Guillermo del Toro poses backstage with the Oscar® for Animated Feature Film during the live ABC telecast of the 95th Oscars® at Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 12, 2023.
Visionary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro is one of the most popular directors working today!
Del Toro received an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay for his work on ‘Pan’s Labyrinth‘, and would go on to win Oscars for Best Picture and Best Director for ‘The Shape of Water‘, as well as an Oscar for Best Animated Feature for his work on ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio‘.
The director has also made such popular films as ‘Pacific Rim‘, ‘Crimson Peak‘ and ‘Nightmare Alley‘, which was also nominated for a Best Picture Academy Award.
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Del Toro’s latest film, ‘Frankenstein‘, a long time passion project for the director, opens in theaters on October 17th before premiering on Netflix November 7th.
In honor of the new release, Moviefone is counting down every film Guillermo del Toro has ever directed, including his latest.
Tom Hiddleston in ‘Crimson Peak’. Photo: Universal Pictures.
In the aftermath of a family tragedy, an aspiring author (Mia Wasikowska) is torn between love for her childhood friend and the temptation of a mysterious outsider. Trying to escape the ghosts of her past, she is swept away to a house that breathes, bleeds… and remembers.
A disease carried by common cockroaches is killing Manhattan children. In an effort to stop the epidemic an entomologist, Susan Tyler (Mira Sorvino), creates a mutant breed of insect that secretes a fluid to kill the roaches. This mutant breed was engineered to die after one generation, but three years later Susan finds out that the species has survived and evolved into a large, gruesome monster that can mimic human form.
Fernando Tielve in ‘The Devil’s Backbone’. Photo: 20th Century Fox.
Spain, 1939. In the last days of the Spanish Civil War, the young Carlos (Fernando Tielve) arrives at the Santa Lucía orphanage, where he will make friends and enemies as he follows the quiet footsteps of a mysterious presence eager for revenge.
Faced with his own mortality, an ingenious alchemist tried to perfect an invention that would provide him with the key to eternal life. It was called the Cronos device. When he died more than 400 years later, he took the secrets of this remarkable device to the grave with him. Now, an elderly antiques dealer has found the hellish machine hidden in a statue and learns about its incredible powers. The more he uses the device, the younger he becomes…but nothing comes without a price. Life after death is just the beginning as this nerve-shattering thriller unfolds and the fountain of youth turns bloody.
(L to R) Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones in ‘The Shape of Water’. Photo: Fox Searchlight Pictures.
An other-worldly story, set against the backdrop of Cold War era America circa 1962, where a mute janitor (Sally Hawkins) working at a lab falls in love with an amphibious man (Doug Jones) being held captive there and devises a plan to help him escape.
A scene from ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’. Photo: Netflix.
Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro reinvents Carlo Collodi’s classic tale of the wooden marionette (Gregory Mann) who is magically brought to life in order to mend the heart of a grieving woodcarver named Geppetto (David Bradley). This whimsical, stop-motion film directed by Guillermo del Toro and Mark Gustafson follows the mischievous and disobedient adventures of Pinocchio in his pursuit of a place in the world.
(L to R) Doug Jones and Ivana Baquero in ‘Pan’s Labyrinth’. Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures.
In post–civil war Spain, 10-year-old Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) moves with her pregnant mother to live under the control of her cruel stepfather. Drawn into a mysterious labyrinth, she meets a faun who reveals that she may be a lost princess from an underground kingdom. To return to her true father, she must complete a series of surreal and perilous tasks that blur the line between reality and fantasy.
(L to R) Cate Blanchett and Bradley Cooper in ‘Nightmare Alley’. Photo: Searchlight Pictures.
An ambitious carnival man (Bradley Cooper) with a talent for manipulating people with a few well-chosen words hooks up with a female psychologist (Cate Blanchett) who is even more dangerous than he is.
(L to R) Idris Elba, Charlie Hunnam, and Rinko Kikuchi in ‘Pacific Rim’. Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures.
Using massive piloted robots to combat the alien threat, earth’s survivors take the fight to the invading alien force lurking in the depths of the Pacific Ocean. Nearly defenseless in the face of the relentless enemy, the forces of mankind have no choice but to turn to two unlikely heroes who now stand as earth’s final hope against the mounting apocalypse.
(L to R) Ron Perlman and Doug Jones in ‘Hellboy II: The Golden Army’. Photo: Universal Pictures.
Hellboy (Ron Perlman), his pyrokinetic girlfriend, Liz (Selma Blair), and aquatic empath, Abe Sapien (Doug Jones), face their biggest battle when an underworld elven prince plans to reclaim Earth for his magical kindred. Tired of living in the shadow of humans, Prince Nuada (Luke Goss) tries to awaken an ancient force of killing machines, the all-powerful Golden Army, to clear the way for fantasy creatures to roam free. Only Hellboy can stop the dark prince and prevent humanity’s annihilation.
Ron Perlman in ‘Hellboy’. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.
In the final days of World War II, the Nazis attempt to use black magic to aid their dying cause. The Allies raid the camp where the ceremony is taking place, but not before they summon a baby demon who is rescued by Allied forces and dubbed “Hellboy”. Sixty years later, Hellboy (Ron Perlman) serves the cause of good rather than evil as an agent in the Bureau of Paranormal Research & Defense, along with Abe Sapien (Doug Jones) – a merman with psychic powers, and Liz Sherman (Selma Blair) – a woman with pyrokinesis, protecting America against dark forces.
Dr. Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac), a brilliant but egotistical scientist, brings a creature (Jacob Elordi) to life in a monstrous experiment that ultimately leads to the undoing of both the creator and his tragic creation.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Preview:
Take a closer look at Isle of Berk and The Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic.
Isle of Berk houses 30 dragon animatronics, two rides, and a live show.
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ride has the most elaborate line queue of any theme park ride.
Ever wonder what it’s like to come face-to-face with the famous Nightfury from ‘How to Train Your Dragon‘? Or travel by Floo Metro to the British Ministry of Magic? Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe has found a way to give guests the ultimate immersive experience in its brand new theme park, which opened on May 22, 2025
Moviefone had the pleasure of visiting Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe during the media preview ahead of its grand opening to experience the entire theme park, including Isle of Berk and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Epic Universe is Universal Orlando’s fourth theme park, not far from Universal Studios Orlando. It houses five brand new lands, including Celestial Park, How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
Epic Universe’s theming is inspired by the heavens, stars, and constellations, and once guests step through the towering Emerald Gate and Chronos device, they will find themselves in Celestial Park. From there, they will be able to access the four other portals leading them into various lands.
