The master of monsters makes his masterpiece.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

Monstrous, tragic and macabre, Frankenstein is the culmination of Guillermo del Toro’s greatest strengths. A grand yet intricate, romantic gothic horror that beats with a heart of science and sorrow. Del Toro’s films have consistently explored the monstrous as a reflection of the human condition. From Pan’s Labyrinth to The Shape of Water to Nightmare Alley, he’s been telling us that monsters aren’t the problem. Rather, it’s the people who can’t see their own monstrosity who are the scariest beast. Frankenstein takes that idea to its ultimate conclusion. This long-gestating project resurrects Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel with a tenderness and terror that few filmmakers could ever conjure. Del Toro’s affection for Shelley’s novel has been well-documented, and he’s spent decades circling this material. The result is a spectacle of craftsmanship and a lament of creation, an unflinching portrait of the beauty and brutality of being human.

In Frankenstein, visionary scientist Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac) defies death itself, stitching together life from the remnants of the grave. Ostracised by the medical community, his experiments attract the attention and benefaction of wealthy Henrich Harlander (Christoph Waltz), the uncle of his brother William’s (Felix Kammerer) bride-to-be, Elizabeth (Mia Goth). When Victor’s creation (Jacob Elordi) ultimately awakens, a towering, childlike being of immense strength and fragile soul emerges. Immediately, the creator and creature are intertwined in a tragic dance of love, fear, and rejection. Spanning from frozen wastelands to candlelit manors, del Toro restores Mary Shelley’s original vision to celluloid, capturing the gothic odyssey of creator and consequence in a tale of a man who sought to be God, and a monster who only longed to be human. And gone are the latter additions to the Monster’s mythos. You won’t find any Igor the hunchback, protruding neck bolts, or pitchfork-wielding villagers. This is a fully faithful adaptation from del Toro. 

Oscar Isaac embodies Victor Frankenstein with chilling precision: a man torn between enlightenment and ego, cruelty and control. His performance balances surgical exactitude with moral decay as a scientist who mistakes mastery for mercy. Opposite him, Jacob Elordi delivers a career-defining performance as the creature. Towering, tragic, and terrifyingly tender, Elordi captures the creature’s impossible paradox: a being both innocent and abominable, desperate for love yet destined for loneliness. The practical makeup effects are award-worthy, but behind the grotesque flesh, Elordi’s human eyes stare through, bringing tremendous depth and sorrow. 

Their story unfolds through del Toro’s unmistakable visual language and stunning attention to production design and detail. Stunning cathedral-like laboratories, mist-soaked graveyards, and snowbound wildernesses are all rendered with painterly beauty. Alexandre Desplat’s haunting score lingers like a requiem for the living and the lost. 

Some may find the film too brutal, too sentimental, or too indulgent in its Gothic flourishes. But others will see it as a masterpiece of melancholy. A film as grand in scale as it is intimate in soul. Del Toro has crafted not only a work of cinematic brilliance but a meditation on what it means to be made, to suffer, to love, and to be human.

Reel Dialogue: Made In Whose Image?

At its heart, Frankenstein is a story about creation and what happens when humans reach for the divine and try to play God. Del Toro doesn’t shy away from that theological theme. In fact, he leans into it. Shelley’s novel was subtitled The Modern Prometheus for a reason: it’s a warning against human pride, but also an aching reflection on a creation abandoned by its Maker. In one of the film’s quietest, most devastating moments, the creature asks his creator, “Why did you make me?” It’s a question that echoes across Scripture and the human heart. We’re reminded of Job crying out from the ash heap, “Your hands shaped me and made me. Will you now turn and destroy me?” (Job 10:8). The film doesn’t give an answer; it simply leaves us to sit with that ache, the cry of a soul who has longed for the love of their Maker. 

The true horror here isn’t stitched flesh or laboratory lightning. It’s rejection. It’s cruelty. It’s the failure to love. In this way, del Toro’s Frankenstein is less about science gone wrong and more about grace gone missing. The Creature, for all his violence, still feels more human than his creator. And perhaps that’s the point. We, too, are creatures: fragile, flawed, fashioned from dust. But unlike Victor Frankenstein, our Creator does not abandon us. Where Frankenstein’s Creature is rejected by his maker, the Gospel tells us of a Creator who steps into creation Himself – taking on flesh, bearing our scars, and inviting us into His eternal home. 

