Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Movers Ultimate’.
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There was a time, where cinema was eager to explore the inner workings of genuinely blue-collar jobs… in a comical light of course. Because something about combining humor with jobs that can be taxing, made for engaging entertainment. To the point where the market was awash with films in this vein. Since Waiting… won everyone over with its inside look at the restaurant business and Employee of the Month gave us some fascinating insight on retail. Not to mention, even the software industry, which some could consider to be white collar… had its day in the sun via Office Space. But while those inside looks were indeed a draw, there was more to these movies than their exposé of jobs we aren’t familiar with.
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Because what really made these movies work and entertain and endear themselves to audiences everywhere… was the heart and humanity they exhibited. For these stories really dug deep into the plight of the American worker, and their hopes and dreams and desires in life. But just like that, those movies disappeared from the marketplace, replaced by something else… but they might just be making a comeback. For a brand-new movie from writer/director Ben Rood, entitled Movers Ultimate, explores the world that movers of furniture thrive within and well, that concept brings forth one fascinating and funny motion picture. One that flawlessly provides us with perspective on this kind of work, by plunging us into the middle of it.

A feat that this motion picture accomplishes by introducing us to a pair of guys named Chad and Ryan who work for the company that shares the namesake of the film, and when we catch up with them, here, they’re dealing with perhaps the worst job they’ve ever been assigned. Because not only was the estimate incorrect, and there’s more stuff than two men and a trainee can move, but they’re dealing with some life struggles as well. For Chad is a disgraced former firefighter trying to figure out a way forward at this point in his life, and Ryan… just doesn’t understand where his life is headed. Which makes for a tense day of work as this duo do their best to complete what appears to be an impossible job, while trying to get their lives together. 

Which is a plot that truly manages to bring that classic style of film back to life. Because we are genuinely immersed into this job and this world as we were back then and well, going that route allows for some fascinating moments to take place. The kind that informs us just how much tough stuff movers have to put up with in the name of customer service. Since their client, a divorcee named Meredith, keeps changing the terms of the move and demanding the world of them and that’s really where this movie shines from a comedic standpoint. Because that leads to all kinds of shenanigans and gags, so that these guys and their co-workers can cope with the horrible day in front of them and well, those moments absolutely put a smile upon your face and now and again, leave you gasping for air with the sheer hilarity that plays out.
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But truly the best aspect of this motion picture, is the heart present in this story. Because beyond the gags are a pair of characters that are going through some supremely relatable moments. Since so many of us have found ourselves removed from a job that we thought was our calling and struggle being away from it as Chad does here. Not to mention, Ryan’s struggle is familiar as well. Since we too have been in his shoes and felt lost in life and well, that’s the stuff that really draws you into this movie. Because you feel for these guys, and you know they want more. But in this moment, all they can do is outright survive, and that kind of raw honesty, just adds depth to this story. As does the realistic nature in which their problems are resolved. Since those solutions also reflect real life and the struggles we face.

If anything, all of these elements make for one heartwarming comedy. One that really does recapture the wonder of those classics, while adding a fresh spin on this sub-genre, courtesy of jokes that fit with the times and characters that reflect the current zeitgeist of the workforce. For Chad and Ryan have had it with awful bosses and stupid corporate nonsense and Karen-like behavior, just like the rest of us have. Not to mention, the performances here only enhance the experience, since the entire cast plays their roles with a wonderful honesty. But what matters most, is that you don’t have to wait a single moment to watch this entertaining ride, since Movers Ultimate is available to stream on demand, right now, and we certainly hope you give it a look. Because this one is just plain fun from beginning to end.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Camping Trip’.
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One thing that we can all agree upon, is that the past couple of years, taught us a great deal about ourselves. Because being locked away for a better part of a year, and then isolating heavily until a vaccine came forth… forced us to spend a lot of alone time. The kind that allowed for us to reflect and improve upon who we are. While helping us to perhaps understand what we want and what we need out of life. Because staring down a potentially crippling illness or even death, really does put life and our machinations within it, in perspective, and it is a fair to say a great deal of us came out of this mess, thankful for a second chance at life and ready to seize the day.
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But that is of course, a personal journey. One that doesn’t reflect the greater whole and well, we often hope that our lessons extend to others or are part of a collective journey, and that hope has left all of us wondering… has that been the case? Did the world learn from Covid and find new direction in doing so? Or was this just another inconvenience that people will quickly move on from? And it just so happens, that there is a brand-new thriller on the market that takes the time to examine that question, and that makes Camping Trip quite the fascinating motion picture. One that offers up some sobering commentary on our world and what did indeed come out of Covid, and it accomplishes that feat… by taking us back in time just a little bit. 

