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.

One particular aspect about life that we truly take for granted, is how much freedom we enjoy in our lives. Because there’s little in our way when we get up in the morning. We can take whatever path we want and do whatever we want. Sure, that includes negative things, but there are consequences for that. But beyond going down a bad path, we can take a trip to the mountains ten states away, we can make all kinds of life choices, and no one says a word. Because we’re just an everyday person living in the land of the free and there’s nothing that people can do to stop us from enjoying our best life. Which is wonderful and joyous and genuinely easy to take for granted.
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Because not everyone gets to enjoy that wonder. For there are folks that wake up that don’t enjoy an ounce of freedom. They’re stuck in a part of the world where their lives are deeply controlled and terrifying and they only know fear and suffering because of it, and what’s amazing… is that there are people in the land of the free that also awaken without certain freedoms in front of them. Because prejudices run high in America and so do certain restrictions in certain states and when combined, there are freedoms that people simply cannot take part in, and that’s wrong. Because all should be able to live their lives as they please, and the importance of that, and its impact, was explored in the most unique manner possible, in Ted 2.

Which again, may seem to be a surprise thing to read. After all, Ted 2 was filed with some incredibly comedic moments. For this is the movie that gave us Liam Neeson buying a box of Trix under suspicious circumstances at Ted’s place of work. Not to mention, the New York Comic Con sequences are the stuff of legend. Complete with a Michael Dorn cameo, the Enterprise-D and that Superman joke about Jonah Hill remains as funny and as relevant as ever. Plus, having Giovanni Ribisi find his way back into the fold as the villain was just amazing and gives the film incredible cohesion. All of which should speak to a zany adventure with the Thunder Buddies over something powerful and philosophical and outright deep.

But much like the last film, the devil is in the details. Because this is a story that sees dear Ted, try, and do what so many others do in this life, and start a family. Through marriage, adoption and he is of course, denied in this tale. Because he’s not viewed as an individual. Which leads to shenanigans and frustrations, and some fine commentary on what it means to be a person in this life and what defines our humanity. Which is worth pondering upon simply because… that’s stuff we have to define daily in the current climate, since cruelty is often on display and there are so many people like Ted out there. For instance, there are LGBTQIA+ couples that are denied adoption options because of bias against their sexual preferences or gender identity. Which is of course, stupid and closed minded, but sadly… those people exist and impart their will upon others for the pettiest of reasons.
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Not to mention, there are people from different races about the world that are seen as not human by perhaps the dumbest individuals to walk the planet, and there are people actively working to revoke their rights and make them less than when they are equal to. All of which is a plot that really is designed to give us pause and does so. Because this is indeed stuff that is part of our world for some effed-up reason, and it needs to be discussed and displayed and the resolution present here… is the right one for that matter. Simply because… there are individuals that worry way too much about how people live their lives outside of their own home, and that needs to stop, and people need to be allowed to just live their lives to the fullest.

Because no one is getting out of life, alive, and there’s no point in making the lives of others, miserable. Especially when their business is their own and doesn’t impact us in the slightest really, and well, all of those messages and musings, make this a stunningly powerful feature. One that covers some incredible observations about our world, lensed through the hilarity of a talking teddy bear that still loves his weed like there’s no tomorrow. And the combination of flawless comedy, and bigger jokes combined with bigger concepts, make this a brilliant story as well. One that should be celebrated often, because this kind of intelligent comedy is just rare, but welcome. Because sometimes, the best way to learn about the world is through laughter, and this movie accomplishes that for certain.

It is definitely safe to say that motion pictures, and books, and television shows that explore the complexities of relationships focus heavily on one type of relationship… the romantic kind. It makes sense as to why. For we as a society cherish love deeply, and we are eager to teach others that it won’t be a walk in the park. There will be bad times, there will be fights and there will be real challenges when it comes to growth and sustainability of that love. And seeing and reading stories where people overcome those issues, inspires us to fight hard when we find it and it gives us hope that we will indeed find our one and only and know exactly how to keep them happy and grow with them for the rest of our days.
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But while that focus is indeed fulfilling and audiences flock to them in any form, there is one problem in making that the focal point of all these stories. In that, it doesn’t fully showcase how to handle the other important relationships in our lives. Such as friendships. Which is, yes, a true relationship. It just doesn’t involve romantic gestures and intimacy in the romantic sense, and it is one that we don’t value in the manner we always should. Since we are keen to trim friends now and again as though they’re no big deal, and sometimes… we even shed valued best friends in the name of stupid things. When in reality, friendships also require work, and growth and honesty, and believe it or not, after so many years of stories focusing on the just romantic stuff, not that long ago… a movie finally came forth that explored the importance of maintaining healthy friendships in our lives, and how, by way of Seth MacFarlane’s Ted.

