FLIX with Joe Friar

17/06/2024

On this 2 MOVIE GUYS podcast episode, we review The Watchers, Tuesday, and Ultraman Rising. Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/7DQ7RHRqhGW4jvy0aRIq6D
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2-movie-guys/id1586036583

17/06/2024

On this 2 MOVIE GUYS podcast episode, we review Bad Boys: Ride or Die, Wildcat, Young Woman and the Sea, and The Big Bend. Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5GnH3fmDB5mFAtXqzdJEnJ
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2-movie-guys/id1586036583

15/06/2024

Death has been portrayed on the cinema screen in many forms. From Bengt Ekerot’s chess-playing depiction in Ingmar Bergman’s “The Seventh Seal” to Fredric March as a prince in “Death Takes a Holiday” and a wolf in the animated “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.” In the debut feature by Croatian writer and director Daina O. Pusić, the harvester of souls comes in the form of a macaw (voiced by Arinzé Kene) who pays a visit to a terminally ill teenager, the titular character played by Lola Petticrew, who asks for a little more time to prepare her mother (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) for the inevitable.

Death has been portrayed on the cinema screen in many forms. From Bengt Ekerot’s chess-playing depiction in Ingmar Bergman’s “The Seventh Seal” to Fredric

12/06/2024

M. Night Shyamalan has become synonymous with creepy thrillers. He brought us “The Sixth Sense,” “Signs,” and “Unbreakable.” Now, his daughter, 24-year-old Ishana, takes the reins to helm her feature debut, “The Watchers,” based on the novel by A.M. Shine. Dakota Fanning gets lost in the woods while driving through the Irish countryside, only to find herself trapped in a hidden bunker with three people (and a parrot) who are visited nightly by mythical creatures. This is stylized folk horror that conceptually fits in the Shyamalan wheelhouse. The ex*****on is flawed, but it’s a promising start for the novice filmmaker.

M. Night Shyamalan has become synonymous with creepy thrillers. He brought us “The Sixth Sense,” “Signs,” and “Unbreakable.” Now, his daughter,

11/06/2024

Look for exceptional performances in Ethan Hawke’s biopic “Wildcat” starring daughter Maya Hawke as Southern Gothic writer Flannery O’Connor, who wrote over thirty short stories and two novels before passing away from lupus at 39. Laura Linney, dynamic as ever, plays Flannery’s prim and persistent mother, Regina, plus the film features cameos by Vincent D’Onofrio, Steve Zahn, and Liam Neeson. It was co-written by Shelby Gaines, who pulls double duty by teaming up with his brother Latham to compose the score.

“I’m always irritated by people who imply that writing fiction is an escape from reality. It is a plunge into reality.” - Flannery O'Connor Look for

08/06/2024

L.A.-based writer-director Brett Wagner drew inspiration for “The Big Bend” after visiting the scenic area of southwestern Texas where the story takes place. Two families vacation together while trying to forget about the curve balls life throws at you. Themes of parenting, marriage, health, and money saturate the narrative. Featuring solid performances, breathtaking cinematography, and a young protagonist named Fiona (Delilah Wagner), who becomes the Lone Star State’s version of Kevin McCallister, the film blends comedy with drama. Convicts beware.

L.A.-based writer-director Brett Wagner drew inspiration for “The Big Bend” after visiting the scenic area of southwestern Texas where the story takes

08/06/2024

After losing a loved one, you may long for one more chance to see and hug them. Be careful what you wish for. In Thea Hvistendah’s debut feature, three grieving families are reunited with their dearly departed loved ones, and there are no Peaches & Herb moments. The bereaved walk around like zombies, and the deceased resemble the living dead in the Norwegian thriller written by John Ajvide Lindqvist (“Let the Right One In”). “Handling the Undead” is a meditative, mind-shattering experience that gets under your skin.

After losing a loved one, you may long for one more chance to see and hug them. Be careful what you wish for. In Thea Hvistendah’s debut feature, three

05/06/2024

“Backspot” is the perfect way to kick off Pride month. The q***r cheerleading drama directed by D.W. Waterson takes a grueling look at the physical and mental toll the sport takes on teenage females. The story, written by Joanne Sarazen, is focused on girlfriends Riley (Devery Jacobs) and Amanda (Kudakwashe Rutendo), who are vying for a spot on the all-star Thunderhawks squad led by Coach Eileen (a very good Evan Rachel Wood), who detests the famous song by Dexys Midnight Runners. With themes of body dysmorphia, peer pressure, drugs, and alcohol, the coming-of-age drama soars higher than a basket toss.

“Backspot” is the perfect way to kick off Pride month. The q***r cheerleading drama directed by D.W. Waterson takes a grueling look at the physical and

04/06/2024

The terrifying new trailer for Alien: Romulus is here. The all-new sci-fi/horror thriller from producer Ridley Scott and director/writer Fede Alvarez opens exclusively in theaters nationwide on August 16, 2024.

