Released: Later in 2025 Director: Alex Russell Starring: Théodore Pellerin, Archie Madekwe, Havana Rose Liu, Daniel Zolghadri and Zack Fox “We want the same thing. I just want it more – and I’m better.” This chilling line, from the ambitious, obsessive Matthew (Théodore Pellerin) to rising pop star Oliver (Saltburn’s Archie Madekwe), is the dark […]
The post Berlinale 2025 – Lurker ★★★★★ appeared first on Movie Marker.
Many elements make a great movie, such as the music, directing, and writing, but we all know that the acting performances are one of the biggest reasons a movie succeeds. You could have a great script, direction, and all the right music, but if your actors are lackluster, your overall film will be too. A […]
The post Three Acting Performances I Will Never Be Able To Forget appeared first on Movie Marker.
Paul W.S. Anderson is an auteur like no other: best known for his videogame adaptations, Anderson has been at the forefront of digital formalism for the better part of the century. His works have garnered him a loyal fanbase, with Anderson’s early 2010s output becoming the catalyst for the emergence of the “vulgar auteurism” movement. […]
The post Interview With Director Paul W.S. Anderson (In The Lost Lands) appeared first on Movie Marker.
Released: 7th March 2025 Director: Lawrance Lamont Starring: SZA, Keke Palmer There is something undeniably magical about a film that doesn’t just tell a story but transports you to another era. The press screening I attended of One of Them Days did exactly that—whisking the audience and I straight back to the neon-lit, mixtape-wielding, carefree […]
The post One Of Them Days ★★★★ appeared first on Movie Marker.
Images courtesy of Sumerian Pictures
For over a century now since its inception, many generations have questioned the draw of professional wrestling. The consistent first impression follows folks impressed with the appealing physiques and athletic feats on display. The sticking point almost always arrives with the awareness of how the matches before them are scripted with predetermined victors. More often than not, once people accept that tenet and go along with the muscular melodrama, they’re hooked. Those unconvinced religate professional wrestling to a masculine soap opera and dismiss it. Queen of the Ring can greatly earn and help maintain that hook.
Directed by Ash Avildsen shedding his rocker ties from American Satan and taking a page from his father John’s sports movie vitae, Queen of the Ring takes viewers back to the 1930s when those arena-rattling crowds we see today for wrestling once only filled barns and the corners of traveling carnivals. Much like many rookie fans, the starstruck single mother and hayseed waitress Mildred Bliss, played by Emily Bett Rickards (greatly redeeming herself after recently being seen as the weakest link of Autumn and the Black Jaguar) was obsessed with the attraction from her first bodyslam. She steps forward to audition with and impress the local company’s lead wrestler and promoter Billy Wolfe (Josh Lucas, seasoned from his 2000s hey-day). With the tenuous permission of her mother Bertha (veteran TV actress Cara Buono of Mad Men and Stranger Things) and flutters of a smitten romance, Mildred leaves home to hit the road with Billy and his son G. Bill (Teen Wolf’s Tyler Posey).
Riding with Queen of the Ring is a trip into pure “rasslin’” in its carnival roots. Scripted theatricality meets circus freak oddity at times. Stunt coordinator Heath Hensley and wrestling choreographer Jett Jansen recreated the old-school wrestling style and put the many actresses in positions to succeed. Playing under the golden incandescent lights and into the lenses of cinematographer Andy Strahorn (TV’s Bel-Air and Lethal Weapon), they sure look great doing it. Giving all of the excitement a little heartland zip in Nick Pynn’s fiddle and a plucked string brigade of guitars, banjos, mandolins, and dobros by composer Aaron Gilhius (Bandit). Furthermore, Queen of the Ring slings the wide array of wrestling lingo for Mildred and other neophytes watching to learn. True fans will already know it, and probably find the vocabulary overused to a degree, but it’s all part of the fun.
Starting in the Great Plains and working for quarters, Billy Wolfe turns the renamed Mildred Burke—billed initially as The Kansas Cyclone–-into a skilled performer and a popular attraction that can outdraw her male counterparts, including the pre-”Gorgeous George” George Wagner (Adam Demos of A Perfect Pairing) in the states where women competing in wrestling was legal. Once Billy Wolfe teamed up with competing promoter Jack Pfefer (the rock-steady Walton Goggins), their stables grew to include the likes of Mae Young (Francesca Eastwood), Nell Stewart (Kelli Berglund, hopping from the Heels ring to this one), Babs Wingo (Damaris Lewis of Titans), Elvira Snodgrass (Marie Avgeropoulos of The 100), June Byers (Kailey “Kamille” Farmer), Clara Mortensen (current AEW women’s champion Toni “Toni Storm” Rossall), and Gladys Gillem (Daredevil’s Deborah Ann Woll).
The bright side of Queen of the Ring is steeped in its period-accurate production value. The venue recreations and location dressing—right down to the poster recreations—by production designer Molly Coffee and the art team (Willy’s Wonderland and The Time Capsule) are very impressive. For the actresses, the glam factor of these characters is granted by the lavish costuming of Sofija Mesicek (Tesla) and wardrobe supervisor Sara Stuhl (TV’s Blue Bloods) and the excellent hair and makeup work of Wildcat’s Trevor Thompson and Andrea Ahl. Matching their unprecedented earnings, the ladies look like a million bucks, and deservedly so for this picture of role models.
