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‘M3GAN’: That’s No Child’s Toy!

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A robotics engineer at a toy company creates a too-life-like doll for her recently orphaned niece, that takes on a life of its own!

So, M3GAN wastes no time diving right into the story, and neither will we! Cady’s beleaguered parents were trying to get her into some kind of snow vacation up in the mountains whilst lessening her fixation on screen time, especially the goofy Furby-like Purr-fect Pet that’s the latest rage in kiddie toys. And in the first of many predictable scenes, while Cady’s tired parents argue in their chain-less stopped in the middle of the road car, a gigantic set of semi-lights come barreling right at them, causing everything to irrevocably change.

Cady (Violet McGraw) is the lone survivor, and though her aunt Gemma (Allison Williams) insists she wants to take Cady in for at least the time being, it’s quite clear that while Gemma is an engineering genius, she has no idea what to do with Cady at all. Sadly throughout the entire film, we actually learn very little about Gemma personally, how she fell from highbrow robotics engineering all the way down to toy manufacturing, for a profit-obsessed boss at that, what her personal life might have been like before this tragedy, we get none of that. Gemma mentions that she and her sister weren’t terribly close when taking custody of Cady, which of course adds to her already mountainous guilt, but that’s about it. What we do know about Gemma is that she loves to create things, robotic things specifically, and while it’s a wild coincidence that Gemma happens to be the main creator of those dumbass Purr-Fect Pets, what she’s really passionate about is the robotic doll she and her coworkers have been working on in secret.

It really seems like Gemma leads a very closed life, her house is practically empty and barren of decoration, she has/had no significant other, younglings, or pets that we can tell, and she’s simply obsessed with things like computer codes and synthetic skins and adaptive AI, but in order to make what? A too-life-like doll that can basically replace the need for a nanny or babysitter, yes, but also eventually supplant teachers, other peers in the appropriate age bracket, and even the parents themselves! Apparently, while Gemma can indeed code freaking adaptive Artificial Intelligence into her secret project, she doesn’t bother with things like Grandfathered Sci-Fi tropes, Asimov’s Laws of Robotics, or even the very real need for basic human connection. After all, Cady’s a child, and frankly, Gemma has absolutely no idea how to deal with her, and whether she realizes it or not, Gemma oozes awkwardness in trying to interact with the tiny human. I just want to take this opportunity to point out the irony in someone like Gemma making kiddie toys.

The stuff going on around Gemma is somewhat more interesting – the nosy Karen-like neighbor Celia (Lori Dungey) who absolutely refuses to leash her damned dog that always escapes through the hole in the fence between their properties, is absolutely asking for her comeuppance; coworkers Tess (Jen Van Epps) and Cole (Brian Jordan Alvarez) are all-in on the secret M3GAN Doll project, even helping Gemma to convince money-hungry boss David (Ronny Chieng) and his corporate thief of an assistant Kurt (Stephane Garneau-Monten) of the projects viability over those stupid Purr-fect Pets. The state-appointed therapist Lydia (Amu Usherwood) isn’t helping Cady at all, seemingly more concerned with the viability of Gemma as a caretaker, and as is the case more often than not with situations like these, demands Cady conform to her new reality without delay or protest.

After a night of awkward attempts at bonding over Gemma’s collectibles (“They’re not toys, you don’t take ‘em out of the box or play with ‘em”), the previous incarnation of M3GAN that Gemma called Bruce and capitalism made on youngling greed, Gemma is convinced the best solution is to finish the M3GAN Doll project and use Cady as her first test subject. Because of family, right?

And after all, M3GAN really is a synthetic-sheathed miracle of human engineering and genius, at least in the beginning. She’s funny, kind and caring, adaptive to damn near any situation, constantly upgrading and applying everything helpful possible to her first Imprinted child Cady, and more overprotective than a rabid mama bear. Thus far all the adults in Cady’s current life are either ignoring her, fobbing her off on someone else who can potentially “deal” with poor Cady better, or insisting she acts some kind of counter-intuitive way, usually adult-ish. Cady herself represents a problem that needs dealing with, instead of a miniature human that needs time and space to grieve for farks sake. It doesn’t help at all that Gemma tried to instruct M3GAN not to mention death or anything relating to it, to Cady. So when M3GAN and Cady Imprint each other, the newborn unfettered AI with the strength of several fully grown men and the desperately lonely orphaned girl, it’s a recipe for impending disaster!

First, the damned dog needs to be dealt with, permanently. We all knew the second the dog’s teeth met any part of Cady’s skin, that the doggy, and likely his owner too, were going to get disappeared, and soon. The film made a point of glossing over the actual death of the poor doggy and turned Celia’s death into a Chucky-like farce, so it was still fine for a PG-13 rating. (Sigh.) Then for some reason, Gemma thinks it’s a good idea to send a more recalcitrant Cady to an outdoorsy camp kind of deal, ostensibly just a campground program for fosters and troubles, but the place seems a lot more like a juvenile offender detention center wrapped up in postcard-scenery. Especially when the mini mass murderer in training the son of one of the camp counselors Brandon (Jack Cassidy) decides that Cady and her big-size dolly are the perfect next targets for his adolescent wrath – the scene where M3GAN contorts in a fury and chases the boy down like a rabid animal, showcasing M3GAN’s otherness and complete lack of restraint, is particularly well-done.

