#SPOTTED: CRASH ADAMS IN TORONTO FOR “LUCKY” SINGLE LAUNCH

Rising Toronto Pop Outfit Crash Adams certainly know how to get noticed! Premiering their brand-new single “Lucky“, the Duo comprised of members Crash and Adams, quickly have built a following after forming in 2019 with impromptu on-the-street performances which went viral.

Signing with Warner Music, they now officially are in high gear after holdbacks during Covid, giving us a taste of their talent with tracks “California Girl”, “Give Me a Kiss” and “Destination”. Their new single is a cut from the cloth they have woven – sunny Pop Music.

The Duo were in town for a two day press blitz, hitting-up TV and Radio. Today, they did an impromptu experience at Yonge & Dundas Square handing-out ice cream to passers-by! Talk about lucky!

Crash Adams appeared on Breakfast Television, with a live performance as well! Have enjoyed everything I’ve heard and these two are certainly well on their way to being global sensations.

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Check out the new single:

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong/Warner Music)

#FIRSTLOOK: “BLACK MIRROR” SEASON SIX TRAILER

After a bit of a hiatus, BLACK MIRROR is back to give us the chills June 15, 2023.

The sixth season of Charlie Brooker’s Black Mirror returns with 5 ground-breaking new stories. The most unpredictable, unclassifiable and unexpected season yet – only on NETFLIX.

Expect a stacked Cast this season including the likes of Aaron Paul, Anjana Vasan, Annie Murphy, Auden Thornton, Ben Barnes, Clara Rugaard, Daniel Portman, Danny Ramirez, David Shields, Himesh Patel, John Hannah, Josh Hartnett, Kate Mara, Michael Cera, Monica Dolan, Myha’la Herrold, Paapa Essiedu, Rob Delaney, Rory Culkin, Salma Hayek Pinault, Samuel Blenkin and Zazie Beetz.

(Photo/video credit: Netflix)

#FIRSTLOOK: CBC 2023-2024 PROGRAMMING SLATE UNVEILED

CBC today announced its 2023-24 programming slate for CBC TV and CBC Gem, featuring over 40 new and returning original series from Canadian creators, producers and storytellers and more than 4000 hours of new programming spanning all genres.

“As we announce our new slate of remarkable storytelling, we remain focused on serving Canadians on the platform of their choice and offering what no other media company in this country can: the essential information audiences rely on each and every day, and authentic entertainment that reflects the changing face of Canada,” said Barbara Williams, Executive Vice-President, CBC. “We’re different. We stand apart from others, just as strong and just as significant. We want all Canadians to see CBC as their thing – as a Canada thing that makes everyone feel they belong, regardless of their age, background or location.”

NEW STREAMING CHANNELS

Building on the launch of CBC NEWS EXPLORE, CBC will launch new free 24/7 ad-supported streaming (FAST) channels this fall including CBC COMEDY and local news channels starting with CBC NEWS BC, offering even more content to digital and streaming audiences on connected TVs and CBC Gem. CBC COMEDY will feature hit CBC comedy series and the best in Canadian sketch comedy and stand up specials. Building on CBC’s strength in the genre, the channel will include current CBC shows including RUN THE BURBS, SON OF A CRITCH and SORT OF, as well as recent favourites like KIM’S CONVENIENCE and SCHITT’S CREEK, sketch comedy classics such as BARONESS VON SKETCH SHOW and TALLBOYZ, as well as extensive standup specials featuring favourite comedians. CBC NEWS BC will offer local news on the biggest stories of the day from the west coast of the country, and kicks off additional local CBC News streaming channels that will be available on connected TVs, the CBC News App and CBC Gem.

CBC NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

From breaking stories to in-depth coverage, CBC News delivers trusted 24-hour news and information on CBC News Network, CBCNews.ca and the CBC News App. CBC News continues to bring audiences the latest news from across Canada and around the world, in addition to an award-winning slate of current affairs, investigative and primetime and weekend news programs.

Beginning this fall, the best of free streaming channel CBC NEWS EXPLORE will broadcast on CBC including ABOUT THAT, ADRIENNE ARSENAULT REPORTS, PLANET WONDER, and THIS WEEK IN CANADA, as well as BIG: CBC News Explore Original Documentary series. Also this fall, CANADA TONIGHT sees the return of host Ginella Massa in October, as she continues to highlight the stories beyond the headlines.

THE FIFTH ESTATE (Season 49 premieres Fall 2023; 15×60)

MARKETPLACE (Season 51 premieres Fall 2023; 17×30)

THE NATIONAL (Weeknights and Sundays on CBC TV and CBC News Network)

POWER & POLITICS (Weeknights on CBC News Network)

CANADA TONIGHT WITH DWIGHT DRUMMOND (Weeknights on CBC News Network)

ROSEMARY BARTON LIVE (Sundays on CBC TV and CBC News Network)

ENTERTAINMENT, FACTUAL AND SPORTS

ORIGINAL COMEDY SLATE

This upcoming broadcast and streaming year, CBC and CBC Gem will continue to be the home for fresh original Canadian comedy, with new workplace series ONE MORE TIME from comedian D.J. Demers joining the lineup alongside authentic comedies SORT OF, RUN THE BURBS and SON OF A CRITCH, and the best in Canadian sketch and standup comedy with THIS HOUR HAS 22 MINUTES and THE NEW WAVE OF STANDUP.

New Original Comedy Series

ONE MORE TIME (Premieres Winter 2024; 13×30; Counterfeit Pictures)

From creator and standup comedian D.J. Demers (The Tonight Show, Conan) and showrunner Jessie Gabe (Workin’ Moms, Mr. D), ONE MORE TIME is a workplace comedy about a fictionalized and heightened version of D.J. (played by Demers) as the hearing-impaired manager of a second-hand sporting goods store, and the team of “hard-working” employees he leads. D.J.’s optimistic, community-oriented outlook on life is challenged at every turn, as he and his team struggle to keep the small independent shop alive.