For you created my inmost being;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

your works are wonderful,

I know that full well.”

— Psalm 139:13–14 (NIV)

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

Feature image: Supplied (Movie Publicity Image Used With Permission)

As the years continue, some films get left behind in the memories of those who loved them.

They can get buried amongst the plethora of options on the big and small screen despite being beloved by many during their release. Yet, some manage to place a flag in time and remain as classics that continue to receive recognition and repeat viewings for decades. Roman Holiday is one of those rare gems that has remained relevant and still makes us all repeatedly fall in love with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. As this cinematic classic celebrates its 70th anniversary, one might wonder if it is still worth rediscovering after all these years.

For those who need a reminder or have an aversion to black-and-white films, the premise of this story of self-discovery and unexpected romance dates back to an influencer era before the term existed. It is hard to imagine that this was Audrey Hepburn’s first film. Still, it is impossible to think of anyone else in the role of Crown princess Ann as she embarks on a diplomatic tour of Europe. As she enters the beautiful city of Rome, the young royal finally buckles under the pressure of the tightly held-schedule. Despite being given sleep aids to help her sleep, Ann breaks free of the castle gates where she is briefly residing and walks the lively and invigorating streets of the Italian city.

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After the medications take over, she is found on a park bench by Joe Bradley, played by Gregory Peck, an expatriate writer for the American News Service. Initially, this is more of a problem since he does not recognise the princess until the following morning. Once he realises what story has fallen into his lap, the reporter decides to help the young woman explore the city and discover what she has been missing within her secluded lifestyle. All the while photographing and documenting her adventure with the hope of profiting from the experience and gaining promotion within the news agency.

For those who are just discovering this magical story that reminds us of the beauty of great filmmaking and writing, Roman Holiday was one of the most celebrated films of the 1950s. Directed by one of the greatest directors of all time and multiple Academy Award winners, William Wyler (Ben-Hur), this should make anyone take notice. Yet, the pedigree of this movie does not stop there, as it was written by Dalton Trumbo, one of the era’s most celebrated and infamous screenwriters. He would eventually get recognition for his skills after the dark period of McCarthyism ended.

“Audrey Hepburn earned the Academy Award for best actress that year and inspired countless women worldwide with her wardrobe and hairstyle.”

Other awards for the film went to Edith Head, who was not only one of the most prolific and awarded costume designers in Hollywood history but would become the inspiration for Edna Mode, in Pixar’s The Incredibles. Still, with all of the Hollywood royalty involved with this project, the film was owned by and launched the career of one of cinema’s most recognisable faces, Audrey Hepburn. She earned the Academy Award for best actress that year and inspired countless women worldwide with her wardrobe and hairstyle.

The history behind this film has received volumes of books and articles over the decades. Yet, none of that makes any difference if modern audiences fail to connect with the characters. Admittedly, things have changed within our culture over the past 70 years, except this film shows that humanity still manages to play from the same playbook. Thankfully there were no mobile phones to ruin this storyline, and this unexpected tale of a tenuous relationship between influencers and the press was allowed without crowds getting out their devices. Yes, the age difference between Peck and Hepburn does seem problematic initially, but the screenplay keeps the innocence needed to make this believable and genuine until the concluding moments.

Not all films manage to age well as the years progress, and many fall off of the watchlists for many viewers. Roman Holiday is one of those rare exceptions as it continues to capture the hearts of audiences each year. Some could credit this to brilliant filmmaking and writing or even the beauty of the Italian city. In contrast, many might credit the timeless nature of Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck’s chemistry. This debate will continue into the future, but there is something else to embrace about this production. Every component mentioned above played into the longevity of its appeal and the perfect timing of the film coming out at the ideal time in world history to provide the hope many were looking for in a post-war era.

William Wyler and Dalton Trumbo’s creation still manages to stand on its own and draw the world’s romantics into the magnificent world of the human heart. For all who have never seen this classic, the time is now for you to turn off your devices, hold those you love close, and enjoy this beautiful story of love and discovery.

REEL DIALOGUE: What is the price of fame?

