• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Film
  • DVD
  • Editorial
  • About ScreenFish

ScreenFish

where faith and film are intertwined

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Home
  • Reviews
  • Interviews
  • News
  • OtherFish
  • Podcast
  • Give

Emily Blunt

Jungle Cruise: Watch Your Step

July 30, 2021 by J. Alan Sharrer Leave a Comment

“Over there are the remains of my last crew. You can tell they had a good time–look; they are still smiling!  Those smiles are just plastered right on their faces.”

One of the more unique rides at Disney World and Disneyland involves a boat cruise. No, I’m not talking about the Liberty Belle that circles Tom Sawyer Island. Instead, the Jungle Cruise is a fast-paced tour of a tropical river, complete with waterfalls, headhunters, hippos, and a wise-cracking tour guide with a penchant for perfectly horrible puns. The ride is fun, but is the newest film from Disney (of the same name) just as enjoyable?

Jungle Cruise certainly has its moments but leaves too much of the ride’s fun out at the expense of a journey that feels forced in the second half of the film. Nevertheless, there are some good reminders of heroism, trust, and sacrifice we all would be better off talking a look at.

Since I’ve already provided most of the film’s plot, it might be wise to introduce the main cadre of characters. MacGregor and Lily Houghton (Jack Whitehall and Emily Blunt) are a brother/sister pair who live in England during WWI and are trying to seek funding for an expedition to the Amazon. Their goal is to find the Tree of the Moon and recover some petals from it for healing. (Seriously, haven’t we seen and heard this plot device before?) He shares the proposal; she uses her expert cunning to acquire an arrowhead meant for Prince Joachim (Jesse Plemons) that may prove to be useful. She also knows how to pick locks, and it opens a lot of doors for her.

Upon their arrival at Porto Velho in Brazil, they meet Frank (Dwayne Johnson), a wisecracking tour guide who, well, cracks constant jokes and seems to have the entire jungle working to make his rapid-fire puns work to the delight (and disdain) of tourists. He needs funds to keep his boat going or Nilo (Paul Giamatti) will take it.

Enter Lily and MacGregor. She’s an adverturer; he’s like Princess Vespa in Spaceballs, complete with tons of luggage. Frank soon learns he’s met his match in Lily (other than the fact that she’s deathly afraid of water). The journey leads to numerous confrontations with said headhunters and Prince Joachim, who makes the journey to the Amazon in a submarine (too bad it went under).

Once Frank and crew nearly go over a waterfall, the story switches from fun-loving and joking to high-stakes adventure. To accomplish this Herculean task, Frank reveals some unique aspects about himself. Lily has to get over her fear of water (and receives a few kisses from Frank in an odd manner). The tree appears, but not before Prince Joachim shows up (along with various forms of Aguirre [Edgar Ramirez]–some of which are rather creepy). The tree blooms. You can probably guess what happens next.

Does the embellishment of a 20-minute ride into a 2-hour film work? I think that if the jokes were kept at a steady stream and the adventure was more unique, it would be quite good. Jungle Cruise is not a bad film, but certain things caused my mind to wander from the plot. For example, the Disney opening has a Metallica song playing underneath it. There’s a reason for it, but I’m not sure “Nothing Else Matters” quite fits. In addition, there’s a strange mishmash of films ranging from the Indiana Jones series, The Mummy, the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and even Beauty and the Beast (note the color of the tree petals and how the conflict is resolved in the end). It’s wacky and unrealistic, but there’s some fun—enough to justify the film’s run time of two hours.

Director Jaume Collet-Serra found two fantastic leads in Johnson and Blunt, and their chemistry is evident from the moment they lay eyes on each other. Whitehall is on the screen a good amount as well but comes off as wooden and uninspired. Prince Joachim is laughable for the wrong reasons. Outside of that, the main character of the film is the CGI. The river sequences are absolutely gorges in some places, a bit wonky in others (the waterfall sequence), and creepy when Aguirre shows up (hope you like snakes—they have a bit of a hissy fit).

