the brutal murders have begun.

Candyman is as much about African-American history and folklore as it is about the mythopoeia (mythology) of Candyman.  The writers focus on a world in which Black people, especially impoverished and powerless Black people, are moved around and used as pawns by the White supremacist power structure.  The history of the Cabrini-Green Homes is the perfect example.  For a long time it was low income housing i.e. the projects for African-American tenants, as seen in the original Candyman film.  Beginning in the mid-1990s, Cabrini gradually underwent a process of gentrification, and is now the setting of Candyman 2021.

The White power structure moved Cabrini-Green's poor and working class African-American tenants to other places in our world.  In the world of Candyman 2021, the great boogeyman of poor, Black folks that populated Candyman 1992 has been replaced by an urban legend of a new and incorrect boogeyman – Helen Lyle, who was really Candyman's ultimate victim in the original film.  Candyman 2021 corrects that, restoring Black folklore and stories via Anthony McCoy.

Director Nia DaCosta and her co-writers, Jordan Peele and Win Rosenfeld, as much as they deal with issues of cultural appropriation, Black art, and history, boldly tackle the racist violence of White supremacy, here, brazenly personified as White police officers and as over-policing.  Unlike the first film, which seems to (benignly) suggest that Black victims (Daniel Robitaille) become Black monsters (the Candyman), the victims in Candyman 2021 are mostly less sympathetic than Candyman.

As excellent as I think Candyman is as a “Black film,” it is less so as a horror movie.  The reason is that this new film does not play with the monster/victim dynamic, which the first film did via Helen Lyle and Candyman.  The victims are the bodies of Black folks, as seen in the scandalous shadow puppet animation (created by Manual Cinema) that plays across the end credits.  The monster is White racist and supremacist oppression of African-Americans.  In spite of this film's creepiness and weirdness, I still miss some old-fashioned final girl/slasher killer interplay.

In Candyman 2021, I didn't quite get the horror movie I thought I would get.  I got the Black movie that I very much needed to get.

A
8 out of 10

Friday, August 27, 2021


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

Read my review of the 1992 Candyman here.

----------------------------------------------------

Review: "The Addams Family" Gives the Middle Finger to Assimilation

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 1 of 2021 (No. 1739) by Leroy Douresseaux

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

The Addams Family (2019)

Running time:  86 minutes (1 hour, 26 minutes)

MPAA – PG for macabre and suggestive humor, and some action.

DIRECTORS:  Greg Tiernan and Conrad Vernon

WRITERS:  Matt Lieberman; from a story by Matt Lieberman, Erica Rivinoja, and Conrad Vernon (based on the characters created by Charles Addams)

PRODUCERS:  Gail Berman, Alison O'Brien, Alex Schwartz, and Conrad Vernon

EDITORS:  Kevin Pavlovic and David Ian Salter

COMPOSERS: Jeff Danna and Mychael Danna

ANIMATION/FANTASY/COMEDY/FAMILY

Starring:  (voices) Oscar Isaac, Charlize Theron, Chloe Grace Moretz, Finn Wolfhard, Nick Kroll, Snoop Dogg, Bette Midler, Allison Janney, Martin Short, Catherine O'Hara, Tituss Burgess, Jenifer Lewis, Elsie Fisher, Conrad Vernon, and Pom Klementieff

The Addams Family is a 2019 computer-animated comedy from directors Conrad Vernon and Greg Tiernan.  The film is based on the characters created by The New Yorker cartoonist, the late Charles Addams (1912-1988).  The Addams Family the movie focuses on an eccentrically macabre family and their interactions with the denizens of a colorful, but bland suburb.

The Addams Family opens as Gomez (Oscar Isaac) and Morticia (Charlize Theron) prepare to marry in front of their eccentric, odd, and weird family members.  However, the people of the local town despise the macabre nature of the happy couple and their family, and chase them away.  Luckily, the newlywed Morticia and Gomez and their companion, Thing (sentient hand), escape to New Jersey.  There, the trio finds two things.  The first is a home in an abandoned and decaying manor-style building that was once an asylum, and the second is a butler in the hulking Lurch (Conrad Vernon).

