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CHICAGO – “Twisters” is the kind of movie seemingly engineered to be seen on a big screen, accompanied by ear splitting sound that rattles your seat. And in that kind of environment, it’s exactly the kind of big dumb popcorn movie it sets out to be, even if it doesn’t add up to much once it’s all over.

British actress Daisy Edgar Jones dons an American accent as a storm chaser named Kate who walks away from chasing tornadoes after a twister kills most of her high school research team. But she’s lured back by the other survivor Javi (Anthony Ramos), who has new gadgets which could help them produce the first 3D models of a twister in action … which could be used to devise better warning systems and save lives.

Glen Powell earns his movie star stripes as Tyler, a rival “Tornado Wrangler.” He’s a good ol’ boy with a YouTube channel out to build a brand while chasing the storms. His fondness for flashy but pointless stunts like firing fireworks into a funnel cloud somewhat obscures the fact that he actually knows what he’s talking about.

”Twisters” is in theaters on July 19th. Featuring Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos, Brandon Perea and Maura Tierney. Screenplay by Mark L. Smith. Directed by Lee Isaac Chung. Rated “PG-13”

Continue reading for Spike Walter’s full review of “Twisters”

Twisters
Photo credit: Universal Pictures

Continue reading for Spike Walter’s full review of “Twisters”

CHICAGO – The power of performance is on unique display in “Sing Sing,” expanding in theaters this August. It’s directed/co-adapted by Greg Kwedar and features the consummate Colman Domingo. The film is set in the infamous prison, as the incarcerated become a troupe of actors, and how it changes their lives.

Divine G (Colman Domingo) is imprisoned in New York State’s Sing Sing, and finds purpose by acting in a theatre group alongside other men who are also incarcerated. Their acting coach/play director (Paul Raci) is a patient mentor, but some troupe members – like “Divine Eye” (Clarence Maclin) – are going to have a rockier path towards interpreting this variation of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”

Colman Domingo (right) and Director Greg Kwedar of ‘Sing Sing’
Photo credit: A24

The story uses actual formerly incarcerated actors alongside Domingo Colman and the other professionals, but all are equally present. The redemptive power of pretending to be something else is on display, filtered through the intense experiences of both society’s law breakers and rejected persons (including the majority as people of color). Frustrations, revelations and a calming influence follow the troupe to their stage play, where all the men in this case are merely players, in a fascinating journey.

Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com recently interviewed director/co-screenplay adapter Greg Kwedar and producer Monique Walton of “Sing Sing.” Kwedar also co-wrote and produced (with creative partner Clint Bentley, who directed) the indie fave “Jockey,” which premiered at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival in the U.S. Dramatic Competition, and was acquired by Sony Pictures Classics for theatrical release. Monique Walton previous producer credits include “Bull” (which premiered at Cannes) and the doc “Hollow Tree.” She was also honored with the 2024 Producers Award at the Film Independent Spirit Awards.

In Part One of a Podtalk with Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, director Greg Kwedar and Producer Monique Walton of “Sing Sing” …

In Part Two, reflections on Colman Domingo and “Jockey” …

Trailer, “Sing Sing” …

”Sing Sing” opens in Chicago on August 2nd, expands nationwide afterward. Featuring Colman Domingo, Paul Raci, Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin and Sean “Dino” Johnson. Screenplay adapted by Greg Kwedar and Clint Bentley. Directed by Greg Kwedar. Rated “R”

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – The power of performance is on unique display in “Sing Sing,” expanding in theaters this August. It’s directed/co-adapted by Greg Kwedar and features the consummate Colman Domingo. The film is set in the infamous prison, as the incarcerated become a troupe of actors, and how it changes their lives.

Divine G (Colman Domingo) is doing time in New York State’s Sing Sing prison, and finds purpose by acting in a theatre group alongside other men who are also incarcerated. Their acting coach/play director (Paul Raci) is a patient mentor, but some troupe members – like “Divine Eye” (Clarence Maclin) – are going to have a rockier path towards interpreting this variation of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”

Colman Domingo (left) and Clarence ‘Divine Eye’ Maclin of ‘Sing Sing’
Photo credit: A24

The story uses actual formerly incarcerated actors alongside Domingo Colman and the other professionals, but all are equally present. The redemptive power of pretending to be something else is on display, filtered through the intense experiences of both society’s law breakers and rejected persons (including the majority as people of color). Frustrations, revelations and a calming influence follow the troupe to their stage play, where all the men in this case are merely players, in a fascinating journey.

Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com recently interviewed Paul Raci, Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin and Sean “Dino” Johnson (as another incarcerated actor). Raci is a veteran character actor, nominated in 2019 for “Sound of Metal.” Maclin is portraying a variation on himself, formerly incarcerated, who went through the program depicted on screen. Johnson is a formerly incarcerated board member of RTA, the Rehabilitation Through the Arts program which puts the inmates on stage, and the Executive Director of a non-profit violence reduction initiative, the Council for Unity.

L to R: Paul Raci, ‘Divine Eye’ Maclin and ‘Dino’ Johnson of ‘Sing Sing’
Photo credit: A24

In a Podtalk with Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, Actor Paul Raci of “Sing Sing” on inspirations and Joaquin Phoenix …

Actors Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin (speaks first) and Sean “Dino” Johnson (a Philosopher King, listen to his reflections), the formerly incarcerated actors in “Sing Sing” …

Divine Eye and Dino answer an acting question …

Trailer, “Sing Sing” …

”Sing Sing” opens in Chicago on August 2nd, expands nationwide afterward. Featuring Colman Domingo, Paul Raci, Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin and Sean “Dino” Johnson. Screenplay adapted by Greg Kwedar and Clint Bentley. Directed by Greg Kwedar. Rated “R”

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – In filmmaking, the short film is usually the medium where most potential directors do their first works or present a shorter version of what they hope will become a longer film or simply that they prefer that length of story-telling. One of the short films fests that has been around Chicago for several years is the “Big Teeth Small Shorts” presentation, and the founder of Big Teeth Productions … Gregg Jaffe …will be facilitating their Summer ’24 Live Screening on Thursday, July 18th, at FACETS Cinema in Chicago’s DePaul Neighborhood. For details and tickets, click BIG TEETH.

“Big Teeth” distinguishes itself by screening only films that are five minutes or less (small shorts), including a “micro shorts” category for films 90 seconds or less. The films are in a range in the following categories … Comedy, Documentary, Horror/Thriller, Science Fiction, Animation, Drama/Romance and of course, Experimental.

’Big Teeth Small Shorts on Thursday, July 18th
Photo credit: Big Teeth Productions

Gregg Jaffe co-founded Big Teeth Productions in 2005, and the Big Teeth Small Shorts festivals began in 2019. Big Teeth Productions creates film and animation for brands, agencies and organizations, and Jaffe also is a filmmaker and director for hire.

In a Podtalk interview by Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, Gregg Jaffe talks everything Big Teeth Small Shorts …

In a Video Clip, Gregg gives the “short” pitch on Big Teeth Small Shorts Summer ’24 Fest …

“Big Teeth Small Shorts” Summer ’24 Live Screening takes place Thursday, July 18th, at FACETS Cinema – 1517 West Fullerton Avenue, Chicago. For more information on Big Teeth Productions, click here..

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – One month after John Lennon made his iconic walk across Abbey Road for that classic album cover, he got a call from Canadian promoter Johnny Brower. Would Lennon play at a Toronto rock show? The answer to that question is told in the recently released rock doc “REVIVAL69: The Concert That Rocked the World.”

REVIVAL69: The Concert That Rocked the World
Photo credit: Greenwich Entertainment

The Toronto Rock and Roll Revival (AKA Revival ’69) was held at Varsity Stadium on September 13th, 1969, and was filmed by famed rock documentarian D.A. Pennebaker. Johnny Brower was the young promoter, who had made a name for himself as THE rock concert promoter/facilitator of that era for Canada. The planned concert revival “happening” – a bill of 1950s rockers like Little Richard, Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis, even adding Jim Morrison and The Doors and a young Alice Cooper – failed to generate ticket sales. The solution was simple … get Beatle John Lennon to play. He agreed, and formed the nascent “Plastic Ono Band” with wife Yoko Ono and Eric Clapton, and the concert became history.

The story has to be true, because it was so improbable. The snap decisions made in a simpler era of results was the key to the whole event, and the mentor rockers of the 1950s was the impetus for booking Lennon and The Doors. Every element of this once in a lifetime event – including a motorcycle escort for Lennon and Co. to the show – had to happen the way it did, or the whole thing would fall apart. The documentary “REVIVAL69” is one of the greatest rock stories ever told, and in the middle of it all was Canadian impresario Johnny Brower.

