Joker: Folie à Deux is what happens when a gritty supervillain story decides to toss in jazz hands and show tunes—and you know what? It kind of works. Listen up to Silas in his review of the sequel to Joker and hear what he thinks of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga’s performance in this unexpected musical.
Interview – Dr. Erin MacDonald
This week on “Black and A Half” with Silas Lindenstein, an insightful and engaging interview with the incredible Dr. Erin MacDonald! As an astrophysicist, the science consultant for the Star Trek franchise, and a voice actor on Star Trek: Prodigy, Dr. MacDonald brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our conversation about the intersection of science and science fiction.
In this episode, Dr. MacDonald takes us through her fascinating journey in the world of astrophysics and explains why Star Trek stands out as science fiction rather than fantasy. She also answers my well-known seven questions and responds to some intriguing listener queries, providing a well-rounded look at her professional and personal life.
Watch the Video Interview:
Listen to the Podcast Episode:
Enjoy the episode, and don’t forget to leave your comments and share your thoughts on the interview! Make sure to subscribe to the blog, YouTube channel, and podcast for more exciting interviews and movie reviews.
Interview: Xenia LeBlanc
lcome to another episode of “You’re Watching A Movie With Silas Lindenstein”! This week, I had the pleasure of interviewing Xenia LeBlanc, the talented writer and director of the short film “The Exposed.” Xenia takes us through her fascinating journey from studying acting around the world to creating her gripping horror short film.
In this interview, we delve into the unique dynamics of her filmmaking partnership with her husband, Nicholas Acosta, and how they navigate their creative projects together. Xenia reveals the challenges and creative process behind “The Exposed,” a film crafted without CGI or visual effects, and the inspiration she drew from her Russian childhood, including a chilling episode of “Rescue 911.”
Watch and Listen Below:
VIDEO INTERVIEW
AUDIO-ONLY PODCAST
Highlights of the Interview:
- Filmmaking Couple Dynamics: Insights into working and creating films with her husband, Nicholas Acosta.
- Creating “The Exposed”: Behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film and overcoming challenges without CGI.
- Inspirations and Horror Genre Insights: How Xenia’s childhood experiences and love for horror influenced her storytelling.
- Cultural Influences: Discussions about the impact of her Russian background on her creative process.
Links:
- Watch “The Exposed”: https://youtu.be/YRfrgRcYOZo
Join us for an engaging and insightful conversation with Xenia LeBlanc, filled with personal anecdotes, filmmaking tips, and a closer look at her latest project. Don’t forget to leave your comments and share your thoughts on the film!
Enjoy the episode and make sure to subscribe for more exciting interviews and movie reviews!
Reviews: Challengers
Challengers (2024)
R ‧ Sports/Romance ‧ 2 Hours 11 Minutes
Written by Justin Kuritzkes
Directed by Luca Guadagnino
THE CAST
Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist.
THE STORY
(In their own words). Tashi, a tennis player turned coach, has transformed her husband from a mediocre player into a world-famous grand slam champion. To jolt him out of his recent losing streak, she makes him play a challenger event — close to the lowest level of tournament on the pro tour. Tensions soon run high when he finds himself standing across the net from the once-promising, now burnt-out Patrick, his former best friend, and Tashi’s former boyfriend.
THE BEST
The BEST things about the film
1. Narrative Structure: The non-linear storytelling approach is one of the film’s strongest aspects. This method isn’t just for show—it crafts a more intricate and engaging viewer experience, allowing the audience to piece together the characters’ pasts and present, thereby deepening the emotional and psychological complexity of the narrative. It helps frame the personal histories and motivations in a way that a linear narrative might not manage as effectively.
2. Cinematography and Visual Style: The film employs bold and experimental cinematography that sets it apart. Particularly notable is the use of the tennis ball POV shots during match scenes, which not only intensify the gameplay but also metaphorically represent the back-and-forth dynamics of the characters’ relationships. This creative decision enhances the immersive quality of the film, making the tennis matches not just a sport to be watched but a lens through which interpersonal conflicts are explored.
