Tag: bob-odenkirk

  • Movie Review: ‘Normal’

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    In theaters on April 10 is ‘Normal’, a new action comedy starring Bob Odenkirk (‘Nobody’), directed by Ben Wheatley (‘Free Fire’).

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    The cast also includes Lena Headey (‘Game of Thrones’), Billy MacLellan (‘The Silence’), Henry Winkler (‘Barry’), Ryan Allen (‘In the Shadow of the Moon’), Jess McLeod (‘One of Us is Lying’), Reena Jolly (‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’) and Brendan Fletcher (‘Violent Night’).

    Related Article: Bob Odenkirk to Star for Director Ben Wheatley in Action Pic ‘Normal’

    Initial Thoughts

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    Bob Odenkirk has been proving for a while that he’s more than just a comedian and comic actor; the depth he brought to Saul Goodman across the ‘Breaking Bad’ TV universe was key, but he also showed real action chops in the two ‘Nobody’ movies.

    With ‘Normal’, he’s much more back in the latter two films’ wheelhouse, playing someone who has to confront a violent situation. But while ‘Nobody’ and its sequel certainly have some dark laughs, this latest outing raises the comic stakes and ups the deadly inventiveness.

    Script and Direction

    Ben Wheatley, director of 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    Ben Wheatley, director of ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    Based on an idea by Odenkirk and Derek Kolstad (better known for the ‘John Wick’ franchise, but also responsible for cranking out scripts for the ‘Nobody’ movies and the ‘Die Hart’ outings), ‘Normal’ certainly leans on comedy to leaven the action madness.

    While most of the characters are archetypes (and some are disposable cannon fodder), there’s enough care and attention given to the setup to make you invest in the story once the bullets (and more) start flying.

    Ben Wheatley, meanwhile, might be best known in the States for ‘Meg 2: The Trench’ and ‘Free Fire,’ but his UK work is deeply rooted in dark humor, and he’s certainly a good choice for this one, bringing a devilish sense of invention to the chaos.

    Cast and Performances

    Henry Winkler in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    Henry Winkler in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    Odenkirk obviously gets the lion’s share of character work, bringing to life the troubled Ulysses Richardson, interim sheriff who quickly realizes that the quirky small town he’s been hired to protect has some very deep, dark secrets.

    But around him, there are plenty of standout characters, including Henry Winkler’s cheerful, sweary Mayor Kibner, Reena Jolly and Brendan Fletcher as a seemingly criminal couple whose ambitions light the fuse on the powder keg that is the town. Also worth watching? Ryan Allen as Deputy Blaine Anderson, who has one eye on the top job in the town’s law enforcement.

    Final Thoughts

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Normal'. Photo: Magnolia Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Normal’. Photo: Magnolia Pictures.

    Utterly ridiculous but also a lot of fun, ‘Normal’ presents as a crossbreed of ‘Hot Fuzz’ (new lawman confronts a small locale’s dark secrets) and the ‘Final Destination’ franchise (in the sheer invention of some of its deaths).

    Don’t go in expecting high art, but it’s a wild ride with plenty to enjoy.

    ‘Normal’ receives 72 out of 100.

    (L to R) Bob Odenkirk and Jess McLeod in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    (L to R) Bob Odenkirk and Jess McLeod in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    What is the plot of ‘Normal’?

    Ulysses (Bob Odenkirk) comes to the sleepy town of Normal, Minnesota to serve as the temporary sheriff after the passing of the original sheriff. A bank robbery in Normal leads Ulysses to find that a criminal underground reaches throughout the entire town.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Normal’?

    • Bob Odenkirk as Sheriff Ulysses
    • Henry Winkler as Mayor Kibner of Normal
    • Lena Headey as Moira
    • Reena Jolly as Lori
    • Ryan Allen as Deputy Blaine Anderson
    • Billy MacLellan as Deputy Mike Nelson
    • Brendan Fletcher as Keith
    • Peter Shinkoda as Joe
    • Jess McLeod as Alex
    (L to R) Lena Headey and Bob Odenkirk in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    (L to R) Lena Headey and Bob Odenkirk in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    List of Ben Wheatley Movies:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Normal’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Bob Odenkirk Movies on Amazon

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  • ‘Normal’ Interview: Bob Odenkirk, Lena Headey and More

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    Opening in theaters on April 17th is the new action thriller ‘Normal’, which was directed by Ben Wheatley (‘Free Fire’), and stars Bob Odenkirk (‘Nobody’), Lena Headey (‘Game of Thrones’) and Henry Winkler (‘Barry’).

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    (L to R) Bob Odenkirk and Lena Headey star in 'Normal'.
    (L to R) Bob Odenkirk and Lena Headey star in ‘Normal’.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Bob Odenkirk, Lena Headey and Henry Winkler about their work on ‘Normal’, developing the screenplay, the characters, working with each other, the action sequences and collaborating with director Ben Wheatley.

    You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Odenkirk, Headey, Winkler, and Jess McLeod.

    Related Article: Movie Review: ‘Nobody 2’

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    Moviefone: To begin with, Bob, can you talk about your first reaction to writer Derek Kolstad’s pitch for this movie and what were some of the elements you helped add in the development process?

    Bob Odenkirk: Well, Derek had written an outline for this story, and I liked it because it was unlike a lot of action films. It had story to it. It had character to it. It was almost like three movies in one. The first film is a mystery suspense with comedy, but it’s kind of like a Lake Wobegone town, if you know that reference from Garrison Keillor’s ‘Prairie Home Companion’. It’s a small town in Minnesota. There are funny characters in there, squabbling and being stupid. Then it turns into this action film and then it has horror elements in it in the later part of the film. So, again, unlike a lot of action stories, it had texture and it had character, and some depth to the characters. That’s just different. I mean, that’s not actually something you see in a lot of action films, outlines, or scripts.