Thirteen years later, Morticia and Gomez have two children – a precocious and mordacious, Wednesday (Chloe Grace Moretz); and an explosives-loving son, Pugsley (Finn Wolfhard).  The family is in kind of a state of crisis.  Gomez struggles as he prepares Pugsley for his upcoming “Sabre Mazurka,” a rite of passage that every male Addams family member must pass.  Morticia struggles to keep Wednesday from wanting to experience the world outside the mansion, which includes the girl's desire to go to school.

Elsewhere, reality TV host, Margaux Needler (Allison Janney), is in the middle of building a perfect planned community that she is calling, “Assimilation.”  This is supposed to be the highlight of her television series' season finale.  However, when she discovers that the Addams' dilapidated home overlooks Assimilation, Margaux is determined to give their home an extreme makeover, whether they like it or not.  Meanwhile, many members of the Addams clan are gradually arriving in order to celebrate Pulley's big day.

I have been a fan of ABC's 1960s television series, “The Addams Family” (1964-66), since I was a child.  As a child, I was also a fan of NBC's Saturday morning cartoon series, “The Addams Family” (1973).  I have mixed feelings about Orion Pictures' two 1990s live-action films, The Addams Family (1991) and Addams Family Values (1993).  As an adult, I became a huge fan of the work of Charles Addams, especially of his delightfully macabre cartoons that featured the characters that would become known as “The Addams Family.”

The latest media iteration of these characters, the computer-animated The Addams Family, borrows elements from the Addams Family media that has come before it.  Here, the illustrative and graphic design of the characters and their world recall both Addams cartoons and the 1973 TV series, although I find the way this film's Morticia and Gomez look to be a little off-putting.  Overall, however, I find the look of this film visually appealing, and I think the Addams family's relatives are an interesting lot of inventively designed characters.

One thing that I think The Addams Family 2019 has over The Addams Family 1990s film franchise is that this animated film gets it right in the way it contrasts the Addams family against the outside world.  Charles Addams' best cartoons juxtaposed his creepy characters and their playfully insidious actions with the normal human world.  Much about the 1990s films was insular and did not send the family out into the normal world.  The second film did, at least, send Wednesday and Pugsley to summer camp, which is why I think the second film is much better than the first.

By sending the Addams down the mountain to meet their neighbors in this film, the filmmakers get to play with themes and ideas of individuality, conformity, acceptance, change, and family, which makes this movie more than just another cartoon romp featuring a bunch of strange characters.  Ultimately, The Addams Family 2019 emphasizes that a family can be made up of both different people and of people who live and act differently from the rest of the family.

This film's standout voice actor/character pairs are Chloe Grace Moretz as Wednesday and Allison Janney as Margaux Needler.  Nick Kroll delivers a killer turn as Uncle Fester, and Bette Midler takes what is a small role in Grandmama Addams and makes it feel like a major part.  Jenifer Lewis, with her commanding voice and delivery, turns Great Auntie Loom into a character that steals scenes.

The Addams Family 2019 is my favorite media adaptation of “The Addams Family” characters outside of the 1960s and 1970s.  I highly recommend this film to fans of the characters.  It does take a while for the film to get going – about 20 minutes into the story, but it manages to be sweet, charming, heartwarming, and, of course, macabre – the way it should be.

7 of 10
B+

Sunday, November 8, 2020


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved.  Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

-------------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the ad below AND buy something(s).

