Written by John Edward Betancourt Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Short Feature Film, ‘Arman & Elisa’. We live at a point in human history, where we are desperate to enact change when it comes to the darkness that surrounds us. Simply because there is an understanding that said darkness is destructive and it inspires the wrong acts in the wrong people, and we know that without doing something soon… darkness might take hold. Since it preys upon fear and hurt and all the worst parts of the human condition. Which is why we have tried to inject kindness into the lives of impoverished children, so they don’t have to experience the cruelty of the world and will never once be inspired to fight against it. And of course, we are trying to better understand mental health in the hopes of preventing that from being a cause of darkness. Since a mind broken by trauma might be inspired to find a sense of justice. Yet, despite saving those children, and helping those in need… it persists. In fact, little of what we’ve done has really put a dent in evil. For it still exists in this world and has no qualms creating more of itself. So how then… do we stop it? How do we combat that which is seemingly unstoppable? Well, in the regular world we don’t seem to have those answers, but slowly and surely, stories are beginning to ponder upon the answers in a frank manner. Since stories observe what we don’t think to look for sometimes, and therein lies surprises and fixes, and it just so happens that a short feature film that recently screened at the Austin Film Festival, works to explore the answers to those questions. Which makes Arman & Elisa quite the poignant and powerful film. One that plunges us into the heart of Luxembourg. Where an Iranian boy named Arman is eager to make friends at a new school but is struggling to do so. Simply because that is how life goes when you’re the new kid in town. But eventually he makes friends with a young girl named Elisa and they quickly learn to trust and stand with one another. To the point where it seems their friendship is about to become one for the ages. But one fine day, when they work to create a little art, they find themselves in trouble with the school. For they have painted something inappropriate and now, it will be up to the adults to help them be accountable for their actions, provided of course… the adults can stop pointing fingers at who is really at fault for the creation of this art. Which is a plot that outright speaks to the reality… that the reason why darkness and division persists, relates more to our actions in the everyday world. Because every single day, we have the chance to help enact change and inspire good, but don’t, as is the case here. After all, a grand mistake by these children, should have been easily corrected by way of a good talking to from their parents. Wherein they could have learned what made their painting so wildly inappropriate and why they should not have invoked the imagery they did. Which would in turn, allow for powerful lessons about hate and the darkness of the world to come to light. The kind that would in fact… help to combat the darkness and help us to understand, we are all one. But instead, there’s that damn infighting between parents and families, the kind where division persists, and a bold choice is made, one where Elisa is ordered to never speak to Arman again, and therein lies the proof as to how we crate that division and inspire darkness. Because a little girl learned that boys from Iran are trouble, and that boy learned that trying to be friends with a white person from the Western World is a waste of time. Creating the divisions, we are supposedly desperate to end, and that could in turn, help hate grow, in a child’s heart. The kind that will keep the fighting going, the darkness going. All because of the ignorance and hypocrisy of adults who believe they know best, when in fact they don’t practice what they preach and that makes… for a stunning short feature. One that truly gives us pause. Because… there’s real gravity and power to what is explored in writer/director’s Kiyan Agadjani’s brilliant script, and real truth as well. Because hate and division are indeed taught. Making it essential that we work as a society, as a species to practice what we preach in our everyday lives, and really teach others what evil in the world looks like so they know to avoid it and never practice it. Which is of course, easier said than done, since we’ve been doing the opposite for far too many generations. But all it takes, is a handful to truly break the cycle… and time. And if we can do the opposite of what we see here, change will eventually come to this world, and it is wonderful to know that stories such as this brilliant feature, are recognizing that and speaking it aloud… so the conversations can begin, and the darkness can eventually fade.