Roman Holiday was a film about the impact and cost of fame on the personal lives of those caught in the spotlight. There are many films and books written on the rise and fall of public figures from many fields. It allows audiences to see the human experiences of these individuals who spend various lengths of time in the public eye. The interest from the general populace can stem from placing these individuals on a pedestal throughout their careers, but then seeing the human side of life after fame.

To a lesser degree, we all experience this as we progress through life. Success can come from sport, academics, business, or other endeavours, but how do we deal with the lower points in life?

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. James 4:10

The issue comes down to where we place our worth and identity. Suppose you put your trust in the accolades of others and in achieving goals. In that case, this will lead to eventual disappointment and depression. As seen throughout the Bible and in the words of James, the solution is to place your trust in the Lord for your worth. If all you do is done for the Lord’s honor, regardless of how mankind responds to it, God will encourage you. Even though the good and bad times will come, the Lord’s support will be the constant that can sustain you.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

Feature image: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (OUT OF 5 STARS)

One joy of film festivals can be discovering cinematic gems that may not have received as much attention in a wider release. The Ballad of Wallis Island is an unassuming venture into the human experience that beautifully weaves together music, love, grief, and loneliness for a magical island adventure unlike any in recent memory.

Director James Griffiths (Cuban Fury) gives new life to the 2007 short film The One and Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island, which starred Tim Key and Tom Basden. The comedians embody their former roles as two men brought together by folk music and superfans. Key (Mickey 17) plays eccentric widow Charles Heath, who lives an isolated life on an island off the coast of Wales. As a devotee of the folk duo McGwyer Mortimer, he hires the pair to the island for an exclusive performance even though they had not sung together in a decade and had parted on bad terms. Herb (Basden) has been trying to salvage his solo career. After their break, Nell Mortimer (Carey Mulligan) married an American and no longer sings for anyone. As things unfold on the remote island, the trio discover something they had lost and hope to rediscover again.

In the opening moments of this comedic misadventure, there were moments where the storyline could have gone down a horrific path reminiscent of Misery. Until the endearing side of Tim Key’s character begins to come out of his awkward shell and captures everyone’s heart. The comedy is subtly British and manages to distract from the emotional soft centre of this heart-warming tale of grief and regret. Tom Basden and Carey Mulligan complement Key’s central performance, and Sian Clifford’s scene-stealing take on the local shopkeeper. This ensemble’s rare weakness is the minimal time Mulligan is on screen. After she and Basden begin singing together, you will want more time with her character, which will help you understand why Key’s character paid to have them come. 

The Ballad of Wallis Island is one of those films that needs to be found by audiences to sit back and let this beautiful story unfold. It offers the comedy, emotion and character depth required for all those yearning for an uplifting night at the cinema.

Reel Dialogue: Grieving In Different Ways and For Different Things

This magical film manages to tap into the lonely essence of grief and how everyone deals with loss differently. Regret, tears, anger, confusion are some of the emotions that come along during this time in the lives of those who lose a loved one or after the loss of their passions. In amongst the comedic and lighter moments of this film, the audience manages to show how everyone needs time to go down to the depths of despair and even more time to rise to see what they need in life.

One thing that can be considered about the message of the Bible is that God is not only there for those who grieve but that he can empathise with them, too. His Son died a horrific death, and it allows people to know that they can come to a God who knows how they feel during this low in their lives.

For those struggling with the dark shadow of grief, the God of the Bible provides the guiding light out of the darkness. We may seek comfort in the temporary things of this life, but they eventually lose their power to soothe the soul. Knowing that the Lord is always there for and with us is good.

He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. Psalm 18:28

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

….An Artful True-To-Life Journey that will Inspire

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

The art world is one of the most emotive and mysterious atmospheres as one begins to dig into the history of the works that are designated as masterpieces. Legend, intrigue, and family secrets encompass this fascinating business that has had collectors at the centre of some of the greatest backroom deals of the past. The Stolen Painting is based on real-world events that involved familial events leading up to World War II, which was a mystery that was eventually solved in the Alsatian city of Mulhouse decades later.