While the benefits grew exponentially through the next two decades for Mildred and the ladies, Queen of the Ring depicts the correlating dark side of this true story. Billy Wolfe was a well-documented cheat, womanizer, polygamist, and abuser. Their participation was still banned in many states. They were still seen as little more than “girls” and sex objects. Avildsen, adapting Jeff Leen’s The Queen of the Ring: Sex, Muscles, Diamonds, and the Making of an American Legend, was not shy about the notorious wrestling business’s ugly past.
Nevertheless, it all comes back to capturing its audience. Midway into the expansive Queen of the Ring, Walton Goggins’s pioneering promoter Jack Pfefer spells it all out best when he compares wrestling to theatre in this way:
“What we ask our wrestlers to put their bodies through in the ring is what we ask our fans to put their emotions through in their seats.”
LESSON #1: WRESTLING IS ANOTHER FORM OF THEATRE– He was spot on, and that holds true even in today’s mainstream incarnation of professional wrestling selling out arenas and thriving on television. Solid storytelling woven into a single wrestling match around centerpiece spots can send live audiences through the wringer in under ten short minutes, compared to a play or opera’s two hours. Longer endurance and higher stakes only amplify that frenzy and adoration. Moreover, with a deep roster of characters and their initiative to tour the world and bring their show to the people, the best wrestling promotions spread their pugilistic enchantment farther than theatre can ever reach.
LESSON #2: WRESTLING IS ANOTHER FORM OF STARDOM AND THE AMERICAN DREAM– Not to say it lightly, but for the performers themselves, their work and effort behind their characters is their own gainful pursuit of the American Dream. Wrestling was one way for determined women to shuck stereotypes and make something of themselves to be successful and proud of. To do so, they often turn the proverbial blood, sweat, and tears of earning respect and fame into literal form staining mats and floors. Their dreams had risks and prices, many of which were uncurbed and disproportionate during the antiquated era shown in Queen of the Ring.
LESSON #3: RESPECT THE FEMININE AND TOUGH– It is no coincidence that Queen of the Ring is making its splash during the month of the calendar hosting Women’s History Month. Lionizing the story of Mildred Burke, even with a fair varnish of softened sugarcoating, lionizes the legacy of women of professional wrestling. While labeled an exhibition of “grace, agility, and strength,” women worked hurt and underpaid for years, scraping for a spot and competing for time—often pitted detrimentally against each other. The film echoes the troubling and triumphant historical spine of a male-centered and still imperfect business that persisted far too long (until the past decade or so when women’s matches finally gained main event status) to recognize female talent and give them and the audience what they deserved. Avildsen’s movies that mightily.
The tried-and-true formula of sports movies like Queen of the Ring is not all that different from the storylines of good-versus-evil construed in professional wrestling itself. With their connective characters and outlandish personas, the confluence of performers, promoters, and bookers creates and builds the classic hero’s journey up to big, redemptive, and victorious moments. If anything, by mixing pertinent history with the dazzling kinetic action in the squared circle, Queen of the Ring multiplies all of those lofty heights of ambition and achievement. The movie is entertaining and engaging evidence the genre’s stand-up-and-cheer formula does not always need reinvention or recalibration, just more diverse and meaningful stories for new spotlights. When it’s all said and done, Queen of the Ring nailed the big fight feel in its 1954 climax that bookends the film, and they put on a barnburner.
LOGO DESIGNED BY MEENTS ILLUSTRATED (#1286)
from Review Blog https://ift.tt/wfkGBLI
Images courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios
Before this 21st-century era of “prestige television” where major film stars come down from the multiplexes to dominate the booming offerings and paychecks of steady TV gigs, the pipeline of stardom used to go the other direction. From Leonardo DiCaprio and George Clooney to the consistent well of Saturday Night Live, actors and actresses getting big breaks and proving themselves on television launched them to the movies. In the 2020s, it’s nice to see that still happen from time to time. Thanks to the springboards of Phoebe Dynevor, Regé-Jean Page, and especially Jonathan Bailey surging out of Wicked and into a Jurassic World summer blockbuster, Netflix’s steamy series Bridgerton appears to be a new and exciting wellspring. For Amazon’s Picture This, it’s Simone Ashley’s turn, and she takes it.
Fresh from playing Bailey’s love interest in the two most recent seasons of Bridgerton, Simone Ashley toplines this British romantic comedy adapted from the little-seen 2024 Australian film Five Blind Dates. From that movie, Picture This traded a tea shop for a portrait studio, shifted the setting to suburban London, and, most exuberantly, infused Indian culture to match its lead and director Prarthana Mohan (The Miseducation of Bindu). That blending—promising freshness and uniqueness—results in an able, yet formulaic rom-com where the best part about it is its earmarked lead.
Simone Ashley is Pia Pia, a brilliant photographer living above her studio called the Ninth Mandela. With a distaste for low-ball work, the Ninth Mandela specializes in portraits and larger projects, eschewing simple services like passport photos. That lack of regular foot traffic and business has the bills piling up and Pia’s one employee and loyal friend Jay (Luke Fetherston of Almost Never) worried. The one reliable project on the horizon is being able to provide portrait work for the wedding of Pia’s younger sister Sonal (TV actress Anoushka Chadha).