Which well, might be a statement that raises eyebrows. After all, this is a story about a grown man that hangs out with a sentient teddy bear. Wherein they smoke weed, watch Flash Gordon nonstop, and do some unsavory and wild stuff in the name of having a good time. In fact, one could argue, that there is no depth to this film and it’s just a wild comedy about those very things, with some cocaine thrown in for good, measured laughs as well. But one would be wrong. Because all of those comedy elements are just designed to make a story about a grown man and his foul-mouthed teddy bear, palatable. So that the lesson will actually stick with us and well, what we learn in this story is in fact… quite incredible. Because in reality, Ted is a feature that examines two key elements regarding the central theme of friendship. 

For instance, this movie does take a very frank look at how we treat them in this life. Specifically, how we believe that friendships have to maintain a certain border and barrier emotionally. As though being open with a close friend is a crime and that is indeed a societal view of friendships, and it is one that allows for us to just toss friends aside. For if they don’t meet our needs or our criterion, we don’t need them in our lives and this movie makes it clear… that’s not the way to go. Because when you really look at John and Ted’s relationship, it’s deep, they bond as brothers really, and eventually they come to learn some healthy things about friendship along the way. Such as the fact… that it is okay to be open about feelings with our close friends, and that in fact… we should. 
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Because that can promote real growth in us and help us to see our lives through a different lens, and we should also be prepared… to ask ourselves how much this friendship means to us. Because there will be fights and moments of conflict and if the friendship is special and worth it… we need to face those moments head on. And all of those lessons come together in a beautiful manner in this story. Courtesy of moments that showcase growth, that allow for John and Ted to see what they mean to one another and what their bond actually accomplishes, and of course… they come to learn the most valuable lesson of all. The value of friendship, and the power pouring ourselves into making it healthy and sustainable. 

All of which brings forth, a very charming and very hilarious comedy. Because all endearing moments aside, this is a movie where Seth brings his A-game to the table as a writer and a director, and a comedian. Which in turn leads to some amazingly funny moments, many of which leave you laughing deeply and sometimes, leave you gasping for air. But beyond the laughs is a masterful script that is also filled to the brim with dynamic characters that we can relate to, moments that feel straight out of our own lives. Because who doesn’t love Flash Gordon and has some variant of a Thunder Buddy, and all of those reasons allow for this film to endure. For it really is refreshing and original, and fun, and it has an amazing message for all of us, about why we should pay our friends more mind, and more care.

When we are young, we are taught that the holiday season is a truly magical time. Where evil is forgotten and fades into the background, replaced instead by good will toward one another and a sense of unity. Where the bright and colorful lights fill up hearts and fill up the world and that lesson sticks with us hard. Because we do see people be kind to one another during the season, and we see meaningful gifts be given and received and we do see joy and unity. Where everyone has a smile on their faces as they sing songs of Christmas cheer and of letting the past year go, and well… what’s incredible about this lesson… is how quickly we come to learn that it is an outright lie when we leave the wonder of our youth behind and begin to step toward adulthood.
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For as we grow into that all important age where the world comes into focus, do we see that the holiday season is nothing short… of a foolhardy attempt to right the wrongs of the world. Where we put up the façade of those joyous elements in the hopes that somehow… it will ooze into the world’s ills, and fix them, instead of us all working together collectively to impact real change. Which really does shock us and leaves us beside ourselves. For the holidays were supposed to be so much more, but they are instead… just several weeks of the norm with strings of lights placed atop everything and that does leave us to wonder… why we bother with the season. Because what’s the point of celebrating a lie and pushing it forward when people are indeed suffering or struggling beneath the cover of ignorance? 