André Masson (Alex Lutz) has made a name in this snobbish realm of artwork as an art appraiser at prestigious, high-end auction house Scottie’s. Despite being despised by most who come in contact with his work, the successful businessman is respected by his employers and clients for his abilities. One day, he receives a letter from a lawyer stating that her client has discovered a painting by Egon Schiele. Despite their professional scepticism, André and his ex-partner, Bettina (Léa Drucker), head to the home of a young factory worker who discovered the painting in his house. Once they see the painting, the art dealers do all they can to reintroduce the world to this lost treasure. 

Celebrated writer/director Pascal Bonitzer has managed to find a rare French gem in this story that is inspirational and comedic. His cast of characters all bring a humanity to this realm that tends to be left to the elite and wealthy. Despite their flaws, each level of society is allowed to put a fresh coat of paint on their lives and relationships. Lutz and Drucker carry the film while Louise Chevillotte, the habitual liar and divisive intern Aurore, gives this story the layers it needs to draw the viewer into this comedic work of art. The Stolen Painting is worth discovering, basking in for a time and like the response from all who looked upon Egon Schiele’s work, it will captivate the soul and have you leaving the cinema smiling.

Reel Dialogue: What is Wrong with a Little Lie? 

“Lies beget more lies: once you start lying you have to keep lying more and more to hide the lies that you already told.” 

You may be able to hear the words of your mother on the topic of lying. One lie can begin a chain of events that only come to a resolution when the truth comes out. Do not lie is not exclusive to the Bible. Still, it is a moral code that can save relationships, reputations and lives. 

Aurore treats lying as if it is second nature and as if it has no consequences. A mixture of lies, grief and a need for acceptance would be enough for anyone to consider substance abuse and other self-destructive activities. What becomes evident in this familiar storyline is the value and relief of the truth. It may be complex and painful, but inevitably it does prove to be the best path for life and relationships. 

Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment. – Proverbs 12:19

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

A Fresh Take and a New Aesthetic for Marvel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (OUT OF 5 STARS)

As the Marvel multiverse continues to expand following the merger of Disney and 20th Century Studios, The Fantastic Four devotees have eagerly awaited the return of Marvel’s First Family. Set in the retro-futuristic world of Earth-828, director Matt Shakman masterfully guides this blended family of metahuman misfits on an adventure unlike anything audiences have seen in this universe before.

While familiar to Marvel enthusiasts, the origin story of Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm / Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Ben Grimm / The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), and Johnny Storm / Human Torch (Joseph Quinn) is cleverly conveyed through a vintage montage (reminiscent of The Incredibles opening). This sets the stage for their established role as protectors of humanity, ensuring stability in interactions both within their own ranks and against villainous forces from Earth and beyond. Yet, they live an idyllic life in the heart of New York City, even awaiting the arrival of Reed and Sue’s first child they don’t realise how danger lurks around the corner. Their peaceful existence is shattered when the celestial herald, the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner), arrives, announcing that the world is about to be devoured by the cosmic entity Galactus (voiced by Ralph Ineson), and humanity must prepare for its demise.

What will truly jolt fans into a new reality is the distinct aesthetic and tone of The Fantastic Four: First Steps. While the recent trend in the comic-book-inspired universe has leaned towards darker narratives, this film takes a sharp turn into the past. Drawing inspiration from the likes of The Jetsons and The Incredibles, Reed Richards and company inhabit a world that operates as if it sprang directly from a classic graphic novel, and the production team fully embraces what this affords them. This ensemble cast operates with seemingly unlimited resources, timelines that defy conventional logic, and relationships that transcend human reality. Despite these fantastical elements, the cast and production team make it all feel believable, drawing the audience into a story reminiscent of a different era while simultaneously existing in one that transcends our own sensibilities. Interestingly, this approach works, proving that escapism is often what we desire from these stories, rather than being lectured on how we should live.

Pascal, Kirby, Moss-Bachrach, and Quinn have unequivocally made their case; they successfully prove they deserve to wear the iconic suits of the new Fantastic Four. First Steps embodies the amiable reality of Mr. Fantastic, the narrative strength of The Thing, the passionate flame of the Human Torch, and the familial power of the Invisible Woman. This film provides the world with hope that superheroes can genuinely inspire, entertain, and allow us all to enter their world as we yearn to escape our own.