Returning Original Comedies & Festivals

THE NEW WAVE OF STANDUP (Seasons 2 and 3 premiere Fall 2023; 8×30; Just For Laughs TV)

SORT OF (Season 3 premieres Fall 2023; 8×30; Sphere Media’s Sienna Films)

THIS HOUR HAS 22 MINUTES (Season 31 premieres Fall 2023; 24×30; IoM Media)

RUN THE BURBS (Season 3 premieres Winter 2024; 13×30; Pier 21 Films)

SON OF A CRITCH (Season 3 premieres Winter 2024; 13×30; Project 10 Productions)

ORIGINAL DRAMA SLATE

The east coast family drama continues this summer with a new season of MOONSHINE, while the fall sees the debut of Marie Clements’ multi-generational epic of Indigenous resilience, BONES OF CROWS, and an extended version of Matt Johnson’s slice of Canadian tech history, BLACKBERRY, as well as the return of audience favourites HEARTLAND, MURDOCH MYSTERIES and SKYMED. This winter, new thoughtful drama ALLEGIANCE explores the Canadian justice system from multiple perspectives, while the odd couple of a grizzled cop and a spirited con woman are forced to work together in new comedic procedural WILD CARDS.

New Original Drama Series

BLACKBERRY (Premieres Fall 2023, 3×60, Rhombus Media and Zapruder Films)

Directed by Matt Johnson (Nirvanna the Band the Show), BLACKBERRY follows the story of Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie, the two men who charted the course of the spectacular rise and catastrophic demise of the world’s first smartphone. Seemingly overnight, the duo revolutionized the way people work, communicate and connect, with millions of people around the world addicted to their BlackBerrys and the company completely dominating the market. That is, until some shady business dealings, personal grievances, and, perhaps most dangerously, the iPhone, devastated the company’s incredible success. Co-written by Matt Johnson and Matthew Miller and adapted from the book Losing the Signal by Jacquie McNish and Sean Silcoff. BLACKBERRY originated at CBC, where Losing the Signal was optioned and developed over the course of four years as a feature film and extended three-part series that includes exclusive never-before-seen footage. The series stars Jay Baruchel (This Is The End, Knocked Up) as Mike, Glenn Howerton (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, A.P. Bio) as Jim, and Johnson as Mike’s friend and business partner Doug.

BONES OF CROWS (Premieres Fall 2023, 5×60, Marie Clements Media, Screen Siren Pictures and Grana Productions)

Removed from their family home and forced into Canada’s residential school system, Cree musical prodigy Aline Spears (played throughout her life by Summer Testawich; Grace Dove, Monkey Beach; and Carla Rae, Rutherford Falls) and her siblings are plunged into a struggle for survival. Written, directed and produced by Marie Clements (Red Snow), BONES OF CROWS is Aline’s journey from child to matriarch, a moving multi-generational epic of resilience, survival and the pursuit of justice.

ALLEGIANCE (Premieres Winter 2024, 10×60, Lark Productions)

Star rookie cop Sabrina Singh is proud to uphold her family’s tradition of serving in the police and military. But when her father, the Minister of Public Safety, is arrested on terror charges, Sabrina finds herself caught between her loyalties to her job, her family and her country. Gripping and smart, ALLEGIANCE is a character-driven police procedural about identity and belonging, policing and politics, and finding new paths to truth and justice. From creator Anar Ali (Transplant), showrunners Mark Ellis & Stephanie Morgenstern (Flashpoint, X Company), and Lark Productions (Family Law, Motive) and international distributor Universal International Studios.

WILD CARDS (Premieres Winter 2024, 10×60, piller/segan, Blink 49 and Front Street Pictures) is a crime-solving procedural with a comedic twist that follows the unlikely duo of a gruff, sardonic cop and a bubbly, clever con woman. Ellis, a demoted detective, has unfortunately spent the last year on Vancouver’s marine unit (i.e., he’s now a “water cop”), while Toni has been living a transient life elaborately scamming everyone she meets. But when Toni gets arrested and ends up helping Ellis solve a local crime, the two are offered the opportunity to redeem themselves, with Ellis going back to detective and Toni staying out of jail. The catch? They have to work together, with each using their unique skills to solve crimes. For Ellis, that means hard-boiled shoe leather police work; for Toni, it means accents, schemes, and generally befriending everyone in sight (while driving Ellis absolutely nuts). Against the backdrop of beautiful Vancouver — with all its unique, charming, and even contradictory neighbourhoods and subcultures — the two will have to learn what it means to trust another person and maybe actually become partners. The creative team includes Michael Konyves (Creator/Executive Producer), Shawn Piller (Executive Producer), Noelle Carbone (Head Writer/Executive Producer) and James Genn (Pilot Director/Executive Producer).

Returning Original Dramas

MOONSHINE (Season 3 premieres Sunday, July 16 at 9 p.m. (9:30 NT) on CBC and CBC Gem; 8×60, Six Eleven Media and eOne)

HEARTLAND (Season 17 premieres Fall 2023; 10×60; Dynamo Films and SEVEN24 Films)

MURDOCH MYSTERIES (Season 17 premieres Fall 2023; 24×60; Shaftesbury)

SKYMED (Season 2 premieres Fall 2023; 9×60, Piazza Entertainment)

FACTUAL ENTERTAINMENT

CBC’s factual entertainment slate reflects people and communities from all regions of Canada with unique skills and interests who are in pursuit of their personal best, led by new series THE GREAT CANADIAN POTTERY THROW DOWN featuring ten of Canada’s top potters competing to be crowned best at the wheel. Returning series showcasing Canadians striving for excellence from coast to coast to coast include summer favourite RACE AGAINST THE TIDE. BEST IN MINIATURE, DRAGONS’ DEN, FAMILY FEUD CANADA, THE GREAT CANADIAN BAKING SHOW and STILL STANDING continue to bring the positive vibes this fall, while the winter brings the return of BOLLYWED and the Singh family in a celebration of the South Asian community, and PUSH’s Wheelie Peeps take on new personal challenges and successes. Later next year, STUFF THE BRITISH STOLE unearths more impolite history, and CANADA’S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE brings more thrills at Canada’s most picturesque locations.