Well, that’s a question that a great deal of us have asked throughout the years, with a mixed bag of answers. But the fact of the matter is… value can be found in the holiday season and there are valid reasons that make it worth celebrating, as evidenced by what the brand-new feature, The Holdovers, explores regarding the season. For this is a story that introduces us to a trio of individuals that are dealing with a difficult holiday season at Barton Academy in 1970. For instance, Mary Lamb is dealing with the sad reality that her son Curtis, won’t be home for Christmas because of his passing in Vietnam, and young Angus Tully has been left at the school for the entire winter break because his parents want little to do with him, and Professor Paul Hunham is tasked with watching over all of them until the break is over. Which he sees as a waste of his time and talents, and well… that only amplifies underlying disdain that all of them harbor regarding the season and its genuinely hollow nature. But their time together will in fact, do wonders for them this holiday. For having a trio of people that are experiencing grief, loneliness, and a need to find direction… will serve as the perfect formula for helping them to see what the season is really all about.

Which is a concept, that quickly allows for the film to answer to the question that hangs heavy over us. In that what makes the holidays worthwhile and genuinely magical, is coming to understand the incredible reality… that we are a part of something greater. That we are part of an incredible species, that experience similar struggles and similar pains, and live and die together on a tiny blue ball that hurtles through space, and we forget that and should use the holiday season to reflect upon the reality… that we’ve been given the gift of being part of something so special. For we are indeed a true rarity in the universe, and if we took a moment to understand that, and learn from another and care for one another accordingly… our lives and our culture would indeed change for the better. But alas, getting to that lesson is no easy task because of the walls we put up, the clichés we believe in, and the isolation we put ourselves through. 
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Those struggles are of course, put forth via the characters, who come from unique walks of life, and they are what makes this motion picture work so well. Because we are able to connect with each of the core trio here in some capacity, courtesy of their quirks, their experiences and that immediately draws us into a film that offers those lessons and incredible journeys in a unique manner through its setting. For the 1970s are not a place that we often equate with finding learning experiences because of how tumultuous a time it was in modern history. But it parallels the chaos of now and seeing similarities to both eras reminds us, as does Paul in a poignant scene that… our experiences are timeless. That each generation has more in common with one another than we give them credit, and that too, would help us find meaning in this special season, since that would reinforce the lesson at hand give us the perspective, we all desire. 

All of which brings forth, a stunningly powerful motion picture. One that is also carried by some equally as powerful performances. Since Da’Vine Joy Randolph truly sells the power of Mary Lamb’s grief in this tale, and Dominic Sessa is simply electric as Angus Tully and properly reminds us of the uncertainty of youth and its unexpected struggles. But of course, it is Paul Giamatti that steals the show here as Paul Hunham, since Giamatti brings forth an incredible depth to Professor Hunham, one that is rarely seen in period pieces and one that we truly latch onto because his journey reflects a lot of our own and well… he is what brings together a magnificent story that quite frankly… the world needs right now. For we are indeed divided and jaded, and what better a way to cut through the nonsense and the noise, than a pure holiday film that presents a refreshing take on the greatest gift of all… the life we’ve been given.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie’. Also, this article contains discussions regarding suicide, which may be triggering to some individuals.
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One particular aspect regarding crime stories that we don’t discuss or call out enough, is how the detectives and private investigators that make up these tales… are oft cold in nature. They’re not bad people by any means, but they tend to be closed off to the reader or the viewer. As though living and eating crime is all they know. To the point where they’re not impacted by the horrors they see or they’re numb to them and that is… problematic. For that doesn’t reflect the fact that investigators are indeed people who absolutely have feelings and emotions and take home the things they see, and it is curious why those stories don’t acknowledge that.

It could be, to keep the audience from being overwhelmed by darkness of the tale. After all, lots of these tales involve murder, the worst harm possible a human being can impart upon another. So, having a rock-solid person to guide us through the ugly makes it palatable. Or it could just be to keep entertainment value in play, but for whatever reason, there is a detachment there, one that we are reminded of when we do encounter stories that don’t feature that iciness. For there are indeed stories that tap into more and explore the impact of violent death by violent crime in a humane manner that quite frankly moves us, and stays with us, and teaches us something about ourselves and life along the way. If anything, all of this is top of mind today, simply because a story in that more humane vein is available to stream on Peacock right now, and that makes Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie, quite the important watch on so many levels. In part because… well…. Adrian Monk is back on the airwaves to solve a murder one more time.

