RENT (Theatrical Release USA 2005)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.6|5.0 Starsìììì

Rent—controversial—introduces viewers to New York’s East Village slum life. Well-acted by six of the original Broadway musical theatre performers, the film begins its theme of ‘needing love’ with emphasis on love in the moment without thought to later consequences. Lasting love seems to be the last thing served up in this depressingly sad film. Rent defines a lifestyle, a mindset, and a philosophical approach to life without dumbing down the reality of those choices.

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline

Bohemian lifestyles, where anything goes, stand up under the limelight and allow a completely thorough investigation.

Additional Thanks

Thank You to Director Chris Columbus for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Allan S. Gordon, Kevin McCollum, Lata Ryan, and Jeffrey Seller for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Mark Cohen (Anthony Rapp), Roger Davis (Adam Pascal), Mimi Marquez (Rosario Dawson), Tom Collins (Jesse L. Martin), Angel Dumott Schunard (Wilson Jermaine Heredia), Maureen Johnson (Idina Menzel), and Joanne Jefferson (Tracie Thoms).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Maybe. Without the music, this story becomes a tragedy hard to bear. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

ALIEN X-MAS (Internet Release USA 2020)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.6|5.0 Starsììì

Alien X-Mas—simple, short television film—seems to play on the foundation of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas with an alien instead of the Grinch. It needs appeal. The lack of originality and fresh creativeness makes it a difficult watch for the child/adult share audience.

 Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline

 A small alien saves the world
through the giving Christmas spirit.

 Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Stephen Chiodo for directing effort. Thank you to Producer John Bartnicki for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Santa Claus (Keythe Farley), X (Dee Bradley Baker), Holly (Kaliayh Rhambo), Noelle (Michelle Deco), Z (Barbara Goodson), Mrs. Claus (Jessica Gee-George), 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Maybe. It is cute, but not great.

Video Critique Available Here: 

 

Ben Meyers