However, this is not a wedding of complete jubilation in Picture This for Pia. As the older, unmarried sister of the family pushing 30, her unhitched and fiercely independent lifestyle is met with constant disapproval from both Sonal and their divorced mother Laxmi (Sindhu Vee of Matlida: The Musical, playing Simone Ashley’s mother for the second time after a brief stint on Netflix’s Sex Education). To Pia, marriage–especially the arranged and matched variety of her family’s culture–is an unfair social binding that will take her away from her artistic career. As it stands, she’s not wrong, until a little twinkle of ethnic superstition strikes.
At a family gathering, Pia receives a prediction from a guru that she will encounter peak career success and find her true love within the next five dates. Upon receiving this omen, leave it to a meddlesome mother to meddle as Laxmi sets up a series of matchmaking dates for Pia. Adding even greater drama is the fact that Pia’s college ex Charlie (Hero Fiennes Tiffin of the After film series) is back in town, successful, and mindful about the proverbial “one who got away.”
LESSON #1: MOVIE GURUS ARE ALWAYS RIGHT– True to movie law, it’s only a matter of time before the guru will be proven right in Picture This, even if it’s after a series of twists, turns, and false finishes. While it’s true romantic comedies from every part of their world have their variety of cinematic pixie dust that enliven the serendipity of their plots, part of the modernity and flair sought by Picture This is hampered by the old hat of matchmaking and arranged marriages, which have been done to death in many all-to-similar movies. While it greatly counts as a spotlight of representation, there’s a point one sighs rather than counts the minutes to the inevitable Bollywood-style dance scene and other tropes.
From this prophecy dropping at the end of the first act, Picture This unfolds into a gauntlet of comedic dating scenes involving Pia and the finalist suitors secured by Laxmi. These scenes shared with a rich heir (“Chabuddy G” personality Asim Chaudhry), a nebbish coworker of Laxmi (Nikesh Patel of London Has Fallen), and a guitar-plucking yoga instructor (Ted Lasso’s Phil Dunster) allow Simone Ashley to play off of different personalities and screen partners. Quick sparks of romance arrive to give the actress a desirable glow, only for a quirky and occasionally hilarious dealbreaker trait to emerge in each candidate—especially with Dunster’s zen doofus—that requires her to shift to reviled reactions of dismissal.
LESSON #2: WHEN WERE YOU LAST IN LOVE?-- Through each of these bombed dates, the trusty Jay is the constantly present buddy pressing her this key question both in matters of romance and artistic success. He knows Pia doesn’t want the traditional shackles of predetermined couplings and a boring, unfulfilling day job. Still, when Pia’s answer to the question continues to be Charlie—and the fact that he is present, available, and contrite for past mistakes—makes the most logical and obvious foregone conclusion of Picture This only a matter of time. If anything, the biggest opposition to Pia’s success and happiness is revealed to be her self-centered stances, which the film is confident enough to call into question and not gloss over.
LESSON #3: GIVE AN EMERGING STAR AN EASY WIN– The clear goal here in Picture This is to make Simone Ashley look good for the leap from television to movies. Without question, she has every “it” factor necessary and gets to display them radiantly in the film. On the rom-com side, it’s quite the performative wringer between multiple rapid-fire Meet Cutes and face-saving exit strategies through those blind dates, and the actress never breaks a sweat. Even the simple measure of watching her cuss her way around the King’s English to be a casual, colorful, and contemporary woman released from Bridgerton’s prim corsets counts as an easy win.
It is a shame the rest of Picture This around its chosen new star could not equal her level of vividness. Luke Fetherston is a very supportive presence as Jay and Hero Fiennes Tiffin has the prerequisite external smolder to be the ideal catch in a movie like this. Both actors deserve their own launching pads, but Fetherston’s still saddled with too many of the usual Gay Best Friend motifs and Tiffin’s Charlie is, frankly, very dull next to Simone Ashley’s zest. No feet are being swept and that lack of extra energy shows.
Nevertheless, with luck, Simone Ashley isn’t going anywhere. Every dynamic performer worth their salt did their due diligence to put a few romances on their resumes as proof of broader appeal on their way to bigger things. More excellent roles and opportunities should come Simone Ashley’s way. Someday, audiences will look back at Picture This as the early proof and precursor of that charismatic appeal.
LOGO DESIGNED BY MEENTS ILLUSTRATED (#1285)
from Review Blog https://ift.tt/483IRlt
Image: https://ift.tt/gl6FbUy
Longer days and blooming landscapes—now’s the time to plan your next nature-filled escape
In spite of what many might believe, some of the most breathtaking landscapes ever captured on film aren’t the work of Hollywood cine-magic—they’re real places, teeming with wildlife, rich ecosystems, and cultural significance. From the rolling hills of England’s Lake District in Star Wars: The Force Awakens to the prehistoric beauty of Hawaii’s Kualoa Ranch in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, these iconic filming locations prove that nature itself is the ultimate set designer.
