"FLATLINERS" with Ellen Page -- New Trailer, Photos and One-Sheet

FLATLINERS
Thriller
September 29, 2017

In Flatliners, five medical students, hoping to gain insight into the mystery of what lies beyond the confines of life, embark on a daring and dangerous experiment.

By stopping their hearts for short periods of time, each triggers a near-death experience. 

As the investigation becomes more and more perilous, they are forced to confront the sins of their pasts, as well as contend with the paranormal consequences of trespassing to the other side.

 

Directed by:  Niels Arden Oplev
       
Story by:   Peter Filardi and Ben Ripley

Screenplay by:  Ben Ripley

Produced by:  Laurence Mark
Michael Douglas
Peter Safran

Executive Producers:  Michael Bederman
Robert Mitas
           
Cast:  Ellen Page
Diego Luna
Nina Dobrev
James Norton
Kiersey Clemons

This film is not yet rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.  For future rating information, please visit www.filmratings.com.  Credits not final

Watch the Trailer:

"FLATLINERS" with Ellen Page -- New Trailer, Photos and One-Sheet

FROM HOLLYWOOD TO ROSE -- Movie Review by Porfle

A middle-aged, somewhat dazed-looking woman in a wedding dress and skyscraper heels gets on a bus on Hollywood Boulevard and rides around all night, pondering her circumstances while interacting with a procession of oddballs in FROM HOLLYWOOD TO ROSE (2016). 

The would-be bride (Eve Annenberg) has just backed out of her wedding to an overly serious doctor named Stanley.  When she encounters two portly young fanboys who come off like a couple of yakky Kevin Smith types, their constant chatter about useless trivia slowly coaxes her out of her shell enough to reveal herself as a fellow dreamer who has trouble relating to the real world and its more mundane denizens.

Later in the film we'll finally get the whole story on The Bride, but in the meantime, she's just a cypher in a sea of strangers (some much stranger than others) each of whom has his or her moment to perform some comic monologue or freak out in an amusing manner until it's the next character's turn.

 

Thus, most of the script is virtually plotless and our interest in it is dependant on how entertaining we find The Bride and her various traveling companions. 

As one might guess, it's a line-up of the usual suspects--flamboyant drag queens, a stereotypically gay guy, people with relationship problems, people with racial hostility, people freaking out, lovable homeless people, inquisitive little kids, purse snatchers, bikers, etc.

Much of the dialogue is along the lines of Tarantino's "Royale with Cheese" exchange from PULP FICTION, especially when the two fanboys rattle on endlessly about movies, comic books, and the usual stuff as they escort their new lady friend to her next stop after missing the bus.

It stretches a bit thin after awhile, at least during the more aimless chatter we must endure (Mace Windu quotes, Burton's Batman vs. Nolan's Batman) while mining nuggets of interest.

Semi-charming vignettes, such as an unlikely guitar player performing a sensitive ballad before silently exiting at his stop, come and go with varying success.  Things briefly catch fire when The Bride runs into her almost-sister-in-law in a yogurt shop and a screaming food fight ensues.

Eve Annenberg is tasked to carry it all with her character's sheer deadpan cuteness, but even the image of a runaway bride fleeing conformity and marital confinement is a familiar one, as Fanboy #1 reminds us when he recalls the end of THE GRADUATE.

Still, after what seems an endless night, her story finally does come to a fairly interesting resolution (with, oddly enough, a visual reminder of yet another runaway bride, this time Bonnie Bedelia in "Then Came Bronson") and the movie ends on a sufficiently satisfying note. 

I have a feeling there are those who will really enjoy FROM HOLLYWOOD TO ROSE and appreciate what it's going for--a slice of city life with an assortment of kooky character types and quirky dialogue in a revue-style story.  Personally, though, I was keeping an eye out for the next stop. 


June 16th Theatrical Release:
Laemmle Music Hall 3
9036 Wilshire Blvd
Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Watch the Trailer:

FROM HOLLYWOOD TO ROSE -- Movie Review by Porfle

2017 "Dances With Films" Announces Award Winners

 

2017 DANCES WITH FILMS ANNOUNCES AWARD WINNERS

ONE LESS GOD receives Grand Jury Prize for Best Feature

Grand Jury Best Shorts winner is LA SIRENA

The Industry Choice Award (ICA) Under 40 to RED
The Industry Choice (ICA) Over 40 to ONE LESS GOD

Audience Awards given in the following categories:
Competition Feature, Competition Short, Fusion Feature, Fusion Short, Documentary Feature, Documentary Short, Downbeat, Web Series and TV

Fusion Feature Winner: BEING BLACK ENOUGH OR (HOW TO KILL A BLACK MAN)

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 12, 2017) – The 20th edition of the fiercely independent film festival Dances With Films (DWF) concluded on Sunday evening (June 11) with a closing night celebration at the TCL Chinese Theaters in Hollywood where the excitement was electric throughout the arena. Filmmakers and VIP guests enjoyed the festival’s signature green carpet, awards ceremony, and a party featuring live music by Daniel Morris & Saizon Trio. Screening as the closing night film was the world premiere of AUSTIN FOUND from filmmaker Will Raée, starring Skeet Ulrich, Ursula Parker, Patrick Warburton, Matt Jones, Jon Daly, and Reza Sixo Safai, all of whom were in attendance. The film also stars Linda Cardellini, Jaime Pressley, Kristen Schaal, Craig Robinson, and Chris Parnell.

The unstoppable festival, for two decades a champion of independent filmmakers, is widely recognized as the premiere showcase of innovative independent cinema in the U.S., presenting amazing, undiscovered talent to an industry audience in Hollywood at the always jam-packed TCL Chinese Theaters.

ONE LESS GOD, a searing and intense drama about a terrorist takeover of a hotel in India based on true events, written and directed by Lliam Worthington, took home the Grand Jury Prize for Best Feature. The feature ELIZA SHERMAN’S REVENGE was given an Honorable Mention. The Grand Jury Prize for Best Short was awarded to LA SIRENA with Honorable Mentions given to WOMAN WITH AN EDITING BENCH and CONFECTION.

