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Civil War – Review
Civil War – Budget of $50 – 60 million – 1 hour and 49 minutes
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The President of the United States hosts a press conference to update the nation on its state. He assures the people that the Western Forces will fall. And the Florida Alliance didn’t sway the Carolinas to join their fight. He reiterates that the Loyalist States will reign supreme after the war concludes and accept the Californians and Texans back into the United States.
Lee photographs water riots in New York. She sees another photojournalist get hit and pulls the journalist out of the way. Lee warns the young reporter to wear a press vest when a bomb explodes. Lee focuses on getting the perfect shot of the aftermath. Later, Lee meets with her colleague, Joel, in a hotel lobby. New York Times veteran journalist Sammy wants to know what they have planned next. Joel reluctantly admits they are driving to DC to interview the president. Sammy laughs because no one can get close to DC without meeting a firing squad. Sammy advises them to go west to Pittsburg and head towards West Virginia instead of taking a direct route. Then, Sammy asks if they can drop him off at the South Carolina front lines. Lee and Joel woefully agree. Lee sees the young journalist from the bombing in the lobby, and Jessie introduces herself. Jessie fawns over Lee, who offers sage advice.
Lee meets Joel at their van and shockingly sees Jessie in the car beside Sammy. Lee pulls Joel aside because she worries Jessie can’t handle the war assignment. Joel tells Lee that Jessie is 23 years old and green but ready. He promises to drop Jessie off at the Carolina border with Sammy. Then, they can travel to DC to interview the president. Lee obliges. This civil war will leave a lasting mark on all of them.
This film gives a dystopian view of America but hits close to home. While it is unlikely that California and Texas would team up, a war feels possible. Now, the script never states the president’s political party. So, the writers aren’t trying to make a political statement. However, this movie highlights the trauma war reporters suffer through. It’s their job to report the news but never intervene. Lee reminisces on the atrocities she filmed throughout the years behind her lens. Lee knows the future waiting for Jessie. They stumble upon armed men torturing others, and Lee takes the picture while leaving them for certain death. They work through shootings, bombings, and death. This film is a love letter to photojournalism.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
Wait! I need a quote – Joel
God bless you all, and God bless America – President
I wouldn’t beat you in a brisk walk – Sammy
I’d like to take your picture – Lee
I didn’t take the photo – Jessie
Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead – Review
Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead – Budget Unknown – 1 hours and 39 minutes
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Tanya shops with friends for their upcoming trip to Mexico. Since her father died, Tanya’s mother, Mrs. Crandell, relies on Tanya to help around the house. So Tanya is looking forward to the 1-month break. Mrs. Crandell texts Tanya to pick up her brother, Kenny, and come home immediately. Mrs. Crandell had a nervous breakdown at work. She must attend a yoga retreat in Taiwan or risk losing her job. Tanya cancels her trip to care for her siblings, including Melissa and Zack. Before Mrs. Crandell leaves, she hires a babysitter, Mrs. Stuark, to care for the kids. Mrs. Crandell gives Mrs. Stuark an envelope of cash for food and sets her bills on autopay.
Kenny reminds Tanya that they planned a party before Mrs. Crandell left. So, Tanya tells Mrs. Stuark they will have a bible study with gospel rap music. Mrs. Struark approves the party. However, she steps out during the party, and the raunchiness frightens her. She lays in bed and dies. Tanya enters Mrs. Stuark’s room and finds the babysitter pale and unresponsive. Zack dials 911, but Kenny snatches the phone and hangs up. They believe the cops will blame them for the death. They put Mrs. Stuark’s body in the garage refrigerator and taped it shut. Later, they place Mrs. Stuark in her car after forcing alcohol into her mouth. And they push the car into a lake.
After a few days, the kids run out of food. Their younger brother, Zack, remembers their mother gave Mrs. Stuark cash. Unfortunately, Kenny placed the purse containing the money in Mrs. Stuark’s car before submerging it. Kenny and Tanya spin a vape pen to determine who will work to feed the family. The pen lands on Kenny, but their siblings believe he doesn’t have a corporate look. So, Tanya lies about her age to drive a rideshare. But it doesn’t bring in enough money. Melissa creates a fake resumé and social media presence while Zack coaches Tanya for the interview. Tanya will get one step into the corporate world and learn about her desires, future, and family.
This remake of the 1991 film has the original’s foundation while making changes to incorporate today’s technology and social sentiments (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). The characters have the same name, including Sue Ellen, but you have to watch to hear it. And original cast members make cameo appearances. The script sprinkles classic lines for the fans as the original movie plays in the background. You can hear some of the original score if you listen carefully. This remake respects the source material while passing the torch. It’s funny but not for a younger audience. It features unedited rap lyrics and adult language. While you won’t run to the theaters to watch, it will be worth a BET+ free trial.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
It’s like the bible, except it’s filled with facts – Rose
You can call me ADT – Mrs. Sturak
The dishes are done, man – Kenny
You did the right thing – Mrs. Crandell
That’ll work – Melissa
They’re your kids, not mine’s – Tanya
Pour some out for the little homey – Zack
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