For in this motion picture, we are introduced to four friends at the end of the first lockdown, and they are beyond eager to see each other and enjoy life once again by going on a grand weekend camping trip. Where they can catch up, resume their unique polyamorous connections, and rejoice in the fact that the worst is behind them. But it doesn’t take long for this trip to take quite the turn. For a botched, backwoods deal near their camp, leads to the brutal murder of the money man, and now those responsible for that death, expect to be paid with the money that was hidden in the tent belonging to the group. Making this a weekend grounded in desperate survival when greed comes calling to their camp, one that will leave this group transformed in ways they never thought possible.

So, before we dig deep into the grit and grime of this movie, we need to make it clear… that this is a supremely bleak motion picture. One that is slow burning in nature so that it can properly explore the horrors that these close-knit friends experience in this story. Which means that this movie is going to make you uncomfortable often, but that is of course the point. However, not everyone is good with sitting through extreme dread and slow cooking terror, so, if you can live with that… you’re in for a treat. A brutal film that holds nothing back in its exploration of the darkest parts of humanity and how easily people slide into that and embrace it when the moment is right or when the opportunity presents itself.

But why do that? Why show us the worst of us in a story that is designed to answer the questions in question? Well at it turns out, the brutality of this story is the answer that we seek. For this movie postulates the theory, that we learned nothing from the pandemic. That it only taught a handful of people valuable lessons about life and its meaning and what’s important, while it instead struck fear into everyone else, leading to more strife and leading to more anger and fury and well… that’s some bleak commentary to find, the kind that is sadly backed up by the state of the world. Since we’ve seen some genuinely concerning moments play out after the timeline of this movie. But of course, not everyone will agree with that message or like the film’s ending.

For they genuinely believe we are better than this and can be better than this, but that’s what good a story does. It stirs a debate, and it asks us to really think upon the topic and that’s exactly what this motion picture does, in the most brutal fashion of course. For this is a story that really does put the horrors of mankind on display and is sharp in its analysis and opinion, and the best news of all… is that if you’re in the mood for a bleak and powerful story, one that definitely leaves you thinking long after its come to an end… then you can check out Camping Trip via Video on Demand right now and we here at NTG hope you do. Simply because this really is a bold and angry film, one that genuinely challenges each and every one of us.

We live in a fascinating time when it comes to love and romance. For gone are the days of going to the club or somewhere fun to find someone to date in our youth, and the same goes for having targeting spots to attempt to grab the attention of that potential partner when the party scene gets old. Instead, all of that has been replaced by the simplicity of technology. Wherein we can log into a particular app and meet someone that we find attractive in all arenas and see where it goes, and well… that fascinating feat has brought about a great deal of discussion and debate in our modern world. The kind that really has started to ponder upon the power of technology and whether or not it can accomplish the wonders we hope it will.
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Because there are so many people out there, who have serious concerns over using a device to create a connection. Since people can hide behind devices and create their own magical world and persona in doing so. Plus, those same folks have concerns as to whether or not the spark we all desire can actually be generated through a device and well, the horror stories we sometimes hear about online dating… more or less confirms some of those fears. But like it or not, technology and online dating are here to stay and there are enough happy stories about those experiences to balance out the concerns and well, as online dating and technology continue to grow in popularity, popular fiction is now starting to explore what love through a phone looks like, to help all of us understand this brave new world. And it just so happens that come Friday, Amazon Freevee will be host to one such story.

