by admin | Jul 15, 2025 | Articles, Moviephone Articles
Anson Mount as Pike in ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’, episode 1, season 3, streaming on Paramount+, 2025. Photo: Marni Grossman/Paramount+.
‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ Season 3 receives 8 out of 10 stars.
Arriving on Paramount+ on July 17th with the first two episodes (and eight more landing weekly), ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ launches its third season, once more starring Anson Mount (‘Non-Stop’) as Captain Christopher Pike, leading the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise on new adventures.
The cast also includes Ethan Peck (‘The Midnight Sky’), Christina Chong (‘Johnny English Reborn’), Melissa Navia (‘The Chosen’) and Rebecca Romijn (‘X-Men’).
Related Article: TV Review: ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ Season 2
Initial Thoughts
(L to R) Jess Bush as Chapel and Ethan Peck as Spock in season 3 , Episode 1 of ‘Strange New Worlds’ streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Marni Grossman/Paramount+.
‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ has established its own particular style. Largely episodic (with some linked episodes and nods to ongoing storylines here and there, organically incorporated) it has also become known as the ‘Trek’ show that really, boldly goes where no one has gone before.
By that, we mean the show has displayed incredible narrative flexibility; one minute it’s a traditional space adventure, thrusting the crew into a desperate situation against dangerous aliens, the next it’s a musical. And while other series in the long canon of this venerable franchise have had their fun –– take ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’s occasional visits to the holodeck or the machinations of the mischievous, all-powerful Q –– ‘Strange New Worlds’ doesn’t usually need much of an excuse to break out of the usual format.
The most surprising thing? It almost always works, so the biggest challenge facing the creative team in the third season is keeping that balance intact.
Script and Direction
(L to R) Christina Chong as Laían and Ethan Peck as Spock in season 3 , Episode 4 of ‘Strange New Worlds’ streaming on Paramount+. Photo Credit: Marni Grossman/Paramount+.
Fortunately, we’re pleased to report that Season 3 maintains the same level of playfulness and drama that audiences have come to enjoy about the show. Showrunners Akiva Goldsman and Henry Alonso Myers pick up the cliffhanger from last season’s finale ‘Hegemony’ with kidnapped crew members and the Enterprise under devastating attack from the devious, reptilian Gorn (a far cry from the man-in-rubber-suit combat as shown in the original ‘Star Trek’).
Kicking off with high drama, the initial episode offers all the twists and turns you might hope for, our valiant crew figuring out how to fight back against their violent enemies. And leaving at least one plot thread dangling through the season to be dealt with later. Again, this is handled in such smooth fashion that you’re happy to see them leaving some storylines to be dealt with down the line.
Babs Olusanmokun as Dr. MíBenga in season 3 , Episode 5 of ‘Strange New Worlds’ streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Marni Grossman/Paramount+.
Other episodes, such as ‘Shuttle to Kenfori’ offer welcome digs into the pasts and private lives of characters including Dr. M’Benga (Babs Olusanmokun), while ‘A Space Adventure Hour,’ featuring the first appearance (in ‘Trek lore, at least) of a technology familiar to ‘Next Generation’ fans, is a familiar piece of format tinkering layered with loving nods to the 1960s wellspring.
Stylistically, the show continues to look great, cinematic and impressive, and welcoming back the likes of ‘Trek’ veteran Jonathan Frakes behind the camera, resulting in a healthy combination of cinematography and attention to the cast’s easy chemistry.
Cast and Performances
(L to R) Dan Jeannotte as Sam Kirk, Carol Kane as Pelia and Martin Quinn as Scotty in season 3 , Episode 5 of ‘Strange New Worlds’ streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Marni Grossman/Paramount+.
The bonhomie between this crew can’t be understated –– they’re a team that has really found its gear, and even with huge stakes surrounding them, there’s space for a lightness of touch and real humor.
Anson Mount continues to be the (usually) calm and steady presence as a leading man and ship’s captain, commanding his crew in a way that Kirk, Picard or even Sisko and Janeway could never dream of trying, but always there in a pinch.
Rebecca Romijn’s Number One doesn’t get as much of a showcase in the episodes provided to the press, but she’s still a welcome, dryly funny presence.
Ethan Peck’s Spock does enjoy some focus, particularly in a funny, whimsical episode early in the season (‘Wedding Bell Blues’) confronting his evolving feelings for a crewmate and potentially finding a new connection.
Jess Bush is still on great form as Nurse Christine Chapel, bringing something more to the character than the original series had time for.
Melissa Navia as Erica Ortegas in season 3 , Episode 7 of ‘Strange New Worlds’ streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Marni Grossman/Paramount+.
If there’s a complaint to be made, it’s that there’s really enough from Carol Kane’s offbeat chief engineer Pelia, as she’s always entertaining when she’s on screen.
Around the main cast, there are some welcome new faces (including one guest star whose name and character we won’t spoil that has a deep cut link to an existing ‘Trek’ character) and recent recruit Martin Quinn as Lt. Montgomery “Scotty” Scott, who gives a performance that honors James Doohan while also existing as its own creation.
Final Thoughts
(L to R) Rebecca Romijn as Una and Anson Mount as Capt. Pike in season 3 , Episode 4 of ‘Strange New Worlds’ streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Marni Grossman/Paramount+.