The Isle of Berk
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Just through the fiery red swirling portal is the Isle of Berk – a land where Vikings and dragons live in harmony. Themed to DreamWorks’ animated feature ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ franchise, this land in Epic Universe will transport you to a world that has only existed in animation – until now. There are plenty to do in Berk, including three rides, one live show, meet and greet with Toothless, plenty of food options, and of course, you’ll spot characters from the film roaming around the village.
Once inside Berk, you’re greeted by towering Viking and Dragon statues emerging out of the water. The larger-than-life decor of this land will make you forget that you’re at a theme park. Aside from its attractions and live entertainment, there are 30 animatronic dragons spread throughout Berk. From napping baby dragons to the massive Snow Wraith ready to blast you with its icy breath.
The Attractions In Isle of Berk
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Out of all the lands within Epic Universe, the Isle of Berk houses the most attractions. It has three rides – Hiccup’s Wing Glider, Dragon Racer’s Rally, and Fyre Drill. Each is unique, has colorful outdoor line queues, and fits right into the world of ‘How To Train Your Dragon’.
Hiccup’s Wing Glider rides like a classic rollercoaster, with just enough thrills without taking the riders upside-down. As the coaster moves out of the loading station, you’ll hear Hiccup speaking to Toothless, “Hey Toothless, we’ve got to prepare for launch”. The coaster takes you right past animatronics of Hiccup and Toothless before Toothless launches your Winged Flying Machine to soar through the Isle.
The ride track will take you through the entire land and over water so you can get a fantastic view of Berk. All is well until you come across some Gronckle eggs hatching. The winged machine quickly makes its getaway by launching at full speed. As the coasters soar past the eggs, the score from ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ plays, and you get the sensation of what it’s like to fly on the back of a dragon.
The official synopsis for Hiccup’s Wing Gliders:
“From Hiccup’s workshop comes his latest contraption: a winged flying machine that launches aspiring Dragon Riders into the air, swooping and soaring and encountering Hiccup and Toothless along the way. Get ready to board Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a fun coaster that invites Vikings to prove they’re brave enough to speed through the sky with dragons.”
Dragon Racer’s Rally takes riders in a circular motion up to 67 feet in the air before gliding back down in a circular motion. What makes this ride unique is that each rider has control over their own vehicle’s “wings”. Alternating them back and forth will allow your vehicle to spin 360 degrees, which means as the ride is gliding in a circular motion, you are also spinning and going upside down. The wings are heavier than expected and can take some getting used to to get your vehicle to spin. If you prefer a milder experience, hold the wings steady and your vehicle will not spin. This is a short ride and a fun way to experience flying like a Dragon.
The official synopsis for Dragon Racer’s Rally:
“The sport of dragon racing is a celebrated pastime on the Isle of Berk. At Dragon Racer’s Rally, Berk’s new Vikings can practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on a Viking-made dragonriding trainer. You’ll need these high-flying, gravity-defying, swooping and soaring skills if you hope to become a champion dragon racer.”
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Fyre Drill is the perfect way to beat the heat. It’s an interactive boat battle, and in Viking fashion, teaching you how to douse flames or foes with water. This is an all-ages ride with no drops, twists, or turns. Each boat is equipped with water cannons. As the boat moves through large wooden targets, your goal is to hit the targets, but there’s no rule about also soaking the other boats and its riders with your water cannon. The ride is slow moving, so there is no way to avoid getting wet on this ride.
The official synopsis for Fyre Drill:
“With fire-breathing dragons everywhere, villagers have to be prepared. Viking twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut have transformed Berk’s Fyre Skööl into a watery, interactive boat battle at sea. Board your ship in Fyre Drill and blast your water cannons at flame-like targets – and the occupants of every other boat – to out-soak other Vikings.”
Eat Like A Viking
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
There are several dining options in Isle of Berk including the Mead Hall, the Spit Fyre Grill, and Holligan’s Grog & Gruel. Each of the food locations offers quick service and a variety of dishes.
The Mead Hall is the tallest building in the land, and its entrance doors are over 16 feet tall. Here you’ll find larger platters of meats perfect for sharing, seafood, sandwiches, desserts, drinks, and of course, mead. There are also two vegan options available: the Nordic Harvest Salad and Valka’s Vegan Burger with an ancient grain patty. This is where you’ll find the adorable fish-shaped dessert made of chocolate mousse on a bed of cereal crumbles.
Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel is where you can find the Instagramable Dragon Fire Chicken Spire mac-and-cheese cone. These huge bread cones are filled to the brim with creamy mac and cheese and toppings such as BBQ pulled pork or pulled chicken with hot honey. Spit Fyre Grill is where you’ll find various bowls featuring steak, chicken, salmon, and shrimp. There’s also a vegan bowl option with kale spring mix, bean salad, vegan feta, with a mango and mint vinaigrette.
Toothless and Hiccup Soar High In “The Untrainable Dragon” Live Show
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Amongst the rides, food, and character meet and greets, there is also the live show called “The Untrainable Dragon, ” unlike any theme park stage show. First debuted in Universal Studios Beijing, the Vikings encountered a new troublesome dragon causing mayhem in the village. Hiccup, Toothless, Gobber, and Astrid must find a way to calm the dragon before it causes more destruction.
This show will feature large dragon puppets, singing, dancing, projection, smoke, and lighting effects. Best of all, Hiccup and Toothless will soar over the audience. It’s truly stunning to see Hiccup on the back of the massive Toothless animatronic, with a wingspan of 27 feet, breaking through the fog, high in the theater. The show runs about 20 minutes and is pure entertainment.
You can also meet Hiccup and Toothless, located near the theater for “The Untrainable Dragon”. This is probably the most sought after experience in Isle of Berk so if you want to meet Toothless, make sure to prioritize and plan because the line can get up to over 2 hours long.