I think it’s important to note that there are a number of specific themes that can be detected in Jungle Cruise—heroism, trust, and sacrifice being three of them. Another, more subtle, aspect to the film comes in the form of standing alongside those one cares about and loves. Although MacGregor and Lily are brother/sister, there’s a telling line about halfway through the movie. When Frank asks MacGregor why he is so close to Lily, he replies that she “stood by me, and for that, I would’ve followed her into a volcano.” It does have a Samwise Gamgee/Frodo feel to it, but that’s one aspect of true friendship.

The writer John Donne noted in Meditation 17 that “No man is an island, entire of itself.” (You can also translate that as “toucan do better than one can.”) It has been difficult for many people during the worldwide pandemic when physical distancing has been the norm. To that end, many have resorted to life in front of a computer, using programs like Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams to create virtual community. Over time, however, the sense of unity has drifted further and further away from view, bringing some to a breaking point. My prayer is that we would take the time to communicate intentionally to those we love (even bringing back what worked a generation ago—a simple phone call) and growing those relationships. At some point in the near future, we will be able to stand by those people in real time, reminding them that friends are there in times of need (see Proverbs 18:24).

Until then, we can agree that puns are good things, the Rock and Emily Blunt need to be in more films together, and it’s okay to be there for those dear to us. If it takes Jungle Cruise to remind us, that’s perfectly fine.

Also remember that, if you feel your feet getting wet as you leave the boat, you’ve probably gone out the wrong side.

Jungle Cruise can be streamed on Disney+ or viewed at your local theater (depending on area).

Filed Under: Disney+, Disney+, Featured, Film, Reviews Tagged With: Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, Jungle Cruise, Paul Giamatti, The Rock

Jungle Cruise: One Fun Ride

July 30, 2021 by Jason Thai Leave a Comment

Even though it’s a blockbuster based on a theme park ride that’s filled with bad puns, Jungle Cruise is one insane trip.

Jungle Cruise stars Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as skipper Frank Wolff and Emily Blunt as Dr. Lily Houghton. Set in 1916, at the height of WWI, Lily Houghton (Emily Blunt) is a British doctor who reluctantly teams up with Frank, an expert tour guide of the Amazon. Setting sail on his rickety old boat, they go on a jungle adventure to acquire the petals of a magical tree that will change modern medicine and, potentially, even end the war. However, hot on their heels is the contemptable Prince Joachim (Jesse Plemons), a German aristocrat determine to use the petal for his own gain. 

In many ways, Cruise feels like a Marvel movie. Filled with witty and charming banter that’s just plain fun, the dialogue pops like the best MCU moments. In fact, there are moments when hearing The Rock banter with Blunt feels like those conversations between Iron Man and Captain America. The chemistry these two have is amazing and just feels so natural. What’ s more, action scenes are also well choreographed and take advantage of the beautiful amazon setting, including all creatures and supernatural elements that are involved. The over-arching supernatural/magical backstory is much more complex than initially expected which was a very pleasant surprise, especially considering it’s based on a fun little ride for vacationers.  

Personally, I loved that they were able to take an iconic Disney ride and make it into an intense action movie. As the tour guide of the ride, Frank even shares the same bad puns that you’d hear from the famed tour guides on the Jungle Cruise at Disney World. Featuring all the dangers of the island such as the natives and wildlife, Cruise really makes you feel you’re back in Florida on the ride itself (except, in a strange way, it feels even more immersive watching the movie.)  

With an eye on inclusion, Jungle Cruise seems to be one of Disney’s major steps toward “wokeness.” As a woman in the early 20th Century, Dr. Houghton gets absolutely no respect from the scientific community. In addition, her brother McGregor (Jack Whitehall), one of the very few rare gay characters in Disney’s movies, is also ostracized simply for his sexuality., Whereas the action genre is traditionally dominated by straight males, Jungle Cruise utilizes these two characters in a way where that highlights who they were and views them as equal

At the same time, Frank’s character arc is also closely tied with this. Without giving any spoilers, Frank has witnessed the absolute worst of people throughout his life. Broken by the pain of his past, he would rather die than spend another minute alive. However, Lily takes an alternative view. Instead of giving up, Lily sees the horror of this world but actively wants to change it for the better. Despite the frustrations that she sees and has experienced at the hands of a male-dominated society, Lily is committed to fighting for a new future, giving the film a more hopeful edge.  

Led by the dynamic duo of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Emily Blunt, Jungle Cruise has everything you want and more from a Disney action movie. Funny and energetic, the film has an adventurous spirit that should entertain all ages. In short, Jungle Cruise is a fun ride.

