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Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson for Wbgr-fm on March 6th, 2025, reviewing “Chaos: The Manson Murders,” a documentary by Errol Morris. Streaming on Netflix beginning March 7th.

The story involves the infamous killings on August 9th, 1969, of the residents and random folks who happened to be at the Los Angeles home of actress and victim Sharon Tate, and then the arbitrary murders of Leno & Rosemary Labianca the next night, based on a book co-authored by Tim O’Neil (featured in the film. The murders shocked a violence-weary 1960s nation, and the subsequent trial made a star out of prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi, who went on to author the best seller Helter Skelter based on the case. But what O’Neil uncovered was a an intricate web involving Manson, the CIA and the U.S. government, who were using all means necessary to put the hippie...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson for Wbgr-fm on March 6th, 2025, reviewing “Mickey 17,” adapted and directed by Bong Joon Ho of the Oscar Best Picture “Parasite.” In theaters March 7th.

Robert Pattinson is Mickey Barnes, a future man whose debts have buried him. On the now-harsh planet earth, he signs up to be an expendable … a human body that is used for experimentation in a space mission to the Planet Nilfheim. His body is made to be killed, then cloned for further experimentation, thus he exists in the story as Mickey 17 … the 17th clone. During a wintery Planet N exploration, he is left for dead, but is rescued by the armadillo-like creatures that are native to the territory. The earth leaders of the mission, Marshall (Mark Ruffalo) and his wife Yi-fa (Toni Collette), are looking to exploit and control the new planet,...

On Thursday 13 February 2025, BBC Two broadcasts Great British Menu!

Scotland Season 20 Episode 9 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Great British Menu,” titled “Scotland,” promises to be an exciting and intense showdown. As the competition heats up, it is judging day, and only one chef will earn the chance to represent Scotland. This pivotal moment will determine who moves forward in the prestigious culinary contest.

In this episode, two talented chefs will present their best dishes to a panel of judges. The stakes are high, as only one will win the opportunity to showcase their skills on a larger stage. To add to the excitement, Ben Thompson, a dedicated Rnli volunteer and Pride of Scotland winner, will join the judging panel. His experience and passion for Scotland will bring a unique perspective to the decision-making process.

Viewers can expect a blend of creativity, tension, and culinary excellence as the chefs put...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson for Wbgr-fm on February 6th, 2025, reviewing “No Other Land,” nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 2025 Oscars. In select theaters on February 7th.

The main focus is on co-writer and co-director Basel Adra, who has lived in the West Bank region of Masafer Yatta since he was a child. He follows in his father’s footsteps as an activist when the Israeli army invades the territory in 2019, claiming they legally own it so they can conduct military maneuvers. With superior firepower and a bulldozer, they begin to dismantle an area that has been on the maps since the 19th Century. Basel seeks help from Israeli journalist and anti-government protestor Yuval Abraham, but with attention spans around the world shrinking and oppressive attacks from Israel continuing, the fight to save the Masafer Yatta region is falling on...

The excitement builds as “Great British Menu” reaches its pivotal moment in Season 20, Episode 9, titled “Scotland.” This episode promises to be a thrilling showdown, as it is judging day. Only one chef will earn the prestigious chance to represent Scotland in the grand finale. With the stakes higher than ever, viewers can expect a display of culinary creativity and passion.

Joining the judging panel is Ben Thompson, a dedicated Rnli volunteer and a Pride of Scotland winner. His experience and insight will be invaluable as he helps decide which of the two remaining chefs will move forward in the competition. Both chefs have worked tirelessly to showcase the best of Scottish cuisine, and the pressure is on to impress both the judges and the audience.

As the clock ticks down, the tension in the kitchen will be palpable. Each chef will present their signature dishes, hoping to capture the essence...

Chicago – It’s New Year’s Eve, so what better day for a look-back to the 10 Best Films of 2024, a soul search exercise in experiences. How do you break down a hundred and a half films in a year to a 10 in the end? Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, Wbgr-fm and Wssr-fm gives it his best shot.

If there was one trend that defined 2024, in my observation, was the perhaps beginning of the end of the superhero genre? The only huge hit was Deadpool & Wolverine ($640M), with Venom: The Last Dance in second ($132M) barely reaching its budget in domestic box office. Madame Web, Kraven The Hunter and Joker: Folie Á Deux were box office duds.

I format my 10 Best to reflect the on-air reviews I do weekly on Wbgr-fm and Wssr-fm and occasional appearances on Missourinet.com. Each of the 10 Best will be in the on-air or audio format for your listening pleasure.

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson for Wbgr-fm on December 5th, reviewing “Y2K,” former SNL cast member Kyle Mooney’s directorial debut, set on 12/31/99. In theaters on December 6th.

This film has two 1999 teens, Eli (Jaeden Martell) and Danny (Julian Dennison) crashing a popular kids New Year’s Eve Party. When the clock strikes midnight what everyone had been predicting comes true … a societal breakdown as the Year 2000 begins. But maybe with the help of their stoner friend Garrett (Kyle Mooney), Eli’s high school crush Laura (Rachel Zegler) and improbably Fred Durst of Limp Bizkit, they may be able to survive the beginnings of a digital age collapse.

