#TIFF: “SEVEN VEILS” TO PREMIERE AT TIFF ’23

TIFF is delighted to announce that legendary filmmaker Atom Egoyan returns to the Festival with the World Premiere of his latest work Seven Veils. The film stars Amanda Seyfried with Rebecca Liddiard, Douglas Smith, Mark O’Brien, and Vinessa Antoine. Also featured are Ambur Braid as Salome and Michael Kupfer-Radecky as John the Baptist, who both starred in the Canadian Opera Company’s most recent production of Salome, also directed by Egoyan, from which the film was inspired.

“We are honoured to premiere Atom Egoyan’s extraordinary film at this year’s Festival,” said Cameron Bailey, CEO, TIFF. “Egoyan’s cinematic works are unmatched, and we’re excited to bring Seven Veils to our TIFF audiences and to the city of Toronto, his home.”

Seven Veils is Egoyan’s 18th film to premiere at TIFF. Prior to the TIFF Special Presentation World Premiere screening on Sunday, September 10, an Avant-première of the film will be presented in partnership with the Canadian Opera Company on Friday, September 8, at 7pm at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts.

With Seven Veils, the Academy Award®–nominated Egoyan reunites with Seyfried (Chloe), who plays Jeanine, an earnest theatre director tasked with remounting her former mentor’s most famous work, the opera Salome. Haunted by dark and disturbing memories from her past, Jeanine allows her repressed trauma to colour the present as she re-enters the opera world after so many years away. Egoyan first directed Salome for the Canadian Opera Company in 1996 and returned earlier this year to revive the production on stage.

“Amanda is a phenomenal actress, and here she brilliantly plays a woman dealing with complex and explosive relationships in her past, present, and future,” said Egoyan. “To have the world premiere of this film at TIFF and to be partnering with the Canadian Opera Company really brings my two great passions together in such a beautiful way.”

“Atom’s production of Salome electrified the stage when it debuted in 1996 and has evolved with each remounting,” said producer Niv Fichman, Rhombus Media. “The opera explores themes that resonate through Atom’s body of work, and Seven Veils is an exciting and provocative next step in this ongoing evolution.”

Seven Veils is an Elevation Pictures and XYZ Films presentation, produced by Rhombus Media and Ego Film Arts, with the participation of Telefilm Canada and Ontario Creates, in association with IPR.VC, Cinetic Media, Crave, and the Canadian Opera Company. XYZ Films is handling world sales. Elevation Pictures will distribute the film in Canada.

More Festival details will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets for TIFF 2023 go on sale to TIFF Members by level beginning on August 18. For more details, visit tiff.net/join. The full Festival schedule will be released in August.

#FIRSTLOOK: “THE CROWDED ROOM” COMING TO APPLE TV+

Apple TV+ today debuted a first look at “The Crowded Room,” the gripping, limited series starring and executive produced by Tom Holland, and created by Academy Award-winning writer and executive producer Akiva Goldsman (“A Beautiful Mind”). Starring an ensemble cast led by Holland, Amanda Seyfried and Emmy Rossum, “The Crowded Room” will make its global debut on Apple TV+ with the first three episodes of its 10-episode first season on Friday, June 9, 2023, followed by one new episode weekly every Friday through July 28, 2023.

“The Crowded Room” follows ‘Danny Sullivan’ (Holland), a man who is arrested following his involvement in a shooting in New York City in 1979. A captivating thriller told through a series of interviews with curious interrogator ‘Rya Goodwin’ (Amanda Seyfried), Danny’s life story unfolds, revealing elements of the mysterious past that shaped him, and the twists and turns that will lead him to a life-altering revelation.

In addition to Holland, Seyfried and Rossum, the series stars Sasha Lane, Will Chase and Lior Raz along with guest stars Jason Isaacs, Christopher Abbott, Thomas Sadoski and Zachary Golinger.

“The Crowded Room” is a co-production between Apple Studios and New Regency. Goldsman serves as executive producer through his Weed Road Productions banner. The series is also executive produced by Alexandra Milchan for EMJAG Productions; and New Regency’s Arnon Milchan, Yariv Milchan and Michael Schaefer. Kornel Mundruczo directed several episodes, including the pilot, and executive produces.

Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favourite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honoured with 348 wins and 1,436 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”

#SPOTTED: AMANDA SEYFRIED IN TORONTO AT COMEDY BAR FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Fresh-off her Golden Globe win for her superb performance in THE DROPOUT, Amanda Seyfried is back in-town and she reunits with Atom Egoyan on his latest film THE SEVEN VEILS, wrapping this month in Toronto.