Johnny Brower was just out of his teen years when he turned his dream of being in a rock band to managing and promoting rock shows. After scoring with a couple big acts in Toronto, his club The Rock Pile opened, and became a stop on the circuit of clubs in North America for legends like Led Zeppelin, The Who and Rod Stewart. After promoting a show with Chuck Berry, the idea came for a “Rock ’n Roll Revival,” and set in motion the events that take place in “REVIVAL69: The Concert That Rocked the World.”

Yoko Ono, John Lennon and Johnny Brower in ‘REVIVAL69’
Photo credit: Greenwich Entertainment

In Part One of a Podtalk with Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, Johnny Brower provides background for “REVIVAL69”…

In Part Two, great timing and a Jim Morrison limo ride (NOTE: Shep is Shep Gordon, Alice Cooper’s manager) …

In Part Three, a tense moment, the biker escort and a wild Beatle story …

In Part Four, legacy …

Trailer, “REVIVAL69: The Concert That Rocked the World” …

“REVIVAL69: The Concert That Rocked the World” is in select theaters and available for digital download on all outlets since June 28th. Featuring John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Eric Clapton, Jim Morrison, The Doors, Alice Cooper, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Brower. Written by Phyllis Ellis. Directed by Ron Chapman. Not Rated.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com audio film review for “Fly Me the Moon,” an alternative history satire about the Apollo 11 first-msn-on-the-moon mission, featuring Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum and Woody Harrelson. In theaters on July 12th.

The premise is basically a parallel universe to the actual event in 1969 as Channing Tatum is Cole Davis, the flight director for Apollo 11. When expected funding is being held up by Congress, the Nixon administration sends an uncover CIA spook named Moe (Woody Harrelson), who helps NASA to hire a hot shot Mad-Men era marketing expert named Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson) to boost the profile in the space race against the Soviet Union. This confuses Cole’s right-hand man Henry (Ray Romano) and puts pressure on the rest of the mission, including a commercial film director hired by Kelly named Lance (Jim Rash), who is given a peculiar assignment.

”Fly Me to the Moon” is in theaters July 12th. Featuring Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum, Ray Romano, Woody Harrelson, Colin Jost and Jim Rash. Screenplay by Rose Gilroy. Directed by Greg Berlanti. Rated “PG-13”

CLICK HERE for Patrick McDonald’s audio review of “Fly Me to the Moon”

Fly Me to the Moon
Photo credit: Columbia Pictures

CLICK HERE for Patrick McDonald’s audio review of “Fly Me to the Moon”

CHICAGO – Singer/songwriter Richard Knight Jr. believes that “Love is Possible,” so that is the title of his latest album. He will be performing selections from that album and more as he appears at SPACE in Evanston, Illinois, on Monday July 15th, along with Gerald Dowd. For tickets and details, click SPACE.

Richard Knight Jr. is a Chicago legend, as performer, writer, filmmaker, activist and film programmer for the REELING LGBTQ+ festival. He has performed in many capacities, but is most well-known for his local Emmy-winning character Dick O’Day, in his appearances on the Chicago PBS show “Wild Chicago” from 1996-2002 and other showcases. As a writer, he wrote a memoir in 2023 entitled “How Do I Get Outside?!: My Life Aboard the World’s Most Luxurious Cruise Ship” (Richard NOTE: He is currently shopping the book and looking for representation) about his exploits as a cocktail piano player on board, and was a prominent film critic for the Windy City Times. In 2012, he produced, wrote and co-directed a queer version of “A Christmas Carol” entitled “Scrooge & Marley.”

Richard Knight Jr. (right, and Gerald Dowd) at SPACE
Photo credit: EvanstonSpaceMusic.com

Richard will be appearing at SPACE with Gerald Dowd, a Boston-raised/Chicago-braised drummer/singer/songwriter, who has been described as “the hardest working drummer in Chicago,” in the midst of playing on over 100 albums, and averaging 150 live dates a year around the world.

In a Podtalk interview by Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, singer/songwriter Richard Knight Jr. talks his upcoming gig at SPACE …

In a Video Clip, Richard makes the pitch …

Richard Knight Jr. and Gerald Dowd will perform July 15th, 2024, at SPACE, 1245 Chicago Avenue in Evanston, Illinois. For Richard’s album “Love is Possible,” click here. For his Bandcamp site, click here and for his overall music website, click here.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – Writer/director Brittani Ward is bringing her made-in-Chicagoland feature, “Single Car Crashes” back home to the Gene Siskel Film Center for a special screening run on July 12th-14th & 16th, 2024, after the festival circuit with Cinequest (New Vision Award) and the Midwest Film Fest. For tickets and details, click SCC SISKEL.