“ONE LESS GOD is one of the most masterful works we’ve seen come out of the Australian independent scene,” said DWF co-founders Michael Trent and Leslee Scallon. “It is powerfully relevant considering today’s headlines and we were honored to have the opportunity of presenting it to the world at this year’s festival.”

The prestigious 2017 Features Jury was comprised of past DWF winners Zack Bennett (The Ataxian), Clay Riley Hassler (Homeless), Tiffany Hassler (Homeless), and Michael David Lynch (Victor Walk). The Shorts Jury included DWF alum Kimberly Browning (Diamonds In The Rough), Romell Foster-Owens (Snake Oil Sam), and Mikeal Kreuzriegler (Sway).

The DWF Industry Choice Award is judged by industry powerhouse executives and all films in the festival (whether in competitive or fusion sections, features or shorts) are eligible. This year’s judges included feature producer Debbie Vandermeulen (Brahman Naman), television producer Hilton Smith (Super Girl, Deadwood), and President of Production at Ivanhoe Pictures Kilian Kerwin who awarded the films RED (under 40 minutes) and ONE LESS GOD (over 40 minutes).

The Audience Awards were given in numerous categories, including Downbeat (music videos and dance-themed films), Web Series, and TV Pilots, in addition to shorts and features. The full list of audience award winners is below.
The final lineup featured more than 193 titles, chosen from a record 2,100 submissions from all over the globe. The juried narrative competition section included 16 features, 14 of which were world premieres, and nearly three-dozen shorts. DWF also has categories for groundbreaking short and feature documentaries, provocative genre fare in the Midnight section, and the most exciting music videos and dance-themed films from the indie scene in the Downbeats section. The Fusion section brings together a multitude of additional features and shorts.

The festival also features the popular DANCES WITH PILOTS, which features the hottest new television and web pilots and the unique DANCES WITH KIDZ!, which screens films by and for kids.

GRAND JURY AWARDS
Best Feature: ONE LESS GOD
Honorable Mention - Feature: ELIZA SHERMAN’S REVENGE
Best Short: LA SIRENA
Honorable Mention - Shorts: WOMAN WITH AN EDITING BENCH and CONFECTION

INDUSTRY CHOICE AWARDS (ICA)
ICA Under 40 Minustes: RED
ICA Over 40 Minutes: ONE LESS GOD

AUDIENCE AWARDS
Competition Feature: HOLDEN ON
Competition Short: ALL THE MARBLES
Fusion Feature: BEING BLACK ENOUGH OR (HOW TO KILL A BLACK MAN)
Fusion Short: WINK
Documentary Feature: RESISTANCE IS LIFE
Documentary Short: MIRACLE IN MALIBU
Downbeat: ALIENTOLOGISTS
Web Series: DOUCHEAHOLICS
TV: NO PLACE TO FALL

About Dances With Films
In 1998 DWF began as a film festival dedicated to finding tomorrow’s talent today and continues to carry on this mission today. With many World and West Coast Premieres, DWF provides a coveted first stop on the festival circuit. With a vast number of submissions, the selection process is based solely on merit and discoverability. DWF continues its dedication to and is a devoted champion of fresh and creative voices, mandating that all competitive films have no known actors, writers, directors, or producers. For the past 20 years, DWF has proudly provided access and opportunity to thousands of films and filmmakers from across the globe that diligently work year after year to see their dreams realized. With more than 12,000+ festival attendees and 2.5 million impressions per month on www.danceswithfilms.com, DWF is loyal and dedicated to the indie filmmaker and is considered their champion in Hollywood.

DWF’s Advisory Board includes: Steve Tisch, Cindy Cowan, Jonathan Dana, Steve Elzer, Kevin Kasha, Eriq La Salle, Michael Lehmann, Mike Macari, Valerie McCaffrey, Mark V. Olsen, Joel Ordesky, Mark Ordesky, Melissa Orlen, Will Scheffer, Hilton Smith, David Spiegelman, and Steve Wegner.

 

2017 "Dances With Films" Announces Award Winners

Tom Cruise Stars in Universal's "AMERICAN MADE" in September

UNIVERSAL PICTURES'
"AMERICAN MADE"

STARRING TOM CRUISE
IN THEATERS SEPTEMBER 29, 2017

In Universal Pictures’ American Made, Tom Cruise reunites with his Edge of Tomorrow director, Doug Liman (The Bourne Identity, Mr. and Mrs. Smith), in this international escapade based on the outrageous (and real) exploits of a hustler and pilot unexpectedly recruited by the CIA to run one of the biggest covert operations in U.S. history.

Based on a true story, American Made co-stars Domhnall Gleeson, Sarah Wright, E. Roger Mitchell, Jesse Plemons, Lola Kirke, Alejandro Edda, Benito Martinez, Caleb Landry Jones and Jayma Mays.

The film is produced by Imagine Entertainment’s Academy Award®-winning producer Brian Grazer (A Beautiful Mind), Cross Creek Pictures’ Brian Oliver (Black Swan) and Tyler Thompson (Everest), Quadrant Pictures’ Doug Davison (The Departed), and Kim Roth (Inside Man). Gary Spinelli wrote the screenplay.

Watch the Trailer:


Genre
Thriller

Starring
Tom Cruise, Domhnall Gleeson, Sarah Wright, E. Roger Mitchell, Jesse Plemons, Lola Kirke, Alejandro Edda, Benito Martinez, Caleb Landry Jones, Jayma Mays

Directed By
Doug Liman

Produced By
Brian Grazer, Brian Oliver, Tyler Thompson, Doug Davison, Kim Roth

Executive Produced By
Ray Angelic

Tom Cruise Stars in Universal's "AMERICAN MADE" in September

Everyone Has a Dark Secret in Gareth Bryn's "THE PASSING" -- Official Trailer, Poster & Clip

Global Digital Releasing Unveils Official Trailer and Poster for Debut Film Launch - THE PASSING

Los Angeles, California (June 12, 2017) - Global Digital Releasing recently announced the worldwide digital and VOD release date of the award winning film THE PASSING.  Leading up to its official release on Tuesday, June 13th, the distributor is now debuting the official trailer, poster and newest clip, “The Visitor.”