Taking the “if it ain’t broke” approach has worked for ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.’
Assuming the remaining five episodes of the new season don’t fall off a cliff creatively speaking, this new season is a welcome addition to one of the best shows in modern ‘Star Trek’ history.
What’s the plot of ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ Season 3?
In Season 3, when we reconnect with the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise, still under the command of Captain Pike, they face the conclusion of season two’s harrowing encounter with the Gorn.
But new life and civilizations await, including a villain that will test our characters’ grit and resolve…
Who stars in ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ Season 3?
Anson Mount as Captain Christopher Pike
Ethan Peck as Spock
Christina Chong as La’an Noonien-Singh
Melissa Navia as Lt. Erica Ortegas
Rebecca Romijn as Una Chin-Riley
Jess Bush as Nurse Christine Chapel
Celia Rose Gooding as Nyota Uhura
Babs Olusanmokun as Dr. M’Benga
Dan Jeannotte as Lieutenant George Samuel ‘Sam’ Kirk
Carol Kane as Pelia
Martin Quinn as Lieutenant Montgomery Scott
Carol Kane as Pelia in season 3 , Episode 6 of ‘Strange New Worlds’ streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Marni Grossman/Paramount+
Other ‘Star Trek’ Movies and TV Series:
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by admin | Jul 11, 2025 | Articles, Moviephone Articles
Danielle Deadwyler in ’40 Acres’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
‘40 Acres’ receives 8.5 out of 10 stars.
Opening in theaters on July 2nd is ‘40 Acres’, which sees a family battling to survive in a post-apocalyptic Canada where roving bands of raiders threaten their precious farm land.
Directed by R.T. Thorne (‘Kung Fu’), the movie stars Danielle Deadwyler (‘The Harder They Fall’), Michael Greyeyes (‘1923’), Kataem O’Connor (‘Time Cut’) and Milcania Diaz-Rojas (‘Share’).
Related Article: Danielle Deadwyler and Jalyn Hall Talk Biographical Drama ‘Till’
Initial Thoughts
(L to R) Kataem O’Connor and Michael Greyeyes in ’40 Acres’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
If you were surprised to learn that the movie ‘40 Acres’ exists, you’re probably not alone –– it was seemingly pushed into theaters in limited release against the hugely-promoted ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ following a festival run.
Yet despite seemingly appearing with little fanfare, R.T. Thorne’s movie proves to be an unexpected treat; a tense, impressively shot and acted thriller that follows some familiar narrative paths but does so with imagination and emotion.
Script and Direction
R. T. Thorne, director of ’40 Acres’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Randall Thorne has mostly worked in TV on the likes of ‘Kung Fu’, ‘Utopia Falls’ and ‘The Porter’. He’s also been honing his cinematic skills via short films and now brings them fully to bear on ‘40 Acres’, which proves to be an impressive debut.
Writing the script with Glenn Taylor from a story he created alongside Lora Campbell, Thorne here wades into the sort of post-apocalyptic themes that have been well used by many titles in the past, not the least of which are ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘The Last of Us’ on TV.
What makes ‘40 Acres’ truly work is that Thorne and his co-writer didn’t skimp on building solid characters to populate this story. Hailey Freeman and her small but mighty brood are a winning combination of intensely focused survivors and loving family unit.
Danielle Deadwyler in ’40 Acres’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
The focus might be on the likes of Danielle Deadwyler’s Hailey and Kataem O’Connor’s Emanuel to drive the plot, the others aren’t simply ciphers.
And while the threats to the family are by their very nature more loosely sketched, there is enough about them and the wider community that the Freemans interact with to make the world come alive (even as people are dying all over the place).
Thorne’s directorial efforts here are well-used, as he’s made a stylish, effective thriller that doesn’t pull its punches (or shots) and posits a real threat to the Freemans from a new group of roving cannibals who are taking down farm after farm.
The action is also above par –– thanks to a committed cast and stunt team, the set-pieces feel narratively suitable rather than just thrown in for good measure.
Cast and Performances
(L to R) Danielle Deadwyler, Michael Greyeyes, Kataem O’Connor, Haile Amare and Jaeda LeBlanc in ’40 Acres’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Danielle Deadwyler has brought her particular brand of intensity to movies including ‘Carry On’, and perhaps even more fittingly, this year’s ‘The Woman in the Yard’ where she also had to defend a rural home from a lurking threat (albeit a more supernatural one in that film’s case).
Hailey Freeman is a great fit for her –– the former soldier who brings her military training to her entire family and who will do anything to defend them brings out the best in an actor who knows how to seethe and plan without ever seeming one-dimensional. The role also gives her the chance to showcase an emotional side when dealing with her partner and the kids.
Michael Greyeyes in ’40 Acres’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Michael Greyeyes matches her as Galen, the Native American fellow veteran who fell for Hailey and now shares the burden of keeping their family safe. He’s warm and witty when needed, but like his other half, a badass when the moment calls for it.
Kataem O’Connor’s Manny is perhaps the character who falls most into typical narrative traps as a young man pushing at the boundaries of restricted life, and who puts the group at risk because he wants to experience more. But even he’s a well-drawn character, with O’Connor giving him more than the usual sulky older teen mood.