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Written by John Edward Betancourt It is definitely safe to say, that there is an air of doom surrounding our world, and it makes sense as to why. After all, war continues to rage over issues that seem unsolvable and there is unrest in our nations regarding what tomorrow should look like thanks to a generational divide, and of course… there’s a real fear about what the landscape of the planet is going to look like in the next fifty years. For we may well be the first species to discover that our actions and our push to create a busy world and a grand economy, has put the planet in real climate trouble. Through our carbon footprints and the fossil fuels we use and well… there’s a terrifying fight over that too. Since there are some who want to side with the money and the corporations to maintain stock prices, while there are others who simply don’t believe the science and that leaves us wondering what will be and it doesn’t seem good. Because as we combat one another, we are not combatting the problem at hand. But what we often forget during these trying times, is that not all the news is bad. Because all we focus upon and hear about is the worst of the worst, not the people who are rushing toward the danger to save lives, nor do we hear much about the people that are working hard to be the ones to solve our biggest problems. But perhaps we should, for that might change our outlook and energize us to believe in something more, in a better tomorrow, and it just so happens that a brand-new movie that recently screened at the Austin Film Festival, makes a point of offering that hope. By giving us a story that features the plight of someone trying to do more than sit back and wait for endless debate to solve the problem, and that makes Bolt from the Blue quite the important film. One that introduces us to an overworked engineer named Mia who is desperate to make her mark on the engineering world and eager to perhaps solve some of mankind’s problems. But the structure of her company, and its misogyny, keeps her working overtime to accomplish nothing. Which is why she is more than happy to take an assignment to check out something unique in Alaska. For a man named Lucas Fletcher has posed to her company, the possibility of capturing and harnessing the power of lightning. An idea so refreshing that she is tasked with stealing it if indeed it works. But her arrival in the wilderness of Alaska, and her time with Lucas changes her outlook on her life and her career. For Lucas carries within him a powerful energy, the kind that speaks to a man willing to sacrifice everything in the name of science and the greater good, and she’s ready to listen to his ideas and feed off of his energy to see if by chance… he’s onto something that will indeed change the world. Which is a plot that really does ponder upon the wonder of ingenuity and of the unsung heroes that are out there right now, trying to enact change. For in many ways, Lucas represents the good people who invented the new trash collection systems that are being deployed in our oceans, or the person that is working day and night to find a renewable source of energy and that really does remind us… that not all is lost. Because of the fact that people like Lucas exist and are fighting tooth and nail for their cause and the breakthrough they want to desperately find. Which brings about, an uplifting story to say the least. One that prompts you to root for Lucas and Mia as they fight back against those who tear them down and offer them doubt, and that is a wondrous element to find a story that touches upon climate change, and the wonder of this movie doesn’t end there. Because this is also a movie that works hard to speak to our very soul. In the respect that this is a film that outright tasks us… to be more like Lucas. To reject the dogma of doubt and of doubters and chase a dream, and grab hold of it tightly. Because the film poses the idea, that part of the problem in our world, and why we are so stagnant, is that we are no longer a world of dreamers. We’ve fallen into routine and comfort and stick with status quo because of the strange roadblocks we’ve put up, regarding ingenuity. But if we reject that, and chase the impossible… our spirits will soar, our minds will open up and the possibilities… will be endless. Which only adds to the majesty of this film, one that really does leave you feeling better about your day, about tomorrow and your own desires and wants in this world when it has come to a close. Thanks to a unique and brilliant script from writer/director Jack Martin. Who rejects much of the convention that a story like this would normally feature to really hammer home that our biggest obstacles in this life are doubt and the noise that others create. And well, while some will undoubtedly say that is too saccharine a plot and too fluffy a message, they’re wrong. For it is in fact, the right plot, and the right message, at the right time, one that gives us hope when we desperately need it. Which truly does make this an important watch, for this is that rare film that not only asks us to go for it but reminds us that the world isn’t all bad and we need to look to the good during these trying times. Because that is what will help us process the bad and call us to action, to use ingenuity and hope to change the world for the better and keep the wonder of the human condition alive for ages on end. Written by John Edward Betancourt
If there is one particular debate that comes up often amongst fans of stories, it would have to be… what makes a story truly timeless? Because what’s timeless to one person, isn’t timeless to another, and those conflicting criteria lead to the debate in question. One that is endless in nature, when it doesn’t need to be. Because believe it or not, there are simple elements to storytelling that allow for a book, movie, or short story, to live on forever. For instance… the story in question… must somehow resonate with people on a fundamental level, so that we all share in an emotional connection with said story.
Not to mention, it has to be a story that can fit in any era via messages that truly reflect the human condition and not the zeitgeist of an era. And if a story’s framework can achieve those two simple goals, it will indeed be timeless, and passed down from generation to generation. For its concepts will always find a way to connect with us and teach us lessons that fit the moment because it understands us. If anything, the lasting power of stories is top of mind today, simply because Apple TV+ has helped to give life to a powerful new adaptation of a classic and timeless story. For a fresh iteration of The Velveteen Rabbit is now on the network, and it is hands down, is the finest adaptation of the story to date, one that will ensure this story lives on for ages. Which is saying something, since the story of young William and his Velveteen Rabbit that is eager to find life and root, has been around for a century now, and so many creative minds have put their particular spin upon it and those timeless elements that we find meaning and power within. And while this iteration of the story does feature some of that, since some of those concepts are that important to revisit… it also explores new concepts that are timely and important for young minds to ponder upon and for modern adults to revisit. To offer proper reflection and learning. But before we dive too deeply into those, let’s talk a bit about how this particular movie does indeed freshen up the story’s long-standing musings on the power of acceptance.