Ten years after a devastating car crash took his best friend Zach’s life, Sean (Trevor Morgan), still lives small town where he grew up, struggling with his survivor’s guilt. When Zach’s sister Kendall (Lindsey Morgan) – who also was Sean’s first love – returns to town to marry someone else, Sean is forced to confront his failure to launch and the impact it’s having not only on his own stunted life, but on his now nine-year-old son.

’Single Car Crashes’ at Chicago’s Gene Siskel Film Center
Photo credit: five two one films

Writer/director Brittani Ward of “Single Car Crashes” has built an impressive career, working on projects of every size. Extensive casting associate work under Emmy-award winners (Barbara Fiorentino, Amber Horn, Danielle Aufiero, Laray Mayfield, and Julie Schubert) includes one season of every Marvel/Netflix series, “50 Shades of Gray Darker” and “Freed,” as well as “Death Note,” two Jason Statham-led features and several television pilots and series.

In 2022, she partnered up with Angie Gaffney to produce not only “Single Car Crashes,” but also “Adult Children” and “Desire Lines” (a documentary/narrative-hybrid feature). “Single Car Crashes” was honored with the New Vision Award at its World Premiere during the Cinequest Film Festival in San Jose, California, and a road show trip to Milwaukee for the Midwest Film Festival.

In a Podtalk interview by Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, writer/director Brittani Ward talks about “Single Car Crashes” …

In a Video Clip, Brittani Ward on the Gene Siskel Center Screenings …

“Single Car Crashes” screens at the Gene Siskel Film Center – 164 North State Street, Chicago – on July 12-14 & 16, 2024. Featuring Trevor Morgan, Lindsey Morgan, Paulina Olszynski, Cruz Gonzalez-Cadel, Chris Lee, Billy Dec and Billy Zane. Written and directed by Brittani Ward. Not Rated.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – It’s been an exciting year so far for the gem of film exhibition, FACETS Cinema in Chicago’s DePaul Neighborhood. And spearheading that excitement is Executive Director Karen Cardarelli, who began in that position in the pandemic year of 2020 and has shepherded FACET’s growth and new programming, in addition to becoming a leader in Chicago’s film scene.

Karen Caradelli connected to FACETS through her role as the co-founder of Emerald City Theatre in 1996, a theater that focused on developing the stage for children, including an outreach to Chicago Public School students. In her tenure so far, she has guided FACETS through the crucial period of the pandemic challenges, and has emerged in progressing both the physical film theater space on Fullerton Avenue in Chicago – which was founded in 1975 by the late iconic film scholar Milos Stehlik – and the cinema community in the Windy City.

Karen Cardarelli, Executive Director of FACETS
Photo credit: FACETS.org

As a leader, Karen and FACETS are involved currently in launching the CHICAGO ALLIANCE OF FILM FESTIVALS (CAFF). The Alliance seeks to aid Chicago-area film festivals through sector building efforts focused on expanding audience, resources and expertise. The website association with CAFF just launched last month, for a full report click CHICAGO SCREENS.

Upcoming at FACETS are (click links) ANIME CLUB PRESENTS, BIG TEETH SMALL SHORTS FEST, SPEAKEASY CINEMA and the opportunity as always to BECOME A MEMBER.

In a Podtalk with Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, FACETS Executive Director Karen Cadarelli talks what’s happening now …

For more information regarding FACETS, click Facets.org. For information regarding the Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals, click CAFF. For a direct link to CAFF’s Chicago Screens website, click ChicagoScreens.org.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – Growth from a young and rising actor is defined by KiKi Layne. After getting her big break as Tish in “If Beale Street Could Talk” from 2018, she has build her resume in both independent (“Native Son”) and tentpole (“Coming 2 America”) films, and showcases her music talent as the title character in “Dandelion,” which opens Friday, July 12th.

Dandelion (KiKi Layne) is a struggling Cincinnati singer-songwriter in a downward spiral, including dead end gigs and a mother who needs caregiving. When she takes a last-ditch-effort gig at a motorcycle rally in South Dakota she meets Casey (Thomas Doherty), a guitarist who walked away from his dream long ago. As Dandelion joins Casey’s nomadic group of struggling musicians, the kindred spirits make music together and strike up a whirlwind romance.