“Whether you’re a film enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or simply looking for a travel experience that blends cinematic history with natural beauty, these destinations offer a unique way to step into the world of your favorite films,” says deer fencing expert Doug O’Connor, from DeerFencing.com.
As travelers start planning their spring and summer getaways, Doug and the team at DeerFencing.com reveal the ten must-visit destinations that have served as the backdrop for some of the highest-grossing films of the 21st century. ng
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lake District National Park is a mesmerizing blend of lakes, rolling moorlands, and ancient woodlands. This breathtaking landscape became a key filming location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, helping to transport audiences into the immersive world of a galaxy far, far away.
The film generated $2.068 billion, making it the highest-grossing movie on this list. The Lake District's rugged terrain and mist-covered peaks lent an air of mysticism to the film’s battle sequences.
Beyond its cinematic role, this national park offers some of the UK’s best hiking trails, historic literary connections (home to Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter), and rich biodiversity, including red deer and ospreys.
“A walk through the Lake District is a scenic retreat as well as an enriching journey through the landscapes that shaped both literature and cinema,” says Doug.
Standing at 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak is one of the most famous summits in North America, offering an alpine tundra ecosystem, dense forests, and steep, winding roads that made it an ideal location for the high-octane action of Furious 7.
The film, which earned $1.515 billion, capitalized on Pikes Peak’s jaw-dropping switchbacks and dizzying altitude to create some of the franchise’s most thrilling driving sequences. Unlike other locations on this list, Pikes Peak does not hold national park status and is under threat from wildfires and increasing human development, raising concerns about its long-term preservation.
Despite this, the peak remains an adventure hub for hiking, biking, and its world-famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as “The Race to the Clouds”.
“The breathtaking ascent, whether by car or on foot, mirrors the kind of daring spirit that films like Furious 7 embody—pushing limits at every turn,” says Doug.
Kualoa Ranch, a 4,000-acre expanse of lush valleys, dense forests, and flowing streams, has become synonymous with cinematic world-building, particularly as the primary filming location for Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.
The film, which grossed $1.308 billion, used the ranch’s untouched beauty to bring audiences back into the thrilling chaos of Isla Nublar. The towering cliffs and rolling greenery made it one of the most visually striking locations, reinforcing the idea of a land lost in time.
Unlike many other locations on this list, Kualoa Ranch is privately owned rather than a designated conservation area, yet it remains a fiercely protected natural space. Visitors can explore its stunning landscapes through ATV tours, horseback riding, and even guided excursions to specific film locations.
Doug O’Connor, spokesperson for DeerFencing.com, comments:
“The magic of cinema has long transported audiences to far-off landscapes, but many of these breathtaking locations exist in the real world, waiting to be explored. From the misty valleys of Kualoa Ranch to the dramatic peaks of Pikes Peak, these wildlife-rich destinations are not only iconic on screen but also vital ecosystems worth protecting. With spring around the corner and travel season approaching, now is the perfect time to plan a trip that combines adventure with appreciation for nature’s wonders.
“Exploring these stunning locations reminds us of the deep connection between storytelling and the natural world. Seeking out these cinematic landscapes lets travelers enjoy both the magic of film and the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet.”
If you choose to use this information, please add credit with a link to DeerFencing.com website (https://www.deerfencing.com). This will help us continue to provide you with quality content.
DeerFencing.com specializes in providing high-quality, nearly invisible deer fencing solutions designed to effectively exclude or contain deer. They offer a range of products including poly and metal deer fences, complete fence kits, gates, posts, and accessories catering to both residential and commercial needs. They assist customers in selecting the appropriate fencing materials for their specific projects with over 30 years’ experience.
This study was conducted selecting a pool of films from Box Office Mojo’s top 100 highest-grossing worldwide movies per year from 2000 to 2024, excluding animated films. Filming locations for each movie were sourced from Movie-Locations.com and cross-referenced with the World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA) from Protected Planet to ensure that only films shot in wildlife or preserved locations were considered.
After processing approximately 2,500 films and analyzing around 1,700 filming locations, a final dataset of 200 movies with verified wildlife filming sites was established. The top 10 locations were then ranked according to the highest worldwide box office earnings of the associated films. Additional data, such as ecosystem type and conservation status, were sourced through Google searches and relevant environmental databases.
While every effort was made to ensure accuracy, limitations in available data and algorithmic constraints may introduce minor inaccuracies. All data used in this study were retrieved as of February 22, 2025.
from Review Blog https://ift.tt/XCKsZa7
Released: 7 March 2025 Director: Bong Joon-ho Cast: Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo, Toni Collette & Steven Yeun Poor Mickey Barnes (The Batman’s Robert Pattinson): when we are first introduced to him in Bong Joon-ho’s first film since the award-winning Parasite, his life has been nothing but pain. He’s an expendable, escaping his destitute […]
The post Mickey 17 ★★★★ appeared first on Movie Marker.
Being able to relax is hugely important if you want to make sure you are living a full life and taking care of yourself as well as you can. If you are keen to look after your mental health in particular, you will find that a good approach towards relaxation is going to be vital. The good news is that you can always learn how to relax more fully and truly, and doing so could be one of the best things you have ever done for yourself.