Time is starting to run out, Cady and M3GAN are far too close and the killer bot is starting to ice out anyone else in Cady’s life, at first socially and now quite literally. Gemma’s demonstration of M3GAN to the investors as the next big toy requires Cady’s participation, and the poor girl is unraveling under the ignorance of adults and the smothering care of her best friend-bot. Gemma is finally realizing, a little too freaking late for my taste, the potential wickedness of the thing she created, embodying the old adage, “Just because you can do a thing, doesn’t mean you should.” And now that Cady finally has the attention of the adults she’s been so desperately seeking, it’s not a moment too soon, because stopping M3GAN is going to require some creative thinking!

The physical acting of M3GAN by Amie Donald for any scenes that the animatronic puppet itself could not do, full of Ring-like contortions and demanding presence from such a small body, is truly impressive in its terrible beauty. Donald wore a static silicone M3GAN mask made by Morot FX, to be later replaced by a CGI version of M3GAN’s face to match the animatronic, and the adult voice of Jenna Davis coming out of that tiny frame gives M3GAN another stamp of wrongness. The overall effect is a bit like a murderous crazed Anime version of Alice from Alice in Wonderland.

Catch the killer adventures of a jealous best-friend-bot in M3GAN, on Amazon Prime now!

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Masters of the Air: A Gritty Tribute to the Heroes of the Skies

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Rating: 4.5/5

Apple TV’s Masters of the Air takes viewers on an intense journey through the harrowing experiences of the Eighth Air Force during World War II. This limited series, produced by the dynamic duo of Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, delivers a gripping portrayal of the bravery and sacrifice of the young men who fought in the skies over Europe. With a focus on authenticity and emotional depth, Masters of the Air stands as a worthy successor to its predecessors, *Band of Brothers* and The Pacific.

The series excels in its meticulous attention to detail, from the period-accurate planes to the stark realism of aerial combat. The visual effects are nothing short of spectacular, immersing the audience in the chaos and danger of high-altitude warfare. The show’s cinematography captures the vastness of the skies and the claustrophobic confines of the bombers, adding to the tension that permeates every scene.

Masters of the Air is anchored by strong performances from its ensemble cast. The actors deliver nuanced portrayals of their characters, conveying the fear, camaraderie, and resolve that defined the Eighth Air Force’s mission. The series doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of war, including the psychological toll on the airmen and the devastating losses they endured.

However, *Masters of the Air* isn’t just about action and heroism. It also explores the complex moral dilemmas faced by the pilots and crew, adding layers to the narrative that elevate it above typical war dramas. The series’ pacing is deliberate, allowing for moments of introspection amid the chaos, which deepens the emotional impact.

In conclusion, *Masters of the Air* is a powerful and moving tribute to the unsung heroes of the skies. Its combination of historical accuracy, stunning visuals, and compelling storytelling makes it a must-watch for fans of war dramas and history buffs alike. Apple TV has once again proven its prowess in delivering top-tier original content, and *Masters of the Air* is a shining example of their commitment to quality storytelling.

With its emotionally charged narrative and breathtaking visuals, *Masters of the Air* earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. This series is not just a show—it’s an experience that honors the legacy of the brave airmen who risked everything for freedom.

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Ramen Akaneko – A Flavorful Journey into Culinary Magic

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★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Red Cat Ramen or Ramen Akaneko is a captivating and unique anime that blends the worlds of culinary artistry and magical realism, now streaming on Crunchyroll. The series centers on Yashiro Tamako, 

a young girl who has a dislike of cats and applies for a part-time position at a ramen joint run by cats.

The anime unfolds as Tamako and the cat staff embark on a journey to revive the struggling ramen shop, which has fallen out of favor with the locals. Each episode showcases a different cat and their interaction with Tamako through the intricate process of running the restaurant from daily cat brushings to customer service. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, from rival chefs to eccentric food critics, each contributing to Tamako’s growth.

The story is not just about food; it’s about tradition, legacy, and the bonds that are forged through the act of cooking. The cat staff with their enigmatic personalities and vast wisdom, become both a mentors and  friends to Tamako, helping her uncover the true essence of a restaurant.

Ramen Akaneko stands out in the anime world for its unique combination of culinary exploration and fantasy storytelling. The series is visually stunning, with each ramen dish meticulously animated to highlight the artistry involved in ramen-making. The anime doesn’t just stop at visuals; it delves deep into the cultural and emotional significance of ramen, offering viewers a rich, sensory experience.