    Henry Winkler stars in 'Normal'.
    Henry Winkler stars in ‘Normal’.

    MF: Henry, what was your first reaction to the screenplay and what excited you about playing a character like this?

    Henry Winkler: Okay. Bob is a friend; he and Naomi is beautiful wife. We have had pasta together. He called me up, he said, “Henry, I’m doing a movie. Would you be part of it?” I didn’t have to read the script. I just said yes. I went up to Winnipeg. I played the wonderful mayor of the town. He is the interim sheriff. Little does he know there is chaos below the surface. He said, “We’re going to have a confrontation. I’m going to put you in the most comfortable position to have that confrontation. I’m going to put you in a blizzard.” That’s how it goes.

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    MF: Lena, can you talk about your character’s role in this town and how she feels about the new Sheriff?

    Lena Headey: I think Bob just wanted someone who would wear a pair of overalls. I love Moira. She’s kind of a little weird. She’s a little eaten by life and when Bob’s character rolls up, there’s a recognition between the two of them and suspicion. Yet, a kind of emotional deficit where they don’t discuss anything they truly like to discuss. So, they kind of skirt around like two snakes a little bit, figuring out who the other is.

    (L to R) Brendan Fletcher, Bob Odenkirk and Reena Jolly in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    (L to R) Brendan Fletcher, Bob Odenkirk and Reena Jolly in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    MF: Bob, what is Ulysses’ reaction to meeting Moira and discovering what is really going on in this small town?

    BO: She is the smartest character in town. I mean, arguably Henry Winkler’s character is very smart too, but not really. He’s just got it an antenna for things, but Moira sees Ulysses and fully grasps the danger of Ulysses, but just the way he sees the world and the details that he sees. So, they really connect and kind of right away. They’re both people who are, in the case of the character Moira, she’s a bartender, and she talks about, you know, “I spend a lot of time listening to people, and I can pick apart what they’re saying, and I can understand the subtext, essentially.” Ulysses, as you see in the movie ‘Normal’ is also somewhat removed from the world around him and is always observing on a very high level. I think that’d be a good team if they weren’t opposing forces.

    (L to R) Lena Headey and Bob Odenkirk in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    (L to R) Lena Headey and Bob Odenkirk in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    MF: Lena, what was it like working with Bob on your scenes?

    LH: I was only there for a few days, and I was a little nervous because you’re going onto somebody else’s job and story and character and you’re stepping on for a few days. So, it’s always that thing of like, I hope I bring it. But Bob and Ben were both super collaborative and warm and open.

    MF: Bob, what was your experience like working with Lena?

    BO: I mean, one of us got a master class in acting and I think it was me. She always brings it, you can be sure of that and nobody else could have played this character, Moira, like Lena did. I mean, the depth and the texture and the smile in her performance, and the smile for the audience. They know the purpose of her character right away, which is to cut open the story and lay it bare for you.

    Henry Winkler in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    Henry Winkler in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    MF: Henry, you mentioned you and Bob are friends and you have some intense scenes together. What was it like for you shooting those scenes with Bob?

    HW: As an actor your job is to separate the friendship and the reality of where you are, what’s going on in the world, and bring it right in to telling the story, to take the audience with you so that they have a really good time. So, that was not difficult and then when you are in a scene with him, he is so present that you literally just have a conversation with this guy, the interim sheriff, who is figuring out the real problem under the town’s energy.

    Ben Wheatley, director of 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    Ben Wheatley, director of ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    MF: Finally, Henry, as a director yourself, what did you learn from working with director Ben Wheatley and watching the way he makes movies?

    HW: First, Ben is very easygoing and he’s just this big hulk of a guy. He comes up to you and he goes, “Do you think you should bring that down a little? Do you think your energy might be a little high?” Any actor who thinks they can do it without a third eye, is a liar. You need somebody who’s got the vision, and Bob and Ben knew exactly the story they wanted to tell. My job is not just to play the mayor, but my job is to fulfill their vision.

    (L to R) Bob Odenkirk and Jess McLeod in 'Normal', a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
    (L to R) Bob Odenkirk and Jess McLeod in ‘Normal’, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

    What is the plot of ‘Normal’?

    Ulysses (Bob Odenkirk) comes to the sleepy town of Normal, Minnesota to serve as the temporary sheriff after the passing of the original sheriff. A bank robbery in Normal leads Ulysses to find that a criminal underground reaches throughout the entire town.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Normal’?

    'Normal' opens in theaters on April 17th.
    ‘Normal’ opens in theaters on April 17th.

    List of Ben Wheatley Movies:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Normal’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Bob Odenkirk Movies on Amazon

     

  • Beyond Fest Announces Beyond Chicago Spin-Off

    Beyond Fest Chicago 2026 runs April 2-5.
    Beyond Fest Chicago 2026 runs April 2-5.

    Preview:

    • Beyond Fest is launching a Beyond Chicago spin-off.
    • Movies including ‘Obsession’ and the new ‘Faces of Death’ will screen.
    • It’ll run between April 2-5 at the Music Box Theatre.

      While we more commonly associate Beyond Fest with its annual fall screening in Los Angeles, the team is looking to take the show on the road.

    A new regional spin-off, Beyond Chicago, is planned to happen in the Music Box Theatre venue next month, promising the likes of new Bob Odenkirk-starrer ‘Normal’ and a special 35mm screening of the Shaw Brothers classic, ‘The Kid with the Golden Arm.’