The Isle of Berk immerse guests into the world of Dreamwork’s ‘How To Train Your Dragon’. Aside from all the attractions and entertainment, it’s fun to walk around to try to find all 30 animatronic dragons. There are interactive towers placed all around Berk that’ll play a sound or mist effect once you interact with it. You’ll undoubtedly run into Ruffnut, Tuffnut, and Gobber, as they usually roam around the land. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for adorable baby dragons who will play a game of “Toothless Says”.
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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Explore the world of ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. Walking through the towering wand-topped portal, you are transported to 1920s Paris. This land has incredible design, from the cobblestone streets to the tall buildings of Place Cachée to the towering Phoenix arch.
This land is filled with interactive activities, hidden in shop windows. To unlock the magic, you will need an interactive wand, which is available at Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique. This is where you can find the new second-generation wands with a more powerful connectivity, and features light and sound haptics to give you a more unique spell casting experience.
Aside from interactive wand spells, there are also character interactions in magical Paris. You can find a live street band playing, alongside the magical creature Plume the Puffskein. The stylish wand designer Cosme Acajor roams near her storefront, and students from various wizarding schools add to the overall atmosphere.
Battle at the British Ministry of Magic
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The main attraction in this land is the “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” ride. For the first time, guests will be able to experience the Métro-Floo as they walk through the green tunnel. Stepping through the mist, you’ll find yourself at the atrium of the British Ministry of Magic.
The official synopsis for “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” is:
“Travel by Métro-Floo from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic™ where Dolores Umbridge™ is about to stand trial. Board a lift and join Harry, Ron, and Hermione as you journey deep into the Ministry’s many departments. Thrilling adventure, fantastic beasts, and unexplored mystery await in Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry™.”
This ride queue is the most impressive one at Epic Universe. As you come out of the Métro-Floo tunnels, it feels like you’re swallowed by the massive atrium of the British Ministry of Magic, with its tall ceiling and the multiple floors of office buildings that overlook the Fountain of Magical Brethren. The sight is truly breathtaking. Proceeding through the line queue, you’ll walk through the Magical Archives library, the Aurors’ locker room, and Dolores Umbridge’s office.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
The wait for this attraction is likely to be very long, but it will give you time to take in all the details this line queue has to offer. As you walk through Umbridge’s office, you’ll find her house-elf Higgledy explaining a little about Umbridge’s trial.
Once you’ve reached the end of the line queue, you will board the magical omnidirectional lift as it makes its way to Umbridge’s trial. As she attempts to escape, the lift, along with Harry, Hermione, and Ron, gives chase throughout the Ministry. The ride has a combination of screens and practice sets, similar to “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” but on a grander scale. Even though this ride isn’t as thrilling as Monsters Unchained, what sets this ride apart is immersive storytelling and the detailed animatronics found throughout. For Harry Potter fans, this is a must.
Le Cirque Arcanus
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Head straight from the Phoenix Arch, and you’ll find “Le Cirque Arcanus”, A live show featuring cirque acts and fantastic beasts in large puppetry form. The magic begins as soon as you enter the red show tent because the line queue and the theater inside are much bigger than they look outside, similar to the effect of the charmed tent used by Hermione and Ginny after the World Cup Final.
During the pre-show, you are introduced to Ringmaster Skender and his assistant, Gwenlyn. Wanting to save his failing circus, he has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase and wants to use the magical creatures inside to draw a crowd. When Gwenlyn accidentally lets out a Demiguise. This pre-show includes magical surprises like Newtscander’s suitcase traveling through the wall into Skender’s office, and how the Demiguise crawls out of the suitcase, just like we’ve seen Scamander do in the movies.
The main show takes place inside a 550-seat theater, featuring various circus acts. The rest of the show takes place inside Scamander’s suitcase. Yes, the entire stage transforms into the inside of the suitcase, and the transition was magical to watch. As Gwenlyn looks for the Demiguise, she encounters many other magical creatures, including a very large Zouwu and the adorable Mooncalf. With special effects and intricate set designs, guests will feel surrounded by the magic of the Wizarding World.
Magical Fare
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
There is plenty to taste while you’re in the Wizarding World. Quick service dining options include Cafe L’air De La Sirène, where you can find the delectable Butterbeer crepe, Le Gobelet Noir for drinks and hearty entrees, and Bar Moonshine for a refreshing beverage.
Cafe L’air De La Sirène and Le Gobelet Noir are where you can find the most seating and be tucked away in air conditioning from the heat. Le Gobelet Noir has several dining rooms themed to its moody name, while Cafe L’air De La Sirène has one large dining area.
The Butterbeer crepe served at Cafe L’ar De La Sirène features a warm crepe with a Butterbeer filling, topped with powdered sugar, fresh strawberries, Butterbeer whipped cream, a decorative shortbread cookie, and finished with a Butterbeer drizzle. Despite the description, this was not overly sweet. If you enjoy Butterbeer in its drink form, you’ll want to try this. Aside from the Butterbeer crepe, the cafe serves a variety of sweet and savory crepes, quiches, sandwiches, salads, and more.
Le Gobelet Noir features dishes inspired by French, German, and Hungarian cuisine. Items such as Jägerschnitzel and Coqu Au Vin can be found here. Themed to its dark decor, you’ll also find Le Breuage Sombre du Gobelet Noir, which is a dark brew drink with eyes of Plimpies. Don’t worry, they are actually just yogurt popping pearls.
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These worlds within Epic Universe are unbelievable. The attention to detail has elevated the theme park experience. Every inch of each land is immersive, the designs are breathtaking, and parkgoers will have a different experience every time.
Universal Epic Universe officially opened on May 22, 2025.
Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Grand Opening. Photo: Wendy Lee Szany.
Movies that inspired Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe:
(L to R) Natalie Portman and Chris Hemsworth in Marvel’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’ Photo courtesy of Disney Studios.
With the release of ‘Thor Love & Thunder’ we are once again pushed deeper into phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Each film before it has given us little hints and glimpses into what’s next, but Taika Waititi’s brightly colored and rock-filled sequel may have been our most important glimpse into the future, and we have the end credits, little references and new characters in the film itself to thank.
