Moviegoers everywhere will experience a true #TakeMeBackTuesday with the magic of the original Step Up movie returning to the big screen for one night, kicking off a new generation of passions, obsessions and rivalries tied to the highly anticipated premiere of the new YouTube Red Original series, Step Up: High Water. In addition to the original Step Upmovie, the “Step Up: High Water Premiere Event” will feature the first episode of the Lionsgate TV series Step Up: High Water, executive produced by Channing and Jenna Dewan Tatum, Adam Shankman, Jennifer Gibgot and Holly Sorensen. The event will also feature a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the series.
The “Step Up: High Water Premiere Event” screens in cinemas nationwide for one night on Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. local time from Fathom Events. Following the cinema event, Step Up: High Water launches on YouTube Red Wednesday, January 31.
Tickets for “Step Up: High Water Premiere Event” can be purchased online by visiting www.FathomEvents.com or at participating theater box offices. Fans throughout the U.S. will be able to enjoy the event in more than 750 select movie theaters. A complete list of theater locations is available at the Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change).
Based on the Step Up film franchise that grossed $650 million at the global box office, Step Up: High Water is a heart-pounding, sexy, music-filled 10-episode drama focused on several ambitious young dancers in a contemporary performing arts school in Atlanta. The edgy and authentic new series touches on real issues around diversity and complex relationships — and of course, boasts some serious dance moves.
Executive Producers Channing and Jenna Dewan Tatum, Adam Shankman, Jennifer Gibgot and Meredith Milton are bringing back the flashback feels to audiences nationwide, reuniting after 11 years for this new original drama series. Holly Sorensen (Recovery Road, Make It Or Break It) serves as series Creator, Executive Producer and Showrunner. Original songs for the series are created by four-time Grammy® Award-winning singer/songwriter Jason “PooBear” Boyd and “Jingle” Jared Gutstadt, the President, co-founder, and Chief Creative Officer of Jingle Punks.
The series stars Ne-Yo as “Sage Odom,” the legendary founder of Atlanta’s famed High Water Performing Arts School. Naya Rivera plays “Collette,” a former dancer turned High Water administrator whose passion for her students is only matched by her history with Sage and secrets of her own. Lauryn McClain (Tyler Perry’s Daddy’s Little Girls, Spider-Man [animated series]) plays “Janelle,” an ambitious dancer navigating the Atlanta hip-hop scene after she and her twin brother “Tal,” played by Petrice Jones(iBoy, Play The Devil), are uprooted from suburban Ohio to live with their “Uncle Al” played by Faizon Love (Couples Retreat, Elf). As the pair settle into their new home, new school and new life, they meet “Dondre,” played by Marcus Mitchell (High Strung, Odious), who introduces them to Atlanta’s party scene where they learn that High Water is auditioning dancers.
“The Step Up franchise has put a well-deserved spotlight on the professional dance scene, and the new Step Up: High Waterseries will make it shine even brighter,” said Fathom Events CEO Ray Nutt. “We’re excited to partner with YouTube Red for the first time to give audiences an exclusive look at the first episode on the big screen, paired with the original film, so moviegoers can get the full Step Up experience.”
“YouTube Red is excited to present the next generation story of the compelling Step Up franchise,” said Susanne Daniels, Global Head of Original Content, YouTube. “We are thrilled to be in business with the original team behind the iconic films.”
“Step Up: High Water combines an iconic property, a visionary network partner and incredible world-class talent,” said Lionsgate Television Group Chairman Kevin Beggs. “The result is a noisy, high-octane, music-filled addition to YouTube Red’s programming line-up that will continue to build their ever-expanding audience.”