"The Addams Family" Soundtrack to Feature New Music from Top Recording Artists

MGM’S ANIMATED COMEDY ‘THE ADDAMS FAMILY’ WILL FEATURE ORIGINAL MUSIC FROM CHRISTINA AGUILERA, MIGOS, KAROL G, ROCK MAFIA & SNOOP DOGG

The Addams Family Will Be Released in Theaters on October 11, 2019

LOS ANGELES – Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) announced its upcoming animated comedy, The Addams Family, will feature original songs from global music superstars Christina Aguilera, Migos, Karol G, Rock Mafia and Snoop Dogg, among others. Based on the famous New Yorker creations of Charles Addams, the kookiest family on the block is back on the big screen with an all-star voice cast led by Oscar Isaac, Charlize Theron, Chloë Grace Moretz, Finn Wolfhard, Nick Kroll, Bette Midler, Allison Janney, Elsie Fisher and Snoop Dogg playing IT. Directed by Conrad Vernon (Shrek 2, Monsters vs. Aliens) and Greg Tiernan (Thomas & Friends, Day of the Diesels), The Addams Family will be released in theaters on October 11, 2019.

“Christina Aguilera, Migos, Karol G, Rock Mafia and Snoop Dogg are all powerhouse talents. We could not have asked for a better lineup of global superstars to help audiences embrace the weird and celebrate the absurd with two brand-new songs that perfectly compliment this fresh fun take on MGM’s beloved franchise, just in time for Halloween,” said MGM’s Motion Picture Group President, Jonathan Glickman.

The first Addams Family track to be released "My Family," is performed by Migos, Karol G, Rock Mafia and Snoop Dogg and will drop this Friday, September 13,2019. The song was written by Antonina Armato, Quavious Keyate Marshall, Carolina Giraldo, Danny Parra, Tim James, Calvin Cordozar Broadus, Jr. and Vic Mizzy and was produced by Rock Mafia. The track is being released by MGM Records and distributed by 12 Tone Music. "Haunted Heart," performed by Christina Aguilera, was written by Antonina Armato, Aguilera and Tim James and was also produced by Rock Mafia. “Haunted Heart” will be released later this month by RCA Records ahead of the film’s debut. Both songs will be available for streaming and \or download at all major music retail digital platforms.


About Metro Goldwyn Mayer
Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) is a leading entertainment company focused on the production and global distribution of film and television content across all platforms. The company owns one of the world’s deepest libraries of premium film and television content as well as the premium pay television network EPIX, which is available throughout the U.S. via cable, satellite, telco and digital distributors.  In addition, MGM has investments in numerous other television channels, digital platforms and interactive ventures and is producing premium short-form content for distribution. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

-------------------------

 

"No Time to Die" is the Title of the Next James Bond Film

NO TIME TO DIE is the official title of Bond 25

Daniel Craig returns in his fifth 007 film

James Bond Producers, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli today released the official title of the 25th James Bond adventure, NO TIME TO DIE. The film, from Albert R. Broccoli’s EON Productions, Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios (MGM), and Universal Pictures International is directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga (Beasts of No Nation, True Detective) and stars Daniel Craig, who returns for his fifth film as Ian Fleming’s James Bond 007.

Written by Neal Purvis & Robert Wade (SPECTRE, SKYFALL), Cary Joji Fukunaga, Scott Z. Burns (Contagion, The Bourne Ultimatum) and Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Killing Eve, Fleabag) NO TIME TO DIE is currently in production. The film will be released globally from April 3, 2020 in the UK through Universal Pictures International and in the US on April 8, 2020, from MGM via their United Artists Releasing banner.

NO TIME TO DIE also stars Rami Malek, Léa Seydoux, Lashana Lynch, Ben Whishaw, Naomie Harris, Billy Magnussen, Ana de Armas, Rory Kinnear, David Dencik, Dali Benssalah with Jeffrey Wright and Ralph Fiennes.

In NO TIME TO DIE, Bond has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when his old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA turns up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology.

Other members of the creative team are; Composer Dan Romer, Director of Photography Linus Sandgren, Editors Tom Cross and Elliot Graham, Production Designer Mark Tildesley, Costume Designer Suttirat Larlarb, Hair and Make up Designer Daniel Phillips, Supervising Stunt Coordinator Olivier Schneider, Stunt Coordinator Lee Morrison and Visual Effects Supervisor Charlie Noble. Returning members to the team are; 2nd Unit Director Alexander Witt, Special Effects and Action Vehicles Supervisor Chris Corbould and Casting Director Debbie McWilliams.