For the network’s first original film, Love Accidentally, will make its debut then and well, it is indeed a fascinating exploration of how love through a device can come to life, which this story brings forth by plunging us into some tough romantic times for a pair of work rivals. For in a single day, both Alexa and Jason are dumped by their partners, people they truly thought would be the one. And as they continue on without love in their life, an unexpected switcheroo of numbers when Alexa gets her work phone replaced… leads to a powerful and honest, and anonymous, conversation between the two of them. One that elicits feelings they’ve never had before for another person. The kind that could lead to happiness everlasting, provided of course they are actually willing to remove the specter of anonymity.

Which is a plot that not only explores the digital world of dating and love through technology to a tee, but it also addresses our concerns about it and why those concerns are unfounded in an intelligent manner. Because while it may seem awkward to watch Alexa and Jason, do their best to build a connection without ever knowing who is on the other end, seemingly proving the age-old point that digital dating is fantasy and they're indulging too deeply into it, their digital decisions are no different than what we do after a breakup or when we decide to try and get into the dating scene again. Because both digital daters and real-life ones test the waters and work to make new connections when they start over and they also keep people at bay to heal, and they hope with all their hearts that they've found true love when the butterflies arrive, like our forlorn lovers do here, and it is important to showcase that parallel for one reason and one reason alone.

Because as this romance progresses, it becomes clear that online dating or a romance through a conversation… is indeed as healthy and as impactful as dating in person. For it offers us a chance to really speak with someone on a fundamental level, free from expectations or outdated dating strategies and etiquette and just… feel a connection. Which is what we all want, and this type of dating allows for us to get right down to building that connection and really see where it goes and endure all of the pratfalls that we find in regular dating. Since both characters here risk hurt if they can’t move past their rivalry or their fears and concerns about love. As to whether or not they overcome that and find love through their accidental connection, we simply will not spoil here.

In fact, you’ve likely noticed that this review focuses heavily on themes and concepts over heavy details and there is good reason for that. Because we simply don’t want to spoil a contemplative film. One that really does explore so much more than we’ve covered in this review, for this movie really is a fascinating look at modern dating and everything good and bad that accompanies it and that does make it a worthwhile watch and the best news of all, is that you can see Love Accidentally in just a few days. For this motion picture makes its debut on Amazon Freevee on July 15, 2022 and we certainly hope you give this inventive and refreshing romantic comedy a look, because it really is a fun and thoughtful ride.

The 4th Thor movie drops today, and it is a pure joy. Marvel has been delivering amazing movies and shows for many years now, but Thor: Love and Thunder takes the prize for the funniest and most enjoyable movie, out of all of them. This movie had its comedic timing down to a perfect science. While it is a great laugh, it has its more tender and serious moments too. No need to worry for a Thor recap, as it does all of that for us. From the first Thor movie to Endgame and beyond, Thor: Love and Thunder gives a great oversight as to how we got to where we’re at.

They even explain Jane and Thor’s relationship, giving us insight into what really happened between the two. There are some amazing throwbacks to the other movies and even a great moment with the Guardians. Let’s not forget the best part about the entire movie, Korg. I’m not saying he’s the best sidekick, but I’m also not saying he’s not. The entire movie really handles the post-Thanos world in a different light. Giving great cameos, and hilarious scenes that really take the edge off of some of the more serious topics. This is easily the best Thor movie in the entire franchise.

The movie explores the God Butcher on his quest to kill all the Gods, feeling as though they had wronged him. Thor parts with the Guardians to take up the charge in facing this new enemy, along the way, he discovers his former love, Jane, has taken up the mantle of the Mighty Thor. Thor has to come to terms with his former hammer choosing Jane over him. With the help of King Valkyrie, the three set out to fight the evil God Butcher with Korg by their side. Not all is as it seems however, and while there is a villain, there is also so much more to the story. Let’s not forget, it is a Marvel movie, there are two post credit scenes that are well worth the wait. In the end the title of the film ends up being much deeper than originally thought. Above all, the movie is truly chalk full of love, in all its forms.