Reel Dialogue: Fighting for My Family

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is, at its core, a story about family. It’s a blended, sometimes dysfunctional, family under attack on every front, but the importance of their bond remains paramount to this superhero adventure. The theme of family will undoubtedly bring a smile to some people’s faces, while for others, it may cause tears to well up. While this comic-book-inspired tale does get a little cheesy at times, there’s no denying the crucial role familial connection plays for the characters and society.

As they fight for their family and society, this bond among humans proves to be a bittersweet gift given to us all. Have you ever considered how your family, for better or worse, is a gift from God? This film encourages viewers to cherish the family they have or to strive to improve their relationships with the family they’ve been given.

Regardless of your personal experience with your family, have you taken the time to show your parents, children, and extended family the appreciation they deserve today?

Exodus 20:12 – “Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the lord your God is giving you.”

Psalm 127:3-5 – “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.”

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

Would This Documentary Interest Those Inside And Outside The Christian Faith? Sing It Loud… Yes!

What might be surprising for audiences to hear about the latest feature-length documentary from Australian historian John Dickson is that this story has something for everyone. History, mystery, music, and a glimpse into this academic’s passion for music throughout time. For all who have followed John’s lessons in making history accessible and engaging for modern audiences, this project has a heightened enthusiasm that becomes evident as each chapter is opened to the discovery of the first hymn and how it is eventually resurrected by some of the greatest songwriters of this era.

Director Mark Hadley puts together a compelling excursion that winds through the annals of time to show how P.Oxy 1786, Christianity’s oldest hymn, travels from an ancient rubbish heap to become a beautiful expression of humanity’s love of Jesus. Dr Dickson narrates this tale in a unique manner that draws the viewer in and does more than merely educate, as he proves why we should care about this song as much as this celebrated author clearly does. Throughout the narrative, the viewer hears about the history of this small piece of papyrus, its ancient significance and how the music it holds transcends time.

Admittedly, those from within Christianity will be able to quickly embrace the value of what is being shared on screen. Yet, Hadley and Dickson’s combined style brings forth a compelling storyline that will win over those sceptics who may dismiss the significance of this find as credible experts are interviewed throughout to support how this small fragment of history has meaning for all of mankind. The music alone should captivate the souls of all willing to let the tune permeate their souls. For Chris Tomlin and Fielding fans, this film is a must-see, but even if you don’t know the artists, anyone should be able to appreciate the music and its implications through the ages.

The First Hymn as a song is an experience that the listener will hope to experience on repeat on their favourites song list for years to come. Yet, the film provides the nuance, depth and richness needed to understand how important this song is historically and spiritually for all who hear and truly appreciate its words.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

We all need to head back to the Hawaiian islands for one more adventure.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

As the rollout of Disney live-action treatments of their classic films continues, many may groan at the idea of remaking the 2002 surprise hit Lilo & Stitch. Yet, this unbelievable sci-fi family may translate to the big screen better than recent offerings if the House of Mouse can capture the heart of the original. Especially with the advancements in cinematic technology and animation, this film could shock fans as it becomes the unexpected family film of the season.

For any parents who haven’t had the original film on regular repeat for their children over the past two decades, let’s get you up to speed on the Hawaiian exploits of this furry blue alien. Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders) is the creation of mad-genius Dr. Jumba Jookiba (Zach Galifianakis) who has been arrested for this abomination to the United Galactic Federation council. Yet, during the trial of the scientist and his creature, Stitch manages to escape to the planet Earth and lands on the island of Hawaii. As he is pursued by this creator and Agent Pleakley (Billy Magnussen), a Plorgonarian agent who is an Earth “expert,” the fugitive creature is unexpectedly adopted by a lonely little girl named Lilo (Maia Kealoha) and her sister/guardian, Sydney (Nani Pelekai). The combination turns into an intergalactic refugee story that twists together aliens, government authorities and family that will capture the hearts of new and old fans.