3. Acting: Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist deliver phenomenal performances. Zendaya, in particular, should be praised for her nuanced portrayal of Tashi, who transitions from a tennis prodigy to a coach, grappling with her own past glories and current challenges. Her ability to convey deep emotional undercurrents—her passion for tennis, her complex relationships, and her own regrets and aspirations—anchors the film. O’Connor and Faist also deliver compelling performances, adding to the film’s emotional depth.
4. Engagement and Pacing: Despite its runtime of over two hours, the film does not feel its length, indicating effective pacing and engagement. This aspect is crucial in maintaining audience interest and speaks to the director’s skill in crafting a narrative that is both absorbing and brisk, keeping viewers hooked from start to finish.
THE WORST
The WORST things about the Film
1. Frustrating Character Choices: Some characters in the film make decisions that could potentially frustrate or perplex viewers. While integral to the plot and character development, these choices might not align with what the audience feels would be the ‘right’ or expected decisions. This can lead to dissatisfaction or disconnect with the characters, potentially impacting the viewer’s overall engagement with the story. However, it’s important to note that these choices also add to the realism and complexity of the narrative, as real-life decisions and relationships are often messy and challenging.
2. Polarizing Cinematography: The film employs innovative cinematography techniques, including very close-up shots and slow-motion sequences that might not appeal to everyone. Specifically, using the camera point of view from a tennis ball, could be distracting or disorienting for some audience members. While these techniques are designed to enhance the immersive experience and reflect the characters’ psychological and emotional states, they risk being perceived as overly stylized or gimmicky, potentially pulling some viewers out of the narrative rather than drawing them deeper in.
3. Specific Taste Required: The narrative and visual style of “Challengers” demands a certain appreciation for artistic filmmaking and a tolerance for non-traditional storytelling methods. Audiences looking for a straightforward sports drama might find the film’s approach too unconventional or challenging, which could limit its appeal to a broader audience.
THE COMMENTS
The film employs a daring approach to its cinematography and narrative structure that sets it apart from typical sports dramas. It challenges traditional storytelling norms in the sports genre, making it a topic of interest for discussions on film technique and character development.
THE LESSON
- The Importance of Passion for Success: The film illustrates how essential genuine passion and love for what you do are for achieving success. This theme is evident in the portrayal of Tashi’s character, whose deep love for tennis drives her and highlights the contrast with characters who may lack the same level of dedication. This passion is shown to be a crucial factor in overcoming obstacles and achieving personal and professional goals.
- The Complexity of Relationships and Growth: “Challengers” delves into how personal relationships can profoundly impact an individual’s growth and success. The characters’ interactions and history demonstrate that our connections with others can both challenge and propel us forward. The film suggests that navigating these relationships with honesty and resilience is key to personal development and fulfillment.
IS IT REWATCHABLE
Yes, “Challengers” is rewatchable. The layered narrative and intricate character dynamics make it a film that could offer new insights on subsequent viewings. The technical aspects of the film, like its cinematography, also make it worth revisiting to appreciate the artistic choices more fully.
THE FINAL WORD
“Challengers” delivers a potent mix of intense sports action and deep personal drama, elevated by standout performances from Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist. Luca Guadagnino’s daring narrative techniques and bold cinematography turn this tennis story into a compelling exploration of ambition, love, and the personal costs of greatness. Engaging, emotionally charged, and visually inventive, it’s a film that redefines the boundaries of sports cinema.
THE VERDICT
My 3L system gives me the choice to Love It, Like It, or Lose It.
For “Challengers,” I definitely “Love It.” It’s a film that entertains and engages on an intellectual and emotional level, prompting reflection and discussion.
THE TRAILER
THE MEME REVIEW
VIDEO REVIEW
AUDIO-ONLY REVIEW
Episode #214: Chantel Riley – 7 Questions
Interview with the star of the new film Colorblind, Chantel Riley. She discusses how she got into acting and answers the world-famous seven questions.
Available in video and audio-only podcast.