For this character truly is iconic and missed from the television landscape. So, seeing Adrian come out of retirement to solve a very personal mystery involving the death of Molly’s husband-to-be, is compelling and wondrous in its own right. Since the plot does indeed feature all the tenets of this saga that we love and enjoy. Such as the return of Monk’s OCD and outright impish quirkiness, and of course… his outright brilliance. Not to mention, this story basically gets the band back together since Natalie and Randy return, and Trudy in her own special way. Plus Dr. Bell is back, and even Stottlemeyer finds his way into the case. One that revolves around Monk and Molly’s belief that billionaire Rick Eden killed her beloved fiancé. A case that speaks to the current zeitgeist of America and our disdain for the ultra-rude rich and their inability to care about anything but themselves.

But truth be told, while the case is engaging and also brings about familiar and welcome moments from the show and other movie specials, and ends with good winning the day, it's the stuff in between and after the case that makes this movie worth our while. Because this presents to us, a very different Adrian Monk. One that should be enjoying his retirement but is miserable instead. Because Monk has no purpose here, no understanding of what he should be doing when he’s not actively helping others and that puts him in a dark place. Where he feels he never made a difference during his time on the force and of his own accord, and that his efforts truly did nothing to make the world a better place. Which in turn prompts him to think about taking his own life, and that makes for a powerful journey.
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For we are now witness to some hard truths about this man. In that, he has indeed lived a tough life and hasn’t reconciled the horrors he’s seen and is eager to escape the pain he hasn’t resolved. Giving rise to the most relatable and vulnerable iteration of Adrian we’ve seen to date, since we’ve been in his shoes and felt that ache and some folks have given similar thought to Monk’s endgame in this tale, and also feel as though… there is no value to their lives. But this story also takes the time to inform us through Monk’s journey, that such thoughts aren’t true, and that we each provide value to the world and we each touch lives in ways we never thought possible. We don’t always hear the thank you we want, nor do we understand fully how we improve the world… but we do. And we need to find a way to understand that and comprehend and reconcile the pain we’ve endured. 

All so we can do what Adrian Monk does in this tale… and go on. Go on and see the beauty we forget about that surrounds us and embrace the value we do create and have created through our efforts in life. For we are precious and wondrous and that makes this… a beautiful story. One that truly addresses the tough mental space so many of us are in coming out of years of scariness and cruelty, and it really is a marvel that a crime story sends that message our way, but this is the right one to do it. For Adrian Monk’s adventures have always been different and beautiful, and the fact that the cast doesn’t miss a beat here to bring all that home is a marvel as well. In fact, seeing them again, gives us hope that perhaps we’ll get more Monk stories down the line. Wherein we can see Adrian in his new chapter, handling his business differently. Making this the ‘last case’ where darkness hangs over him. But if not, finding peace and drive to do good in the world again, is a wondrous way to send off one of television’s most beloved, and human, private investigators.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the short film, ‘Soul Mates’.
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We expect to become quite reflective and curious in nature when reach extreme old age. Wherein we will wonder if we’ve done enough to live a fulfilling and satisfying life, one where we will be remembered fondly by those we leave behind. And where we will also ponder upon… what lies beyond this particular life. For at the right age, we will fully understand our time is short, and that it won’t be long before we take our final breaths and release ourselves into whatever waits in the void and well… we want to make sure our affairs are in order and that we’re ready for the end. So that our final moments are spent filled with love, and harmony, and zero worries about the undiscovered country that awaits us.

However, while there is a part of us that believes those final days will be inquisitive and peaceful, there’s a chance they will be the opposite. For that is a lot to pack in when our time is nearly up, and if we haven’t done enough in our eyes, we might scramble, and the end might scare us. Not to mention, we may simply have no clue what to reflect upon or what to cherish or how to reconcile our death. Because that’s a lot for a person to process, and well, that’s why stories are so vital to us. Since they can help us ponder upon endless possibilities, and help us sort out so much, and it just so happens that a new short feature film takes the time to explore what we should cherish in those final days and perhaps what awaits us when we do die.

A feat that Soul Mates accomplishes by introducing us to a couple… dealing with the realities of death. For Sean has discovered his days are numbered by his health, and that prompts him to see the world with his beloved Abby to enjoy every last minute before passing away, and it also prompts the two of them… to make an ethereal pact. In that, they both believe what awaits us in death, is a second chance if we didn’t get everything right the first time. So, they vow to find one another when they are reborn into this world. To get it right, to enjoy their love once again and well, when their time comes, they put their faith in the unknown and come to discover that the universe… might not be as cruel as we make it out to be.

