"Solo: A Star Wars Story" Review by Tim Hellman

'SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY': Four Stars (Out of Five)

The second of the stand-alone 'STAR WARS' anthology films (following 2016's 'ROGUE ONE'), about the early adventures of a younger Han Solo, as he meets Chewbacca and Lando Calrissian. The movie was directed by Ron Howard (who also helmed another George Lucas universe film, 'WILLOW'), and it was scripted by Lawrence Kasdan (a veteran 'STAR WARS' writer) and his son Jonathan. It stars Alden Ehrenreich (as Han Solo), Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover, Joonas Suotamo, Paul Bettany, Thandie Newton and Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The movie has received mostly positive reviews from critics, and it's expected to break all kinds of records at the Box Office as well. Being a huge 'STAR WARS' fan, I was really disappointed with this movie.

The story begins with Han (Ehrenreich) as a young smuggler, who desperately wants to start a new life for him and his lover, Qi'ra (Clarke). When he's separated from her, Han enlists in the Empire and becomes an expert pilot. He deserts his position and goes to work for a criminal named Tobias Beckett(Harrelson), with the hopes of making enough money to get back to Qi'ra. Along the way Han also meets Chewbacca (Suotamo) and Lando Calrissian (Glover), and he's also given the last name Solo.

The film for me is the worst of all the new 'STAR WARS' reboot movies (at the least), it also feels the least like a true 'STAR WARS' film. That's definitely not to say that it's a bad movie at all. The action scenes are decent, and the performances are adequate; although I don't think Ehrenreich resembles what a young Han Solo should be at all (he's a good actor in other movies though, and I think he can be charismatic in the right role). I had hoped for so much more from a Han Solo origins story, that I can only possibly feel severely disappointed with what I got. I also don't think Howard can direct a quality film anymore (he hasn't in a long time). I really wish Disney hadn't fired the original directors of the movie too (Phil Lord and Christopher Miller); I think they could have delivered something much more magical, but now we'll never know.

"Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" Review by Tim Hellman

'THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI': Five Stars (Out of Five)

The critically acclaimed, multi-award winning, Oscar hopeful from Academy Award winning writer/director Martin McDonagh (who previously won an Oscar for writing 2008's 'IN BRUGES', which he also directed). The film is a dark comedy-drama about a grieving divorced mother, who puts up three billboards (outside Ebbing, Missouri) shaming the police for not making any progress in her daughter's brutal rape and murder case. It stars Frances McDormand, Sam Rockwell (who also starred in McDonagh's 2012 hit 'SEVEN PSYCHPATHS'), Woody Harrelson, Lucas Hedges, Caleb Landry Jones, Peter Dinklage, Abbie Cornish, John Hawkes and Samara Weaving. The film has received nearly unanimous rave reviews from critics, and it's also won multiple prestigious awards as well (and been nominated for a shitload of others). It's expected to be nominated for multiple major Academy Awards too. I loved it.

Mildred Hayes (McDormand) is a single divorced mother, who's still grieving over the horrific rape and murder of her teenage daughter, seven months earlier. She is especially upset with the local police department for not making any progress in the case. So she puts up three billboards shaming them, especially Sheriff Bill Willoughby (Harrelson), who's dying from pancreatic cancer. Willoughby, and officer Jason Dixon (Rockwell), are extremely annoyed by her actions, as well as most of the rest of the town, and Mildred and her depressed teenage son, Robbie (Hedges), are harassed for it. Mildred still presses on though.

The movie is especially impressive in how it presents such a diverse range of fully developed characters, that are all extremely flawed and yet still very relatable (as both likable and seemingly very real people). It's an excellent tale of forgiveness, in my opinion, and learning how to accept and tolerate those you don't agree with. The climax and ending of the movie are also both priceless. It's so emotionally charged and totally unpredictable, that the film just really leaves you thinking about it, long after it's over. McDormand and Rockwell are also both outstanding in their roles, and McDonagh proves himself as one of Hollywood's top directors to watch for. The film is definitely a must see!

