It continues to be a hot month and what better way to stay cool than staying-in and streaming it till we make it out of this pandemic?

INDIAN MATCHMAKING (NETFLIX)

This eight-episode Series was a surprise delight! Often the term “arranged marriage” has a negative connotation. What INDIAN MATCHMAKING sets-out to do successfully is explaining the challenges that this generation of single people of Indian descent face in finding a life partner. In turning to their cultural traditions in finding romance, we see how this works in a modern framework in a world that is entirely different from that of their parents. Leading the way is world-renowned Matchmaker Sima Taparia who is tasked with finding fits for men and women in the U.S. and in India. Some individuals are a bit more challenging than others to pair, but we love joining them along the way in the process. If anything, you should walk away from this experience feeling more informed in understanding the nuances of how socioeconomic status, astrology, faith, age and even how despite being Indian how there are so many divisions which dictate one’s romantic fate. In one storyline, we see an effervescent Guyanese-American woman named Nadia struggles finding an Indian man as she often isn’t considered “Indian” despite sharing the same ancestry. While some storylines aren’t tied-up quite as well as others as new characters get introduced throughout the Series, this leaves potential for a forthcoming season and we’re totally in!

DOWN TO EARTH WITH ZAC EFRON (NETFLIX)

This eight-episode Series is something we didn’t realize we would enjoy so much. Idol Zac Efron pairs with buddy Darin Oilen to travel around different parts of the world to understand how they are consuming energy and food differently from the United States. The conscious Series blends many of the obvious reasons one would want to look at shirtless Zac Efron with an awareness that we can all grab takeaways from in how we look at consumption in our own lives. The duo visit Iceland, France, Costa Rica, Lima, Puerto Rico, Sardinia, London and Iquitos and have some fun along the way going outside their comfort zones. There’s even a famous face or two along the way who join them, like Anna Kendrick! The explanations are clear and simple and this was an innovative, entertaining way to speak to a younger audience about issues that are important to our future.

FATAL AFFAIR (NETFLIX)

We admit it – we love crazy, over-the-top “fatal attraction”-type flicks. They usually are packed with thrills, the right amount of juiciness and end with a feeling of catharsis, because the obsessed one usually never survives and we can go once again to our mundane lives. The Thriller centers on former flames Ellie (Nia Long) and David (Omar Epps) who reunite one day by chance (or not) at the former’s work place. They decide to catch-up over drinks and after Ellie confesses she feels distanced from her husband Michael (Stephen Bishop), things heat-up as their passions ignite. David still is not over Ellie clearly and keeps surfacing unwelcomed and Ellie learns some dark secrets about his past that had occurred in the years they were apart. Soon Ellie and her family find themselves in danger as he infiltrates their lives. Peter Sullivan (Secret Obsession) directs and co-writes this Film which is pegged where right it should be as an at-home release. While introducing nothing new to the genre, we still got a rush and wish it went even more over-the-top and gave us a bit more David as we wanted better to understand his obsession and the whys.

THE OLD GUARD (NETFLIX)

Charlize Theron is back and ready to kick some ass. This Superhero-Drama directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (Beyond the Lights) and based on Greg Rucka‘s Comic Book of the same name. The story is about a group of immortal mercenaries consisting of Andy (Theron), Booker (Matthias Schoenaerts), Joe (Marwan Kenzari) and Nicky (Luca Marinelli), who are sent to Sudan to rescue a group of kidnapped children, only to realize that they were set-up to be exposed by former CIA Operative James Copley (Chiwetel Ejiofor). Joining them is Nile Freeman (KiKi Layne), a Marine whom after getting fatally-wounded in Afghanistan, realizes her own immortality and Andy is able to track her down and help protect her, assisting her in harnessing her new-found power. Enter the picture, greedy pharmaceutical empire CEO Steven Merrick (Harry Melling) who seeks to capture the group of mercenaries to find out their survival secrets. In a fight to protect their anonymity and avoid being captured for study, we wonder if they will be able to keep their secret guarded from the world. While from a pacing standpoint it feels a bit long at times, The Old Guard is loaded with adrenaline and high-octane action, giving Blockbuster fans a much-deserved thrill in the absence of cinemas this summer. Inclusive and unconventional casting gives the Film a fresh element, although all eyes go to its fierce star Theron who balances Andy‘s strength and vulnerability perfectly in what looks to be the start of a Franchise for her.