”Y2K” is in theaters on December 6th. Featuring aeden Martell, Julian Dennison, Rachel Zegler, Kyle Mooney and Fred Durst. Written by Kyle Mooney and Evan Winter. Directed by Kyle Mooney. Rated “R”

Click...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson for Wbgr-fm on December 5th, reviewing “Nightbitch,” featuring Amy Adams and directed by Marielle Heller (“Can You Ever Forgive Me?”). In theaters on December 6th.

Amy Adams is the Mother, whose circumstances were changed significantly when she gave up an art career to raise her now-toddler son, with her husband (Scoot McNairy), who has unexpectedly becoming a business traveling breadwinner. Amid this traditional set-up, Adam’s character is mentally dissolving, while at the same feeling physical changes having to do with her transformation into an animal state, in this case a large dog.

”Nightbitch” is in theaters on December 6th. Featuring Amy Adams, Scoot McNairy, Zoë Choe, Mary Holland, Ella Thomas and Jessica Harper. Screenplay adapted and directed by Marielle Heller. Rated “R”

Click Here for Patrick McDonald’s on-air review of ”Nightbitch”

Nightbitch

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Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson for Wbgr-fm on November 21st, reviewing the highly anticipated film adaptation of the famous Broadway stage play “Wicked,” in theaters on November 22nd.

The story involves two students who meet at Shiz University (for shizzle) … Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), the green-skinned and future Wicked Witch of the West, as well as bubbly Galinda (Ariana Grande), destined to become Glinda the Good Witch. The two begin as rivals, as Elfie has problems with the bigotry other students have for her green skin, and they both have eyes on fellow student Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey). When Elfie also shows promise in casting spells, she is taken under wing by Headmistress Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), and eventually Elphaba and Galinda join forces and become besties. When Elfie gets an invite to see the Wonderful Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum), the...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on October 24th, reviewing the film “Conclave” an adaptation of the popular Robert Harris novel about papal succession. In theaters on October 25th.

After the current Pope dies, Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is charged with gathering his colleagues in a Conclave … the deciding voters of the successor Pope. Candidates include the liberal Cardinal Bellini (Stanley Tucci), the conservative Cardinal Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto) and the in-between Cardinal Tremblay (John Lithgow). When Sister Agnes (Isabella Rossellini) has a stark revelation, the succession is thrown into chaos. The twists and turns are witnessed by even the newest and most mysterious appointee, Cardinal Benitez (Carlos Diehz).

”Conclave” is in theaters on October 25h. Featuring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini, Sergio Castellitto, John Lithgow and Carlos Diehz. Screenplay adapted by Peter Straughan. Directed by Edward Berger. Rated “PG...

On Friday 11 October 2024, BBC Two broadcasts Richard Osman’s House of Games!

Week 3 Season 8 Episode 15 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Richard Osman’s House of Games,” titled “Week 3,” promises to bring more fun and excitement to the screen. This episode will air on BBC Two and features a new lineup of celebrity contestants. Jacqui Joseph, Ben Thompson, Laura Tobin, and Henning Wehn will compete in various quiz rounds, all chosen by the charming host, Richard Osman.

Each day of the week, these celebrities will face different challenges that test their knowledge and quick thinking. Richard Osman, known for his wit and quiz expertise, will guide them through the rounds, making sure the competition remains lively and engaging. The mix of personalities among the contestants is sure to create entertaining moments, filled with laughter and friendly rivalry.

As the week progresses, viewers can expect a blend of trivia, strategy, and perhaps...

On Tuesday 8 October 2024, BBC Two broadcasts Richard Osman’s House of Games!

Week 3 Season 8 Episode 12 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Richard Osman’s House of Games,” titled “Week 3,” promises to bring more fun and excitement to the screen. This episode will air on BBC Two and features a group of celebrity contestants ready to test their knowledge and skills in various quiz rounds.

The contestants for this episode include Jacqui Joseph, known for her vibrant personality, Ben Thompson, a familiar face in journalism, Laura Tobin, who brings her weather expertise, and Henning Wehn, the comedian with a unique take on life. Each of them will face challenges set by the host, Richard Osman, who is well-known for his wit and quiz mastery.

As the week progresses, viewers can expect a mix of laughter and friendly competition. Richard Osman will guide the contestants through different rounds, each designed to challenge their trivia knowledge and quick thinking.

On Friday, October 11, 2024, “Richard Osman’s House of Games” returns for another entertaining episode at 6:00 Pm on BBC Two. In this exciting Season 8 Episode 15, viewers can expect a lively quiz showdown featuring celebrity contestants Jacqui Joseph, Ben Thompson, Laura Tobin, and Henning Wehn. Each day of the week, these well-known personalities will face off in a series of fun and challenging quiz rounds, all carefully selected by the charming host, Richard Osman.

The competitive spirit will be palpable as the celebrities showcase their knowledge across a range of topics. Fans of the show will be treated to light-hearted banter and clever interactions between the contestants, creating a relaxed atmosphere filled with laughter and surprises. Richard Osman’s wit and charm will keep the energy high, ensuring that audiences are thoroughly entertained.

As the week progresses, the stakes will rise, and viewers will be eager to see who will emerge victorious.