During the movie, it’s revealed that actual gods have existed in the universe for centuries. I mean ‘real gods,’ I’m not talking about Celestials (though more on that later). I’m talking about Zeus, Ra, etc. Pantheons from all over the world existing and instilling fear in humans for millennia. But we’re also shown that they use humanity as grounds for worship, sacrifice … and not much else.
As the film ends, we’re shown Zeus recovering from a fight with Thor earlier in the movie. He talks about how humans don’t even think of them anymore, only seeing the costumed heroes as gods. He laments on the days when they were feared by humanity. He looks to his son, Hercules played by Brett Goldstein (‘Ted Lasso’), to send him after Thor in revenge. But what does this all mean for the future?
Marvel Comics’ Hercules. Photo courtesy of Marvel.com.
The pantheon of gods has existed in Marvel comics for decades now, first appearing all the way back in 1948 with the character of Venus in the self-titled comic published by Timely, which would eventually become Marvel Comics in the 1960s. They have many iterations in the comics, some being Inhumans or Eternals, and many others just being actual gods. But this is the first time in the MCU we have seen them appear.
Obviously, the gods are angry. Superheroes have taken their place and the jealously is boiling over. The one place we can easily see this going is a war between the gods and humanity, with Hercules being the jumping off point. First appearing in 1965, he’s not exactly a villain as the movie makes him out to be.
Hercules was a hero, even becoming a part of the Avengers at one point. But using him as a villain for Thor could spark the gods versus humans war, leading to him most likely changing sides. But that’s not all the reveal of the gods and Hercules could lead towards.
On top of the gods, ‘Love & Thunder’ gives us our first look at Eternity, literally. A being that is the embodiment of the universe. The film reveals that Eternity manifests itself as a being of pure energy. This opens the door for way more crazy cosmic stuff, as well as one-character people have been asking for forever.
Marvel Comics’ Galactus. Photo courtesy of Marvel.com.
Alongside Eternity sits Infinity … and Galactus. That’s right, something I also brought up in my ‘Eternals’ deep dive. Throughout ‘Love & Thunder’ we see subtle hints of the Planet-eater in statues and visions. Beings like him do exist in the MCU, so what’s taking him so long to show up?
Let’s be real, Galactus isn’t some one-time villain you throw in a single movie and never see again. If they were to bring the entity into the movies, he would be a Thanos-level enemy. Just way more powerful and even deadlier. And besides, we just started this new Phase.
Looking ahead, the upcoming roster screams just that. While we know next to nothing about ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’, we know that ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’ is going to bring in Adam Warlock (Will Poulter). In the comics, Warlock becomes a being called the Living Tribunal, a being so powerful he could take on Galactus.
Marvel Comics’ Adam Warlock. Photo courtesy of Marvel.com.
Introducing Adam would give the MCU a being strong enough to destroy Galactus. Without him, I honestly don’t know how Marvel can write their way out of it. Thankfully, just calling Warlock the Living Tribunal from the get-go is the best way to do this and would forego confusion from casual fans.
One last element that ‘Love and Thunder’ introduced is the character of Love, the (reincarnated) daughter of Gorr. The god of Thunder promised him he would take care of her before his death. Love was very fun for the few minutes we saw her and her personality, but while also being Chris Hemsworth’s daughter in real life, her role in the future could be huge.
We know Love was brought back to life by Eternity. Meaning she is a child with infinite potential of power. We see this already with her crazy eye beams and the fact she can control Stormbreaker like it’s nothing. This shows now, through her, just how powerful the ethereal cosmic beings of the MCU are.
What they did with Love is just a precursor to what they can do. They brought a literal child back to life, they can apparently do anything! But this one act could also show a bit of compassion from these ‘gods,’ much more than the likes of Zeus.
Christian Bale in Marvel’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’ Photo courtesy of Disney Studios.
They can do whatever they want and could have easily brought Love back as something twisted and nightmarish. But they followed Gorr’s wish to a tee and gave him back the one thing that mattered. This act is a huge reminder that Galactus may be the literal embodiment of hungering evil, but the other cosmic beings are not like him.
Phase 4 of the MCU is looking to be way bigger than the previous, especially on a cosmic scale, with ‘Thor Love & Thunder’ having so many different paths for this universe to travel. But seeing how everything connects to past films, and how it could also connect to the future, makes the threads a lot stronger and less dangling.
Personally, I think Marvel is killing it so far, and once they find that solid footing, this is going to be one phase of Marvel movies that is really going to resonate with both the casual and hardcore audiences in the years to come.
(L to R) Natalie Portman and Chris Hemsworth in Marvel’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’ Photo courtesy of Disney Studios.
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Set in 1950s London, a widowed cleaning lady named Ada Harris (Lesley Manville) becomes obsessed with a couture Dior dress and embarks on an adventure to Paris.
You can read our full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Manville, Lucas Bravo, Alba Baptista, and Jason Isaacs.
Moviefone: To begin with, can you talk about how you prepared for this role and how you wanted to convey the character to the audience?
Lesley Manville: Well, I sort of inherently understood her, because I grew up in a working-class household where my mum worked a bit and brought up three children. My dad worked. We didn’t have a lot, but we were okay.
So, I understand that world. And through other jobs that I’ve done in the past, I understood the ’50s and the cultural references, the social climate of the time. Fashion is something I’ve always been interested in, myself. I see absolutely nothing wrong with saving up your pennies to get a dress of your dreams.
MF: Finally, can you talk about why Mrs. Harris wants the dress so badly? It is not just a dress to her, it symbolizes something else to her, correct?
LM: Yeah, there is a symbolism to it, but I also think there’s this one big bit of it that is about having something beautiful in her life and appreciating it on a purely aesthetic level. So, there’s that. That doesn’t need over-analyzing.
But you are right. It’s getting the dress and acquiring it, and getting to Paris, and achieving the goal is a sort of separate thing that’s about her, I think, forging ahead as a woman on her own.
Kind of doing things that would not be expected of a woman of her class or her age. And just sort of doing it in a quiet way. She’s not being outspoken in a political sense, she’s just defying the conventions of what a woman like her is supposed to do.
Premiering on digital and On Demand beginning July 12th is the new horror thriller ‘Neon Lights,’ which was written and directed by Rouzbeh Heydari.