Official Stills for the Upcoming Drama "The Glass Castle"

Lionsgate recently released stills for their upcoming release "The Glass Castle". The film stars Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson, Naomi Watts, Max Greenfield, Sarah Snook and Robin Bartlett.

"The Glass Castle hits theaters on August 11th.

For more information on this film, you can visit the film's official website at: http://www.TheGlassCastle.movie

Plot Synopsis:

Chronicling the adventures of an eccentric, resilient and tight-knit family, THE GLASS CASTLE is a remarkable story of unconditional love. Oscar® winner Brie Larson brings Jeannette Walls’s best-selling memoir to life as a young woman who, influenced by the joyfully wild nature of her deeply dysfunctional father (Woody Harrelson), found the fiery determination to carve out a successful life on her own terms.

New Teaser Poster and Final Trailer for "War For the Planet of the Apes"

20th Century Fox recently released the latest teaser poster and final trailer for their upcoming release "War For the Planet of the Apes". The film stars Andy Serkis, Woody Harrelson, Steve Zahn, Amiah Miller, Karin Konoval, Judy Greer & Terry Notary.

"War For the Planet of the Apes" hits theaters on July 14th.

For more information on this film, you can visit the film's official website at: WarForThePlanet.com

Plot Synopsis:

In War for the Planet of the Apes, the third chapter of the critically acclaimed blockbuster franchise, Caesar and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless Colonel. After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind. As the journey finally brings them face to face, Caesar and the Colonel are pitted against each other in an epic battle that will determine the fate of both their species and the future of the planet.

"War For the Planet of the Apes": Official Trailer

"Now You See Me 2" Review by Tim Hellman

'NOW YOU SEE ME 2': Four Stars (Out of Five)

Sequel to the 2013 surprise 'caper flick' hit; about a group of four illusionists, that rob from the rich and give to the poor, during elaborately staged magic shows. This installment has the magic team being forced to pull off their most challenging heist yet, for a greedy tech genius. Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine all reprise their roles (from the original movie); while Lizzy Caplan, Daniel Radcliffe and Sanaa Lathan join the cast (Isla Fisher is noticeably absent, due to her recent pregnancy). Jon M. Chu directed the flick (he's previously helmed films like 'G.I. JOE: RETALIATION', two Justin Bieber documentaries, and two 'STEP UP' sequels), and it was written by Ed Solomon (who also co-wrote the original movie) and Peter Chiarelli. The film is definitely a lot of fun, and consistently entertaining throughout (just like the original).

The remaining three members of the famous illusionist team, known as the Four Horsemen (Eisenberg, Harrelson and Franco), have been hiding out for a year. The FBI is still on their trail, and FBI mole, Dylan Rhodes (Ruffalo), is still protecting them. Then Rhodes helps them setup another elaborate magic show heist, that goes horribly wrong. The team wakes up in China, and finds themselves being blackmailed into another caper; by a tech genius named Walter Mabry (Radcliffe). A witty magician named Lula May (Caplan) joins the crew, on this new mission.

I'd say if you're a fan of the original flick, you'll probably like this sequel just as much (or close to it). It's filled with all the same cool magic tricks, detailed (and impressively involving) heists, and witty banter. The cast is all great again (I'm a huge fan of Eisenberg's) and Caplan is an awesome addition to the cast (she's definitely an improvement over Fisher). I can't really see any major faults in it; and at over two hours, it impressively flies by!

Action Crime Thriller "Triple 9" Blasts its Way to DVD & Blu-Ray

Universal Home Entertainment recently release information for the upcoming DVD & Blu-Ray release of "Triple 9". The film is the latest from director John Hillcoat (Lawless) and stars Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Anthony Mackie, Aaron Paul, Norman Reedus, with Woody Harrelson and Kate Winslet.