VIDEO
AUDIO ONLY PODCAST
Review: The Super Mario Bros. Movie
The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)
PG ‧ Action Adventure ‧ 1 Hours 32 Minutes
Written by Matthew Fogel
Directed by Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic
THE CAST
- Chris Pratt as Mario
- Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach
- Charlie Day as Luigi
- Jack Black as Bowser
- Keegan-Michael Key as Toad:
- Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong:
- Fred Armisen as Cranky Kong:
- Sebastian Maniscalco as Foreman Spike
- Charles Martinet, who voices Mario and Luigi in the Mario games, has various cameos.
- Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek
THE STORY
(In their own words). With help from Princess Peach, Mario gets ready to square off against the all-powerful Bowser to stop his plans from conquering the world.
THE BEST
The BEST things about the film
- Nostalgia.
- About half the time they did a great job translating the world of mario from a game to a narrative.
- Visually, sort of stunning. But not surprising. Some things are just really cool to see in a movie setting.
- Jack Black is wonderful in the role of Bowser.
THE WORST
The WORST things about the Film
- Weak character development leading to not really caring whether Mario can save Luigi.
- They spent too much time being cute and not enough time working the a story.
- Some of the time early in the film where they tried to make the movie look like a game, was just kind of stupid. They did it much better later on.
- The first half of the movie, I was honestly a bit bored. I didn’t active dislike the movie during that time, I just wasn’t engaged with it.
- Really needed more humor. I’ve complaining a lot about the overindulgence of jokes in the superhero genre of films, but I felt like the reverse happened here. This could have been a great opportunity to inject a film full of humor to keep it moving. And while, it was silly at times, and I could see them trying to set it up as a funny scene, they too often just couldn’t deliver on a funny joke. It feels like they thought “hey, wouldn’t it be funny if “ so then created that premise, but never went back to finish the joke.
THE COMMENTS
I think when the first trailer dropped for this movie, I was so distracted by the casting of Chris Pratt, but I didn’t really think much about what else could go wrong with the film.
I also didn’t really think about how much of a kids movie they would be making. Because Hollywood is making a lot of money right now by making movies on intellectual properties that appeal to my Gen X peers. And we are a group of individuals that have strong nostalgia toward our childhood, and are at an age where we can start to afford to see the movies, buy the merchandise and visit the theme parks with our kids. So, I thought they would attempt to make this movie appeal to us. In the sense that they filmed the movie full of Nintendo game nostalgia and include a nihilist perky star, I supposed they did. Gen X loves nihilist characters (or does everyone). But in the sense that the plot really being very simplistic and at times boring, lending itself to a Neftlix original kids movie, it wasn’t for us.
Was I expecting it to be Oscar worthy? I don’t know, with competing animation studios doing some pretty awesome animated films now. Disney has done some rather amazing films lately that appeal to all ages and I shouldn’t only expect that from them. This film would have ended up making a lot more money if it spent less time trying to be cute and more time on the basics of moviemaking. And if you are spending the money to put big movie stars in the film, why wouldn’t you attempt to get adults on board who are more apt to spend lots of money on it, if they enjoy it also?
THE LESSON
Together, anything is possible.
AFTER CREDIT SCENES
Two. Stay for them both.
IS IT REWATCHABLE
Maybe with your kids.
THE FINAL WORD
I think when the first trailer of the movie came out I was so focused on the poor casting choice of Chris Pratt as Mario that I didn’t realize he was the red herring to lure my complaints to somewhere else. Visually, its animation is fantastic. It’s like watching a Mario video game on the biggest screen imaginable. And it gives you a chance to smile, yet rarely laugh, at all the nostalgia Nintendo can provide you, as you are reminded throughout the film of all the different video games you’ve played over the years. It is a cute movie at times, but done at the expense of just focusing on creating an engaging story. They had the plot points that should have made a really good film, but the writers failed to add character development to the hero’s stories. At times I was actually bored, but the second half picked it up a bit for me. Jack Black is a stand out performer voicing Bowser. I didn’t hate this film, as I expected I would a week ago, but I can’t say I thoroughly enjoyed it. I do think my kids will really have a fun time watching it.