In the exciting upcoming episode of Richard Osman’s House of Games, titled “Week 3,” airing on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 6:00 Pm on BBC Two, viewers can expect a thrilling quiz showdown among a lineup of celebrity contestants. This week, the spotlight shines on Jacqui Joseph, Ben Thompson, Laura Tobin, and Henning Wehn as they engage in a series of challenging quiz rounds curated by the ever-charismatic host, Richard Osman.

Each day of the week brings new questions and formats, testing the contestants’ knowledge and wits. With Richard’s unique flair for hosting, the competition promises to be both entertaining and unpredictable. The celebrities will not only battle for points but also for bragging rights as they showcase their trivia skills in various topics.

Fans of the show will enjoy watching these familiar faces tackle fun yet tricky questions, all while sharing laughs and friendly banter. This episode is sure to...

Season 8, Episode 11 of “Richard Osman’s House of Games,” titled “Week 3,” is set to air on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 6:00 Pm on BBC Two. This exciting episode features a lineup of celebrity contestants who are ready to put their knowledge to the test. Joining quiz legend Richard Osman are Jacqui Joseph, Ben Thompson, Laura Tobin, and Henning Wehn, each bringing their unique personalities and skills to the game.

Throughout the episode, the celebrity contestants will face a variety of quiz rounds carefully selected by Richard. Each round promises to challenge their wits and offer plenty of laughs, making for an entertaining viewing experience. The friendly competition between the contestants adds to the fun, as they strive to outsmart one another and claim the title of the day’s champion.

With a mix of trivia, fun facts, and quirky questions, “Richard Osman’s House of Games” continues to delight audiences with its clever format and engaging atmosphere.

Marvel Comics roots reach back to Golden Age characters like Ka-Zar, Ghost Rider, and Marvel Boy who were later reimagined in the Silver Age. Characters like Miss America, Electro, and The Vision have rich histories from the Golden Age reimagined for the modern era in Marvel Comics. The Human Torch, Black Widow, and The Angel all have origins dating back to the Golden Age, demonstrating how Marvel revives and evolves characters.

What fans think of as Marvel Comics may have officially started in 1961, but the company extends all the way back to the Golden Age of comics. The publication of Marvel Comics #1 featured the first appearances of characters as varied as Namor, the Angel and the Human Torch, although some were very different than the characters modern fans are familiar with

Known as Timely Comics during the Golden Age, the company published a number of superhero characters to capitalize off the monumental success of Superman.

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on June 13th, reviewing “Brats,” a new documentary about the infamous “Brat Pack” of the 1980s, directed by Pack member Andrew McCarthy. Streaming on Hulu since June 13th.

Rating: 5.0/5.0

Remember the “Brat Pack” from the 1980s … especially the main members Andrew McCarthy, Emilio Estevez, Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Molly Ringwald and Judd Nelson, among other adjacent members? In movies like “St. Elmo’s Fire,” “The Outsiders,” “The Breakfast Club,” and “Pretty in Pink,” among others? Well, Andrew McCarthy decided to make a documentary on how that “grouping” affected them, what resentments they hold onto, and how they think about it today.

“Brats” is streaming on Hulu since June 13th. Featuring memories from Andrew McCarthy, Emilio Estevez, Rob Lowe, Demi Moore and Ally Sheedy. Directed by Andrew McCarthy. Not Rated.

Click Here for Patrick...

Sony Pictures Classics’ Dylan Leiner along with FilmNation’s Stefan Zorich and Paramount’s Fabrizio Carrer were among the top film executives and companies who participated in the 13th NY Film & Entertainment Soccer Tournament for charity hosted at the Tribeca Festival.

The sun-drenched event gathered 39 teams, along with more than 60 filmmakers from the Tribeca Festival, and hundreds of spectators at Brooklyn Bridge Park overlooking downtown Manhattan.

The annual 5 v 5 charity soccer tournament, co-organized by Leiner and Jeffrey Saunders, will donate funds to the two organizations reigning atop the Soccer-4-Good Division, the big winner being Upwardly Global – which helps immigrants and refugees get back to work in their chosen fields; and Grassroot soccer, an organization that leverages the power of soccer to equip young people with life-saving information, services and mentorship.

Some of the high-profile talent in attendance included Phil Dunster (“Ted Lasso”) who presented his short film “Idiomatic” at...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on May 30th, reviewing “Jim Henson: Idea Man,” directed by Ron Howard and featuring Frank Oz and The Muppets. Streaming on Disney+ beginning May 31st.

Rating: 5.0/5.0

Jim Henson was born in Mississippi and raised there and in Maryland. He answered an ad for a Washington, D.C. television station in the 1950s … they were looking for a puppeteer … and astoundingly, Henson got the job with no previous puppetry experience. Partnering with Jane Nebel, who would eventually become his wife, the two created the beginnings of the Muppet phenomenon by gearing their comedy towards adults. Eventually forming a company, Jim and Jane were able to get by through commercials and TV work through the 1960s, until Henson practically invented Sesame Street in 1969. Always itching for new avenues of creativity, he launched “The Muppet Show” in...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on May 30th, reviewing “Ezra,” featuring Bobby Cannavale and Robert De Niro as a son and father, struggling to help raise an autistic boy. In theaters on May 31st.