The characters are well-developed, particularly Tamako, whose journey from a novice to a fully fledged staff member is both inspiring and relatable. The staff, with its mysterious aura, adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the story. Their dynamic relationship drives the narrative, making each episode feel like a new chapter in their evolving partnership.

Bunzo (文蔵)

Voiced by: Kenjiro Tsuda[3]

Sasaki (佐々木)

Voiced by: Noriaki Sugiyama[4]

Sabu (サブ)

Voiced by: Michiyo Murase[4]

Hana (ハナ)

Voiced by: Rie Kugimiya[4]

Krishna (クリシュナ, Kurishuna)

Voiced by: Saori Hayami[4]

Tamako Yashiro (社珠子, Yashiro Tamako)

Voiced by: Kurumi

The anime’s pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of light-hearted moments, intense culinary battles, and touching emotional scenes.

For fans of cooking anime, Ramen Akaneko is a feast for the senses. The attention to detail in the cooking sequences is impressive, and the way the show incorporates elements of fantasy makes it stand out from other food-themed anime. Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast, a fantasy lover, or just looking for a heartwarming story, Ramen Akaneko is a delightful watch that should be on your must-see list this year.

Ramen Akaneko is a beautifully crafted anime that offers more than just a visual feast. It’s a story of passion, perseverance, and the magic that happens when food is made with love and care. With its stunning animation, engaging characters, and heartwarming plot, this series is a must-watch for anime fans and foodies alike. Don’t miss out on this flavorful journey—head over to Crunchyroll and dive into the world of Ramen Akaneko.

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Monkey Man Review

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Not only does Dev Patel star in Monkey Man but it is his directorial debut and also boasts a co-writing credit!

Dev Patel plays a downtrodden young man living in the slums of a fictional Indian city named Yatana. Known only as ‘Kid’ he scrapes together a meager living being beaten by more popular fighters in a rigged underground fighting club. Kid fights under the moniker of ‘Monkey Man’ whilst wearing a gorilla mask. Using his finely honed street smarts Kid infiltrates an elite private club populated by the city’s most powerful people.

We follow Kid as he climbs up the levels of corruption; to face not only the evil government syndicate but his own traumatic past.

Having only seen Patel in comedic roles such as; SKINS, David Copperfield, and Shyamalan’s The Last Airbender (unintentionally comedic perhaps?) it was a revelation to see him in a serious role. Since Monkey Man uses dialogue so sparsely, it was impressive how Patel portrayed an individual with severe trauma and rage simmering just below the surface. Not to mention the extreme physical prowess and transformation Patel displays throughout the movie. The numerous fight scenes (although extremely gory) are beautifully choreographed to an amazing soundtrack by Jed Kurzel. Worth mentioning is the film’s strategic use of mirrors. Kid and his trauma are reflected back at him letting the audience know he can’t hide from who he is, or who he is to become.

It’s not just the fight scenes, the entire movie is beautifully stylized with the use of color and movement. Juxtaposition is used artfully throughout. With the gritty realness and griminess of the intricate fight scenes. Much like the deprivation of the city slums juxtaposed with the luminous skyscrapers.

There are so many running themes throughout the narrative. The opening scene tells the story of Hanuman, the Hindu monkey god who grasps the sun believing it to be a juicy mango. Subsequently, Hanuman is punished by the gods. Kid’s story mirrors that of Hanuman’s. Even the monkey grasping the sun could be seen as foreshadowing the reason for the severe scarring on Kid’s hands.

Patel himself (who grew up in London, UK) recalled spending his childhood “ashamed” (Aryan P, 2024) of his “Indianness”(Aryan P, 2024). Using Monkey Man he, like his protagonist Kid, reclaims a part of himself. Before creating the film Patel said he was going to “double down and triple down on the culture in every single way” (Aryan P, 2024). The movie is drenched in South Asian influences from the Bollywood-inspired score to the sociopolitical commentary. These influences are magnified in my personal favorite scene in the movie. Kid is rebuilding his strength by punching a basmati rice punchbag. Patel doubled down on the cultural influence with the use of a Bhangra call and response, a style of music and dance from South Asia. The kid punches the basmati bag while another character serenades his movements on the tabla (Indian hand drums). There is no other way to describe this scene but ‘cool’. Patel definitely fulfilled his promise of making Indian culture cool and exciting.

It’s hard to believe this is Patel’s first time in the director’s chair. The movie is expertly directed with its visceral power. When Kid emerges from the river, his hero’s journey truly begins. The frame immediately clears as the audience rises from the river with Kid. The neon haziness and grime from the previous scenes are gone. The audience feels like it can finally take a deep breath as we are treated to beautiful shots of the overarching Indian forest. Kid has returned to his roots.

Being a white western person I can’t quite appreciate all of the cultural nuance and social commentary. Patel remarked he made the movie for people who look like him and people who don’t (Aryan P, 2024) Monkey Man has many universal truths weaving through the narrative that makes it a satisfying watch for everyone.

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