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    Related Article: Beyond Fest’s Full 2025 Line Up Includes ‘Bugonia’ and ‘Black Phone 2’

    What other movies will screen at Beyond Chicago?

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Normal'. Photo: Magnolia Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Normal’. Photo: Magnolia Pictures.

    Tied to ‘Normal,’ Odenkirk will be introducing a print of 1974’s original ‘The Taking of Pelham One Two Three’, while the action madness continues via stunt icon k bringing his instantly infamous epic-fight-fest, ‘The Furious’ to Chicago.

    In addition to brand new movies, there will also be screenings of restorations, including a 4K version of ‘Speed Racer’ introduced by co-director Lilly Wachowski in person, while a late night screening of 1973’s ‘Flesh for Frankenstein’ in 3D is planned as a tribute to the late Udo Kier.

    How can I get tickets for Beyond Chicago?

    Emile Hirsch in 2008's 'Speed Racer.'
    Emile Hirsch in 2008’s ‘Speed Racer.’

    The event runs between April 2-5 at the Music Box.

    Tickets are on sale to members on March 5 and general public on March 6. Free tickets for Screen 2 will be available to Music Box members on Wednesday 1 April and general public on Thursday 2 April.

    For more information, visit beyondfest.com and musicboxtheatre.com.

    A scene from 'The Yeti'. Photo: Well Go USA.
    A scene from ‘The Yeti’. Photo: Well Go USA.

    Selected List of Movies Playing at Beyond Chicago:

    Buy Bob Odenkirk Movies and TV on Amazon

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  • Movie Review: ‘Nobody 2’

    (L to R) Brady Mansell (Gage Munroe), Sammy Mansell (Paisley Cadorath), Hutch Mansell (Bob Odenkirk), David Mansell (Christopher Lloyd) and Becca Mansell (Connie Nielsen) in 'Nobody 2', directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    (L to R) Brady Mansell (Gage Munroe), Sammy Mansell (Paisley Cadorath), Hutch Mansell (Bob Odenkirk), David Mansell (Christopher Lloyd) and Becca Mansell (Connie Nielsen) in ‘Nobody 2’, directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    ‘Nobody 2’ receives 3.5 out of 10 stars.

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    Opening in theaters August 15 is ‘Nobody 2,’ directed by Timo Tjahjanto and starring Bob Odenkirk, Connie Nielsen, RZA, Colin Hanks, John Ortiz, Colin Salmon, Christopher Lloyd, and Sharon Stone.

    Related Article: Bob Odenkirk to Star for Director Ben Wheatley in Action Pic ‘Normal’

    Initial Thoughts

    Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in 'Nobody 2', directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in ‘Nobody 2’, directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    With the original ‘Nobody’ in 2021, writer Derek Kolstad, director Ilya Naishuller, and star Bob Odenkirk found a way to freshen up the action subgenre in which a seemingly ordinary guy turns out to be a deadly assassin who only reluctantly deploys his brutal skills. The key was Odenkirk, who managed to make Hutch Mansell’s transformation from dyspeptic husband and dad into lethal killer funny, believable, and even a little sad.

    A mild hit, ‘Nobody’ didn’t seem like it would be instant sequel fodder, but here we are. Except that four years later, with increasingly tired retreads of the same tropes like ‘Love Hurts,’ ‘A Working Man,’ and ‘Novocaine’ coming out in the last year alone, ‘Nobody 2’ simply offers up more of the same. Only it doesn’t even have the rudimentary character development of the first film; this one, directed by Indonesian action filmmaker Timo Tjahjanto, can’t find the same relatively successful blend of comedy and action and quickly turns silly, with the thin plot used mainly to stretch the film from one numbing action sequence to another. Odenkirk is watchable as always, but ‘Nobody 2’ is a sequel that fails to justify its existence.

    Story and Direction

    (L to R) Bob Odenkirk and director Timo Tjahjanto on the set of 'Nobody 2'. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    (L to R) Bob Odenkirk and director Timo Tjahjanto on the set of ‘Nobody 2’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    The movie begins the same way as the first one: with an injured Hutch in an interrogation room, facing two FBI agents who want to know who he is (only this time he’s not alone). Cue the title card and a rewind to a few days earlier. Hutch is back to full-time assassination work to pay off the $30 million debt he owes the government for covering the Russian mob money he torched in the first movie. His nonstop schedule has distanced him from his kids and his wife Becca (Connie Nielsen, with a bit more to do this time), who is also feeling them drift apart.

    Hutch decides he needs a break and rounds up the family for a vacation to Plummerville, home of Wild Bill’s Majestic Midway and Waterpark, an amusement park which Hutch’s dad David (Christopher Lloyd) took him and his brother Harry (RZA) when they were kids. “Making memories” is the goal, and Hutch even brings his dad along to relive what he considered one of the happiest times of his life. But as his handler (Colin Salmon) warns: “The job is in your nature, and nature always wins.”

    Sure enough, they’re barely at the park for a day when Hutch’s son runs afoul of some bullies at the arcade, leading to a violent altercation between Hutch and some security guards. That puts him on the radar of the park’s owner, Wyatt Martin (John Ortiz) and the corrupt Sheriff Abel (Colin Hanks), both of whom work for the psychopathic crime queen Lendina (Sharon Stone). Plummerville has become a front for Lendina’s nefarious drug and gun-running operation, and Hutch is not welcome.

    Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in 'Nobody 2', directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in ‘Nobody 2’, directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    That’s about as far as the plot gets before it turns, as mentioned earlier, into just an excuse for escalating mayhem. Despite Odenkirk’s normal guy façade, Hutch is all but a superhero; he gets out of every scrape with a few dings (okay, and a missing fingertip) while leaving everyone else bashed to a pulp on the floor. No one in his family or his eventual team (which includes his dad, of course, as well as Harry – RZA showing up for a day’s work – and an ally one can see coming from a mile away) ever seems like they’re truly in danger, which makes the stakes for the characters almost non-existent.

