"First Reformed" Review by Tim Hellman

'FIRST REFORMED': Four and a Half Stars (Out of Five)

The most critically acclaimed movie of the year so far is this dramatic thriller written and directed by veteran filmmaker Paul Schrader (the man who wrote 'TAXI DRIVER'). It stars Ethan Hawke as a protestant pastor who begins to doubt his faith after his son is killed while serving in the military. The film costars Amanda Seyfried, Cedric ('the Entertainer') Kyles, Victoria Hill, Michael Gaston and Philip Ettinger. I found it to be a very depressing, and dark, near masterpiece.

Toller (Hawke) is a protestant preacher, and former military chaplain, who's been slowly losing his faith ever since the death of his son (who enlisted in the military at his encouragement). His spiritual doubts are further complicated when a young woman, named Mary (Seyfried), asks him to council her husband, Michael (Ettinger). Mary's husband is an extremely depressed environmentalist, who's severely troubled by his knowledge of global warming, and the thought of bringing a child into our destructive world. Toller's depression hits a breaking point when he fails to help the young couple, and blames himself for their sudden tragedy.

The movie is similar to 'TAXI DRIVER', in story and character development, but not quite as creepy or classic. It's still definitely disturbing though, and Hawke is outstanding in the lead. The global warming theme is very relatable, and effective as well. It's a near flawless film, and definitely not a feel good movie obviously. So be prepared to be left extremely disturbed by it, with very little life hopefulness or happiness left in you.

Final Trailer for "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets"

EuropaCorp and STX Films recently released the final trailer for Luc Besson's latest film "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets". The film is based on the French sci-fi comic series "Valerian and Laureline". The film stars Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne,  Clive Owen, Rihanna, Ethan Hawke, Herbie Hancock, Kris Wu and John Goodman.
 
"Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets" is slated to hits theaters on July 21st.


Plot Synopsis:

Rooted in the classic graphic novel series, Valerian and Laureline- visionary writer/director Luc Besson advances this iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic science fiction saga.

Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are special operatives for the government of the human territories charged with maintaining order throughout the universe. Valerian has more in mind than a professional relationship with his partner- blatantly chasing after her with propositions of romance. But his extensive history with women, and her traditional values, drive Laureline to continuously rebuff him.

Under directive from their Commander (Clive Owen), Valerian and Laureline embark on a mission to the breathtaking intergalactic city of Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis comprised of thousands of different species from all four corners of the universe. Alpha's seventeen million inhabitants have converged over time- uniting their talents, technology and resources for the betterment of all. Unfortunately, not everyone on Alpha shares in these same objectives; in fact, unseen forces are at work, placing our race in great danger.

  "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets": Final Trailer

Official Character Posters for Luc Besson's "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets"

EuropaCorp recently send us the official character posters for Luc Besson's latest film "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets". The film is based on the French sci-fi comic series "Valerian and Laureline". The film stars Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne,  Clive Owen, Rihanna, Ethan Hawke, Herbie Hancock, Kris Wu and John Goodman.
 
"Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets" is slated to hits theaters on July 21st.


Plot Synopsis:

Rooted in the classic graphic novel series, Valerian and Laureline- visionary writer/director Luc Besson advances this iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic science fiction saga.

Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are special operatives for the government of the human territories charged with maintaining order throughout the universe. Valerian has more in mind than a professional relationship with his partner- blatantly chasing after her with propositions of romance. But his extensive history with women, and her traditional values, drive Laureline to continuously rebuff him.

Under directive from their Commander (Clive Owen), Valerian and Laureline embark on a mission to the breathtaking intergalactic city of Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis comprised of thousands of different species from all four corners of the universe. Alpha's seventeen million inhabitants have converged over time- uniting their talents, technology and resources for the betterment of all. Unfortunately, not everyone on Alpha shares in these same objectives; in fact, unseen forces are at work, placing our race in great danger.