The film is a passionate meditation on young love and the sensitive artist trying to interpret it. The love is as much about the title character’s unrelenting ardor toward music as coupling with misplaced emotions. The story is deliberate and beautifully filmed, and reaches its destinations through that defiant, unquenchable need to create. Layne is a standout as she negotiates all the varied emotions and music craft along the journey, and director Nicole Riegel (“Holler”) creates a cinematic palette of contemplative scenery and reflective character studies. Just dandy.

KiKi Layne in ‘Dandelion’
Photo credit: IFC Films

KiKi Layne began her career in Chicago after graduating from the Theatre School at DePaul University with a role on “Chicago Med.” Filmmaker Barry Jenkins cast her in “If Beale Street Could Talk” in 2018, and she has since appeared in “Native Son” (2019), “The Old Guard” (2020) and “Don’t Worry Darling” (2022). “Dandelion” is her first lead role.

In a Podtalk with Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, KiKi Layne talks about “Dandelion” and her career so far …

Trailer, “Dandelion” …

For the Red Carpet photos of KiKi Layne by Joe Arce of HollywoodChicago.com at the Chicago Critics Film Festival, CLICK HERE.

For a Podcast discussion of Dandelion from Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com on Ian Simmon’s KICKING THE SEAT YouTube channel, CLICK HERE.

”Dandelion” is in theaters on July 12th. Featuring KiKi Layne, Thomas Doherty, Melanie Nicholls-King and Grace Kaiser. Written and directed by Nicole Riegel. Rated “R”

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – Right before the historic Sundance X Chicago summit a new website was launched, two years in the making, ChicagoScreens.org. The site is the first ever one-stop destination spotlighting Chicago area film festivals (with an emphasis on independents) and film series. The site is the brainchild of the recently formed Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals (CAFF).

This new website spotlights nearly 40 film festivals in the region covering a wide scope of independent film from local to international, from culturally specific to social and environmental focus. Features, shorts, documentaries, animation – all genres can be discovered here providing discoveries for every taste. Audiences can also sign up to receive regular updates on festivals coming soon, festival news, and other event information.  

Now Online
Photo credit: ChicagoScreens.org

The Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals s the first local alliance of its kind in the country representing over 50 members supporting the film festival ecosystem of Chicago and the region. CAFF’s mission is to contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of our communities by growing Chicago’s film festival sector. CAFF is a program of FACETS Cinema, located in Chicago’s DePaul neighborhood. For a current schedule list of member film festivals and series, click CALENDAR.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – As of July 1st, 2024, Comcast has a new service package for their Xfinity internet customers. For only 10 dollars a month, they are offering NOW TV Latino, the best value in Spanish-language live TV, which includes Peacock Premium. For complete details and information on the package, click NOW TV Latino.

NOW TV Latino provides a convenient way for customers to enjoy Spanish-language entertainment and thousands of hours of movies, shows, live sports and news. NOW TV Latino can be purchased as a standalone or as a bolt-on to Xfinity’s other streaming offerings, like NOW TV, NOW StreamSaver TM, and Xfinity StreamSaver TM, which will enhance the array of English and Spanish-language programming.

NOW TV Latino
Photo credit: Xfinity.com

NOW TV Latino offers blockbuster movies, novellas, sports, and live news from 25+ live streaming and free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels. Content highlights consists of movies/TV/live news in Spanish, and at no additional cost the streaming service Peacock Premium, which includes a huge collection of hit movies, next-day access to all new shows from NBC/Bravo, plus fan-favorite library content and live events. In addition, Peacock Premium has live sports like Premier League Soccer and the upcoming Paris Olympics. And it’s all in both English and Spanish. 

What’s more, pairing NOW TV Latino with other options such as Xfinity StreamSaver, the regular NOW TV packages and NOW StreamSaver creates extra bundle savings. Click the link above or below for all the choices and packages.

NOW TV Latino is currently available for new and existing Xfinity TV/Internet customers. Go to Xfinity.com for all the details and information.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – The Steppenwolf Theatre of Chicago continues to provide different viewpoints on the American stage, and their latest “Little Bear Ridge Road” is no exception. Featuring ensemble member Laurie Metcalf, it’s the resonate story of a family at the crossroads. For tickets/details, click LITTLE BEAR.

In the outer limits of rural Idaho, the last two estranged members of the Fernsby family tree, a reclusive aunt Sarah (Laurie Metcalf) and her gay nephew Ethan (Micah Stock), reunite during the pandemic to sort the mess left behind after Ethan’s troubled father passes away. Ethan’s disconnect is made a bit more palatable through a passing relationship with James (John Drea), but the main story is about the two reluctant Fernsbys ­– separated by age and experience – as they begin to understand the joys and perils of letting someone else into your own story, even if only for a moment.

