MAYDAY (2026)

September 3, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. I guess we were due for a “Cold War Buddy Comedy”. And who better to deliver than co-directors John Francis Daley and Johnathan Goldstein, the team behind GAME NIGHT (2018) and DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES (2023). This time out, they deliver excellent visuals to go along with stellar comedic chemistry between first class wisecracker Ryan Reynolds and expert straight man (and Oscar winner) Kenneth Branagh.

Reynolds stars as hotshot Navy pilot Troy Kelly, nicknamed “Assassin” for not-so-heroic reasons held at bay until near the film’s end. The year is 1987, which is forty years into the Cold War, and Reynolds is shot down while on a Top-Secret reconnaissance mission deep into Russian territory. A terrific visual effect has us following Troy’s ejection and fiery parachute down towards a very rough landing. He’s rescued by Nikolai Ustinov (Branagh), who it’s soon learned is a former KGB agent. Now living like a hermit miles from civilization, Nikolai prefers to be called ‘Nick’ and is thoroughly obsessed with all things American, especially TOP GUN … of which his prized possession is a Kramer-style bootleg of the film shot in a theater.

We are treated to a Jackie Chan-style bar fight, where Nick surprises with advanced skills. This forces the two men on a road trip, where Troy hopes he can be returned to freedom, and Nick hopes his efforts to save Troy will result in the ultimate relo to the U.S. for him and his daughter (an underused Maria Bakalova). While on this road trip, the men are being pursued by an ambitious and relentless Soviet agent played by Marcin Dorocinski (MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – DEAD RECKONING PART ONE, 2023). Other memorable visuals include a chase scene through a parade involving a nuclear missile launcher and fisticuffs midflight while the plane door is open.

Cinematographer Barry Peterson deserves credit for visuals that maintain the pace of the Reynolds – Branagh back-and-forth, and the accompanying Bruce Springsteen songs don’t hurt either (a result of the Boss selling off his catalog). David Morse has a small role as Troy’s dad, but the subplot feels a bit slapped on, even if it doesn’t really distract from the overall entertainment value delivered by this latest Daley-Goldstein project. A key element on display is how both sides fall prey to propaganda.

The film will be released globally on Apple TV on September 4.

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Posted by David Ferguson

OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD: THE FIRST CORAL REEFERS (2026, doc)

September 3, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. With the mere mention of Jimmy Buffett, we immediately envision a sea of ‘Parrot heads’ sipping margaritas and having a blast as they sing along to the feel-good coastal tunes being played at a sunny outdoor venue. The beloved singer passed away three years ago, and now documentarian John H Cunningham provides an in-depth look at the early days. This is the origin story of the cultural phenomenon that Buffett built with his band … The Coral Reefers.

Oscar winner Jeff Bridges is a fitting narrator, and throughout the film we hear from former band members, those who were influenced by Buffett, and those who collaborated. A partial list includes guitarist Roger Bartlett, singers Deborah McColl and Mac McAnally, music producer Norbert Putnam, songwriter Keith Sykes, and country music star Kenny Chesney. What is immediately obvious is the respect these folks had for Buffett and their appreciation for having been associated with him, and his role in creating his own genre of music.

The stories from the 1970’s are fascinating. Sure, partying was central to the lifestyle – especially after Buffett relocated from Nashville to Key West, but it’s the associations and exchanges between musicians of the era that really strike a chord. Connections with Glenn Frey of The Eagles and the great James Taylor were important, and in fact, legend has it that Timothy B Schmitt was the first to use the ‘Parrot heads’ moniker. Filmmaker Cunningham is correct in titling this ‘The First Coral Reefers’, because there was certainly band turnover – some of it caused by the excessive partying of the time.

What the film does best is recount the foundation of the music, the band, the early albums, the changes in attitude (get it?), and the growth of a loyal fan base. The film ends with a list of former Coral Reefers who have ‘sailed on’, and Cunningham’s film will live on as a history of how Jimmy Buffett’s music became synonymous with “fun”. That’s not such a bad legacy.

The film will begin its theatrical release in major cities in early September timed to Jimmy Buffett Day (September 4, 2026) with a TVOD/ digital release to follow in October in the US/Canada.

