Reviews

She Said Review | The Most Important Film of the Year

PFF: ‘She Said’ is one of the most gripping films of the year and is the most important film of the year.

Published

11 months ago

October 27, 2022

We’re just a few years removed from the phenomenal The Assistant, a film that effectively tackled the #MeToo movement in Hollywood while respectfully handling its subject matter. Take that delicate handling and apply it to a film with an even bigger scale a la Bombshell and you have She Said, a wholly compelling film that should be on everyone’s awards radar. Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan kill it in their roles as investigative journalists Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor, respectively, but the former really outshines the rest. Take notice, Academy; She Said is an important film that deserves to be heard.

She Said is a biographical drama based on the 2019 book of the same name written by Kantor and Twohey. The film begins with Twohey (Mulligan) and her coverage of former-President Donald Trump’s election and all of the allegations that came along with it. Even in 2016 as the infancy of then-President Trump’s run, there was a risk to speaking out about the horrific things that have happened behind closed doors with some of the world’s most powerful figures that loomed in the background.

A still from ***She Said***. Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures.

Five months later and not much has changed. Investigative reporter Kantor (Kazan) sets her sights on Hollywood and begins investigating Harvey Weinstein (portrayed by Mike Houston) and the sexual misconduct occurring in the “City of Angels.” But the process is not nearly as smooth as can be, and the two journalists face a multitude of problems including hesitance to get on-the-record quotes, pressures to get the piece finished and confrontations with the subject himself, Weinstein.

As noted, Mulligan and Twohey are fantastic in their roles. Mulligan plays the more experienced “veteran” on this case who has seen it all and isn’t afraid to stand her ground whether it be in a local pub or to Weinstein and his crew of lawyers. I guess Mulligan really serves that role as an actor in this film, too. She’s far more experienced than Kazan, and despite the film likely showing Kazan in more frames, it’s Mulligan that leaves the lasting impression. Her scenes with Weinstein’s lawyer are particularly notable. I do hope that Mulligan can get yet another Academy Award nomination for this performance.

Not to discount Kazan, I think that she’s good at playing a journalist. Her scenes with various interview subjects show her ability to have empathy for them. The interviews with female subjects in particular are especially impressive because of the heartbreak she portrays and the tears she holds back. But Kazan especially shines in the scenes with her on-screen family.

One last acting standout is Patricia Clarkson, who plays Rebecca Corbett, the editor of our leading investigative journalists. Clarkson is in the film the least out of the three actors highlighted, but she’s sensational in any scene she’s in. While she can be stern, she also exudes warmth (if you’re on her good side) as seen in the scenes where she insists her co-workers go home on late nights. It’s a very Meryl Streep-like performance, which is very high praise but is worth considering I actually thought it was Streep until the film was over.

Above all else, She Said is a story about women who can do anything whether it be having a child, taking on an ambitious project, or speaking out for what’s right. It sounds corny, but I had chills during a number of scenes in the film and especially the final scene. It’s a powerful film that you don’t need to be a hardcore feminist to get on board with. Some horrific things happen and She Said’s rhetoric isn’t vocalized by beating you over the head. You’ll naturally root for the two journalists as the journey of their article progresses.

Earlier this month, TÁR, Todd Field’s exceptional film about the rise and fall of the world’s best composer, was released. While I like a lot of the film — particularly Cate Blanchett’s performance, Florian Hoffmeister’s cinematography and Hildur Guðnadóttir’s score — one of the ‘misses was the handling of the #MeToo storyline. It felt like Field had heard a number of variations of stories of sexual misconduct and decided to create an amalgamation of them all with his version of that story in TÁR. It’s not bad, it’s just overstuffed and contrived. She Said never had that issue. And sure, it’s based on a true story so naturally, it picks a lane, but something about it feels more legitimate and weighty than the likes of Bombshell, The Assistant (which is quite good) and yes, even TÁR.

Maybe it’s the way that the film actually portrays the horrific acts, which is by not showing them at all, that’s why the film is digestible for all. The closest we get is by taking the true crime route and playing the audio of Weinstein with one of his victims while showing footage of the hotel hallway. Even when Weinstein shows up in the film, we never see his face — an uber-smart move. Taking these measures allows the film to shine without any distraction or risk of glorifying it in any shape or form. And believe me, She Said is still a hard pill to swallow, they just found a nice balance to make such an important film watchable for the masses and being respectful.