TED LASSO (APPLE TV+)

Jason Sudeikis reprises his role as Kansas College Football Coach sent overseas to oversee a soccer team in England. The funnyman developed this character prior and appeared on NBC Sports and has some fun with him in this fish-out-of-water Comedy which sees him adapting to language, personalities and cultural differences. Sudeikis is great, playing his character straight and well-intentioned yet fumbling, not exactly receiving the warmest reception. Sex Education‘s Hannah Waddingham is great as Rebeca, fearsome boss lady who inherited the said soccer team from her late husband. Why? She may have a reason or two why which you’ll find out. Under-appreciated Juno Temple also is delightfully-funny as a flirty minx who lands Lasso in a bit of trouble! We’ve previewed the first few episodes and are looking forward to the rest of the ten episodes which surface on Apple TV this August.

RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE SEASON 12 (CRAVE)

It’s RuPaul‘s world and we’re all just living in it. One of the greatest joys of this isolation period I’ve experienced is catching-up on RuPaul’s Drag Race and you’ll be pleased to know all seasons from the very start are available on Crave. This latest season sees 13 – and then 12 Drag Queens compete for fame, with one being disqualified after catfishing allegations surfaced after the season aired earlier this year. Compared to Season 11, these Queens may lack the sass their predecessors had, but more than make-up (pardon the pun) for with their showman – or should I say showwomanship?! Tons of celebrity guest judges surface including Nicki Minaj, Chaka Khan, Robyn, Jeff Goldblum, Olivia Munn and more. These Queens go through some positively-amazing and tough challenges including a Madonna “Rusical” and toughest of all, the final three compete for the throne from their own living rooms as the Finale had taken place amidst this pandemic. Truly the most heart-filled, entertaining hour on Television. We totally were rooting for Canadian Queen, Jackie Cox!

RUPAUL’S SECRET CELEBRITY DRAG RACE (CRAVE)

Our obsession with Drag Race continues even after season 12 with this limited-run, four-episode special Series which pits celebrities against one another with the winner of each episode getting a prize of $20,000 to a charity of their choice. We get some Canadian representation with Schitt’s Creek star Dustin Milligan appearing, plus some familiar faces like Hayley Kiyoko, Madison Beer, Loni Love, Vanessa Williams and more surfacing for a shot at drag glory. Most of all, it is fascinating seeing the cultural impact the Drag phenomenon has had on the world and a diverse set and we see that even celebrities are battling their own troubles which they overcome over the course of their time on this Show.

RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE ALL STARS SEASON 5 (CRAVE)

We honestly can’t get enough of this and RuPaul’s Drag Race has been our saviour amidst this Pandemic. Catching-up with all its branch-offs has been a thing of joy for me. This season pits returning stars of the past (some coming back a third time!) including Jujubee, Miz Cracker, Shea Couleé, Ongina, Alexis Mateo and Derrick Barry. While it is unable to avoid its drama, the bond of sisterhood among the contestants is stronger than ever and it truly is a nailbiter to the finish as the top three are evenly-matched. Celebrity guest judges include Jane Krakowski, Ricky Martin, Nicole Byer, Madison Beer, Tessa Thompson and more. RuPaul throws-in an added twist of a surprise Lip Sync Assassin each episode instead of the old format where the top two compete against one another. Instead, the contestant with the top score of the week competes against an unknown past star.

LITTLE VOICE (APPLE TV+)

We love Sara Bareilles and were so thrilled to hear she is responsible for the Music behind this Musical Young Adult Romance Series, joining forces with Mega-Producer J.J. Abrams. The Series centers on Bess (Brittany O’Grady) a talented younger Singer-Songwriter who is trying to find her voice. Part of the issue with the Series is that you really have to be invested in Bess to want to take this ride with her as the story takes a bit to progress and for a bit you have to sit through a phase of awkwardness. Some solid performances and nice Music on this Series, new episodes premiering weekly.

PALM SPRINGS (HULU)

Max Barbakow makes his directorial debut in charming Rom-Com PALM SPRINGS, which sold for a record $17.5 million after its Sundance Premiere earlier this year. While the pandemic has led to an altered course in its release, those in the U.S. already are able to enjoy this Groundhog Day-esque tale of a duo who cross paths and may be each other’s match. Nyles (Andy Samberg) already has a girlfriend in Misty (Meredith Hagner) and tags along for her best friend Tala‘s (Camila Mendes) wedding, in which Misty is a bridesmaid. Meet Sarah (Cristin Milioti), the older sister of Tala who’s made a few bad choices in her life. She and Nyles hit it off quite well, until an angry crossbow-wielding man named Roy (J.K. Simmons) shows up is in hot pursuit of Nyles. The odd thing is that the day keeps beginning over and over for the pair and they can’t quite understand why. Their storyline however keeps moving along in a linear motion despite the day lining-up differently each time and they realize that they aren’t going to be able to move ahead further until they confront some of the most toxic things that are holding them back in their lives. PALM SPRINGS uniquely combines raunchy Comedy, a bit of Physics and some heartfelt romance for a worthwhile watch that equally tugs a bit of the heartstrings as it does elicit the chuckles. The lead pair are perfect together, with Samberg delivering some of his best work yet.