The new movie was written by and stars Dana Abraham as Clay Amani, a tech tycoon that brings his estranged to a remote location for a reunion. However, unbeknown to his guests, Clay is haunted by a mysterious figure named Denver (Kim Coates), which leads to a deadly killing spree.
But he is probably best remembered for his role as Alexander “Tig” Trager on FX’s ‘Sons of Anarchy,’ and recently reprised his part on the spinoff ‘Mayans M.C.’
Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Kim Coates about his new movie ‘Neon Lights,’ acting with his daughter, working with Bruce Willis on ‘The Last Boy Scout,’ the legacy of ‘Sons of Anarchy’ and reprising his role on ‘Mayans M.C.’
Kim Coates in ‘Neon Lights,’ which premieres on digital and On Demand beginning July 12th.
You can read our full interview with Kim Coates below or watch the interview by clicking on the video player above.
Moviefone: To begin with, as a producer and an actor, why did you want to be a part of this project, and what was your first reaction to the screenplay?
Kim Coates: Well, it was pretty simple, really. I mean, the pandemic just started. It was 2020 and everything was shut down. Everyone left L.A. and I went back to Canada. Around June or July of 2020, in Canada, before America, before we had all the vaccines, things started to pick up a little.
This script was thrown at me in September of 2020 and when my Canadian manager-agent brought it to me, she said, “You know what? They obviously want you bad because they need a name in this little beautiful, independent film, but there’s a part for Brenna as well.” So, I read it and Brenna, my daughter, plays Laila, the psychiatrist. So, when I read it, I had that in mind.
But I really have to tell you that this guy, Denver Kane, who I play, I can’t really say much about this guy. You need to discover this character when you’re watching the movie, because he’s freaky, he’s cocky, and this is a weird psychological thriller with a bit of horror in there. It really encompasses everything.
When I read this story, I threw everything else out. I threw me out, and Brenna out. I thought about the mental health aspect of the movie, and we’re in the middle of a pandemic or the beginning of a pandemic. What Dana Abraham did in writing this thing and starring in this thing was mind-blowing to me. So, that’s why I said yes.
Kim Coates and Erika Swayze in ‘Neon Lights,’ which premieres on digital and On Demand beginning July 12th.
MF: How do you approach playing a character that is purposefully mysterious in the screenplay?
KC: Well, that’s just a terrific question because, is he really there, is he not there? What’s happening? The beginning takes a little bit of time. It’s very freaky. You don’t know what’s going on. Then the movie really starts. Then Dana starts to sit down with his psychiatrist, played by Brenna, and we can’t say much to you after that. But then the story evolves in going to this estate with his former foster brothers and their wives, girlfriends, and a kid.
They go for this like reawakening with Dana’s character, trying to figure out who he is, and what’s happened in his life with all the trauma. He’s become this incredible tech tycoon, but his life is falling apart. My character kind of wheedles his way through the whole film with a little thread and needle and goes all the way through this film.
So, for you to bring that up and for me not to really be able to talk about it, but to let you know that I did research on trauma and early homes that possibly had a lot of trauma. So, I had to read a couple of books to try and get inside this Denver Kane’s head.
Kim Coates in ‘Neon Lights,’ which premieres on digital and On Demand beginning July 12th.
MF: As you mentioned, your daughter is also in the movie. As a father, how proud were you to work with her and see that she is following in your footsteps?
KC: How great is that, right? I mean, this kid’s been an actor her whole life. I stumbled into it in college. I took an acting class to meet some girls. I was going to be a history teacher. I didn’t know what a soliloquy even meant. Brenna’s been an actress since she’s been 4 years old. This kid did it the right way. Theatre, theatre, theatre, theatre!
She went to NYU. She auditioned for the Tisch Acting Academy. She got in, she got her degree. She did a bunch of plays there. Then she did this play called “The Wolves” on Broadway. She won a Drama Desk Award. The New York Times called it one of the greatest plays of the last 25 years.
So, Brenna needs no help from her dad. Brenna has her own movie star thing waiting to happen. She’s got two movies opening back to back, this one and another one called ‘Burden.’ She’s got another couple of offers in the fall. She loves theatre, she loves movies, she loves TV, she loves it all. But I’m very proud to see her work, man. I stayed out of her way. But she’s her own artistic, explosive girl. I’m just so proud of her, for sure.
(L to R) Bruce Willis and Kim Coates in Tony Scott’s ‘The Last Boy Scout.’
MF: Looking back at your career, you had an amazing scene with Bruce Willis in ‘The Last Boy Scout.’ In the scene, you punch him in the face and shout, “Boomba Baby!” Was that line improvised of scripted, and what are your memories of working with Bruce Willis?
KC: Yeah, that was mine. “Boomba Baby!” That was all me. Look, Bruce Willis was my first really big movie star. I’d worked with Dean Stockwell, and Kim Cattrall, but ‘The Last Boy Scout’ was my very first Hollywood movie in 1991. The late Tony Scott, I’m so sad that he’s gone, but he cast me right away.
I just got to tell you about that scene. Because I’ve been told they show that cigarette scene in all these acting classes. It’s always prefaced by “How to steal a scene from the movie star.” I got to know Bruce a little bit. Then I got to know him more on ‘Hostage.’ Then I got to know him more by hanging out with him. He’s got a lot going on right now, that poor guy, but I love him, and I always will love him. I’ve got nothing but good thing to say about Bruce Willis.
MF: Finally, can you talk about your ‘Sons of Anarchy’ experience? What was it like reprising your character on ‘Mayans M.C.’ and have you stayed close with the other cast members since the series ended?
KC: Yeah, we really have. I think it’s an anomaly. I think it’s a one-off. I think of those seven years on ‘Sons’ and how did we still love one another? It was a very volatile, weird, dark, and beautiful time. That show got more and more violent as it went along. But those seven years were amazing.
To do the ‘Mayans’ and to play Tig again after like eight years, it was great. I still have my bike outside. I had such a terrific time on that show. The best.
( L to R) Mark Boone Jr., Charlie Hunnam, Tommy Flanagan, and Kim Coates in FX’s ‘Sons of Anarchy.’