New Original Factual Series

THE GREAT CANADIAN POTTERY THROW DOWN (Premieres Winter 2024; 8×60; Frantic Films)

Ten of Canada’s most talented potters compete to be crowned best at the wheel. THE GREAT CANADIAN POTTERY THROW DOWN is a naturally upbeat, open-hearted competition series that revels in the remarkable creativity of Canada’s top potters, featuring clever challenges, beautiful creations and personal stories between layers of humour and discovery. The Great Pottery Throw Down is an original British format created and owned by Love Productions, who also devised and produce the global smash-hit The Great British Baking Show. Five seasons of The Great Pottery Throw Down have aired in the UK on BBC and Channel 4, consistently performing above the timeslot average.

Returning Factual Formats & Series:

RACE AGAINST THE TIDE (Season 3 premieres Sunday, July 16 at 8:30 p.m. (9 NT) on CBC and CBC Gem; 10×30; marblemedia)

DRAGONS’ DEN (Season 18 premieres Fall 2023; 16×60)

FAMILY FEUD CANADA (Season 5 premieres Fall 2023; 102×30; Zone 3/Fremantle)

THE GREAT CANADIAN BAKING SHOW (Season 7 premieres Fall 2023; 9×60; Proper Television/Love Productions)

STILL STANDING (Season 9 premieres Fall 2023; 10×30; Frantic Films)

BEST IN MINIATURE (Season 3 premieres Fall 2023; 8×60; marblemedia)

BOLLYWED (Season 2 premieres Winter 2024; 10×30; HeartHat Entertainment)

PUSH (Season 2 premieres Winter 2024, 8×30, Fenix Film & Television and Small Army Entertainment)

CANADA’S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE (Season 2 premieres 2024; 7×60; Insight Productions (a Boat Rocker Company) and The Gurin Company)

STUFF THE BRITISH STOLE (Season 2 premieres 2024; 8×30; Wooden Horse, WildBear Entertainment and Cream Productions)

DOCUMENTARIES

CBC commissions an average of 80 documentaries each year for CBC, CBC Gem and documentary Channel, with CBC Gem now offering a library of over 800 documentaries, available to stream for free anytime. THE PASSIONATE EYE returns this fall with a new slate of original documentaries that drop audiences into a broad range of cultural conversations, from the nationwide battle being waged over our public statues and symbols, to a double take on the doppelgänger phenomenon, to an Inuit lawyer’s highly personal journey to bring her colonizers to justice.

New original doc series this upcoming year include:

BLACK LIFE: UNTOLD STORIES (Premieres Fall 2023, 8×60, Studio 112 in association with Northwood Entertainment, and Ugly Duck Productions) is an eight-part documentary series that reframes the rich and complex histories of Black experiences in Canada, dispelling commonly accepted myths and celebrating the many contributions of Black Canadians. The executive producers are the Emmy Award-winning Leslie Norville, P.K. Subban, Miranda de Pencier, and Nelson George; Sandy Hudson serves as co-executive producer. Consulting producers are the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Shadrach Kabango, Dr. Rinaldo Walcott, and Ravyn Wngz.

SWAN SONG (Premieres Fall 2023, 4×60, Visitor Media, Mercury Films Inc. and Quiet Ghost)

SWAN SONG is an immersive, character-driven series following Karen Kain’s final year with the National Ballet of Canada, as she steps into the role of director for the first time with a monumental new production of Swan Lake. Following Kain and a diverse group of dancers from the rehearsal room to intimate moments at home to the backstage chaos of the highest-stakes opening night in the company’s 70-year history, SWAN SONG cuts through the pristine images projected by the world of ballet to reveal the human stories, sacrifices, conflicts and triumphs that drive the dazzling artistry.

TELLING OUR STORY (Premieres Fall 2023 on CBC Gem; 4×60; Terre Innue)

The 11 First Peoples in Quebec, Canada—Abenaki, Anishnabe, Atikamekw, Cree of Eeyou Istchee, Innu, Inuit, Mi’gmaq, Kanyen’kehà:ka (Mohawk), Naskapi, Wendat, and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet)—are telling us who they are, in their own way and from their point of view: their worldview, their connection to the Territory, their spirituality, their values, their history going back thousands of years, their wounds, their struggles, their victories, and their hopes. Their stories give depth to our great collective narrative, decolonize history and minds, and honour the Ancestors and Mother Earth. Commissioned by CBC/Radio-Canada, TELLING OUR STORY is a celebration of our resistance, resilience, and revival. From award-winning Abenaki director Kim O’Bomsawin (Call Me Human, Quiet Killing) and a production team primarily made up of members of the First Peoples in all key positions, and offering on-set mentorship opportunities for Indigenous individuals.

FOR THE CULTURE WITH AMANDA PARRIS (Premieres Winter 2024 on CBC Gem, 6×60)

In this documentary series, award-winning writer, executive producer and host Amanda Parris leaves the wars raging on social media to create space for urgent and provocative conversations that centre Blackness and Black folks. Travelling to where the stories are, she’ll talk with cultural leaders, activists, scholars and everyday people – including writer and producer Larry Wilmore, best-selling author Bolu Babalola, comedian Gina Yashere and the “Robin Hood of Restitution” Mwazulu Diyabanza – about topics such as reparations, Black maternal health, the business of Black hair and more. Each episode will make transnational connections and push the conversation beyond the hashtags. Mixing travel, in-depth interviews and abbreviated history lessons, For the Culture will bring the conversations that have been taking place in the margins, and centre them in an insightful and entertaining way.