Let’s also add that Jane Foster’s Mighty Thor is well worth the wait as we finally get to see Lady Thor in action. King Valkyrie takes the cake as my all-time favorite Thor character, and I stand by that choice 100%. Not only does she slay it like the King she is, but Valkyrie holds nothing back in this movie. It’s the perfect summer film to go see and enjoy, with a very intense plot throughout the humor. Truthfully, this movie opens Marvel up to a whole new realm of possibilities and then some. Not that I’m going to spoil anything here, but let’s just say we might get that God-on-God fight we’ve been waiting for.

With all the action, there’s plenty to look forward to. Marvel knows exactly how so work a good fight scene and follow it with something more tender. This film does a lot to really explore Thor’s character. We’ve watched as Thor went from a young arrogant prince to a lovable goofball, but let’s not forget how capable he truly is. We finally get more into Jane’s character and even a little insight into Valkyrie. Korg’s journey is the best part of the movie. There are, of course, some very surprising characters we get to meet and its a touching moment. All in all, this movie delivers more than just a good time. It adds to the Marvel Cinematic Universe without stabbing the feelings out of us like Endgame. It’s much lighter than Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, with some genuine heart behind it.

And yet, the age-old question always remains, however, who would win, Zeus or Thor? Guess we have to wait to find out.

The disaster film is an American staple of cinema. These are motion pictures that manage to take us on one incredible ride by creating a feast for our eyes, by showing us the impossible and they often times find a way to draw tears from our eyes with their grand and sweeping stories. Yet despite the fact this genre of film is often a giant success at the box office, it features stories that are often forgotten after their run-in theaters, and in reality, only a handful have managed to stay in our hearts and withstand the test of time. 

One such film from this genre that has stayed with us over the years is 1996's Independence Day. This is a disaster film that remains a beloved favorite to this day for so many reasons. It transcended the genre by adding sci fi into the mix and it's memorable and lovable characters helped add a magical charm along with a sense of fun to the story as well. The movie did so well in theaters that a sequel was inevitable, but rather than simply churn one out, Director Roland Emmerich let the idea for a second entry in the series simmer on the back burner and now...twenty years later that story has finally arrived with Independence Day: Resurgence. 

The plot we won't spend much time breaking down today for several reasons. For starters, this is a film that is best experienced in theaters with a group of people because there are some pretty incredible moments that play with your emotions, so we will be avoiding spoilers for certain and second, we already have a pretty solid understanding what the core of the story is about; the vicious aliens that nearly destroyed earth in the first film have returned to finish what they started. So, what truly needs to be discussed today are two key elements when it comes to this story. Is the movie any good and does it manage to hold a flame in the slightest to the beloved original? 

So, with that in mind, let's get right down to the big first question...is the film any good? Absolutely, in fact it's a blast. Resurgence does one great thing when it comes to the story, it keeps the fun going. There is plenty of action and adventure to satisfy the audience through and through and truly, it's a blast to see a good chunk of the original cast return to reprise their roles and see what kind of people they have become after (as the film refers to it) The War of 1996, and the utopia that mankind has built after the War of '96 is a beautiful one to say the least. To imagine an alternate timeline where 2016 features a planet free of war and petty differences is simply wonderful and, in a way, I wish the film had spent a little more time on that.  ​

That's important to mention and discuss because that leads us right into the second important element regarding this film... whether or not it holds a flame to the original and well, the answer to that question is yes and no. From a standpoint of the scope and power of the action sequences, it buries the original. The ships are bigger, the aliens meaner and that does raise the stakes for humanity in this film, yet at the same time, Resurgence is missing a key critical element that we found in the first film...charm. One of the reasons we hold the original so near and dear to our hearts is because of the fact that we were instantly drawn to the colorful characters and their respective journeys.