The Drama centers on an earnest theatre director named Jeanine (Amanda Seyfried), who has been given the task of remounting her former mentor’s most famous work, the opera “Salome“. Haunted by dark and disturbing memories from her past, Jeanine allows her repressed trauma to color the present as she re-enters the opera world after so many years away. Seyfried last collaborated with Egoyan on 2009’s CHLOE, which we loved. SEVEN VEILS will be released by Elevation Pictures in Canada.

Seyfried while in-town did some good on International Women’s Day raising money for Redwood Women’s Shelter. The event titled “ALL THAT SHE WANTS” was held at Comedy Bar, with her making an appearance to draw awareness to the cause.

We’ve always remembered her as being amazing and kind and she has not changed. On working with Egoyan again, she tells me “Atom is the f*cking best!”.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

#SPOTTED: JOSH RADNOR AT WAR CHILD CANADA’S “THE WORLD THAT’S POSSIBLE” GALA

WAR CHILD CANADA held its THE WORLD THAT’S POSSIBLE Gala last night at The Royal Ontario Museum. With a star-studded roster of names, the affair raised funds in support of the millions of children and families impacted by war and violence in Afghanistan, Yemen, Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda, and Iraq.

Dining on a menu crafted by both Chef Mark McEwan and Chef Shen Ousmand of the Aga Khan Museum, guests enjoyed performances by the likes of Metric, Josh Radnor (How I Met Your Mother) and Chantal Kreviazuk, the latter honoured with the Founder’s Award for her work with the organization. Originally slated to attend were War Child Ambassadors Amanda Seyfried and husband Thomas Sadoski, along with JP Saxe, although obligations held them from making in to Toronto. Deborah Cox, who had received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame this past weekend, also made an appearance.

The evening was hosted by ET Canada‘s Sangita Patel and also included a Silent Auction.

Radnor graced the audience wth a special appearance and acoustic performance on guitar and can be seen most recently on Apple TV+‘s acclaimed new Series FLEISHMAN IS IN TROUBLE, alongside Claire Danes, Lizzy Caplan and Jesse Eisenberg. So gracious of him for one, to come to our City in a rare appearance, but also to stop for a quick Photo while in the scramble looking for his SUV.

More on the organization and event here.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

#FIRSTLOOK: BOOKING.COM SPONSORS TIME100 SUMMIT & GALA

BOOKING.COM was an official signature sponsor of the TIME100 Summit and Gala at Lincoln Center in New York, which included stars like Toronto’s own Simu Liu!  The site is one of the largest travel marketplaces for both established brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes, enabling properties all over the world to reach a global audience and grow their businesses.

Booking.com aimed to further support getting important topics the increased attention they need and deserve while also providing travel inspiration for Summit & Gala attendees. The events brought together a cast of past and present TIME100 honorees and other influential figures  from the worlds of art, culture, politics and entertainment with Booking.com polling the influential attendees on their summer travel plans via a survey at the brand’s dedicated activation space at Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Key insights include:

-Sustainability efforts at accommodations play a strong role in TIME100 event attendee’s vacation decisions, with 50% of survey respondents saying they would select one property over another if it had Booking.com’s Travel Sustainable badge.

-TIME100 event respondents said they prefer to stay at vacation rentals over hotels (62%).

-Trips where travelers get to enjoy the outdoors was the preference for TIME100 attendees with 46% of respondents wanting to take a beach vacation this summer and 41% wanting to take any type of nature trip.

-Experiencing local culture is TIME100 event respondents main motivation to travel this summer (37%), with relaxation not far behind at 32%.

-When asked what destination was top of the list this summer, Greece, Italy, Spain, Mexico, Colorado and Puerto Rico were the most popular among TIME100 event attendee survey respondents.

Some of the A-Listers at the affair:

(Photo credit: Booking.com)

#FIRSTLOOK: “THE DROPOUT”

By Mr. Will Wong

If there’s one thing we’ve learned about 2022, it’s that we can’t get enough of fraudsters. Following the release Inventing Anna and The Tinder Swindler, Director Michael Showalter (The Eyes of Tammy Faye) tackles the scandal surrounding convict Elizabeth Holmes. The eight-episode Series chronicles her rise from a Stanford dropout to her hustle bringing her health technology company Theranos, up to a valuation of $10 billion at its peak. And then there’s her eventual downfall, now facing up to 20 years (sentencing to take place this fall) in jail after being found guilty of defrauding investors. The Series explores the peak of greed in Silicon Valley and its consequences.