Rating: 4.5/5.0

William Fitzgerald portrays the title character, an autistic boy in New York City who is being co-raised by his divorced parents Max (Bobby Cannavale) and Jenna (Rose Byrne). Max is an at-the-brink stand up comedian who lives with his father Stan (Robert De Niro). When Max attacks one of Ezra’s doctors, he is forced into a restraining order, but decides to take matters into his own hands and kidnaps his son, and takes a road trip while learning that he’s landed a gig on the Jimmy Kimmel show. As law enforcement, his ex-wife and Stan pursue Max and Ezra, the whole situation comes into focus.

The 2024 Tribeca Festival has just unveiled new additions to its already star-studded lineup.

IndieWire can confirm that the New York premiere of “A Quiet Place: Day One” will take place as part of the festival, which runs June 5 through 16. The film will have a special screening June 26 in partnership with Paramount Pictures in IMAX.

The festival, presented by Okx, announced the addition of 11 new feature films, including eight world premieres. Documentaries “Federer: Twelve Final Days” and “Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes,” produced by J.J. Abrams, are among the highlights, plus Dawn Porter’s “Power of the Dream.”

Hannah Einbinder’s first-ever stand-up comedy special “Hannah Einbinder: Everything Must Go” will also have its world premiere at the festival.

“At our core, we are an activist festival, united by the belief that art can inspire change,” Tribeca Co-Founder and CEO Jane Rosenthal. “We’re excited to add 11 new films to our Festival lineup,...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on May 2nd, reviewing “Unfrosted,” featuring Jerry Seinfeld as lead role, co-writer and his debut as director. Streaming on Netflix beginning May 3rd.

Rating: 4.5/5.0

The year is 1963, and Seinfeld is Bob Cabana, product developer at the Kellogg’s cereal company in Battle Creek, Michigan. He reports directly to company owner Edsel Kellogg III (Jim Gaffigan), and lives the prototype early 1960s American Dream life with John F. Kennedy, Walter Cronkite, Tony the Tiger and daily milk man deliveries. Kellogg’s rival is Post Cereals, also in Battle Creek, owned by Majorie Post (Amy Schumer). Kelloggs is facing off with Post … with the help of food developer Donna “Stan” Stankowski (Melissa McCarthy … to be the first to create a toaster pastry for America’s breakfast tables. The race is on.

”Unfrosted” is streaming on Netflix beginning May 3rd.

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on May 2nd, reviewing “The Fall Guy,” featuring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt in an adaptation of an 1980s TV series. In theaters on May 3rd.

Rating: 2.5/5.0

Ryan Gosling is Colt Seavers, a stunt man for the movies, particularly doubling for famous action star Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). As the film begins, it’s established that Colt has a relationship with Jody (Emily Blunt), but the relationship is severed after Colt breaks his back with a stunt gone wrong. After a year goes by and he’s healed, Colt gets a call from Movie Producer Gail (Hannah Waddingham from “Ted Lasso”), hiring him back to work on a film that Jody is directing. When a murder occurs and Colt is framed for it, he suddenly involved in more than just stunts

”The Fall Guy...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on April 25th, 2024, reviewing “The Feeling That the Time for Doing Something Has Passed,” In select theaters on April 26th. See local listings.

Rating: 5.0/5.0

Joanna Arnow (also writer and director) is Ann, a nebbishy middle of the road type that lives in New York City and works for a bland we-don’t-know-what-they-do marketing company that is in the midst of a merger. Meanwhile, through dating apps, Ann indulges her kink as a submissive in her online hook ups, including her main man Allen (Scott Cohen), who in his “master” role is completely dismissive of her or her needs. As she cycles through other men she lands with Chris (Babak Tafti) who takes a romantic shine to her. Is the feeling that the time for doing something have passed, or is that feeling misjudged?

”The Feeling That the Time for Doing Something Has Passed...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on April 25th, 2024, reviewing “Challengers,” a new tennis themed film involving mixed doubles, featuring Zendaya. In theaters on April 26th.

Rating: 4.0/5.0

Zendaya is Tashi Duncan, a world ranked tennis player who suffers a career ending injury right before she was about to turn pro. In flashbacks, while competing at the junior-to-collegiate level she meets Patrick (Josh O’Connor) and Art (Mike Faist), two promising male tennis players … she creates young-tennis-players in love connection with both. Fast forward to the present, Tashi is married to Art, and has coached him to a wealthy professional level. When Art starts to fade in the Wimbleton-level circuit, Tashi suggests a club challenge, where old buddy/flame Patrick reappears .. and while facing off against Art, volleys again for Tashi’s loyalties.

”Challengers” is in theaters beginning April 28th. Featuring Zendaya,...

The Tribeca Festival on Tuesday announced its lineup of short narrative, documentary, and animated films, as well as music videos for 2024.