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Directed by Rob Minkoff (‘The Lion King’), the movie focuses on Hank (Michael Cera), a down-on-his-luck dog who is trained to be a samurai by his mentor, a cat named Jimbo (Samuel L. Jackson). Now, Hank and Jimbo must protect a village of cats from the evil Ika Chu (Ricky Gervais) who wants to wage war on them.
Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Cera about his work on Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank,’ meeting Mel Brooks, whether he is a dog or cat person, and working with Samuel L. Jackson and director Rob Minkoff.
Michael Cera plays Hank in Paramount’s ‘Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank.’
You can read our full interview with Michael Cera below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Cera, George Takei, Aasif Mandvi, Cathy Shim, Kylie Kuioka, and director Rob Minkoff.
Moviefone: To begin with, what was your reaction when you heard they were making an animated movie loosely based on Mel Brooks’ classic ‘Blazing Saddles?’
Michael Cera: It sounded great to me, and the whole team just sounded great. I felt like it was a very lucky thing to be a part of.
MF: Did you get a chance to meet Mel Brooks?
MC: Not on this project. I have not overlapped with him at all, but I did get to meet him in his office several years ago. It must have been 10 years ago now on the Culver City lot in Los Angeles.
I just went over and paid him a visit in his office, and we got to sit with him for a half an hour and chat. That was just an amazing thing for me. He was so sweet, and it was a great half hour of my life.
MF: In your own words, how would you describe Hank and how did you find the voice for the character?
MC: He’s a dog that has a very strong sense of his destiny and his dream, and he’s fully committed to that. His heart is completely behind that, and he’s willing to go through whatever hardship is thrown his way to achieve it. I like that about him. I think that’s an admirable quality about the character.
Finding the voice, I think came from just understanding the character slowly and kind of working with the creative team on bringing him to life. It just kind of comes through osmosis, through trying things, I guess.
Michael Cera as “Hank” and Samuel L. Jackson as “Jimbo” in ‘Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank’ from Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon Movies, Align, and Aniventure.
MF: Can you talk about Hank’s friendship with Jimbo, who is played by Samuel L. Jackson?
MC: Well, Jimbo is the reason that Hank wants to be a Samurai, even though he doesn’t realize that when he meets him because Jimbo came to Hank’s rescue when he was a little puppy.
So, there’s sort of a troubled relationship between them because Jimbo’s this inspiring figure to Hank who’s turned into such a shell of his former self. But Hank revives the old fire in him and kind of help each other in that way.
MF: Can you talk about the recording process and working with director Rob Minkoff?
MC: Working with Rob was amazing. Rob is an incredible guy, he’s got an incredible career and he even came up under (legendary animator) Chuck Jones. We were talking about Chuck Jones last time I saw him.
So, he’s just kind of from this world of legendary animators. Having a guy like that to collaborate with is exciting because they just know this space so well, and the fundamentals of it and of character and of bringing all the emotions forward. So, it was great. It was very educational and very fun.
MF: Finally, are you a dog or cat person?
MC: I really couldn’t say because I really love all cats and dogs, and I’ve had great experiences all around with them. So, I wouldn’t exclude any from my life.
Michael Cera plays Hank in Paramount’s ‘Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank.’
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Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down and speaking with Chris Hemsworth in-person about his work on ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’
Chris Hemsworth in Marvel’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’ Photo courtesy of Disney Studios.
Moviefone: To begin with, people are going back to the theaters and Marvel fans are really excited to see ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ on the big screen. Is there anything you’d like to say directly to the fans as they’re getting ready to sit down and watch this movie?
Chris Hemsworth: I’d say, strap in, and get ready for the wildest wacky Marvel adventure you’ve ever been on.
MF: You’ve played this character for over ten years now in multiple films, what does playing Thor mean to you personally?
CH: Well, it’s paralleled my life. My whole career has been instructed around playing this character and being a part of the Marvel universe. It’s an absolute honor and a dream, and it’s such a special thing to be able to come back and play the character again, and with a different cast, different directors and trying different things. If you asked me when I first started acting what my dream career looked like, this was well above and beyond anything I could have imagined. So, I’m thankful.
(L to R) Natalie Portman and Chris Hemsworth in Marvel’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’ Photo courtesy of Disney Studios.
You can read the full interview with Chris Hemsworth below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Hemsworth and Natalie Portman.
MF: Can you talk about reuniting with Natalie Portman on this movie and the different dynamic between Jane Foster and Thor this time around?
CH: It was great. I started this journey with Natalie eleven years ago, and now to reunite and see her back dressed like Thor was so impressive. It was fun and unique. It did immediately change the paradigm of the space, and my character and his interaction. That’s what you want. You want your fellow actors and actresses to manipulate the scene. You want them to throw something in there that dramatically shifts your interpretation of it, and then it becomes unpredictable and it becomes unique.
She’s incredible and so much fun. She is a dear friend of mine. As I said, back on the first film, and we were just talking about this earlier today, she was so kind to me. To think that she’d won an Oscar, she was Natalie Portman, and this was my first job. I thought, I’m going to be fired or replaced at some point. But she was encouraging, supportive, and wonderful. I’m really thankful for that. I think about where it all started and so much of it, I think, the path that I was set on was due to that collaboration.
MF: Finally, after working with him on ‘Thor: Ragnarok,’ what was the collaboration like on set between you and director Taika Waititi making ‘Thor: Love and Thunder?’
CH: It’s just about embodying the same thing we did in ‘Ragnarok,’ which is a sense of adventure and fun. If you’d asked a couple of five-year-olds what they wanted to see in a movie, that’s what this film is. That was us kind of riffing and throwing more and more ridiculous elements into it.
Again, he’s another very close friend of mine and to have that space to experiment, improvise and try different things, often that’s a little daunting. You don’t know what the director’s going to do with that in the edit room and how you’re going to look, but I have complete trust and faith in him. It’s a safe space to just go for it and I know he’s going to have my back.
Chris Hemsworth plays Thor in Marvel’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder,’ which opens in theaters on July 8th.
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One 2008’s UK Stars of Tomorrow, Carey Mulligan has spent the last decade building an impressive and diverse filmography, proving herself to be one of the most fearless performers of her generation. With her latest films Promising Young Woman arriving on VOD and The Dig in limited release this week, now seems like the perfect time to take a look at her most essential roles.