The Series is based on the Podcast of the same name by Rebecca Jarvis and we must admit, is an entertaining watch. We meet Holmes‘ (Amanda Seyfried), witnessing her transformation from her youth including her time in China showing-off her Chinese-Mandarin, meeting businessman Sunny Balwani (Naveen Andrews). The two would begin an affair spanning several years, which saw Balwani sign-on as Chief Operating Officer at Theranos, with Holmes the Chief Executive Officer. From there we see a toxic relationship, which propelled the wildfire that was Theranos, the company claiming to revolutionize blood testing with small volumes of blood – later proven false – and had prepared to launch itself into popular drug store chains across America.

The Dropout succeeds in keeping us in engaged, uncovering the juicy details that led to Holmes‘ downfall, brought to light by Wall Street Journal journalist John Carreyrou (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) in his 2015 exposé. This, as we see Holmes focus on leading her company and garnering accolades, become an inspiration for aspiring female entrepreneurs. As her company begins to crumble beneath her and once-loyal personnel begin to exit, Theranos‘ scientific credibility is challenged, with real people suffering the consequences of inaccurate blood testing.

Seyfried rises to the tough challenge of taking us on this wild ride through the darkly comedic aspects of “rah-rah” start-up company culture, going against the grain of the older male-dominated corporate culture. It is a marvel seeing her transformation as she embraces her CEO role, lowering her voice, embodying Holmes‘ denial and desperation as she is constantly dangling on a thread with the truth always dangerously close to being exposed. Andrews also is captivating and scary, emotionally dependent and vulnerable with Holmes in their most intimate moments, but also a raging tyrant. This, and a phenomenal and diverse Supporting Cast including the likes of Stephen Fry, Laurie Metcalf, William H. Macy, Sam Waterston, Alan Ruck, Dylan Minnette, LisaGay Hamilton and several more, make this an easy watch.

Disney+ subscribers are in for a treat as the first three episodes of THE DROPOUT arrive March 3, 2022, with new episodes to arrive weekly.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “THINGS HEARD & SEEN”

Oscar nominee Amanda Seyfried is back in the Thriller THINGS HEARD & SEEN. See this gripping new Trailer!

Synopsis:

Catherine Clare (Academy Award®-nominee Amanda Seyfried) reluctantly trades life in 1980s Manhattan for a remote home in the tiny hamlet of Chosen, New York, after her husband George (James Norton) lands a job teaching art history at a small Hudson Valley college. Even as she does her best to transform the old dairy farm into a place where young daughter Franny will be happy, Catherine increasingly finds herself isolated and alone. She soon comes to sense a sinister darkness lurking both in the walls of the ramshackle property—and in her marriage to George. Based on the acclaimed novel by Elizabeth Brundage, THINGS HEARD & SEEN is written and directed by Academy Award®-nominated filmmakers Robert Pulcini and Shari Springer Berman (American Splendor). Also starring Natalia Dyer (Stranger Things), Rhea Seehorn (Better Call Saul), Karen Allen (Raiders of the Lost Ark) and Academy Award®-winner F. Murray Abraham (Amadeus).

See the Trailer:

THINGS HEARD & SEEN arrives on Netflix April 29, 2021.

(Photo/video credit: Netflix)

#FIRSTLOOK: WHAT TO WATCH – DECEMBER 2020: “MANK”,”HAPPIEST SEASON”,”GODMOTHERED”, “SOUND OF METAL”, “SHAWN MENDES: IN WONDER”, “BLACK BEAUTY”, “THE CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES: PART TWO”, “SMALL AXE”, “SELENA: THE SERIES”, “ALL MY LIFE”, “MARIAH CAREY’S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS SPECIAL”, “FABULOUS LIVES OF BOLLYWOOD WIVES”, “SUGAR RUSH: EXTRA SWEET”, “EUPHORIA”, “THE UNDOING”, “STYLISH WITH JENNA LYONS”, “THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT”

With both the Holidays and Awards Season approaching, December can be a joyous time indeed for us with a big slate of new releases to surface. Here’s some of our recommendations across various screening platforms, including some theatrical releases!