Press release from https://www.007.com/no-time-to-die-is-the-official-title-of-bond-25/

-------------------------

MGM Releases New Poster for Eli Roth, Bruce Willis' "Death Wish" Remake

From Press Materials:

DEATH WISH
Release Date: March 2, 2018
Genre: Action- Thriller
Director: Eli Roth
Screenplay: Joe Carnahan, based on a novel by Brian Garfield
Producer: Roger Birnbaum
CAST: Bruce Willis, Vincent D'Onofrio, Elisabeth Shue, Camila Morrone, Dean Norris and Kimberly Elise

SYNOPSIS:
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures presents director Eli Roth's re-imagining of the classic 1974 revenge thriller Death Wish.  Dr. Paul Kersey (Bruce Willis) is a surgeon who only sees the aftermath of Chicago violence when it is rushed into his ER - until his wife (Elisabeth Shue) and college-age daughter (Camila Morrone) are viciously attacked in their suburban home.  With the police overloaded with crimes, Paul, burning for revenge, hunts his family's assailants to deliver justice.  As the anonymous slayings of criminals grabs the media's attention, the city wonders if this deadly vigilante is a guardian angel or a grim reaper.  Fury and fate collide in the intense, action-thriller
Death Wish.

Paul Kersey becomes a divided person: A man who saves lives, and a man who takes them; a husband and father trying to take care of his family, and a shadowy figure fighting Chicago crime; a surgeon extracting bullets from suspects' bodies, and the vigilante called "The Grim Reaper" who detectives are quickly closing in on.

Updated from the original novel by Brian Garfield, director Eli Roth  and screenwriter Joe Carnahan's (The Grey, Narc) Death Wish also stars Vincent D'Onofrio (The Magnificent Seven, TV's Daredevil and Law & Order: Criminal Intent), Elisabeth Shue (Leaving Las Vegas), Camila Morrone, Dean Norris (Breaking Bad) and Kimberly Elise (The Great Debaters). It's a knife's-edge portrayal that challenges our assumptions, and pushes our buttons.

By bringing the complex psychology of Brian Garfield's book up-to-the-moment and injecting new thrills and a stark, unflinchinglook at the American psyche in 2017, Eli Roth and Death Wish brings audiences to the height of unforgettable suspense.

A Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures production, Death Wish is set for release on March 2, 2018.  It will be distributed in the U.S. by APR and internationally by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures.  Death Wish stars Bruce Willis, Vincent D'Onofrio, Elisabeth Shue, Camila Morrone, Dean Norris, Kimberly Elise.  Directed by Eli Roth.  Screenplay by Joe Carnahan, based on the 1974 Motion Picture by Wendell Mayes from the Novel by Brian Garfield.  Producer, Roger Birnbaum.  Associate Producer, Stephen J. Eads.  Executive Producer, Ilona Herzberg.  Director of Photography, Rogier Stoffers.  Edited by Mark Goldblatt.  Music by Ludwig Göransson.  Production Design by Paul Kirby.  Costume Design by Mary Jane Fort.

DEATH WISH Official Channels:
Website: http://deathwish.movie/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeathWishFilm
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeathWishMovie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DeathWishMovie 
#DeathWishMovie


----------------------------------

Bluefin Offers Realistic Hannibal Lecter Action Figures

BLUEFIN OPENS PRE-ORDERS FOR STUNNINGLY REALISTIC 1/6 SCALE HANNIBAL LECTER ACTION FIGURES FROM BLITZWAY

Cinema’s Most Infamous And Charismatic Serial Killer Comes To Life In Two New 12-Inch Designs Set For Release In Early 2018; Each Figure Features Over 30 Points Of Articulation And An Array Of Screen Accurate Props

Anaheim, CA – Bluefin, the leading North American distributor of toys, collectibles, and hobby merchandise from Japan, Asia and more, brings one of cinema’s most memorable villains to life as it opens pre-orders for BLITZWAY’s new line of 1/6 Scale Hannibal Lecter Action Figures.