Milcania Diaz-Rojas as Dawn, the unexpected new focus of Manny’s attention is also good, a tough yet sensitive fellow survivor who goes beyond the basic idea of a love interest where other movies stumble.
Final Thoughts
Danielle Deadwyler in ’40 Acres’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Given how well it turned out, ‘40 Acres’ deserved much more attention upon release, and will hopefully be something of a sleeper success, even if it finds its audience on streaming or elsewhere.
Those who enjoy a well-crafted story of man’s inhumanity to man when the chips are down (and the crops are dying) should certainly track this one down.
“Get off our land.”
Showtimes & Tickets
Hailey Freeman and her family are the last descendants of African American farmers who settled in rural Canada after the Civil War. In a famine-decimated near future,… Read the Plot
What’s the story of ‘40 Acres’?
After a plague eradicates all animal life, famine spreads across the globe leaving society at war and in ruins, but the Freemans are surviving — even thriving — on their ancestral farm so long as they dispatch the occasional raiding party. But what good is surviving the end of the world if it means snuffing out your own humanity?
Former soldier Hailey (Danielle Deadwyler) made that choice years ago, believing that isolation was the only way to protect her family. She and her partner Galen (Michael Greyeyes) fled the collapse along with their children, fenced them off from the world and trained them to fight.
But now Hailey’s eldest Emanuel (Kataem O’Connor) is a young man, and when he meets a young woman (Milcania Diaz-Rojas) in the forest beyond the fence, his need for human contact could place the whole family in jeopardy.
Who is in the cast of ‘40 Acres’?
’40 Acres’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
List of Movies and TV Shows Featuring Danielle Deadwyler:
Buy Tickets: ’40 Acres’ Movie ShowtimesBuy Danielle Deadwyler Movies and TV on Amazon
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by admin | Jul 9, 2025 | Articles, Moviephone Articles
Jared Harris in ‘Foundation,’ premiering July 11, 2025 on Apple TV+.
‘Foundation’ Season 3 receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.
Released on Apple TV+ on July 11th with its initial episode, ‘Foundation’ returns us to the multi-storyline tale of an Empire’s fall and a dedicated –– some might say obsessed –– scientist’s drive to steer the future.
With David S. Goyer (‘The Dark Knight’) as its showrunner, the series stars Jared Harris (‘Chernobyl’), Lee Pace (‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’), Lou Llobell (‘Voyagers’), Pilou Asbæk (‘Ghost in the Shell’) and Terrence Mann (‘Critters’).
Related Article: TV Review: ‘Foundation’ Season 2
Initial Thoughts
Lee Pace in ‘Foundation,’ premiering July 11, 2025 on Apple TV+.
We are long past the point where Isaac Asimov’s ‘Foundation’ stories are considered “unfilmable” –– the team behind this Apple series have been putting the lie to that since 2021.
Yet, the source material’s endlessly layered and complex themes have not always proven so easy to transition to screens, and the third season of the show continues that. There are storylines and characters who pop (the returning ones), while others struggle to make themselves stand out.
And some serious production issues (strikes, budgetary squabbles) have led to delays on this one –– but fortunately the quality is unaffected.
Script and Direction
Lou Llobell in ‘Foundation,’ premiering July 11, 2025 on Apple TV+.
While Goyer had been serving as both head writer and initial director for the first three episodes, he was swapped out –– on the directing front, at least, by Tim Southam, who has worked on the likes of ‘One Piece’ and ‘Lost in Space’. Partly that was to allow Goyer to focus on the writing side, and partly to curb budgetary overruns.
And it’s not hard to see why –– ‘Foundation’ remains a visually dazzling, clearly expensive series that manages to balance intimate, intense character moments with sweeping star-scapes and big location shoots.
But none of that is worth it if the scripts don’t work, and while the series sometimes loses itself in esoterica, it still delivers on the ‘Game of Thrones’-esque machinations of competing political, scientific, and particularly this season, criminal dynamics looking to dominate the galaxy.
There’s real scope and scale here, but the writers also don’t forget to narrow down to a more human level (even if the character is, say, a humanoid robot who can tear her own face open with a fingertip and seal it back up again like someone else shutting a Ziploc.
On the directing side, Southam and the other directors keeps up the style of the show, all grand architecture and vibrant costumes, and the effects remain impressive.
Cast and Performances
(L to R) Cassian Bilton, Lee Pace and Terrence Mann in ‘Foundation,’ premiering July 11, 2025 on Apple TV+.
As I mentioned above, the veteran cast are, for the most part, the characters who pop. Jared Harris continues to own every scene he’s in as “psychohistory” expert Hari Seldon, the deep thinker with a planet-sized ego whose math-based theories have predicted the end of empires and how civilizations can speed up the chaotic periods in between interstellar calm.
Harris is measured and fantastically smug in equal measure and despite his character’s seeming death last season, he’s not letting that stop him make pronouncements.
If there’s anyone who can match Harris for sheer presence it’s Lee Pace as Brother Day, one of the three clones who rules the Empire in endless succession, a new one decanted when one dies, and always three hanging around arguing (Pace’s scenes with co-stars Terrence Mann as Brother Dusk, the older variant and Brother Dawn, played by Cassian Bilton, are always good).