That's simply not here in this entry of the story and that's a shame because it's clear that Roland Emmerich made this second chapter in the saga with the expectation to become The Empire Strikes Back of the story; that dark and disturbing chapter where the characters go through hell to see the light of day and there are moments in this film that accomplish that with some heartbreaking and tear inducing moments from the characters that you frankly don't see coming. Yet, despite all that effort to take us on a darker journey, the focus on action and adventure over character development is what hurts this story more than it should.  

However, despite the film's flaws, Emmerich and company deserve kudos for trying to do something new with the sequel to such a beloved film and that's really the biggest takeaway for anyone planning on seeing it, go in without expectations. Just clear your mind and enjoy the ride because this really is a different kind of story, one that is clearly setting the stage for a grand finale and one that more importantly, is entertaining and fun. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll hoot and holler at the breathtaking actions sequences and that's all you can really ask for; because that's exactly what all of us were doing when it came to the first film, which makes Independence Day: Resurgence a fun popcorn film that's absolutely worth seeing.

There was a time in cinema when the disaster flick was king. You would take an all-star cast, put them into harrowing situations where either a natural disaster or man made one surrounded them and turn the drama loose. It made for some compelling moments on the big screen but alas the disaster flick disappeared. 

That is until the late 1990's when Director Roland Emmerich, fresh off of the success of Stargate brought forth a wonderful concept. Take the awesomeness of the disaster flick and combine it with science fiction and the end result was a cult classic that I know I pop into my Blu Ray player on a regular basis... Independence Day. 

The world stands shocked. Mankind has always pondered as to whether or not we were the only intelligent life in the universe, but when giant, city sized spacecraft from the stars hover above metropolitan areas around the globe, we discover that we are not alone. But this grand discovery leads to a more important question, are these alien beings friend or foe? And the answer is one that will lead mankind into a fight for its survival on the only world it calls home.  

First and foremost, Independence Day is a special effects marvel. With an incredible combination of practical and CGI effects the invasion is pulled off to a tee and it certainly leaves the audience in awe. At the same time, we are treated to some fine performances from Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum and Bill Pullman but alas, this is a film not without its flaws.
 
For one, there are some absolutely unbelievable and cheesy moments in this action/disaster/alien spectacular, and sadly there are elements of pure American bravado that can actually be off putting. If you're not sure what I mean, go listen to the epic and hammy speech made by the President near the end of the film. His declaration that July 4th would no longer be an American holiday was one that caught foreign audiences off guard. And rightfully so, sure it’s fitting in the film but unnecessary to point out since the movie clearly establishes the aliens are willing to murder everyone on the planet.  

Yet, despite the cheese and machismo vitriol, the film works in many other ways because once you get past the goofy stuff, the movie is a damn lot of fun. Yes, there is nothing intellectual to be found here and well, there shouldn't be. This is a motion picture about aliens and humans duking it out in epic fashion and we get just that. Will Smith delivers some of the best one liners in years and we get a few hours of pure fun that can never be replicated. Independence Day was truly lightening in a bottle, the perfect storm of comedy, action, fun all while re-energizing the sci fi genre and bringing the disaster flick back to life.  It's one worth watching for the fun factor and honestly, one you should probably own.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for ‘The Bob’s Burgers Movie’.
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At long last, the Belchers have made it to the big screen! The project has been cooking for quite some time, factoring in both the show's longevity and the pandemic delays that pushed back the release date. The finished product that is plated up is a delight. It brings together the full voice cast for a full-length adventure full of twists and turns and rapid humor. 
 
With a universe that spans 12 television seasons, the movie feels well-contained and compact in the characters it focuses on. While we get cameos, bit parts, and one-liners from a vast chunk of others, the main storyline follows the Belcher family, with each member getting their own plot point and motivation. Bob (H. Jon Benjamin) and Linda (John Roberts) struggle to pay their business loan for the restaurant. Tina (Dan Mintz) yet again looks to woo Jimmy Junior, this time trying to build the courage to ask him to be her summer boyfriend. Gene (Eugene Mirman) invents a new instrument using restaurant items while he dreams of landing a big gig for his band. And, in the film’s most moving character arc, Louise (Kristen Schaal) tries to prove to her classmates - and, more importantly, to herself - that she’s brave and not a baby like some think. 
 