With that in mind, in this post we are going to take a look at some of the things you might want to do and bear in mind when it comes to learning how to relax. If you can do even some of the following, you are bound to find that it will make a difference, so let’s see what you might want to think about here. Learning to relax could be the work of a lifetime, but it doesn’t have to be if you follow these tips.
It’s really important to make sure that you understand why we generally fail to relax, as this will lie the secret to how to turn things around. It’s amazing what a difference this really can make, and in just knowing that you are able to fully relax, you’ll find that you learn a lot. So why is it that we generally struggle to relax as much as we could? It might actually be for a number of different reasons and causes.
For instance, very often it’s down to a sense of having to be over-productive all the time. This is something that many of us feel thanks to the way that the world is ordered, but the truth is that being busy all the time is not the best thing for you. You need your downtime, and it is not virtuous to work as much as you possibly can just for the sake of it.
There is also something known as chronic stress, which is when the body gets stuck in fight or flight mode, and this obviously means that you are not going to feel relaxed. If you have that, combined with a post-capitalist guilt around stress, you are bound to find yourself struggling to relax.
You may also be merely overstimulated - many of us are, and it’s a major cause of fatigue as well as not being able to calm down and relax. So it’s something you are certainly going to find really important to consider if you want to try and relax more effectively. All of this will also require a decent amount of awareness, because you need to know in the first case that you are currently not relaxing as well as you could or should.
So what are some of the things you can actually do to relax more fully and effectively, and how might you start to make this more a part of your life?
Very often, the best attempts at relaxing will begin - and end - with relaxing the body itself. If you are able to keep the body as relaxed as possible, you’ll find that the mind usually follows suit. The same is also true in reverse, but most people find it easier, most of the time, to relax the body first. As it happens, there are countless ways you can do this, and you should find yourself being able to do it relatively easily and simply all in all.
One very strong technique for fully relaxing the body is something known as progressive muscle relaxation, or PMR. With this technique, you effectively tense and relax different muscle groups in the body, beginning at the toes and working up until you have done the whole body. This is incredibly effective, and usually means that you will be very relaxed at the end of it.
You might also find breathwork to be helpful. With this, you take some purposeful, deep breaths, and this signals the body to relax. You might try the 4-7-8 technique, or perhaps box breathing - where you breathe in for four counts, hold for four counts, breath out for four and hold for four. This can help your body to thoroughly relax, and it’s quite incredible how well it really works.
There are lots of other things that can help too. You might want to take up a yoga routine or engage in some daily stretch work, for instance. These are all the kinds of things that are going to help your body to relax even further, and it means that you can loosen your tight muscles and improve your circulation considerably. At the same time, a little bit of self-massage (or booking in for the occasional professional massage) can work wonders too.
Sometimes just taking a warm bath or having a long, luxurious shower can help. It’s all about making sure that you are getting your body nice and relaxed as thoroughly and deeply as you can, and doing this regularly enough that the effect really takes hold. If you can do that, you’ll find that you are much more likely to be able to relax fully and for it to really make a difference not just to your body, but to your mind as well.
That being said, it’s also worth knowing what you can do to relax your mind in its own right too.
In many respects, people often find relaxing the mind to be more of a challenge than relaxing the body, and it’s certainly true that you might need to think about it in a slightly different way. In one way, however, thinking is very much the problem, and you’ll find that there is a lot to be said for simply trying not to think too much. This doesn’t mean that you can force your mind to stop, but it does mean you might want to try and calm it a little. A lot of this comes down to some useful techniques you can try anywhere, which we will look at some examples of below.
Overall, the main thing that you might want to try out is mindfulness and meditation. The more fully aware you are of the present moment, especially what is happening within you at any time, the better. You will feel much more able to deal with whatever is happening around you too, and it’s going to mean that you are a lot more likely to relax fully. This works best if you have a regular practice of it, so you might want to set up a regular time to meditate and to be mindful. Then, before you know it, you will find yourself naturally and organically being a lot more mindful in your daily life. And this is linked to very much having lower levels of stress, so it’s well worth making sure you are doing this.
There are however lots of other ways to relax the mind, and it’s not all about meditation and mindfulness. You might also find yourself wanting to get your thoughts out as best as you can. A good way to do that is journaling, which is a process that a lot of people are going to find really helpful, and one which again you benefit from most if you are doing it regularly. A regular journaling practice is therefore a fantastic thing to be able to do, and something you might want to start up as soon as possible.
In general, it is also helpful to try and limit the amount of stimulation you are experiencing in your daily life. It’s a good idea to try out some moments of silence, and ideally these moments will be regular - no screens or music or anything else, but just stillness on its own. You might perhaps add in something small like a game of cards or minesweeper or something, but generally keeping it minimal is the key here. You will find that this helps you greatly in being able to keep your mind as relaxed as you want it to be.
It can also help if you engage in some kind of flow activity. That might include a hobby like playing an instrument or cooking, or reading or drawing. Whatever it is, just the fact of being in a flow state can be really good for you, and is the kind of thing you might want to pursue in your daily life more and more.
However you do it, quietening and looking after the mind is a great way to relax more, and you will find it really important to make sure you are doing this.