Jungle Cruise is available in theatres and on Disney+ Premiere Access on July 30th, 2021.

Filed Under: Featured, Film, Premieres, Reviews Tagged With: Disney, Disney World, Disney+, Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, Jack Whitehall, Jesse Plemons, Jungle Cruise

Wild Mountain Thyme: Irish Wonder and Identity

February 2, 2021 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

Set in the foothills of Ireland, Wild Mountain Thyme tells the story of Rosemary Muldoon (Emily Blunt), a strong-willed farmer who yearns to win the heart of her emotionally-stunted neighbour, Anthony Reilly (Jamie Dornan). Struggling to commit to his role in the family farm, Anthony also struggles to take a risk with his feelings for his beautiful neighbour. When his father (Christopher Walken) loses confidence in his son’s ability to take care of their land, he invites his American nephew Adam (Jon Hamm) to purchase their family farm. However, upon meeting Rosemary, Adam realizes that pursuing a romance with her may be an even better reason to take up residence in the Irish countryside. Torn between the love she has in front of her and the one that she wants but can’t have, Rosemary must ask herself what is most important to her and where she sees her future.

Written and directed by John Patrick Shanley (Moonstruck), Wild Mountain Thyme is a sweeping romantic comedy that works well for the most part, even if it falls short near the end. Based on his play Outside Mullingar, Shanley portrays Ireland as a land embedded in rich mythology and charming characters. Bathing the screen with lush, green landscapes, Thyme is a visual treat that leans into the allure of the Irish countryside and its quirky residents. (Fans of other Irish gems such as Waking Ned Devine may appreciate the characters in particular.) Stars Dornan, Blunt and Hamm have wonderful chemistry together, carrying the film on their shoulders much of the time. (In fact, this is especially true of Dornan and Blunt, who simmer together onscreen in several key scenes.)

Admittedly, the film is certainly far from perfect. While Blunt’s Irish accent works, some of the cast sound almost non-sensical (Sorry, Mr. Walken.) and even distract from the film itself. What’s more, many of the relationship questions feel answered so early in the film that there’s very little left to discover by the film’s finale. Even so, these issues are decidedly minor quibbles that do not take away from the film’s sweeping narrative. (Well, maybe Walken’s accent.)

What will likely be discussed at length is the film’s ‘twist ending’ (which won’t be spoiled here.) Bound to be controversial, Anthony’s confession at the end of the film seems so wild that, if true, there’s little question that this particular reveal may be the most bizarre of the year. (In 2020, that’s saying something…) However, what many will forget is the film’s overall emphasis on whimsy and mythological storytelling. While Anthony’s revelations would make no sense in a more grounded reality, Thyme is never meant to be so. In a world where the dead can return and Rosemary considers herself to be a swan, the finale still manages to work within the context of the film and its culture.

In many ways, Thyme is a film about discovering who you are. Although they live in a world that feels settled and comfortable in its ways, these characters are all in periods of transition. Anthony seems unconvinced of his role at the farm once his father passes. Adam is told that he’s not a farmer, even if he wants to own a farm. Even Rosemary, who seems the most self-aware of them all, seems uncertain as to whether or not she should remain on her land or leave for the grand adventure of New York City. Interestingly though, rather than leaning into the more traditional theme of ‘finding one’s self’, Shanley’s script highlights the fact that such self-inquest is often unreliable. (“Everyone thinks they’re something they’re not,” Rosemary cautions.)  In this way, Thyme is unique in its perspective by pointing to our peers and family as the ones who truly know us for who we are. For Shanley, identity is not merely something we ‘know’, it’s something that we earn based on our interactions and relationships with the people in our lives.

Wild-M-T-00312.tif

Flawed but sweet, Wild Mountain Thyme has enough charm and wit to validate a trip to the cinematic countryside. Carried by strong performances from its key stars, Shanley writes a love letter to his home country that can charm in its quirkiness. (Just note that you might need some subtitles along the way.

To hear our conversation with director John Patrick Shanley, click here.

Wild Mountain Thyme is available in select theatres and PVOD on Tuesday, December 22nd, 2020.