HAPPIEST SEASON (EONE FILMS/AMAZON PRIME VIDEO)

Clea Duvall co-writes and directs this Holiday Rom-Com with a fresh take on expanding the idea the type of relationships the genre includes. Kristen Stewart stars as Abby, who is ready to propose to her live-in girlfriend Harper (Mackenzie Davis) as they get ready to spend the Holidays at the latter’s home for the first time. There is one hitch, Harper still hasn’t officially come out to them yet despite telling Abby she did, and that it went well. The daughter of a politician, image is everything for her family and this keeps holding her back from being her true self and matters get confused as former flames resurface in the visit which make the couple question their commitment to one another.

While ultimately meant to be heartwarming, tonally Duvall goes to heavier places as the couple gets pulled apart and its message is something the world needs a bit more of, hence its release is timely. Stewart has a knack for bringing her characters a ton of history and her Abby feels truly lived-in, while Davis spends much of the Film embattled in Harper‘s fears and in the shadow of her rival sister Sloane (Alison Brie). Canada’s Dan Levy delivers some much-needed comedic relief as Abby‘s confidante John and we wish the Film had even more of that. That being said, this is a Holiday story which many will identify with and feel seen by. And who knows, Stewart just might win over even more new fans here!

eOne Films release HAPPIEST SEASON Digitally and On-Demand Friday, November 26, 2020. It arrives on Amazon Prime Video Thursday, December 10, 2020.

GODMOTHERED (DISNEY+)

We knew very little until only recently about this latest effort from Sharon Maguire (Bridget Jones’s Diary, Bridget Jones’s Baby) and now we can’t imagine life before it. Right in time for the Holidays comes this whimsical and fantastical Comedy which centers on Eleanor (Jillian Bell) who is out to prove to the world that Fairy Godmothers are needed. She finds a letter written by Mackenzie (Isla Fisher) when she was 10-years-old, only to realize now that she has grown into a widowed, 40-year-old single mother of two, stuck in a job at a newsroom with a miserable boss. Needless to say, she’s given-up a little on the “happily ever after” she dreamed of as a girl. Eleanor, whether Mackenzie wants it or not, is here to grant her wish but we wonder if Eleanor ever be more than just a Tooth Fairy with this challenging task ahead!

Bell is an absolute joy, hitting what is a sweet spot in her career after last year’s acclaimed Brittany Runs a Marathon. She brings a Will Ferrell-Elf-esque enthusiasm and curiosity to the world which is infectious. Fisher also is a pleasure to watch as she channels Mackenzie‘s cynicism in a way many of us see the world right now. Maguire manages to craft a magical experience which lifts the spirits, yet balancing what it means to expand our definition of what happily ever after means and who it involves in our lives and we’re here for this.

GODMOTHERED arrives on Disney+ Friday, December 4, 2020.

MANK (NETFLIX)

Prior to his passing, Screenwriter and father of David, Jack Fincher, had completed a Script for MANK, based the life of Herman J. Mankiewicz, also a Screenwriter.After many years in incubation as a passion project, the Film finally got made by the younger Fincher. The Film recounts its titular character’s well-documented fight to get credit for co-writing what would go on to be one of the greatest films ever made, CITIZEN KANE.Mank (Gary Oldman), who prior had been brought aboard to help as a Script Doctor on The Wizard of Oz – without credit – isn’t particularly a likable type. He’s an alcoholic, a gambling addict and in fact, others call his wife “Poor Sarah” (Tuppence Middleton). Mank’s outspoken in his political beliefs and his support of Democrat Upton Sinclair, who is viewed by powerful Hollywood types as a Socialist. This puts him at odds with the powers that be. He’s tasked with helping co-write CITIZEN KANE, which Orson Welles (Tom Burke) produced, starred, directed and co-wrote. From here, we see a heated battle between Welles and the unpopular Mank as the latter fights to secure himself a credit on the eventual masterpiece. More so, we see how the battles within his own life found their place in CITIZEN KANE – his alcoholism, going against the machine and career sabotage. Mank had nothing to left to lose, refusing to go down without a fight. And we’re here for it.

While the Film might not be for everyone, it is a must-watch for true Cinephiles and those obsessed with the history of Cinema. Fincher‘s direction and some of the performances are meticulously-faithful to the period. Carrying almost all of the weight is Oldman who transforms completely and he mesmerizes in the manner of passersby staring at a car crash on a highway. We are concerned for and empathetic of the driver in the wreckage. Amanda Seyfried plays actress Marion Davies, whom Mank befriends. She is the mistress of William Randolph Hearst (Charles Dance), a media mogul and backer of MGM who inspires the character Susan Alexander, albeit an untalented entertainer and second wife of the titular character in CITIZEN KANE. Seyfried is so committed, poised and sweet that what Mank does feels like a huge betrayal.