The film, which was acquired for North America by XYZ Films, revolves around two young lovers (Annes Elwy and Dyfan Dwyfor). They crash their car into a ravine in the remote mountains of Wales. Dragged from the river by a mysterious figure they will later come to know him as Stanley (Mark Lewis Jones). Together, they are taken to a ramshackle farm, a place untouched by time. As events unfold, we learn the explosive truth about the young couple's past. More unsettling still, we discover the ghostly truth about Stanley and the tragedy of the valley he once called home.

Shot in the beautiful Welsh countryside, the film was written by Ed Talfan and directed by Gareth Bryn. In addition to winning three 2016 BAFTA Cymru awards: Best Actor: Mark Lewis Jones, Best Writer: Ed Talfan and Best Production Design: Tim Dickel, the film also won the Univercine Jury Award in the Nantes British Film Festival. Also, the film was nominated for Best Debut Screenplay, in the British Independent Film Awards 2016.

The film has also been critically acclaimed by multiple press outlets such as The Hollywood Reporter and The Guardian. Sight and Sound Magazine stated: “watertight in its construction, and steeped in all manner of melancholic transgressions. As satisfying as it is profoundly sorrowful.” And Popoptiq.com exclaimed: “…The Passing is a masterstroke of allegory and mood that continues to haunt long after it’s over.”

The film will be available in North America and across the globe on major platforms such as iTunes, Amazon Instant, Seed & Spark, Google Play, Sony PSN, X-Box Live, Vudu, Vimeo on Demand, Steam, Roku, Crackle, Hoopla and Tubi TV. Cable VOD will follow at a later date.  You can check out the official trailer and poster and the latest clip, titled “The Visitor,” right here!

The official trailer: 


A clip, titled “The Visitor”:


The Passing Youtube Playlist: http://bit.ly/2syJmdI

The official GDR Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/GlobalDigitalReleasing

Everyone Has a Dark Secret in Gareth Bryn's "THE PASSING" -- Official Trailer, Poster & Clip

Saban Films Takes North American Distribution Rights to Simon West's "GUN SHY" Starring Antonio Banderas and Olga Kurylenko

SABAN FILMS TAKES NORTH AMERICAN DISTRIBUTION RIGHTS TO SIMON WEST’S “GUN SHY” STARRING ANTONIO BANDERAS AND OLGA KURYLENKO

LOS ANGELES – June 8, 2017 – Saban Films has acquired North American distribution rights to Simon West’s (The Expendables 2, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider) Gun Shy (formerly Salty), starring Golden Globe Nominee Antonio Banderas (The Mask of Zorro, Desperado) and Olga Kurylenko (Quantum of Solace, Oblivion). The action film was written by Toby Davies and Mark Haskell Smith.  West and Jib Polhemus produced under the Simon West Productions banner alongside Harry Stourton.

Adapted from the novel also written by Haskell Smith, Gun Shy follows Turk Henry (Banderas), an aging mid-level rock star whose supermodel wife (Kurylenko) is suddenly kidnapped while they are vacationing in Chile. Accustomed to his superstar lifestyle and lacking basic life-skills, Turk finds himself perplexed in having to navigate the back alleys of Santiago and South American jungles in order to save his wife from the renegades.

“Gun Shy is a supremely entertaining film,” said Saban Films’ Bill Bromiley. “Our audiences will delight in Antonio Banderas’ raucous performance and director Simon West’s unique and wild vision.”

Gun Shy will be released in theatres on September 8th in key cities throughout America and Canada. Ness Saban and Bill Bromiley negotiated the deal on behalf of Saban Films, with London-based Carnaby International handling worldwide rights.

Saban Films continues to be an active buyer following the acquisitions of John Travolta’s Speed Kills and the Ethan Hawke Action/Thriller 24 Hours to Live at the Cannes International Film Festival.

Earlier this year, Saban Films acquired FilmNation’s sci-fi film Kill Switch starring Dan Stevens and Bérénice Marlohe. Saban Films’ slate also includes: Ric Roman Waugh’s Shot Caller starring Nikolaj Coster-Waldau and Lake Bell; John Stockwell’s Armed Response starring Wesley Snipes and Anne Heche; Alexandros Avranas’ True Crime starring Jim Carrey; Small Town Crime starring John Hawkes, Anthony Anderson, and Octavia Spencer; Roland Joffé’s The Forgiven starring Forest Whitaker and Eric Bana, Sean Penn’s The Last Face starring Charlize Theron and Javier Bardem; and Jonathan Mostow’s The Hunter’s Prayer starring Sam Worthington and Odeya Rush.   

About Saban Films
Saban Films, an affiliate of Saban Capital Group (“SCG”), is a film acquisition and distribution company which acquires high-quality, feature films to distribute in North America. Focusing on commercial, talent driven films, the company looks at projects in all stages of production for release across multiple platforms, including a day and date theatrical/VOD release strategy. Based in Los Angeles, Saban Films was established by Haim Saban, SCG Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and is led by Bill Bromiley who serves as president, Shanan Becker, Chief Financial Officer and Ness Saban, Director of Business Development.

Since the company’s launch in 2014, Saban Films has released 23 films.  The 2017 Saban Films slate includes: John Michael McDonagh’s War on Everyone starring Michael Peña, Alexander Skarsgård, Theo James, and Tessa Thompson; Colm McCarthy’s critically acclaimed apocalyptic thriller The Girl with All the Gifts starring Glenn Close, Gemma Arterton and Paddy Considine; Walter Hill’s The Assignment starring Michelle Rodriguez, Sigourney Weaver, Tony Shalhoub, Anthony LaPaglia; Jonathan Mostow’s The Hunter’s Prayer starring Sam Worthington and Odeya Rush; and Sean Penn’s The Last Face starring Charlize Theron and Javier Bardem.

About Carnaby International Sales and Distribution PLC
Carnaby International Sales and Distribution PLC is an all rights UK distributor and International Sales agent, whilst also offering co-production and financing. Carnaby International PLC was established in 2001 and is dubbed an ‘Indie Giant’.  The company was originally set up with the specific purpose of financing and producing British feature films with 14 feature films and over 800 hours of TV programming - which has sold extensively worldwide - to its credit.  The company's Co-production, Sales and Distribution division is based in London's Soho and run by Sean O’Kelly and Andrew Loveday.  Whilst the Finance and Production Division is based in Essex and headed by Terry and Michael Loveday. The company has raised over $80M in the last 7 years and is continuously looking for commercial projects with strong talent.