Filed Under: Featured, Film, Reviews Tagged With: Christopher Walken, Emily Blunt, Ireland, Jamie Dornan, John Patrick Shanley, Jon Hamm, Wild Mountain Thyme

5.09 Is MARY POPPINS RETURNS Practically Perfect?

January 20, 2019 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

http://screenfish.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/5.09-Mary-Poppins-Returns.mp3

After 60 years, Mary Poppins Returns! With Emily Blunt stepping into the legacy (and Oscar-winning) legacy of Julie Andrews, Poppins automatically has massive expectations to live up to the charm of the original Disney classic. But, is the result practically perfect? Or does the sequel ‘go fly a kite’? In a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious conversation, I’m joined by Seeing and Believing co-host, Kevin McLenithan to discuss whether or not this film ’steps in time’ to the original, power of perspective, and—in a special segment—our Top 3 Movie Moments of 2018.

You can also stream the episode above on podomatic, SoundCloud or on Spotify! Or, you can download the ep on Apple Podcasts, Google Play or more!

5.09 Mary Poppins Returns

Want to continue to conversation at home?  Click the link below to download ‘Fishing for More’ — some small group questions for you to bring to those in your area.

Thanks Kevin for joining us!

Filed Under: Film, Podcast Tagged With: Angela Lansbury, Avengers: Infinity War, Ben Whishaw, Best of, Bohemian Rhapsody, Colin Firth, Dick Van Dyke, Disney, Eighth Grade, Emily Blunt, Emily Mortimer, Infinity War, Into the Spiderverse, Julie Andrews, Julie Walters, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mary Poppins, Mary Poppins Returns, Meryl Streep, Miles Morales, musical, Oscars, Rami Malek, remake, spider-man, Thanos, Top Ten, Widows, Won't You Be My Neighbor?

4.16 Speaking in Silence in A QUIET PLACE

May 6, 2018 by Steve Norton 2 Comments

If they hear you, they hunt you.

http://screenfish.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/4.16-A-Quiet-Place.mp3

After an alien invasion leads to the eradication of most of the human race, the survivors must live in a world of silence in order to stay alive. Directed by John Krasinski, A QUIET PLACE took the box office by storm through it’s intense storytelling and heart-felt emphasis on love for your family. This week, Steve is joined by directors Paul Muzzin and Matthew Cimone (CHASING ATLANTIS) to talk about the power of communication and the importance of listening.

Want to continue to conversation at home?  Click the link below to download ‘Fishing for More’ — some small group questions for you to bring to those in your area.

4.16 A Quiet Place

Thanks Paul and Matt for joining us!

Filed Under: Film, Podcast Tagged With: A Quiet Place, Alien, Emily Blunt, horror, John Krasinski, M. Night Shyamalan, SciFi

The Girl on the Train: The Lies We’re Told & The Lies We Tell Ourselves

January 17, 2017 by Jacob Sahms Leave a Comment

To be clear, I had not read Paula Hawkins’ thriller before seeing the stories of three suburban women unfold onscreen in Tate Taylor’s (The Help, Get on Up) cinematic version of The Girl on the Train. Like Gone Girl, I had the sense early that the gradient versions of ‘good’ and ‘evil’ would filter differently as the events played out in front of me, but even greater themes were at work here. As I unpacked the story of Rachel Watson (Blunt) and her voyeuristic view from the passenger train, I realized that much more was at stake here than a simple thriller.

For those who haven’t heard the story, let me simply say that it revolves around Watson. She’s the ex-wife of Tom (Justin Theroux) and still bears the marks of his affair with his new wife, Anna (Rebecca  Ferguson). But she comforts herself by imagining the perfect life of Megan Hipwell (Haley Bennett) and her husband, Scott (Luke Evans), who are next-door neighbors of Tom’s. This is unfortunately complicated when Tom and Anna hire Megan to be their nanny. All of this is watched by Rachel as she commutes to the city each day.

We recognize that all is not right in the world of Anna – she wants to be a mother but lacks the necessary mindset to put her child above herself. We see that Megan wants more for her life, but plays the part that each of the men in her life want from her, whether it’s subservient or aggressive. We watch Rachel’s life revolve around drinking herself into oblivion, both in the present and in the past, presented in flashbacks. All of these women are flawed, but the way that the women are presented pales in comparison to the way that we’ll see the men by the end of the film.