Just as the initial tale captured the imagination of a generation, this live-action version of Lilo & Stitch manages to keep the tradition alive. Granted, audiences will need a certain level of imagination to embrace this crazily destructive little, blue hero, but all will be rewarded for coming along. Children will laugh at all the shenanigans of these two unlikely friends, and parents can relish the trusted family fun unfolding on the big screen. Some scarier elements might make this best for children over five. Still, everyone else who comes along will enjoy the family-centred messaging and the ridiculous combination of science fiction and the beauty of the Hawaiian islands. Some modern twists bring this screenplay into this era. At the same time, the production team keeps to the fundamental core of the story that families have come to love over the years.

All those who have grown sceptical of Disney’s reimagining of these movie favourites might want to give this one a chance. Maia Kealoha is a gem. It embodies the heartfelt nature of Lilo, and the animation supports Stitch coming alive on the sandy island beaches. It is a great beginning to the upcoming season that yearns to welcome families back to the cinemas.

What Do Parents Need to Know About Lilo & Stitch?

Every parent can let out a sigh of relief that Disney has finally stayed true to what made this film a hit. They remain to the storyline that parents can trust to entertain and open the door to amazing conversations with their children. This story is loaded with excellent links to discussions about loyalty, the difference between good and bad, plus the opportunities to talk about the value of family is worth the price of admission.

Great Biblical Support For Talking Points:

Family: Proverbs 22:6: – “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Loyalty: Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

Celine Song entered the cinematic scene in 2023 with her captivating Academy Award-nominated pseudo-romance Past Lives. Her brilliantly told story of love lost over decades and cultures transcended time and languages. Her newest film has a tonal shift reminiscent of the Will Smith romantic comedy of the matchmaker, Hitch. Yet, from the opening credits to the introduction of Dakota Johnson’s (Daddio) character, audiences should know they are in store for something different. 

Lucy (Johnson) works for the New York City-based matchmaking firm Adore, and she is one of the most successful relationship managers for a reason. She invests in her clients and genuinely hopes they meet the love of their lives. Yet, she doesn’t yearn for a personal connection for herself until the matchmaker meets the industry definition of a “unicorn” in the wealthy and handsome financier Harry Castillo (Pedro Pascal). Though apprehensive about these relational ties, Lucy slowly determines whether they match. This decision is even more complicated as she happens upon John (Chris Evans), her former boyfriend, and she must decide what she is really looking for in love and life.

Despite feeling like the typical love triangle set-up that has defined romantic comedies throughout the ages, Celine Song has something else in store. The writer/director takes the romantic drama down paths that challenge the transactional side of relationships and challenge audiences to look beyond the material aspects of human connections. Dakota Johnson is perfectly cast as the jaded woman sceptical of actual emotional interaction. She is written with a guarded appeal that the central character embodies with convincing form. Yet, the script favours the male leads as they get the best dialogue and show how romance does not need to be solely owned by women. The artist within Song’s soul introduces some unnecessary artistic elements. Still, as an A24 production, she can’t help herself. 

To be warned, Materialists is more of a romantic drama than a comedy and does dive deep into very real elements of the dating game and human contact. This film is a romance for grown-ups who yearn for depth in their story while not losing the romantic side of life not defined by grandiose weddings or living in a Manhattan penthouse. Celine Song offers something for those who hope to be entertained, wooed by beautiful people, and seek a reality in their stories that allows them to show what love can be for those seeking the right match.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

Over the past 15 years since its initial release, How to Train Your Dragon has become a franchise beloved by young and old. The Isle of Berk, Toothless, and Hiccup have managed to capture the hearts and minds of fans who have gone on to embrace the fantasy world of dragons and their riders. Yet, when Dreamworks considered bringing these cherished characters to the real world, many would be justified in wondering if this live-action version would still carry the same magic.

A sigh of relief could be heard throughout the fanbase as Dean DeBlois was given the reins of this project as writer, director and producer. If anyone could keep the vision accurate to the original storyline on the right course, the animated film’s director was the man for the job. Hiccup (Mason Thames) comes to life on screen as the misunderstood son of the Viking leader, Chief Stoick the Vast (role reprised by Gerard Butler). As they defend the isle of Berk from dragons, the inhabitants must search for the nest of the creatures. During the adult’s absence, the young train for the ongoing battle between humans and the fire-breathers. Until Hiccup manages to bring down a Night Fury and befriends the flying beast, who the young Viking names Toothless. The pair must overcome fear, prejudices and misunderstandings to unite these warring parties to fight a common enemy.