This certainly is a Film which Awards Season was made for and just may replicate the Oscars success which CITIZEN KANE achieved. MANK arrives on Netflix Friday, December 4, 2020.

SHAWN MENDES: IN WONDER (NETFLIX)

Fan of Pickering’s Shawn Mendes will revel in delight at this Documentary by veteran Music Video Director Grant Singer. The Singer-Songwriter rapidly has shot to stardom and makes his first foray into the world of Film with recent collaborations with TIFF and now this companion to his upcoming fourth Disc, WONDER coming early December. The Film gives us an intimate (literally we go right into the shower with him) look at his daily life, which really presents him as someone who is level-headed and taking his fame into stride. In one scene he is driving around downtown and a man asks him roll-down his window to give his daughter a video shoutout. We learn about Mendes‘ creative process writing material for the new Album and he goes back to older, soulful influences this time around and one thing I found particularly interesting is to protect his voice from the rigours of touring, he takes vocal rests finding alternate ways to communicate on rest days. While nothing earth-shattering is revealed here really, it is an essential watch for fans or those who appreciate his Music and believe me, there are many! SHAWN MENDES: IN WONDER arrives on Netflix Tuesday, November 24, 2020.

SOUND OF METAL (PACIFIC NORTHWEST PICTURES/AMAZON PRIME)

Riz Ahmed delivers a career-best performance in Darius Marder‘s SOUND OF METAL,which after a run on the Festival circuit, including TIFF ’19 gets its debut at long last. Ahmed plays Drummer Ruben Stone whose hearing rapidly is deteriorating and after battling heroine addiction for years, he now is sober. While resisting help from the Deaf Community, the Film centers itself on his humbling journey accepting help, with the urging of his bandmate girlfriend Lou (Olivia Cooke). Ruben is his own enemy in many regards and at the core of SOUND OF METAL which while being set in the chaotic world of screamy Death Growls, is something heartfelt and a meaningful coming-of-age.

Ahmed and Cooke disappear completely into Ruben and Lou and their transformations are sympathetic and affecting. A bit of a slow-burn but a rewarding watch.

Pacific Northwest Pictures release SOUND OF METAL in theatres Friday, November 20, 2020 and it arrives on Amazon Prime Video in the U.S. and it is available digitally and on-demand in Canada Friday, December 4, 2020.

Don’t forget to read our Chat with Ahmed here.

BLACK BEAUTY (DISNEY+)

Anna Sewell’s BLACK BEAUTY is a love story that captures the bond between human and animal so beautifully that it should come as no surprise that it still stands the test of time some 143 years after it was written. Ashley Avis, formerly a competitive Equestrian, takes the reins on Disney+‘s adaptation of the story for a new audience. Along with this heartfelt timeless tale, we get updated messaging and more inclusion in casting.

This version centers on Jo Green (Mackenzie Foy), who is sent to live with her Uncle John (Iain Glen). While she is reluctant to warm-up to him, she does strike a bond with his filly (narrated by Kate Winslet) a wild Mustang who is acquired to be broken-in and sold. The horse changes Jo‘s life forever, helping her find herself but circumstances separate the two and we wonder if they ever will reunite again as she is treated like a commodity, changing hands multiple times.

Foy as always is great and she is fascinating to see develop into a dramatic actress and while we appreciate how the Film treats animal rights with the right delicateness and sympathy it deserves, ultimately it is paced in a way where things happen a couple beats too quickly, without fleshing-out key characters and their involvement with the Plot. And at times, the dialogue feels perhaps too simplistic even though we appreciate that the Film caters to a young audience. That being said, Winslet’s narration tugs on all the right heartstrings and you do feel something for her and her beloved friend, Jo.

BLACK BEAUTY arrives on Disney+ Friday, November 27, 2020.

THE CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES: PART TWO (NETFLIX)

If there’s anyone who knows the spirit of nostalgia, it’s Director Chris Columbus who has brought us classics like Adventures in Babysitting, Home Alone (1 and 2), Mrs. Doubtfire and a litany of others. He directs and co-writes the sequel to 2018’s popular The Christmas Chronicles and while the first Film was very enjoyable, this installment has a wondrous, fantastical element to it that truly captures the joy of the Holidays.