Across its 12 short film sections, the festival will showcase 87 works from 101 filmmakers in 27 countries, the most ever repped at Tribeca. World premieres include Motorcycle Mary, a profile on motorsports pioneer Mary McGee from director-producer Haley Watson, as well as producers Rachel Greenwald, Ben Proudfoot and Lewis Hamilton; the not-so-straightforward queer love story Ripe!, produced by two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist Kelley O’Hara; the Ptsd tale Bite starring Troian Bellisario; and Out of the Dark: Cal Calamia, an intimate look at Cal Calamia, a transgender marathon runner advocating for athletic inclusion. The New York narrative shorts lineup includes the world premieres of Happy to Help You starring Amy Sedaris and Jeremy Beiler, and Veo Veo A Family, a story of familial bonds starring Carla Gugino and Ko.

The 2024 Tribeca Festival has officially unveiled its shorts lineup.

Presented by Okx, the festival includes short narrative, documentary, and animated films, as well as music videos. This year’s festival takes place June 5 through 16, and boasts 12 short film sections, including 87 total shorts from 101 filmmakers with 65 films in competition and 10 music videos.

The 2024 lineup has a record-breaking number of countries represented ranging from Saudi Arabia, Côte D’Ivoire, Martinique, Chile, Qatar, and more for a total of 27 nations. For the first time, the majority of the program is directed by female filmmakers. The lineup includes 50 world premieres, seven international premieres, six North American premieres, two U.S. premieres, and 22 New York premieres. Seven directors return to Tribeca with their latest projects.

Highlights include the world premieres of “Motorcycle Mary,” directed by Haley Watson and produced by two-time Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot, Rachel Greenwald, seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton; queer romance “Ripe!

The 2024 Tribeca Festival, which unveiled its film slate Wednesday, is out with its television lineup of world premieres of new and returning programs from networks and streamers.

The 23rd edition, which unspool June 5-16, features 11 series premieres and two first looks at returning classics. World premieres include Hulu’s Mastermind: To Think Like A Killer, executive produced by Dakota Fanning and Elle Fanning, an in-depth exploration of Dr. Anne Burgess’ journey in closing some of America’s most infamous criminal cases; Hollywood Black, executive produced by Justin Simien, an examination of the Black experience in Hollywood featuring conversations with Issa Rae, Lena Waithe, Ryan Coogler, and Ava DuVernay; and Apple TV+’s Presumed Innocent, a legal thriller starring and executive produced by Jake Gyllenhaal, hailing from David E. Kelley and executive producer J.J. Abrams, also with Ruth Negga and Peter Sarsgaard.

The program spotlights ESPN docuseries In the Arena: Serena Williams,...

The 2024 Tribeca Festival TV and Now lineup is just about as star-studded as it gets.

This year’s installment, presented by Okx, includes the world premiere of David E. Kelley’s legal thriller “Presumed Innocent” starring Jake Gyllenhaal, who also executive produces along with J.J. Abrams. Ruth Negga, Peter Sarsgaard, Renate Reinsve, and O-t Fagbenle co-star in the Apple TV+ series that marks Gyllenhaal’s first foray into TV.

The Tribeca Festival takes place June 5 through 16 and highlights new and returning programs from networks and streamers such as Apple TV+, AMC, HBO, Hulu, Paramount+, and more. The 2024 TV lineup features 11 series premieres and two first looks at returning series, including the Season 4 premiere of “My Brilliant Friend” and “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol” Season 2.

True crime docuseries including as Hulu’s “Mastermind: To Think Like A Killer,” executive produced by Dakota Fanning and Elle Fanning, and...

The 23rd edition of the Tribeca Festival is out with its slate of feature films including world premieres starring Kristen Stewart, Lily Gladstone and Jenna Ortega. Another high-profile title is Saving Casa Bonita, a new documentary about South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone restoring an iconic Colorado restaurant.

Stewart toplines Sacramento, a road trip comedy directed by Michael Angarano and also starring Michael Cera and Maya Erskine. Jazzy with Gladstone and Jasmine Bearkiller Shangreaux is a companion piece to 2023 indie drama The Unknown Country, in which Gladstone appeared just prior to her Oscar-nominated performance in Killers Of The Flower Moon. Ortega stars in director Tiffany Paulsen’s romantic drama Winter Spring Summer or Fall alongside Marisol Nichols, Percy Hynes White and Adam Rodriguez.

The documentary lineup, long a Tribeca strength, will feature comedy greats politically tinged pics ahead of the U.S.

The 2024 Tribeca Festival has officially unveiled its star-studded lineup.

This year’s festival, presented by Okx, takes place June 5-16, with documentary “Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge” making its world premiere on opening night. Presented in partnership with Okx and City National Bank, the feature captures fashion designer von Furstenberg’s impact as a feminist creative icon. Tribeca alumni Trish Dalton and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy direct.

Programming highlights for the festival include screenings of “Jazzy” with Lily Gladstone, which is a sequel to the recent indie gem “The Unknown Country.” There is also “Daddio” starring Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn, “Firebrand” starring Alicia Vikander and Jude Law, and documentary “Brats,” directed by Andrew McCarthy and featuring Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Rob Lowe, Molly Ringwald, and Lea Thompson.

Kristen Stewart, who has already debuted two films at Sundance earlier this year, stars in “Sacramento,” directed by Michael Angarano. Highly-anticipated features “Winter Spring Summer or Fall...