Which is a beautiful way to explore in detail… how we shouldn’t worry as much about the path we walked and the legacy we left behind. Because what’s behind us, is behind us, and we don’t always have control over legacy. But we can in fact, cherish every single precious moment, and hold onto the collection of feelings that they provided us with and if those were good and wondrous, we did all right. Not to mention, the movie also digs deep into the possibility that we are on this Earth a long, long time. Through reincarnation and the power of lessons. So that we can eventually figure out how to do things right and live as close to the perfect life we all dream of. As to whether or not though, Sean and Abby rekindle their love… well… we won’t spoil that here.

Because that’s an ending you need to see to believe, one that brings this unique story together in a proper manner, and unique really is the best word to describe this feature. Because there’s really nothing to compare this story to, and that’s a wonderful thing. Because it is always nice to run into a tale that is this refreshing and this original, and going the short film format, helps it. Because it amplifies the emotions it wishes to get across, and the endearing performances present here. All of which makes for a delightful viewing experience. One that is hopeful and open minded and offers clarity regarding what we should be chasing and worrying about… in the moment.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the documentary feature, ‘District of Second Chances’.
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When we are young, we are taught… that the American legal system is a true sight to behold, and there is merit to that line of teaching. After all, we stand by the notion that all are innocent until proven guilty, in a court of law by their peers no less. So that other people give their objective views to the case at hand, so the right verdict and the right punishment is reached. So, we soldier forth in this life, truly believing that the system is infallible, and its structure is sound, only for us to learn… that the American legal system is not all that it is cracked up to be. It could be through a personal experience with the system or through outside observation… but one way or another we come to see its flaws and find ourselves concerned. Because such a truth informs us, that a broken system brings about broken verdicts and that justice isn’t properly being served and well, a deeper dive not only confirms that, but that there are other problems present within this supposedly glorious system.

Such as the fact that more often than not, any chance to throw a violent offender into jail for as long as possible, is the norm for sentences. Which makes no sense, because the prison system isn’t supposed to be long-term housing, it is to be a rehabilitation center, to have violent offenders pay their dues and rejoin society. But somehow it became the opposite, and there are now people… who learned from their mistakes and are eager to pay it forward and pay back their debt to society as needed… stuck in prison. Where they can do nothing but languish and lament and wonder and thankfully… these issues are being recognized and slowly addressed. For there are laws out there now, that work to help people in that situation get their proper due and get a chance to return to the everyday world, and there are programs in place to help them cope and find new direction when they do get out.

But sadly, there isn’t much discussion out there about Second Chances laws and what they can do, nor is there much discussion about how they could help enact change in the system and help people that are ready to rejoin society do so, but that is starting to change. For a new documentary out there not only explores the benefits of these laws but puts faces on the struggle of those trying desperately to set right their wrongs. A feat that District of Second Chances accomplishes, by introducing us to three men, Anthony ‘Pete’ Petty, Colie Levar Long, and Gene Downing, who are in various stages of working with the Second Chances laws present in Washington D.C. Which are indeed designed to look at certain cases of individuals that committed violent crimes and were given giant sentences, to see if they deserve another shot at life in the regular world, because they are in fact… rehabilitated.

Which really is the perfect way to showcase the flaws of our judicial system and the importance of these laws. Because we come to learn through Pete, Colie, and Gene… how the system failed them. Courtesy of ridiculous bias at the time they were sentenced, bias that still exists today and it is important to showcase that. Because justice is supposed to be impartial and we don’t call out enough that it isn’t and it hasn’t been for a very long time, so this documentary deserves a round of applause for speaking that truth, and for deeply exploring the inner workings of how these men found themselves locked away and forgotten, and the dangerous struggles they encountered on their way out of the broken system that exists. Because it truly allows for a grand discussion to take place regarding the need for reforms and laws such as these so that others don’t have to struggle in the manner that these gentlemen did.

But while that does make for some fascinating learning about our legal system and it's unfortunate but fixable flaws… what truly makes this documentary so powerful, is in the humanity it showcases. Because getting to spend time with Petey, Collie, and Gene… allows for us to understand, that not all violent offenders and criminals are the monsters they are portrayed to be. They’re people. People that yes, committed a crime and were convicted, but are people none the less. Who really did make a poor choice out of the folly of youth and the environment that surrounded them. But harbor remorse, harbor an understanding of how their crime was wrong and how it impacted lives, and why they need to atone for it. Which is something we don’t see often in film, but it is necessity, because it hammers home the reality that we can learn from our mistakes and pay it forward and do right.