Returning Documentary Formats & Series:

THE PASSIONATE EYE (Premieres Fall 2023; 9×60 (+1×120 premiere))

THE NATURE OF THINGS (Season 63 premieres Winter 2024; 14×60)

CBC GEM ORIGINALS

THE BANNOCKING (Premieres Fall 2023 on CBC Gem; 6×10, Bad Bannock Productions)

A journalism student, Ellen Bear, returns home to uncover the truth about the abandoned residential school, but chaos ensues when residents of Bent Creek First Nations begin to show bizarre and violent behaviour, leaving everyone to ask: “What’s in the bannock?”

HOW TO FAIL AS A POPSTAR (Premieres Fall 2023 on CBC Gem; 8×15, Sphere Media)

What happens when a star isn’t born? An adaptation of Vivek Shraya’s hit play and subsequent book, How To Fail as a Popstar answers this question with hilarity, vulnerability, a healthy dose of imagination, and of course, music. The series tracks the journey of Vivek, a young queer brown boy, growing up in Edmonton trying to achieve pop stardom and what went right and wrong along the way – from the perspective of the now 40-something trans feminine multidisciplinary artist that boy became. Starring Shraya, Adrian Pavone (Star Trek: Discovery), and Chris D’Silva (The Handmaid’s Tale). Written by Shraya and directed by Vanessa Matsui (Son of a Critch) with Shraya co-directing one episode.

I HATE PEOPLE, PEOPLE HATE ME (Premieres Fall 2023 on CBC Gem; 6×15, LoCo Motion Pictures)

Perpetually disturbed by the world around them, two friends navigate their lives as outliers in Toronto’s queer community. This offbeat comedy explores queer identity in a time when queerness has not only been mainstreamed, but commodified. Creator and writer Bobbi Summers poses the question – who wants to fit in with society anyway? The series stars Bobbi Summers and Lily Kazimiera.

ZARQA (Season 2 premieres Fall 2023 on CBC Gem; 6×11, FUNdamentalist Films)

FARM CRIME (Season 3 premieres 2024 on CBC Gem; 6×20; Big Cedar Films)

CBC KIDS

Building on CBC’s ongoing commitment to inspire, entertain and inform young audiences, CBC Kids will continue to share new programming for kids and tweens across all platforms this upcoming year, including over 500 hours of ad-free programming on CBC Gem. New live-action series for preschoolers include BESTEST DAY EVER WITH MY BEST FRIEND! (Monday, July 31 on CBC and CBC Gem; 20×7; Lopii Productions), celebrating the cherished relationships children have with their pets, and AUNTY B’S HOUSE (Fall 2023; 20×7; Headspinner Productions), about a foster home full of heart, humour, music and unconditional love. Cuteness overload MITTENS & PANTS (Monday, July 3 on CBC and CBC Gem; 42×7; Windy Isle Entertainment) returns for a second season this summer, continuing the adventures of the Mittens, the kitten, and Pants, the puppy, and their friends in Kibble Corners.

New animated series for preschoolers include CBC/Radio-Canada original MINI-JON AND MINI-MAPLE (Monday, July 31 on CBC and CBC Gem; 24×3.5; Happy Camper Media), based on the books by popular author and cartoonist Alex A. and a sibling series to Super Agent Jon Le Bon!, featuring a mini-clone of Jon Le Bon living in a top-secret spy agency and embarking on adventures with his best friend Mini-Maple, and DYLAN’S PLAYTIME ADVENTURES (Spring 2024; 52×11; 9 Story Media Group/Brown Bag Films), about a stripey dog who takes on a new pretend career in each episode and invites his friends and viewers to play along with him.

CBC SPORTS

Looking ahead to the Paris 2024 Olympic (July 26 – Aug. 11, 2024) and Paralympic (Aug. 28 – Sept. 8, 2024) Games, CBC SPORTS will continue to keep Canadians connected to the world of high-performance sport through coverage on CBC TV and CBC Gem, as well as live streams of key competitions and supporting digital content on cbcsports.ca and the CBC Sports app. Upcoming featured events include: World Aquatic Championships – Fukuoka 2023 (Japan, July 14 – 30); World Athletic Championships Budapest 2023 (Hungary, Aug. 19 – 27); 2023 Rugby Americas North Sevens – Olympic qualifier (Langford, B.C., Aug. 19 – 20); Artistic Gymnastics World Championships (Antwerp, Belgium, Oct. 1 – 8); and the Pan American Games (Santiago, Chile, Oct. 20 – Nov. 5). As Canada’s Olympic and Paralympic Network for the next decade, CBC will continue to offer high-quality storytelling that allows audiences to follow the journey of the athletes between Games, all the way to the podium.

INTERNATIONAL SERIES

CBC and CBC Gem will continue to offer audiences a curated selection of acclaimed series from around the world. Premium titles coming soon to CBC Gem include the exclusive Canadian premiere of highly anticipated comedy-drama series DREAMING WHILST BLACK from BAFTA Craft Award-winner Adjani Salmon, who also stars as an aspiring filmmaker trying to succeed, as well as the second season of adult animated comedy TEN YEAR OLD TOM from Steve Dildarian featuring Jennifer Coolidge, John Malkovich and David Duchovny, and the fourth season of award-winning war drama DAS BOOT.

VICTORIA (Season 3 premieres Fall 2023; Season 3; 8×60; indie Mammoth Screen)

ANIMAL CONTROL (Season 1 premieres Fall 2023; 12×30; Fox Entertainment)

CRIME SCENE KITCHEN (Season 1 premieres Fall 2023; 9×60; Fox Entertainment)

MISS SCARLET & THE DUKE (Season 2 premieres Winter 2024; 6×60; Element 8 Entertainment)

BELGRAVIA (Season 2 premieres Winter 2024; 8×60; Carnival Films)

#GIVEAWAY: ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN PASSES TO AN ADVANCE SCREENING OF DISNEY & PIXAR’S “ELEMENTAL”

Walt Disney Studios Canada x Mr. Will want to give Readers a chance to win passes to an Advance Screening of Disney & Pixar’s ELEMENTAL.