    And that’s what ultimately lets the air out of this largely joyless affair. Tjahjanto, making his Hollywood debut here after films like ‘May the Devil Take You,’ can speed up or slow down the action all he wants, but he doesn’t really do anything creative or exciting with it. It’s just Odenkirk (or his fight double) pummeling generic bad guys over and over again in increasingly silly and frenetic ways. The characterizations are skin-deep, and even the big bad, Sharon Stone’s Lendina, feels like she’s barely in the movie (which runs about 82 minutes before credits).

    The film also utilizes the now customary gag of playing some upbeat pop standard underneath each scene of bone-crunching violence or destruction — as ironic counterpoint, we suppose — but it’s been done to death and isn’t amusing anymore. Then of course, there’s the montage where Hutch and friends prepare death traps in the amusement park in what seems like a full afternoon’s work, while Lendina and her army drive there at approximately two miles an hour. Meanwhile, the seeds of interesting ideas – mainly centering around Hutch’s influence on his kids and his relationship with Becca – are given lip service and then tossed aside without even bothering at a resolution.

    Cast and Performances

    Sharon Stone as Lendina in 'Nobody 2', directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    Sharon Stone as Lendina in ‘Nobody 2’, directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    We’ll give credit where credit is due: Bob Odenkirk works hard to bring Hutch and the picture to life, and he commits to both the bit and the action in a way that at least seems honest. He’s the main reason one sticks with ‘Nobody 2,’ even if it sometimes feels like he’s alternating between two expressions – downtrodden and mad – the whole movie. As noted earlier, Connie Nielsen is kept a little busier this time around, but the simmering tension between Becca and Hutch never pays off.

    As for the rest of the cast, the work is mostly phoned in. Ortiz and Hanks handle their paper-thin bad guys as best they can, while Christopher Lloyd and RZA look happy to be getting paid just to show up and stand around (the latter especially is barely in the film). As for Sharon Stone, she vamps and screeches and gyrates and generally chews up all the scenery she can find, but the character is so underwritten than even Stone going full psycho can’t make her particularly interesting.

    Final Thoughts

    Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in 'Nobody 2', directed by Timo Tjahjanto. © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
    Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in ‘Nobody 2’, directed by Timo Tjahjanto. © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

    If Timo Tjahjanto set out to bring any of the flavor of his work in Indonesia to a Hollywood action/comedy film, it doesn’t make an impression here. Aside from Odenkirk and Nielsen and a few sparsely funny moments sprinkled throughout, ‘Nobody 2’ is the definition of a sequel that no one in particular asked for.

    It doesn’t advance the character of Hutch the way that the first film did, and it doesn’t fully embrace either its campiness or the potential grittiness of the action. It feels as insubstantial as a cartoon or video game, is as unrealistic as either of those, and doesn’t have anything that’s particularly interesting to say. Like its rudimentary story, the joke in ‘Nobody 2’ wears out fast.

    What is the plot of ‘Nobody 2’?

    Four years after he took on the Russian mob, husband, father and workaholic assassin Hutch Mansell (Bob Odenkirk) is working off his debt to them with an unending string of hits on international thugs. But when Hutch and his wife Becca (Connie Nielsen) decide to take their kids on a short vacation, a minor encounter with town bullies yanks the family into the crosshairs of an unhinged, blood-thirsty crime boss (Sharon Stone).

    Who is in the cast of ‘Nobody 2’?

    • Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell
    • Connie Nielsen as Becca Mansell
    • John Ortiz as Wyatt Martin
    • RZA as Harry Mansell
    • Colin Hanks as Sheriff Abel
    • Christopher Lloyd as David Mansell
    • Sharon Stone as Lendina
    • Colin Salmon as The Barber
    • Gage Munroe as Brady Mansell
    • Paisley Cadorath as Sammy Mansell
    Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in 'Nobody 2', directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.
    Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell in ‘Nobody 2’, directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Nobody 2′:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Nobody 2’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Bob Odenkirk Movies on Amazon

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  • TV Review: ‘The Bear’ Season 4

    Jeremy Allen White as Carmen 'Carmy' Berzatto in 'The Bear' Season 4. Photo: FX.
    Jeremy Allen White as Carmen ‘Carmy’ Berzatto in ‘The Bear’ Season 4. Photo: FX.

    ‘The Bear’ Season 4 receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.

    Released via FX on Hulu with its entire 10-episode fourth season on June 25th, ‘The Bear’ returns us to the world of Carmen ‘Carmy’ Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) and his attempts to blend fine dining with the chaotic world of his extended Chicago family.

    Created by Christopher Storer, the cast also includes Ayo Edebiri (‘Bottoms’), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (‘Girls’), Lionel Boyce (‘Shell’), Liza Colón-Zayas (‘Collateral Beauty’), Abby Elliott (‘No Strings Attached’) and Matty Matheson (‘Workin’ Moms’).

    Related Article: TV Review: ‘The Bear’ Season 3

    Initial Thoughts

    Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu in 'The Bear' Season 4. Photo: FX © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.
    Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’ Season 4. Photo: FX.
    © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.

    It’s no secret that after a sleeper hit first season, a critically acclaimed, award-winning and much-watched second, culinary drama ‘The Bear’ went off the boil somewhat in its third. The ingredients were the same –– great performances, visually stylish and one of the better collections of needle drops on TV –– but somehow the script and the pace let it down.

    The big question going forward is whether Season 4 sees the blend back in balance.