Pace, never knowingly fully clothed, is handed yet more solid material to play here, and while it’s less showy than other season, it deepens his character as his flaws really start to play on him. Plus a mano-a-mano duel late in the season we won’t spoil here is excellent.
Pilou Asbæk in ‘Foundation,’ premiering July 11, 2025 on Apple TV+.
Rounding out the standout veteran characters is The Mule, with ‘Game of Thrones’ veteran Pilou Asbæk taking over the role for this third season. A psychic warlord who can influence the brain of almost anyone he meets, he’s like a violent, vulgar crossbreed of Han Solo and Luke Skywalker, a man who believes he’s destined to rule worlds and isn’t above slaughtering people to achieve his aims.
Asbæk gives him just the right amount of sneer mixed with charisma, and The Mule is a highlight of the new season.
No less impactful but much humbler is Lou Lobell’s Gaal Dornick, one of Hari’s main followers who has long since evolved into her own person with her own mission. Lobell makes her believable and empathetic.
And Laura Birn, who plays synthetic lifeform Demerzel, an aide to Pace and co’s emperors who is much more –– and much more powerful/influential than anyone suspects continues to impress.
Of the new characters this year, there is good work from Alexander Siddig (back on the science fiction beat after his first big role in ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’ decades ago). While Siddig had a small role in Season 1 of the show, he’s back playing Dr. Ebling Mis here.
Finally, there are three other newcomers who pop –– Synnøve Karlsen and Cody Fern as Bayta and Toran Mallow, a spoiled rich couple on their honeymoon who get swept up into the Mule’s storyline and Tómas Lemarquis as a hypnotic musician who works with the criminal character.
Final Thoughts
Alexander Siddig in ‘Foundation,’ premiering July 11, 2025 on Apple TV+.
‘Foundation’ might seem impenetrable to some. But if you give it a chance to wrap its tendrils around your brain, you’ll appreciate the magic trick it is pulling off bringing one of the most complicated and thoughtful novel series to life.
“Chaos has a name: The Mule.”
What’s the plot of ‘Foundation’?
Set 152 years after the events of the second season, The Foundation has become increasingly established far beyond its humble beginnings while the Cleonic Dynasty’s Empire has dwindled.
As these galactic powers forge an uneasy alliance, a threat to the entire galaxy appears in the fearsome form of a war lord known as The Mule whose sights are set on ruling the universe by use of physical and military force, as well as mind control. It’s anyone’s guess who will win, who will lose, who will live and who will die.
Who stars in ‘Foundation’?
- Jared Harris as Hari Seldon
- Lee Pace as Brother Day
- Lou Llobell as Gaal Dornick
- Laura Birn as Demerzel
- Cassian Bilton as Brother Dawn
- Terrence Mann as Brother Dusk
- Pilou Asbæk as The Mule
- Cody Fern as Toran Mallow
- Synnove Karlsen as Bayta Mallow
- Alexander Siddig as Dr. Ebling Mis
Laura Birn in ‘Foundation,’ premiering July 11, 2025 on Apple TV+.
List of David S. Goyer Movies:
Buy David S. Goyer Movies On Amazon
by admin | Jul 8, 2025 | Articles, Moviephone Articles
David Corenswet as Superman in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.
‘Superman’ receives 9 out of 10 stars.
Coming to theaters on July 11th, ‘Superman’ is the first official installment in the DCU, helmed by Co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran. Written and directed by Gunn, the film stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent, also known as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luther.
Related Article: DC Studios Co-Chief James Gunn says a ‘Wonder Woman’ Movie is Planned
Initial Thoughts
David Corenswet as Superman in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.
There has been a lot of internet chatter about comic book movie fatigue, but DC Studios is hoping to fix that with reboot of their universe. The DCU is kicking off with one of the most well-known and beloved characters, Superman, which is a brilliant move.
That said, it is hard not to be concerned that perhaps James Gunn was wearing too many hats in the making of ‘Superman’. Despite the massive pressure it must have been, it is completely understandable why he would want to write and direct the first DCU film: ‘Superman’ is going to set the tone for the future and DC Studios needs it to succeed. It would be difficult to hand over the reins and trust someone else to do it.
Well, DC fans everywhere can finally breathe because ‘Superman’ is a fantastic movie, boasting incredible lead performances, epic action sequences, and a story that will leave audiences feeling all the feels. Plus, stick around for that end-credit scene.
Script and Direction
(L to R) Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, David Corenswet as Superman and Director James Gunn in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
One of the main reasons that ‘Superman’ works so well is the reason Tom Holland’s ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ did: It is not an origin story. Everyone knows how Superman came to Earth, and while this is, of course, addressed in the film, it is not the main focus. We hear about Kal-El’s parents and how they sent him away from a dying planet, and yes, they do have a key involvement in the plot, but we are not forced to sit through another coming of age story abotu a young Clark Kent.
When ‘Superman’ starts, Kent has already been publicly saving the world as Superman for three years. This is all established via a few words on the screen at the very beginning of the movie. He has been dating Lois Lane, who knows his true identity, for three months. The best part is, it doesn’t feel like we are being dropped into the middle of a story. Everything needed to establish the world and the characters are there, and we can now get into the good stuff, Superman’s struggle with simply wanting to do the right thing.