Special features on the DVD & Blu-Ray includes Deleted Scenes, Under the Gun (The acclaimed cast of Triple 9 offers an in-depth look at its characters and the pulse-pounding twists and turns at the heart of the film.) and Authentic World (Director John Hillcoat and the cast of Triple 9 discuss how their grounded approach to filmmaking helped highlight the film's gritty, authentic look and feel.).

"Triple 9" hits retail on May 31st.

Press Release:

When a veteran cop and his rookie nephew discover a shocking conspiracy that leads dangerously close to home, they'll stop at nothing to get to the truth in Triple 9, an action-packed tale of corruption and betrayal coming to Digital HD on May 17, 2016, and Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand on May 31, 2016, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Propelled by John Hillcoat's (The Road, The Proposition) ferocious directorial style and a top-notch cast, Triple 9 races through a world where no one can be trusted in a "crime caper like no other" (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone). Triple 9 on Blu-ray™, DVD and Digital HD includes deleted scenes and a peek backstage at the making of the most original cop thriller in years.

Woody Harrelson ("True Detective," The Hunger Games series), Anthony Mackie (Avengers: Age of Ultron, The Hurt Locker), Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave, The Martian), Aaron Paul ("Breaking Bad," Need for Speed), Norman Reedus ("The Walking Dead," The Boondock Saints), Casey Affleck (Out of the Furnace, Gone Baby Gone) and Kate Winslet (Steve Jobs, Titanic) star in an explosive, action-packed thriller critics call "a twisty, terrific ride" (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone). A bank robbery is just the tip of the iceberg when two cops in Atlanta begin suspecting that members of their own team are involved. Not knowing whom to trust and how deep the corruption goes, the clock is ticking as they try to uncover the truth — before they become the target for the next deadly job.

Clifton Collins Jr. (Pacific Rim, "Westworld"), Teresa Palmer (Warm Bodies, The Choice), Michael K. Williams (12 Years a Slave, The Road) and Gal Gadot (Furious 7, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice) also star in what critics call "a modern-day heist thriller with a diverse, high-wattage cast" (Justin Chang, Variety).

"Triple 9" Review by Tim Hellman

'TRIPLE 9': Four and a Half Stars (Out of Five)

Gritty crime thriller; about a gang of criminals (including two corrupt cops) that are forced into performing two dangerous heists, for a Russian mob boss's wife. It was directed by John Hillcoat (who also directed the outstanding 'LAWLESS' and 'THE ROAD'), and it was scripted by first time feature film writer Matt Cook. The all- star cast includes Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Anthony Mackie, Kate Winslet, Woody Harrelson, Clifton Collins, Jr., Aaron Paul, Norman Reedus, Teresa Palmer and Cal Gadot. I enjoyed it immensely.

The story takes place in Atlanta, Georgia; where Michael Atwood (Ejiofor) leads a team of criminals in a daring bank robbery. They're objective is to retrieve a safe deposit box; which contains information vital to freeing a convicted Russian Mafia boss. Michael takes the box to Irina Vlaslov (Winslet), the mob boss's wife, but she insists they perform another job for her. She next wants the gang to steal more important data (on her husband), from a secured government building. Irina kills one gang member, and threatens to take Michael's son; in order to get the criminals to cooperate. The group devises a plan to kill a cop (a Triple 9 police call), as a diversion. Gang member Marcus Belmont (Mackie), a corrupt cop, suggests they kill his new partner, Chris Allen (Affleck).

The movie is very dark, gritty and graphically violent; it also contains explicit sex, nudity, disturbing drug use and lots of foul language. It's definitely not a movie for everyone, but the right audience should get a big kick out of it. Some of it seems pretty intense and hard to watch; but it also feels like a movie (like a really good crime action flick). The pacing is great, the performances are all good and the dialogue is witty. The film definitely has it's flaws too though. It's an especially odd mix of genre pleasing action formula, and realistic crime thriller; but I really enjoyed it.

Official Stills for the Action Thriller "Triple 9"

Open Road Films recently released stills for the upcoming action film "Triple 9". The upcoming film is the latest from director John Hillcoat (Lawless) and stars Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Anthony Mackie, Aaron Paul, Norman Reedus, with Woody Harrelson and Kate Winslet.