For this particular story now uses both William and the Rabbit to ponder upon such matters. Giving rise to two sequences that adults and kids can easily relate to. Since William is indeed a bit of an outcast in this story because he moves to a new town and knows, no one, and that’s something kids have encountered and will encounter, when they move towns or perhaps start a new chapter in their schooling. And the Rabbit has to make new friends as well, in a sequence that can easily be compared to starting a new job for an adult, complete with the pretentious ‘club’ nature that the workplace sometimes harbors in this modern world. All of which maintains the core timeless nature of this story.
But once we get past the familiar stuff, does this film really shine. Because soon… it begins to explore some amazing concepts. Such as the power of unconditional love, and the importance of sacrifice when it comes to love and what that can accomplish for people in need. Plus, this is that rare story that bothers to point out that life evolves, and changes quicker than we’d like, but there’s little we can do about it. And that means we will sometimes see important people that mean the world to us, disappear from our lives because they were there for a season to teach us something valuable. Which is a very timely topic since the world is trying to better understand the dynamics of every relationship, we take part in. All of which adds incredible depth to a true timeless classic and once again, makes this story timeless for another generation. All by revisiting what we know and by exploring concepts that we are just now beginning to ponder upon. But what matters most, is that this story provides us with a beautiful and moving experience that celebrates life, and all of its ups and downs, and it gives parents a chance to pass on this story to their kids and have incredible conversations about what they’ve just seen and help them process the power and the gravity, of a timeless story. One that captures the essence of our humanity and reminds us that we are beautiful works in progress, always chasing perfection and always hoping we will achieve it. Watch ‘The Velveteen Rabbit’
Written by John Edward Betancourt One thing that every fan of holiday films can agree upon, is that holiday films are sacred in nature. In the sense that if it isn’t an independent horror story, there should be minimal darkness in those films. They should instead be about love and redemption, and the power of the season and if there is darkness, that should be used to propel the story to something positive. To really remind us of the majesty of the season and its wonder, and truly, that edict has served this type of film well for decades on end. For that is what we see year in and year out, and we do of course find joy in it, since positive stories are indeed a wondrous break from the sometimes chaos of the world. But we live in a unique time for storytelling, where there’s an opportunity for creatives to try new things and push the envelope when it comes to every type of film out there. Which is giving rise to holiday stories that now ask… can they go deeper? Can they toy with concepts that traditionally aren’t acceptable? Such as say having characters that aren’t focused on the wonder of the season and believe more in their own agenda? And of course… do all this while still celebrating the best elements of these types of films? Well as it turns out, Disney is one the studios that is curious as to what the holiday film might look like if by chance… the core tenants were toyed with and new ideas were explored and a film in that vein is about to make its debut on Disney Channel later tonight, and that makes The Naughty Nine quite the fascinating feature. Simply because… it answers those questions with a resounding yes, through the film’s unique plot. One that introduces us to a boy named Andy… who is smart, surrounded by friends, and a loving family, and absolutely beats to the tune of his own drum. Because Andy gets what he wants in this life and just before winter break, Andy makes sure to take part in a specially designed heist against his school to help him make enough money to buy accessories for the game console he’s expecting Santa to deliver. But when that console doesn’t arrive because Andy discovers he made the Naughty List, he decides to go the extra mile to get what he wants. By recruiting the most talented kids off of the Naughty List, and his sister, so they can head to the North Pole and steal the presents they deserve. Which is a plot that really is off the beaten path when it comes to holiday films. After all, we rarely see anyone embrace the concept of being on the Naughty List in these tales, not to mention… we don’t see anyone ever give so little care to the meaning of that list… that they feel the need to just rob Santa. But this is a concept that works well for several reasons. In part, because it leads to a big adventure, one that is fun and lighthearted and quite frankly, features some stunning visuals and memorable moments. Giving rise to the reality that if by chance the character isn’t grounded in pure evil and is perhaps misguided… such a plot can work and provide viewers with something different. But of course, there are other reasons why this particular film is so appealing and that relates to the messaging present within it. Because while this holiday film does indeed feature a unique and refreshing core concept, it is at heart… a holiday film. One that takes the time to explore more than just how entertaining it would be to see people assemble a heist again Old Saint Nick. For it does examine, what is it that drives Andy to act in this manner, and those consequences, and of course… it ponders deeply upon how people grow and make better choices than the ones we see here. Giving rise to a highly intelligent film as well that uses subtle commentary and gentle moments to teach us a solid holiday lesson, rather than just making it known loudly as so many other holiday films do. Giving rise to a delightful feature that still does the genre proud by offering great lessons regarding what it means to be better and what we really should cherish during the season. If anything, all of these