Screening Details:

Toronto

Wednesday, June 14

7:00pm

Cineplex Cinemas Queensway

1025 The Queensway, Etobicoke, ON M8Z 6C7, Canada

Calgary

Wednesday, June 14

7:00pm

Scotiabank Theatre Chinook

6455 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0K4, Canada

Edmonton

Wednesday, June 14

7:00pm

Scotiabank Theatre Edmonton

8882 170 St NW #3030, Edmonton, AB T5T 4M2, Canada

Vancouver

Wednesday, June 14

7:00pm

Cineplex Cinemas Marine Gateway

452 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V5X 0C3, Canada

Ottawa

Wednesday, June 14

7:00pm

Scotiabank Theatre Ottawa

2385 City Park Dr, Gloucester, ON K1J 1G1, Canada

Winnipeg

Wednesday, June 14

7:00pm

Scotiabank Theatre Winnipeg

817 St James St, Winnipeg, MB R3G 3L3, Canada

Montreal

Wednesday, June 14

7:00pm

Cinéma Banque Scotia

977 Saint-Catherine St W, Montreal, Quebec H3B 4W3, Canada

Synopsis:

Disney and Pixar’s “Elemental” is an all-new, original feature film set in Element City, where fire-, water-, land- and air-residents live together. The story introduces Ember, a tough, quick-witted and fiery young woman, whose friendship with a fun, sappy, go-with-the-flow guy named Wade challenges her beliefs about the world they live in. The films is directed by Peter Sohn (“The Good Dinosaur,” “Partly Cloudy” short), produced by Denise Ream (“The Good Dinosaur,” “Cars 2”), and featuring the voices of Leah Lewis and Mamoudou Athie as Ember and Wade, respectively.

To enter for your chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK and indicate for us there, your city! Re-Tweet the Contest Tweet below as well for an extra chance!

#Giveaway: Canada! We've got passes in multiple cities to an Advance Screening of Disney & Pixar's ELEMENTAL! We're hearnig so much buzz about this one.

Details: https://t.co/rsqX56E8i2 pic.twitter.com/7vybmlW9dv

— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) June 1, 2023

Rules and regulations here.

NOTE: Do not respond to third-party comments advising you’ve won and to click on links. We have never contacted our winners this way.

Disney & Pixar’s ELEMENTAL arrives in theatres June 16, 2023.

(Photo/video credit: Disney)

#NEWMUSIC: TOBE NWIGWE & NAS ft. JACOB BANKS – “ON MY SOUL” FROM “TRANSFORMERS: RISE OF THE BEASTS”

Today we get a new Music Video for “ON MY SOUL” from TRANSORMERS: RISE OF THE BEASTS, performed by TOBE NWIGWE & NAS ft. JACOB BANKS. The Track will be on the Film’s upcoming Motion Picture Soundtrack.

SYNOPSIS:

Returning to the action and spectacle that have captured moviegoers around the world, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts will take audiences on a ‘90s globetrotting adventure with the Autobots and introduce a whole new faction of Transformer – the Maximals – to join them as allies in the existing battle for earth. Directed by Steven Caple Jr. and starring Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback, the film arrives in theatres June 9, 2023.

Paramount Pictures and Skydance Present

In Association with Hasbro and New Republic Pictures

A Don Murphy/Tom DeSanto Production

A di Bonaventura Pictures Production

A Bay Films Production

DIRECTED BY

Steven Caple Jr.

SCREENPLAY BY

Joby Harold and Darnell Metayer & Josh Peters

and Erich Hoeber & Jon Hoeber

STORY BY

Joby Harold

BASED ON

Hasbro’s Transformers™ Action Figures

Lorenzo di Bonaventura, p.g.a., Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay,

PRODUCED BY

Mark Vahradian, p.g.a. Duncan Henderson

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Steven Spielberg, Brian Goldner, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg,

Don Granger, Brian Oliver, Bradley J. Fischer, Valerii An

CAST

Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback, Luna Lauren Velez, Dean Scott Vazquez, Tobe Nwigwe, Peter Cullen, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Liza Koshy, John DiMaggio, David Sobolov, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Pete Davidson, Colman Domingo, Cristo Fernández, Tongayi Chirisa

(Photo/video credit: Paramount Pictures Canada/Tobe Nwigwe)

#FIRSTLOOK: “JURY DUTY” EXCLUSIVE CAST COMMENTARY EDITION COMING

Court is back in session. Amazon Freevee has announced it will release an exclusive cast commentary edition of the hit docu-style comedy series Jury Duty on June 1, 2023.

All eight episodes of the series will include secrets from the jury box, as told by director Jake Szymanski, hero Ronald Gladden, and some of the jurors themselves—James Marsden (as Sex Drive star James Marsden), Mekki Leeper (Noah), Cassandra Blair (Vanessa), and Maria Russell (Inez).

While reliving the “case” of Hilgrove vs. Morris, trial observers will be treated to never-before-heard anecdotes about what it took to create the carefully-planned-yet-chaotic world—inside the courtroom and out—for esteemed foreperson Ronald Gladden. New testimony from Gladden himself will reveal exactly what he was thinking in every unpredictable moment.

Since the series debuted on April 7, Jury Duty has become the No. 1 title on Freevee[1] and a viral hit, with over 279 million TikTok posts under the hashtag #JuryDutyonFreevee.

The exclusive cast commentary episodes will be available on Freevee in the U.S., UK, Germany, and Austria, and simultaneously on Prime Video in the U.S, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the Philippines, Singapore, India, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Audiences watching on Amazon.com or Prime Video via Fire TV will find the commentary under the “Extras” tab on the Jury Duty series page.

Additionally, those who have been wanting their own Cinnamon & Sparrow pieces are in luck: Amazon has launched a collection of official Jury Duty merchandise. The assortment features 35 different styles (functioning chair pants not included), and will be available in the U.S. on June 1 exclusively at amazon.com/jurydutymerch.

Jury Duty is executive produced by Jake Szymanski, David Bernad (The White Lotus, Bad Trip), Lee Eisenberg (WeCrashed, The Office), Ruben Fleischer (Superstore), Nicholas Hatton (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, Who Is America?), Cody Heller (Dummy), Todd Schulman (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, Brüno, Who Is America?), Gene Stupnitsky (Hello Ladies, The Office), and Andrew Weinberg (Great Minds with Dan Harmon). Eisenberg and Stupnitsky co-created the series, and Heller serves as showrunner.

About Amazon Freevee

Amazon Freevee is a streaming video service with thousands of premium movies and TV shows, including Originals and free ad-supported (FAST) channels, available anytime, for free.

● Expansive Catalog: Amazon Freevee offers viewers ambitious Originals, including Bosch: Legacy; Emmy-winning court program Judy Justice; coming-of-age drama High School; docu-comedy series Jury Duty; performance special Monumental: Ellie Goulding at Kew Gardens; reality design series Hollywood Houselift with Jeff Lewis; comedy series Sprung; music documentary Post Malone: Runaway; heist drama Leverage: Redemption; spy thriller Alex Rider; and the sports docu-series UNINTERRUPTED’s Top Class: The Life and Times of the Sierra Canyon Trailblazers. Combined with an always updating library of broadly appealing hit movies and TV shows across a wide selection of genres, and a catalog of more than 250 FAST channels, including Judy Justice and Crime 360, Amazon Freevee delivers customers the content they would expect to see on a paid service.

● Free: The entire catalog of content on the service is free. No paid subscriptions necessary.

● Limited Ads: Amazon Freevee provides customers highly sought content supported by limited advertising.

● Instant Access: Amazon Freevee is available as an app on Fire TV, Fire Tablets, and within the Prime Video app. Amazon Freevee is available as an app on third party devices including Roku, Samsung smart TVs (2017-2021 models), Apple TV 4K, Apple TV HD, Comcast’s Xfinity Flex, Xfinity X1, Chromecast with Google TV, NVIDIA SHIELD and other Android TV devices, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles, as well as LG Smart TVs (2018-2021 models). The app is also available on iPhone, iPad, and Android mobile devices.

To learn more about Amazon Freevee, visit www.amazon.com/freevee and follow @AmazonFreevee.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW MILLI VANILLI DOC COMING TO PARAMOUNT+

Paramount+ today announced the acquisition of the new feature-length documentary MILLI VANILLI, which will premiere exclusively on the service this fall in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, Latin America, Brazil, Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland and Austria following its world premiere at the Tribeca Festival on Saturday, June 10, at 8:30 PM.

Produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and MRC, MILLI VANILLI tells the story of Robert Pilatus and Fabrice Morvan, who became fast friends during their youth in Germany. With Rob coming from a broken home and Fabrice having left an abusive household, they shared a similar upbringing, as well as a future goal: to become famous superstars. In a few short years, their dreams came true. Their first album went platinum six times in 1989, and their hit “Girl You Know It’s True” sold over 30 million singles worldwide. Rob and Fab, better known as Milli Vanilli, became the world’s most popular pop duo in 1990 and won the GRAMMY for Best New Artist. However, their ascension to success came with a devastating price that ultimately led to their infamous undoing.

“For over 30 years, the story of Milli Vanilli – in particular Rob and Fab – has been reduced to sensational headlines,” says director Luke Korem. “With this documentary, we pull back the curtain on pop music. Featuring interviews with the real singers, record executives, the producer mastermind behind the deception and exclusive interviews with Rob and Fab, we unveil the truth of this complex, exciting and dramatic story. I’m thrilled that Paramount+ shares our vision and will bring this film to audiences around the world.”

“Finally – the true story of Milli Vanilli has been told!” says Fabrice Morvan. “I’m thankful Luke Korem and his team went to the lengths that they did. The journey I returned to during the filming of this documentary didn’t leave any stone unturned. At last I can close this chapter in peace … Get ready to take a walk in our steel-toe boots.”

MILLI VANILLI is directed and produced by Luke Korem, and produced by Bradley Jackson, MRC, Keep On Running Pictures and MTV Entertainment Studios. Hanif Abdurraqib and Kim Marlowe serve as executive producers.

#FIRSTLOOK: “THE WRATH OF BECKY” RED-BAND TRAILER

Quiver Distribution will be handling the release of SXSW ’23 selection THE WRATH OF BECKY! Today we get a glimpse of the gore in its brand-new RED-BAND Trailer!! NSFW! This will be in theatres June 9, 2023.

Synopsis
Two years after she escaped a violent attack on her family, Becky attempts to rebuild her life in the care of an older woman – a kindred spirit named Elena. But when a group known as the “Noble Men” break into their home, attack them, and take her beloved dog, Diego, Becky must return to her old ways to protect herself and her loved ones.

Directors:
Matt Angel and Suzanne Coote

Writer: Matt Angel
Story by: Matt Angel and Suzanne Coote

Cast:
Lulu Wilson, Seann William Scott, Denise Burse, Jill Larson, Courtney Gains, Michael Sirow, Aaron Dalla Villa, Matt Angel, Kate Siegel

Release schedule as follows:

Opening nationwide in Canadian theatres on June 9th, 2023 from Quiver Distribution, including cinemas in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Ottawa, Winnipeg and Halifax. Please check local listings for screenings in other cities. 

(Photo/video credit: Quiver Distribution)

#GIVEAWAY: ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN RUN-OF-ENGAGEMENT PASSES TO SEE “PAST LIVES”

Elevation Pictures x Mr. Will want to give Readers a chance to win Run-of-Engagement Passes to see PAST LIVES. The Film by Toronto’s Celine Song debuted at Sundance to raves.

Synopsis:

Nora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, get separated after her family emigrates from South Korea. Two decades later, they reunite in New York City for one fateful week as they confront notions of destiny, love and life choices.

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK and in the comments let us know your City. Re-Tweet the Contest Tweet below for an extra chance.