Saban Films Takes North American Distribution Rights to Simon West's "GUN SHY" Starring Antonio Banderas and Olga Kurylenko

The Eminent Demise of DVDs (from Zootscoop.com)

The Eminent Demise of DVDs
by John Francis

Posted on June 5, 2017 in Entertainment  (ZootScoop.com)

“OK, class, show of hands. When did you last rent a DVD movie?”
No hands.
“OK, when did you last buy a DVD movie?”
Still no hands.
“Uh, what’s a DVD? Are you kidding me?”

That scenario may play out sooner than you think, but don’t toss your DVD player and DVD copies of “Titanic” and “Toy Story” into the garage sale box just yet.

While it’s true that DVD sales and rentals have declined in the past few years, it’s not as precipitous a drop as some observers have predicted. DVD sales dropped by 28% in 2015 with $12.2 billion and is expected to drop to $8.7 billion in 2018. By next year, streaming and digital downloads will be the biggest moneymakers in the film industry. In fact, according to Price Waterhouse Cooper, by 2018, digital video will make more profit than movies’ theatrical box office.

Maybe we should be talking about the demise of movie theaters? Well, that’s a discussion for another article, which we’ve covered in Z’Scoop earlier this year. But even Price Waterhouse doesn’t think movie theaters will become obsolete, as new innovations, trends and viewing habits keep it viable.

So, DVD sales are declining and DVD rentals are making a slow slide, again, not as drastically as you would imagine (Redbox has 52% of the rental market with more than 1 billion movies and games rented each year, Netflix DVD rentals owns most of the other share), so despite the competition, DVDs are doing relatively well and here’s why...

READ MORE

The Eminent Demise of DVDs (from Zootscoop.com)

Marvel's "BLACK PANTHER" -- Watch the Teaser Trailer NOW!

The new teaser trailer for
Marvel Studios' BLACK PANTHER
is now available!



Marvel Studios' "Black Panther" follows T'Challa who, after the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king.

But when a powerful old enemy reappears, T'Challa's mettle as king-and Black Panther-is tested when he is drawn into a formidable conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk. Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people and their way of life.

"Black Panther" stars Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, with Angela Bassett, with Forest Whitaker, and Andy Serkis.

The film is directed by Ryan Coogler and produced by Kevin Feige with Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Nate Moore, Jeffrey Chernov and Stan Lee serving as executive producers. Ryan Coogler & Joe Robert Cole wrote the screenplay. 

Marvel's "BLACK PANTHER" -- Watch the Teaser Trailer NOW!

Sam Elliott in "THE HERO" -- In NY/LA Theaters June 9, Nationwide June/July

SAM ELLIOTT IN
"THE HERO"

IN NY/LA THEATERS JUNE 9
NATIONWIDE JUNE/JULY

THE HERO stars the legendary Sam Elliott as an aging actor confronting mortality in the moving new film from writer/director Brett Haley (I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS). 

Lee Hayden (Elliott) is a Western icon with a golden voice, but his best performances are decades behind him. He spends his days reliving old glories and smoking too much weed with his former-co-star-turned-dealer, Jeremy (Nick Offerman), until a surprise cancer diagnosis brings his priorities into sharp focus.

 

 

He soon strikes up an exciting, contentious relationship with stand-up comic Charlotte (Laura Prepon), and he attempts to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Lucy (Krysten Ritter), all while searching for one final role to cement his legacy.

THE HERO is a beautiful and poignant celebration of life and the legacies we all leave behind.

Watch the Trailer:

Sam Elliott in "THE HERO" -- In NY/LA Theaters June 9, Nationwide June/July

Halle Berry in "KIDNAP" From Aviron Pictures -- New Trailer and One-Sheet

"KIDNAP" OPENS IN THEATERS NATIONWIDE August 4, 2017
      
A typical afternoon in the park turns into a nightmare for single mom Karla Dyson (Academy Award winner Halle Berry) when her son suddenly disappears. Without a cell phone and knowing she has no time to wait for police help, Karla jumps in her own car and sets off in pursuit of the kidnappers.

A relentless, edge-of-your seat chase ensues, where Karla must risk everything to not lose sight of her son. In this tense, action-fueled thriller, directed by Luis Prieto and from the producers of SALT and TRANSFORMERS, one mother's heroic attempt to take back her son leads her to ask herself how far she will go to save her child.

WATCH THE TRAILER


KIDNAP Official Channels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KidnapMovie/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KidnapMovie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidnapmovie/

Starring
Halle Berry

Directed By
Luis Prieto

Produced By
Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Erik Howsam, Joey Tufaro, Gregory Chou, Halle Berry and Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas

Halle Berry in "KIDNAP" From Aviron Pictures -- New Trailer and One-Sheet

BEING BLACK ENOUGH OR (HOW TO KILL A BLACK MAN) -- Movie Review by Porfle

I've been pretty lucky with movies this week, seeing a few that I didn't expect much from at first and ending up getting bowled over by them. With BEING BLACK ENOUGH OR (HOW TO KILL A BLACK MAN) (2017) I thought I was in for the usual screed about white oppression.  What I didn't expect was that the most immediate oppression suffered by Cody, a young, middle-class black teen, comes from members of his own race. 

Cody, it seems, isn't "black" enough, at least by the standards of his more streetwise peers as well as people from other races who berate him, in a sort of "cultural appropriation" montage, for trying to mimic elements of their own lifestyles. 

In a particularly poignant flashback, we see little Cody asking his father, "Dad...how do I learn to be a black man?  How did YOU learn how to be a black man?"

So, in order to shed himself of his "Oreo" image, Cody first turns to the internet and asks Google what it means to be black.  This calls up a lot of what I, and apparently writer-director Devin Rice as well, would consider negative examples, especially when a particular Tupac song lists things that a "real ni**a" is supposed to focus on.  This includes all the usual stuff you'd expect such as bitches, weed, guns, etc. ("because that's what ni**as do.")

What follows is Cody's clumsy attempt to rectify his perceived whiteness, venturing into the South Central hood and seeking out his older cousin Kyle (Bruce Lemon) to serve as mentor and role model.  After getting beaten up and almost shot by Kyle's friends before he steps in, Cody is brought under their collective wing and given lessons on "blackness" that would have his concerned mother (Gina Jackson) reeling in dismay.