It’s possible that the Academy Awards need to get “cooler,” but equally important is highlighting films that have something to say. For far too long, the voices like the ones seen in She Said have been silenced. Not just because of its subject matter, but because She Said needs to be recognized and my hope is that people can go see it and be informed. Sure, I knew the cliff notes of the Weinstein trial, but She Said gives a whole new perspective on it. And I’m sure that because it’s Hollywood and a film, some creative liberties were likely taken, but I trust in the fact that it’s based on a book written by Twohey and Kantor and am led to believe that the film is mostly accurate. Regardless, it’s gripping and will keep you invested regardless of your knowledge of the true events. Even just looking at it as a film, She Said is a stellar piece of filmmaking by Maria Schrader, and I think that it will make enough noise that the Academy voters won’t be able to ignore it. See it whenever it’s playing near you.

She Said had its world premiere at the NYFF on October 13 and will be released in theaters on November 18.

FILM RATING

Related Topics:Carrie Mulligan PFF REVIEWS She Said

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Andrew Korpan

Andrew is an entertainment journalist and film "critic" who has written for the likes of Above the Line, Below the Line, Collider, Film Focus Online, /Film and The Hollywood Handle among others. Leader of the Kaitlyn Dever Fanclub.

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Expendables 4 Movie Review | Explosive & Funny!

Published

3 days ago

September 22, 2023

Jacques van Zyl

Expendables 4 (Lionsgate Movies)

The following piece was written during the 2023 Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the movie material being covered here wouldn’t exist.

Plot

A new generation of stars join the world’s top action stars for an adrenaline-fueled adventure in Expend4bles. Reuniting as the team of elite mercenaries, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, and Sylvester Stallone are joined for the first time by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Megan Fox, Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, Jacob Scipio, Levy Tran, and Andy Garcia. Armed with every weapon they can get their hands on and the skills to use them, The Expendables are the world’s last line of defense and the team that gets called when all other options are off the table. But new team members with new styles and tactics are going to give “new blood” a whole new meaning.

*Iko Uwais as Suarto Rahmat (Lionsgate Movies)*

The Expendables Film Series

I highly recommend catching up on the other movies in the Expendables film series.

Expendables 1 (2010)

The only life they’ve known is war. The only loyalty they have is to each other. They are the Expendables: leader and mastermind Barney Ross (Stallone), former SAS blade expert Lee Christmas (Statham), hand-to-hand combat specialist Yin Yang (Li), long barrel weapons specialist Hale Caesar (Crews), demolitions expert Toll Road (Couture), and precision sniper Gunnar Jensen (Lundgren). Living life in the fringes of the law, these hardened mercenaries take on what appears to be a routine assignment: a covert, CIA-funded operation to infiltrate the South American country of Vilena and overthrow its ruthless dictator General Garza (David Zayas). But when their job is revealed to be a suicide mission, the men are faced with a deadly choice, one that might redeem their souls or destroy their brotherhood forever.

The Expendables Official Trailer (Lionsgate Movies)

Expendables 2

Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone), Lee Christmas (Jason Statham), Yin Yang (Jet Li), Gunnar Jensen (Dolph Lundgren),Toll Road (Randy Couture) and Hale Caesar (Terry Crews) — with newest members Billy the Kid (Liam Hemsworth) and Maggie (Yu Nan) aboard — are reunited when Mr. Church (Bruce Willis) enlists the Expendables to take on a seemingly simple job. The task looks like an easy paycheck for Barney and his band of old-school mercenaries. But when things go wrong and one of their own is viciously killed, the Expendables are compelled to seek revenge in hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them. Hell-bent on payback, the crew cuts a swath of destruction through opposing forces, wreaking havoc and shutting down an unexpected threat in the nick of time — six tons of weapons-grade plutonium; enough to change the balance of power in the world. But that’s nothing compared to the justice they serve against the villainous adversary who savagely murdered their brother. That is done the Expendables way….

The Expendables 2 Official Trailer (Lionsgate Movies)

Expendables 3 (2014)

In The Expendables 3, Barney (Stallone), Christmas (Statham) and the rest of the team comes face-to-face with Conrad Stonebanks (Gibson), who years ago co-founded The Expendables with Barney. Stonebanks subsequently became a ruthless arms trader and someone who Barney was forced to kill… or so he thought. In order to defeat Stonebanks, Barney decides that he has to fight old blood with new blood, and brings in a new era of Expendables team members, recruiting individuals who are younger, faster and more tech-savvy. The latest mission becomes a clash of classic old-school style versus high-tech expertise in the Expendables’ most personal battle yet.