THE VERDICT
My 3L system gives me the choice to Love It, Like It, or Lose It.
I give it a “Like Minus”. If you miss it on the big screen, I would rather just play a mario game than watch the movie.
THE TRAILER
THE MEME REVIEW
THE AUDIO REVIEW
https://embeds.audioboom.com/posts/8276209/embed/hero#?secret=HO5nHXYDQMTHE VIDEO REVIEW
Episode #208: The Cast of The Umbrella Men
This week Silas got to sit down with the Cast of The Umbrella Man, a new South African action/comedy/heist film, while they were in attendance at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Episode #207: Episode 207: ECCC 2022 Recap with Guest Angela Rairden
Podcast Recap and Review of Emerald City Comicon 2022. Silas sat down with a fellow member of the press, blogger from Frankie’s Comics, Angela Rairden to discuss this years ECCC, the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Also, I promised on the podcast, a photo gallery of the photos I took at comicon. I’m having trouble with the gallery and the photos loading. So until I figure that out, below is a video of the pictures I would have put up.
I
Review: Bodies Bodies Bodies
Bodies, Bodies, Bodies (2022)
R ‧ Horror Comedy ‧ 1 Hour 35 Minutes
Screenplay by Sarah DeLappe
Story by Kristen Roupenian
Directed by Halina Reijn
THE CAST
Amandla Stenberg, Maria Bakalova, Myha’la Herrold, Chase Sui Wonders, Rachel Sennott, Lee Pace, and Pete Davidson.
THE STORY
(In their own words)
When a group of rich 20-somethings plan a hurricane party at a remote family mansion, a party game turns deadly in this fresh and funny look at backstabbing, fake friends, and one party gone very, very wrong.
THE BEST
The BEST things about the film
- The comedy – very funny film. Possibly now a current favorite horror comedy.
- The suspense – Trying to figure out who the killer is, waiting for twists, waiting for the next death, trying to figure the whole thing out, was amazingly exciting.
- The satire. The satire of the film to me seemed to be a commentary on the juxtaposition of the starring generation. This is a generation that is really in touch with their emotions and aware how their words can harm other people. Yet at the same time they feel empty.
THE WORST
The WORST things about the Film
- It’s definitely a film of convenience. Set up too perfectly.
- Some exposition to explain dumb things people did, seemed unnecessary.
- My lack of a time machine to go back in time and watch this again for the first time.
THE REVIEW
After every screening I see, I’m supposed to give notes to the PR firm holding the screening, let me share with you what I said to the things I told them:
“A refreshingly and surprisingly wonderfully done horror comedy, with an emphasis on the comedy.
Honest performances, never over the top, played for keeps never for laughs, but the laughs kept coming.
Pete Davidson is fantastic.
Wonderful ensemble! Acting, chemistry, they did it all so wonderfully.
Can’t wait to see it again.
It is the “do-not-miss horror of the year.”
Spot-on satire of a generation that has amazing levels of empathy and understanding of other people’s difficulties yet can’t find their own purpose.”
That should give you a sense of how I felt about this film.
They say it is a lot harder to write a review of a film you like than to write one for a film you hate. It’s really hard for me to write this review. I just want to gush over how much I enjoyed this.
I feel like I watch a lot of TV and film, and I just couldn’t predict this film. It’s horror, but it wasn’t as gory as I was afraid it would be. It showed it was also a comedy, but it was WAY funnier than I predicted. I thought I knew who the killer was, then I thought I knew who they were trying to make me think the killer was, then I thought I knew the red herring, cause it’s actually this other person….I was never right. I could just never predict what would happen. And that is absolutely exhilarating.
I don’t think the film will be considered a film to “change the genre” but it at minimum should set a bar of excellence because this film is truly wonderful. The writing is wonderful. The script is witty, the characters are fully developed, they are driven with clear motivations, they reveal things at just the right times, there are wonderfully developed social commentaries throughout the film, which is so wonderful to see in a horror comedy.