Thanksgiving may not have the sheer volume of movies as Christmas, but it’s no less special when it comes to heartwarming, funny, and even chaotic films that capture the holiday spirit. Here’s a ranked list of the top Thanksgiving movies you should add to your holiday viewing tradition.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Why Watch: The definitive Thanksgiving movie, John Hughes’ comedy about an unlikely duo (Steve Martin and John Candy) trying to make it home for Thanksgiving is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10)
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Why Watch: This animated classic reminds us of the simple joys of friendship and togetherness, all with Snoopy’s iconic charm. Perfect for family viewing.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
The Blind Side (2009)
Why Watch: A feel-good drama about family, generosity, and second chances, this Sandra Bullock-led film captures the spirit of Thanksgiving through its heartwarming true story.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Pieces of April (2003)
Why Watch: A raw and quirky indie film starring Katie Holmes as a black sheep daughter trying to host Thanksgiving for her estranged family. It’s funny, awkward, and touching in equal measure.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Why Watch: Directed by Jodie Foster, this chaotic comedy-drama starring Holly Hunter captures the ups and downs of a family Thanksgiving in all its messy glory.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Addams Family Values (1993)
Why Watch: The hilarious Thanksgiving play sequence alone earns this gothic comedy a spot on the list. The Addams family’s twisted charm is perfect for holiday laughs.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Dutch (1991)
Why Watch: This underrated road-trip comedy follows Ed O’Neill as a man escorting his girlfriend’s bratty son home for Thanksgiving, delivering laughs and heartfelt moments.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Why Watch: Though more closely associated with Christmas, this classic opens during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and celebrates holiday magic and kindness.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Scent of a Woman (1992)
Why Watch: Al Pacino’s Oscar-winning performance anchors this drama about loyalty and redemption, set against a backdrop of Thanksgiving break.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Tower Heist (2011)
- Why Watch: A lighthearted heist comedy featuring Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller, set during the Thanksgiving season. It’s not deep, but it’s a fun, entertaining watch.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Honorable Mentions
The Ice Storm (1997): A dark Thanksgiving drama for those who prefer serious fare.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986): Thanksgiving frames this Woody Allen classic about family dynamics.
With this lineup, you’ll have plenty of options to keep your Thanksgiving movie marathon as memorable as the feast itself!
directed by Prashanth Neel, brings a bold and gritty spectacle to the big screen, marking a triumphant return for Prabhas in an action-heavy role. Known for his high-energy, raw style (seen in KGF), Neel continues his signature approach here, blending intense action scenes with grandiose settings reminiscent of epic sagas like Game of Thrones. The film revolves around Deva (Prabhas), a powerful yet calm figure with a complex past, and his involvement in a politically charged power struggle with Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character Varadha. This layered storyline introduces us to the fictitious city of Khansar, where betrayals and power dynamics keep viewers on edge.
Critics generally appreciate Prabhas’s magnetic performance, noting that he captures the larger-than-life heroism he’s celebrated for since Baahubali. His portrayal, paired with intense fight choreography, keeps the audience engaged, particularly during standout sequences that elevate the film’s dramatic intensity. Prithviraj’s character as Deva’s friend adds an intriguing dynamic, though Shruti Haasan’s role feels underused. While fans of action-packed cinema and Prabhas’s iconic style will enjoy the exhilarating visuals and powerful cinematography, some critics feel the plot loses momentum in the second half, with multiple subplots that dilute its emotional depth. The story is intentionally left open-ended, setting the stage for Salaar: Part 2.
Overall, Salaar is an ambitious action film that will satisfy fans of Prabhas and high-octane spectacles. However, those seeking a tight narrative or deep emotional connections might find it lacking. I’d rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars—a solid experience for action enthusiasts, with room for a more focused storyline in its sequel.
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Rating: (4/5)
Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, is a visually ambitious sci-fi film featuring an ensemble of Indian cinema legends, including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone. The film is set in a dystopian future with a storyline that weaves mythology and science fiction, creating a unique cinematic experience for viewers.
The film’s narrative unfolds in a futuristic society where technology and ancient themes intersect. It begins with an immersive setup that introduces us to Prabhas’ character, Bhairava, who grapples with complex moral and existential questions in a world marked by political and ethical turmoil. Although the pacing can feel slow in parts, especially as it establishes the mythological underpinnings, the intensity and scope build significantly as the story progresses.
One of the most captivating aspects is the stunning visual effects. The production team, with a budget reportedly over 400 crore INR, utilized advanced CGI to craft expansive landscapes, dramatic space battles, and futuristic cityscapes that resemble scenes from Hollywood sci-fi giants. The action sequences, particularly those featuring Bachchan, stand out with their thrilling choreography and careful dramatic build-up. These sequences balance between traditional Indian cinema stylings and Hollywood’s polished sci-fi tropes.
While Kalki 2898 AD relies heavily on genre conventions, it manages to bring a fresh twist by blending mythological symbolism with modern sci-fi elements. However, some may find the film’s narrative occasionally predictable, and the focus on visual spectacle occasionally overshadows character development. Yet, the powerhouse performances from the lead cast, particularly Bachchan and Padukone, provide the emotional depth needed to keep audiences engaged.
In summary, Kalki 2898 AD is an impressive venture into the sci-fi genre for Indian cinema, successfully balancing myth with high-tech fantasy. While not without flaws, it’s an enjoyable and bold cinematic experience that’s worth a watch for fans of both Indian mythology and science fiction.
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