Those are just some of the things that you might want to think about when it comes to learning how to fully and truly relax. As long as you have done those regularly, it’s going to help for sure.
from Review Blog https://ift.tt/PDVT762
Image: https://ift.tt/RO7xMfr
by Nancy Fernandez
The movie industry has always embraced new technologies to tell stories in more engaging ways. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this evolution, transforming how films are written, produced, and experienced. Let's explore how AI is reshaping the cinematic landscape, from crafting scripts to creating stunning visual effects.
Traditionally, coming up with fresh story ideas has been a task for human writers. Now, AI can assist in this creative process. By analyzing countless existing scripts and narratives, AI tools can suggest new plotlines, character developments, and dialogues. For instance, AI models trained on vast amounts of text can generate unique story ideas that writers can further develop. This collaboration between human creativity and machine assistance opens up new possibilities for storytelling.
Beyond generating ideas, AI can help refine scripts. Tools powered by AI can analyze a screenplay's structure, pacing, and character interactions, offering suggestions to improve coherence and engagement. This doesn't replace the writer but acts as a smart assistant, providing insights that might not be immediately apparent. Such tools can help identify plot holes, suggest character enhancements, and even predict how audiences might react to certain story elements.
Selecting the right actors is crucial for a film's success. AI can analyze factors like an actor's past performances, audience appeal, and even social media presence to assist in casting decisions. By processing this data, AI provides insights that help producers choose actors who best fit the roles, potentially increasing a film's chances of success.
Finding the perfect filming location can be time-consuming and costly. AI simplifies this by analyzing scripts and suggesting suitable locations based on scene requirements. It can also assess logistical factors like accessibility and cost, making the scouting process more efficient.
Traditionally, many visual effects are added after filming. AI is changing this by enabling real-time effects during production. For example, AI-driven software can instantly render backgrounds or creatures, allowing actors and directors to see a more complete version of a scene as it's being filmed. This immediate feedback can lead to more natural performances and creative decisions on the spot.
AI-powered cameras can track movements and adjust settings automatically to capture the best shots. By analyzing the scene and lighting conditions, these smart cameras ensure consistent quality, reducing the need for reshoots and saving time on set.
Editing is a meticulous process where scenes are selected and arranged to tell the story effectively. AI can assist editors by quickly organizing footage, suggesting cuts, and even creating initial rough edits. By recognizing patterns and pacing, AI helps streamline the editing process, allowing editors to focus more on the creative aspects.
Creating realistic visual effects (VFX) is both challenging and expensive. AI simplifies this by generating high-quality effects more efficiently. For instance, AI can simulate natural phenomena like fire, water, or explosions, making them look more realistic without the need for extensive manual work. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also reduces production costs.
AI has made it possible to de-age actors or even resurrect characters digitally. By analyzing past footage and photos, AI can create younger versions of actors or generate lifelike digital characters. This technology allows for more creative storytelling possibilities, such as showing characters at different ages without relying on makeup or different actors.
Understanding what audiences want is key to a film's success. AI analyzes data from social media, past viewing habits, and market trends to predict what themes, genres, or actors will attract viewers. This information helps studios make informed decisions about which projects to greenlight and how to position them in the market.
AI enables personalized marketing strategies by tailoring promotions to individual preferences. For example, AI can create targeted advertisements that appeal to specific demographics, increasing the likelihood of attracting the right audience to the theater or streaming platform.
While AI offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges and ethical questions.
As AI takes on tasks traditionally performed by humans, there's a concern about job losses in areas like editing, VFX, and even writing. It's essential for the industry to find a balance where AI enhances human work rather than replaces it.
Relying too heavily on AI could lead to formulaic content, as machines might replicate patterns from existing data without true creativity. Ensuring that human creativity remains at the core of filmmaking is crucial to preserve the art form's authenticity.
Using AI to create digital replicas of actors raises questions about consent and rights. Actors must have control over how their likeness is used, and clear guidelines are needed to prevent misuse.
The integration of AI into the movie industry is still in its early stages, but its impact is growing rapidly.
The future likely holds a collaborative relationship between AI and filmmakers. AI can handle repetitive or data-intensive tasks, allowing humans to focus on creative decision-making. This partnership can lead to more innovative and diverse storytelling.
AI opens up possibilities for interactive and personalized films where the storyline adapts based on viewer choices or preferences. This could lead to a more immersive and engaging viewing experience.
Aspiring filmmakers can use AI tools to learn and experiment with different aspects of production, democratizing the filmmaking process and allowing more voices to be heard.
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the movie industry, offering tools that enhance creativity, efficiency, and audience engagement. From assisting in scriptwriting to creating stunning visual effects, AI is becoming an integral part of filmmaking. However, it's essential to navigate the challenges and ethical considerations carefully to ensure that technology serves to enrich the art of cinema, keeping human creativity at its heart. As AI continues to evolve, its role in the movie industry will undoubtedly expand, leading to new possibilities in storytelling and production.
from Review Blog https://ift.tt/81KNJki
Released: 2 May 2025 Director: Natja Brunckhorst Starring: Sandra Hüller, Max Riemelt, Ronald Zehrfeld Sandra Hüller had an awards season to remember in 2023/24, leading the Oscar winning Anatomy of A Fall and with a supporting role in The Zone of Interest. These two films couldn’t have been further apart with Hüller excelling in both […]
The post Glasgow Film Festival 2025 – Two To One ★★★ appeared first on Movie Marker.