Here, BEING BLACK ENOUGH lulls us into thinking that maybe it'll veer more into comedy territory rather than being a slow descent into tragedy.  Indeed, some of Cody's bumbling efforts are laugh-provoking, especially when he first handles firearms. 

 

A visit to a strip club in which Kyle's crew throw wads of cash around ("Where'd you guys get all that money?" "Commerce. You don't need to know") pokes the usual fun at Cody's virginal shyness.

There's also the subplot about Cody's budding, secret romance with Jennifer (Danielle Jaffey), a bubbly Hispanic girl whose brother is Cody's best friend.  While this gives the film some charming moments in the rom-com vein, it also serves as an ominous foreshadowing of a situation that could, and will, go really wrong. 

That's where Devin Rice the filmmaker (he wears several production caps as well as impressively playing the lead role) delivers his most powerful gut-punch moments--setting up situations and letting them play out in seriocomic fashion until our guard is down, then having everything plunge straight into tragedy at a moment's notice. 

All the while, Cody is like a misguided Alice in a dark wonderland he only thinks he understands and wants to be a part of, his gangsta fantasy becoming all too real when bullets fly and people die.  What Devin Rice succeeds in doing, in addition to putting together a gripping film with considerable style, is to make us care about these characters as we're swept up in their experiences with rapt attention and empathy. 

Not being black, I can only guess how realistic and true-to-life BEING BLACK ENOUGH OR (HOW TO KILL A BLACK MAN) is, but I do know that it makes for a compelling screen story.  Rice definitely has a message to put across here, one which means a lot to him, and he does so powerfully and in no uncertain terms. 


Dances With Films:
World Premiere Saturday, June 10, 2017
TCL Chinese 6
7:15 pm
6801 Hollywood Blvd

Tickets:  https://danceswithfilms.com/being-black-enough/

BEING BLACK ENOUGH OR (HOW TO KILL A BLACK MAN) -- Movie Review by Porfle

WICHITA -- Movie Review by Porfle

What's this? An imaginative new variation on the old "a group of people in a secluded cabin/house/camp get terrorized by a stalker" yarn?  Why, you could've knocked me over with a shovel, which is what happens to one or two of the ill-fated characters in Candy Factory's upcoming DVD release WICHITA (2016). 

Not only does it add a new wrinkle to an old formula, but directors Justyn Ah Chong and Matthew D. Ward, working from Ward's original screenplay, manage to make it all quite watchable with tension and suspense to spare.

Jeb (Trevor Peterson, GRIZZLY PARK, SKY) is the creator of a children's cartoon show, "Amy and the Aliens", that's sagging in the ratings.  So his surly boss orders him to spend a month in a house in the woods with a writing team, and, in the midst of brainstorming their heads off, churn out thirty excellent scripts in thirty days.  Or else.

 

Being that the show is Jeb's baby, and that he's somewhat of a baby himself--narcissistic, insecure, paranoid, maybe a tad schizo (and those are his good qualities)--he manages to alienate everyone involved, especially when they'd rather have a little fun now and then instead of laboring 24 hours a day inside a pressure cooker. 

Some of them, like overaged frat boy Billy (Christopher Wolfe), even want to have--SEX!  What's worse, he has it with Jeb's long-time heartthrob Raven (Persia White, "Girlfriends") while Jeb watches via one of the many hidden cameras placed throughout the house.  Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, Jeb's a big-time voyeur and he's putting together a "behind-the-scenes" film about their little forest retreat. 

Meanwhile, he gleefully exerts power over another member of the team by blackmail (thanks again to his hidden-camera obsession), and still another through even more sinister means.  The first half of the story, in fact, is pretty much us watching Jeb's sanity and his standing within the group--who all pretty much despise him except for a supportive older lady named Joan (Melinda Lee)--withering away as his behavior becomes increasingly erratic and vindictive.

 

Eventually things come to a head when Jeb is fired over the phone by the mean boss and flees to the bosom, so to speak, of his mom.  Two things happen: (1) we're treated to a special appearance by 70s cult actress Sondra Blake (Robert's ex) as Mama, playing the part of the stereotypical "religious fanatic" to the delicious hilt (she's awesome), and (2) Jeb finally goes off the deep end. Really off.  Really deep.

When Jeb decides it's time to "wrap things up", so to speak, that's when WICHITA kicks into high gear and turns into the taut psycho-thriller we've been hoping for all along.  It never goes over the top, never gets too melodramatic, implausible, or gratuitously violent (it is violent, but not as an end in itself), and plays out the last riveting thread of the story until we're hanging on every moment. 

Performances are uniformly good, including Demetri Goritsas as Clark, a recovering alcoholic living in fear that Jeb will tell his ex-wife he's fallen off the wagon, and Caitlin Gerard as Natalie, the bratty, spiteful daughter of the show's executive producer who voices the cartoon's main character.

Sondra Blake, of course, is a special occasion unto herself as Jeb's mom.  As Jeb, Trevor Peterson helps carry the film with a fascinating and at times almost "Joker"-like performance. 

WICHITA isn't quite blockbuster material, and it took a second viewing for me to really begin to appreciate its nuances.  But it's head-and-shoulders above most of the "killer in the woods" dreck stalking the DVD racks.  And it's deadly fun, too.  


PROGRAM INFORMATION
Type: DVD//Digital HD (iTunes, Amazon, Google Play) 
Running Time: 85 mins.
Rating: N/A
Genre: Horror
Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1
Audio: 5.1 Surround Sound

Available on DVD and Digital HD Platforms
Including iTunes, Amazon and Google Play

Street Date: June 20, 2017

Read our original coverage

WICHITA -- Movie Review by Porfle

STEVE MARTIN, ROBIN WILLIAMS and EDDIE MURPHY Are Featured in Nine New-to-Retail "TONIGHT SHOW" Episodes Coming to DVD from Time Life

THIS JULY, TIME LIFE RELEASES NINE NEW-TO-RETAIL EPISODES OF "THE TONIGHT SHOW" FEATURING THREE OF CONTEMPORARY COMEDY'S MOST ICONIC PERSONALITIES

THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JOHNNY CARSON:
JOHNNY AND FRIENDS
FEATURING STEVE MARTIN, ROBIN WILLIAMS & EDDIE MURPHY

Street Date: July 4, 2017
SRP: $29.95

This Collectible 3-Disc Set Features Over Eight Hours of Vintage Carson from the '70s, '80s and '90s - Some of the Most Cherished Moments from the 30 Year Run of "The Tonight Show" - Including Commercials!