But as the film unravels, mirroring Rachel’s own mental unravelling, we see that we can’t necessarily believe what we see, or hear, or understand about the narrative in front of us. This is a net result of the way that alcohol clouds Rachel’s judgment and memory; in fact, her alcoholism carries with it blackouts that require her to rely on others to know what happened to her or what she did herself. (This seems to be the kind of warning narrative we might show to those wondering how alcohol is harmful, but the impact of the drinking is overshadowed.)

The other impact on the narrative and our understanding of truth is the sheer amount of lying that each of the people in the story participate in. With each other, to others. While Rachel is our protagonist (we think), she begins to involve herself in the lives of the other major characters and lying about her whereabouts, motivations, and perceptions. Even while she appears to be aimed at doing something good, she continues to lie, spinning a spirit of deception that extends throughout most of the film.

But when the crime that serves as the catalyst occurs, one person’s actions are ended, even as the deception continues. At this point, the film switches from psychoanalyzing Rachel to exploring the mystery of the crime. And honestly, the switch led to a mindset that seemed motivated in a battle of the sexes.

While none of these characters end up being Noble Peace Prize winners, the women lie and the men are violent, manipulating, even psychopathic. Ultimately, Rachel’s resolution of the situation comes about when she resorts to engaging in ‘male’ behavior as depicted in the film; the violence she must resort to is the way we’ve been shone that healing must happen. It is not enough for to take back her life and kick addiction to the curb; she must dive into the masculine world and invoke violence as her right.

Ultimately, I found The Girl on the Train entertaining and provocative. But I found myself disturbed by the fact that the plays for sexuality by the women, manipulating and powerful, were given the nod for acceptable behavior, and the men’s verbal and physical violence was evil. I would say that both genders did violence to each other, through manipulation physically, emotionally, and mentally, breaking down a world of love and trust that should occur in marriage and loving relationships. The downfall was widespread – and even the liberating factor proves that the cycle is broken by more of the same.

Special features include deleted and extended scenes, a look at The Women behind The Girl, “On Board the Train,” and a feature-length commentary by director Tate Taylor. Now available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD. 

Filed Under: DVD, Featured, Film, Reviews, SmallFish Tagged With: allison janney, Edgar Ramirez, Emily Blunt, Haley Bennett, Justin Theroux, lisa kudrow, luke evans, Paula Hawkins, Rebecca Ferguson

3.3 Who is THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN?

October 23, 2016 by Steve Norton 2 Comments

girl-on-the-train-movie-hero

http://screenfish.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/3.3-Girl-on-a-Train.mp3

This week, the Norton boys (Jason and Steve) punch their ticket with THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN. How do we define who we are? Does the ‘perfect relationship’ really exist? Can Steve tell the difference between methods of transportation? All this and more, only on ScreenFish.

Want to continue to conversation at home?  Click the link below to download ‘Fishing for More’ — some small group questions for you to bring to those in your area.

3-3-girl-on-a-train

A special thanks to our Screamfish writer, Jason Norton for joining us!

9ccca989-4375-4f2c-af6b-736f9309dd20

Filed Under: Film, Podcast, Reviews Tagged With: book, Emily Blunt, Faith, film, Gone Girl, identity, Justin Theroux, marriage, parenting, The Girl on the Train, thriller

The Huntsman’s Nicolas-Troyan on Cooking, Charlize Theron, & Highlander

August 16, 2016 by Jacob Sahms Leave a Comment

cedricCedric Nicolas Troyan, who was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects on Snow White & the Huntsman, directed The Huntsman: Winter’s War out now on Digital HD (and on Blu-ray on August 23). After directing Chris Hemsworth, Jessica Chastain, Emily Blunt, and Charlize Theron in his debut, Troyan shared his thoughts on conveying strong visuals, and the challenges of showing audiences something new.

As a first-time director, Troyan found himself leading a group of A-listers into a new enterprise, but after initial jitters, Troyan said he was unfazed. “When you do visual effects, you’re there from inception, working beside the director. It’s a grew school to learn from them. So, I figure in twenty years, I have put in my share of set time,” the director said with a chuckle. “But you ask yourself, how will you interact with the cast? Will they get what they need from me? Will I flounder around like a bowling ball? I was confident that I had the knowledge necessary. And in the end, I could see that these people were all great.”