Through August 4th, 2024
Photo credit: Steppenwolf.org

Audio Theater Review of “Little Bear Ridge Road” by Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com …

”Little Bear Ridge Road” is at the Steppenwolf Theatre through August 4th, 1650 N. Halsted Street, Chicago. Featuring Laurie Metcalf, Micah Stock, John Drea and Meighan Gerachis. Written by Samuel D. Hunter. Directed by Joe Mantello. For more information on Steppenwolf Theatre, click here.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com audio film reviews for “‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” with Eddie Murphy & “Despicable Me 4 with the voice of Steve Carell, both in the fourth film in their respective series. “Cop” is streaming on Netflix since July 3rd, and “Me” is in theaters since the same date.

”Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” has Eddie Murphy back as Detroit-based Axel Foley. After destroying several city blocks with a snow plow car chase, he is taken to task by his superior Friedman (Paul Reiser). At the same time, Foley’s west coast daughter Jane (Taylour Paige) is a Defense Attorney trying to get an innocent man out of jail. But the man is marked, and suddenly her life is in danger from a cartel. Quicker than you can say Rodeo Drive, Axel is back in Beverly Hills, to experience the same fish out of water world with old pals Billy Rosewood (Judge Reinhold), Taggart (John Ashton) and Serge (Bronson Pinchot), and new partner Abbott (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and bad cop Grant (Kevin Bacon). This time, as they say, it’s personal.

In “Despicable Me 4,” villain Gru (voice of Steve Carell) and his now established family, wife Lucy (Kristen Wiig), and adopted kids Margo, Edith and Agnes, plus they’ve added baby Gru. When an old high school rival named Maxime (Will Ferrell) emerges, the Anti-Villain League informs the Gru family that they have to change their names and move to a new city. Can Gru remain anonymous, when the neighbor teen Poppy (Joey King) suspects something?

”Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” is streaming on Netflix since July 3rd. Featuring Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, Paul Reiser, Bronson Pinchot, Taylour Paige and Kevin Bacon. Screenplay by Will Beall, Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten. Directed by Mark Molloy. Rated “R”

”Despicable Me 4” is in theaters since July 3rd. Featuring the voices of Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Joey King, Will Ferrell, Sofia Vergara, Stephen Colbert and Steve Coogan. Written by Mike White and Ken Daurio. Directed by Chris Renaud and Patrick Delage. Rated “PG-13”

CLICK HERE for Patrick McDonald’s audio review of “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” & “Despicable Me 4”

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
Photo credit: Netflix

Despicable Me 4
Photo credit: Universal Pictures

CLICK HERE for Patrick McDonald’s audio review of “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” & “Despicable Me 4”

CHICAGO – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com audio film review for “MaXXXine,” the third film in writer/director Ti West’s overview of the 1970s/80s American Cinema porno film era, after “X” and “Pearl,” and featuring Mia Goth.In theaters since July 5th.

Maxine (Mia Goth) has made her way to Los Angeles after her survival from a horrific mass murder in 1979 Texas. As in Texas, she begins in L.A. as a porn actress, but is confident she can land a mainstream part in a horror franchise. Meanwhile LA LA Land is on alert as a series of “Night Stalker” murders are taking place, and two of Maxine’s closest friends are supposedly killed by the perpetrator. At the same time, a private investigator (Kevin Bacon) is about to confront Maxine with her past secrets. Can an actress make the reformation she feels she deserves?

”MaXXXine” is in theaters since July 5th. Featuring Mia Goth, Kevin Bacon, Simon Prast, Elizabeth Debicki and Chloe Farnsworth. Written and directed by Ti West. Rated “R”

CLICK HERE for Patrick McDonald’s audio review of “MaXXXine”

MaXXXine
Photo credit: A24

CLICK HERE for Patrick McDonald’s audio review of “MaXXXine”

CHICAGO – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Scott Thompson on WBGR-FM (Monroe, Wisconsin) on June 27th, reviewing new films “Daddio,” with Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn, and the A24 release “Janet Planet.” Both in theaters since June 28th.

In “Daddio,” Dakota Johnson is a woman, coming into JFK International Airport in New York City, and gets a cab with the driver man (Sean Penn). During the journey into midtown Manhattan, they start to get to know each other, and the conservation becomes observational and philosophical. When a bad accident delays their journey, several breakthroughs are made, and several undeniable truths create some discomfort. The truth does hurt, but it also can set you free.