Back again are Kate (Darby Camp) and Teddy (Judah Lewis) as they find themselves spending Christmas on a resort with their mom Claire (Kimberly Williams-Paisley), her new boyfriend Bob (Tyrese) and his son Jack (Jahzir Bruno). Kate is faced with the fear of her deceased father being forgotten and wishes to escape and together with Jack, they find themselves transported off to the North Pole with Santa (Kurt Russell) and Mrs. Claus (Goldie Hawn), where the elves have gone out of control. One elf gone rogue, Belsnickel (Julian Dennison) threatens to ruin Christmas forever with the potential of a world without a Santa Claus. It is up to Kate and Jack to help save Christmas and also, will Kate get her long-awaited wish of finally getting to see her father?

THE CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES: PART TWO is none short of the boisterous, sparkly fun we’re totally here for. The Film belongs entirely to Camp and Russell who both are fantastic and Hawn is a welcome addition to the Franchise, a perfect warm and nurturing Mrs. Claus. Hijinx aside, the Film hits all the right notes emotionally, feeling exactly like a Holiday film should! We wouldn’t be surprised if this got several viewings this Holiday season. Streaming now on Netflix.

SMALL AXE (AMAZON PRIME VIDEO)

It’s been a minute since we’ve heard from Academy Award-winning Director Steven McQueen (12 Years a Slave, Shame, Widows), but he’s back with an innovating new Mini-Series of five Films centering on the West Indian-immigrant experience in London in the ’60s and ’70s. While the subject matter is timely, with #BlackLivesMatter being at the forefront of discussion this past year, McQueen’s storytelling is timeless as we are transported right into the era.

The first Film in the Series, Mangrove, is about nine black activists arrest for inciting a riot after police had targeted a restaurant of the same name in Notting Hill. In a fight for their rights and the rights of the future generation, the group choose to represent themselves in court. What plays out is an intense court battle featuring some truly compelling performances from Shaun Parkes (Doctor Who), Malachi Kirby (Black Mirror) and Letitia Wright (Black Panther). McQueen masterfully examines racial hatred from both sides of the argument and this is a fantastic start to the Series.

The second Film, Lovers Rock is a sensual Romance set within a party where we meet Martha (Amarah-Jae St. Aubyn) who sneaks out of her bedroom at night, and Franklyn (Michael Ward). The lighting is gorgeous and we are swept away into their looming love affair. McQueen has a masterful way of transporting us into the moment through music and the scenes just breathe beautifully as the songs play. While most of the story is set within the party itself, he paints a picture of the world these characters are living in at the time when we get brief glimpses of how unsafe things can get just stepping away from that safety net.

The remainder of the films arrive December 4, 2020 on Amazon Prime Video.

SELENA: THE SERIES (NETFLIX)

Throughout the late ’80s and early ’90s, Selena became the queen of Tejano music. Managed by her father and supported by her siblings in her band, this tight-knit family went from performing at weddings, while living on the road to Selena becoming one of the most successful Latin artists of all time. That is, before she was murdered in 1995 at the age of 23, by the manager of her boutiques. This happened tragically, just as she was set to launch internationally with her debut English album.

The detail-obsessed Series is crafted heavily with the input of the Quintanilla family so what we get here are ten quick-moving episodes that recount the family’s struggles from having very little, but were ignited by an undying commitment and belief in themselves. Rather than being entirely focused on Selena, we get the story from all sides of the family and we truly feel the tension between them in how tightly-knit they were. Fantastic performances from our lead Christian Serratos (The Walking Dead) and Ricardo Chavira (Desperate Housewives). Even at the end of the ten episodes the complete story isn’t told, cleverly leaving room for a second season. A must-watch for fans and intriguing enough to win over new fans who aren’t familiar with Selena‘s legacy.

SELENA: THE SERIES streams Friday, December 4, 2020 on Netflix.

ALL MY LIFE (UNIVERSAL PICTURES CANADA)

Based on a true story that happened right here in Toronto, ALL MY LIFE recounts the tale of a young couple, Solomon (Harry Shum Jr.) and Jennifer (Jessica Rothe). The couple whom after receiving tragic news, still forge ahead with plans to have a fairy tale wedding with the help of their friends who help them raise the funds to make it happen.

Marc Meyers (My Friend Dahmer) directs this tale which at times tugs on the heartstrings, but in moving along rapidly, misses the opportunity to delve deep into the couple’s love and their struggles during Solomon’s health battles which could’ve made this a bit more impactful, giving us more to root for. A solid performance from Rothe (Happy Death Day) in the lead role, though we wish a bit more room was given for the talented Supporting Cast which includes Jay Pharaoh (Saturday Night Live), Keala Settle (The Greatest Showman) and Mario Cantone (Sex and the City). There is definitely an audience for a Film like this.