    Script and Direction

    Abby Elliott as Natalie 'Sugar' Berzatto in 'The Bear' Season 4. Photo: FX © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.
    Abby Elliott as Natalie ‘Sugar’ Berzatto in ‘The Bear’ Season 4. Photo: FX.
    © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.

    Early reports had the fourth season shot back to back with the third, but aside from a couple of small elements, this was not the case. But the overarching feeling, even in a meta sense, is of the series almost apologizing for past stumbles.

    That’s perhaps not all that surprising in a show where the main characters are all a work in progress in terms of their own careers and healing journeys, dealing with a soup of past trauma, self-esteem issues and other psychological problems. The character of Carmy in particular realizes the damage he has inflicted on those around him and (mostly) aims to make good.

    Unlike the last season, this is handled in compelling fashion by the narrative, which finds a better mix of the tone of the show and moving its story alone.

    (L to R) Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard ‘Richie’ Jerimovich, Will Poulter as Luca in 'The Bear' Season 4. Photo: FX © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard ‘Richie’ Jerimovich, Will Poulter as Luca in ‘The Bear’ Season 4. Photo: FX. © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.

    There are still lingering problems with pace in some scenes, it’s as if everyone decided that certain moments didn’t need to be edited and could instead play out way beyond their useful time scale. And while the show’s long sequences of food preparation largely remain compelling, some still come across as filler.

    ‘The Bear’s visual style remains excellent, making good use of Chicago locations and keeping us close to the characters when the emotional flames are high.

    Even the humor level is raised this year –– even if the series really shouldn’t be competing in the comedy categories.

    Cast and Performances

    Jamie Lee Curtis as Donna Berzatto in 'The Bear' Season 4. Photo: FX © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.
    Jamie Lee Curtis as Donna Berzatto in ‘The Bear’ Season 4. Photo: FX.
    © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.

    He remains the main character and focus of the show, but Jeremy Allen White’s Carmy is still dialed down a little bit this year. The actor’s mournful face and low-key performance work for the role, and he plays well against almost anyone, particular Edebiri and Moss-Bachrach.

    As Syd, Ayo Edebiri continues to rank among the series most valuable performers, and co-wrote her own showcase episode this year, which saw her taking a day away from the restaurant to ponder a tempting job opportunity elsewhere while she’s getting her hair done by a cousin (there are so many cousins in this show, it’s almost hard to keep track). She’s typically great as the genius cook with the almighty crisis of confidence.

    Ebon Moss-Bachrach is likewise a star of the show, an actor who has proved he can steal scenes no matter the genre or material. Richie is a particularly juicy part, a screw-up who is committed to turning his life around and has found his calling running the dining experience at in-show restaurant The Bear. His turbulent personal life –– his ex-wife is getting re-married and he wonders about his connection to his young daughter –– is also fuel for superb performances.

    Liza Colón-Zayas’ Tina isn’t in the spotlight quite as much last season (when she got her own showcase episode), but she’s still a welcome presence, struggling with the timing on a new pasta dish. She’s also a welcome sprinkling of spice in other scenes, such as when she’s encouraging Carmy on his own journey.

    (L to R) Lionel Boyce as Marcus Brooks, Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu in 'The Bear' Season 4. Photo: FX © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Lionel Boyce as Marcus Brooks, Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’ Season 4. Photo: FX. © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.

    Around the main cast is a variety of excellent supporting performers, ‘The Bear’ always working best as a stew of people and personalities rather than just Carmy’s obsessions. Episode 7, ‘Bears’ is the true highlight of the season, an hourlong entry set at the wedding of Richie’s ex-wife Tiffany (Gillian Jacobs) to Frank (Josh Hartnett).

    It features the return of top-caliber recurring performers such as Jamie Lee Curtis (as Carmy and Natalie’s troubled mother Donna), Bob Odenkirk as “Uncle” Lee Lane (Donna’s occasional boyfriend), and the welcome addition of –– spoiler alert in case you don’t want to know about new guest stars –– Brie Larson, who fits perfectly as one of the sprawling Fak family.

    There is also the welcome return of Will Poulter as Chef Luca, bringing a humble, funny energy to the kitchen.

    Final Thoughts

    (L to R) Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard ‘Richie’ Jerimovich, Lionel Boyce as Marcus Brooks in 'The Bear' Season 4. Photo: FX © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard ‘Richie’ Jerimovich, Lionel Boyce as Marcus Brooks in ‘The Bear’ Season 4. Photo: FX. © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.

    It might not be simmering back at the level of the first or second seasons, but ‘The Bear’ has certainly found a better mix for its various elements for a more satisfying final dish this time.

    While the finale leaves some plot threads dangling, if the cast’s increasingly busy schedule makes future seasons challenging, this would work to put a lid on the show.

    NbUbKM4RatoTa5PlxBL2Z6

    What’s the plot of ‘The Bear’ Season 4?

    Season 4 of ‘The Bear’ sees Carmy (Jeremy Allen White)  grappling with the restaurant’s success and his own future, leading to a dramatic shift in his role and the restaurant’s leadership structure.

    The season explores themes of family, trauma, and the relentless pursuit of perfection within the high-pressure environment of a fine-dining restaurant. Sydney faces her own career crossroads, while Richie continues his journey of self-discovery and leadership.

    Who stars in ‘The Bear’ Season 4?