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Posted by David Ferguson

COYOTE VS ACME (2026)

August 27, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. For those of us who grew up belly-laughing at Looney Tunes, the characters are considered sacred ground, so a bit of anxiety hits when movies like SPACE JAM (1996) hit the big screen. This especially holds true for this latest from director Dave Green, since we know so many of the beloved characters will be on display. Samy Burch (MAY DECEMBER, 2023) adapted the screenplay from a 1990 article in “The New Yorker”, with an assist from James Gunn (SUPERMAN, 2025) and Jeremy Slater (FANTASTIC FOUR, 2015). The blend of animation and live action is reminiscent of the 1988 classic, WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT.

The two opening scenes set a high bar. A tongue-in-cheek title card reading “Based on a True Story” leads to the two action sequences. Dr. Lorre frantically escapes from Acme Labs and the more familiar pacing of Wile E Coyote trying (yet again) to nab the Road Runner serve as an introduction to the endless stream of Acme products that the amazingly persistent Wile E Coyote has used during his decades long bird chasing. Persistence is usually an admirable trait, though in this case it has led to his stockpile of gadgets and his shot in court … once he sees the advertisement by local law firm Avery, Jones, and Maltese (a nod to original Warner Bros animators Tex Avery, Chuck Jones, and Michael Maltese). Will Forte plays lawyer Kevin Avery whose catchphrase is “There’s always someone to blame”. Avery is a lazy lawyer and his specialty is quickly settling damage suits and then moving on to the next one.

Think of Kevin Avery’s approach as similar to what we saw on “Better Call Saul”. Avery’s hand gets forced when Wile E Coyote’s case against Acme becomes massive – thanks to Avery’s niece Paige (an excellent Lana Condor) – and a settlement collapse with Acme’s arrogant lead attorney, Buddy Crane (John Cena in alpha-male mode) falls through. Paige’s idealism contrasts with Avery’s skepticism and Crane’s over-confidence, making for quite a show in the courtroom run by Luis Guzman’s judge.

Many scenes were filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico – one of Bugs Bunny’s favorite spots – and the desert landscape makes for the perfect setting. Wile E Coyote is the epitome of a silent movie star, and we are reminded that he has ‘a limited number of signs’ for communicating. He has long been the aggressor and is now the victim seeking justice … going against the powerful mega corporation. Along the way, we see many of our Looney Tunes favorites, including Daffy Duck, Granny, Tweety Bird, Elmer Fudd, Yosemite Sam, Witch Hazel, and Foghorn Leghorn (as Acme’s CEO). Many of the voices are provided by the great Eric Bauza – though of course, the legendary Mel Blanc lives on in our hearts (and ears).

Looney Tunes has long magically combined silliness with seriousness. This film (along with the human characters) play it straight, which ensures the comedy lands perfectly. Warner Bros had previously shelved the project (for tax purposes) prior to finding the new distributor. Even the politics and finances of Hollywood couldn’t stop this crew. The legacy of these iconic cartoon characters remains intact, and Looney Tunes fans will surely be satisfied. Meep Meep.

In theaters beginning August 28, 2026

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Posted by David Ferguson

THRESHOLD (2026, doc)

August 27, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. We envision the makeup of a champion to be confident, fearless, and to possess the heart of a lion. Documentarians (and brothers) Lars Brinkema and Torsten Brinkema profile legendary cross-country skier Jessie Diggins who courageously shatters that myth while telling her very personal story.

Jessie begins by informing us of her desire to be perfect from a very early age. We assume this is going to be the tale of PA – Perfectionists Anonymous. Of course, her story takes a much different path. She’s from Afton, Minnesota, and trains there when she’s not traveling for events. Her parents, Clay and Deb, show us Jessie’s baby photos and family videos. They are clearly supportive … not just of her athletic endeavors, but also of her personal challenges.

Winning her first high school varsity race as a 7th grader “changed everything” for Jessie. She became obsessed with being the best, and defined that by working harder than anyone else and suffering for her art/sport/goals. In the 2018 Olympics, Jessie won the first ever Cross-Country Skiing gold medal for the United States. She also became the World Champion, widely acknowledged as the sport’s best. However, Jessie tells us that despite her successes and global adoration, she was facing issues with body image and an eating disorder. With the courage of a champion, she decided to go public.

The reason Jessie’s story is so important is because it acts as a cautionary tale. Until she went public, no one knew her struggles. We hear from her parents, her husband Wade, and her team coach Matt Whitcomb. These are the people closest to her and the ones who cared more for getting her ‘well’ … Jessie refers to it as being “sick”. Racing became the reason Jessie wanted to beat this. In fact, the race footage is stunning. This highly trained athlete experiences exhaustion at a level that more than 99% of human beings will never know. She builds up her body only to tear it down. Imagine doing this while battling a eating disorder and mental health issues. Jessie often hid behind a mask of big smiles, yet once the truth was known, those smiles could not be trusted. I go back to cautionary tale – know the truth about yourself and your loved ones.

Available on VOD beginning August 28, 2026

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Posted by David Ferguson

THE MARCHING BAND (2026, France)

August 26, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. Circumstances. Fate. Luck. Determination. It’s been said that what we make of our lives is up to us. Still, it seems likely that these factors play a role- often a significant role. Writer-director Emmanuel Corcol and co-writers Irene Muscari, Oriane Bonduel, and Khaled Amara have delivered a film that’s touching, funny, and grounded in emotional sincerity. The film never moves too quickly or too slowly, instead allowing the characters to guide the pace.

Benjamin Lavernhe (THE FRENCH DISPATCH, 2021) plays Thibaut, a world-renowned orchestral conductor. The film opens with him conducting to the point of apparent exhaustion. We (and he) soon learn it’s leukemia that has drained his energy. A bone marrow transplant is his only hope, and his sister Rose (Mathilde Courcol-Rozes) readily volunteers to be tested. The surprise is not that she’s no match, but rather that they aren’t true brother and sister. Thibaut was adopted long ago. Soon, he’s tracked down a biological brother he was previously unaware of. Jimmy (Pierre Lotin, THE STRANGER, 2026) is a working class divorced dad employed in a school kitchen.

The two brothers had been separately adopted at an early age, and when Thibaut learns that Jimmy also has a love of music, the flashing lights of ‘nature vs nurture’ cannot be ignored. Thibaut quickly realizes his own privilege, having been classically trained from an early age, and Jimmy can’t help but feel envious of the life his brother has led, while still accepting his own. After the procedure, Thibault discovers Jimmy is in a local marching band filled with townspeople who are striking against the town’s largest employer. The band is its own community with friends and history … oh, and music. It doesn’t take long for Thibaut to offer his talents when the band is in need, and it becomes a razor thin line on whether Jimmy is grateful or angry with the development.

Watching these two newfound brothers struggle through a relationship with no actual history is made believable thanks to the script and the actors. Sabrina (Sarah Suco), who plays the trumpet and is attracted to the oblivious Jimmy, is actually instrumental in keeping the two men moving forward. The contrast between the world of Thibaut and the world of Jimmy is obvious as the two men search for connection. Both men ask ‘what could have been’ without uttering a word. At the center of this fine film is the power of music, and those involved ensure it never devolves into the sentimental hogwash we too often see in American movies.

Nationwide theater expansion begins August 28,2026

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Posted by David Ferguson

IF I TELL YOU (2026)

August 26, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. Writer-director Tessa Blake and screenwriter Jennifer Manocherian have adapted Lisa O’Donnell’s 2014 novel, “Closed Doors”, and set the story in small town Minnesota rather than Scotland. This relocation works beautifully thanks to the contrast of the wide-open natural spaces of Boundary Waters with the claustrophobic nature of family life. Parents are tasked with a balancing act: protecting kids with teaching them, while also maintaining our own peace of mind. Where is the line between being honest with kids and protecting them from situations that are beyond their age bracket?

Michael (Etienne Kellici, YOU GOTTA BELIEVE, 2024) is a normal twelve-year-old who likes playing with his group of friends and enjoying the freedom that comes with small town living. Michael is also a perceptive kid, and he’s spotted a shift in his once close-knit family. His dad Brian (Bill Heck, “The Old Man”) is struggling with his unemployment to the point of it affecting his daily moods and his family relationships. Michael’s mom Rosemary (Allison Miller, “A Million Little Things”, and a young Linda Purl lookalike) is loving and kind, while Granny (Carol Kane) is a trusted family elder living with them.

Michael’s initial concerns shoot to another level one evening when his mother comes home late, and he hears his parents arguing behind closed doors. His concern grows again when he sees mom’s face is injured and she’s a bit withdrawn. The adults tell Michael not to worry, but of course, he does. When Rosemary stays silent, rumors circulate around town, adding even more stress to the family. Michael’s best friend Alice (Kennedi Butler, “True Detective”) lost her mother a year ago, and now she’s faced with her dad re-marrying, providing her a ‘new mom’. These kids take on the stress of the parents … and no amount of silence will protect them.

The film is such a grounded display of just how complicated life can be … even in a bucolic small town, and even for twelve-year-olds. As Michael jumps to conclusions while trying to solve the mystery, Rosemary’s decision soon delivers a wave of guilt, showing just how difficult personal decisions can be – and how the impact can go far beyond one’s own nuclear family. These five actors are all excellent at capturing the essence and internal turmoil of the characters, and how the desire to protect kids is often at odds with honesty and openness.

Opening in select theaters nationwide on August 27, 2026

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Posted by David Ferguson

THE MAGIC FARAWAY TREE (2026)

August 21, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. Director Ben Gregor may have delivered the rarest of films in this day and age … one filled with adventure, goodness, and life lessons … and one the entire family can watch and enjoy together. Simon Farnaby (PADDINGTON 2, 2017) adapted the screenplay from Enid Blyton’s series of four books published between 1939 and 1951. Ms. Blyton passed away in 1968, yet she remains one of the best-selling authors of children’s books.

Tim (Andrew Garfield) and Polly (Claire Foy, “The Crown”) are a married couple with three kids. Polly comes home in a stupor one evening, confessing to Tim that she quit her job due to a principle that meant a great deal to her. Since she’s the breadwinner of the family, and their car and apartment were tied to the job, they find themselves instantaneously broke and homeless. Their plan is tied to a ‘Dream Binder’ put together many years ago, and off they go to live in a rustic barn landlorded by marble-mouthed Brian (the film’s writer Simon Farnaby) and Bella (Farnaby’s real life wife Claire Keelan). Rustic is a bit of an understatement as the place is a mess and has no electricity.

Youngest daughter Fran (Billie Gadsdon, HERE, 2024) doesn’t speak much, while Joe (Phoenix Laroche) is having video game withdrawals. Beth (Delilah Bennett-Cardy) is the angry teen who wants nothing to do with a place lacking WIFI and friends. Daddy Tim is the dreamer, while Mama Polly is the practical one. Together they plan to grow tomatoes and market Tim’s delicious tomato sauce recipe. Meanwhile, Fran discovers the titular magic tree which leads to an enchanted land of colorful characters, including the charming and delightful Fairy Silky (Nicola Coughlan, “Bridgerton”) and the skeptical Moonface (Nonso Anozie, “Sweet Tooth”). Things escalate once Fran’s siblings join in the magic. Trips to Land of Goodies (“Don’t be greedy”) and Land of Birthdays (cold due to icing) also involve an angry Pixie, Saucepan Man, Mr. Wazisname, and Dame Washalot. The kids find out it’s not all rainbows and unicorns when they cross paths with the vicious Dame Snap (Rebecca Ferguson).

Polly’s ultra-wealthy and snobbish mother (screen veteran Jennifer Saunders) can’t comprehend this new lifestyle and looks forward to telling them, “I told you so.” Of course, this is a throwback fairy tale, so we are fairly certain she won’t get the chance. The closest comparisons to the film would be along the lines of THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA (2005), THE ADVENTURES OF BARON MUNCHAUSEN (1988), and most any Monty Python feature. This particular family adventure leads to some wonderful life lessons and yes, brings the family closer together. The books from Enid Blyton are from another era, but the film has a contemporary feel as it reminds us that somewhere along the line, we lose the magic we had as kids … well, all except Tim, who has held on tightly.

Opens nationwide in theaters on August 21, 2026

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Posted by David Ferguson

MUTINY (2026)

August 21, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. This is a Jason Statham movie on a boat. For anyone who would be interested in this one, that description is all that’s needed. By now, we know what to expect from a Statham movie: lots of action, plenty of mano-y-mano fisticuffs, and a reason for him to flash a heart of gold buried under that tough and well-toned exterior. Director Jean-Francois Richet was behind the two excellent “Merine” movies in 2008, and here is back with his PLANE (2003) screenwriter JP Davis (joined by co-writer Lindsay Michel).

Cole Reed (Statham) is the trusted bodyguard for a billionaire shipping magnate (Ramon Tikaram) who is selling his company so that his son (Chaneil Kular) can pursue his own dreams (a tale as old as time). Of course, there is more to the story (and more to the son), but it becomes clear that the sale is not in the best interest of a particular group that is committed to halting the transaction. When the owner is ambushed, Cole Reed is falsely accused … oh, and yes, this sets him on a mission for revenge.

It’s that mission that finds Cole on a huge cargo ship, where he discovers yet another reason to be a hero. On the ship, he crosses paths with the third mate (Annabelle Wallis, “Peaky Blinders”, niece of legendary actor Richard Harris), who also discovers some nefarious activities being carried out by the captain and crew. This inspires the almost comical level of violence that follows … imagine a Jackie Chan movie played straight … or if John McClain was saving Christmas on a cruise ship. Plot holes abound, as do bone-crunching punches and some creative uses of props/weapons. Jason Statham continues to be the hero we deserve – at least in Jason Statham movies.

Opens in theaters nationwide on August 21, 2026

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Posted by David Ferguson

NEVER STOP CHASING (2026, doc)

August 19, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. Some folks are just made differently. As a kid, Reed Timmer was afraid of storms. Because of this, he watched The Weather Channel religiously. This drove his knowledge and interest, and he eventually became the foremost storm chaser in the United States. Director Ken Cole has followed Timmer for more than twenty years, as they have collaborated on the 2004 PBS movie TORNADO GLORY, and the 2013 series, “Tornado Chasers”. Additionally, Timmer has appeared on The Discovery Channel’s “Storm Chasers”. This latest takes viewers directly into storms with Reed’s team.

It’s likely every viewer will know in the first seven minutes whether this is a documentary experience they can make it through. The photography is simply too amazing to describe in words as Reed Timmer and his storm chasing team take on the 2013 El Reno Tornado – widely accepted as the largest in history. Fearless is not the right word, but courageous certainly is. They understand the danger of intercepting storms, and it’s the experience, knowledge, and technology that protects them … along with quite a bit of luck. There are also memories of colleagues and friends who were less fortunate.

The contrast between the chasers and TV studio meteorologists is almost comical. The chasers live for the adrenaline rush and display kid-like excitement, while the TV broadcasters remain calm and collected while passing along details and videos. The cameras and this “Dominator” team with their customized vehicle take us inside storms. In the process, they prove that this is not just some crazy hobby. They are compiling crucial data for science with the intention of further improving warnings – saving as many lives as possible.

The scenes of devastation from the May 2024 Greenfield, Iowa tornado are painful to watch, yet the historic drone coverage allowed for never-before obtained data … all from the relative (un)safety of a rental car (after the Dominator rig was damaged). A New York Times photographer goes along for the ride, and her reactions are fascinating to watch. The intensity of these storms only slightly exceeds the intensity of pursuit exhibited by Reed Timmer and his team. For most of us, this is certainly as close as we ever want to come to a tornado, and we owe thanks to those willing to lay it on the line for science.

In theaters nationwide beginning August 21, 2026

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Posted by David Ferguson

THE STRANGER (2026, France)

August 18, 2026

Greetings again from the darkness. It has been quite a while since the last film adaptation of Albert Camus’ 1942 novel “L’Etranger”, and filmmaker Francois Ozon (behind one of my favorites, SWIMMING POOL, 2003) went to Albert’s daughter Catherine to get approval for this project. Previous adaptations include THE STRANGER (1967, Italy) and FATE (2001, Turkey). Ozone and Phillippe Piazzo collaborated on this updated screenplay (including some variations from the source material).

Ozon opted to film in black and white, and after some flashbacks to ‘old’ Algiers, we jump to the 1930’s where we find Meursault (a terrific Benjamin Voisin) as what’s often described as an indifferent man. Taciturn and/or withdrawn would also be properly descriptive, yet he’s typically quite direct during his limited times of speaking. Meursault is mysterious because he’s handsome and doesn’t spill his emotional guts over everything that happens. That everything includes the notice that his mother has died.

While most of us would be deeply affected by the news, we are unsure about Meursault. He spends time in the Baths of Algiers with Marie (Rebecca Marder), along with drinks in the pub, a Fernandel film at the cinema, and an evening of intimacy. At his mother’s funeral, his stoic demeanor confuses the attendees, and soon enough he and Marie are facing questions of love and marriage. As usual, he remains emotionally detached, willing to go along.

Things change during a beach visit with friends, and Meursault finds himself imprisoned on murder charges. We witness the act and it feels quite surreal. The trial takes up a chunk of the film and among those speaking on his behalf are a couple of neighbors: an old man  (Denis Levant) who states Meursault was kind to him and his mangy dog, and another (Pierre Lottin) who may have abused his own girlfriend. Meursault manages to spurn God and a Priest while in his cell, and he does question the meaning of life. Ozon’s use of black and white are reminders of the French New Wave of the 50’s and 60’s, and plays right into Camus’ existentialism. The character of Meursault and the story leave us much room for reflection, thought, and discussion … despite appearing fairly simple on the surface.

On DVD/Blu-Ray August 18, 2026, available on digital nationwide

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Posted by David Ferguson

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