elements bring forth what could be considered, a flawless hybrid holiday film. One that injects a little everyday Hollywood into the genre by way of that Ocean’s Eleven feel but makes sure to never let go of what makes the holiday feature so beloved and so great. Which is a testament to Director Alberto Belli’s work, since he is the one responsible for blending all these concepts and big moments together, and he brought out the best in the cast as well, who all turn in amazing performances and sell the wonder of the dynamic holiday feature. One that is essential viewing for certain, because you can never go wrong with a holiday film that breaks new ground while still offering up everything, we love about this tried-and-true genre about a magical time of year. ‘The Naughty Nine’ makes its debut on the Disney Channel, at 8 p.m. EST tonight, and will be streaming on Disney+ on Thanksgiving Day. Written by John Edward Betancourt It is definitely safe to say that comedy film features have undergone quite the transformation over the past few years. For they are… more endearing than they used to be. In that, they tend to feature a detailed plot now. The kind that harbors a deeper message and some lessons, and they also tend to be a little more grounded in reality than we’ve seen in the past. Which isn’t a terrible thing by any means, since stories evolve and go with the times, and right now… that is what people want. But it is something of an outright shock to people that grew up on comedies that were so vastly different in design and structure. In fact, it wasn’t that long ago that comedies were quite wild and worked hard to really offer up some crazy laughter, and if you go further back, they were experimental and bold. Simply because there was a desire to see how far the humor envelope could be pushed. If anything, the dynamic shift in how comedies are made does beg quite the unique question. In that, is it possible in this day and age of kinder, gentler, comedies, to offer up something bold and experimental and in some cases crude? Well as it turns out, there are indeed some creatives eager to that answer that question with a resounding yes, and it just so happens that a dark and bold comedy of note, recently screened at the Austin Film Festival, and Don’t Tell Larry does indeed showcase how there is still room for this kind of comedy. A feat it accomplishes courtesy of its unique plot. One that introduces us to a hyper ambitious woman named Susan who is on the cusp of having everything she wants. For she is days away from her boss’ retirement and Bruce has made it clear, she’s next in line to take over as CEO of the company. But the arrival of a very weird man named Larry, puts her world into pure chaos. For Bruce reveals that Larry is in fact his long-lost son, and he plans to hand the company over to his baby boy instead of Susan. Which prompts Susan to try and turn Larry against his dad, with disastrous results. For Bruce dies under odd circumstances and soon, other horrible occurrences pop up around the office. Leaving Susan to wonder if she has in fact, unleashed a monster, and now it will be up to Susan and her good friend Patrick to determine if Larry is indeed a stone-cold killer and if so… how to stop him. Which is a plot that really is old school in every sense of the phrase. For it is bleak, angry, and filled to the brim with nasty acts from people that have agendas galore, and it is handled with the twisted humor we found in these types of features back in the day, and it works. For several reasons. In large part, because the story understands what it wants to accomplish. It wants to be that throwback; it wants to push the envelope and being honest in that manner means there’s no gimmicks to be found here. Just raw and twisted comedy, the kind that features some outlandish and delightful jokes… that work. Because every joke, every gag fits the situation perfectly and they produce laughs that are hearty in all the right ways, giving rise to a delightfully demented black comedy that is genuinely enjoyable. Yet, there are more reasons as to why this film works so well, and that also lies within the script. For the film’s writers and directors, Greg Porper and John Schimke have in essence blended together what makes comedies work now with the bold nature of what they used to be. Courtesy of characters that are indeed sour in nature and self-serving. Making what we watch cathartic in nature since bad things surround what some could consider to be, bad people. Giving rise to a real sense of karma for these characters and that’s something we all want for the bad people of the world now, that sense of universal justice for their disposition, and when you take that and combine it with elements/commentary regarding the modern corporate work structure, you’re given an inadvertently deeper film than expected, one that resonates in all the right ways. But that’s the beauty of this feature. In that, one doesn’t have to think too deeply about the commentary to enjoy it. Because the jokes still work regardless, and the twisted and fun nature of the film doesn’t depend upon it to tell its story. But what matters most, is that this movie really is the old-school throwback that some crave, and perhaps this movie will serve a bold new look at the future. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this movie is filled to the brim with acting and comedy legends. Since you’ll find Ed Begley Jr. here as Bruce, and even Dot-Marie Jones and Tina Parker pop up in some impactful and amazing roles. And they are all complimented nicely by the lead trio, consisting of Patty Guggenheim (Susan), Kenneth Mosley (Patrick), and Kiel Kennedy (Larry). Which makes this, a perfect comedy when all is said and done, one that really is quite the delight and a reminder that comedy doesn’t have to follow a structure or a formula, it just has to at its core… find a way to be uniquely funny. Written by John Edward Betancourt If there is one thing, we can all agree upon right now, it is that the world is a very divided place. After all, there are countries fighting at this very moment, and they’re battling over territories in the name of ego and legacy and because they believe one side’s view is the only correct one. Not to mention, here in the United States, there are few who are united. For politically, so many have retreated behind party lines, and generationally speaking, the old guard refuses to let the new guard take over and guide the future of the country based upon the belief that outdated ideologies should win the day. If anything, it’s just safe to say the world is a mess and there appears to be no relief or end in sight. Which does beg some important questions, the kind that we have asked for ages on end. In that, how have we reached this particular point of divide and what would it take to stop it? Because we’re all so, very, very tired of the fighting, and we’re all ready to see the world move forward in some manner. Yet we continue to be stuck and continue to battle it out over silly things. But slowly and surely, we are indeed garnering some understanding of how we move forward and how perhaps we find peace and as is often the case, storytelling is leading the way. Because stories are the safe place where bold ideas can be conjectured and where obvious and simple paths can be forged, and recently a film that features that kind of logic and some solid ideas on how we stop the nonsense and unify, screened at the Austin Film Festival, and that makes The Problem with People, quite the important motion picture. One that offers up observations and lessons through a supremely beautiful and comedic story. One that plunges us into the midst of a unique moment for the Gorman family in Ireland. For Ciáran’s father believes the end of his life is near, and his dying wish, is that he wants his son’s help in fixing a longstanding feud within the family. For long ago, two Gorman brothers parted ways in a sour manner. Giving rise to two family lines and regret. Regret that there was no unity, and no reconciliation, and now, the hope is that Ciáran can entice Barry Gorman to swing by Ireland to repair the damage and forge a new path. A request that does bring forth great joy when Barry agrees. But when Ciáran’s dad decides that a bold move is in order to properly heal the family line, one that will impact Ciáran’s livelihood… things quickly change and the feud… finds new life for a new generation. Leaving these distant cousins to wonder, can there be peace within the family line? Which at first glance is a plot that seemingly looks less at how we heal our ailing world and instead provides us with hard observations on the problem at hand. But truly, we need to see the problem up close and person to understand it, and the genesis of this new chapter in the feud, does just that, and allows for the core mission of this film to come to fruition. Because it allows for us to understand that too much of what we fight over, is grounded in simple and stupid stuff. Stuff that quite frankly, we could overcome if we put ego to the wayside for just a moment and listened to one another, and actually used our words to communicate in an honest manner. Giving rise to a powerful story about how much time we’ve wasted as a species worrying about who is right, who is wrong and who is superior and that does indeed lead to some fine musings on how this happens, and how we fix it. But of course, there was mention of the fact that this is a comedic romp in nature, and it is important to spotlight that as well. Because that allows for the important lessons at hand to never be overwhelming or too powerful, and it also allows for a unique and human story to take place. One that explores the folly of our actions, and the wonder of who we are as a species. Allowing for hope to come into this tale, and for us to really look at some of our actions with a hilarious objectivity. The kind that definitely gives one pause and further hammers home the lessons in question. Because a lot of the funnier stuff here reflects how we do act, and how ridiculous we can be at times, and that is something worth lampooning. But above all, the comedy just works here, and the jokes are funny, and you will laugh aloud and that is often made possible by way of the cast. For this is a film that stars Paul Reiser (Barry), Colm Meaney (Ciáran), and Jane Levy (Natalya), and they are all masters of their craft and masters of comedy as well. And their work here really sells the wonder of the joke and the wonder of the moment. All of which brings forth, a beautiful and poignant film. One that really explores in great detail how easily we could step away from our sour nature and embrace our better angels but is honest in telling us… how hard that will be…. because we’ve never really tried. But if we did, if we genuinely did, wonders would indeed be accomplished, and at long last… we could see the world in a whole new light and find a unique understanding of our place in the universe, all while sharing a pint with the beautiful people that surround us. Written by John Edward Betancourt The science fiction feature has gone through some incredible changes throughout its illustrious history. For its humble beginnings were nothing short of curiosity about what could be and what man could achieve, since they pondered upon our future amongst the stars and what that might look like. And that gave way to stories that reflected the wonder of the atomic age, and the possible horrors and wonders that could come from that, in the most fun ways imaginable, before a titanic shift took place in the genre. Wherein, those early musings and the realities of science combined to bring about new and epic stories. The kind that now offered a realistic look at our future amongst the stars, and our role in shaping the future of the galaxy, and that made science fiction quite serious. In fact, there was a period of time where the genuinely light-hearted nature of the genre all but disappeared. But eventually, it returned in new forms and science fiction now works to offer balance to pay respect to its past while looking toward our future. But there are some creatives out there… who want more from the genre and believe that it is at a point where it can go back to its wackier roots and inject a real sense fun into the genre once again, and it just so happens that a film in that vein recently screened at the Austin Film Festival. For Invaders