An Education (2009)
Mulligan as Jenny in ‘An Education’
Although she made her debut in Joe Wright’s 2005 adaptation of Pride & Prejudice, it was her startlingly fresh performance as Jenny in the Best Picture nominated An Education that put her on everyone’s radar – and earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. Directed by Lone Scherfig and adapted by Nick Hornby from Lynn Barber’s memoir of the same name, Mulligan plays Jenny, a wise beyond her years schoolgirl in 1960s England who finds herself romantically entangled with an older man (Peter Sarsgaard) after her gives her a ride home in rain. Mulligan is radiant in this role, commanding every scene she’s in, even when up against heavyweights like Alfred Molina and Emma Thompson. The opening credits read “and introducing Carey Mulligan as Jenny” and what an introduction indeed.
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Never Let Me Go (2010)
Domnhall Gleeson, Carey Mulligan, and Keira Knightley in ‘Never Let Me Go’
In Mark Romanek and Alex Garland’s take on this dystopian Kazuo Ishiguro story, Mulligan again plays a schoolgirl, this time in an alternate history version of England in which medical advances have extended the human lifespan beyond 100 years. Mulligan’s Kathy H. is joined by Keira Knightley and Andrew Garfield, who discover that they are clones who have been raised for the sole purpose of having their organs donated. It’s a bleak premise, but Mulligan imbues her character with a rich interiority expressed through her soulful gaze as she observes the outward torments of her co-stars, mining the all-too human truth that no matter what one day we all “complete.”
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Shame (2011)
Mulligan as Sissy in ‘Shame’
In 2011 Mulligan stepped back from leading roles, instead delivering a pair of memorable supporting performances in Nicolas Winding Refn’s Drive and Steve McQueen’s Shame. Acting opposite Michael Fassbender as a sex addict in a downward spiral, Mulligan plays his sister Sissy, a lounge singer – her rendition of New York, New York is a standout moment in the film – with her own emotional issues. Radically changing her appearance with a shock of bleached blonde hair, Mulligan brings a vulnerability reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe in Don’t Bother To Knock.
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The Great Gatsby (2013)
Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton in ‘The Great Gatsby’
The quintessential Great American Novel, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s story has been adapted for the screen a few times, but never with as much panache as Baz Luhrmann’s take on the myth of the American Dream. Mulligan plays Daisy Buchanan, the memory of whom Leonardo DiCaprio’s titular Gatsby is obsessed. Daisy is a complicated creature, a woman of her time and of her station. She was raised to be a rich man’s wife, ill-prepared for the real love offered by Gatsby (who himself is ill-prepared for many real things). Mulligan brings her signature ferocity to this role; you can feel her internal struggle as she longs for something more, but lacks the courage to reach for it.
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Mudbound (2016)
Mulligan as Laura in ‘Mudbound’
You can feel the titular mud permeating from the screen in this Oscar-nominated film from writer-director Dee Rees. Set during and just after WWII, Mulligan plays Laura, the wife of a farmer in the Mississippi Delta, who finds herself overwhelmed by the dirt and mud and traditions that she cannot rise above and at odds with her racist father-in-law. Eventually Laura finds solace in a relationship with her husband’s brother, who self-medicates with alcohol to deal with his PTSD from the war. Shot by cinematographer Rachel Morrison, Mulligan feels like a portrait by Dorothea Lange or Walker Evans brought to vivid life, her anger and disillusionment writ large on her stone face. Laura is a woman hardened by her situation, but through Mulligan’s finely tuned performance, we feel the inextinguishable flame deep within her and know she’ll find the strength to rise above it.
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Wildlife (2018)
Carey Mulligan and Jake Gyllenhaal in ‘Wildlife’
In Paul Dano’s directorial debut, which he co-wrote with Zoe Kazan, Mulligan plays Jeannette, a woman whose life changes drastically when her husband Jerry (Jake Gyllenhaal) abandons his family to fight a raging forest fire. Also set in the early 1960s like An Education, Jeannette feels like a spiritual twin to Jenny, a fierce woman with an idea of what life could be that is at odds with the role she finds available to herself as a wife and a mother. As her marriage falls apart, Jeannette speaks candidly with her son Joe (Ed Oxenbould) about its difficulties, the disappointments, and the failings she finds in herself, in her husband, in the life they lead as a family; she says the quiet part out loud. In these candid conversations with her son, Mulligan’s line delivery is terse, rather than melodramatic; you feel her weariness, but you also feel the love she has for her son and the determination that he sees things as they really are, not as some sanitized fairy tale of happily ever after.
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Promising Young Woman is in select theaters and on VOD. The Dig is now in select theaters and on Netflix on 1/29.
How many among us can say their childhood dream was realized? When he was 11, young Montanan Brad Bird visited Walt Disney Studios and declared he would join its animation team. After completing his first animation at 13 and working with legendary Disney animators as a hobby, Disney later awarded him with a scholarship to attend California Institute of the Arts. The rest is cinematic history, and to celebrate his birthday, here are some films he’s gifted us with.
‘The Iron Giant’ (1999)
This sweet story of friendship during the Cold War in 1957 focuses on a young boy named Hogarth (Eli Marienthal), and a giant robot (Vin Diesel) that Hogarth finds trying to eat power lines. Once they realize neither has hostile intent, they focus on the more challenging problem of keeping him hidden from the government agent searching for him. As he takes shelter in the local junkyard, the Giant’s softer side is revealed time and time again, whether it’s saving lives, learning about Superman, or processing the concept of death. But all good things, including hanging out with robot best friends and evading the government, must end. Or…do they?
‘The Incredibles’ (2004)
Before the Avengers were dealing with ramifications of tearing up cities in their quest to preserve civilization, there was this family of five living in Metroville. Since bystanders were suing, being a superhero is now outlawed—and the greatest superhero in Metroville, Mr. Incredible (Craig T. Nelson), now has to be known as…Bob. He’s selling insurance, although he dreams of going back to serving the public in big, splashy ways, as opposed to quietly helping individuals get their claims settled with his corrupt bosses. Unbeknownst to his wife Helen (Holly Hunter), he has been undergoing secret missions, until he realizes that he’s being played by a new super villain and they need to come save the day together.
