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San Diego International Film Festival 2018 Opening Night Film: ‘Can You Ever Forgive Me?’

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Celebrity biographer Lee Israel has faded into obscurity, and launches a brand new nefarious way to recapture her writing skills and make money, aided by her shady friend Jack Hock.

So there’s just no way around not giving away the sketchy actions Lee takes to get her head back above water, but before that, we get introduced to Lee herself in the form of Melissa McCarthy. Lee has almost nothing – no significant other, just her ancient cat Jersey; her apartment has a serious fly problem and she’s more than three months behind on rent; and her notoriety as a scabrous biographer of various celebrities has left her with a reputation the equivalent of a tabloid reporter dipped in doo-doo.

In her desperation to make money, Lee begins bringing her old books and several prized celebrity-reply letters to sell to collectors, as she comes across what for her must be a brilliant idea – fake her own celebrity reply letters from the likes of Dorothy Parker and others, with the help of her flaming drug-selling friend Jack Hock (Richard E. Grant).

Jack, despite his foibles with drugs and pretty little gay boys, is one of the few bright spots in an otherwise very unhappy movie. Perhaps due to McCarthy’s previous film credits as a comedian, there are several apparently unintentionally funny moments sprinkled throughout the movie, but on the whole, ‘Can You Ever Forgive Me?’ is as unhappy as Lee herself.

Israel is portrayed as a rather unlikable person to begin with – she’s awkward and blunt, rude and uncaring, and quietly desperate in a way that manages to push away every single last person who tries to help her. The date with the lesbian bookseller goes nowhere, poor selfish Jack ends up letting dear Jersey die, and the FBI is beginning to close in on Lee’s little counterfeit letter racket. Though even facing potential jail time doesn’t seem to phase Lee, who gives a small speech in her own defense that seems more defiant than penitent.

The end of the film brings very little in the way of closure for Lee herself, though an encounter with a much-changed Jack seems to bring a small ray of hope and life back to Lee Israel. There’s very little in the way of remorse for her illegal actions, but the experience does certainly seem to have changed Lee, maybe even a small nudge in the ‘better’ category. An interesting choice for the opening night film of an international film festival.

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‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Will Leave You Breathless

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“Mufasa: The Lion King” is a visually stunning addition to the beloved Lion King franchise, offering a fresh and emotionally resonant take on the origins of one of Disney’s most iconic characters. The film beautifully explores Mufasa’s journey, balancing heartfelt moments with touches of comedy that lighten the mood and make the story accessible to audiences of all ages. The animation is breathtaking, capturing the vibrant landscapes and lush environments of the Pride Lands, adding depth to Mufasa’s character and his relationships.

The storytelling is compelling, effectively pulling at the heartstrings while providing insights into Mufasa’s character before he becomes the legendary king. However, the setup for Scar’s betrayal feels somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the deeper motivation that could have enriched their complex brotherly relationship. This missed opportunity leaves a slight gap in understanding Scar’s actions, which could have elevated the dramatic stakes.

The musical score is impressive, featuring memorable songs that enhance the emotional impact of pivotal scenes. While there are several standout tracks, one song, in particular, resonates deeply and is sure to linger in viewers’ minds long after the credits roll. Overall, “Mufasa: The Lion King” is an amazing film and a worthy addition to the Lion King lore that manages to deliver both laughter and tears, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that fans will appreciate.

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Is ‘Kraven the Hunter’ a Total Letdown?

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“Kraven the Hunter,” directed by J.C. Chandor, aims to introduce a beloved Spider-Man villain to the big screen, but unfortunately, it falls short of expectations. The film suffers from noticeable issues, notably an overuse of ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), which detracts from the authenticity of the characters’ interactions and contributes to an uneven audio experience. This technical flaw is compounded by rough storytelling that feels disjointed and lacking in coherence, leaving viewers struggling to connect with the narrative.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers a commendable performance as Kraven, showcasing the character’s gritty nature and complex motivations. His portrayal has potential, and it’s evident that he could elevate the character far beyond what is presented with a stronger script and direction. However, the absence of Spider-Man, a central figure in Kraven’s lore, leaves a void that the film struggles to fill. Without this critical connection, the plot meanders and fails to create the tension or stakes that fans of the superhero genre crave.

Additionally, including Rhino as a villain feels like a missed opportunity; he is presented more as a gag character with limited screen time, undermining any sense of threat or depth. For the average moviegoer, “Kraven the Hunter” might entertain but ultimately feels like a mediocre viewing experience. Comic book fans, however, may find disappointment in this lackluster attempt to create a solo character film. Instead of an exhilarating dive into Kraven’s world, the film presents a watered-down version, leaving audiences wishing for a more cohesive vision that honors its comic book roots.

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A Brief Review and History of A Year Without a Santa Claus

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A Year Without a Santa Claus, the 1974 stop-motion holiday classic produced by Rankin/Bass, is a heartwarming and whimsical tale that has cemented its place in holiday traditions. Based on Phyllis McGinley’s 1956 book, the story revolves around a disheartened Santa Claus who, feeling unappreciated, decides to take a year off from his Christmas duties. It’s up to Mrs. Claus and a pair of well-meaning elves, Jingle and Jangle, to reignite the Christmas spirit and show Santa the world’s unwavering belief in him.

The movie is beloved for its unforgettable characters, especially the bickering Miser Brothers, Snow Miser and Heat Miser. Their catchy, vaudeville-style musical numbers, “Snow Miser Song” and “Heat Miser Song”, are so iconic they’ve become cultural touchstones, often parodied and celebrated decades later.

Directed by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, the film continues the duo’s tradition of stop-motion magic, blending heartfelt storytelling with quirky humor. The voice cast, featuring Mickey Rooney as Santa and Shirley Booth as Mrs. Claus, delivers standout performances. Booth’s warm narration was her final acting role before retirement, adding a layer of poignancy to the film.

Initially released on December 10, 1974, on ABC, the special didn’t immediately achieve the legendary status of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. However, it gained a dedicated following through annual holiday airings, nostalgic appeal, and its distinct charm.

The film’s themes of hope, unity, and rekindling joy remain timeless, making it a perennial favorite for audiences of all ages. Its blend of humor, catchy songs, and a touching message about believing in magic and goodwill ensures its enduring legacy during the holiday season.

For fans of holiday classics, A Year Without a Santa Claus is a must-watch that never fails to warm hearts and spread cheer.

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