from Proxima B really is that classic throwback feature, that harkens back to the goofier era of the genre, courtesy of a magnificently fun plot. For this particular tale introduces us to the Jankins family, who are doing their best to get by and carve out their own slice of joy in the world, but that isn’t always an easy task. For Howie, the father of the family, works on the road often to keep his family afloat and longs for more time at home but isn’t sure how to get it. For he knows his daughter, Ruby, won’t be small forever and soon memories will be hard to make. Not to mention, he needs more time around his wife, Jane, but alas… this is life for them. And the world really doesn’t seem willing to give them a break and help them find direction to have what they want and need. But the universe, well it sometimes steps in to help and it brings opportunity in the form of a wild and sassy alien named Chuck. Who has come to Earth on quite the mission, one that he needs help with via the Jankins, and one so important, it will offer them the positive change they seek, should they choose to help him. Which really is… an old school sci-fi plot. For there was an era, mostly the 80s and 90s, where aliens were sassy and silly and came to Earth to just let loose and have fun. Which offered up mixed results to say the least, but good or bad, those films were indeed memorable for offering something different than grandiose voyages through the stars, but they truly did disappear from the landscape. But writer/director/star Ward Roberts obviously wanted to change that and what he has brought to life, is quite delightful in nature. Because he has successfully resurrected those memorable films but avoided the pratfalls’ they encountered to bring forth a magnificently fun sci-fi feature. One grounded in adventure and filled to the brim with delightful and dynamic characters. In fact, it is the characters and their journeys that really allow for this film to shine. Because it makes all of them relatable and important to us. To the point where we want to see Howie and his family find what they want, and even the supporting characters they encounter, have amazing depth and desires. Which just adds wonderful layers to this film, and the heart that it requires to be successful. In fact, it is the underlying commentary about family life and love that really makes this movie quite magical. Because it has a lot to say about making sure we prioritize what matters most in this life, and that we should go the extra mile to have it and be near it. Especially when it comes to family and the people we love. Since they are a true gift that we must cherish dearly since life is so short, and so precious. But while it is nice to enjoy a touch of nostalgia and some heartwarming lessons, make no mistake about it… this is a comedy at heart. After all, the alien in question is named Chuck, and he’s sassy and he’s hilarious. And the shenanigans that he gets himself and this family into are just a real treat, and the jokes that come forth during those shenanigans work and absolutely leave you laughing aloud, and well, all of these elements make for a movie that you absolutely need to see. Simply because it’s a lot of fun, and it’s full of laughs and silly moments, and some great messages about the wonder of the world, and that really is a wonderful thing. Because this movie is exactly what an angry and divided world needs right now. Written by John Edward Betancourt We are taught to believe from a supremely young age, that the holiday season is truly a magical time. A time when everything is just better and wholesome, simply because this is when humanity puts its differences aside and embraces unity and forgiveness. Something that is backed up by the joy of the season and the wonder and majesty of its bright lights and warm drinks and saccharine songs, and the happiness we feel in our hearts. Which can be so strong, that it does bring out great traits in us. To the point where we also follow the mantra of the season and give a little more, and well… that feeling is so powerful, that it leaves us wondering, after the season, exactly why such goodwill doesn’t last beyond the 25th of December and empower the world to be better. But that’s the thing. It doesn’t last because what we believe … is a construct. A fantasy world that helps us escape the realities of the world for a little while to clear our heads, which allows for us to unfortunately forget, that the world doesn’t stop turning while Santa checks his list twice. Real problems persist, real struggles take place and that is something we need to talk about more often. Because to do so, would allow for us to appreciate the season differently and offer the right kind of gifts to those in need. But thankfully there are people out there now, looking to change the narrative regarding the season, and we are seeing creatives lead the charge in such matters. And it just so happens that a film that recently screened at the Austin Film Festival, from writer/director Heath Davis, offers that objective look at the season, and that makes Christmess, quite the important watch. For this is a story that introduces us to a now-former star named Chris Flint who is at quite a crossroads in his life, in the middle of the holiday season. For Chris just received his release from rehab and now he is tasked with starting over in life. A mission that seems impossible in many ways. In part because, everyone expects him to be so cheery and thankfully during the season. But Chris lost everything during his alcohol and drug fueled downward spiral and living in a halfway house with a couple of other people named Nick and Joy when he used to enjoy penthouse suites, is quite the adjustment for him. But it is the right one, because Nick and Joy offer him support and care and they go the extra mile to help him begin to rebuild his life and inadvertently help him find focus. For his decision to take a job as a Rent-A-Santa for the season, will reconnect Chris with an important person from his past that he needs to reconcile with, and he knows doing so… will give him the clarity and strength he needs to leave his addiction behind, and the peace he so desperately needs. Which is a plot, that