Teaser Poster for Luc Besson's Upcoming Film "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets"

EuropaCorp recently send us the official teaser poster for Luc Besson's latest film "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets". The film is based on the French sci-fi comic series "Valerian and Laureline". The film stars Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne,  Clive Owen, Rihanna, Ethan Hawke, Herbie Hancock, Kris Wu and John Goodman.
 
"Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets" is slated to hits theaters on July 17th, 2017.


Plot Synopsis:

Rooted in the classic graphic novel series, Valerian and Laureline- visionary writer/director Luc Besson advances this iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic science fiction saga.

Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are special operatives for the government of the human territories charged with maintaining order throughout the universe. Valerian has more in mind than a professional relationship with his partner- blatantly chasing after her with propositions of romance. But his extensive history with women, and her traditional values, drive Laureline to continuously rebuff him.

Under directive from their Commander (Clive Owen), Valerian and Laureline embark on a mission to the breathtaking intergalactic city of Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis comprised of thousands of different species from all four corners of the universe. Alpha's seventeen million inhabitants have converged over time- uniting their talents, technology and resources for the betterment of all. Unfortunately, not everyone on Alpha shares in these same objectives; in fact, unseen forces are at work, placing our race in great danger.

"The Magnificent Seven" Review by Tim Hellman

'THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN': Four Stars (Out of Five)

Director Antoine Fuqua's remake of the classic 1960 western, of the same name; which was in turn a remake of the 1954 Japanese epic 'SEVEN SAMURAI'. It once again tells the story of seven outcast gunmen, that band together to defend a poor town from a ruthless industrialist. The script was written by Richard Wenk (a veteran action film director, of movies like 'THE EXPENDABLES 2' and 'THE EQUALIZER') and Nic Pizzolatto (who also created the popular TV series 'TRUE DETECTIVE', and wrote all of it's episodes); it's based on a screenplay by the great Akira Kurosawa, Shinobu Hashimoto and Hideo Oguni. The film stars Denzel Washington (in his third collaboration with Fuqua), Chris Pratt, Ethan Hawke (in his third collaboration with Fuqua as well), Byung-hun Lee, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Vincent D'Onofrio, Martin Sensmeier, Haley Bennett and Peter Sarsgaard. It's received mostly positive reviews from critics (although not great ones) and it's done pretty well at the Box Office (but not great). I think it's a fairly good western remake (but not a great one).

The movie is set in 1879, in a small mining town called Rose Creek. The town is taken over by a corrupt businessman, named Bartholomew Bogue (Sarsgaard), and his men; and when some of the townspeople try standing up against him, they're slaughtered. Emma Cullen (Bennett), who's husband (Matt Bomer) was murdered, rides to the closest town, with her friend Teddy Q (Luke Grimes), looking for help. They're they meet a warrant officer named Sam Chisolm (Washington). When Cullen offers Chisolm a lot of money, and informs him that Bogue is the culprit, he reluctantly agrees to help her. Chisolm then sets out in finding six other gunmen to help him.

The movie is entertaining, full of colorful characters (and good performances), and it also has some pretty spectacular actions scenes; one shootout is really intense (and well done). The movie is definitely entertaining; there's a few slow moments, but there's not too much really to complain about. Still, despite all it's strengths, it left me wanting a little more. It's definitely not a classic, like either of the films it's based on (or 'THREE AMIGOS'), but it is a pretty good western flick.

Official Stills for the Upcoming Remake of "The Magnificent Seven"

Columbia Pictures and MGM recently released stills for the upcoming remake of "The Magnificent Seven". The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) and stars Denzel Washington, Chris Platt, Ethan Hawke, Peter Sarsgaard, Vincent D' Onofrio, Byung-Hun Lee, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo and Martin Sensmeier.

"The Magnificent Seven" hits theaters on September 23rd.

