If there one particular flaw that exists in the current world of true-crime documentaries, it would have to be… there’s a lack of balance. To which, there is good reason for that. Because the individuals that are ready to put together a story of murder and mayhem or whatever crime was committed know that the audience wants to be taken on a journey. One that is compelling and powerful and informative. So, a vast majority of them, focus on the crime at hand and how it played out while examining the ugly and twisted psyche of those who committed such atrocious acts. Which does indeed offer up what the audience wants, but really only looks at the core aspects alone. When in fact, there is more to explore, more we NEED to explore.
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Because the fact of the matter is… crime in any capacity has a grave impact upon the lives of those involved and we truly need to see more of that. So, we understand the bigger picture and understand the impact of crime so that perhaps… we can begin to impact change regarding it. Thankfully, as peak television continues to rule the day and audiences are demanding more content, that is oddly creating a shift in how true-crime documentaries are told. For now, the folks behind it are working to try and find balance and offer a compelling story that explores the impact of what happened and for proof that this is possible and that this shift is underway, look no further than a new true crime documentary that debuts on Peacock today, Pathological: The Lies of Joran van der Sloot.

Which is a documentary that chronicles the horrors that Joran van der Sloot imparted upon a pair of families over the past couple of decades. Since Joran was the man responsible for taking the lives of Natalle Holloway and Stephany Flores, and well… that allows for this documentary to offer up what is perhaps, the definitive exploration of a crime spree that began in 2005 and ended late last year with a long-awaited confession from Joran. A storytelling decision that truly does offer up a compelling and powerful exploration of how and why these crimes occurred, and what drove Joran to do them, and the state of mind necessary to make that happen. But truly, where this documentary shines… is in the impact it explores.

Because this is that rare documentary that doesn’t rush through each moment and doesn’t rush through each crime. It presents a critical area in the case and dives into the impact of that area in a far deeper manner than most documentaries do. By offering up a battery of reactions from those who covered it, were involved in it, and they speak in a manner so raw and so powerful… you truly understand the harm that Joran created, and truly understand how life-changing his decisions were upon the two families. Not to mention, we get special insight from some of the folks that interacted with him, to truly garner a powerful psychological profile of a man… that infuriates the viewer through and through.

Simply because… we also come to learn how much Joran relies and has relied upon charm to get through life, and how he suckers people with it. Giving rise to a profile and an ending that isn’t rosy or pretty… just grounded in the facts and the flaws of our world. Which makes for an emotional and balanced experience. One that is supremely educational since you learn all there is to know about the case, but you’re also deeply moved in every sense of the phrase. Because this is that documentary that has it all, and really is essential viewing when all is said and done.

For Joran’s story, and the horror he imparted upon others… speaks to real problems in our world regarding toxic masculinity, and how we give charm too much credit. But most important of all, it tells the story of two families deeply damaged by one man’s poor and cruel decisions, and the sour feelings we are left with, is the key. Because that’s what we need more of in this world right now, empathy, and it is wonderful that this documentary offers that alongside the facts regarding a cold and remorseless murderer that thrives in the world of pathological lies.

Watch ‘Pathological: The Lies of Joran van der Sloot’ on Peacock now.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Sense and Sensibility’.
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One particular type of story that can immediately bring about anxiety for an audience, is the adaptation of a timeless and classic story, and that anxiety exists… because that type of tale has brought forth sorrow before. Because unfortunately, not every adaptation of a classic hits the mark. For sometimes, the creatives behind it, try to reinvent the classic and put some twists into it that just don’t work, giving rise to a story that almost mocks the source material. Not to mention, sometimes… the adaptation in question, is a touch lifeless, and a by-the-numbers re-telling of a story that offers so much more than a collection of moments.  

All of which, makes us nervous about future adaptations. Because we want to see the story be given the proper respect it truly deserves. Thankfully though, our anxiety is sometimes assuaged when it comes to this type of story. Because not all adaptations are created equally, and there is something to be said about the ones that are faithful and passionate and capture the zeitgeist of the story. And the same goes for adaptations that not only pay tribute, but spotlight aspects of the story that haven’t been highlighted before, and perhaps… find a way to bring the story into modern times in a brilliant manner. If anything, our concerns about the quality of adaptations of classics and the need to celebrate the goods ones is top of mind today, simply because the Hallmark Channel is now home to one, that does a true classic, true justice.

For last night saw the debut of Sense and Sensibility, and well… let’s be honest. At first glance, knowing that you’re settling in for another take on Jane Austen’s timeless and classic story is the kind of thing to give one anxiety. For we’ve seen both sides of the coin when it comes to adaptations of this story, and immediately one must worry that what awaits, is a visually appealing but unremarkable adaptation of a book that has so much to it. But it does not take long for anyone that tunes in, to realize that this iteration of the story… offers an audience so much more. Thanks in large part to the fact that it is a trim and fast-paced iteration of the story. One that yes, follows the classic, but moves at a brisk pace that trims of some of the slower moments of the story, and with good reason.