‘Ratatouille’ (2007)
Brad Bird figured out how to bridge the great divide between restaurants and rats with the help of Patton Oswalt as Remy, the rat who dreams of being a chef. He seizes the moment when he sees Alfredo Linguini (Lou Romano), a kitchen garbage boy, screwing up a pot of soup he spilled, and steps (Crawls? Scuttles?) in to fix all his mistakes. When it’s a huge hit with the restaurant patrons, they keep Linguini on as a trainee, and Remy takes up residence under Linguini’s toque. Together, through ups and downs and health code violations, they forge a friendship and a glowing review from a cynical food critic (Peter O’Toole).
‘Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol’ (2011)
Five years prior, Mission: Impossible III hit a critical low and what is now the second-lowest lifetime gross in the series. While still considered successful, if ever there was a time to jumpstart a franchise, 2011 would have been it, and Bird and the gang of beleaguered IMF agents delivered. Yet again, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his IMF team are disavowed (are they ever avowed?) after a bombing of the Kremlin that gets pinned on Hunt. There’s the usual amount of trickery and action in this film, but certain sequences like the tower in Dubai with Tom Cruise, whipping wind, and a pair of what appeared to be Nintendo Power Gloves were unforgettable.
Sylvester Stallone has grumbled, muscled, and sweat his way into cinema history as one of our more prolific creators. To trumpet the release of Rambo: Last Blood in theaters this week, we tied on our own red bandanna (which has way more dried blood on it than you’d expect) and dug through Stallone’s filmography to determine which movie jobs Stallone has done the most. And a shout to the job he did the least and pulled off the most, which was be a lion in ‘Zookeeper’ (2011). DRIVER: 5 A handful of times, Stallone got behind the wheel to race straight into our hearts. Special attention should be paid to the often-forgotten-sometimes-on-purpose gem ‘Rhinestone’ (1984). Early in his career, he also starred in the original version of ‘Death Race 2000’ (1975) which could be useful viewing for how to maneuver the inevitable crash of monetary currency and apocalyptic conditions we all face in real life. LAW ENFORCEMENT: 9 Stallone embodies the kind of person we want keeping us safe: strong neck muscles who looks good in aviator shades. Don’t forget that ‘Cobra’ (1986) features a climax in the “flaming hook and chain” factory. Plus, a challenge to people who strut around wearing ironic ‘Golden Girls’ merch: ’Stop or My Mom Will Shoot’ (1992) features Estelle Getty from the show. You could buy a tee shirt and pretend to love Sophia from Sicily, or you could watch this film and embody true love. C’mon. We dare you. PROFESSIONAL CRIMINAL: 10 You can’t expect a guy with street smarts and bedroom eyes to uphold the law all the time. Stallone goes from being deep in the game in ‘Capone’ (1975), to promising to get out of the game in ‘Oscar’ (1991). ATHLETE/COACH: 11 Of all his roles, one could argue he’s made the most impact over generations with his roles as an athlete and coach. ‘Rocky’ (1976) has spawned six sequels and the ire of everyone named Adrian because their name gets hollered so much. You get bonus points if you read this and exclaimed “Rocky could ALSO be on the criminal list!” You’re not wrong, but it’s our list, so what we say goes. SOLDIER/MERCENARY: 12 Sylvester Stallone has most often taken roles on both sides of the good guy/bad guy aspect of military skills. Often he’s in charge, assembling a team in ’The Expendables’ (2010) Sylvester Stallone has grumbled, muscled, and sweat his way into cinema history as one of our more prolific creators. To trumpet the release of Rambo: Last Blood in theaters this week, we tied on our own red bandanna (which has way more dried blood on it than you’d expect) and dug through Stallone’s filmography to determine which movie jobs Stallone has done the most.
And a shout to the job he did the least and pulled off the most, which was be a lion in ‘Zookeeper’ (2011).
DRIVER: 5
A handful of times, Stallone got behind the wheel to race straight into our hearts. Special attention should be paid to the often-forgotten-sometimes-on-purpose gem ‘Rhinestone’ (1984). Early in his career, he also starred in the original version of ‘Death Race 2000’ (1975) which could be useful viewing for how to maneuver the inevitable crash of monetary currency and apocalyptic conditions we all face in real life.
LAW ENFORCEMENT: 9
Stallone embodies the kind of person we want keeping us safe: strong neck muscles who looks good in aviator shades. Don’t forget that ‘Cobra’ (1986) features a climax in the “flaming hook and chain” factory. Plus, a challenge to people who strut around wearing ironic ‘Golden Girls’ merch: ’Stop or My Mom Will Shoot’ (1992) features Estelle Getty from the show. You could buy a tee shirt and pretend to love Sophia from Sicily, or you could watch this film and embody true love. C’mon. We dare you.
PROFESSIONAL CRIMINAL: 10
You can’t expect a guy with street smarts and bedroom eyes to uphold the law all the time. Stallone goes from being deep in the game in ‘Capone’ (1975), to promising to get out of the game in ‘Oscar’ (1991).
ATHLETE: 11
Of all his roles, one could argue he’s made the most impact over generations with his roles as an athlete (sometimes turned coach). ‘Rocky’ (1976) has spawned six sequels and the ire of everyone named Adrian because their name gets hollered so much. You get bonus points if you read this and exclaimed “Rocky could ALSO be on the criminal list!” You’re not wrong, but it’s our list, so what we say goes, and it’s the punching that’s important in that film.
SOLDIER & MERCENARY: 12
Normally when Sly takes on a role, it’s been as a character with military skills. Almost half of these movies star Rambo, which, when combined with Rocky, has to be some kind of record, but that’s another list for when the next James Bond movie comes out. This list contains the most animated movies, which seems like a weird coincidence and a statement about the military-industrial complex and indoctrination that we’re not prepared to make on a Friday when we have to go see Rambo: Last Blood and count how many buckets of blood are spilled.
Carey Mulligan in ‘Promising Young Woman’
Mulligan as Jenny in ‘An Education’
Domnhall Gleeson, Carey Mulligan, and Keira Knightley in ‘Never Let Me Go’
Mulligan as Sissy in ‘Shame’
Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton in ‘The Great Gatsby’
Mulligan as Laura in ‘Mudbound’
Carey Mulligan and Jake Gyllenhaal in ‘Wildlife’