Plot Synopsis:

Director Antoine Fuqua brings his modern vision to a classic story in Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures’ and Columbia Pictures’ The Magnificent Seven. With the town of Rose Creek under the deadly control of industrialist Bartholomew Bogue (Peter Sarsgaard), the desperate townspeople employ protection from seven outlaws, bounty hunters, gamblers and hired guns – Sam Chisolm (Denzel Washington), Josh Farraday (Chris Pratt), Goodnight Robicheaux (Ethan Hawke), Jack Horne (Vincent D’Onofrio), Billy Rocks (Byung-Hun Lee), Vasquez (Manuel Garcia-Rulfo), and Red Harvest (Martin Sensmeier). As they prepare the town for the violent showdown that they know is coming, these seven mercenaries find themselves fighting for more than money

First Images from Luc Besson's Upcoming Film "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets"

EuropaCorp recently send us information that Luc Besson's latest film "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets" recently started filming. The film is based on the French sci-fi comic series "Valerian and Laureline". The film stars Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne,  Clive Owen, Rihanna, Ethan Hawke, Herbie Hancock, Kris Wu and John Goodman.
 
"Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets" is slated to hits theaters on July 17th, 2017.

Plot Synopsis:

Rooted in the classic graphic novel series, Valerian and Laureline- visionary writer/director Luc Besson advances this iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic science fiction saga.

Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are special operatives for the government of the human territories charged with maintaining order throughout the universe. Valerian has more in mind than a professional relationship with his partner- blatantly chasing after her with propositions of romance. But his extensive history with women, and her traditional values, drive Laureline to continuously rebuff him.

Under directive from their Commander (Clive Owen), Valerian and Laureline embark on a mission to the breathtaking intergalactic city of Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis comprised of thousands of different species from all four corners of the universe. Alpha's seventeen million inhabitants have converged over time- uniting their talents, technology and resources for the betterment of all. Unfortunately, not everyone on Alpha shares in these same objectives; in fact, unseen forces are at work, placing our race in great danger.

Fantasia 2016: Official Stills for Ti West's Latest Film "In a Valley of Violence"

Focus World recently released stills for their upcoming release of the western "In a Valley of Violence". The film marks a departure for director Ti West, as he's been known for horror films like "House of the Devil", "The Innkeepers" and "The Sacrament". The film stars Ethan Hawke, Taissa Farmiga, John Travolta, James Ransone and Karen Gillan.

Ti West's "In a Valley of Violence" will be making its international premiere at Fantasia on July 17th at the SGWU Alumni Auditorium (Hall Theatre). Screening time is 7:45PM in Montreal QC.

Plot Synopsis:

A shadowy drifter (Ethan Hawke) and his dog journey through the deserts of the Old West on their way to Mexico, making a terrible mistake in taking a shortcut through Denton, a small and largely forgotten mining town that many in the region have begun to unaffectionately refer to as “a valley of violence.” Numerous townsfolk have left for safer or more promising havens. Most of who remained are criminals, bullies, hustlers and idiots. Our drifter soon crosses paths with the town marshal’s distinctly lawless son, and all hell begins to break loose, setting forth cycles of vengeance and violence that will significantly reduce Denton’s already-dwindling population and leave the desert earth saturated with blood.

"Regression" Review by Anthony T

You would think a film starring Ethan Hawke and Emma Watson would appear on your radar screen when looking at upcoming theatrical films. This wasn’t the case with their latest film “Regression”, as the first time I heard about it was when I did a news story about the film’s upcoming home video release. It got me thinking that this looked like one of those films where it must have been shelved or is bad enough that it was released quietly release in limited release. Still, I wanted to that chance and see this.

The film takes place in 1990 where a detective (Ethan Hawke) is investigating a horrific crime when a young woman (Emma Watson) thinks that her father John is involved. Soon, her father admits that without recollection that he committed that crime. A psychologist is brought in to help John as he tries re-piece the moments his mind and find out what truly happens. This unveils what truly happened. The film also co-stars David Dencik and David Thewlis.

No wonder why this never made it into many theaters in the first place. That was my first thought after watching “Regression”. It was very surprising that this was very bad because this had a good cast on paper and the fact that I really liked Alejandro Amenabar’s “The Others”. Sadly, this was a film where I felt bored from start to finish as nothing works.