Two poseable figures are scheduled for release in the First Quarter of 2018 and will be available from authorized Bluefin retailers nationwide and also from select leading online outlets. MSRP will be $269.99 each.

Two stunningly lifelike releases from BLITZWAY recreate actor Anthony Hopkin’s iconic portrayal of the forensic psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer, Hannibal “The Cannibal” Lecter. Bluefin first showcased the figures at the recent 2017 Comic-Con International. Savvy collectors are invited to enjoy them with some fava beans and a nice Chianti!!

The Silence of the Lambs is one of the most distinguished movies of all time. Released in 1991, directed by Jonathan Demme and based on author Thomas Harris’ book, The Silence of the Lambs starred Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, and Scott Glenn. The film was a major blockbuster and became the first American horror-thriller film to win Academy Awards in the top five categories.

Savor the realism of Hannibal Lecter depicted in a straitjacket and also in a pristine, white prisoner’s uniform (complete with a police officer’s nightstick). BLITZWAY worked with the world’s best sculptors to achieve an extremely high level of realism for each design. Each figure stands nearly 12 inches tall and features over 30 points of articulation to allow for a myriad of realistic posing possibilities.

For these releases, BLITZWAY recreated Hannibal Lecter in the most realistic way possible to express the compelling aura of the infamous character. BLITZWAY adds to the excitement for fans and collectors by including an array of iconic sets of props that add to the strong sense of nostalgia for the film.

The BLITZWAY Hannibal Lecter Straitjacket version features accessories including a white t-shirt with prisoner number 'B5160-8;’ 1 orange prison uniform with prisoner number 'B1329-0;' 1 screen-accurate straitjacket, as well as 1 iconic Hannibal face mask and an authentic movable gurney.

The BLITZWAY Hannibal Lecter White Prisoner Uniform version includes multiple interchangeable arm and hand accessories featuring a pen clip and nightstick accessories. Also included is a screen accurate chair, a pair of handcuffs, a folding knife, a fountain pen, a “Clarice” drawing prop, and a cathedral church drawing prop.

Based in South Korea, BLITZWAY specializes in highly detailed and intricately sculpted 1/6 and 1/4 scale figures and statues of famous characters from pop culture, comics, and TV and movies.


About Bluefin:
Based in Anaheim, CA, Bluefin built its reputation as a leading distributor of Japanese toys, collectibles, novelty and hobby products. In recent years, Bluefin has grown to include a range of high quality collectible lines from the United States, Hong Kong and Taiwan and established itself as the official North American consumer products and retail development partner for Studio Ghibli. Selling to thousands of specialty, chain and independent stores, Bluefin is an official North American distributor for Bandai Hobby, Bandai Shokugan, and Capcom, and is also an official provider of Bandai Tamashii Nations products, and is also the exclusive and official distributor for BLITZWAY, Mr. Hobby, SEN-TI-NEL, Storm Collectibles, and Iron Studios. Bluefin also represents TruForce Collectibles products worldwide. Additional information is available at: www.bluefincorp.com.

-----------------

AMC Theatres to Screen Two Roger Moore James Bond Films

AMC Theatres Proud to Celebrate the Life of Sir Roger Moore with Two James Bond Classics, The Spy Who Loved Me and For Your Eyes Only, as They Return to AMC and Odeon Cinemas

With Proceeds to Benefit UNICEF

LEAWOOD, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios (MGM), Park Circus and EON Productions and AMC Theatres (NYSE:AMC) are pleased to announce a series of special screenings in memory of Sir Roger Moore, to take place at AMC-owned cinemas across the U.S. and Eurpoe, including: Odeon Cinemas (UK) and AMC Theatres (U.S.) beginning Wednesday, May 31, 2017.

    “A generation of moviegoers across the US and UK remember Sir Roger Moore as their first James Bond. We are honored to celebrate his life with them in theatres next week with two of his most iconic films”

The newly restored 4K versions of The Spy Who Loved Me and For Your Eyes Only will be screened with 50 percent of all proceeds benefitting UNICEF. As a Goodwill Ambassador, Sir Roger had been a dedicated and passionate supporter of UNICEF since 1991.