(L to R) Director James Gunn GUNN and David Corenswet on the set of DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
James Gunn knows how to handle an ensemble cast. He has proven this time and time again. He is a brilliant writer, which is evident in the script. The way the characters banter with one another helps to make us feel as if we are in an already established world. They know each other, they have history, all of which adds a believability to the story being told.
The story itself is relatable and strangely relevant in today’s climate. It is slightly political, but never polarizing, as it mostly debates if Superman has the right to protect the people of Earth and dives into what his motives are. Lex Luther hates him and wants to take him down by whatever means necessary. While they meet for the first time in the film, thanks to the writing, this is another believable relationship.
The set pieces are massive and detailed, which makes sense given the reported $225 million budget. These, coupled with James Gunn’s knowledge of DC Comics and the world his movie is in, makes for some truly unforgettable moments.
Cast and Performances
(L to R) Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and David Corenswet as Superman in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
David Corenswet was born to play Superman, there is no doubt about that. He does such a great job of capturing the struggle and the frustration when he needs to, but also the humanity and strength as well. This version of Clark Kent is one of the best and is sure to go down in history as a fantastic casting choice.
At the same time, Rachel Brosnahan brings something to Lois Lane that is real, raw, and very likable. She is a tough cookie, and a journalist before anything else, but is her relationship with Clark that will warm the hearts of viewers. Chemistry practically oozes through the screen whenever Lois and Clark are together, whether they are arguing or having deep, meaningful conversations. It has been a long time since two actors have brought something like this to the big screen and it is truly a joy to watch.
Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.
It should come as no surprise that Nicholas Hoult nails his role as Lex Luther. he does so much of his acting with his eyes, especially in the third act. This character is so consumed with hatred and envy that his blood is practically boiling at all times. Even during the scenes where Lex Luther has the upper hand, Hoult allows that to come through in his performance.
One of Superman’s most prominent villains, it makes sense that Lex is the featured bad guy in the first DCU film. Nicholas Hoult and David Corenswet are clearly having a lot of fun together in this movie, but not in a goofy or comedic way. When the two come face-to-face, it is impossible not to get chills.
(L to R) Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl and Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.
As for the Justice Gang, as they call themselves, Nathan Fillion (Guy Gardener), Isabela Mercad (Hawkgirl), and Edi Gathegi (Mister Terrific), they bring just the right amount of comedic relief needed to keep the story fun. Mister Terrific is the clear standout of the group, so much so that fans will be begging for him to get a solo movie after ‘Superman’.
Yes, there are a lot of characters in ‘Superman’, but they all have a role to play in the story and they all do a wonderful job at it. No one feels shoehorned in or like they do not belong. This an already established world with established characters that we are watching, and each person makes sense to be there.
Mid-Credit and End-Credit Scenes
(L to R) David Corenswet and Krypto in ‘Superman.’ Photo: James Gunn’s Instagram account.
‘Superman’ features a quick mid-credit scene and an end-credit scene. While neither of these sets up for the future of the DCU, or offers anything extremely important, they are worth sticking around for. The mid-credit scene is brief, but sweet. Definitely an “awww” moment. As for the end-credit sequence, it is absolutely hilarious.
Final Thoughts
(L to R) Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Superman’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.
‘Superman’ gives fans exactly what they are looking for in the first DCU movie. There are incredible action sequences that showcase just how powerful this hero is. At the same time, we get a glimpse into his human side, realizing how similar he is to us despite technically being an alien.
The acting is top-notch with every actor knowing exactly what their character brings to the story. James Gunn proves, once again, that he knows how to write and direct an ensemble cast and that he knows how to adapt a comic book story for the screen.
Krpto may not be the best boy, but he is a fun addition to ‘Superman’. He is not overly silly and he is important to the story being told. While the mid-credit and end-credit scenes are just for fun, the end of the movie does offer a glimpse into what is coming next. Superman fans, get ready to kick your feet and giggle as you fall in love with this character all over again.
“Look up.”
Showtimes & Tickets
Superman, a journalist in Metropolis, embarks on a journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent. Read the Plot
What is the plot of ‘Superman’?
In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.
Who is in the cast of ‘Superman’?
David Corenswet as Superman in James Gunn’s ‘Superman’. Photo: James Gunn’s Instagram.
List of Movies and TV Shows Featuring Superman:
Buy Tickets: ‘Superman’ Movie ShowtimesBuy Superman Movies On Amazon
by admin | Jul 7, 2025 | Articles, Moviephone Articles
Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Greg Gayne/Prime Video.
‘Ballard’ receives 5.5 out of 10 Stars.
Premiering on Prime Video July 9th is the new cop show ‘Ballard’, which is based on a character created by author Michael Connolly and is set in the same universe as ‘Bosch’ and ‘Bosch: Legacy’.
Maggie Q (‘The Protégé’) stars as LA detective Renée Ballard, along with John Carroll Lynch (‘The Founder’), Courtney Taylor (‘Abbott Elementary’), Michael Mosley (‘Ozark’), Rebecca Field (‘A Star Is Born’), and Victoria Moroles (‘Teen Wolf’).
