LOVE. WEDDING. REPEAT.
Starring Sam Claflin and Olivia Munn, this repulsive rom-com cordially invites us to a wedding that feels never ending – just like the dick joke that should’ve been put away after the first sad attempt at a laugh. The characters are charmless and the comedy is cringeworthy. What director Dean Craig does have going for him is a beautiful location and an intriguing idea – with the latter turning sour in a hurry. By the time the movie finally decides to replay different scenarios, there’s no one willing to sit through that cut-rate ceremony again. Not even in quarantine.
UNCORKED
In this terrific, tender story about a young man who must choose between taking over the family BBQ business or pursue his passion of being a master sommelier – writer/director Prentice Penny pours a sweet and savory blend of family loyalty and controlling your own destiny. Filled to the brim with a wonderful cast, the movie simply wouldn’t be the same without Niecy Nash and Courtney B. Vance. The scenes they share with each other, as well as with their charming leading man, Mamoudou Athie, are relatable and poignant. It’s all about dream chasing, the dedication it requires, and wanting the support from loved ones. You’ll enjoy the taste of this whether you’re a wine lover or not.
TIGERTAIL
In his directorial debut, Alan Yang tells an intimate immigration story of a Taiwanese man in search of the American dream. But once found, he punishes himself and his family by living a life of what-ifs and lost love. Going back and forth from Pin-Jui’s past of finding his soulmate and leaving her behind to the present where he’s divorced and has a strained relationship with his daughter – the story does its best to stay gentle and tender hearted. It contains moving moments where hardly a word is spoken, where the pain is clear to see from the sacrifices made and the regrets that followed. If not for the unevenness and sluggish pace, this could have been a powerfully poignant viewing experience.
COFFEE & KAREEM
Thanks to this crappy and clownish Cop and a Half rip-off, Spenser Confidential isn’t the worst thing I’ve seen on Netflix this year. What an accomplishment. As not only the star but producer, Ed Helms should be embarrassed. The action is pathetic and the comedy is beyond obnoxious. Having each of your main stars curse out one another is funny enough for director Michael Dowse, but not for the those of us regrettably watching it. Taraji P. Henson and Betty Gilpin deserve a whole hell of a lot better, and newcomer Terrence Little Gardenhigh gets to say filthy things, so he’s probably having the time of his life. The audience on the other hand…far from it.
HOW TO FIX A DRUG SCANDAL
Two drug lab chemists, Annie Dookhan and Sonja Farak, turn Massachusetts upside down as they both tamper with evidence concerning drug cases that would not only impact the state, but more importantly, thousands of lives that were sent to prison. In this four episode docu-series from Erin Lee Carr, it clearly presents how the criminal justice system fails us when needed the most. At the same time, it is somewhat sympathetic to these women – especially Farak and her battle with depression since a teenager. But it’s hard to feel sorry for any of them as unnecessary damage is caused, and as those individuals in powerful positions choose to do the wrong thing – it only pisses you off more.
This series has elements of intrigue, but the interest is limited. It’s not as gripping nor as wild as other Netflix series we have seen. Regrettably, what is revealed here isn’t too surprising as the cover-ups and corruption is nothing new. What is most riveting is defense attorney Luke Ryan and his unyielding search for the truth. He’s the hero of our story. His compassion for his clients only causes us to love him more.
L.A.ORIGINALS
Changing the streets and culture of the City of Angels through astonishing art, Estevan Oriol and Mister Cartoon take an enticing trip down memory lane so we can respect their ever-evolving talents. As the director, Oriol takes the scenic view, drifting from hip-hop, tattoos, and photography to graffiti, movies, and low riders. All are things they have made their mark on that is assuredly impressive for anyone watching. Though none of it really adds up to anything more than a sensational sizzle reel for the two bros’ business endeavors. Oriol and Cartoon hands down deserve all the credit in the world for what they have created. Yet, this bustling documentary gives us too much of what they do and not enough of who they are.
Brandon Vick is a member of The Music City Film Critics’ Association, the resident film critic of the SoBros Network, and the star of The Vick’s Flicks Podcast. Follow him on Twitter @SirBrandonV and be sure to search #VicksFlicks for all of his latest movie reviews.
OUTER BANKS
As a 33-year old man, there were times I was watching Outer Banks and thought to myself, “I’m way too old for this shit.”
But, the charm of the setting, and the call of adventure gave it a sort of post-pubescent Goonies vibe. The plot can get a little messy, particularly as Outer Banks tries to add an element of teenage romance to the story. That plays well if you’re dialing in on The CW crowd, but didn’t win many points with the 33-year-old man demographic. Not everyone nails their parts – there are plenty of performances to nitpick. I hated the ending, but not all of the SoBros did. All in all, a really fun show that stirred those adventurous feelings of my adolescence back up.
We’ll see how well season two plays when (hopefully) we all won’t be locked in our houses with limited entertainment options.
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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