03/06/2024

“The Dead Don’t Hurt” is more than another Western about men trying to tame the wild frontier. It has elements of classics by John Ford, Anthony Mann, and Clint Eastwood, but the film, written and directed by Mortensen, is primarily a love story about two immigrants, played by Mortensen and Vicky Krieps, who build a wonderful life together in Nevada until the ravages of nefarious men during the Civil War disrupt their harmonious union.

“The Dead Don’t Hurt” is more than another Western about men trying to tame the wild frontier. It has elements of classics by John Ford, Anthony Mann, and

02/06/2024

On the latest 2 MOVIE GUYS podcast, we discuss Ezra, Summer Camp, The Dead Don't Hurt, In a Violent Nature, and Jim Henson Idea Man. You can listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Links below. Have a great day.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2melYuNyVVvUPObQ5r5hFL
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2-movie-guys/id1586036583

02/06/2024

Canadian writer-director Chris Nash (ABCs of Death 2) crafts his version of “Friday the 13th” by stripping away most of the elements of Sean S. Cunningham’s slasher, leaving the graphic violence intact. Crazy Ralph, h***y teenagers, bits of comedy, and Harry Manfredini’s iconic score have been replaced by ingenious kills, amped-up gore, and the sounds of silence. “In a Violent Nature” marks a return to an era when Romero, Raimi, and Fulci ruled the cinema.

Canadian writer-director Chris Nash (ABCs of Death 2) crafts his version of “Friday the 13th” by stripping away most of the elements of Sean S.

01/06/2024

A famous quote goes, “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” The autistic spectrum is wide-ranging, and in the case of the film’s titular character, played by autistic actor William Fitzgerald, he’s a bright and funny 11-year-old who does impressions and finds solace in earlobes. “Ezra” is a warm and touching comedy about a father (Bobby Cannavale) whose good intentions are overshadowed by his tendency to make bad decisions. The excellent supporting cast features Robert De Niro, Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, and Tony Goldwyn, who also directed the film.

A famous quote goes, “If you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism." The autistic spectrum is wide-ranging, and in the case of

31/05/2024

The interview with Viggo Mortensen is up on the 2 MOVIE GUYS podcast. He enjoyed my comparison to The Bridges of Madison County. Listen here.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2r6kSb455KylTzbZoSozpJ
https://podcasts.apple.com/.../2-movie-guys/id1586036583

29/05/2024

We talk about a bunch of movies on this week's 2 MOVIE GUYS podcast. Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/56d3BIbf6cc9UFK3ulZsLE
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2-movie-guys/id1586036583

29/05/2024

Check out the first teaser trailer for - in theaters November 27!

29/05/2024

There’s no doubt that Dr. Ming Wang’s story is a fascinating one. He grew up in China during the 70s Cultural Revolution, then fled to America with $50 in his pocket while overcoming obstacles, including prejudice, eventually becoming a pioneering eye surgeon with degrees from Harvard, MIT, and the University of Maryland. Played by Terry Chen (“Almost Famous”), the faith-driven biopic centers on the doctor working to restore the sight of a blind Indian girl (Mia Swamination) with the assistance of his associate Dr. Mischa Bartnovsky (Greg Kinnear). After encountering several roadblocks, Wang begins to question his faith in the latest release from Angel Studios.

There’s no doubt that Dr. Ming Wang’s story is a fascinating one. He grew up in China during the 70s Cultural Revolution, then fled to America with $50 in

28/05/2024

Glen Powell, who shot to rom-com stardom with “Anyone But You,” brings his undeniable charm to Richard Linklater’s delightful comedy “Hit Man.” The actor, who just moved to Austin, and his alluring and talented costar Adria Arjona bring the heat as the captivating duo breathes life into a true story that appeared in Texas Monthly.

Glen Powell, who shot to rom-com stardom with “Anyone But You," brings his undeniable charm to Richard Linklater’s delightful comedy “Hit Man.” The actor,

26/05/2024

At 87, Ken Loach presents what many believe to be his final film, a poignant addition to his illustrious career. Known for his powerful portrayals of poverty, human rights, and the struggles of blue-collar workers and refugees, Loach has championed social issues since his debut in 1967 with ‘Poor Cow. ‘

Catch “The Oak Room” this weekend at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth as part of their ongoing film series. Screenings occur on Sunday, May 26, at 12, 2, and 4 PM. For tickets and information, go to https://www.themodern.org/film/old-oak

At the age of 87, Ken Loach presents what many believe to be his final film, a poignant addition to his illustrious career. Known for his powerful

25/05/2024

When couples say, “We’re pregnant!” they’re not. She is. Unless you’re Billy Crystal in “Rabbit Test,” guys have it easy. Pregnancy books are somewhat useful, but they should incorporate trigonometry as women discover the importance of angles when it comes to getting comfortable. If you really want to know what to expect during pregnancy, watch the realistic and hilarious (bonus!) “Babes” from Pamela Adlon (“Better Things”) making her feature directorial debut. The story of best friends and expectant moms (Ilana Glazer and Michelle Buteau) tackles childbirth, friendship, and relationships with a humor that’s so relatable, it’s like they’re telling your own pregnancy story. Sidesplitting funny with cameos by various bodily fluids.