William and Jim Reid of The Jesus and Mary Chain have announced a new memoir titled Never Understood: The Story of the Jesus and Mary Chain (pre-order here).

The two brothers, along with critic and writer Ben Thompson, will track the history of their band throughout the last four decades, from their origins in Scotland’s East Kilbride to their critically-lauded debut, Psychocandy, all the way to the band’s 1998 breakup and 2007 reunion.

It will also dive deep into the turmoil that both Reid brothers experienced in the band — issues with drugs, alcohol, adjustments to fame, and brotherly spats are highlighted throughout. Never Understood will be available first in the UK on August 15th (via White Rabbit), and later in the US on September 3rd (via Hatchette Books).

“It’s got plenty of warts, we can assure you of that,” said Jim Reid in a statement about the book. “In fact,...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on February 22th, 2024, reviewing the Apple TV+ series “The New Look,” which profiles the real people and their WW2-era decisions, behind fashion’s greatest names and brands. Currently streaming on the Apple TV+ platform.

Rating: 4.0/5.0

Two of the greatest names (and later brands) in fashion … Christian Dior (Ben Mendelsohn) and Coco Chanel (Juliette Binoche) … were stuck in Paris when the Nazis invaded and occupied the city during World War II. Dior’s sister Catherine (Maisie Williams) was part of the French resistance, so Christian is involved with her espionage. Meanwhile Coco is being feted by the Nazis, and in the volatile environment is reluctant to say no to them. Going forward in the 20th Century, the actions of Dior and Chanel will have implications for their careers as designers of high fashion. As of February 21st,...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on February 22th, 2024, reviewing “Drive-Away Dolls,” a new film from absurdist master Ethan Coen. In theaters beginning February 23rd .

Rating: 4.0/5.0

It’s 1999 and Margaret Qualley is Jamie, a rebellious lesbian who has just broken up with her live-in girlfriend Sukie (Beanie Feldstein). She commiserates with another girlfriend Marian (Geraldine Viswanathan), who is about to take a trip to Tallahassee to see her aunt. They decide to apply for a “drive away” car from Curley (Bill Camp), and he hands the keys over for a car he just received, after he was given instructions to set up the “Tallahassee drivers.” Turns out the car wasn’t intended for the gals, but for two goons (Joey Slotnick and C.J. Wilson) and contained a special package inside that the goons were to deliver to Florida Senator Gary...

Chicago – Here we are again, the end of another year, and it’s time to momentarily look back. Thus opens the 10 Best Films Of 2023, the list that represents one soul interacting with the art of cinema. That soul belongs to Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, Wbgr-fm and Wssr-fm.

So begins my list, with such a lofty and third person proclamation. By far, the story of the year is Barbenheimer (the same weekend release of Barbie and Oppenheimer), proving in the digital age that something weird and organic can take hold, and get more people to the theaters, celebrating a true movie event. Kudos to the movie celebrators who did both in one magic day.

I format my 10 Best to reflect the on-air reviews I do weekly on Wbgr-fm and Wssr-fm and New on Missourinet.com. Each of the 10 Best will be in the on-air or audio format for your listening pleasure.

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on December 14th, 2023, reviewing “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget,” the animated sequel to 2000’s “Chicken Run.” Steaming on Netflix beginning December 15th, 2023.

Rating: 3.5/5.0

It’s the same gang from “Chicken Run,” this time residing in an island paradise after the events from that film. Ginger (voice of Thandiwe Newton) and Rocky (Zachary Levy) welcome daughter Molly (Bella Ramsey), and the girl’s curiosity about her parent’s past leads to her to find a way out of chicken island. After hitching a ride on a transport truck, Molly lands in what seems like chicken paradise … all of the fowl running free and enjoying an amusement park. But it’s all part of a plan … a happy chicken is a tastier chicken, in an experiment run by old nemesis Mrs. Tweedy (Miranda Richardson). Can...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on November 9th, 2023, reviewing “Journey to Bethlehem,” a re-telling of the Baby Jesus story as a musical! In theaters on November 10th, 2023.

Rating: 3.5/5.0

Three Kings discover the star they are to follow, while Mary (Fiona Palomo) becomes engaged to Joseph (Milo Manheim). The angel Gabriel (the rapper Lecrae) also appears, and tells Mary she’s going to be the Mother of Jesus. At first, Joseph runs away, but a vision comes to him, and he finds his fiancé and completes the nuptials. Meanwhile, Herod (Antonio Banderas) calls for a census, so Mary and Joseph are about to journey to Bethlehem …and their destiny.

”Journey to Bethlehem” is in theaters on November 9th. Featuring Fiona Palomo, Milo Manheim, Lecrae, Geno Segers, Rizwan Manji, Omi Djalili and Antonio Banderas. Written by Adam Anders and Peter Barsocchini.

Ryan Connor's secret of doing webcam shows anonymously was revealed when his face was unintentionally shown during a cam show. Ryan stopped working in public due to his facial injuries from an acid attack, leading him to start online sex work. Ryan's budding romance with Daisy may face complications as their storyline develops into a dramatic love triangle with Daisy's committed fiancé, Daniel.