Enter for a chance to #win Run-of-Engagement Passes to see PAST LIVES.

Details: https://t.co/HtugoEcLkZ pic.twitter.com/GcW0B9wvcg

— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) May 31, 2023

Rules and regulations here.

Elevation Pictures release PAST LIVES June 9, 2023.

(Photo/video credit: Elevation Pictures)

#TJFF: 2023 TORONTO JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL PREVIEW

The Toronto Jewish Film Festival is back June 1-11, 2023 digitally and online! The Festival will feature more in-person screenings (from downtown Toronto to North York) with guests, after navigating the Pandemic. This 31st edition of the Festival boasts 77 films/series (including 28 Canadian premieres) from across the globe covering a variety of topics, including The Man in the Basement, which will open the Festival on June 1st, 2023 at the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema with Director Philippe Le Guay in attendance.

Among the other events and screenings you won’t want to miss are An Afternoon with Saul Rubinek, Nina and Friends (Nina Keogh is one of the Puppeteers behind Canadian classics Today’s Special and Mr. Dressup) and highly-acclaimed film Karaoke.

Our George Kozera (@PartyG) has had the pleasure of previewing a few selections from this year’s Festival. He shares his thoughts below with us.

THE MAN IN THE BASEMENT

The Toronto Jewish Film Festival opening night movie, THE MAN IN THE BASEMENT, is a gripping and provocative exploration of anti-Semitism coupled with the crumbling of what once was an idyllic familial dynamic. Parisian condo owners, Simon and Helene Sandberg (Jeremie Renier and Berenice Bejo, respectively) are in the process of selling their storage basement unit to a former history teacher Jacques Fonzic (Francois Cluzet) who wants to use it to store his recently deceased mother’s belongings. Whereas the deed to the property had not yet been executed, the all-too-trusting Simon signs a promissory note, cashes the cheque and hands over the key. Then, it begins. First, a neighbour advises Simon that Fonzic is not using the unit for storage, but actually lives in it. Then Fonzic starts to question the Sandberg’s daughter Justine (Victoria Eber) about her religion and ends with him calling the owner of a nearby bistro “A dirty Arab”. Along with the family, the audience learns that Fonzic is not only a conspiracy theorist but a Holocaust denier. We watch in horror and dread as the Sandbergs’ life crumbles in trying to legally evict this reprehensible person.

I wasn’t mesmerized with THE MAN IN THE BASEMENT, as my feelings went deeper than that. This Movie had me hypnotized as the plot advances with terrifying circumstances alongside its twists and turns. This is also due to the exceptional performances by the three leading Actors. Francois Cluzet, best known to North American audiences for starring in “The Intouchables”, is superb with a level of intensity and twisted logic that is genuinely frightening. Berenice Bejo (Oscar-nominated for “The Artist”) is equally impressive as Helene becomes more obsessed with the anti-Semitism she never realized existed, which includes comments made by her father. Jeremie Renier, whose career I have followed for years, excels in a role where he must carry innumerable emotions with finesse. From being sweet natured to ultimately being called a “self-hating Jew” by his older brother, then becoming borderline psychotic, prone to violence, this is Renier’s best screen performance to date.

The vicious ideologies espoused and the almost unknowing racist comments made by secondary characters are hard to wrap your brain around, but taking into account what is happening with our neighbours to the south, THE MAN IN THE BASEMENT is essential viewing.

Tickets and showtimes here.

LESS THAN KOSHER (CENTREPIECE FILM)

We first meet Viv (Shaina Silver-Baird) in a bar, breaking every Yom Kippur tradition. She is drunker than a barrel full of monkeys, snorting copious lines of coke in the washroom and is scarfing down bacon with a passion of someone finding water in a desert. Welcome to the hyper-comedic world of LESS THAN KOSHER, a movie so great that will make you salivate with anticipation as to what unique situation you will see next. The following morning, the still living at home with her parents and younger sister, Viv is “encouraged” to go with the family to the synagogue to observe the holiday. While there, she is overwhelmed by a song performed by the cantor and begins to sing along in a voice so powerful, it stuns the congregation. After the service, she is approached by the handsome and witty Ash (David Reale) and there is an immediate attraction which is somewhat ruined when Viv learns that he is the Rabbi’s (David Eisner) son who coerces her to being his cantor for a number of upcoming events.

There are innumerable delicious scenes and circumstances that I am loathe to reveal as the pure joy of watching this set in Toronto movie is discovering what will happen next. That said, you haven’t lived until you’ve heard a Disney classic sung to a Judeo-Pop beat (kudos to composer Ari Posner whose work can also now be heard on the TV Shows “Sullivan’s Crossing” and “Ride”) or attend a Tiki-themed Shiva. Furthermore, in the current cinematic landscape where filmmakers feel the need to tell their story in over three hours, Director Daniel Am Rosenberg brilliantly tackles many storylines with finesse in a scant running time of 65 minutes. Bravo!

Don’t let the title LESS THAN KOSHER mislead you…this Movie IS perfect.

Tickets and showtimes here.

THE DELEGATION

Inspired by Director Asaf Saban’s personal history of travelling from Israel to Poland as a teenager to learn about the Jewish suffering there during World War II, THE DELEGATION brings a unique youthful perspective of not only the tragedies that occurred in the concentration camps of Majdanek and Auschwitz and how it affects the teenagers of this high-school mandated trip as they struggle with their own hormonal and growing pains as well.

Frisch, Nitzan and Ido (Yoav Bavly, Neomi Harari and Leib Lev Levin respectively) are the centerpiece of this Movie as a part of the group exploring the forests and graveyards scattered throughout the country, oftentimes wearing oversized white hoodies with the Star of David emblazed in the back and carrying the flag of Israel. Afterwards they are encouraged to talk about what they were feeling by the adult supervisors on the trip as well as listen to Frisch’s grandfather’s (Ezra Dagan) first-hand accounts of how he became a survivor. Left to their own devices after their excursions, these teenagers are rambunctious and looking to party the night away.