When couples say, “We’re pregnant!” they’re not. She is. Unless you’re Billy Crystal in “Rabbit Test,” guys have it easy. Pregnancy books are somewhat

25/05/2024

The fifth ‘Mad Max’ movie from Australian filmmaker George Miller takes place fifteen years before the events of 2015’s “Fury Road.” Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a stunning performance as the younger version of Charlize Theron’s Imperator Furiosa in the origins story. The movie is a visual feast filled with breathtaking stunts, terrific performances, and a haunting score by Tom Holkenborg. “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is a high-octane masterpiece that fuels the mind, body, and soul.

The fifth ‘Mad Max’ movie from Australian filmmaker George Miller takes place fifteen years before the events of 2015’s “Fury Road.” Anya Taylor-Joy

23/05/2024

The living, the dead...can they coexist? - Only in theaters September 6.

23/05/2024

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice in theaters September 6th!

21/05/2024

On the latest 2 MOVIE GUYS podcast, we review IF, Back To Black, and The Strangers: Chapter One. Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Thanks.
https://open.spotify.com/show/094urDRFkXAYZN9ZmfNCzo
https://podcasts.apple.com/.../2-movie-guys/id1586036583

18/05/2024

“The Strangers: Chapter One” is based on the 2008 film by writer-director Bryan Bertino, a Texan who knows how to craft scary-as-hell horror films. Did you see “The Dark and the Wicked”? The franchise featuring antagonists Scarecrow, Dollface, and Pin-Up Girl, gets a reboot under filmmaker Renny Harlin, who’s dabbled in horror, helming “A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master” and “Exorcist: The Beginning.” The new trilogy (shot concurrently) centers on the character Maya, played by Madelaine Petsch from “Riverdale.” This first chapter fails as a standalone film as it wallows in set-up mode resembling a 90-minute trailer. On a bright note, the next two installments can only get better.

“The Strangers: Chapter One” is based on the 2008 film by writer-director Bryan Bertino, a Texan who knows how to craft scary-as-hell horror films. Did

16/05/2024

Morgues are creepy places, but they also make the perfect setting for a horror film. In 1994, Ole Bornedal, inspired by a trip to a Danish mortuary, wrote and directed his feature debut, “Nightwatch.” The film starred 24-year-old Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as student Martin Bork working the night shift at a forensic medical institution while a serial killer stalked women on the streets of Copenhagen. Thirty years later, Bornedal and Coster-Waldau reunite for the sequel “Nightwatch: Demons Are Forever,” which takes place at the same facility, only this time, Martin’s daughter Emma (F***y Leander Bornedal) is watching over the stiffs.

Morgues are creepy places, but they also make the perfect setting for a horror film. In 1994, Ole Bornedal, inspired by a trip to a Danish mortuary, wrote

15/05/2024

Most of us go to the movies to escape the banality of life. But sometimes, there’s comfort in watching a film with characters who are content in their mundane existence. Suddenly, your life isn’t so bad. Joanna Arnow’s dry comedy “The Feeling That the Time for Doing Something Has Passed” finds humor, most of it unintentional and cringe, in the life of 30-something Ann (played by Arnow), a submissive New Yorker who finds gratification in a casual B**M relationship, low-level corporate job, and contentious visits with her parents.

Most of us go to the movies to escape the banality of life. But sometimes, there’s comfort in watching a film with characters who are content in their

14/05/2024

Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy, and Tony-winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Broadway’s The Color Purple) as Elphaba, a young woman misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart. In theaters November 27th

13/05/2024

On the latest 2 MOVIE GUYS podcast, we review Evil Does Not Exist, Poolman, and Force of Nature: The Dry 2. Listen here:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4Rn8lcsmngPRJX6MGDe6g2
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../2-movie-guys/id1586036583

12/05/2024

In the first of two podcasts this week, we review KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES and LAST STOP IN YUMA COUNTY. Tomorrow, we'll release the second podcast, which covers Evil Does Not Exist, Poolman, and Force of Nature: The Dry 2. Listen here.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/094urDRFkXAYZN9ZmfNCzo
Apple Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/094urDRFkXAYZN9ZmfNCzo