For “Janet Planet,” Janet (Julianne Nicholson) is a hippie-ish acupuncturist in rural Massachusetts, who is a single Mom for her 11-year-old daughter Lacy (Zoe Ziegler). The film is divided into three parts depicting Janet and Lacy’s journey with three people … number one boyfriend Wayne (Will Patton), secondly friend and new boarder Regina (Sophie Oko-nedo) and finally theater artist Avi (Elias Korteas), who wants to date Janet. As the summer becomes autumn, the rise and fall of the three become the basis for a necessary renewal.

“Daddio” is in theaters since June 28th. Featuring Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn. Written and directed by Christy Hall. Rated “R.” The new release “Janet Planet” is in theaters now. Featuring Julianne Nicholson, Zoe Ziegler, Will Patton, Sophie Okonedo and Elias Koteas. Written and directed by Annie Baker. Rated “PG-13”

CLICK HERE for Patrick McDonald’s on-air review of “Daddio” and “Janet Planet.”

Daddio
Photo credit: Sony Pictures Classics

Janet Planet
Photo credit: A24

CLICK HERE for Patrick McDonald’s on-air review of “Daddio” and “Janet Planet.”

CHICAGO – The Crüe is back and touring, stopping by the 2024 Summerfest in Milwaukee on June 21st, with line-up vocalist Vince Neil, bassist Nikki Sixx, guitarist John 5 and the incomparable Tommy Lee on drums. The 85 minute set included some of their greatest songs, including “Home Sweet Home,” “Primal Scream” “Dr. Feelgood” and “Girls Girls Girls.” HollywoodChicago.com Music Editor and Photographer Jeff “Doc” Doles was there to capture the iconic band.

Mötley Crüe was formed in 1981, and has sold over 100 million albums worldwide. They have also achieved seven platinum or multi-platinum certifications, nine Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 chart (including 1989’s “Dr. Feelgood,” which was Mötley Crüe’s only studio album to reach number one), twenty-two Top 40 mainstream rock hits, and six Top 20 pop singles.

Upcoming 2024 shows include three Canadian dates, July 11th (Calgary) July 13th (Ottawa) and July 14th (Quebec City) and back in this area at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield on August 10th. Click the link below for all tour dates.

Click “Next” and “Previous” to scan through the Mötley Crüe slideshow or jump directly to individual photos with the captioned links below. All photos © Jeff Doles for HollywoodChicago.com.

1. CRÜE1: Bassist Nikki Sixx
2. CRÜE2: Guitarist John 5
3. CRÜE3: Another view of John 5.
4. CRÜE4: Vocalist Vince Neil One
5. CRÜE5: Vince Neil Two
6. CRÜE6: Vince Neil Three
7. CRÜE7: Vince Neil Four
8. CRÜE8: Another view of Nikki Sixx.
9. CRÜE9: Drummer Tommy Lee
10. CRÜE10: Tommy Lee Two
11. CRÜE11: Tommy Lee Three

For more information about Mötley Crüe (including their upcoming tour dates), click Motley.com. For more photos and coverage by HollywoodChicago.com music editor Jeff “Doc” Doles, click Jeff Doles, Music Editor.

Photography by: Jeff Doles, Music Editor
Published by: Patrick McDonald, Site Editor, HollywoodChicago.com

© 2024 HollywoodChicago.com LLC

CHICAGO – The same day that director Ti West’s “MaXXXine” – the third film in his “Maxine” series – is released, why not catch up with the story beforehand at Chicago’s FACETS with a double feature/discussions on the first two films, “X” and “Pearl,” presented by film programmer Stephanie Sack. Click TI WEST for tickets/details.

Mia Goth portrays Maxine in “X” and the title character in “Pearl.” The singularly titled “X” is the first film of the trilogy, and involves a fledging group of porn filmmakers and their cast on a Texas farm location in 1979. In “Pearl,” the setting is the same, but the year is 1918, regarding a dreamy farm girl who desires to dance and eventually be in the fledgling movie industry. The third film, “MaXXXine,” is in theaters the same day, so noble cinema buffs can catch all three.

‘Modern Horror Retro Vibe’ Presentation via Host Stephanie Sack (inset)
Photo credit: FACETS.org

Stephanie Sack is a film programmer (“La Gialloholique”) and partner in “Barge Lady Cruises,” a luxury small ship experience. Since 2008 she has taken hot yoga classes in both hemispheres, nine countries, dozens of cities, and seven languages (English, French, Italian, Spanish, Danish, Dutch, and Estonian). In her film work in Chicago, she focuses on classic and repertory cinema, with an expertise in the Italian “Giallo” genre of horror/thriller. Ms. Sack is also helping to program the upcoming (click) Chicago Horror Film Festival.