ALL MY LIFE opens in theatres Friday, December 4, 2020. Please ensure you observe COVID-19 protocols if seeing this in theatres.

MARIAH CAREY’S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS SPECIAL (APPLE TV+)

Based on the premise that 2020 has been… not so great, the Queen of Christmas, Mariah Carey is here to help save Christmas. Joining her on this 45-minute adventure is an understandably starstruck Billy Eichner as Santa‘s Assistant, with a story narrated by Tiffany Haddish. Several famous friends join Carey including Ariana Grande and Jennifer Hudson on a new rendition of Oh Santa!, which stands a chance at being a successor to modern classic All I Want for Christmas is You! The Peanuts Gang also make an appearance as do the likes of Snoop Dogg and long-time collaborator Jermaine Dupri. While festive and well-being including a touching rendition of Silent Night, the Special’s emotional high note is its Encore, where Carey delivers an extra festive Aspen-set performance of her biggest Holiday smash and her twins Moroccan and Monroe even come on out to support their Mom! We live for this and even if another Carey Holiday Special doesn’t come for a while, this one will do on-rotation! Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special streams now on Apple TV+.

EUPHORIA: TROUBLE DON’T LAST ALWAYS (HBO/CRAVE)

While it’ll be a while till we see Season Two of HBO‘s Euphoria, two special Holiday episodes of the acclaimed Series are amidst us, to tie us over. Director/Writer Sam Levinson goes deep as we ponder the Holidays with Rue (a recent Emmy-winning Zendaya) and her friend Ali (Colman Domingo) where they question their existence and what it means to cope with addiction, sobriety and some of the destructive things they had done in their lives to the ones who love them. Rue is coping with Jules (Hunter Schafer) leaving her, which leads her on a downward spiral again. Phenomenal, intimate performances in what feels like it could’ve been a stage production. A reminder that the Holidays aren’t a happy time for everyone. The first special episode is available to stream now on Crave with the HBO add-on, with the second arriving January 2021.

SUGAR RUSH CHRISTMAS SEASON 2 (NETFLIX)

You know how much we love our baking shows and we’re so delighted SUGAR RUSH is back for a second season with its Christmas edition. Lots of exciting and exhilarating baking challenges here in this second season where contestants are challenged with tasks like making creations inspired by Christmas Carols, the North Pole, Advent Calendars, Peanuts and more. The finished products as always look to-die-for and we wish we could taste everything too! Celebrity guests include Chris Bosh, Abigail Breslin, Jordin Sparks, among others! Adore this. Season 2 is streaming now.

FABULOUS LIVES OF BOLLYWOOD WIVES (NETFLIX)

We’re told Bollywood is different from Hollywood in that Bollywood stars maintain much more mystique than many of those stars those in Hollywood who have embraced oversharing on Social Media. This new Series comprised of eight episodes, takes us right inside the worlds of Neelam Kothari Soni, Maheep Kapoor, Seema Khan and Bhavana Pandey, whom are longtime best friends and among Bollywood’s elite. With a Kardashians-like view, we get a glimpse into their glamorous, although they consider it mundane, lives. All isn’t always rosy as passions too flare at times as these friends too have unresolved issues that get brought to the table. Don’t know much about the world of Bollywood? Don’t worry, they explain these relationships well and drama knows no cultural boundaries. Maheep is the loud, assertive one. Neelam is a former Actress pondering relaunching her career. Seema is all about protecting her family even though we understand her husband isn’t always around. Bhavna plays Devil’s Advocate which can be problematic when a friend wants her support. Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Lives is streaming now on Netflix.

THE UNDOING (HBO/CRAVE)

This six-part Mini-Series directed by Susanne Bier and and written by David E. Kelley, is adapted from the Novel You Should Have Known by Jean Hanff Korelitz. The Undoing centers on a privileged family, Jonathan (Hugh Grant), Grace (Nicole Kidman) and their son Henry (Noah Jupe) who are impacted in the aftermath of a woman’s death. With Jonathan standing accused of murder, Grace is left to put together the pieces how her husband could have been done this. The story masterfully twists and turns as we no longer know what to believe and who is reliable right up to the gripping conclusion.