"Triple 9" hits theaters on February 26th.

For more information on this film, you can visit the film's official Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/Triple9Movie

Plot synopsis:

TRIPLE 9 is an action-packed thriller starring Oscar®-nominees Woody Harrelson, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kate Winslet and Casey Affleck, along with Aaron Paul, Norman Reedus, Gal Gadot and Anthony Mackie. Directed by John Hillcoat ("Lawless").

Official Character Posters for the Action Thriller "Triple 9"

Open Road Films recently released the official trailer for the upcoming action film "Triple 9". The upcoming film is the latest from director John Hillcoat (Lawless) and stars Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Anthony Mackie, Aaron Paul, Norman Reedus, with Woody Harrelson and Kate Winslet.

"Triple 9" hits theaters on February 26th.

For more information on this film, you can visit the film's official Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/Triple9Movie

Plot synopsis:

TRIPLE 9 is an action-packed thriller starring Oscar®-nominees Woody Harrelson, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kate Winslet and Casey Affleck, along with Aaron Paul, Norman Reedus, Gal Gadot and Anthony Mackie. Directed by John Hillcoat ("Lawless").

Intense Official Trailer for the Upcoming Action Film "Triple 9"

Open Road Films recently released the official trailer for the upcoming action film "Triple 9". The upcoming film is the latest from director John Hillcoat (Lawless) and stars Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Anthony Mackie, Aaron Paul, Norman Reedus, with Woody Harrelson and Kate Winslet.

"Triple 9" hits theaters on February 26th.

For more information on this film, you can visit the film's official Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/Triple9Movie

Plot synopsis:

TRIPLE 9 is an action-packed thriller starring Oscar®-nominees Woody Harrelson, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kate Winslet and Casey Affleck, along with Aaron Paul, Norman Reedus, Gal Gadot and Anthony Mackie. Directed by John Hillcoat ("Lawless").

"Triple 9": Official Trailer

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2" Review - Written by Tim Hellman

'THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY - PART 2': Five Stars (Out of Five)

The epic conclusion to the immensely popular sci-fi saga; based on the bestselling YA book series, of the same name, by Suzanne Collins. This forth installment, is the second movie based on the third (and final) book: 'Mockingjay'. In this chapter Katniss Everdeen plots to assassinate President Snow, while the rebels also wage war on the Capitol. It once again stars the always impressive Jennifer Lawrence, and it costars Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Donald Sutherland, Julianne Moore, Sam Claflin, Natalie Dormer, Jena Malone, Willow Shields, Elizabeth Banks and the late Philip Seymour Hoffman (all reprising roles from earlier films). Francis Lawrence returned to direct, for the third time, and Peter Craig and Danny Strong wrote the screenplay (they also co- wrote the last chapter). I think it's a beautiful, and stunning, conclusion to an epic film series (one of my favorites in recent years).

The story picks up right where the last one left off, with Katniss (Lawrence) recovering from being attacked by a brainwashed Peeta (Hutcherson). The rebels attack District 2, and take over it's weapons supply. They then continue a bloody assault on the Capitol. Katniss volunteers to assassinate President Snow (Sutherland), but President Alma Coin (Moore) doesn't want to risk losing her as a symbol (for the revolution); if she were to be killed. Katniss, being Katniss, does what she wants to do anyway; and joins the rebel forces. She's teamed, in a rebel squad, with Gale (Hemsworth), Finnick (Claflin), Cressida (Dormer), Peeta and others; in shooting propaganda footage of the brutal war.

I'm a big fan of the entire series, and this installment definitely doesn't disappoint. It's unrelentingly dark, disturbing and violent (I definitely think it should have been rated R). It's also completely epic and very moving (I let more than a few tears go). The end is perfectly fitting; and the political commentary is brutal and brilliant. I love Jennifer Lawrence, and she once again gives one of the best performances of the year; but the rest of the cast is decent as well, and I've really come to love all of these characters (especially Woody as Haymitch). For me it was just as exciting, emotional and fun, as the conclusions to any epic sci-fi film series; most notably 'THE RETURN OF THE KING'. It's definitely a 'must-see', and one of the best films of the year!

