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richmondchandler
Reviews
Saving Hope (2019)
Story with Great Potential wasted by Bad Acting
When I read the synopsis, it seemed likable enough. Basically, a young lady returns to her small home after a family member's death. She learns she inherits everything, which is substantial, but of course there's a stipulation. The location shots, sets, etc are all pleasant, and they do an exceptional job at conveying the small town feel, even though it was shot in Los Angeles. But that's where the good stuff ends.
As an entertainer myself, let me say if I don't like someone's performance, I'll keep it to myself. But on this case, it's pretty much the entire cast. Smiling thru serious lines, big pauses in dialogue as if they forgot what the line was, when lines are read, they're pretty monotone. I was certain this was a low budget student film, the kind where they cast all of their friends and family to save money, regardless of their talent (or lack there of). I tried to look past it and gave it a chance anyway, waiting til the end. Silver lining: At least I saw it for free (on Freevee ).
Blithe Spirit (2020)
Fun tribute to the slapstick films of the 30's & 40's
This is a nicely done adaptation of a Noel Coward classic. Beautifully shot in an old Hollywood Art Deco style, with lush sets and costumes, not to mention the talented cast including Dan Stevens, Dame adjust Dench, Isla Fischer and Leslie Mann. It's fast paced, very witty, and classically comedic. I liked it.
Now, There have been some negative reviews so far, and I don't understand why. I performed this show professionally. I've also done various other plays by this author. No matter the venue or the Director, it's always the same style: fast paced, lots of dialogue filled with deadpan humor mixed with a bit of slapstick. That's Noel Coward, and that's exactly what this film is.
It's not a documentary, it's a loving tribute to the old comedies of yesteryear, it's just meant to entertain, nothing more. I thought it was fun and definitely what I needed, especially during this pandemic. See it, enjoy it, old school style.
Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
Action Packed, Wildly Entertaining Fun!!!
Wouldn't be Christmas to me without going to see an entertaining blockbuster movie. WW84 (aka Wonder Woman 1984) fits the Bill perfectly! Talk about nonstop action! Infuse that with some comedy, some romance, phenomenal special effects and you've got one heck of a film! Gal Gadot is so great in her role (as are all the cast), & I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. Like those thrilling Saturday matinees you to used to love as a kid! I'm recommending this highly! Now in theaters and HBO Max. PS: It may be DC, but they took a page out of Marvel, so make sure you stay thru the credits!
The Prom (2020)
Feel Good Campy Musical Fun!!!
I saw "The Prom" on Broadway a couple of times, and was so moved by it (as was the whole audience). I told everyone about it, bought all the merchandise, played the soundtrack over and over, etc. Point: I LOVED the Broadway version. So I was super excited to find out that Netflix was making a film version, and have been looking forward to it for a long time.
I was a little hesitant when I heard about the decision to cast "Names" only in a show that ironically purposely cast a lot of actors who had been in small Broadway roles for years, but never the leads, until now. There are also some incredible vocal numbers that Broadway performers are trained for, and I wasn't sure that the "Names" could handle them (with the exception of Andrew Rannells, who became famous due to Broadway). I happy to say that I needn't have worried.
All of the actors cast were incredible in their respective roles, did all of the beautiful numbers justice, and brought these characters to life. Yes, it is very campy and over the top, but that's how it was originally written (and done) for Broadway. On purpose, because, campy, flashy, etc. not only makes for a magnificent feast for the eyes (and ears), but it also makes it much easier to digest what are serious issues (Inclusion, Homophobia, Bullying, etc.), without being too preachy or angry. The film is made with the lavish style and camp magic that is a Broadway Musical and embraces that, basically, it's not made to look like a dramatic film, it's meant to look as if you were watching a Broadway show. The original Broadway choreographer, Casey Nicholaw, also choreographed the screen version as well, for example.
Keegan-Michael Key actually sings a number called "We Look To You" whose lyrics literally explain the reason for a film like this. It's fun, it's moving, it will make you want to sing and dance along, and hopefully appreciate Broadway and Musicals more, and perhaps Celebrate people, and all of their differences as well. Meryl Streep is amazing, as are everyone in the cast. I'm seeing a lot of negativity towards James Corden in reviews, but to his credit, he plays Barry exactly as he should, and he is really heartwarming in what I feel is one of his best performances ever.
Watch this film if you love musicals, dancing, big production numbers, optimistic stories with heart and tales of love, acceptance and redemption. I've already watched this film twice, and I will definitely own a copy when it becomes available. I highly recommend this film, especially in these times, as the perfect way to forget your troubles and be really entertained. Trust me, you'll come out of it singing the songs afterwards and just feel happier because of it.