"A generation of moviegoers across the US and UK remember Sir Roger Moore as their first James Bond. We are honored to celebrate his life with them in theatres next week with two of his most iconic films," Elizabeth Frank, Executive Vice President, Chief Content & Programming Officer, AMC Theatres.

Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli of EON Productions, long-standing producers of the James Bond films, said, “In honour of Sir Roger Moore, we are delighted these Bond screenings will benefit UNICEF which was the charity closest to his heart.”

Gary Barber, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, MGM, added, “Sir Roger Moore left an indelible imprint on audiences worldwide. There is no better way to remember Roger’s legacy than bringing back his iconic performances as James Bond to cinemas across the world while aiding UNICEF, the charity he steadfastly supported.”

Nick Varley, CEO of distributor Park Circus, said, “Park Circus is extremely privileged to be MGM’s library distributor and we are delighted to have the chance to celebrate the life and work of Sir Roger Moore through these screenings, and most particularly as it benefits UNICEF, an organization very close to Sir Roger.”

We would also like to thank Deluxe Technicolor Digital Cinema for kindly facilitating the delivery of this project to cinemas for us.

Details of screenings can be found at www.parkcircus.com and at participating cinemas websites.


About Park Circus Group
Park Circus Group is a leading all-rights sales agency and distribution company representing the greatest names in filmed entertainment. Our classic films distribution and sales divisions represent the major Hollywood and British studios including Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures Releasing International, Twentieth Century Fox, Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures and ITV Studios as well as a large number of independent producers and rights holders.

Our contemporary division finances, sells and distributes arts, cultural and independent feature films. Operating worldwide, the company aims to enable audiences to experience classic and contemporary cinematic content, through working with theatrical exhibition, television, digital and home entertainment partners.

About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) is a leading entertainment company focused on the production and global distribution of film and television content across all platforms. The company owns one of the world’s deepest libraries of premium film and television content as well as the premium pay television network EPIX, which is available throughout the U.S. via cable, satellite, telco and digital distributors. In addition, MGM has investments in numerous other television channels and digital platforms. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

About UNICEF
UNICEF works in 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of every child. UNICEF has spent 70 years working to improve the lives of children and their families. Defending children's rights throughout their lives requires a global presence, aiming to produce results and understand their effects.

About EON Productions
EON Productions Limited and Danjaq LLC are wholly owned and controlled by the Broccoli/Wilson family. Danjaq is the US-based company that co-owns, with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, the copyright in the existing James Bond films and controls the right to produce future James Bond films as well as all worldwide merchandising. EON Productions, an affiliate of Danjaq, is the UK-based production company which makes the James Bond films. The 007 franchise has produced twenty four films since 1962.

About AMC Theatres
AMC (NYSE: AMC) is the largest movie exhibition company in the U.S., in Europe and throughout the world with approximately 1,000 theatres and 11,000 screens across the globe. AMC has propelled innovation in the exhibition industry by: deploying more plush power-recliner seats; delivering enhanced food and beverage choices; generating greater guest engagement through its loyalty program, web site and smart phone apps; offering premium large format experiences and playing a wide variety of content including the latest Hollywood releases and independent programming. AMC operates among the most productive theatres in the United States’ top markets, having the #1 or #2 market share positions in 22 of the 25 largest metropolitan areas of the United States, including the top three markets (NY, LA, Chicago). Through its Odeon subsidiary AMC operates in 14 European countries and is the # 1 theatre chain in Estonia, Finland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Spain, Sweden and UK & Ireland. For more information, go to www.amctheatres.com.

---------------------------

"Comet TV" Now Available on Apple TV and Roku

COMET TV Launches the Best Selection of Science Fiction and Genre Content on Apple TV and Roku

App Expands COMET TV’s Footprint for Audiences Everywhere and at Anytime

BALTIMORE & LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sinclair Television Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBGI) (“Sinclair”), and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (“MGM”), partners in COMET TV, a science fiction broadcast network, jointly announced that COMET TV will be available on Apple TV and Roku through a newly downloadable COMET TV App, beginning Tuesday, March 21, 2017. COMET TV will continue its broadcast offerings to customers in over 100 markets as well as online at www.COMETtv.com

    COMET TV will be available on Apple TV and Roku devices through a newly downloadable COMET TV App. @WatchCOMET

COMET TV’s app will include live playback of the network’s broadcast feed with an integrated program schedule along with information on the current programming.