Most of the reason why I didn’t like this film was Amenabar’s direction. One of the things that I didn’t like about it was the fact that nothing grabbed my attention. Whether it was the way the scenes were approached to how he approaches the action, everything was just flat out dull and not engaging. When that happens, you lose interest in a film like I did with this film. The other thing that Amenabar doesn’t do right was the way that he handles the performances. It felt the same as the directing. You would think the performance aspect would be decent with Ethan Hawke and Emma Watson in this, but it wasn’t the case as they didn’t look like they were interested in the material. Their performances felt more phoned in, as they didn’t bring anything to their characters that. It’s the bad directing and screenplay that made it all possible.

Speaking of the screenplay, it was very bad from start to finish. One of the things that I didn’t like was the way Amenabar writes some of the film’s scenes. It felt like there was nothing in them to make me interested with what was happening in the story. Some of the scenes felt like it came out of something that you would see in a Lifetime film as it felt dull and lifeless at times. The other thing that makes this bad was the fact the character and story development either wasn’t there as it felt rushed and not important. It would’ve been nice to slow down and develop everything. This would’ve made the story a little more interesting. Instead, I’m not given a reason to care about the characters or the action that takes place.

This is easily one of the worst films that I’ve seen so far this year as there is nothing good about this. From its weak direction to an unenergetic screenplay, “Regression” is a film that should’ve stayed on the studio shelves.

Review Rating: One Star

Psychological Thriller "Regression" Heads to DVD & Blu-Ray

Dimension Films and Anchor Bay Entertainment recently released information for the upcoming DVD and Blu-Ray release of "Regression". The film stars  Ethan Hawke (Boyhood, Training Day, The Purge), Emma Watson (Harry Potter, Perks of Being a Wallflower), David Thewlis (Harry Potter, Anomalisa), Dale Dickey (“True Blood”) and Devon Bostick (“The 100”, Diary of a Wimpy Kid).

No special features were announced at this time.

"Regression" hits retail on May 10th

Press Release:

Award-winning filmmaker Alejandro Amenábar’s (The Others, The Sea Inside) latest psychological thriller Regression arrives May 10 on Blu-ray™ and DVD from Anchor Bay Entertainment and Dimension Films, and Digital HD and On Demand from Starz Digital. Regression features an ensemble cast led by Academy Award® nominee Ethan Hawke (Boyhood, Training Day, The Purge), and Emma Watson (Harry Potter, Perks of Being a Wallflower). Hailed as a “carefully-crafted tale of collective psychosis” by the Hollywood Reporter, Regression also stars David Thewlis (Harry Potter, Anomalisa), Dale Dickey (“True Blood”) and Devon Bostick (“The 100”, Diary of a Wimpy Kid).

Minnesota, 1990. Detective Bruce Kenner (Ethan Hawke) investigates the case of young Angela (Emma Watson), who accuses her father, John Gray (David Dencik), of an unspeakable crime. When John unexpectedly and without recollection admits guilt, renowned psychologist Dr. Raines (David Thewlis) is brought in to help him relive his memories and what they discover unmasks a horrifying nationwide mystery.

Regression will be available on Blu-ray and DVD from Anchor Bay Entertainment for the suggested retail price of $26.99 and $22.98, respectively.

Official Stills and Trailer for Ethan Hawke's Documentary "Seymour: An Introduction"

Sundance Selects recently released stills and the official trailer for the documentary "Seymour: An Introduction". The film is directed by Ethan Hawke, who was recently seen in Richard Linklater's "Boyhood".

"Seymour: An Introduction" is currently playing in limited release.

Plot Synopsis:

Meet Seymour Bernstein: a virtuoso pianist, veteran New Yorker, and true original who gave up a successful concert career to teach music. In this wonderfully warm, witty, and intimate tribute from his friend, Ethan Hawke, Seymour shares unforgettable stories from his remarkable life and eye-opening words of wisdom, as well as insightful reflections on art, creativity, and the search for fulfillment. A "poignant guide to life" (Indiewire) and an engaging exploration on the dedication, perseverance, and fortitude essential to creating both art and a rewarding life, Seymour: An Introduction will leave audiences uplifted and inspired.