Image: https://ift.tt/fzLO0Rc
Online games have become such a global phenomenon that they get players glued to them for hours. But what is the hidden secret? Their features keep players really hooked, entertained, and drawn again.
Their social connection, the evolving challenges, and so on make many elements of online games. While talking about the top compulsive features of online games, let us explore some.
A key reason people get hooked on online games is their ability to transport players into entirely new worlds. Engaging storylines, dynamic environments, and interactive gameplay create an immersive and thrilling experience. For those seeking adventure, they can try DG Club App, which offers an exciting plot and mysterious challenges that keep players eager to explore and uncover secrets.
Contemporary online games seamlessly blend narrative depth with player choice, ensuring that every gaming experience feels unique. Whether diving into an open-world adventure or engaging in a survival battle, the immersive gameplay guarantees that no two experiences will ever be the same.
Most of them encourage players to sharpen their skills competitively since competition forms the basis of many games. True player-versus-player competition provides that extra unpredictable thrill to the game experience.
Unlocking new weapons or skins or possibly exclusive content gives players a sense of accomplishment. Games that have difficulty and progression balance thus will create a loop pleasing enough that players will spend hours trying to improve their performance and gain new benefits.
The whole yardsticks of online games are social. The game itself is fun; it becomes funner when it's played with a friend or two, even with strangers, collaborating in some multiplayer mode, and strategy, teamwork, and cooperation among the players keep them glued to the game.
Text and voice chats help players connect, and brainstorm on strategy, and sometimes friendships form beyond the game. As if those online communities weren't enough, of course, at times, they will extend to forums, social media groups, and sometimes streaming platforms, instead creating a sense of "community." That cool social interfacing with games makes them no longer just games, but something like that -social spaces.
New content is constantly being released by games over time, and new updates keep updating the games. Developers keep rolling out updates, seasonal events, and expansion packs just to keep players excited about what might be next in store. They would not cause stagnation and thus would keep players returning to such things as new maps, characters, missions, or even game modes.
Live-service games like Fortnite, Apex Legends, Genshin Impact, and so many others have managed to do this pride. The updates keep the game continuously happening -what new feature will arrive, which only makes it all the more interesting now for long-term investment.
Players love having control over their gaming experience. Character skins, weapon modifications, and base-building mechanics are examples of customization features that add an extra touch of personal flavour to games. Besides customizing the looks, the ability to customize avatars, clothing, and gear enhances immersion and allows players to express their own distinct styles.
Visual customization is celebrated; beyond that, those games are really engaging where players can carve their own paths, whether through choosing story paths or adjusting skill sets.
Open-world games provide limitless choices. There could be a hundred ways to weave an open-world experience: travelling to interesting locales, finding hidden treasures, and completing side quests. Open-world games keep inciting the curiosity of players and surprise them with puzzles and challenges.
The sandbox elements only enhance the experience. Building, shaping, or providing fun in-game experiences makes players feel more connected to the game. Such freedom helps keep the audience engaged for longer.
Online games are entertaining for hours because of their immersive nature, competition, social interaction, and content updates. Highly engaging games evolve, allow personalization, and inspire creativity among players. Be it handling a heart-pounding game story, conflicting with fellow players, or through timely games the best online games make sure that the gamer never runs short of reasons to continue playing.
from Review Blog https://ift.tt/cjk1V8x
Image: https://ift.tt/EgViMqN
by Kevin Gardner
Movies about lawyers have long been a staple of the film industry, capturing the intense drama, ethical dilemmas, and compelling courtroom battles that characterize the legal profession. These films often provide a window into the intricacies of law, showcasing both the triumphs and the challenges that legal professionals face in their careers. From thrilling courtroom dramas to character-driven stories about the pursuit of justice, these movies have the power to entertain while offering thought-provoking commentary on the legal system.
Lawyers, with their complex moral compasses and involvement in high-stakes cases, are perfect protagonists for films. Their work requires a delicate balance between upholding justice, navigating ethical challenges, and working within the sometimes flawed legal system. This dynamic makes them ideal characters for storytelling. Whether the focus is on criminal defense, corporate law, or civil rights cases, the narrative often explores deep questions about fairness, truth, and the law's ability to deliver justice.
One of the most compelling aspects of these films is the intellectual and emotional tension that arises during courtroom battles. These films frequently build toward a climactic trial, where the lawyer's skills in persuasion, logic, and strategy are put to the ultimate test. The result is a mixture of suspense, drama, and often, moral reflection that resonates with audiences.
A few standout films that delve into the world of law and lawyers are particularly memorable for their engaging storytelling and iconic performances. One such film is To Kill a Mockingbird, based on Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Gregory Peck’s portrayal of Atticus Finch, a lawyer defending an innocent black man in the racially segregated South, is a masterclass in ethics, empathy, and integrity. The film explores themes of racial injustice, moral courage, and the lawyer’s role as a champion for the vulnerable.
Another notable film is A Few Good Men, in which Tom Cruise plays a military lawyer who uncovers a conspiracy while defending two Marines accused of murder. The film’s famous line, "You can't handle the truth," captures the intensity and moral complexity at the heart of this courtroom drama. A Few Good Men explores the notion of duty, honor, and the consequences of blindly following orders.