Troyan’s confidence was potentially bolstered by (in his mind) the surprise nomination for the Academy Award, because he was so focused on creating what he needed to. “At the end of the day, you try to make something you think people will like, something cool. That’s the job: trying to take the ingredients and make something great, like cooking up a dish for your guests. But there’s no full-on recipe for success. There are just things you think are good, and you hope people will share your enthusiasm.”

While The Huntsman varies in tone from the original in the series, Troyan saw the way that the characters were influenced by a variety of backgrounds in legend and style. The director was focused on telling those stories, and making sure that it looked cool (a regular adjective for Troyan’s understanding about the way things would appear). But he admitted that a different take on an old story can be tricky.

“You have Hans Christian Andersen’s Snow Queen not exactly but inspired. You have the Snow Queen in Narnia or Elsa, the queen in Frozen. You’re mixing the different worlds but trying to stay in the same world as Snow White & The Huntsman.”

“It’s like most people when they wake up in the morning; they don’t stay in the same mood all day long. When you explore the world [of these fairy tales] mixed with changing emotions, it’s kind of cool. Some people like the way we presented that and some people don’t. You flavor it thinking it will fit but the important part is that you’re trying.”

cedric2Troyan’s path continues to draw him into stories (like Maleficent) where female characters show us more than we had seen before. It’s clearly of interest to Troyan as he creates these ‘meals’ for us to enjoy, and he warmed to the subject, especially when it came to Theron.

“I’m definitely more interested in female characters in my life. I tend to sway toward those females. It’s not that male characters aren’t interesting but I think there’s more variation in female characters. There’s a broader spectrum. We need to hear those different voices.”

When the subject of the hyper-visual Mad Max: Fury Road was broached, Troyan admitted that he hadn’t seen it in theaters because he was filming. “I told Charlize I was sorry. I wasn’t sure I’d like it because I’m not a huge Mad Max fan. But because of Charlize I went to see it. As soon as I got home, I emailed her that I absolutely loved it – especially her portrayal of Furiosa. It was just so rock’n’roll! The most rock’n’roll thing I’ve seen in a long time.”

As our time drew to a close, I had to ask: what could Troyan tell us about the Highlander remake that has been rumored about for the last few years? Troyan laughed, and measured his response. “Highlander was always supposed to be my first film, never my second. Now that’s my first has already been done, I just can’t say too much.”

Ah, the heart of a fan. We must wait to see what Troyan is cooking, and then dig in. Each meal won’t be for everyone, but this chef is cooking a buffet of visual and storytelling delight.

Filed Under: DVD, Featured, Film, Interviews Tagged With: Angelina Jolie, Cedric Nicolas-Troyan, Charlize Theron, Emily Blunt, Fury Road, Highlander, Jessica Chastain, Mad max, Maleficent

TIFF Hits: Shooting Stars

September 15, 2015 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

 

IMG_1216     IMG_1137     IMG_1219

At ScreenFish, we’re very conscious of those moments where faith and film collide… but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun as well!  Here are some exclusive shots of the celebs around the city as the Toronto International Film Festival enters it’s second half.  Pics will be updated as new sightings occur…

Black Mass premiere:

Johnny Depp

IMG_1140     IMG_1150     IMG_1164

Joel Edgerton

IMG_1159      IMG_1158

Peter Sarsgaard

IMG_1040     IMG_1044

Kevin Bacon

IMG_1135     IMG_1136

John Morris                                           Dakota Johnson

IMG_1072     IMG_1059     IMG_1179

Freeheld Premiere:  Michael Shannon, Ellen Page, Julianne Moore, dir. Peter Sollett

IMG_0938 (1)

Sicario Premiere:  Benicio Del Toro, Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, dir. Denis Villeneuve

IMG_0869

Forsaken Premiere: Donald Sutherland, Keifer Sutherland, d. Jon Cassar (24)

IMG_1246 IMG_1247 IMG_1249

Team from Beast:  Chad McKinney, dir. Tom and Sam McKeith, Garret Dillahunt

IMG_1191

The Man Who Knew Infinity:  Jeremy Irons; Dev Patel; Devika Bhise

IMG_1265     IMG_1267     IMG_1280

 