Which we see happen often in this story, and that is inspiring and powerful. Because it speaks to the reality that with some genuine care and deep reforms, we can in fact, create a justice system that does what it is supposed to. All of which makes this, a poignant and important documentary. One that really does go bold places that no other documentary about the legal system goes, in an honest and objective manner. Which is also important to showcase since now and again you run into documentaries that want to push an agenda. But Director Wynette Yao and Cinematographer Travis Edwards simply capture the reality of our legal system in 2023. Where people that are embracing the error of their ways and are desperate for a chance to repay their debt, are fighting tooth and nail to do so. Courtesy of a broken system that is in desperate need of reform so that it provides everyone with the second chance and fairness it promises.

To learn more about this documentary, check out our interview with Director/Producer Wynette Yao and Cinematographer/Editor Travis Edwards, here.

The day that each and every one of us leave home for college, or to set out into the world, is supposed to be quite the special day and understandably so. After all, this day is the culmination of eighteen years of growth and learning and hard work from all parties. And that is why we cherish this day and celebrate it and see it as nothing but purely positive. But if there one constant truth that accompanies days we cherish, it is that they are not exactly what we expect them to be in our mind, and this event is no exception to that rule. After all, there’s no cinematic feel to this day. There’s the usual chaos that accompanies traveling, and this is a moment of great change in everyone’s life and sadly… we don’t talk about this. Or the impact it could have upon people. But thankfully, this new era of storytelling is working to change that.
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For day in and day out, there are creatives eager to accurately document the human experience in print, or on television or in film and it just so happens… that a film from writer/director Antonio Sequeira, that recently screened at the Austin Film Festival, takes the time to explore what the reality of that moment in our lives actually looks like, and the lasting impact of having the family unit go its own path for all the right reasons. A feat that Autumn accomplishes by introducing us to a Portuguese family that is dealing with that all-important day. For the eldest son is headed to college and while there is indeed pomp and circumstance over him leaving home to learn and grow… what follows his exit, is nothing short of chaos. For everything changes for the family, and those changes are reflected when he comes home to visit during breaks at university.

Which gives rise to a powerful story, one that truly chronicles how that moment impacts so much. Such as how leaving home changes our perspective on so much in life. Since we learn about the world as it really is when we get out there, and that changes our worldview and makes us question some of the lessons we learned growing up. Not to mention, this young man’s experiences also remind us of the fact that when we leave home, we are indeed on our own. Where it is up to us to use what we have learned to create stability and income and peace, and that gives us a real taste of how tough adulthood will be down the line, and it also gives us a sense of appreciation and melancholy for what we’ve lost, and that’s all covered here in a magnificent manner that is relatable and impactful.

Plus, the movie makes sure to cover what parents go through as well. Such as grief. Because just like that… there is no more caring for their little one, and a familiar routine that’s been part of their days for eighteen years is gone. And that can create real struggles at home, as they work to adjust and of course… that also amplifies for parents, their age, and where they are at in life. Because that’s a huge chapter closed and it definitely prompts one to look at the road ahead and well… those two key elements, create a very visceral feature. One that feels painfully real often. Simply because, we are privy to moments that we have either lived through or will live through and well… in the end, all of those elements make for a brilliant motion picture. 
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Simply because, it is rare, even in this incredible age of film, for a movie to try and just capture the moment as it stands. For the belief is always that dramatic effect takes precedence or that a story or some kind of narrative has to be tied to these events to make them more palatable. But here, we are simply witnessing a year in the life… of people. In fact, setting the movie in Portugal only adds to the wonder of this motion picture. For that serves as a fine reminder that these kinds of moments, are universal and human, and are not exclusive to a particular culture. But what truly makes this motion picture worth our while… are the core messages that all of these important moments/memories are designed to send our way.

In that, while this day may not be as magical as we would like for it to be, it is still a critical moment in our lives. For this is when one chapter ends and another begins, and we get the opportunity in every sense of the word… to write a new one as we see fit. Because once the mourning is done, and once the change is adjusted to… we go on. For the kids forge a path in the world and find their place within it and carry with them eighteen wondrous years of memories and connection that can never be lost or severed, and the parents go on… and live. Live with the knowledge they’ve done something special, something wonderful, and they can now rest and catch up on a few goals they hadn’t before, and hopefully in the end, the powerful lessons present here and the poignant moments as well, will make this a foundational film for years to come for families on the brink of the next chapter of their lives.