SHOULD I WATCH IT?
- Heart Of Hollywood Team
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Our Heart Of Hollywood Magazine Critics’ Thoughts on Recent Movies
By Gilda Baum-Lappe and Sandy Rodriguez
QUEEN OF THE RING
This inspirational sports drama that tells the true story of Mildred "Millie" Burke, a pioneering female professional wrestler. Directed and written by Ash Avildsen, the film stars Emily Bett Rickards in a standout performance as Burke. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Josh Lucas, Tyler Posey, and Walton Goggins. Martin Kove, renowned for his role as John Kreese in The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai, adds a unique touch to the ensemble.
The story focuses on a real-life single mother who becomes a trailblazing athlete after meeting a flawed, sometimes violent, but ultimately impactful partner. It’s important to highlight that the plot never resorts to "woke" tropes and can be very inspirational for anyone facing adversity. —S.R.
BLACK BAG
Black Bag is a sleek, gripping thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The film smartly balances suspense and action while exploring themes of trust, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. The cinematography and pacing feel stylish and modern, with just the right amount of tension throughout.
The main actors deliver strong performances. Michael Fassbender once again proves his talent for playing conflicted, intense characters. As always, he commands the screen with his brooding presence; even his silences feel loaded, showcasing what a talented actor he is.
And then there’s Cate Blanchett—she’s the film’s secret weapon. She practically reshapes the story every time she’s on screen. Blanchett has this uncanny ability to be both enigmatic and totally commanding, making her character feel like a puppetmaster pulling strings you didn’t even notice. Her scenes are electric and remind you why she’s one of the greatest actors working today.
Their chemistry adds an extra layer of intrigue, making Black Bag not just a stylish thriller but a story you can’t look away from. It knows exactly what it’s doing. The plot keeps you guessing, and the pacing strikes a perfect balance between slow-burn tension and bursts of action. – G.B.L.
One of the most captivating aspects of Black Bag is the portrayal of a glamorous couple at the heart of the story. The beautifully shot film includes scenes packed with attractive people, intrigue, betrayal, and dark humor.
Keep in mind that though the film’s runtime isn’t long, the dense storytelling can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with espionage movies. The complex, dialogue-heavy plot demands your full attention. —S.R.
NOVOCAINE
Novocaine is loud, fast, and unapologetically violent, but it knows exactly what it is: pure, pulpy fun.
The film is packed with bloody, over-the-top action sequences and dark humor, making for an entertaining, if occasionally overwhelming, thrill ride. (I saw many ladies in the theater covering their eyes!)
Directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen, this is a wild, high-energy action-comedy that doesn’t hold back. Jack Quaid, whose parents are Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid, stars as Nate Caine, a mild-mannered bank worker born without the ability to feel pain. Nate finds himself caught in a chaotic rescue mission after his colleague—and secret crush—Sherry Margrave, played with charm and grit by Amber Midthunder, is kidnapped by ruthless criminals.
Quaid’s mix of vulnerability and reluctant heroism holds the chaos together, and the chemistry between him and Midthunder gives the story a welcome emotional core.
Ray Nicholson—the son of the great Jack Nicholson, who, unfortunately, hasn’t been seen on screen for several years—brings a menacing yet unpredictable presence as the gang’s violent leader, while Jacob Batalon adds heart and humor as Nate’s unlikely gamer friend-turned-sidekick. Betty Gabriel also stands out as a sharp, no-nonsense police officer determined to unravel the madness. – G.B.L.
MICKEY 17
If you loved Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite, be aware that Mickey 17 is a very different type of movie. This is a sci-fi thriller, with impressive special effects, about people leaving this planet. One
of these individuals is Mickey, played by Robert Pattinson. He is expendable, which in this context means that every time he dies, a new Mickey is created.
Fans of Bong’s work probably expect social commentary. It’s there, but mostly there’s political satire. While the director has said that Mark Ruffalo’s villain isn’t based on any specific person, there’s an undeniable sense of real-world critique that might please or displease audiences based on their political leanings.
Toni Collette plays the villain’s wife with comedic flair. This character is less controversial and more fun to watch. This actress has been simply excellent in all her roles throughout her career, and her turn in Mickey 17 is hilarious. –S.R.
THE PENGUIN LESSONS
Directed by Peter Cattaneo, The Penguin Lessons is a heartwarming film that masterfully blends humor, drama, and historical context.
Set against the backdrop of 1976 Buenos Aires during a period of political upheaval, the story follows Tom, an English teacher portrayed by the ever-witty Steve Coogan. Tom’s life takes an unexpected turn when he rescues a penguin, found in the mud at a beach in Uruguay, where he went for a long weekend.
He is advised to name the penguin Juan Salvador, yes, like the name in Spanish for the main character in the popular early 70s book Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach.
Tom is not initially interested in the penguin and pets are actually forbidden at the elite boys’ school where he teaches. Still, this unlikely companionship becomes a catalyst for personal growth, not only for Tom but also for his students and colleagues.
Coogan delivers a standout performance, infusing Tom with a blend of cynicism and vulnerability that makes his character’s transformation both believable and touching. His interactions with Juan Salvador are particularly endearing, showcasing a softer side to his typically sardonic persona. The supporting cast, including Jonathan Pryce as the headmaster and Björn Gustafsson as a colleague, The supporting cast, including Jonathan Pryce as the headmaster and Björn Gustafsson as a colleague, provide excellent performances that enrich the narrative.
The film strikes a delicate balance between lighthearted moments and the serious political climate of the time. While it doesn’t delve deeply into the era’s violence, it acknowledges the historical context, offering viewers a glimpse into Argentina’s “Dirty War.” This approach allows the story to maintain its uplifting tone without ignoring the gravity of the surrounding events.
Visually, the movie captivates with amazing production design that transports audiences to 1970s Argentina. The cinematography lends a dreamlike quality to the locations, enhancing the film’s nostalgic feel.
The Penguin Lessons is a delightful film that showcases the transformative power of unexpected friendships. Coogan’s engaging performance, combined with Peter Cattaneo’s thoughtful direction, results in a movie that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. It’s a testament to how small acts of kindness can lead to profound personal change, all set against a richly depicted historical backdrop. It will touch your heart! –-G.B.L.
Editorial Advisor Gilda Baum-Lappe (right) and Magazine Editor Sandy Rodriguez (left) on the set of Cirtics’ Corner. Keep an eye out for their upcoming movie reviews and lifestyle coverage on Instagram @heartofhollywoodmagazine
Want to feature your brand in Heart of Hollywood Magazine?
Sign up here: https://forms.gle/nx2e87kdEwFNHPVz9. Let’s make it happen!
Not a subscriber yet? By subscribing to our magazine, you will receive direct access to future issues without needing a coupon. Subscribe now to get a direct link to download the latest issue and enjoy seamless access to all upcoming editions.
Subscribe here: https://www.heartofhollywoodmagazine.com/subscribe