As each character goes through their own internal struggle, they all collectively face the external challenges of both a sinkhole in front of the restaurant and a murder mystery hitting the town. Fans of the show may have noticed the sidewalk cracking and the sinkhole forming very gradually during the opening credits of a season 12 episode, leading nicely into a pivotal moment in the film. At the same time, Wonder Wharf becomes the center of a homicide investigation as landlord Calvin Fischoeder is brought in for the murder of one of the Wharf’s employees. 

The Bob’s Burgers Movie excels because of its familiarity. The movie does all of the things the show does well. It’s full of equal parts charm and silliness. It’s fast-paced and quick-witted, with puns, visual gags, and subtle asides pouring in for the full runtime. It features a handful of large musical numbers and dance routines (the one with Louise and the carnies is spectacular!). It does push its animation style to look grander and sharper, but only in a couple big scenes that swoop around the town. Unlike some other live-action or animated TV shows that tried to do too much to expand their universe when making the leap to a feature film, this feels more like an extended episode of the show and delivers on what its fans love. 
 
The fact that it stays in its lane doesn’t mean that it comes off like a stale sesame seed bun; it actually feels like a few big payoff moments that were built in the show were saved specifically for the movie. The Belchers work together to solve the murder and the sinkhole problems, while each of their personal conflicts is resolved through some genuinely touching moments. Gene plays a show in front of an adoring crowd during a festival at the Wharf. Tina finally gets a moment with Jimmy Junior that’s long been teased on TV but has never materialized. And Louise steals the show, summoning the bravery to lead the family out of danger and learning the true story behind her bunny ears that she relies on as a security blanket through a truly sweet and emotional scene with Bob and Linda. Everything comes neatly together as the Belcher’s re-re-re-re-open their restaurant (with a customary banner, of course). 
 
Like a burger that Bob has been working to find all the right ingredients for, the movie was worth the wait. It brings the humor and heart that the cast so perfectly embodies now. The storyline is both contained but layered, taking the main characters to new heights while giving side characters like the Fischoeders and Teddy chances to shine. There are Easter eggs galore from throughout the 12 seasons and even the end credits bring a parade of characters from episodes past (be sure to stick around for a post-credits sequence, too!). It’s a brisk movie full of lighthearted fun that is sure to ease you into the summer season. Get your buns in the theater for The Bob’s Burgers Movie, opening May 27th!

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘We Need to Talk’.
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It is definitely safe to say, that we live in quite the amazing time. Because not only are we able to connect with anyone around the globe on a moment’s notice through technology, but that same technology has given rise to a new kind of star, the internet celebrity. That person who decades ago might have spent their life toiling about in meaningless jobs while dreaming of a life where they could have legions of adoring fans and a platform to do what they love. But now, with a little investment in the right gear and the right attitude and hook, anyone can become a star and so many have, and it is just incredible to see and hear the success stories that have come out this technological revolution.
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But while it is indeed amazing to see so many sidestep the traditional system and enjoy the success they deserve and share their talents with the world, becoming a sensation in this manner, does have its drawbacks. In that, some folks that obtain fame and fortune, don’t deserve it, and quickly reveal themselves to be nothing more than walking trash, the kind that are so foul they sully this path for others by creating hesitation for others to follow them when they have a similar hook. Plus, some aren’t prepared for the power of fame and how it can transform a person, and that leads to them losing touch with reality and their humility. Which begs quite the question, in that, how does one keep a person that has enjoyed internet fame grounded, all so they don’t become a ‘Whatever Happened to...’ piece on a gossip website?