Watch the Trailer:


PROGRAM SYNOPSIS

THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JOHNNY CARSON: JOHNNY AND FRIENDS FEATURING STEVE MARTIN, ROBIN WILLIAMS & EDDIE MURPHY contains nine new-to retail shows from the '70s, '80s and '90s featuring three of the most loved guests from "The Tonight Show" -- Steve Martin, Robin Williams and Eddie Murphy.  Each DVD contains complete, unedited shows -- including vintage commercials -- highlighting some of the most cherished moments from 30 years of "The Tonight Show."

DISC 1-STEVE MARTIN

Arguably the best thing that ever happened to young Steve Martin was being temporarily banished as a Tonight Show guest in 1972. Martin was an Emmy-winning writer (The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour) but hadn't worked up quite enough material for himself. Invited back later as a guest host, a more polished Martin clicked.

Original Air Dates:

    July 21, 1976: Steve Martin, Jimmy Stewart, Karen Black, and more
    May 21, 1982: Steve Martin, Sylvester Stallone
    December 19, 1991: Steve Martin, Cathy Ladman, Leon Redbone

DISC 2-ROBIN WILLIAMS

Robin Williams took pleasure in stumping the host with his utter unpredictability and free-association
riffs. Williams' bits ranged across the social spectrum, bouncing off the latest fads and fashions along with ego-deflating commentary about the day's newsmakers. Johnny could not have been having a better time or been more in awe at the comedic juggernaut.

Original Air Dates:

    April 3, 1984: Robin Williams, Phyllis Newman
    January 10, 1991: Robin Williams, Steve Lawrence
    September 19, 1991: Robin Williams, Jonathan Winters, Park Overall

DISC 3-EDDIE MURPHY

Three appearances over a span of seven months in 1982 illustrate Eddie Murphy's vault to superstardom. His debut occurred less than halfway into his first full Saturday Night Live season; by his third appearance, he had become a breakout star, released his Grammy-nominated debut album, and was shooting his first movie.

Original Air Dates:

    January 1, 1982: Eddie Murphy, McLean Stevenson
    February 10, 1982: Eddie Murphy, Wayne Rogers, Albert Hague
    July 30, 1982: Eddie Murphy, Randall "Tex" Cobb, Angela Bofill

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Format: DVD/3 Discs
Running Time: 499 minutes
Genre:  TV DVD/Comedy
Aspect Ratio: 1.33:1
Audio: Stereo

STEVE MARTIN, ROBIN WILLIAMS and EDDIE MURPHY Are Featured in Nine New-to-Retail "TONIGHT SHOW" Episodes Coming to DVD from Time Life

"TELETUBBIES: BUBBLES" -- Six All-New Episodes on DVD June 20

TELETUBBIES: BUBBLES

Six All-New Episodes on DVD June 20

Featuring the Teletubbies Singing “Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” and a Special Featurette with the Lovable Laa-Laa!

CULVER CITY, Calif. (June 5, 2016) – Families everywhere can get ready to sing, dance and splash with the Teletubbies, when TELETUBBIES: BUBBLES arrives on DVD on June 20. Timed perfectly with “International Bath Day” on June 14, the six all-new episodes feature Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po as they sing, dance, play and of course, eat Tubby Custard! TELETUBBIES: BUBBLES includes two all-new engaging featurettes: In the first, fans can join the Teletubbies as they sing the classic song, “Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes”; in the second, little ones can learn more about Laa-Laa, the sweet, song and dance-loving yellow Teletubby!

Synopsis:
The Tubby Custard Machine is making lots and lots of Tubby Custard bubbles! Join the Teletubbies as they chase and pop bubbles, play with a magical music box and dance the energetic Tubby Phone Dance. Contains six new episodes, including “Bubbles”.

Bonus Features Include:

·         “Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” Song

·         Meet the Characters: Laa-Laa

TELETUBBIES: BUBBLES has a run time of approximately 74 minutes. The collection is not rated.

ABOUT SONY PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) is a Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) company. Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE’s global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition and distribution; television production, acquisition and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. For additional information, go to http://www.sonypictures.com.

ABOUT TELETUBBIES
Originally created in 1997, Teletubbies is one of the most successful global children’s brands of all-time. Targeted at young pre-school viewers, it has reached over 1 billion children to date. The original episodes have aired in over 120 territories in 45 different languages.

Debuting on Nick Jr. in May 2016, the new Teletubbies series (60 x 12 min. episodes) stays true to the original series but is designed to captivate today’s digital toddlers with updated elements and visual CGI-enhancements. The characters now have Touch-Screen Tummies and high-tech gadgets like the Tubby Phone smartphone, introducing a contemporary twist for a new generation of pre-schoolers. The multi award-winning Teletubbies encourages young children to watch television creatively, providing a safe and beneficial viewing experience. Teletubbies is produced by DHX Media. www.teletubbies.com

ABOUT DHX MEDIA
DHX Media Ltd. (TSX: DHX.A, DHX.B; NASDAQ: DHXM) is a leading children’s content and brands company, recognized globally for such high-profile properties as Teletubbies, Yo Gabba Gabba!, Caillou, Inspector Gadget, and the acclaimed Degrassi franchise. The Company is a leading producer of children’s shows and owns the world’s largest independent library of children’s content, at more than 12,500 half-hours. It licenses its content to broadcasters and streaming services worldwide and generates royalties through its robust global consumer products program. Through its subsidiary, WildBrain, DHX Media operates one of the largest networks of children’s channels on YouTube. Headquartered in Canada, DHX Media has 17 offices worldwide. On May 10, 2017, DHX Media announced it had signed definitive agreements to acquire 80% of the famed Peanuts brand and 100% of the Strawberry Shortcake brand, which transactions are expected to close on or around June 30, 2017. Visit us at www.dhxmedia.com.