First Trailer for the Upcoming Summer 2016 Film "Now You See Me 2"

Summit Entertainment recently released the first trailer for their upcoming summer film "Now You See Me 2". The film stars  Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Lizzy Caplan, Daniel Radcliffe, Michael Caine and Morgan Freeman.

"Now You See Me 2" hits theaters on June 10th, 2016

Plot Synopsis:

THE FOUR HORSEMEN [Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Lizzy Caplan] return for a second mind-bending adventure, elevating the limits of stage illusion to new heights and taking them around the globe. One year after outwitting the FBI and winning the public's adulation with their Robin Hood-style magic spectacles, the illusionists resurface for a comeback performance in hopes of exposing the unethical practices of a tech magnate. The man behind their vanishing act is none other than WALTER MABRY [Daniel Radcliffe], a tech prodigy who threatens the Horsemen into pulling off their most impossible heist yet. Their only hope is to perform one last unprecedented stunt to clear their names and reveal the mastermind behind it all.

"Now You See Me 2": Teaser Trailer

Two New Film Clips from "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2"

Lionsgate recently released two film clips for the anticipated "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part Two". The film stars Jennifer Lawerence, Josh Hutcherson,Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Academy Award®-winner Philip Seymour Hoffman and Donald Sutherland.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2" hits theaters on November 20th.

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

Plot Synopsis:

With the nation of Panem in a full scale war, Katniss confronts President Snow [Donald Sutherland] in the final showdown. Teamed with a group of her closest friends – including Gale [Liam Hemsworth], Finnick [Sam Claflin] and Peeta [Josh Hutcherson] – Katniss goes off on a mission with the unit from District 13 as they risk their lives to liberate the citizens of Panem, and stage an assassination attempt on President Snow who has become increasingly obsessed with destroying her.  The mortal traps, enemies, and moral choices that await Katniss will challenge her more than any arena she faced in The Hunger Games.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2": "Old Friends": Clip

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2": "Old Friends": Clip

IMAX Poster and Final Trailer for "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part Two"

Lionsgate recently released the IMAX poster and last trailer for the anticipated "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part Two". The film stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson,Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Academy Award®-winner Philip Seymour Hoffman and Donald Sutherland.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2" hits theaters on November 20th.

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

Plot Synopsis:

With the nation of Panem in a full scale war, Katniss confronts President Snow [Donald Sutherland] in the final showdown. Teamed with a group of her closest friends – including Gale [Liam Hemsworth], Finnick [Sam Claflin] and Peeta [Josh Hutcherson] – Katniss goes off on a mission with the unit from District 13 as they risk their lives to liberate the citizens of Panem, and stage an assassination attempt on President Snow who has become increasingly obsessed with destroying her.  The mortal traps, enemies, and moral choices that await Katniss will challenge her more than any arena she faced in The Hunger Games.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part Two": Official Trailer - The 76th Hunger Games

Final Poster and Latest Trailer for "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2"

Lionsgate recently released the final poster and latest trailer for the anticipated "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part Two". The film stars Jennifer Lawerence, Josh Hutcherson,Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Academy Award®-winner Philip Seymour Hoffman and Donald Sutherland.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2" hits theaters on November 20th.

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

Plot Synopsis:

With the nation of Panem in a full scale war, Katniss confronts President Snow [Donald Sutherland] in the final showdown. Teamed with a group of her closest friends – including Gale [Liam Hemsworth], Finnick [Sam Claflin] and Peeta [Josh Hutcherson] – Katniss goes off on a mission with the unit from District 13 as they risk their lives to liberate the citizens of Panem, and stage an assassination attempt on President Snow who has become increasingly obsessed with destroying her.  The mortal traps, enemies, and moral choices that await Katniss will challenge her more than any arena she faced in The Hunger Games.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part Two": Official Trailer "For Prim"

Official Trailer and New Teaser Poster for "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2"

Lionsgate recently released the newest teaser poster and official trailer for "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2". The film stars Jennifer Lawerence, Josh Hutcherson,Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Academy Award®-winner Philip Seymour Hoffman and Donald Sutherland.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2" hits theaters on November 20th.