(Photo/video credit: Netflix/Crave/Hulu/Apple TV)

Review by Amanda Gilmore for Mr. Will Wong

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile follows infamous serial killer Ted Bundy (Zac Efron), his relationship with Liz (Lily Collins), and the trials in which he was charged across multiple states for numerous savage murders.

This Film is a captivating watch from beginning to end thanks to Michael Werwie’s writing and steady direction by Joe Berlinger, who also directed Netflix‘s The Bundy Tapes. Enough time is spent on each important moment in Bundy’s trials, escapes and romantic relationships, which give a balanced look into the life of this complex serial killer. The Film is also an amazing showcase for Efron and Collins. Efron is stunning as Bundy and gives his best performance to date. He not only is convincing physically, but embodies his charm and wit, often making it hard to fall for him. Then there is Collins who gives a powerful performance as the tormented Liz. She evokes both the love Liz had for Bundy along with the doubt and regret which followed that love.

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile screens at Sundance on Sat., Jan 26 at 9:45PM at Eccles PC, Sun., Jan 27 at 8:30AM at The MARC PC, Tues., Jan 29 at 6:30PM at Rose Wagner SLC, Wed., Jan 30 at 6PM at Resort Sundance, and Sat., Feb 2 at 12:15PM at Eccles PC.

The 2019 Sundance Film Festival officially is at its peak point and the starpower has lit-up Park City. Stars continue to pour-in to present their Films at the Festival and drawing the most fandemonium today was Zac Efron who stars as serial killer Ted Bundy in EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE. Debuting new bleach-blonde hair, Efron had security flanking him tight as fans tried getting close to him. Amanda Gilmore, who is at Sundance on assignment for us, tells us the commotion was so great that his Co-Star Lily Collins almost couldn’t get into her vehicle. Their Film premieres tonight.

Daniel Radcliffe is at Sundance to present TV Series MIRACLE WORKERS, which will air on TBS in the U.S.and has him starring as an angel alongside Steve Buscemi who most stop the world from destruction and make two people fall in love. Amanda reports Radcliffe was gracious with fans, stopping for selfies and autographs amidst the crowding.

We are hearing Writer/Director Jennifer Kent (The Babadook) is coming back strong with Midnight Programme selection THE NIGHTINGALE about a young Irish woman (Aisling Franciosi) who chases after a British officer (Sam Claflin) after to exact revenge on a violent act he committed on her family. Review here.

See some of the talent Amanda spotted today:

Zac Efron, Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile

Stay tuned. We’ve got lots more to report and more reviews to come.

(Photo credit: Amanda Gilmore)

It’s Zac Efron like you’ve never imagined! EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE premieres at Sundance and here’s the brand-new Trailer!

Synopsis:
A chronicle of the crimes of Ted Bundy from the perspective of Liz, his longtime girlfriend, who refused to believe the truth about him for years.

Starring: Zac Efron, Lily Collins, Kaya Scodelario, Jeffrey Donovan, Angela Sarafyan, Dylan Baker, Brian Geraghty, Haley Joel Osment, James Hetfield, with Jim Parsons and John Malkovich

See the Trailer:

VVS Films release EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE 2019.

(Photo/video credit: VVS Films)

You know we love Christmas! Mr. Will x Warner Music Canada want to give Readers to win copies of this Holiday’s hottest releases, SIA‘s EVERYDAY IS CHRISTMAS and THE GREATEST SHOWMAN Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, one of our favourite Movies of 2017!

To get you into the spirit, have a listen to these uplifting Holiday tunes!

SANTA’S COMING FOR US (starring Kristen Bell)

EVERYDAY IS CHRISTMAS

THE GREATEST SHOW – Hugh Jackman and Cast

NEVER ENOUGH – Loren Allred

The Cast of THE GREATEST SHOWMAN x Mr. Will

With all the ugliness of the world, #GreatestShowman is the Movie we all need right now. It fills the heart with joy and happiness. An immaculately-styled Spectacle told through gorgeous song and precise choreography. A role only #HughJackman could have played and a Movie that could not have been made without Baz Luhrmann paving the way. #ZacEfron and #RebeccaFerguson will wow you! 🎩🎪 In theatres Christmas.