Saban nicely maneuvres what could have been overly melodramatic plot lines with dexterity. I was particularly moved by Frisch’s storyline where he eschews going to Auschwitz with the delegation, is picked up by a Polish truckdriver while hitchhiking who, first takes him to his home and have his wife feed the young man and then is taken to the destroyed remnants of an ancient synagogue where he asked, by the many people there, to recite a Jewish prayer. The Director beautifully intersects the effects these youngsters have after seeing the historical atrocities with their own romantic turmoils.

I highly recommend THE DELEGATION for its nuanced and original approach.

 Tickets and showtimes here.

iMORDECAI

Based on true events, first-time Director and Co-Writer Marvin Samel brings the audience an unapologetic love story tribute to his family with iMORDECAI. It also reunites two stars from the classic TV show “Taxi”, both  Oscar nominees, Judd Hirsch and Carol Kane where their combined talents elevate this movie above the schmaltz it could have been. Mordecai (Hirsch) is a retired plumber, pushing 80, when his son Marvin (Sean Astin) finds his dad with a jackhammer in the washroom, wanting to give his wife Fela (Kane) a walk-in shower. Marvin also notices that his dad’s flip phone is held together with electrical tape and takes him to a local (not Apple) store to buy a new iPhone being sold by (not Apple Geniuses) but very friendly and knowledgeable “Einsteins”. Confused that there are no numbers visible on the phone, Mordecai gets lessons on how the iPhone works from Nina (Azia Dinea Hale) and the two develop a strong bond and budding friendship. With this new technology, Mordecai can access a whole new world.

In the interest of full disclosure, had I been reviewing this Movie with my Critic’s hat on, I would have gone on about how there are just one too many coincidences to advance the plot that made my head spin. The Yiddish accents are exaggerated to an embarrassing hilt. Sean Astin and Broadway Superstar Stephanie J. Block are sadly underutilized. But you know what, Bubeleh? I liked it. A lot. Sue me!

I enjoyed that Mordecai’s history during WWII is presented in animation. It’s been awhile since I’ve seen Miami with all its colourful and vibrant exterior shots and I was swept away in all its pastel glories. The movie is very amusing but it also delves into some serious issues (Treblinka, Dementia) with genuine pathos. Lastly, I encourage all to the bask in the astonishing performances from Hirsch and Kane as they are truly a masterclass.

THE ACCUSATION

I may not be the most unbiased person to write about THE ACCUSATION as I’ve always been obsessed with French Cinema, as they tend to weave emotionally complex subject matters without fear and with finesse. Furthermore, I am a Courtroom Drama junkie, whether they are movies or television shows as they incline to be riveting and gripping. Director Yvan Attal brings to life a part legal procedure and part portrait of complex characters of all kinds from the social and economic stratosphere.

We first meet Alex Farel (played by Ben Attal, the real-life son of the Director and his Co-Star Charlotte Gainsbourg and grandson to Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg) arriving in Paris from the States, where he studies engineering at Stanford, to attend his father, acclaimed TV Journalist, Jean’s (Pierre Arditi) Legion of Honour induction ceremony. Finding only the housekeeper in his father’s opulent apartment, Alex goes to visit his mother Claire (Gainsbourg), who we quickly learn has separated from Jean and is living with her new boyfriend Adam (Mathieu Kassovitz, best known for his role in “Amelie“). Alex also meets Mila (Suzanne Jouannet), Adam’s 17-year-old daughter, and is encouraged to take her to a party he was attending to reunite with his old, well-to-do high school friends. The following morning Alex is awakened by the police and charged with rape.

THE ACCUSATION is broken into four chapters. The first two concentrate on Alex’s and Mila’s version of what happened, the third brings us into the courtroom, 30 months after the incident and concludes with their respective lawyers’ closing arguments and the jury’s verdict. The fourth chapter also brings us flashbacks on what happened and may have happened that faithful night.

THE ACCUSATION had me spellbound. There are no heroes nor villains but genuinely flawed, contrite, arrogant, and confused individuals. I also appreciated how Yvan Attal manipulates the viewing audience to feel like a member of the jury as we also struggle to ascertain what is truthful or misleading. The performances are exceptional throughout but special attention must be given to Suzanne Jouannet for reasons best kept undisclosed. The 138 minute running time may seem unyielding to some, but I found myself thinking afterwards that a savvy Producer should buy the rights and make a mini-series and flesh-out many supporting characters that have minimal, but truly effective screen time. THE ACCUSATION is an astonishing, adult-themed movie that must be seen.

Tickets and showtimes here.

OUR STORY

Real life husband and wife, Lee Biran and Eliana Tidhar bring charm and complexity to Director Yaron Arazi’s Musical Rom-Com OUR STORY. In it, Biran plays Tal, a successful, high-powered Music Agent working for his mother’s agency. Forced into damage control due to inappropriate behaviour from his popular Artist Shaked (Eden Meiri), it is decided to return to a boarding school situated in a desert miles away from Tel Aviv that the singer attended as a youth for a photo op and positive press clippings.

Thinking he was an intruder, Tal is bonked on the head with a cast iron pan at the office by the school’s music teacher Ori (Tidhar). Ori is an encouraging teacher, insisting her students strive towards greatness despite never performing her own songs in public. Following well established Romantic Comedy conventions, the Movie leads us down a path of very familiar circumstances.

That said, I enjoyed the sweet natured OUR STORY and admit to laughing out loud whenever the school’s Administrator Maayan appeared on-screen. Adi Havshush’s impeccable comedic timing and expressive facial features rock! Whether expounding on her fantasy relationship with Shaked or hoping her culinary originality, which includes spinach and vanilla cupcakes, will land her a spot on a cooking competition show, she is a wonderful comic foil. The desert scenes are filmed sumptuously, the music is pure finger-snapping Pop and the chemistry between the two leads is addictive.

Tickets and showtimes here.

For more on tickets and scheduling at TJFF ’23, click here.