Well as it turns out, there’s a brand-new motion picture out that explores the answer to that that very question and that makes We Need to Talk, quite the fascinating film. For this is a story that plunges us into the world of internet fame by introducing us a to man named Scott. Whom just so happens to be a famous ViewTuber that runs the ‘Great Scott Gamer’ channel and well, make no mistake about it… Scott has it all. Because his channel is a huge success, to the point where he gets to review the hottest games before they come out and he’s got a great girlfriend named Aly and the sky really is the limit. That is until Aly lets him know one random day, that the time has come for them to have an important talk and being forced to face the unknown, and reality, when it comes to the topic she wants to discuss, rattles him like never before.

Because in essence, Aly’s decision to ask Scott to talk, finally forces him to realize that the life he leads isn’t quite as wonderful as he thought it was. Sure, he has millions of adoring fans that tune in often to see what he has to say about games, but he neglects Aly, and he doesn’t really give her what she emotionally needs. Not to mention, he really keeps everyone at bay and makes the channel his priority and that puts him at a crossroads. One where he needs to figure out how to balance life and the dream he leads and/or if that balance is even possible, because of what fame provides him with. Which brings forth beautiful commentary on what internet fame has done to people and how technology in general has taught us to connect with worlds that don’t provide us with what we really need… which is that all-important human connection.

But while that commentary is welcome and definitely gives one pause, there was mention of the fact that this motion picture works to answer the mysterious question that plagues people in Scott’s position and well, what is said here is quite powerful. For it informs us that those of us who are lucky enough to find this kind of fame, need to be surrounded with people that keep us connected to the real world and give us a life beyond our digital one. And they need to be GOOD people as well, the kind that genuinely care about who we are and not what we can do for them, and if we can find that, and receive honest feedback from those same people about where we are… then wonders can be accomplished and the superstar career that so many dream of… can be sustained for years on end.

Which seems like a simplistic answer to what looks like a complex problem, but it is the right answer for certain. Because it is the fantasies we reside in that are complex in nature. If anything, that wonderful analysis makes for one endearing movie, one that is also quite fun in nature. Thanks to some delightful laughs present, which makes the material accessible and palatable and not a download in the slightest. Plus, it features some quality performances that feel real and honest and well, if you’re looking for an uplifting movie that examines a brewing problem in our world in a fun and realistic and heartfelt light, then fire up your favorite streaming device and give this gem a look. You’ll be glad you did. 

With the latest film in the MCU, we have gained even more insight into the world we have all grown to know and love. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is a ride unlike any other MCU movie. This takes us across a Multiverse into places we have never dreamed of going. While it didn’t make us ask, ‘What If?…’ it did leave us wanting more. Companied with the shows released on Disney+, Multiverse of Madness brought one particular show to the forefront and drew a connection unlike any other.
 
In the long-awaited sequel to Doctor Strange, we are fully introduced to Stephen’s magical abilities like never before. Seeing Wong embrace his Sorcerer Supreme title was well worth the tease we got from Spider-Man: No Way Home​, since it pays off in this movie. As it so happens, magic really isn’t anything to be messing with. The fragility of the Multiverse is strikingly poignant throughout the film. While Loki teased the dangers of the Multiverse, Multiverse of Madness shies away from nothing.

Doctor Strange has always been one of the more Avant-garde comics, and both movies have had a lot of odd elements at play. Choosing to showcase Sorcery and the full array of the mystic arts was a bold choice in this film, couple that with some of the darker elements, and you have one of the best Marvel films to date. Multiverse of Madness might not be for everyone, but it is a genuinely enjoyable movie that will have every Marvel fan gasping with glee.
 
Visually, this film is a masterpiece, much like its predecessor, keeping with the same whimsical themes and adding in a touch of horror components makes this one of the most unique MCU films to date. Be warned as there is some graphically violent imagery, and just a bit of the unsettling. This movie, however, has it all in spades and promises a great time for any Marvel fan.