For a more modern example, The Verdict features Paul Newman as an alcoholic, down-on-his-luck lawyer who takes on a medical malpractice case. The film examines redemption, personal responsibility, and the idea that a lawyer’s worth isn’t just measured by their past failures but by the risks they are willing to take in pursuit of justice.
Films about lawyers often involve dramatic legal battles over personal injury or accidents, exploring the complex issues surrounding compensation, negligence, and accountability. These types of movies can bring attention to the broader societal impacts of personal injury cases and the legal strategies employed to seek justice for victims.
In many movies about lawyers, a personal injury attorney plays a central role in seeking justice for those wronged by accidents, negligence, or corporate malfeasance. Many films highlight the important work of personal injury attorneys in protecting individuals who have been harmed. These movies often examine the balance between the financial aspects of the legal profession and the ethical obligations lawyers have to their clients.
Movies like The Rainmaker or Michael Clayton (in which George Clooney plays a corporate lawyer who is forced to confront his own moral dilemmas) highlight the role of personal injury lawyers and the importance of representing clients whose lives have been forever altered by accidents. In these films, the legal battle is not just about financial compensation, but about standing up for what is right, even when the odds are stacked against the victim.
While personal injury attorneys are not always the central focus of every legal film, they often represent the archetype of the legal professional who uses the law as a tool for justice, particularly for those who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongdoing of others.
Movies about lawyers continue to be popular because they strike a deep chord with audiences. They offer viewers a sense of justice, drama, and sometimes hope, as lawyers navigate moral dilemmas and seek justice for the wronged. These films provide insights into the legal system, showing the complexities of cases, the ethical decisions that legal professionals face, and the profound impact that the law can have on individual lives.
While these movies often focus on high-stakes drama and fictionalized versions of legal battles, they also offer real-world lessons about justice, fairness, and the power of the legal profession. For those in the legal industry, these films serve as a reminder of the importance of advocacy, the complexities of the legal system, and the role that lawyers play in shaping society’s understanding of right and wrong.
Released: 19 March 2025 Director: Paul Dugdale Starring: Hans Zimmer, Christopher Nolan, Denis Villeneuve, Jerry Bruckheimer, Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Billie Eilish, Pharrell Williams and Johnny Marr This multi Academy-award winning composer is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and beloved composers today, with his epic and emotive scores truly shaping the landscape of film and […]
The post Hans Zimmer & Friends: Diamond In The Desert ★★★★★ appeared first on Movie Marker.
Does Demi and co. truly have The Substance to go all the way? Today… Could this be the greatest day of Sean Baker + Mikey Madison’s lives? Movie Marker team members Darryl Griffiths, Rehna Azim, Clotilde Chinnici, Martin Richmond, Chris Connor + Latoya Austin talk all things Oscars 2025, in this in-depth discussion. Enjoy! x
The post Team MM: Oscars 2025 Discussion appeared first on Movie Marker.
Oscars Sunday is quickly approaching, and there are a thousand ways to wager on Hollywood’s biggest night. You already have the odds for 20+ Academy Awards categories, but now we have the juicy prop bets to accompany. BetOnline.ag has created a menu of eight Oscars props, which include topics such as Kayne West, worst dressed, Conan O'Brien and curse words.
Check them all out below because some are pretty amusing!
Oscars odds are subject to change and will be updated in real-time on this page: https://www.betonline.ag/sportsbook/futures-and-props/entertainment/oscars
Will Kanye West make a red-carpet appearance?
Yes: 2/1
No: 1/3
What will be primary color of Ariana Grande red carpet dress?
Pink: 2/3
Grey/Silver: 3/1
Blue: 4/1
Green: 6/1
White: 6/1
Yellow: 7/1
Gold: 8/1
Who will be named "worst outfit" by DailyMail.com?
Ariana Grande: 3/2
Megan Thee Stallion: 5/1
Demi Moore: 6/1
Kristen Stewart: 7/1
Zendaya: 8/1
Timothee Chalamet: 10/1
Cynthia Erivo: 10/1
Zoe Saldana: 10/1
Felicity Jones: 10/1
Billie Eilish: 10/1
DaVine Joy Randolph: 10/1
Lady Gaga: 10/1
Angelina Jolie: 10/1
Scarlett Johansson: 10/1
Matt Stone: 12/1
Trey Parker: 12/1
Anne Hathaway: 12/1
What will be length of Conan O'Brien's opening monologue?
Over/Under: 6.5 minutes
Who will be mentioned first in Conan O'Brien's opening monologue?
Donald/Trump: 1/2
Elon Musk: 3/2
Will any recipient be censored during acceptance speech?
Yes: 2/3
No: 1/1
Who will the Best Actor thank first?
The Academy: 2/5
Director: 3/1
Husband/Wife/Partner: 6/1
God: 7/1
Mother: 12/1
Viagra: 50/1
Who will the Best Actress thank first?
The Academy: 2/5
Director: 3/1
Husband/Wife/Partner: 7/1
God: 15/2
Mother: 12/1
Ozempic: 50/1
from Review Blog https://ift.tt/S9ezvHI