The Expendables 3 Official Trailer (Lionsgate Movies)

Movie Review

Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture and Sylvester Stallone bring the explosive energy needed to give us an explosive performance on-screen. The new members, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Megan Fox, Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, Jacob Scipio, Levy Tran, and Andy Garcia bring in a breath of fresh air with new attitude and fighting styles to keep us entertained. This movie is the fourth in the Expendable film series, but there is definitely no clear link between this movie and the prequels. Each movie in essence is a new mission and Expendables 4 can be watched without watching the previous movies. I suggest watching the previous three movies to experience the explosive action that you get when you combine our favorite action heroes.

*Sylvester Stallone as Barney Ross, leader of the Expendables (Lionsgate Movies)*

Expendables 4 was great and delivered yet another action-packed mission filled with awesome fights, humor, cultural references and explosions. However, it wasn’t difficult to spot the main villain and there aren’t much surprises in terms of the new action stars who join this mission.

The movie starts us off with the Expendables in a race against time to retrieve nuclear warheads, but the mission goes south and instead of sticking to orders, one of the soldiers attempt to save his team member instead, which results in a failed mission and a casualty. The story follows the combination of accomplishing the mission while delivering a can of revenge-based whoop-ass. The last fight isn’t as explosive as the cast but still manages to deliver a plot-twist finale.

*Megan Fox, Andy Garcia & Jacob Scipio, some of the newest members of the Expendables (Lionsgate Movies)*

A future sequel should really consider a completely new group pick up the baton and leave us in suspense as to who the new heroes and villains could be. I love a good surprise with a side of plot twist in any movie.

There is no post-credits scene, so no need to wait till the very end. The trailer doesn’t spoil any of the plot twists you can expect from the movie. Overall, my rating for Expendables 4 is a 3.5 out of 5.

Make sure to watch at a cinema near you!

Expend4bles Official Trailer (Lionsgate Movies)

FILM RATING

Reviews

Sung Kang’s ‘Shaky Shivers’ is a Campy Horror-Comedy With Superb Performances

Published

5 days ago

September 21, 2023

Aayush Sharma

Brooke Markham and VyVy Nguyen in 'Shaky Shivers' (Cineverse)

If you thought that Sung Kang can only thrill you with amazing car stunts, then you are wrong. The acclaimed star is set to take you on an entertaining ride with his directorial debut titled ‘Shaky Shivers’.

The latest horror-comedy film marks the feature directorial debut of Sung Kang, renowned for his roles in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and several other big projects. The movie stars Brooke Markham and VyVy Nguyen, with an ensemble cast including Jimmy Bellinger, Erin Daniels, and Herschel Sparber.

A still from ‘Shaky Shivers’ (Cineverse)

From the very beginning, ‘Shaky Shivers’ grabs hold of your attention with the comedic chemistry between lead actresses Brooke Markham (Lucy) and VyVy Nguyen (Karen). Their hilarious banter and dynamic friendship draw you into their world of magic, mayhem, and monstrous encounters. While a few other characters make appearances, the heart of the film rests on the shoulders of Karen and Lucy, whose relatable and believable friendship makes the story even more bewitching.

One of the best aspects of the film is how Sung Kang skillfully directs the title despite limited cast and limited settings. It still manages to keep audiences engaged and entertained. Kang also pays homage to classic horror films like ‘American Werewolf in London’ and injects fresh energy into the scenes while showcasing his comedic flair.

A still from ‘Shaky Shivers’ (Cineverse)

If you are one of those who enjoy unapologetically goofy and fun movies, ‘Shaky Shivers’ is undoubtedly a fun watch. Embracing its campiness, the film doesn’t try to be anything other than an enjoyable ride filled with supernatural elements. The characters have a helpful book of spells that they use to solve problems, which adds a clever and funny element to the story that will make you laugh..

While categorized as a horror-comedy, ‘Shaky Shivers’ leans more towards comedy than horror. However, don’t worry, as the supernatural beings like werewolves, zombies, and witches make their presence known throughout. The practical effects and impressive monster makeup, reminiscent of old-school horror flicks from the 70s and 80s, immerse you in a world of creatures and enchantment.