Multiverse of Madness has put its own spin on things, and while technically a sequel, this does not chronologically take place immediately after Doctor Strange. In fact, this film goes beyond the traditional sequel. And, if you’re worried you need to watch any of the shows that aired on Disney+ or any of the movies following the first Doctor Strange film, Multiverse of Madness does a great job of catching you up on anything and everything you need to know. That being said, seeing every Marvel movie and show, always helps with the little Easter eggs, especially if you’ve read the comics. All in all, this was easily a top tier Marvel movie, cementing itself into the favorites quite quickly! A fun, imaginative ride with a darker spin on our favorite Sorcerer.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘The Northman’.
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The true beauty of storytelling is its outright freedom. For the creative mind can do anything and go anywhere and bring anyone to life and march those very characters toward death in a story if they so choose… without any consequences or limitation. And in doing so, the creator can express fascinating thoughts and offer amazing observations about our world and that is why humanity has such a rich relationship with storytelling. Because we know when we pick up a new book or watch a new show or settle into a movie that seems unlike any other, we will be treated to something special and freeing and thoughtful, especially when the story in question comes forth from someone well known for quality storytelling. Such as say, director Robert Eggers. 
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For time and time again, Robert has wowed us with unique stories that not only examine unique time periods in the world’s history but have something to say about the human condition in the process. Since The Witch spoke to the power of ignorance through the witch trials of yore, while The Lighthouse spoke to the power and horror of isolation and of course, to keep these films incredibly interesting, he’s also provided us with stunning and visceral imagery to really sell the wonder of the story. If anything, Robert and his work, and the majesty of storytelling are top of mind today… simply because Robert has a brand-new motion picture out that takes us into another fascinating time period in our history, to explore the nature and danger of revenge in The Northman.

Now in this particular film, we are transported back to the era where the Vikings ruled the day, to meet a young boy named Amleth who quickly finds his idyllic life as a prince in distress. For his uncle opts to make a power play for the crown, exiling young Amleth in the process and leaving him lost and filled with anger as he grows into a man. In fact, once he reaches adulthood, all he knows is violence, fueled from his unresolved emotions, and with the help of a little magic, he decides that the time has come to cool that fire the only way that a man of his skill set knows how, with revenge. Which is a decision that brings him to his uncle’s new farm in Iceland and a violent confrontation, where the power of the vendetta will decide whether or not he has a future in this life. 

Which is a plot that holds nothing back regarding the power and danger of revenge. For it wastes little time in making it clear, in no small terms, that revenge is poison to the body and the soul and that we cannot let it dictate our fate or our future. That we must instead purge it, before it truly consumes us with its fire and that message is expressed through powerful moments and brilliant and powerful imagery. The kind that only Eggers can pull off on the silver screen, since we watch its power consume Amleth minute by minute, and diminish his physical stature and ability to heal, and at times it appears as though it is sucking the very life force out of him. And the desire to really look at the ugliness of revenge extends beyond Amleth’s emotional journey. For Eggers figured out how to express that fury in a visceral manner as well.
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That means, this is also a supremely violent story. One where Amleth takes the time to relish in every vengeful kill with a twisted glee that does in fact, take the audience by complete and utter surprise. Because the visuals also hold nothing back in showing us how far a man must and will go to truly exact revenge upon another person, and watching people suffer Amleth’s wrath by sword or by fist, in an unfettered manner… in the name of revenge, reinforces and enhances the message for certain. It also truly evokes an understanding of the savage impact that revenge has upon others and how it can change lives for the worse, especially when people decide that the ultimate act is the only way to obtain it.

If anything, the subject matter and its powerful exploration on the nature of revenge, make this perhaps Robert Eggers’ darkest and most visceral film to date. One that pushes the envelope of visual storytelling in every way imaginable, to the point where we do need to make it clear… that this movie might not be for everyone. Only because some of the physical battles here and some of the ancient rituals involving animals that the Vikings took part in so many years ago, will unsettle a viewer greatly with their raw portrayal of gore and violence. But if one can look past that and not let it assault their senses, then expect to be treated to a magnum opus of sorts, one that rivals the great tragedies of our time, courtesy of its powerful and unyielding message.