"Seymour: An Introduction": Official Trailer

Official Stills for the Upcoming Teen Drama "Ten Thousand Saints"

Archer Grey Productions and Maven Pictures released released stills for their film "Ten Thousand Saints, which made its world premiere at this year's Sundance Film Festival. The film is latest from "American Splendor'" directors Robert Pulcini and Shari Springer Berman. "Ten Thousans Saints" stars Ethan Hawke, Asa Butterfield. Emily Mortimer, Julianne Nicholson, Hailee Steinfeld and Emile Hirsch.

"Ten Thousand Saints" will be making its final screening at the Sundance Film Festival on 1/31 at 10Pm at the Holiday Village Cinema 4 in Park City, UT.

For more information on this film, You can visit the film's official Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/TenThousandSaints

Plot Synopsis:

Jude—named after a Beatles song by his hippie parents—spends his high school days in small-town Vermont getting high with his best friend, Teddy. Beneath Jude’s mind-numbing activities lurks a desire to reconnect with his estranged father, Les, who abandoned the family when Jude was nine. Desperate to keep her son out of trouble, Jude’s mother sends him to live with Les in New York City. In the roiling and raw East Village, Jude struggles to establish an identity within the cultural upheaval downtown and forms an unlikely surrogate family with Teddy’s straight-edge brother and a troubled, rich uptown girl.

Breaking Glass Pictures to Release Richard Linklater Documentary "21 Years: Richard Linklater"

With Richard Linklater's latest film "Boyhood" hitting stores, Breaking Glass Pictures recently released DVD information for the upcoming documentary "21 Years: Richard Linklater" based on the director. The film features includes interviews with Ethan Hawke, Jack Black, Keanu Reeves, Matthew McConaughey, Zac Efron, Julie Delpy, and more and stories that are told through animation sequences.

Special features on the DVD include interview outtakes and behind the scenes footage with Powerhouse Animation.

"21 Years: Richard Linklater" hits stores on 1/13/2015.

Press Release:

Breaking Glass Pictures is releasing 21 Years: Richard Linklater on DVD January 13, 2015. Directed by Michael Dunaway and Tara Wood, the documentary features candid conversations with Ethan Hawke, Jack Black, Keanu Reeves, Matthew McConaughey, Zac Efron, Julie Delpy, and more.

It's been said that the first 21 years defines the career of an artist. Few directors have single-handedly shaken up the film establishment like the godfather of indie, Richard Linklater. From the groundbreaking SLACKER to his innovative BOYHOOD, Linklater has just reached the 21-year mark and has unapologetically carved his signature into American pop culture. This compelling documentary takes you on a behind the scenes tour into Linklater's style, skills, and motivation via his friends, actors, and other directors. Get a raw and honest perspective on Richard through candid conversations with Ethan Hawke, Jack Black, Keanu Reeves, Billy Bob Thornton, Matthew McConaughey, Jason Reitman, Julie Delpy and others, and see their stories brought to life through hilarious animated sequences.

New York Daily News raved 21 Years is "..as loose and cool as an Austin night out." DVD extras include interview outtakes and behind the scenes footage with Powerhouse Animation.

Fantasia 2014: Official Stills and Trailer for Richard Linklater's Latest Film "Boyhood"

IFC Films recently released stills for Richard Linklater's latest film "Boyhood", which is playing at this year's Fantasia International Film Festival. The film stars Ellar Coltrane, Patricia Arquette, and Ethan Hawke.

"Boyhood" is currently playing in limited release here in the U.S.

Plot Synopsis:

Mason (Ellar Coltrane) is five years old, and like most kids his age, he's not big on school and prefers to play with his friends. His parents having separated, he and his sister Samantha are with their mother (Patricia Arquette) and only see their eternally adolescent dad (Ethan Hawke) every second weekend. The years pass with their share of ups and downs. Alone against each day's adversities, Mason contends with the lumps and lessons of growing up. His personality takes shape in reaction to family drama and fleeting friendships, brief loves and broken dreams. The foundations of the man he will be are being laid.

"Boyhood": Official Trailer