A still from ‘Shaky Shivers’ (Cineverse)

The plot of ‘Shaky Shivers’ escalates in an exciting and compelling manner, filled with unpredictable twists and goofy surprises. While it may not leave you terrified, the perfect blend of supernatural ambiance and comedic moments guarantees plenty of laughter and enjoyment.

In conclusion, ‘Shaky Shivers’ is a must-watch horror-comedy that delivers on laughs, friendship, and supernatural encounters. With its engaging storyline, talented cast, and Sung Kang’s impressive directorial debut, the film is a delightful addition to the genre. So grab a large tub of popcorn and take your family for this fun-filled ride.

FILM RATING

Reviews

Sex Education Season 4 is a Spectacular (and Overstuffed) Conclusion to One of Netflix’s Extraordinary Series

Published

5 days ago

September 21, 2023

Aayush Sharma

Official posted of 'Sex Education' Season 4 (Netflix)

When the first season of Sex Education came out on Netflix in 2019, it felt pretty daring and exciting for everyone. While there were many shows about teenagers and sex, ‘Sex Education’ stood out because it talked about these topics openly and covered them in a pretty detailed manner. Without any guesses, the show became really popular and is now considered a classic on Netflix. For 3 long seasons, viewers have seen students of Moordale, and everyone around them, dealing with a lot of complications, but now, it’s time to say goodbye to some of our character as the Netflix series has returned for its fourth and final edition.

At the end of Season 3, Moordale Secondary School closed down. This means that Otis, Eric, Aimee, Jackson, Vivienne, Cal, and Ruby have to go to a new school, Cavendish Sixth Form College. Some of them fit in well, while others struggle. And while Otis tries to focus on his therapy work, he finds out that there are other young people who are experts on relationships and sex in town.

Gillian Anderson as Jean Milburn in ‘Sex Education’ Season 4 (Netflix)

One of the strengths of Sex Education is its diverse and inclusive representation. The show shines a light on various sexual orientations, gender identities, and cultural backgrounds, providing a platform for underrepresented voices. Season 4 continues to explore these themes, introducing new characters who add depth and complexity to the narrative. On ghe other hand, the only problem with Season 4 is that there are too many things going on at once. There are so many sub-plots that might distract you at times and make you feel that this story might have looked good if there was another season in pipeline.

Even then, the writing remains sharp and witty, creating relatable and genuine teenage characters who grapple with their own insecurities and desires.

Ncuti Gatwa as Eric Effiong in Sex Education Season 4 (Netflix)

The performances in ‘Sex Education’ Season 4 are consistently strong. Asa Butterfield brings vulnerability and charm to his role as Otis, portraying the character’s growth and maturity. Ncuti Gatwa shines as Eric, capturing both his strength and vulnerability as he navigates new relationships and personal challenges. Emma Mackey delivers a nuanced performance as Maeve, showcasing her character’s intelligence and emotional depth. Mimi Keene is stupendous as well and bring another layer to her character which was so nice to see. Meanwhile, Gillian Anderson does what she is best at: deliver another extraordinary performance.

Emma Mackey as Maeve in Sex Education Season 4. (Netflix)

On the other hand, Aimee Lou Wood continues to mesmerise us with her charm and simplicity. Directors should definitely look at her and give her a leading role soon because she deserves it. Another actor that is surely a star in the making is Anthony Lexa, who portrays Abbi in Season 4. Her performance adds an additional charm to the series and gives a hope to Trans actors that they can too achieve their dreams.

A still from ‘Sex Education’ Season 4 (Netflix)

The final edition tackles difficult topics with sensitivity and care, highlighting the importance of consent, communication, and understanding in relationships. The show’s ability to tackle these issues head-on without becoming preachy is a testament to its thoughtful storytelling.

While the final season of ‘Sex Education’ does have some pacing and narrative issues, the strength of the performances, the thoughtful exploration of important issues, and the show’s commitment to inclusivity make it a satisfying and engaging watch. It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to these beloved characters, but the legacy of Sex Education will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the television landscape.

Sex Education Season 4. (L to R) Mimi Keene as Ruby, Asa Butterfield as Otis in Sex Education Season 4 (Netflix)

In conclusion, ‘Sex Education’ Season 4 continues to deliver a standout and boundary-pushing narrative that explores sexuality, identity, and personal growth with humor and sensitivity. Despite some minor flaws, the show remains a shining example of inclusive storytelling and offers a heartfelt farewell to its beloved characters.

Some goodbyes are hard and this is certainly one of them.

FILM RATING