Phenomenal work as expected from Kidman who is forced to dig deep and find the truth, leaning on her father Franklin (a strong performance by Donald Sutherland) for guidance. Jupe is coming into his own as a fine Actor with a goodheartedness that makes it all the more unbelievable that such a grounded family could be dealing with something so awful. Grant is the biggest surprise here and while we’re used to seeing him in Holiday movies around this time of year. Looking back, it all makes perfect sense.

THE UNDOING streams now on Crave with the HBO add-on.

STYLISH WITH JENNA LYONS (HBO MAX/CRAVE)

Better known as “The Woman Who Dressed America” at the height of J.Crew‘s popularity, the retailer’s former President Jenna Lyons is a fashion icon in her own right. Since her time with J.Crew had ended, she’s been a bit more on the quiet side, but she’s back as she makes her foray into Home Design and Beauty. She’s looking to add to her Team and goes on a search for the next Associate as fresh new talent have a chance to prove they have what it takes to work with her on this eight-episode Series. What is interesting is that the finalists must work against unconventional conditions as the competition is halted amidst the Pandemic and picks-up again, forcing Lyons to alter her course. We love the assured way in which she speaks and mentors, which comes with a gentle grace and assuredness. The Series gets intimate as was also learn about her life and her own challenges. STYLISH WITH JENNA LYONS is available to stream now on Crave with the HBO add-on.

THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT (HBO MAX/CRAVE)

Cassie (Kaley Cuoco) is a flight attendant coping with Alcoholism, living her life recklessly between stop-offs. On a flight to Bangkok, she meets a handsome stranger in Alex (Michiel Huisman) and after an enchanting, alcohol-fueled night out, she wakes-up to find him dead in the bed beside her. As she runs away from the situation, trying to stay under the radar, she must confront her past, her addiction and relationships, and gets to know Alex better as he surfaces as an apparition to her. The Series has a chaotic energy to it which keeps things fun and lively, and Cuoco is a perfect casting choice. Also Girls’ Zosia Mamet surfaces as Cassie‘s delightfully-funny lawyer/best friend Annie. THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT streams on Crave with HBO add-on, new episodes weekly.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “MANK”

Just as Awards Season begins to kick-off we get this Trailer for David Fincher‘s MANK starring Gary Oldman!

Synopsis:

1930s Hollywood is re-evaluated through the eyes of scathing social critic and alcoholic screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz as he races to finish the screenplay of Citizen Kane for Orson Welles.

Cast:
GARY OLDMAN as HERMAN J. MANKIEWICZ
AMANDA SEYFRIED as MARION DAVIES
LILY COLLINS as RITA ALEXANDER
ARLISS HOWARD as LOUIS B. MAYER
TOM PELPHREY as JOE MANKIEWICZ
SAM TROUGHTON as JOHN HOUSEMAN
FERDINAND KINGSLEY as IRVING THALBERG
TUPPENCE MIDDLETON as SARA MANKIEWICZ
TOM BURKE as ORSON WELLES
JOSEPH CROSS as CHARLES LEDERER
JAMIE McSHANE as SHELLY METCALF
TOBY LEONARD MOORE as DAVID O. SELZNICK
MONIKA GOSSMANN as FRAULEIN FREDA
and CHARLES DANCE as WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST

See the Trailer:

Netflix release MANK in select theatres November and it streams globally Friday, December 4, 2020.

(Photo/video credit: Netflix)

#GIVEAWAY: ENTER TO WIN ADVANCE PASSES TO SEE “THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN”

20th Century Fox Canada x Mr. Will want to give Toronto Readers a chance to see THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN! Screening takes place Thursday, August 1, 2019 in Toronto., Vancouver and Montreal. A French screening will be held Wednesday, August 7, 2019.

 

SYNOPSIS:

Based on the best-selling novel by Garth Stein, THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN is a heartfelt tale narrated by a witty and philosophical dog named Enzo (voiced by Kevin Costner). Through his bond with his owner, Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia), an aspiring Formula One race car driver, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition and understands that the techniques needed on the racetrack can also be used to successfully navigate the journey of life. The film follows Denny and the loves of his life – his wife, Eve (Amanda Seyfried), their young daughter Zoe (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and ultimately, his true best friend, Enzo.

 

See the Trailer:

 

Artwork:

 

To enter to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK and indicate your City. Re-Tweet this Tweet from @mrwillw for an extra chance.

20th Century Fox Canada release THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN Friday, August 9, 2019.

 

(Photo/video credit: 20th Century Fox Canada)