TELETUBBIES and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of DHX Worldwide Limited. ©2017 DHX Worldwide Limited. All Rights Reserved. 

"TELETUBBIES: BUBBLES" -- Six All-New Episodes on DVD June 20

"WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES" and Jane Goodall Institute Partnership

20th Century Fox Partners with the Jane Goodall Institute to Aid in Rehabilitation of Chimpanzees in Honor of War for the Planet of the Apes

WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES Hits Theaters Everywhere July 14, 2017


Housing for rehabilitated chimps to be named Caesar’s Home, after the movie’s simian hero

JUNE 5, 2017 (Los Angeles, CA) - In honor of the upcoming release of War for the Planet of the Apes, 20th Century Fox has partnered with the Jane Goodall Institute to provide care for rescued chimpanzees, many of whom are victims of the illegal commercial bushmeat and pet trades. Housed and cared for on three forested island sanctuary sites and a mainland sanctuary site at the Institute’s Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Center in Republic of Congo, nearly 150 chimpanzees will benefit from this partnership.

“I think that the Planet of the Apes series makes people think about the apes and perhaps our relationship to them,” says Dr. Jane Goodall. “And anything that makes us think about our own humanity in relation to the rest of the animal kingdom is important.  So I think the series has helped”. 

“It is an honor and a privilege to partner with the Jane Goodall Institute in providing needed care for our closest living animal relatives,” said the film’s director Matt Reeves. “Over the course of filming Caesar’s cinematic journey, it’s fascinated me to learn so much about apes and chimpanzees, these amazing sentient animals who organize, strategize and even socialize in much the same way as humans.  Our hope is this reimagined Apes franchise will spark a fresh awareness, compassion and respect for these majestic species for generations to come.”

The island sites where many of these chimpanzees now live, not only provide a partial return to the kind of habitat from which they were stolen, but also the opportunity to build strong, dynamic social communities together in the wild - a true second chance. Just as the apes in the film franchise work together to establish their own community, the chimpanzees who live at Tchimpounga are building their own communities. Many of them are not family members, and so through observation and rigorous personality research the Institute’s staff pairs chimpanzees they believe will thrive together in their new communities within the sanctuary.

“One of the main threats to great apes is hunting and wildlife trafficking. Many of the chimpanzees rescued by JGI were orphaned to be taken as pets or for “roadside attractions,” said Dr. Carlos Drews, the Institute’s executive director. “While use of great apes in entertainment may be diminishing in some regions, it is increasing in others. Not only is there no need to use chimpanzees and other great apes in entertainment, but it is a moral imperative to find alternatives. With films like War for the Planet of the Apes using effective and magnificent human actor performance capture and computer generated imagery, it demonstrates to the world a better way forward for chimps and all animals.”

As a token of gratitude for this partnership, the Institute has named the housing on Tchindzoulou island, the largest of the three island sanctuary sites, after War for the Planet of the Apes’ hero chimpanzee, Caesar.

To learn more about this partnership visit news.janegoodall.org/planetoftheapes and to learn more about War for the Planet of the Apes visit warfortheplanet.com.

#WarForThePlanet #JaneGoodallInstitute #WorldEnviromentDay

About the Jane Goodall Institute
The Jane Goodall Institute is a global community conservation organization that advances the vision and work of Dr. Jane Goodall. By protecting chimpanzees and inspiring action to conserve the natural world we all share, we improve the lives of people, animals and the environment. Founded in 1977 by Dr. Goodall, JGI makes a difference through community-centered conservation and the innovative use of science and technology. We work closely with local communities around the world, inspiring hope through the collective power of individual action. Through Roots & Shoots, our youth-led community action and learning program, young people in 140 countries are acquiring the knowledge and skills to become compassionate conservation leaders in their own backyards.

About War for the Planet of the Apes
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.

About 20th Century Fox
One of the world’s largest producers and distributors of motion pictures, 20th Century Fox Film produces, acquires and distributes motion pictures throughout the world.  These motion pictures are produced or acquired by the following units of 20th Century Fox Film:  Twentieth Century Fox, Fox 2000 Pictures, Fox Searchlight Pictures, Fox International Productions, and Twentieth Century Fox Animation.

"WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES" and Jane Goodall Institute Partnership

INHERITANCE -- Movie Review by Porfle

I love it when I sit down to watch a movie I know nothing about, and it grabs me from the very start.  INHERITANCE (2017) is one of those movies--it takes a firm grasp on the viewer and, without once having to get loud, flashy, or hyperactive, doesn't let go until the fadeout.

The story has an unassuming premise at first, with manual laborer Ryan (Chase Joliet, KRISHA, LUMBERJACK MAN) inheriting a lavish ocean-front estate from his biological father, whom he never knew, and temporarily moving in along with expectant wife-to-be Isi (TV actress Sara Montez making her feature debut) with plans to sell it later. 

What neither is aware of, however, is the dark history of both the house and Ryan's mysterious blood relatives, and the increasingly malevolent influence these will begin to have upon him the longer he stays beneath its roof.

While the word "horror" covers much of what follows, "psychological thriller" is an equally apt term as we slowly make the descent along with Ryan into the murky depths of his own mind. 

We know, from those first stately, formal camera shots in which we glimpse the young couple moving about in the periphery, that something is just plain wrong about the house.

The place seems to exude a knowing aura of bad dreams and memories that will haunt Ryan and take hold of his thoughts and behavior, driving a wedge between himself and Isi that will make them strangers to one another as its oppressive influence inexorably closes in.

Before long he begins to see glimpses of phantom faces in reflections, while visions of murder and other evil deeds from the past seep into his mind. We even begin to fear for his unborn child, a descendant of the mysterious bloodline whose ill effects Ryan himself is only now starting to feel.

Not actually scary, per se, INHERITANCE is deeply unsettling and very eerie, taking its time to build a strong mood that will have us hanging on its every development without the usual tricks or gimmicks so many contemporary horror flicks need to hold our attention and "scare" us. 

The film is a pleasure to look at as well.  I love first-time writer/director Tyler Savage's very deliberate and dreamlike visual style, especially in several telling montages which are enhanced by an atmospheric musical score. 