The expanded distribution allows COMET TV to reach more science fiction fans and entertain them with the network’s vast programming library including feature films such as: The Crow, Gattaca and Labyrinth. Television series include: “Stargate: Atlantis,” “Mystery Science Theater 3000,” and returning in April, “Stargate: SG-1.” Currently airing for the entirety of March is a selection of March Movie Badness movies, 36 classic science fiction and genre films airing as an alternative to college basketball programming elsewhere.

Apple TV Generation 4 and Roku 3 & 4 series equipment can be used to download the free COMET TV apps. Availability on additional digital platforms will be announced later this year.

COMET TV, a partnership between Sinclair and MGM, is the first-ever 24/7 science fiction digital broadcast network and features more than 1,500 hours of premium MGM content. Currently the network is carried in over 100 markets, reaching over 80 million homes. In addition, COMET TV is available online and for free at www.COMETtv.com. COMET TV offers popular favorites, cult classics and undiscovered gems on a daily programming schedule. The network is also the exclusive broadcast home of the “Stargate” Franchise.

About Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBGI)
Sinclair is one of the largest and most diversified television broadcasting companies in the country. The Company owns, operates and/or provides services to 173 television stations in 81 markets, broadcasting 508 channels and has affiliations with all the major networks. Sinclair is one of the leading local news providers in the country, as well as a producer of live sports content. Sinclair's content is delivered over multiple platforms, including over-the-air, multi-channel video program distributors, and digital platforms.

About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer is a leading entertainment company focused on the production and global distribution of film and television content across all platforms. The company owns one of the world’s deepest libraries of premium film and television content. In addition, MGM has investments in numerous television channels. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

SOCIAL
Facebook: WatchCOMET
Twitter: @WatchCOMET

----------------------------

"Me Before You" is a Worldwide Box Office Hit

“Me Before You” Crosses $200 Million at the Global Box Office

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--New Line Cinema’s and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures’ romantic drama “Me Before You” crossed a major milestone over the weekend, reaching the $200 million mark worldwide and wrapping up a hot summer season at the box office for the film’s distributor, Warner Bros. Pictures. The announcement was made today by Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, President, Worldwide Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.

    “We couldn't be more thrilled that the film Thea and her stellar team delivered accomplished the rare feat of being embraced by audiences all over the globe.”

With an outstanding opening in Italy this weekend of over $2.5 million on 413 screens, the film, based on Jojo Moyes’ bestselling book of the same name, was a dominant #1 in that market. “Me Before You” began its successful run in June, opposite the EURO 2016 soccer championships, and has shown longevity through the summer months; top international markets include Germany ($20.1 million), Brazil ($17.1 million), the UK ($13.7 million), Mexico ($11.6 million) and Australia ($9.1 million). It is also the year’s #1 grossing film in Norway, with $5.4 million. Italy’s impressive numbers put the total international box office at $144.4 million and counting which, when combined with a domestic total of $56.3 million, puts “Me Before You” above $200 million globally.

In making the announcement, Kwan Vandenberg stated, “Congratulations to our partners at MGM and New Line, as well as director Thea Sharrock and her entire cast and crew, for this big win. We are delighted with the film’s success and its continued momentum.”

“We have believed in the power this film could have from the day we first read Jojo Moyes’ incredible novel and began putting together the project,” added Jonathan Glickman, MGM’s President, Motion Picture Group. “We couldn't be more thrilled that the film Thea and her stellar team delivered accomplished the rare feat of being embraced by audiences all over the globe.”