is unlike any other holiday story out there. But it is grounded in reality. Because Chris’ struggles here, happen every holiday season. They’re just ignored and forgotten by the Christmas cheer that everyone is expected to take part in, but not everyone can. Because they’re grieving the loss of a loved one or because they’re in recovery and fighting to stay on the narrow path and get better. Which brings forth some powerful and visceral moments in this story. The kind that really showcase the true realities of the season and how hard it is for people in Chris’ shoes to recover at a time when everyone thinks you can just pick yourself up and smile with glee because soon presents from Santa will be under the Christmas tree. But the wonder of this story doesn’t end by simply removing the sweet stigma of the season, it also presents to us… a powerful journey for Chris. One that showcases the ravages of addiction and what it can do to people and how hard it is for someone to leave the substances they love behind in the early days of their recovery. Because addiction is a genuine monster, one that requires so much work beyond twelve steps, and this movie deserves a hard round of applause for showcasing that reality and for also… offering us some good vibes in this tale as well. For this is a story that could have gone down a dark and bleak path from beginning to end, but instead… opts to really look at the meaning of the holiday season in a different light, and how we find hope within it when we’re clawing our way back to the top. All by reminding us of the fact… that the real meaning of the Holiday season isn’t the gifts we give but celebrating the gifts we’ve been given. Such as being granted a second chance when we’ve made mistakes and being surrounded by wondrous people that help us heal, and it is those gifts that provide the hope in question. Since they lift us up and help us believe we can do anything and all of those elements, bring forth a beautiful and powerful film. One that truly examines the wonder and the folly of our humanity and how every bit of it is special in its own way. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the movie features some phenomenal performances to compliment fine writing, that offers magnificent clarity and honesty about a season we sometimes cherish for the wrong reasons, and what we lose sight of in doing so. Written by John Edward Betancourt This piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist. It is definitely safe to say that holiday films offer up some familiar formulas and concepts and it makes sense as to why. After all, the season is about birth and rebirth, and merriment and harmony and goodwill. So, it stands to reason that stories about forgiveness against those that have wronged us, or forgiveness for ourselves would resonate with us. And the same goes for stories that feature reflecting upon a better future and a better tomorrow, since it is also a season where we take inventory regarding our direction in life and where we should be headed. So, those stories stick with what they know, and we stick with them because those are good concepts to explore, and they do indeed bring us clarity and joy. But as the demand for more holiday themed content continues to grow and more studios and networks begin to offer it, something special is happening with these films. In that, they are beginning to branch out and offer up new stories and new concepts to ponder upon. The kind that showcases how the season is so much more than those baseline concepts, and can also teach us valuable lessons about life, and it just so happens that a holiday feature from Build-A-Bear Entertainment is now in theaters, that offers that more unique examination of the holiday season in Glisten and the Merry Mission. A feat that this film accomplishes, by introducing us to a very different type of North Pole than what we normally see in film. For this North Pole, is more than just toy workshops and elves coming to and fro, it is in fact, a thriving community. Where elves live as the rest of us do and see ups and downs and do their best to get through hardships. Which is the case with Cinnameg, a single mother who is doing her best to raise her daughter Marzipan after they lost their father and it would seem that CInnameg’s new position at the Workshop will help with that. Since she is now second in command of making sure that all the toys are made and ready for Christmas Day. But… there’s just one problem. No one but her seems to notice that not enough toys are being made for the big day, and there’s a real chance that Christmas could be ruined if a sense of urgency doesn’t come to the workshop soon. A reality that stresses Cinnameg to no end and pushes Marzipan to do whatever must be done to save this big day. Even if that means risking life and limb to bring legends and outcasts into the fold. Which as you can see, is a revolutionary plot for a holiday feature. Granted, there are some familiar elements, but featuring a single mom and featuring panic and worry and scrambling to have a great holiday season… are very human elements and experiences. Which we don’t see often in holiday films, but it really works here and makes the story accessible and relatable, and it does feature some very refreshing concepts as well. Since this story focuses less on self-forgiveness or focusing on healing from the past and more on… what we can do now in our community to make a difference as it struggles. For all of our communities need something to thrive, and this movie points out that one way to do that… is to put ego aside and come together as one to accomplish a collective miracle for the season, and that’s a nice message to see in these trying and divided times. Yet what’s amazing, is that this story has more amazing concepts to explore regarding the human condition and things we should actively be doing to try and make the world a better place. Such as offering people that have made mistakes, second chances and approaching new people when we meet them, without judgment. Because that problem is present here in some unique ways and creates more problems than anyone’s time is worth at the North Pole. Plus, let’s be honest… we take part in such