    • Jeremy Allen White as Carmen ‘Carmy’ Berzatto
    • Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu
    • Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard ‘Richie’ Jerimovich
    • Lionel Boyce as Marcus Brooks
    • Liza Colón-Zayas as Tina Marrero
    • Abby Elliott as Natalie ‘Sugar’ Berzatto
    • Matty Matheson as Neil Fak
    (L to R) Liza Colón-Zayas as Tina, Sarah Ramos as Jessica, Corey Hendrix as Sweeps, Andrew Lopez as Garrett, Jeremy Allen White as Carmen ‘Carmy’ Berzatto in 'The Bear' Season 4. Photo: FX. © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Liza Colón-Zayas as Tina, Sarah Ramos as Jessica, Corey Hendrix as Sweeps, Andrew Lopez as Garrett, Jeremy Allen White as Carmen ‘Carmy’ Berzatto in ‘The Bear’ Season 4. Photo: FX. © 2025 FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Jeremy Allen White Movies and TV Shows:

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  • Sharon Stone to be the Villain in ‘Nobody’s Sequel

    Sharon Stone arrives for the 83rd Annual Academy Awards® at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, CA February 27, 2011. Credit/Provider: Ivan Vejar / ©A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.
    Sharon Stone arrives for the 83rd Annual Academy Awards® at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, CA February 27, 2011. Credit/Provider: Ivan Vejar / ©A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.

    Preview:

    • Sharon Stone has joined the sequel to 2021 action pic ‘Nobody’.
    • Bob Odenkirk is back to star.
    • Timo Tjahjanto has the job of directing the new movie.

    Though Sharon Stone these days tends to devote herself to charitable endeavors off-screen, she still pops up in the odd movie here and there.

    And while she may forever be associated with her most famous performance in erotic thriller ‘Basic Instinct’, Stone has had some other memorable roles, including ‘Casino’ and, on the other end of the critical reception spectrum, ‘Catwoman’, in which she played the scheming Laurel Hedare.

    Yet she seems happy to be villainous again, signing up for the sequel to 2021 action thriller ‘Nobody’, which starred Bob Odenkirk and became a surprise pandemic hit, earning more than $57 million from a $16 million budget.

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    What was the story of ‘Nobody’?

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    ‘Nobody’ saw Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell, an underestimated and overlooked dad and husband, taking life’s indignities on the chin and never pushing back. A nobody.

    When two thieves break into his suburban home one night, Hutch declines to defend himself or his family, hoping to prevent serious violence. His teenage son, Blake (Gage Munroe), is disappointed in him and his wife, Becca (Connie Nielsen), seems to pull only further away.

    The aftermath of the incident strikes a match to Hutch’s long-simmering rage, triggering dormant instincts and propelling him on a brutal path that will surface dark secrets and lethal skills. In a barrage of fists, gunfire and squealing tires, Hutch must save his family from a dangerous adversary.

    Related Article: Bob Odenkirk will Return as Hutch Mansell for ‘Nobody 2’

    What will ‘Nobody 2’ be about?

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    There are zero official plot details for the new movie –– once again written by Derek Kolstad, this time joined by Aaron Rabin, Odenkirk and Umair Aleem –– though the end of the original did hint at Hutch continuing to embrace his re-emerged badass side, with Becca playing a more active part.

    We do at least know he’ll be facing a threat from Stone’s character, though whether she’s someone from his past or a brand new problem remains to be seen.

    Who is making ‘Nobody 2’?

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Indonesian director Timo Tjahjanto will be overseeing the new movie. He got his start directing ‘V/H/S/2’ segment “Safe Haven” alongside Gareth Evans. He went on to direct the ‘The Night Comes for Us’ and ‘May the Devil Take You’, both of which are available on Netflix.

    On the evidence of his past work, he certainly has the action credentials to pull off something good.

    Producing once more via their 87North company are filmmaker David Leitch and producer partner Kelly McCormick, no strangers to action themselves, having most recently released ‘The Fall Guy’.

    When will ‘Nobody 2’ be in theaters?

    Studio backers Universal have set an August 15th, 2025 release date for the ‘Nobody’ sequel.

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Nobody 2′:

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  • Bob Odenkirk Officially Back for ‘Nobody 2’

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Preview:

    • Bob Odenkirk has made a deal to return for ‘Nobody 2’.
    • Timo Tjahjanto will direct the action sequel.
    • The movie is scheduled for an August 2025 release slot.

    While few could have predicted back in 2021 that Bob Odenkirk –– then best known for his comedy work and mixing that with drama for ‘Breaking Bad’/’Better Call Saul’ –– would become a bona fide action star in the ‘John Wick’ or Liam Neeson mold.

    And then along came ‘Nobody’, written by ‘Wick’s Derek Kolstad and directed by Ilya Naishuller, which changed the game. Shot for $16 million, it debuted at No.1 at the domestic box office, grossing more than $57M worldwide.

    It’s not a shock, then, to learn that a sequel has been in development for a while, and now has Odenkirk officially set to return.

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    What was the story of ‘Nobody’?

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    ‘Nobody’ saw Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell, an underestimated and overlooked dad and husband, taking life’s indignities on the chin and never pushing back. A nobody.

    When two thieves break into his suburban home one night, Hutch declines to defend himself or his family, hoping to prevent serious violence. His teenage son, Blake (Gage Munroe), is disappointed in him and his wife, Becca (Connie Nielsen), seems to pull only further away.

    The aftermath of the incident strikes a match to Hutch’s long-simmering rage, triggering dormant instincts and propelling him on a brutal path that will surface dark secrets and lethal skills. In a barrage of fists, gunfire and squealing tires, Hutch must save his family from a dangerous adversary.

    Related Article: Bob Odenkirk to Star for Director Ben Wheatley in Action Pic ‘Normal’

    What will ‘Nobody 2’ be about?

    There are zero official plot details for the new movie –– once again written by Derek Kolstad –– though the end of the original did hint at Hutch continuing to embrace his re-emerged badass side, with Becca playing a more active part.