Related Article: Titus Welliver Talks ‘Bosch: Legacy’ Season 3 and Ending the Series
Initial Thoughts
(L to R) Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) and Courtney Taylor (Zamira Parker) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Greg Gayne/Prime Video.
Based on a character created by author Michael Connolly and technically a spinoff of ‘Bosch: Legacy’, ‘Ballard’ is an adequate cop series but lacks the style and magic of its predecessor. While the title character was introduced in the final episode of ‘Bosch: Legacy’, the new series has almost nothing in common with the former other than a few mentions of past characters and an occasional appearance from Titus Welliver and other ‘Bosch’ actors.
It’s more akin to ‘The Closer’, ‘Cold Case’ or ABC’s ‘Highly Potential’ with Kaitlin Olson. Maggie Q does the best she can with the role but lacks the charisma or gravitas to truly lead the series. John Carroll Lynch and the supporting cast also do their best to fill in the gaps, but it’s not enough to pick up the pace and tone, which otherwise falls flat. The series does get better as it goes on, gaining momentum as the audience gets to know the cast of characters and their backstories, but it never exceeds the level of just your generic cop series.
Story and Direction
Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Greg Gayne/Prime Video.
The series begins by reintroducing us to Los Angeles detective Renée Ballard (Maggie Q), who has recently gone through an internal affairs investigation after reporting misconduct by one of her colleagues and has now been assigned to lead her own cold case department, which she sees as a demotion. Ballard’s first case is to solve the murder of councilman Jake Pearlman’s (Noah Bean) sister, which leads to discovering other victims.
Ballard puts together a new team of her own including her former partner, retired detective Thomas Laffont (John Carroll Lynch), volunteer and possible psychic Colleen Hatteras (Rebecca Field), intern Martina Castro (Victoria Moroles), reserve policeman and Pearlman’s friend Ted Rawls (Michael Mosley), and former detective Samira Parker (Courtney Taylor), who was also forced out of the department because of accusing her co-workers of misconduct.
In addition to investigating the councilman’s sister’s murder, Ballard and her team take on several other high-profile cold cases, eventually leading to an investigation into a team of crooked cops, that is directly connected to both Ballard and Parker’s pasts. While carefully investigating the dirty police officers, Ballard confides in her old friend Harry Bosch (Titus Welliver) for advice, as he is a former LA detective turned private investigator who has had his own troubles in the past navigating the politics of the Los Angeles police department.
(L to R) Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) and Michael Mosley (Ted Rawls) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Patrick Wymore/Prime Video.
I know that ‘Ballard’ is technically a spinoff of ‘Bosch: Legacy’, but the series tries to have it cake and eat it too by completely stripping the tone and style of its predecessor and yet still shoehorning in ‘Bosch’ characters as if to say, “Hey, remember this is still ‘Bosch’!” And it’s not just the great Titus Welliver who returns with almost nothing to do, but more on that in a moment.
The series jumps right in as if we are supposed to already care about these characters, with no backstory explaining how they got here. To be fair, the backstories unfold as the series progresses, and that’s when you begin to care about these characters and the team they have created, but its several episodes in before that happens, and I’m afraid the casual watcher won’t give the series that long to get going.
‘Ballard’ is also missing the style and substance of ‘Bosch’ and ‘Bosch: Legacy’, which is what made the show so compelling. Those series had a noir feeling that ‘Ballard’ just can’t replicate. Ballard lives on the west side of LA, by the beach, which is in stark contrast to the Downtown LA/Hollywood vibe of the original series and fails to create an intriguing atmosphere. While the series builds some momentum as the episodes progress, it’s not enough to transcend the standard cop show syndrome the series is stuck in.
With the character of Renée Ballard only introduced in the final episode of season 3 of ‘Bosch: Legacy’, it’s not like even ‘Bosch’ fans have a long history with her and the series does nothing in the first few episodes to show us why we should care about her or the show. Ballard’s catch phrase is “The past is always present”, which holds a different meaning through the prism of solving cold cases, but rings hollow in the context of the series and just seems like a substitute for Bosch’s famous motto, “Everybody counts, or nobody counts.”
Cast and Performances
(L to R) John Carroll Lynch (Thomas Laffont) and Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Tyler Golden/Prime Video.
Maggie Q is a capable actress and has been quite good in action driven movies like ‘Mission: Impossible III,’ ‘Live Free or Die Hard’ and ‘The Protégé’ but lacks the charismas or gravitas to lead a series like this in the same way Titus Welliver did with the ‘Bosch’ franchise. Welliver became synonymous with the character, and it was hard to know the difference between Bosch and the actor playing him. Welliver also had a magnetic quality on screen, you couldn’t take your eyes off him, and Q does not possess the same characteristics as Ballard.
With popular series like ‘Nikita’ and ‘Designated Survivor’ under her belt, Q is more than qualified to lead her own series, but perhaps this was not the best marriage of actor and character, as she has difficulty being believable in the role. What should be a showcase for another complex and likable Michael Connolly character instead seems like a run-of-the-mill cop you would find on any network police procedural.
The supporting cast does their best including acclaimed actor John Carroll Lynch (‘Zodiac’ and ‘The Founder’), who plays Ballard’s former partner Thomas Laffont, who has come out of retirement to back up Renée. As their past together and the reasons why Laffont retired come to the surface, there is more for Lynch to work with, but his character is a standout from the very beginning of the season.