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

Plot Synopsis:

The blockbuster Hunger Games franchise has taken audiences by storm around the world, grossing more than $2.2 billion at the global box office. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 now brings the franchise to its powerful final chapter in which Katniss Everdeen [Jennifer Lawrence] realizes the stakes are no longer just for survival – they are for the future.

With the nation of Panem in a full scale war, Katniss confronts President Snow [Donald Sutherland] in the final showdown. Teamed with a group of her closest friends – including Gale [Liam Hemsworth], Finnick [Sam Claflin] and Peeta [Josh Hutcherson] – Katniss goes off on a mission with the unit from District 13 as they risk their lives to liberate the citizens of Panem, and stage an assassination attempt on President Snow who has become increasingly obsessed with destroying her. The mortal traps, enemies, and moral choices that await Katniss will challenge her more than any arena she faced in The Hunger Games.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 is directed by Francis Lawrence from a screenplay by Peter Craig and Danny Strong and features an acclaimed cast including Academy Award®-winner Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Academy Award®-winner Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jeffrey Wright, Willow Shields, Sam Claflin, Jena Malone with Stanley Tucci and Donald Sutherland reprising their original roles from The Hunger Games and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. The impressive lineup is joined by The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 co-stars Academy Award®-winner Julianne Moore, Mahershala Ali, Natalie Dormer, Wes Chatham, Elden Henson and Evan Ross.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2": Official Trailer

First Teaser Poster for "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2"

Lionsgate recently released the official teaser poster for the upcoming release of "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2". The film stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jeffrey Wright, Willow Shields, Sam Claflin, Jena Malone, Natalie Dormer, with Stanley Tucci, and Donald Sutherland.

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2" hits theaters on November 20th.

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

Press Release:

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY – PART 2 stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jeffrey Wright, Willow Shields, Sam Claflin, Jena Malone, Natalie Dormer, with Stanley Tucci, and Donald Sutherland.

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY – PART 2 is directed by Francis Lawrence from a screenplay by Peter Craig and Danny Strong and produced by Nina Jacobson's Color Force in tandem with producer Jon Kilik. The novel on which the film is based is the third in a trilogy written by Suzanne Collins that has over 65 million copies in print in the U.S. alone.

Lionsgate presents, a Color Force / Lionsgate production, a Francis Lawrence film

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1" Review - Written by Tim Hellman

'THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY - PART 1': Five Stars (Out of Five)

The third installment in the blockbuster film series, based on the bestselling young adult book trilogy by Suzanne Collins. This chapter is based on the first half of the final book (titled 'Mockingjay') and deals with Katniss Everdeen (once again played by Jennifer Lawrence) having to become a symbol for the rebellion, in their war against the ruthless Capitol. It was directed by Francis Lawrence (who also directed 'THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE') and written by Peter Craig and Danny Strong. Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Donald Sutherland, Sam Claflin, Jeffrey Wright, Stanley Tucci, Willow Shields, Jena Malone and the late Philip Seymour Hoffman all reprise their roles from the other films and Julianne Moore joins the cast. I loved every minute of it and in many ways think it's an improvement over the previous two films!

The story picks up right where the last film left off; Katniss (Lawrence) has suffered a mental breakdown and is having a horrendous time adapting to life at District 13, with the other rebels. She also can't get over the fact that Peeta (Hutcherson) was taken by the Capitol and she'll do almost anything to get him back. Plutarch (Hoffman) introduces Katniss to the leader of the rebellion, President Coin (Moore), and they ask her to be their movement's symbol, in propaganda adds, to incite a rebellion. She reluctantly agrees under the condition that they rescue Peeta, and the other captives at the Capitol. The rest of the film deals with Katniss struggling to adapt to her new role, as the face of the revolution; 'The Mockingjay'.