The acting is surprisingly awesome. Pete Davidson was just terrific and it makes me want to go watch his other films to see if I’ve been missing something.
THE LESSON
This movie is stacked full of lessons! It really is!
Lessons in white privilege, in ableism, in understanding the hardships others experience and trying to be an ally. But ultimately I came away with this:
Being an ally is great….but making yourself empty inside is horrible.
REWATCHABLE?
Absolutely. One of the first movies in a while that I can’t wait to watch again.
THE FINAL WORD
If you want a great laugh and scream movie, Bodies Bodies Bodies is it. It definitely has the blood and guts of a horror film. But it’s comedy makes me forget all that. This is close to the most fun I’ve had in a theater this year.
THE VERDICT
My 3L system gives me the choice to Love It, Like It, or Lose It.
Bodies Bodies Bodies gets a Love It
THE TRAILER
Review: Prey (2022)
Prey (2022)
R ‧ Scifi/Action – 1 hour 39 Minutes
Written by Patrick Aison
Directed by Dan Trachtenberg
THE CAST
- Amber Midthunder as Naru, a young Comanche warrior who protects her tribe against a Predator
- Dakota Beavers as Taabe
- Dane DiLiegro as the Predator
- Stormee Kipp
- Michelle Thrush
- Julian Black Antelope
THE STORY
(In their own words) In the Comanche Nation in 1717, a fierce and highly skilled warrior named Naru learns the prey she is stalking is a highly evolved alien with a technologically advanced arsenal
THE BEST
The BEST things about the film
- It’s a really cool addition to the franchise. Love the setting in the Native American world.
- They are releasing the film in a full Comanche language dubbing. This is the first time ever for a feature film.
- Love seeing an action film with a really strong female lead.
THE WORST
The WORST things about the Film
- The special effects of a bear are really bad. For a movie with this kind of budget….come on. Really?
- The lack of consistency with using Native American language and “English” and accent or no accent.
- Unlike the original, there doesn’t seem to be much of a deeper underlying message to the film. It’s just there for fun.
THE REVIEW
I will admit, I rolled my eyes when I heard they were coming out with a fifth installment of the Predator franchise called Prey. Like, haven’t we mined this franchise for enough material yet? However, once I learned about the premise I became intrigued. This installment is technically a prequel to the others, set long ago in Native American land in 1717. From the trailer it was unclear if the Predator was the one hunting the members of the Comanche Nation or if it was the other way around. Which actually is kind of an accurate question even during the film.
The story centers around a young female warrior, Naru (Amber Midthunder) who’s trying to earn the respect of her fellow tribemates, when suddenly The Predator shows up. Seemingly, the Predator seems like he’s just there to find prey to hunt. To her, it’s a sign from the gods that she’s ready to be a hunter and she’s ready to capture him. But things don’t go as easily as she hoped.
Midhunter does a wonderful job in the lead role, showing herself to be a formidable opponent of the predator and someone who deserves the respect of it and her peers.
At this point, the success of the film and to an extent. really comes down to whether the story they tell with the Predator is a good one. We aren’t expecting surprises, we know what the Predator’s people can do…so it is really about did they come up with a good story and execute it well. I feel like they did on both counts.
The film was full of captivating drama and action, it gave us enough of a sense to not really know how it would end throughout. We didn’t know how these folks with less technology would stand a chance against the predator.
I enjoyed this film a lot. I’m not entirely in love with it, but it is probably the best entry into the Predator franchise since the original. I really enjoyed seeing the intersection of scifi/fantasy and the old technology living of the Comanche Nation.
This is a great popcorn film.
THE LESSON
Never underestimate your opponent.
If you won’t fight back, you may not be worth it.
THE FINAL WORD
The fifth installment of the Predator franchise is probably the best one in decades. Intense, action packed, and a creative 1717 Comanche Nation setting.
THE VERDICT
My 3L system gives me the choice to Love It, Like It, or Lose It.
Prey gets a Like It
WHERE TO WATCH
Prey will be streaming on Hulu in the U.S. on Friday, August 5.
THE TRAILER
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