Other Celebs:

Penelope Cruz

IMG_1208     IMG_1213

Sarah Silverman

IMG_1230     IMG_1225

Susan Sarandon                                  Rachel McAdams

IMG_0957     IMG_0971

Nick Robinson

IMG_0989     IMG_0994

Rob Reiner                                           Carey Elwes                                         Michael Moore

IMG_1006     IMG_1025     IMG_0857

 

Filed Under: Current Events, Film, News, TIFF Tagged With: 24, Benicio Del Toro, Black Mass, Carey Elwes, Chad McKinney, Dakota Johnson, Denis Villeneuve, Donald Sutherland, Ellen Page, Emily Blunt, Forsaken, Freeheld, Garret Dillahunt, Joel Edgerton, John Morris, Johnny Depp, Jon Cassar, Josh Brolin, Julianne Moore, Keifer Sutherland, Kevin Bacon, Michael Moore, Michael Shannon, Nick Robinson, Penelope Cruz, Peter Sarsgaard, Peter Sollett, Rachel McAdams, Rob Reiner, Sam McKeith, Sarah Silverman, Susan Sarandon, Tom McKeith, Toronto International Film Festival

TIFF Hits: SICARIO

September 12, 2015 by Steve Norton 1 Comment

sicarioBelieve the hype.

Since it’s debut at Cannes several months ago, Canadian filmmaker Denis Villeneuve’s latest film, Sicario, has garnered a great deal of buzz.  If you haven’t heard of Villeneuve, you will.  He’s quickly becoming one of Hollywood’s brightest directors, having broken through with intense dramas like Prisoners and Enemy.  (He’s also been chosen to direct the sequel to Blade Runner as well.) With Sicario, he continues his hot streak, telling a tightly woven narrative that literally has you gripped from beginning to end.  What’s more, the film is shot by cinetamagraphy legend, Roger ‘Someone Please Give This Guy an Oscar’ Deakins who beautifully stalks the action with the camera.

Sicario tells the story of Kate Macer (Emily Blunt), a DEA agent who is brought in to support a team of special ops led by Josh Brolin as they attempt to take on Mexican drug lords.  Blunt describes Kate as “the audience’s surrogate” as we participate in this unfolding drama through her own inexperienced eye.  The story is gritty, honest and seeks to reveal a lifestyle and world that is completely foreign to most of us.  Brolin addresses this issue when he says “this situation is so close to home.  We all talk about ISIS but the [problems] are right here.  It’s our neighbor.”

Most interestingly is the ethical balance that plays out between the film’s lead characters.  Blunt feels that Kate is “a moral character in an amoral world” as she attempts to come to grips with the travesties around her. However, this leads very quickly into conversation about whether or not it’s truly possible to do what is right in the face of insurmountable violence and evil.

Sicario is a riveting drama that doesn’t make that question easy to answer.

But it’s going to make you ask.

 

Sicario (rated R for violence, language and disturbing images)

Starring Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, Benicio Del Toro

d. Denis Villeneuve

***** (out of five)

Filed Under: Current Events, Film, Interviews, News, Reviews, TIFF Tagged With: Benicio Del Toro, Blade Runner, Denis Villeneuve, Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, Prisoners, TIFF

Primary Sidebar

THE SF NEWS

Get a special look, just for you.

sf podcast

Hot Off the Press

  • Arctic: Our Frozen World – Baby, It’s Cold Outside
  • Dear Edward: Sitting in Sadness, but Never Alone
  • 80 for Brady: Silly & Sweet and an Absolute Score
  • Erin’s Guide to Kissing Girls: Fresh Take, Same Quest
  • Knock at the Cabin: Knocking on Heaven’s Door
Find tickets and showtimes on Fandango.

where faith and film are intertwined

film and television carry stories which remind us of the stories God has woven since the beginning of time. come with us on a journey to see where faith and film are intertwined.

Footer

ScreenFish Articles

Arctic: Our Frozen World – Baby, It’s Cold Outside

Dear Edward: Sitting in Sadness, but Never Alone

  • About ScreenFish
  • Privacy Policy

© 2023 · ScreenFish.net · Built by Aaron Lee

 

Loading Comments...