In a Podtalk with Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, Film Programmer Stephanie Sack talks about the road to “X” and “Pearl” …

Trailer, “X” …

Trailer, “Pearl” …

The Modern Horror Retro Vibe presents Ti West’s “X” and “Pearl” in a double feature at FACETS Chicago – 1517 West Fullerton Avenue – doors open at Noon on July 5th, 2024. For more info on FACETS, click here. For more info on BARGE LADY CRUISES, click here.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – What does any seasonal worker do during the summer? James Austin Johnson, Devon Walker and Andrew Dismukes of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) go on their “Summer Jobs Tour” with stand-up, characters and of course, SNL. For tickets and details click SNL SUMMER.

Summer Jobs Tour
Photo credit: TheDenTheatre.com

James Austin Johnson broke out on the show in 2021 with his on-target impression of Donald Trump. He’s originally from Nashville, and he’s also appeared in TV’s “Baskets” and “Better Call Saul,” as well as the Coen Brother’s film “Hail Caesar,” and has toured extensively as a stand-up comic.

Devon Walker joined SNL in 2022. Originally from Austin, Texas, and is also a stand-up and writer who is best known as a current cast member on Saturday Night Live. Devon’s hourlong interactive show ‘Come and Talk to Me’ will be touring the east coast this summer, and is “lowkey really good” according to audience members who have seen it.

Andrew Dismukes began at SNL as a writer in 2017, and was named a performer by producer Lorne Michaels in 2020 (story in Podtalk below). Andrew started performing stand up comedy in Austin, while studying at the University of Texas. He’s performed at the Just for Laughs Festival, the Dublin Comedy Festival, and the New York Comedy Festival, among others.

In a Podtalk with Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, James Austin Johnson, Devon Walker and Andrew Dismukes start the interview in that order …

In Part Two, James Austin Johnson …

In Part Three, Devon Walker …

In Part Four, Andrew Dismukes …

In Part Five, All Together Again for the First Time, with a return to a previous joke …

In a video clip, the “SNL 3” make the pitch for their “Summer Jobs Tour” …

The Summers Jobs Tour,” featuring SNL’s James Austin Johnson, Devon Walker and Andrew Dismukes will be at the Den Theatre, 1331 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, on July 5th and 6th, 2024. For more on the Den Theatre, click here.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

CHICAGO – What does any seasonal worker do during the summer? James Austin Johnson, Devon Walker and Andrew Dismukes of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) go on their “Summer Jobs Tour” with stand-up, characters and of course, SNL. For tickets and details SNL SUMMER.

Summer Jobs Tour
Photo credit: TheDenTheatre.com

James Austin Johnson broke out on the show in 2021 with his on-target impression of Donald Trump. He’s originally from Nashville, and he’s also appeared in TV’s “Baskets” and “Better Call Saul,” as well as the Coen Brother’s film “Hail Caesar,” and has toured extensively as a stand-up comic.

Devon Walker joined SNL in 2022. Originally from Austin, Texas, and is also a stand-up and writer who is best known as a current cast member on Saturday Night Live. Devon’s hourlong interactive show ‘Come and Talk to Me’ will be touring the east coast this summer, and is “lowkey really good” according to audience members who have seen it.

Andrew Dismukes began at SNL as a writer in 2017, and was named a performer by producer Lorne Michaels in 2020 (story in Podtalk below). Andrew started performing stand up comedy in Austin, while studying at the University of Texas. He’s performed at the Just for Laughs Festival, the Dublin Comedy Festival, and the New York Comedy Festival, among others.

In a Podtalk with Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, James Austin Johnson, Devon Walker and Andrew Dismukes start the interview in that order …

In Part Two, James Austin Johnson …

In Part Three, Devon Walker …

In Part Four, Andrew Dismukes …

In Part Five, All Together Again for the First Time, with a return to a previous joke …

In a video clip, the “SNL 3” make the pitch for their “Summer Jobs Tour” …

The Summers Jobs Tour,” featuring SNL’s James Austin Johnson, Devon Walker and Andrew Dismukes will be at the Den Theatre on July 5th and 6th, 2024. For more on the Den Theatre, click here.

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor and Film Critic/Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2024 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com