Because in doing so, the story can instead focus upon… the elements of this story that are timeless and sadly relevant in 2024. Such as how men with money ruled the world then and rule the world now and at the advice of fools, mire others in struggle because of it. Not to mention, this particular version of the story showcases how… we’ve only made baby steps when it comes to women’s rights. For we get great focus on how the Dashwood women are pushed to be seen and never heard, despite having wants and desires that anyone else has in life, in a manner that feels a little too right now. Giving rise to real commentary on the need for equality, and the backwards views that are still prevalent in our world. Which yes, is something that was present in the book from day one, but has proper focus in this story, and the wonder of this adaptation doesn’t end there.
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For this is also a story, that does something very bold and very welcome. In that, the Dashwood women are in fact, Black. As is the majority of the main cast. A move that some will immediately deride and say doesn’t belong in the framework of any adaptation of this book, but those voices need to be ignored. Because going this route, updates the story like never before. Because it adds brilliant representation to a story that in the past, has featured little of that on the silver and small screen. Allowing for this story take on new life, for a new generation. Who can now see themselves in a story that all regard as a powerhouse tale about love, family, and our wants in life, and feel as though they are part of the story, feel as though their concerns in those arenas are real and recognized.

All of which makes, for one of the best adaptations of this story to date. Simply because, the fast-paced nature of the story, makes it accessible to all, and its focus on the central themes should start important conversations, and at long last… this is now a story for everyone. For now, it represents the world and not just one corner of history, and yet, there’s still more to praise when it comes to this refreshing journey. Since it also… is a feast for the eyes visually, with costumes and settings that simply pop off of the screen, and the performances here… are utterly sublime. Which makes this, an absolute must watch. Simply because, this is a revolutionary adaptation of revolutionary work, and we should genuinely celebrate it by experiencing its wonder.

Caution: This review contains minor spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Seagrass’.
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One thing that we can all agree upon, is that we as a society, are at a crossroads of sorts. Where we are eager to understand why the world is the way that it is. For it is an angry place, one where people have no qualms expressing it anymore, and it is also a place that seems lost, and without direction at times. As though we are stuck in this strange cycle from which there is no escape, but the world wants off that ride. It wants to know how, do we stop being angry, how do we start getting better and how do we find purpose as a species and well… that’s leading to some serious surprises for all of us.

For we are now making breakthroughs regarding mental health and how our behaviors are made, and what those breakthroughs are uncovering, really is shocking. In that… our world is mired in toxic behaviors. The kind that are learned through what is now known as generational trauma, and through outdated and outmoded societal standards that need to change. Not to mention, we are quickly learning how much our emotions dictate our choices and decisions, based upon critical memories and moments that we didn’t think had an impact upon us. Which is a lot to process when all is said and done, to the point where we’ve yet to really start to pinpoint how all of this comes to life and how perhaps we break through it all.

But thankfully, there are some creative minds out there connecting the dots, and they’re creating works that not only entertain, but educate and guide us and it just so happens, that a new film explores the source and its impact, and how we break free, in Seagrass. Which are feats that this film accomplishes by taking us on a powerful journey with a broken family. For Judith, the matriarch of this family, is struggling with grief and a lack of happiness in her marriage to her husband Steve. So, she has brought Steve, and her two daughters, Stephanie, and Emmy, along to a family retreat. Where the plan is to heal and find common ground between mom and dad. But alas, this retreat will be anything but easy. For soon, Judith’s eyes will be opened to realities she never thought possible and that will change the landscape of her family, forever.

Which really is… the perfect plot in which to explore how we’ve reached the point that we have as a society. Since Judith is so many of us. Since we come to learn that she is someone that has experienced trauma and was told to push forward. And isn’t sure if her life is where she wants it to be but was told… to push forward. Giving rise to an understanding that much of our toxic behaviors stem from expectations of the world because we don’t cherish mental health care and believe that forging ahead and immersion fixes our concerns. When in fact, we hurt, and we don’t feel fulfilled and that brings us to places of anger, places where we lash out in frustration and our children see this and believe it is okay, since mom and dad are trusted. So, they express it, and they push it forward and just like that… we are indeed caught in a horrible cycle that never seems to end.
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But it can, for the film also explores how… we must confront our pain, must confront what is bothering us because to not do so, creates the torturous nature that we’ve seen parents and other loved ones indulge in. But if we do the right thing, and go after those problems, there’s a real chance we can be free, we can find agency and break the cycle and forge a new path that brings fulfillment. All of which makes, for a powerful motion picture when all is said and done. Because it covers all of those musings, and so much more over the course of two hours. Giving the viewer so much to chew upon when the story has come to its end, and well… that’s a wonderful thing. Because these are topics we need to look at, and we need to expose the sources of our problems so we can understand their impact and begin to overcome them.