The trend of turning animated classics into live-action films has proven to be a hit-or-miss proposition for Disney over the years. This studio practice might cause some concern for Toothless fans. Yet, this fear will prove unwarranted as DeBlois stays true to the original film with only a few nuances added to complement the story. Each character comes to life, and as things unfold, Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, and Gerard Butler all manage to fill the helmets and saddles of their animated alter egos. Yet, the locations and the CGI-created dragons make this a convincing transition to live-action.

The Irish Isles provide a fantastic backdrop for the filming as this taps into the visual inspiration of Game of Thrones and Avatar. The flying scenes are convincing, and the island sets will convince the audience that there truly is a Viking settlement in the real world. Still, the part that will convince the greatest sceptic of this move will be the visual effects that will bring the dragons to life. Granted, the Deadly Nadder, Gronckle, and the Hideous Zipplebacks seem a bit cartoonish, but Toothless looks so convincing that the viewer would think they could reach out and touch him like Hiccup does.

Between the outstanding computer generation, the beautiful settings and the compelling performances from the whole cast, How to Train Your Dragon will satisfy the devoted and draw a whole new audience to this amazing franchise. A film that needs to be experienced on the big screen to truly be appreciated and celebrated once again.

Reel Dialogue: What Does Being a Father, Not Merely a Viking, Mean To Your Children?

‘Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with His enemies in the gate.’ Psalm 127:3-5

One aspect of this franchise that stands out is the importance of the father’s love and acceptance. The relationship between Hiccup and Stoick is integral to this storyline and shows how essential it is in the lives of children everywhere.

The role of fatherhood that tends to get overlooked is that it is not only a responsibility but also a privilege. Children are truly a blessing. It can be hard to remember this during early morning feedings or the latest car smash, but these incidental things should not diminish the gift that they are in our lives.

Fathers need to look at this opportunity as an honour and do all that can be done to be the men our children need us to be. Some days are harder than others, but thankfully, the Bible gives us the instruction manual to help mould our children, and prayer provides the comfort to watch over them in all situations.

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” – Joshua 24:15

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (OUT OF 5 STARS) 

Jessica Lange has had an enviable career on multiple levels. She has won an Academy Award, played opposite some of Hollywood’s incredible acting talent, and continues to deliver outstanding performances after decades of work.

Yet, The Great Lillian Hall has all the markings of a great actress who wants to prove she has more to give her audiences. Her on-screen persona is a fictionalised account of another great from the theatre, Marian Seldes. 

Lange’s portrayal has her play a celebrated thespian who has conquered most of the great works on stage is ready to lead in a Broadway production of Anton Chekhov’s “The Cherry Orchard.” Yet, something has been troubling her throughout the rehearsals, and the production team has noticed. Lillian lacks the focus she is known for from other plays and continually drops her lines. Events prompt her to see her physician, who diagnoses her with an aggressive form of dementia, which puts her life and production in jeopardy. As the award-winning actress struggles to make opening night, her friend Edith (Kathy Bates), her daughter Margaret (Lily Rabe) and David (Jesse Williams), the director, try to salvage the night and her legacy.

Reminiscent of Anthony Hopkins performance in The Father, Jessica Lange puts in unforgettable work in this tragic role. This emotional journey will resonate with all who have friends or family who struggle with this viscous condition. Director Michael Cristofer takes the audience into the internal recesses of his lead actress while showing us the ripple effects her dementia has on all of those in her relational orbit. A story that proves that this disease is not discriminatory in who it comes upon and regardless of how successful they may be in life, its claws are unrelenting once they take hold. 

Even as Lange takes centre stage in this film, she is wonderfully surrounded by a cast who perfectly complement her throughout. Kathy Bates toes the line from stealing every scene to showing how she can be a strong supporting role and friend. Still, if there was anyone to take the attention away from Lange during the story, it would be Lily Rabe. She embodies a star’s child’s emotional highs and lows watching her mother about to ‘exit stage right’ in her career and life. Jesse Williams and Pierce Brosnan bring other layers to this tale, making it a well-rounded affair worth discovering. 

The Great Lillian Hall honours a theatrical legend by allowing a screen icon to deliver one of the best performances of her career.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.