    Who is making ‘Nobody 2’?

    A scene from director Timo Tjahjanto's 'May the Devil Take You'.
    A scene from director Timo Tjahjanto’s ‘May the Devil Take You’. Photo: Netflix.

    Indonesian director Timo Tjahjanto will be overseeing the new movie. He got his start directing ‘V/H/S/2’ segment “Safe Haven” alongside Gareth Evans. He went on to direct the ‘The Night Comes for Us’ and ‘May the Devil Take You’, both of which are lurking on Netflix.

    On the evidence of his past work, he certainly has the action credentials to pull off something good.

    Producing once more via their 87North company are filmmaker David Leitch and producer partner Kelly McCormick, no strangers to action themselves.

    What else does Bob Odenkirk have on his schedule?

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Odenkirk is also attached to star in new Ben Wheatley (‘The Meg 2’) action movie ‘Normal’, which will see him as a man unexpectedly thrust into the temporary role as Sheriff in a small town when criminals hit it and dark secrets are revealed.

    And he’s part of the cast for ‘The Room Returns!’ a tribute to Tommy Wiseau’s infamous 2003 cult drama, roundly considered one of the worst movies of all time, but long since lovingly embraced by comedians and fans.

    When will ‘Nobody 2’ punch its way into theaters?

    Universal has scheduled the action sequel for an August 15th, 2025, release date.

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Nobody 2′:

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  • Bob Odenkirk to Star in Action Movie ‘Normal’

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Preview:

    • Bob Odenkirk’s back action for ‘Normal’.
    • ‘Meg 2: The Trench’ director Ben Wheatley will make the movie.
    • ‘Nobody’ veteran Derek Kolstad wrote the script.

    Though we’re more used to seeing Bob Odenkirk use his quick wits than his fists as Jimmy McGill in ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘Better Call Saul’, he proved he was more than up to the task of getting into clashes with 2021 action movie ‘Nobody’.

    That film, directed by Ilya Naishuller and written by ‘John Wick’ veteran Derek Kolstad, saw Odenkirk as a an underestimated and overlooked dad and husband, who when his house is robbed, reveals his past as a government agent and all-round badass who takes on some dangerous Russian thugs.

    Though they’ve talked about a sequel to that movie, Odenkirk and Kolstad have now reunited instead for a new action concept called ‘Normal’, which has British filmmaker Ben Wheatley attached to direct.

    Related Article: Vince Gilligan Leaving the ‘Breaking Bad’ Universe Behind For New Show

    What’s the story of ‘Normal’?

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    The new movie follows Ulysses (Odenkirk), who is thrust into the temporary role of the sheriff for the small sleepy town Normal after the previous officer’s untimely death.

    When the town’s bank is robbed by an out-of-town couple, Ulysses arrives on the scene to find that the town is hiding much more sinister deep-seated secrets under its surface and everyone –– from the bartender to the priest –– is in on it.

    And now Ulysses, who’s up until now focused only on running away from the demons of his past, must uncover the full extent of this criminal conspiracy.

    Marc Provissiero, who worked with Odenkirk and Kolstad on ‘Nobody’, is aboard to produce ‘Normal’ alongside them.

    WME Independent is representing the movie, and the distribution rights will be on sale at this month’s European Film Market, which kicks off next week. We doubt it’ll be long before someone snaps this up –– might Universal, which saw ‘Nobody’ earn nearly $60 million from a $16 million budget, take a chance?

    What has Ben Wheatley worked on before?

    2016's 'Free Fire.'
    2016’s ‘Free Fire.’ Photo: StudioCanal.

    US audiences might know Wheatley best from his most recent movie, the Jason Statham-starring giant shark sequel ‘Meg 2: The Trench’, but he’s been something of a genre-hopper.

    He got his start in low-budget, high-bloodshed horror movies in the UK, including ‘Down Terrace’ and ‘Kill List’ and has made his way through different styles of films such as social satire ‘High Rise’ and a new adaptation of the Daphne Du Maurier novel ‘Rebecca’, famously previously brought to screens by Alfred Hitchcock.

    He proved he can make action movies interesting via 2016’s ‘Free Fire’, which pitched two rival criminal gangs against each other in a shoot-out and a game of survival.

    When will ‘Normal’ be in theaters?

    Since it has yet to start shooting or find a distributor, there is no scheduled release date for ‘Normal’ just yet.

    Bob Odenkirk in 'Nobody.'
    Bob Odenkirk in ‘Nobody.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Normal’:

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  • ‘The Bear’ Renewed for Season 3

    Jeremy Allen White in 'The Bear.'
    Jeremy Allen White in ‘The Bear.’ Photo: Courtesy of FX.

    Preview

    • The Bear’ has been a big success for FX
    • FX and Hulu have renewed the show for a third season.
    • Production should hopefully start once the actors can return to work.

    One of the clear breakout hits of 2022 was ‘The Bear’, which starred Jeremy Allen White as Carmen ‘Carmy’ Berzatto, a trained chef struggling to adapt to life running his family’s chaotic Chicago sandwich joint.

    It drew a big audience, was even bigger in Season 2 and saw and plenty of buzz, with awards following for both its cast and the show.

    No surprise, then, at the news that FX and Hulu are renewing the series for a third season.

    What’s the story of ‘The Bear’?

    Jeremy Allen White in 'The Bear.'
    Jeremy Allen White in ‘The Bear.’ Photo: Courtesy of FX.

    The first season follows Carmy (White), a young chef from the fine-dining world who comes home to Chicago to run his family sandwich shop after his brother’s suicide. Carmy must balance the realities of small-business ownership, his strong-willed and recalcitrant kitchen staff and his strained familial relationships, all while grappling with the impact of his brother’s death.