So, we can change, can be better people who inspire a better world, and the wonder of this film doesn’t end with its messaging. Because the story also feels timeless and painfully relatable thanks to its setting and its incredible direction and acting. For everyone in this story from an acting standpoint delivers shockingly real performances, and we truly feel as though we are nothing more than silent observers, at this retreat and are privy to one painful journey. The kind our own family members have been through, that we’ve been through or will go through and that makes this motion picture, important, and necessary viewing. Because it captures life so well, and all of the struggles and hopes that we share in.

‘Seagrass’ will enjoy a North American Theater Tour starting tomorrow, here is additional information on where you can see this important feature:

LOS ANGELES
Laemmle Royal, 11523 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, California
Starting Thursday, February 22nd at 7:30 pm
Q&A with star and executive producer Ally Maki
Tickets & More Information

Laemmle Town Centre 5 17200 Ventura Blvd UNIT 121, Encino, CA
Starting on Friday, February 23rd

NEW YORK
The Roxy Cinema  2 6th Avenue, Cellar Level, New York, NY
Starting on Thursday, February 22nd at 7:45 pm with a Q&A
Q&A with writer/director Meredith Hama-Brown & Cinematographer Norm Li
Tickets & More Information  

Regal Union Square 850 Broadway, New York, NY 
Starting on Friday, February 23rd with a Q&A
Q&A with writer/director Meredith Hama-Brown & Cinematographer Norm Li
Tickets & More Information

LAS VEGAS
Regal Aliante Theatre, Las Vegas 
Starting on Friday, February 23rd 
Q&A with star Chris Pang

One particular corner of the human experience that is explored often in storytelling, is our youth, and rightfully so. Simply because, childhood and our teenage years are supremely important for certain. For this is when powerfully formative moments take place for us, and showcasing those moments in cinema, or on television or in print… helps us to understand the impact of moments that were just another day to us back then, and help us to reflect upon how they brought us to the point we are currently at, and how we can change accordingly if we’re not happy with the end result. Not to mention… for those still in the midst of their youth, seeing some of those moments in those mediums, helps them to process big moments or recognize their arrival.
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But while that has brought forth a plethora of stories that offer nostalgia and lessons and guidance for some… there is something critical that few of those stories tap into that honestly, they should. In that, so few of them… really capture the vibe of being young. For it is a very strange time in our lives as well, for we are barreling toward adulthood and trying to process so much. Which makes our youth a surreal and confusing experience at times, and that should be expressed in these mediums as well. Thankfully, it just so happens that a new film offers up a story that explores our youth and critical formative moments in a manner that expresses how it actually feels to go through it… in Last Party.

A feat that this film accomplishes by plunging us into an important night for four former high school students. For they have graduated at last from a critical period in our lives, and to celebrate, all gather at a party. One that is filled to the brim with good music from a live deejay, and drinks and the usual stuff we see at a party. But instead of reflecting deeply upon their four-year experience, each of these teens on the cusp of adulthood… go through some fascinating interpersonal experiences. The kind that are scary, sexual, and unnerving, and as the night goes on… they try to process what those experiences mean to them as they come to realize they are at the end of one important chapter in their lives and are about to embark on a long and winding new one.

Which really is… the perfect way to explore the surreal nature of this transitional period in our lives. For we are told the instant we get our diploma, we’re adults now, and we must either head to college and further our education or get out into the world and work and pay rent, which is due on the first of the month. Which is a lot to process. Since we are but hours before (or after) graduation and are still thinking about having a good time and partying with our friends and well… that confusion is something that this film encapsulates perfectly. Since we see everyone try to sort out this transition to adulthood through their experiences in ways that are supremely unique. Giving rise to some powerful moments of growth and inflection for the audience.
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But where this film truly shines… is how it recreates the emotions and the vibe of those moments. Because this transition period is, and will forever be, a surreal experience. One that is distracting and confusing and at times… almost ethereal. As though deep down we know that change is happening at a rapid pace and nothing will ever be the same, but there is nothing to do about it but forge ahead into adulthood and see what lies ahead. And this film really captures those feelings to a tee, and really expresses them in a manner that we could not express back then, and perhaps struggle to do so now. Which brings forth some fascinating visuals and moments that give us pause.

Of course, it is how that is done that also makes this feature special. Simply because the film’s director, Nicolas Dozol, uses different genre styles to express those moments. Which gives life to a film that peppers in the fear of horror and the beauty of romance and the gravitas of drama and comedy. All so that we are presented with a visceral experience. One that truly encapsulates the surreal nature of youth and our transition into adulthood in a manner rarely seen in film. All of which is captivating to see play out, courtesy of some fine performances and familiar moments that take us back to a simpler yet complex time. Where the world was our oyster and yet… we weren’t quite sure we were ready to go out and conquer it.
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‘Last Party’ is now playing at the Laemmle Monica Film Center from February 9 -16th in Santa Monica, for tickets, click here.