After months of suspense, Ryan Connor's secret was revealed on Coronation Street and it has affected his friendships including his budding romance with Daisy Midgeley. Britain's longest-running soap opera, Coronation Street chronicles the lives of the working-class folks who occupy the titular region of the fictional town of Weatherfield. Noted for its down-to-earth realism and tackling of familiar working-class issues, Coronation Street sets itself apart from other soaps because of its relatable subject matter. Even so, "Corrie" as the series is referred to by mega-fans, never...

The 23rd edition of the Tribeca Festival will unspool June 5-16, 2024, in New York City, organizers said today, and submissions are now open.

Festival Director Cara Cusumano has been promoted to SVP of Programming and José F. Rodriguez to Senior Programmer.

The fest, presented by Okx, and founded in 2001, has expanded over the years from film into television, immersive, games and audio storytelling and also leans heavily on music and live events, which may be helpful next year as ongoing Hollywood strikes by actors and writers slow production on U.S. projects.

“Tribeca is a global platform for storytellers to showcase art that speaks with purpose. As the industry has changed, we have evolved to be inclusive of all forms of storytelling,” said Tribeca CEO and co-founder Jane Rosenthal. “We’re proud to be the launchpad for the next generation of artists. The 23rd Tribeca Festival will be a groundbreaking...

The 2024 Tribeca Festival is already underway with submissions now open.

The 23rd edition of the New York City-based festival, presented by Okx, is set to take place June 5 through 16 next year, with programming ranging from film, TV, immersive, games, audio storytelling, talks, and more.

“Tribeca is a global platform for storytellers to showcase art that speaks with purpose,” Tribeca CEO and co-founder Jane Rosenthal said in a press statement. “As the industry has changed, we have evolved to be inclusive of all forms of storytelling. We’re proud to be the launchpad for the next generation of artists. The 23rd Tribeca Festival will be a groundbreaking cultural event that shifts how audiences receive and react to entertainment.”

Submissions for the 2024 Festival are now open:

Key dates for features are October 23, 2023 (early), November 27, 2023 (official), and January 17, 2024 (extended).

Shorts close on November 1, 2023 (early), December 15, 2023 (official), and February 2, 2024 (extended).

Games and immersive close...

If you squint, you can see a new type of pay TV bundle beginning to form.

The landmark carriage deal between The Walt Disney Co. and Charter Spectrum not only ended the blackout of Disney channels like ESPN and ABC for Spectrum customers, but it also created a new template for pay TV, one that other providers will surely seek to emulate.

As an executive at another media company with cable channels said, the industry was watching the dispute with “bated breath,” hoping that the worst-case scenario (Charter exiting the pay TV business) wouldn’t come to pass.

In the end, there was a deal to be cut. And while the worst-case scenario didn’t happen, everyone else in the TV business is reckoning with the fact that they will be next.

“Simply put, this agreement (at least for now), removes the worst-case scenario from the table — a potential dramatic...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on August 3rd, reviewing “Shortcomings,” directed by Randall Park in his feature debut, based on a graphic novel. In theaters beginning August 4th.

Rating: 2.5/5.0

Ben (Justin H. Min) is an aimless movie theater manager who is living with Miko (Ally Maki) in Berkeley, California, although their relationship is shaky. When Miko goes to New York City for an internship, Ben gets into a series of questionable relationships that doesn’t give him any satisfaction. When his gay best friend Alice (Sherry Cola) also moves to NYC, Ben decides to follow her there and spy on Miko. What he finds out has as much to do with himself than her.

”Shortcomings” is in theaters beginning August 4th. Featuring Justin H. Min, Ally Maki, Tavi Gevinson, Debby Ryan and Sherry Cola. Written by Adrian Tomine, from her graphic novel.

The Tribeca Festival on Tuesday announced its lineup of short narrative, documentary and animated films, as well as music videos, across 12 programs.

Today’s lineup for the festival, taking place this year from June 7-18, includes 62 shorts in competition, eight music videos and six special screening shorts, from a total of 91 filmmakers across 25 countries. The program, which was curated this year from a record-breaking 8,096 total submissions, includes 48 world premieres, three international premieres, two North American premieres, one U.S. premiere, and 22 New York premieres, with six alumni of festivals past to return this time around. Themes highlighted across the lineup include love, family relationships, LGBTQ+ stories, “Expressions of Black Freedom,” Latin America and resilience, to name a few.

Notable shorts to look out for include the Harry Holland-directed Last Call, starring Tom Holland; Alden Ehrenreich’s directorial debut, Shadow Brother Sunday; writer-director Alex Lawther’s For people in trouble,...

Tribeca Film Festival has set its 2023 TV and Now lineup, which will feature eight series premieres, two first looks at returning classics and eight selections in the Now showcase.

Max’s “Full Circle” from director Steven Soderbergh starring Dennis Quaid, Claire Danes, Timothy Olyphant, Zazie Beetz and Jharrel Jerome will premiere alongside HBO Sports Documentaries’ “The Golden Boy,” which follows the life of cultural icon Oscar De La Hoya, from executive producers Mark Wahlberg and Mario Lopez. AMC’s “The Walking Dead: Dead City” starring Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan will also premiere.

