Why Fandoms Can't Be Trusted: The Best Example

In the fickle world of fandom, initial reactions are frequently off the mark. The Mandalorian and Super Mario Bros. are just two recent examples of how reactions can change dramatically.

Ahmed Best's return to the Star Wars universe is a prime example of this phenomenon, with fans now embracing the actor despite his past portrayal of Jar Jar Binks. Similarly, while Chris Pratt's take on Mario's voice drew criticism at first, the film's stunning visuals and entertainment value are winning over audiences.

Social media is great for instant feedback but don't believe everything you see.

Read on for a fortnight of movie frolicking >>>

• The Inevitable Foundation published a letter to the entertainment industry. It suggests solutions to the problem of disabled screenwriters being hired as low-paid diversity consultants rather than writers of disabled characters.

• Cineworld Group announced on Monday that it will emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy and abandon efforts to sell its businesses in the United States and the United Kingdom unless an unlikely all-cash bid is made.

⚖️ Domestic violence charges against Justin Roiland, co-creator of Rick and Morty, have now been dropped due to insufficient evidence.

⚖️ David Halls, assistant director, pled ‘no contest’ to a misdemeanor charge of negligent use of a deadly weapon on the set of Rust. Judge Mary Sommer sentenced Hall to six months, which was then suspended and replaced with a $500 fine, a firearms safety course, a drug and alcohol abstinence programme, and 24 hours of community service

⚖️ Tilda Swinton has endorsed a campaign to save Edinburgh's Filmhouse Cinema. Swinton described the movie theater as an "invaluable cultural resource" for the city of Edinburgh that should be preserved. She urged people to band together in recognising the value of culture in Scotland and demanded that any potential sale of the cinema be conducted transparently.

▶ April 7th, Apple TV+ will debut a riveting new documentary series titled Boom! Boom! The World Vs. Boris Becker. This film delves deeply into the life and career of one of the world's most legendary tennis players, from his meteoric rise to prominence at the age of 17, to his incredible 49 career titles.

▶ Bringing Black Barbie: directed by Lagueria Davis, explores the intergenerational impact of the first Black Barbie 43 years after its release. The film investigates how a lack of representation of Black images in the "social mirror" has resulted in Black girls having few resources for self-reflection and self-projection.

An Oral History of Grease

Grease's beloved high school setting, Rydell High, has captured the hearts of audiences for 45 years, and for good reason. The sun-kissed campus and dynamic dance numbers make viewers long for a simpler time.

The musical, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, transports viewers into a world of preening boys and blushing girls as they navigate the triumphs and tribulations of adolescent love. Read more…

• Villains can form part of any story. They are frequently terrifying for both the protagonist and the audience. However, baddies don't always hit the mark and sometimes end up being more comical than frightening.

• On April 11, Lionsgate will release a House of 1000 Corpses Blu-ray to commemorate its 20th anniversary. The new release includes a Director's Commentary track by Rob Zombie, which he is currently recording 20 years after the original DVD release.

• Natasha Lyonne is a beloved television star known for playing tough New Yorkers. She has recently taken on the lead role in Poker Face, allowing her to embody quintessential masculine energy.

▶ Ballerina

▶ Five Nights at Freddy’s

▶ Mafia Mamma

▶ Paint

▶ Blue Beetle

▶ Nefarius

Worldwide (cumulative) Box Office April 2023 📈

♻️ Reboots and Sequels

A Mission: Impossible veteran will reprise his role in the upcoming final episode of the blockbuster franchise.

‘Planet of the Dead’ – Zack Snyder Updates on ‘Army of the Dead’ Sequel

Zack Snyder is currently working on Netflix's sci-fi project Rebel Moon, delaying the upcoming sequel to Army of the Dead, Planet of the Dead. Snyder revealed Dieter, played by Matthias Schweighöfer, could be making his return. Army ends with a sequel tease as Omari Hardwick’s Vanderohe is infected and headed to Mexico City, suggesting that the zombie virus is spreading beyond Las Vegas, potentially to the entire planet.

Tweet of the Week(s):

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Too Much Tuna! 🐟

You’ve got it made! 👇

Why Are New Movies And TV Shows So Dark?

Cinematographers and directors prioritise realism. Storytelling must now be authentic. Motivated lighting, which better simulates real-life surroundings, is commonly used to promote authenticity but it has its drawbacks. Read more…

And don't miss:

📖 Quick reads

14 Keanu Films Ranked

Keanu Reeves has become synonymous with action films, appearing in some of the most memorable of the twenty-first century. Here’s a list of 14 of Keanu Reeves' action films, ranked from worst to best.

10 Directors Known For Being Perfectionists

Several directors have earned the moniker "perfectionist" for their commitment to producing high-quality films. The label is neither good nor bad, but it’s an intriguing phenomenon worth investigating.

Napoleon: First Look

Apple collaborates with Sony to release Ridley Scott's historical biopic Napoleon in theatres on November 22nd, just in time for Thanksgiving. The film, stars Joaquin Phoenix as the titular character alongside Jodie Comer.

Oh, just one more thing…

📅 Back soon…

That'll do it for this issue. Hope you enjoyed the recommendations and insights. If you have any feedback or suggestions for future newsletters, feel free to send me a message. In the meantime, enjoy your viewing!

End of line.

– Lee