close-minded behaviors as well… and we shouldn’t. Because we’re all in this life together, and we don’t have all the answers and will make mistakes, and denying people agency when they’ve stumbled or shunning them because they had a bad day, accomplishes nothing. And those lessons really do give rise to a new type of holiday story, one that very well could be the blueprint the future for the genre. But of course, all lessons aside, what every parent really wants to know, is whether or not the movie is entertaining and fun as well, and the answer to that question… is a resounding yes. For this is an animated feature filled with comedy, and big adventures and beautiful visuals that captivate. Plus, it boats an all-star cast that includes Freddie Prinze Jr., Billy Ray Cyrus, Michael Rapaport, Dionne Warwick, Leona Lewis, and Chevy Chase, and they bring a wonderful zest and zeal to their roles that only immerses the audience further in a wonderful holiday story. One that offers thoughtful concepts and wholesome entertainment and the good news, is you can see this movie now in theaters and you should. Because you really cannot go wrong with enjoying a holiday movie that brings forth fresh ideas, and warm-hearted moments that stay with you long after the adventure has come to an end. Written by John Edward Betancourt Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Short Film, ‘Candice’. It is definitely safe to say that we are taught some fascinating lessons about our emotions when we are growing up. In that, they should be expressed differently depending upon the gender that one identifies as. For instance, anyone who identifies as a woman is cleared to be emotional, but not too emotional, because that’s not attractive and annoying. Whereas those who identify as men… should express no emotion at all. Because they are the rocks and foundation of the world, and to do so… would show weakness and be embarrassing in nature and sadly… people abide by those lessons to a tee. Only to learn at certain points in adulthood, that such lessons are problematic. Because our emotions aren’t something that can be bottled up, for that is unhealthy in nature. Since it can create toxic behaviors and explosions of anger. The kind that are ugly in nature, and sometimes bring forth abuse and a strange desire to push people away. Yet, despite seeing the damage bottling up our feelings can do and learning that firsthand… we as a society continue to teach those woefully stupid and outdated lessons. As though somehow, some way, the problem will fix itself and that is simply not the case. For we must be in touch with our emotions to really enact change in our lives and change in our world and that reality/truth is top of mind today, simply because it is explored in great detail in a short film from writer/director Tyler Martin, that recently screened at the Austin Film Festival. For Candice is a story that introduces us to a man named Danny, who seems to be dealing with something equally as important as one’s emotions, his sexuality. For he has hired Jonah, a man who specializes in physical comfort for an hour of time in his home and well… that’s where this film takes us on quite the journey. For it turns out, Danny isn’t eager to explore whether or not he’s attracted to men, he needs to feel. He needs to know what it means to cry and reconcile pain from his past, and Jonah is here to help him find those things. Simply because Danny believes there has to be more in this life than just existing and driving forward, especially when he realizes that he has pushed his beloved Candice away because of his icy nature, and knows now, he must take a different path. Which is a plot that breaks down so many barriers. First and foremost, by outright doing something that is rarely seen on the silver or small screen, if at all. Specifically, seeing two adults who identify as males… have physical contact that is non-sexual in nature in an intimate setting. Which is an act that is genuinely taboo in this life, and in entertainment, since it is considered socially to be unfathomable that males can touch other males without any sexual desire or act being involved, if they’re lying in bed together and close to one another. But that happens here and its powerful and incredible and it goes one step further, by having Danny and Jonah talk about emotions and feelings and how the world asks males to keep them bottled up for the dumbest of reasons. That in turn, allows for a magnificent and moving series of moments to take place, that revolve around the power of releasing our emotions, of being honest and raw about them be them good or bad. Because there’s freedom to be found in that, and freedom to be found in confronting the traumas we’ve experienced, and the pain we’ve felt and the joy we find as well. All of which makes it clear, that denying ourselves those feelings and the honesty they require, denies us life. Denies us the wonder of the human condition and the beauty and bittersweet nature of the gift of life we’ve been given. All of which brings forth, an utterly brilliant short film. One that is groundbreaking and poignant. Since there is steam gaining on such topics. Yet, the brilliance of this film doesn’t end with its subject matter. For the acting is simply top notch, with writer/director Tyler Martin offering up a visceral humanity to Danny that moves you and has you rooting for him to open up and heal, and David Gow is just as electric as Jonah, as this guide that opens Danny’s eyes to so much more about the world. And of course, we’d be foolish to not talk about the wonder of the setting of the film, for it is as intimate as the moments we share in, and that is undoubtedly intentional and symbolic. As though being in the confined space of an RV informs us that there is no escaping our emotions and to face them accordingly and well, in the end, this really is quite the incredible short film. One that hopefully inspires the entire market to finally lean into the truth that no one wants to hear. In that, it’s okay to feel, and we should feel, for it is the only way to be truly free in this life. |
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May 2024
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