BET’s “Diarra from Detroit,” executive produced by Kenya Barris and Starz’s “Outlander” season seven starring Catriona Blafe and Sam Heughan will also feature along with Disney+’s “Choir” based on the “America’s Got Talent” finalists the Detroiit Youth Choir, A&e’s investigative documentary featuring Jay-Z “Exposing Parchman” and Paramount+’s “De La Calle” docuseries...

The 22nd edition of the Tribeca Festival unveiled a 2023 lineup with a record number of female helmers and heavy on films directed by actors like Chelsea Peretti’s First Time Female Director, John Slattery thriller Maggie Moore(s) with Tina Fey and Jon Hamm, David Duchovny’s Bucky F*cking Dent and Steve Buscemi’s The Listener.

Marvel also screens its first original documentary, Stan Lee by David Gelb, as the fest unspools June 7-18 in New York City. Also making an appearance: Downtown Owl by Lily Rabe and Hamish Linklater, and Eric Larue by Michael Shannon.

In all, 109 feature, narrative, documentary and animated films from 127 directors across 36 countries will showcase emerging and household names.

Tribeca is expanding its Midnight offering this year, and will also present its second annual Human/Nature award for environmental storytelling to world-premiering Common Ground by Rebecca and Josh Tickell.

Related music and live events...

Adele Bellis was waiting for a bus when she had acid thrown over her. She was 22 years old at the time. The man who did it had been paid by her ex-boyfriend, who said he wanted to stop her being attractive to other men. Bellis ran into the road as the corrosive substance burnt through her clothes. “I felt like I was melting to the ground,” she tells me today, nine years after her attack. “I remember looking down and my bra was melted. All my clothes were burnt and stuck to me.” Bellis’s ex received a life sentence, her attacker two years in jail, reduced from a 14-year sentence. She was left partially bald and lost her right ear.

When she went to hospital for treatment on the day of her attack, Bellis was one of four people being treated for acid burns. Alarmingly, the UK has the...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on January 12th, 2023, reviewing “Plane,” the latest action thriller featuring Gerard Butler. In theaters beginning January 13th.

Rating: 4.0/5.0

Butler portrays pilot Brodie Torrence who is assigned the Singapore route for Trailblazer Airlines. On a light load New Year’s Eve – only 14 passengers, including a killer being extradited name Gaspare (Mike Colter) – the pilot Brodie is forced in an electrical storm to crash land on a remote island.The land is ruled by an small time dictator-led crime gang (who mostly kidnap foreigners for ransom), and there is no way to get the passengers out. Enter Gaspare the killer, who happens also to be an ex-French Foreign Legion, and he teams up with Pilot Brodie to take on the island mafia, with the help of mercenaries hired under the table by the airline. Can they escape?...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on November 10th, 2022, reviewing “Aftersun,” a UK/USA co-production about father and daughter relationships, in select theaters now.

Rating: 3.0/5.0

An adult woman looks back at a significant vacation she made with her father as an 11-year-old, as they both were making transitions in their lives. Dad Calum (Paul Mescal) and daughter Sophie (Frankie Corio) travel to a beach and resort in Turkey and maneuver through their relationship while enjoying what vacationers do. Dad has a secret that Sophie is about to discover, and in consequence it alters their lives.

”Aftersun” is currently in select theaters. See local listings. Featuring Paul Mescal, Frankie Corio, Celia Rowlson-Hall and Harry Perdios. Written and directed by Charlotte Wells Rated “R”

Click Here for Patrick McDonald’s on-air review of “Aftersun”

Aftersun

Photo credit: A24

Click Here for Patrick...

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on November 10th, 2022, reviewing “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” the latest chapter in the Black Panther superhero saga, in theaters beginning November 11th.

Rating: 3.5/5.0

After the death of King T’Challa/Black Panther, the story focuses on the other citizens in the mythical African kingdom of Wakanda. The plot begins with T’Challa’s funeral, with his mother Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett) and sister Shuri (Letitia Wright) having to decide what to do next. That is answered when Namor (Tenoch Huerta), the Mayan Water King of Talokan, reveals himself to challenge Wakanda’s rights to the magic mineral Vibranium. This begins a conflict that needs resolution, but who will step up now that Black Panther is gone?

”Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” is in theaters beginning November 11th. Featuring Letitia Wright, Angela Bassett, Lupita Nyong’o, Tenoch Huertta and Danai Gurira.

Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Ben Thompson on Wbgr-fm on October 27th, 2022, reviewing “Till,” a narrative re-telling of the Emmett Till civil rights incident from 1955, in wide release beginning October 28th.

Rating: 4.0/5.0

Emmett Till (Jalyn Hall) was a happy-go-lucky teenager in the somewhat protected black belt of Chicago in 1955, raised by his mother Mamie (Danielle Deadwyler and grandmother Alma (Whoopi Goldberg). When Emmett takes a trip to Money, Mississippi, he is warned about their harsh treatment of blacks in the Jim Crow South, yet he can’t help but “wolf whistle” at a white woman store clerk. He is kidnapped by an angry white mob, shot and killed, and dumped in nearby river. When Mamie claims his body, she decides to show the world his bloated corpse to emphasize what they did, igniting worldwide outrage.

”Till” is in wide release beginning October 28th.