Posts

Showing posts from November, 2019

The Mandalorian Chapter 1 Spoiler-Free Review

Image
(A version of this article originally appeared on kernelnow.com / mynewslike.com) Though the idea of a Star Wars sequel trilogy seemed far-fetched before Disney’s 2012 takeover of Lucasfilm, the release of The Mandalorian to Disney+ finally brings to a fruition an idea that did seem altogether more likely in the years before Disney’s rapid expansion: a live-action Star Wars TV show. It was an idea long developed by ‘The Maker’ George Lucas himself, mostly in the form of the infamous Star Wars Underworld series that proved too expensive to bring to life. However, with the arrival of the House of Mouse and their seemingly-unlimited backing, “the most expensive show ever made” is finally here. The man with no name, perhaps – but there is no absence of budget here (source: starwars.com) Following the exploits of an as-yet-unnamed bounty hunter – the titular ‘Mandalorian’ – this premiere episode explores his quest to bring in a particularly difficult bounty. In an opening scene tha

The Irishman Review

Image
(A version of this article originally appeared on kernelnow.com / mynewslike.com) Like cellular devices or DVDs before it, video streaming is now a part of life. Ever since services evolved into the arena of original content, film-makers have argued that they threaten the existence of big screen cinema – and they may have a point . It’s interesting, then, that Martin Scorsese – famed film lover , historian and beloved director – would lend his work to streaming giants Netflix. Perhaps it was their supporting this long-gestating passion project , or maybe it’s just that he and his films, even in the 52nd year of his career, continue to stare down the cinematic status quo . Whatever the case, through the studio’s $159 million backing Scorsese has finally been able to put together The Irishman . This latest crime epic follows Robert De Niro in the title role as Frank Sheeran, who rises to become mob hitman AND confidant/guard for famed but forgotten Teamster, Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacin