Entertainment

In simpler terms, I rarely experience that thrilling sensation after watching a movie nowadays as modern films, particularly American ones, seem to lack depth and originality. The storylines are straightforward, broader themes are hinted at rather than explored, the visual elements have a patronizing tone, and the performances feel dull. However, the film “Black Bag” is exceptionally captivating, with Soderbergh showcasing his genius by portraying intelligent characters engaging in witty banter while dressed elegantly. The cinematography enhances their beauty, making it a delightful viewing experience without any unnecessary elements. This movie serves as a reminder that films should inspire us and open our minds to new possibilities, and “Black Bag” certainly does just that. It demonstrates that a film doesn’t need to have an explicit political message or focus on the politics of its story to be valuable cinema; it can simply offer moments of pure joy and beauty. Essentially, films are meant to move us and create rapture in our hearts.

This week’s notable news story involved the stock market, which unfortunately took a downturn. This might be why John Mulaney’s comedy show, “Everybody’s Live With John Mulaney,” opted for the theme “Lending People Money” in its L.A.-absent format premiere. Whether this was a wise choice or not remains to be seen. The skits were particularly sharp this week (as you’ll see below), making the financial mishaps even more pronounced. It’s challenging to find humor in other people’s personal hardships, as many of the calls unfortunately demonstrated. Instead, make fun of your own misfortunes – like Joan Baez did when discussing her repeated Tesla accidents. Baez was a captivating guest this week on late-night shows. But who else excelled this week? Let’s explore together.

As a die-hard film fan, I must clarify that Apple TV+ doesn’t label it as a comeback or reboot. Instead, they refer to it as a “renewal” because Ted Lasso never technically ended with season three. However, in an interview with Entertainment Weekly back in 2021, the show’s star Jason Sudeikis hinted that “the story that’s being told—that three-season arc—is one that I see, know, and understood.

Sometimes a premise just sells itself, you know?

Greetings! It seems a fresh set of participants has joined our “Yellowjackets” discussion group. Their arrival could stir things up and potentially reinvigorate the conversation. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like we can bring back Ben, as he’s already departed from this chat forever.

➽ Investing in cryptocurrency –> Buying digital money

➽ Collecting moon water –> Gathering water during a full moon

➽ NOT charging your crystals –> NOT giving energy to your crystals (Mostly not applicable)

➽ NOT manifesting anything –> Not making something come into being through the power of thought (Mostly not applicable)

➽ Manifesting love –> Bringing love into existence by focusing on it and visualizing its presence

It’s often noted that Severance is more akin to playing strategic chess compared to most other TV shows, which are more like playing checkers. Indeed, this observation holds true – the series excels in creating intricate and detailed worlds rarely seen on television. Furthermore, the second season’s penultimate episode can be likened to an actual chess match itself, skillfully maneuvering pieces to establish a grand final confrontation.

Ever since the fifteenth season, the bond between JoLink has been robust, strengthened when Jo’s old friend entered Grey Sloan Memorial as an orthopedic specialist. Despite her relationship with Alex at the time, it was evident to many that they shared a strong chemistry. After Alex departed, there were obstacles, particularly the complications involving Link and Amelia, and the ill-fated proposal attempt where Link enlisted Meredith’s children, which ended disastrously. However, when Link moved in with Jo to navigate the aftermath, it was clear that their relationship was about to blossom. Admittedly, it took some time — they engaged, argued, and spent an entire season sorting things out following that encounter. But as the saying goes, good things come to those who wait, and given that they’ve been friends since college, it’s evident this relationship is destined to endure.

This week’s murder is skillfully executed with a touch of theatricality. We already know that Tim’s (Max Jenkins) killer, Marilyn Gladwell, portrayed by Tracey Ullman, provides comedic relief and an unexpected dose of empathy. Marilyn serves as the psychic consultant to Tim’s stepmother, Phyllis, whom she has been assisting since Tim’s father’s demise two years ago. Phyllis pays Marilyn $200,000 per year for her services, which amounts to approximately 133 hours annually or about 2.5 hours each week. Keep in mind that Jordana Brewster’s character in “Tearjerker” earned around $250,000 from her most significant client with similar services. Just like Nathan Jordan before her, Phyllis Pearson (Jill Eikenberry!) is Marilyn’s most valuable client.

As a movie critic, I must say that the opening montage was a whirlwind of shaky vlogs from contestants embarking on their culinary journey, sprinkled with impressive resumes and countless shots of the Delta logo that stretched on like a never-ending road. Upon reaching the same Canadian parking lot, the sight of the iconic Top Chef knife block had me gripped with anticipation, mirroring the emotions of the contestants themselves.

In an attempt to breathe fresh air into the show’s format for Season 21 (affectionately titled “Haaave You Met Milwaukee?”), Kristen Kish took over Padma Lakshmi’s host seat, aiming to bring about change. However, many of the risks — in terms of format, editing, and pacing — did not quite hit the mark. Thus, while I fully acknowledge and applaud Top Chef’s desire to experiment after all these years, the constant deviations from the original formula mostly left me feeling perplexed rather than exhilarated.