(L to R) Courtney Taylor (Zamira Parker) and Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Greg Gayne/Prime Video.
Courtney Taylor’s Samira Parker has a big redemption arc in the first season and the actress is solid in the role. Having her past connect with Ballard’s was smart, if not also predictable, but works for the conspiracy plot and bringing Parker and Ballard closer together as friends.
Rounding out the cast are Michael Mosley, whose Ted Rawls is annoying at first but grows on you as time goes on, Victoria Moroles’ Martina, who’s not given much to do until the final episodes, and Rebecca Field’s possibly psychic Colleen, who is bubbly and funny, and is a standout the entire season.
Connections to ‘Bosch’
(L to R) Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) and Titus Welliver (Bosch) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Tyler Golden/Prime Video.
While the series seems completely devoid of any connections or even a similar tone to ‘Bosch’ in the opening episodes, several characters, both big and small, make their return in ‘Ballard’. The most obvious is Titus Welliver as Harry Bosch. While Welliver’s appearance is always welcome, Harry seems out of place in ‘Ballard’, regulated to basically an advisory character.
Keep in mind, when ‘Ballard’ was first announced, it was assumed that ‘Bosch: Legacy’ would get a fourth season after she was introduced in season three, but after ‘Ballard’ got picked up, the decision was made to cancel the show. Unfortunately, Ballard was not introduced early in ‘Bosch: Legacy’s final season and given time to build, instead she was injected into the final episode, which always felt more like a backdoor pilot.
Let’s get this out of the way: ‘Bosch: Legacy’ never should have been canceled! Sadly, it was and while I want nothing more than to see Titus Welliver on screen as Harry Bosch once again, this was not the right way to do it. Major kudos to Welliver for being a class act and donating his time to appear on the new series, but why the showrunners would waste his appearance like this is beyond me. If you are going to bring Bosch back, make him part of the story. Give him some actions scenes and something to recite other than exposition, please!
Jamie Hector on Prime Video’s ‘Bosch.’ Credit: Hopper Stone. Copyright: Amazon Studios.
Hardcore ‘Bosch’ fans will be over-the-moon to know that Jamie Hector returns as Detective Jerry Edgar, but again, don’t get too excited. His appearances are nothing more than cameos, and a way of bridging the gap between the two series and making ‘Ballard’ feel more like it is part of the ‘Bosch’ world. But again, these attempts feel hollow and not only don’t work to connect it to the overall ‘Bosch’ universe but keeps it from standing apart as its own distinct series.
It’s also particularly disappointing as ‘Bosch’ fans were really hoping for J. Edgar to reunite with Harry on screen before the end of ‘Legacy’, which didn’t happen. So, seeing him here seems like another wasted moment. Speaking of wasted moments, Stephen Chang who was a series regular on ‘Legacy’ for three seasons as Mo Bassi returns for one scene where he has no dialogue and only walks out of a house. I appreciate the continuity, but why make Chang return for that?
Several other recognizable faces from the two previous series return, including Troy Evans as Barrel and Mimi Rogers as Honey “Money” Chandler. Just like Welliver and Hector’s returns, they don’t amount to much other than connecting ‘Ballard’ to the greater ‘Bosch’ universe. But since the show goes so far out of its way to establish that this show is not ‘Bosch’, it confuses me as to why they even bothered with the cameos. In all other ways, style, substance, tone, music, there are no connections to the previous shows, so these cameo appearances feel a bit off. But if you are going to bring back these excellent actors in the future, please give them more to do.
Final Thoughts
(L to R) Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) and Courtney Taylor (Zamira Parker) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Adam Rose/Prime Video.
While ‘Ballard’ is a fine cop show, it just can’t hold a candle to the previous two ‘Bosch’ series, which is probably an unfair comparison. But since ‘Ballard’ tries so hard to both be part of the ‘Bosch’ universe and something completely new, it fails on both counts. Maggie Q lacks the gravitas required for the role and the series fails to create any real urgency to watch. In the end, ‘Ballard’ is just another cop show and does not live up to the legacy of ‘Bosch’.
“She’s the last chance for lost hopes.”
Detective Renée Ballard plunges into a web of murder and corruption as she hunts a ruthless serial killer and uncovers a sinister police conspiracy that threatens… Read the Plot
What is the plot of ‘Ballard’?
Ballard continues to bring Michael Connelly’s bestselling novels to life, following Detective Renée Ballard (Maggie Q) as she leads the LAPD’s new and underfunded cold case division, tackling the city’s most challenging long-forgotten crimes with empathy and relentless determination. As she peels back layers of crimes spanning decades, including a serial killer’s string of murders and a murdered John Doe, she soon uncovers a dangerous conspiracy within the LAPD. With the help of her volunteer team and retired detective Harry Bosch (Titus Welliver), Detective Ballard navigates personal trauma, professional challenges, and life-threatening dangers to expose the truth.
Who is in the cast of ‘Ballard’?