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 🎅 (@mrwillwong) on Dec 10, 2017 at 10:39am PST

Sia x Mr. Will

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 🎅 (@mrwillwong) on Jul 1, 2014 at 7:59am PDT

We’ll never forget the day our dreams came true and Snapchat had a SIA Snapchat Lens!

Chandelier. (@siathisisacting) #Sia

A post shared by Mr. Will Wong 🎅 (@mrwillwong) on Jul 21, 2016 at 6:15pm PDT

To enter to win these amazing CDs, plus also a super-rare SIA Christmas wig, click “like” on this Post over at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK! Contest open to all Readers in Canada.

Warner Music Canada release SIA‘s EVERYDAY IS CHRISTMAS and THE GREATEST SHOWMAN ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK, both now in stores and available digitally.

We are hit or miss on Musicals but can we tell you how floored we are by the Spectacle that is THE GREATEST SHOWMAN? Hitting theatres this Christmas, its stellar Soundtrack now is in stores to get you ready for the experience on the Big Screen!

Brace yourself to be swept away to magical land of euphoria and dazzling dreams. We cannot stop listening to the Tracklist featuring phenomenal performances by Hugh Jackman, Zendaya, Zac Efron, Keala Settle and several more including a showstopping delivery by The Voice Finalist Loren Allred who voices Rebecca Ferguson’s Jenny Lind in the Movie. Her work on the perfect ballad Never Enough will affect you deeply.

Benj Pasek and Justin Paul oversee the original Music in this triple-Golden Globe-nominated Musical based on the rise of Entrepreneur and Showman P.T. Barnum.

While it was to be released a year ago, The Greatest Showman directed by Australian Michael Gracey with a Screeplay by Jenny Bicks (Sex and the City) and Bill Condon (The Twilight Saga, Dreamgirls), proves worth the long wait. The Choreography is precise and fantastic, the emotions are real. This is Me performed by Settle is just one of several fantastic numbers here and it gets the Globe nod when many others on the Album also could have made the short list. Jackman was born to play the titular role. The Film is unable to separate itself from Baz Luhrmann‘s genius influence but that is a good problem to have.

In addition to Allred’s vocal perfection on Never Enough, Jackman has never sounded better. We love the much-needed uplifting spirit on The Greatest Show and Come Alive, perfect for the Holidays. Efron and Zendaya shine bright on duet Rewrite the Stars. Production is slick and sonically the Soundtrack lifts us just like the Film does.

Enjoy a few selections from THE GREATEST SHOWMAN below:

THIS IS ME

COME ALIVE

NEVER ENOUGH

REWRITE THE STARS

THE GREATEST SHOW

Warner Music Canada release THE GREATEST SHOWMAN ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK, in stores now.

Mr. Will x 20th Century Fox want to give Readers in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver a chance to attend an Advance Screening of THE GREATEST SHOWMAN!

The Screening takes place this Sunday, December 10, 2017 10:00 AM. Due to the fast turnaround on these we will be drawing winners right away, please enter only if you are sure you can attend.

Synopsis:

Inspired by the imagination of P.T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman is an original musical that celebrates the birth of show business & tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation.

See the Trailer:

Artwork:

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

20th Century Fox Canada release THE GREATEST SHOWMAN Friday, December 20, 2017.

Official Hashtag: #GreatestShowman

(Photo/video credit: 20th Century Fox)

Paramount Pictures Canada x Mr. Will want to take Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa Readers to an Advance Screening of BAYWATCH!  The Screening takes place Monday, May 22, 2017.

Synopsis:
BAYWATCH follows devoted lifeguard Mitch Buchannon (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) as he butts heads with a brash new recruit (Zac Efron). Together, they uncover a local criminal plot that threatens the future of the Bay.

BAYWATCH also stars Alexandra Daddario, Priyanka Chopra, Kelly Rohrbach, Ilfenesh Hadera and Jon Bass.

See the Trailer:

Artwork:

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

Paramount Pictures Canada release BAYWATCH Thursday, May 25, 2017.

(Photo credit: Paramount Pictures Canada)

Although summer isn’t here for a bit, here’s a little something to warm you up! Check out these awesome motion posters for BAYWATCH. They saved the best for last, TRUST ME.

Mitch Buchanan

Matt Brody

Summer Quinn

C.J. Parker

Stephanie Holden

Ronnie

Paramount Pictures Canada release BAYWATCH Friday, May 26, 2017!

(Photo/video credit: Paramount Pictures Canada)

We are getting total 21 Jump Street vibes here but this BAYWATCH is looking like a surefire hit if it is anywhere as good as it looks!

See the new Trailer:

Paramount Pictures Canada release BAYWATCH Friday, May 26, 2017.

(Photo/video credit: Paramount Pictures Canada)