Five years after surprising us with a stellar remake of A Star Is Born, Bradley Cooper comes back with Maestro. His sophomore feature follows the true story of Leonard Bernstein and his wife Felicia (Carey Mulligan). Cooper, who also returns as producer and co-writer (with Josh Singer), plays Bernstein with a spirit as high as … Continue reading Middleburg: ‘Maestro’ – Bradley Cooper’s Sophomore Effort Is A Beautiful, Imperfect Symphony
The Idol – Episode 5 – Finale – ‘Jocelyn Forever’ Recap
What was one of the year's most interesting shows stumbles to the end. While the art of Abel "The Weeknd" Tesfaye and Sam Levinson continues to hit on some interesting ideas, it has almost nothing to say about them. Add tonal inconsistency and a non-sensical plot, and you found The Idol gasping to be put … Continue reading The Idol – Episode 5 – Finale – ‘Jocelyn Forever’ Recap
‘The Idol’ – Episode 3 – “Daybreak” Recap
After a sexually explicit Episode 2, Tedros made more headway into Jocelyn’s life. Her team did an abysmal job of keeping her close. Instead, he found an in-roads while boosting her confidence. To this point, The Idol has not asked much of Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye apart from his songwriting. However, Episode 3, “Daybreak,” puts … Continue reading ‘The Idol’ – Episode 3 – “Daybreak” Recap
‘The Idol’ – Episode 2 – “Double Fantasy” Recap
Already one of the most controversial shows on cable and streaming, The Idol made a splash. Lily-Rose Depp received raves, but the rest of the series struggled. The talent is all over the ensemble. The problem seems squarely on Sam Levinson and Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye. While the show continues their aesthetics and interests, it’s … Continue reading ‘The Idol’ – Episode 2 – “Double Fantasy” Recap
Tribeca 2023: ‘Lost Soulz’ – A Deeply Introspective Vision of the Road to Fame
In 2013, American Honey provided a unique vision of growing up in America. Its characters came from around the country but represented a generation struggling to make their way. The powerful road-trip film forced audiences to confront race, sexuality, and oppression within a microcosm. Lost Soulz, from director Katherine Propper, makes a strong case to … Continue reading Tribeca 2023: ‘Lost Soulz’ – A Deeply Introspective Vision of the Road to Fame
Tribeca 2023: ‘Songs About Fucking’ – Journey Into Marc Rebillet’s Superstardom
The rise of new social media platforms opened doors for new celebrities. As Covid left many searching for joy and virtual connection, a surprising voice emerged from the ether. Marc Rebillet grew a fast following on YouTube and Twitch. By the time TikTok launched, his work had been perfected for short-form content. In 2021, his … Continue reading Tribeca 2023: ‘Songs About Fucking’ – Journey Into Marc Rebillet’s Superstardom
The Idol – Episode 1 – “Pop Tarts & Rat Tales” Recap
The controversial Sam Levinson and Abel Tesfaye, a.k.a. “The Weeknd,” feel like a match made in heaven. They both love Hollywood glitz. They often explore the darker sides of sex and pleasure. Neither hits 100% with their target audiences. You would argue they often alienate their fans. Yet at the same time, both find ways … Continue reading The Idol – Episode 1 – “Pop Tarts & Rat Tales” Recap
Review: ‘Personality Crisis: One Night Only’ – An Evening with a NY Punk Legend
Punk Rock has several sad stories like the New York Dolls. Even at their height, they seemed to be haunted by tragedy. After Billy Murica passed away in 1972, the band pushed through the grief. They released two cult classic albums over the next few years, led by lead singer David Johansen. An icon across … Continue reading Review: ‘Personality Crisis: One Night Only’ – An Evening with a NY Punk Legend
Review: ‘Chevalier’ – Nice Time for a Personal Revolution
Even during revolutions, some who break the most barriers find themselves deemed too radical. During the French Revolution in the late 18th Century, new democratic ideas spread throughout the country. While many new ideas led to enlightenment within the country, the door for upward mobility cracked open. However, racism still held firm, leaving the works … Continue reading Review: ‘Chevalier’ – Nice Time for a Personal Revolution
2023 Florida Film Fest: ‘Immediate Family’ Gives the Spotlight Background Musicians
As the story of modern rock music continues to evolve, a strong spotlight has been placed on those in the shadows. Documentaries like 20 Feet From Stardom and Squaring the Circle: The Story of Hipgnosis have highlighted these contributions. Immediate Family looks to do the same. Putting session musicians into the spotlight is not a … Continue reading 2023 Florida Film Fest: ‘Immediate Family’ Gives the Spotlight Background Musicians