Review: ‘Fisherman’s Friends’ is music to my ears.

A fast living, cynical London music executive (Daniel Mays) heads to a remote Cornish village on a stag weekend where he’s pranked by his boss (Noel Clarke) into trying to sign a group of shanty singing fishermen (led by James Purefoy). He becomes the ultimate “fish out of water” as he struggles to gain the respect or enthusiasm of the unlikely boy band and their families (including Tuppence Middleton) who value friendship and community over fame and fortune. As he’s drawn deeper into the traditional way of life he’s forced to reevaluate his own integrity and ultimately question what success really means.

This film oozes with charm, from the storyline to the cast. Based on loyalty in more than one way, Fisherman’s Friends is uncompromisingly heartfelt. 10 fishermen who love to sing; they are crass and down-to-earth and it makes them all the more loveable. Their nonchalance helps make this a real rags-to-riches story. Watching a group of men represent a time and place that are the complete opposite of London’s modernized hustle and bustle is essential for understanding why Danny makes the decisions he does as the film progresses. The idea of family and tradition play heavily and to the film’s ultimate success. The music is both uplifting and haunting. Sea shanties, some you will recognize and others that will be altogether new to your ears, envelope the viewer. I adored just how many numbers were performed during the film.

The cast is just lovely. Truly an ensemble piece when it comes down to it, each actor is integral in telling this unique story. They are protective of each other, telling the history of the town and its residents through song, stories, and a pint. James Purefoy nails the rough around the edges, unofficial leader of the group. You fully buy his gruff yet protective nature. Daniel Mays as Danny strikes a perfect balance of genuine gentleman and hustler. Tuppence Middleton as Alwyn is a joy to watch. The chemistry between each member of this cast is superb. You’d think they weren’t actually actors at all, especially knowing the Fisherman’s Friends is a true story. Director Chris Foggins has given us a real gem of a film in a time we all need reminding how beautiful staying put can be. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of the ocean and some melodic voices that are sure to capture your heart.

On Demand and Digital July 24, 2020

FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS is directed by Chris Foggin (Kids in Love) and co-written by Meg Leonard (Blithe Spirit, Finding Your Feet) and Nick Moorcroft (Blithe Spirit, Finding Your Feet).  The film stars Daniel Mays (1917, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story), James Purefoy (“The Following,” “Rome”), David Hayman (Blinded by the Light, Sid and Nancy) and Tuppence Middleton (“Sense8,” The Imitation Game).

Reel News Daily Exclusive Clip: Go Behind-the-scenes of the WAR & PEACE mini-series coming to Blu-Ray May 10th.

Anchor_Bay_Entertainment_logoWar & Peace blue ray box artBBC recently produced a spectacular new adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s timeless novel, where three young people experience life, love and loss against the epic backdrop of Russia’s wars with Napoleon. The 6 episode mini-series was filled to the brim with talented actors that included Lily James, Paul Dano, James Norton, Tuppence Middleton, and Jim Broadbent to name a few. With breathtaking period costumes and sweeping cinematography, Director Tom Harper has successfully created a magical adaptation that is as heart-rending and exhilarating as Tolstoy’s original work. Take a look at our exclusive clip of Harper and the cast at the very first read-through of WAR & PEACE.

WAR & PEACE

will be available on Blu-ray and DVD on May 10th from Anchor Bay Entertainment

Lily James as Natasha Rostov

Lily James as Natasha Rostov

Paul Dano as Pierre Bezukhov

Paul Dano as Pierre Bezukhov

James Norton as Prince Andrei

James Norton as Prince Andrei

New Trailer for ‘Sense8’ Netflix Series from The Wachowskis looks scary and scandalous

Sense8_NBO_12_02916_R_BSense8_BER_11_01902_R_BSense8_ICE_02_01096_R1_B
One moment links 8 minds in disparate parts of the world, putting 8 strangers in each other’s lives, each other’s secrets, and in terrible danger.

All ​12 episodes of the global dramatic thriller will launch Friday, June 5 ​only on Netflix​.

From the unparalleled creative minds of The Wachowskis (“The Matrix”​ trilogy,​ “Cloud Atlas”)​ and J. Michael Straczynski (Clint Eastwood’s “Changeling​,” ​”World War Z”), as well as Grant Hill (“The Matrix” trilogy, “Cloud Atlas”).

The international cast includes: Brian J. Smith, Tuppence Middleton, Jamie Clayton, Miguel Angel Silvestre, Tina Desai, Doona Bae, Aml Ameen and Max Riemelt. Also, Daryl Hannah, Naveen Andrews, Terrence Mann, Freema Agyeman, Alfonso Herrera, Erendira Ibarra, Adam Shapiro, Ness Bautista​ and ​​​Joe Pantoliano.

Unlike anything seen on television before, Sense8 pushes the boundaries in style, scope and story. For more information about #Sense8, ​follow the series on Twitter.

Michael’s Review: ‘Jupiter Ascending’- Get Ready to Witness Science Fiction at It’s Worst

Jupiter Ascending poster

There are bad movies and then there are BAD movies, Jupiter Ascending, the newest film from directing duo Andy and Lana Wachowski might be the worst you see all year. Where do I begin? Let’s start at the beginning. Remember last summer when Warner Brothers abruptly delayed the release of the film weeks before it was scheduled to open wide? A film which was supposed be one of Warner Brothers tent pole films for the summer of 2014 suddenly cast off to the movie junkyard known as February! Unheard of! But after viewing this film, you can tell why the studios was reluctant to release it. The $175 million dollar sci-fi film by the directors of The Matrix was suppose to be a slam dunk, but this dog will go down as one of the biggest disappointments in cinematic history. Still not convinced? Well let’s dissect this film’s plot shall we? Read More →