Camerawork and editing are first-rate as well.  This is one of those movies you can appreciate solely on pictorial terms, through which much of the story is grippingly conveyed with minimal to no dialogue.

Even so, there's an incredible dinner scene with Ryan and Isi hosting his boorish, tipsy stepsister Allie and her husband in which devastating dialogue, along with some bravura acting (Ashley Spillers as Allie deserves some kind of an award for this brief but memorable performance) takes center stage.

Savage handles it superbly in a single take as the camera creeps in and out among the participants and the dialogue slowly goes from harmless chatter to  raw, emotionally-wounding recriminations.  It's exquisitely executed, like watching a trainwreck filmed in elegant slow-motion.

Other scenes are equally effective, as when Ryan discovers a local who claims to be his "cousin" (Drew Powell) furtively digging for something in the backyard (he'll later steal several family items from the storage shed), or when Ryan visits an elderly neighbor named Bonnie (Krisha Fairchild) whose careworn face hides chilling secrets. 

The story doesn't need a slam-bang, effects-laden finish, so it merely ends with a disturbing deed that results from a tragic case of mistaken identity.  With Ryan (and us) seriously doubting his own sanity, the deftly-handled revelations at the end of INHERITANCE only leave us with more doubts, and more deep-seated apprehension.


World Premiere at Dances With Films June 2nd

Tickets:  https://danceswithfilms.com/inheritance/

Dances With Films:
Friday, June 2, 2017
TCL Chinese 6
9:30 pm
6801 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, CA 90028

INHERITANCE -- Movie Review by Porfle

"MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS" Trailer Now Available -- Hits Theaters Nov. 10

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
Hits Theaters Everywhere November 10, 2017

Everyone Is A Suspect

20th Century Fox has released the first trailer for MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS. From the novel by best-selling author Agatha Christie, "Murder on the Orient Express" tells the tale of thirteen strangers stranded on a train, where everyone's a suspect. Kenneth Branagh directs and leads an all-star cast including Penélope Cruz, Willem Dafoe, Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley and Josh Gad.

Clues are everywhere. Everyone is a suspect. Find the clues hidden in the new poster and trailer and visit CluesAreEverywhere.com to discover more of the mystery.  Be sure to follow the mystery in the months to come!

WATCH THE TRAILER:


MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
Mystery
Release: November 10, 2017
Director: Kenneth Branagh

Screenplay by: Michael Green

Based upon the Novel by: Agatha Christie

Produced by: Ridley Scott, Mark Gordon, Simon Kinberg, Kenneth Branagh, Judy Hofflund, Michael Schaefer

Cast: Tom Bateman, Kenneth Branagh, Penélope Cruz, Willem Dafoe, Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Josh Gad, Derek Jacobi, Leslie Odom Jr., Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley, Marwan Kenzari, Olivia Colman, Lucy Boynton, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Sergei Polunin

SYNOPSIS
What starts out as a lavish train ride through Europe quickly unfolds into one of the most stylish, suspenseful and thrilling mysteries ever told. From the novel by best-selling author Agatha Christie, "Murder on the Orient Express" tells the tale of thirteen strangers stranded on a train, where everyone's a suspect. One man must race against time to solve the puzzle before the murderer strikes again. Kenneth Branagh directs and leads an all-star cast including Penélope Cruz, Willem Dafoe, Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley and Josh Gad.

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS Official Channels
WEBSITE:  CluesAreEverywhere.com
FACEBOOK:  Facebook.com/OrientExpressMovie
TWITTER:  Twitter.com/OrientExpress
INSTAGRAM:  Instagram.com/OrientExpressMovie/
#OrientExpressMovie

"MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS" Trailer Now Available -- Hits Theaters Nov. 10

CENTRAL PARK -- Movie Review by Porfle

Another group of annoying teens is stalked by another mysterious slasher in another forest, but this time the forest is in CENTRAL PARK (2017) and the teens are even more annoying, and dumber, than usual.

Of course, the fact that they're so annoying and their antics and dialogue so insipid actually helps the film's realism.  As for "dumb", well--they're in the heart of New York City and they still can't manage to get through to 911 on their cell phones when the gore hits the blade.

The reason they're in Central Park in the first place is to help cheer up their friend Harold (Justiin A. Davis), whose father has been caught bilking people out of about three billion dollars, throwing his family and his whole life into chaos.

Thus, time for a friendly get-together around the campfire with a few illicit substances and, since the group consists of three couples, some harmless hanky-panky.
   
But first, the exposition, and CENTRAL PARK takes its sweet time introducing us to all the characters and showing what daily high school life is like for them--a little getting in trouble with teacher in English class, a little girl talk in the girls' room, and, for Harold, some really hurtful taunting about his criminal dad.

By the time they finally make it into the park, we're about ready for a break, too.  And after some extended chit-chat, including a tense game of "Truth or Dare", first-time writer/director Justin Reinsilber brings on the carnage and doesn't let up.

 

Everything's complicated by a subplot in which a woman who lives nearby enlists her ex-husband, a plainclothes cop, to help locate her current husband who's missing after taking a bike ride into the park. 

Gorehounds may be disappointed, since much of the violence is implied (unless you count some quick shots of a guy on fire and a glimpse of a blade protruding from someone's mouth) and there really isn't that much of the old wet stuff to be seen.

The killer himself turns out to be rather intriguing after a surprise reveal late in the story in which we learn both identity and motive.  As for his victims, the more likable ones go first (that's purely subjective, of course) leaving us to rather enjoy watching the rest of them get picked off.

And speaking of "dumb" again, the first time they stumble across a body they all go screaming off into the dark woods in different directions, alone, making themselves perfect targets for the killer to dispose of at his leisure.  His techniques, we discover, are fairly ordinary as far as stalker/slashers go.

CENTRAL PARK itself is pretty standard, old-school stuff of the kind one might have rented on VHS (video stores used to be full of titles like this) or watched on Cinemax back in the 80s.  Nothing special, but perfectly passable entertainment for undemanding genre fans with some time to kill.


Premieres at Dances With Films Saturday, June 3, 2017
TCL Chinese 6
11:45 pm
6801 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, CA 90028

Tickets:  https://danceswithfilms.com/central-park/

CENTRAL PARK -- Movie Review by Porfle