There's been some criticism over the fact that the final book was split into two films and that there's not enough action in this installment to make it as worthwhile a filmgoing experience, as the other movies. I strongly disagree. I think this chapter is much better because of it. There's so much character development and believable human drama that any true fan of film should be thoroughly satisfied. We also get some great acting; Lawrence gives the best performance of the series here and it's arguably one of the best of her career. She also has a lot of help from multiple veteran actors, like Hoffman and Moore. Peeta doesn't have nearly as much screen time, as he did in the other movies, but he's always a strong and pivotal part of the plot. Gale (Hemsworth) is in a lot more scenes, this time around, but he's still just as underdeveloped (he has one powerful dialogue moment though; where he's at least given a chance to show some acting ability). The love triangle definitely doesn't feel necessary anymore, it's obvious that Katniss loves Peeta but the certainty of how Peeta's character will end up is certainly still up in the air. I also enjoyed how much more epic this film feels, over the last two, it really feels like the first half to the conclusion of a classic sci-fi trilogy. The directing, cinematography and music are all breathtaking to watch, as well, and we get to hear Jennifer Lawrence sing! Fans that only look forward to action are sure to be disappointed but everyone else should be more than pleased!

Daniel Radcliffe, Lizzy Caplin and Jay Chou Join the Cast of "Now You See Me 2"

Summit Entertainment recently send us some casting information for the upcoming sequel "Now You See Me 2".  Daniel Radcliffe (“HORNS,” “KILL YOUR DARLINGS,” “HARRY POTTER FILMS,”), Lizzy Caplan (Showtime's "MASTERS OF SEX," the upcoming "THE INTERVIEW") and Jay Chou (Taiwanese mega-star) joins Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo, Morgan Freeman, Woody Harrelson, Michael Caine, and Dave Franco for this film. "Now You See Me 2" is slated to hits theaters

Press Release:

It's OFFICIAL! - Daniel Radcliffe (“HORNS,” “KILL YOUR DARLINGS,” “HARRY POTTER FILMS,”), Lizzy Caplan (Showtime's "MASTERS OF SEX," the upcoming "THE INTERVIEW") and Jay Chou (Taiwanese mega-star) will star in Lionsgate's NOW YOU SEE ME 2.

DANIEL RADCLIFFE (“HORNS,” “KILL YOUR DARLINGS,” “HARRY POTTER FILMS”) will play WALTER in Lionsgate's NOW YOU SEE ME 2. Radcliffe is repped by UTA and ARG in the UK and attorney Fred Toczek.

LIZZY CAPLAN (Showtime's "MASTERS OF SEX," the upcoming "THE INTERVIEW") will play LULA in Lionsgate's NOW YOU SEE ME 2. Caplan is repped by WME, Mosaic and Jackoway, Tyerman, Werthheimer, Austen, Mandelbaum & Morris.

JAY CHOU (Taiwanese mega-star) will play LI in Lionsgate's NOW YOU SEE ME 2. Chou is repped by JVR Music.

The ensemble cast includes JESSE EISENBERG, MARK RUFFALO, MORGAN FREEMAN, WOODY HARRELSON, MICHAEL CAINE and DAVE FRANCO.

One year after outwitting the FBI and winning the public’s adulation with their mind-bending spectacles, the Four Horsemen resurface in NOW YOU SEE ME 2 only to find themselves face to face with a new enemy who enlists them to pull off their most dangerous heist yet.
NOW YOU SEE ME 2 will be directed by Jon M. Chu (GI JOE: RETALIATION) from a script by Pete Chiarelli and Ed Solomon. Producers are Bobby Cohen, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci.
Erik Feig, Co-President of the Motion Picture Group, along with Geoff Shaevitz, President of Production, will oversee the project for Lionsgate.