- Maggie Q as Renée Ballard
- John Carroll Lynch as Thomas Laffont
- Courtney Taylor as Samina Parker
- Michael Mosley as Ted Rawls
- Rebecca Field as Colleen Hatteras
- Victoria Moroles as Martina Castro
- Noah Bean as Jake Pearlman
- Hector Hugo as Captain Berchem
- Ricardo Chavira as Detective Robert Olivas
- Titus Welliver as Harry Bosch
(L to R) Courtney Taylor (Zamira Parker) and Maggie Q (Renée Ballard) in ‘Ballard’. Photo: Tyler Golden/Prime Video.
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by admin | Jul 3, 2025 | Articles, Moviephone Articles
Tom Sturridge as Dream in episode 203 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Netflix © 2025.
‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 1 receives 7 out of 10 stars.
Released on Netflix on July 3rd, ‘The Sandman’ returns with the first batch of episodes from its second season, focusing once again on the machinations of stoic, powerful mythological figure Dream (Tom Sturridge, ‘On the Road’).
Overseen by showrunner and executive producer Allan Heinberg (‘Wonder Woman’) the cast for the new season also includes Kirby (‘The Good Place’), Mason Alexander Park (‘National Anthem’), Esmé Creed-Miles (‘Hanna’) and Adrian Lester (‘Mary, Queen of Scots’).
Related Article: Steve Coogan, Douglas Booth and More Added to ‘The Sandman’ Season 2
Initial Thoughts
Kirby as Death in episode 205 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
It is almost impossible to discuss this new season of ‘The Sandman’ without addressing the Neil Gaiman elephant in the room. The original creator and writer of the classic graphic novel series from where the Netflix show draws its source material is facing some serious misconduct allegations, and that goes some way to explain why his presence has been all but vanished in the promotion for the second season.
All of which is to say that we’re in a case of separating the art from the artist, and not dismissing the hard work that the creative team, crew and cast have put into the new show. ‘Sandman’ is a show that fans have been eagerly awaiting, and while it’s somewhat frustrating that Netflix has opted to dole it out in chunks (much as with ‘Stranger Things’ or ‘Cobra Kai’), this first “Volume” represents a satisfying story.
Script and Direction
Mason Alexander Park as Desire in episode 205 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
The writers’ room, overseen by showrunner Allan Heinberg, is here adapting more of the beloved ‘Sandman’ stories, albeit with their own twist.
We get to meet more members of the Endless family, including Destiny and Destruction (AKA “The Prodigal”) who all have their own ways of dealing with being anthropomorphic representations of abstract ideas.
There is also pleasure to be found in the choices of stories this time around –– the likes of Thor, Loki and other Norse gods appear, as do Oberon and Titania, summoned to watch a production of the Shakespeare play in which they feature.
This season features even more of a narrative drive than the first, tying together the various narratives in interesting, thoughtful fashion.
Director Jamie Childs handled three episodes of Season 1 and returns to take over all of the second, bringing the same stylish visions to life.
While there are moments that the effects don’t always quite live up to the imagination of the team, the show in general is still impressive.
Cast and Performances
Tom Sturridge as Dream in episode 205 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Netflix © 2025.
Tom Sturridge remains the focal point of the show even the story sometimes wanders off without him. His Dream is a stoic, haunted character, and while he’s not always the most charismatic (by design), he’s still compelling.
Around him, the other members of the Endless “family” have their own appeal, especially Mason Alexander Park as the preening, selfish Desire and Esmé Creed-Miles as the whimsical, sometimes psychotic Delirium.
When the Endless are assembled, it’s always more entertaining watching their familiar dynamic –– my only problem? Needed more Death, since Kirby is the best of the bunch (and we’re promised an adaptation of one of the character’s best storylines, ‘Death: The High Cost of Living’ as a standalone episode later in the season).
Elsewhere, new characters that make an impact include Dream’s son, Orpheus (Ruairi O’Connor), who plays an important part later in the season, and Ann Skelly, who impresses as Nuala, a member of Oberon and Titania’s royal court, who ends up making a big change in her life.
Ann Skelly as Nuala in episode 203 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
There is also a welcome return for some of the supporting characters from Season 1, including Merv Pumpkinhead (voiced by Mark Hamill), Matthew the Raven (with the vocal tones of Patton Oswalt), and Vivienne Acheampong as Lucienne, the librarian who serves as Dream’s main assistant. Plus Hob Gadling, granted immortality, and who meets Dream every hundred years or so, has a solid scene early in the new season, with Ferdinand Kingsley bringing him to cocky, funny life.
Final Thoughts
Barry Sloane as Destruction in episode 206 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
Since this and Volume 2 (due on July 24th) represent the last ‘Sandman’ output we’ll be seeing for the foreseeable future, it’s at least reassuring that these are effective, well-crafted takes on the stories.
Is it a perfect version? No, but it has enough verve and magic about to cast a spell.
What’s the plot of ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 1?
After a fateful reunion with his family, Dream of the Endless (Tom Sturridge) must face one impossible decision after another as he attempts to save himself, his kingdom, and the waking world from the epic fallout of his past misdeeds.
To make amends, Dream must confront longtime friends and foes, gods, monsters, and mortals. But the path to forgiveness is full of unexpected twists and turns, and true absolution may cost Dream everything.
Who stars in ‘The Sandman’ Season 2 Volume 1?
Jenna Coleman as Lady Johanna in episode 206 of ‘The Sandman.’ Photo: Ed Miller/Netflix © 2025.
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