Oftentimes you find love where you least expect it. Sometimes it takes you where you never expected to go…Based on the critically acclaimed, bestselling novel by Jojo Moyes, New Line Cinema’s and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures’ “Me Before You” stars Emilia Clarke (“Game of Thrones”) and Sam Claflin (“The Hunger Games” movies), under the direction of renowned theatre director Thea Sharrock, in her feature film directorial debut.

When Louisa Clark—Lou, as she’s known—unexpectedly loses her waitressing job she must scramble to replace the income that her tight-knit family depends upon. Desperation drives her to take a job as a caregiver to Will Traynor, a man who used to be a wealthy banker with an adventurous soul, living life to the very fullest, but for whom those days are in the past. After a tragic accident, Will lost the desire to live and now keeps everyone at a distance with his caustic, overbearing attitude. But unlike his family, Lou refuses to tiptoe around him or cater to his moods. In fact, her sparkling personality and easy nature are hard for even Will to ignore, and soon enough each becomes exactly what the other needs. The film also stars Oscar nominee Janet McTeer (“Albert Nobbs,” “Tumbleweeds”), Charles Dance, Brendan Coyle, Stephen Peacocke, Matthew Lewis, Jenna Coleman, Samantha Spiro, Vanessa Kirby and Ben Lloyd-Hughes.

Sharrock directed from a screenplay by Jojo Moyes, based on her book. The film was produced by Karen Rosenfelt and Alison Owen, and executive produced by Sue Baden-Powell. The behind-the-scenes creative team included Oscar-nominated director of photography Remi Adefarasin (“Elizabeth”), production designer Andrew McAlpine, editor John Wilson and costume designer Jill Taylor. The music is by composer Craig Armstrong.

“Me Before You” is a presentation of New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures, and is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment company, and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures.

www.mebeforeyoumovie.com


About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer is a leading entertainment company focused on the production and global distribution of film and television content across all platforms. The company owns one of the world’s deepest libraries of premium film and television content. In addition, MGM has investments in domestic and international television channels. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

--------------------

Original "MST3K" Flies to Digital Broadcast Network, "Comet"

Original "Mystery Science Theater 3000" Comes to COMET - The Cult Classic to Begin Airing September 4, 2016

Original Japanese Godzilla Films and Other Shows Also Added; Programming Available in Nearly 100 Markets Via Sinclair, Tribune, Titan and Other Affiliates

LOS ANGELES & BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sinclair Television Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBGI) (“Sinclair”), and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (“MGM”), partner in COMET, a science fiction broadcast network, announced today a license agreement for episodes of the original “Mystery Science Theater 3000” (MST3K) from Shout! Factory. In addition, the classic Japanese Godzilla feature films from 1954 – 1975 have also been added to the upcoming roster of programming.

    Watch #MST3K, #Godzilla and many more classic tv shows and movies on @WatchComet

“Mystery Science Theater 3000,” one of the most beloved cult television series of all time, follows the motley crew of a human host and his two robot sidekicks aboard the Satellite of Love. The hapless host, trapped by mad scientists on a satellite in space, is forced to watch some of the most outrageously unfortunate B movies ever created. Together they do a running commentary on the films, affectionately mocking their flaws with inspired wisecracks and acting as a demented movie theater peanut gallery. More than 190 episodes were produced as well as a feature film in 1996. Classic episodes of the series will begin September 4, 2016 on over 95 Comet Affiliates across the United States.

In addition to “Mystery Science Theater 3000,” COMET will begin airing numerous new shows and films, including “Jeremiah” on Thursdays beginning September 1, 2016, “Poltergeist: The Legacy” beginning September 5, 2016, “Dead Like Me” beginning September 6, 2016, and the original “The Outer Limits” on September 7, 2016.

COMET, a partnership between Sinclair and MGM, is the first-ever 24 hour/7 day per week science fiction digital broadcast network and features more than 1,500 hours of premium MGM content. Currently the network is in over 95 markets, covering over 80 million homes. In addition, Comet is available online and untethered at www.COMETtv.com. COMET offers popular favorites, cult classics and undiscovered gems on a daily programming schedule. The network is also the exclusive broadcast home of the “Stargate” Franchise.

--------------------