    Season two follows the gang as they transform their grimy sandwich joint into a next-level spot. As they stripped the restaurant down to its bones, the crew undertook transformational journeys of their own, each forced to confront the past and reckon with who they want to be in the future.

    Related Article: Marvel’s ‘Thunderbolts’ Recruits ‘The Bear’s Ayo Edebiri

    Who else is in ‘The Bear’?

    Alo Edebiri in 'The Bear.'
    Alo Edebiri in ‘The Bear.’ Photo: Courtesy of FX.

    Alongside White, the cast includes Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, Abby Elliott, Lionel Boyce and Liza Colón-Zayas. Matty Matheson was also upped for season 2, while Edwin Lee Gibson, Corey Hendrix, Oliver Platt, and Jon Bernthal.

    In terms of recurring cast, José Cervantes, Richard Esteras, Carmen Christopher, Chris Witaske, Joel McHale, Jamie Lee Curtis, Gillian Jacobs, Robert Townsend, Molly Gordon, Alex Moffat, Ricky Staffieri, Mitra Jouhari and Maura Kidwell have all appeared in more than one episode.

    And in a casting coup alongside Curtis, a flashback episode of Season 2 also featured Bob Odenkirk, while Will Poulter and Olivia Colman appeared in other episodes.

    ‘The Bear’ has been so successful because it blends the chaos and tension involved in the culinary world with some well-crafted character comedy and some delicious looking food items with every detail painstakingly researched.

    Executive talks ‘The Bear’ renewal

    Jeremy Allen White in 'The Bear.'
    Jeremy Allen White in ‘The Bear.’ Photo: Courtesy of FX.

    Here’s what FX president Nick Grad had to say on the news:

    “‘The Bear’, which wowed audiences in its first season only to achieve even greater heights in season two, has become a cultural phenomenon. We’re so proud to partner with Christopher Storer, Joanna Calo, Josh Senior, and the rest of the creative team, as well as the brilliant cast led by Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. What they and the crew have done is truly remarkable, and we and our partners at Hulu join fans in looking forward to the next chapter in the story of ‘The Bear’”.

    Jeremy Allen White in 'The Bear.'
    Jeremy Allen White in ‘The Bear.’ Photo: Courtesy of FX.

    Movies Currently on Hulu:

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  • 2023 Critics Choice Awards Winners

    Jamie Lee Curtis, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan, Michelle Yeoh, and James Hong in A24's 'Everything Everywhere All at Once.'
    (L to R) Jamie Lee Curtis, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan, Michelle Yeoh, and James Hong in A24’s ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once.’

    As awards season trundled onward, Sunday night saw the Critics Choice Association Awards handed out at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles.

    The star-studded affair (albeit slightly less star-studded thanks to the super-spreader event that was the Golden Globes, which saw the likes of Jamie Lee Curtis, Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell all laid low with Covid) blends film and TV awards, and in an attempt to keep the running time to a strict three hours (successfully, as it stands) weirdly squashed together certain categories, which meant that the likes of ‘Barry’s Henry Winkler and ‘Abbott Elementary’s Sheryl Lee Ralph ended up taking the stage at the same time, and taking turns to give their speeches one after the other.

    That was still better for those in some other categories, such as Cinematography and Best Animated Series, which were burned through in brief on-screen mentions without any of the recipients coming up to accept their trophies.

    Hosted by Chelsea Handler, the show had the usual mix of celebrity presenters, memorably Seth Rogen, who joked that the CW, where the awards show was airing, had zero nominations at the ceremony.

    It was another good night for the team behind ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’, which won five awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor for Ke Huy Quan, Best Editing and Best Original Screenplay.

    Though the movie’s Michelle Yeoh had been predicted to repeat her run of wins as Best Actress, that award went to Cate Blanchett for ‘Tár’, as the Critics Choice Ceremony had the feel of Everything Wins Something.

    Brendan Fraser in director Darren Aronofsky's 'The Whale' from A24.
    Brendan Fraser in director Darren Aronofsky’s ‘The Whale’ from A24.

    Brendan Fraser continued his own winning streak, offering up an emotional speech as he accepted Best Actor for ‘The Whale’. Angela Bassett gave a stirring speech as she took home Best Supporting Actress for ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Popular action movie ‘RRR’, meanwhile, was named Best Foreign Language Film along with winning Best Song for “Naatu Naatu”.

    Other buzzed about movies made do with one win each, such as ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’s effects, and ‘Elvis’ hair and make-up team.

    On the TV front, it was a triumphant night for ‘Better Call Saul’, the ‘Breaking Bad’ spin-off enjoying some well-earned respect for its final season as it won Best Drama, Best Actor in a Drama for star Bob Odenkirk and Best Supporting Actor in a Drama for Giancarlo Esposito.

    ‘Abbott Elementary’ continued to do well, winning two awards, while Jennifer Coolidge was back on another stage, offering another funny speech as she won another trophy for ‘The White Lotus’.

    Blending first-timers (such as Jeremy Allen White for ‘The Bear’) and repeat winners (Jean Smart for ‘Hacks’ or Winkler for ‘Barry’), the TV categories, like their movie counterparts also spread the love around various shows.

    ‘The Dropout’, which stars Amanda Seyfried as Elizabeth Holmes, won for Seyfried and Best Limited Series, while ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’ landed Best Actor (for Daniel Radcliffe, who wasn’t present) and Best TV Movie.

    Jean Smart in ‘Hacks’ Season 2 for HBO Max.
    Jean Smart in ‘Hacks’ Season 2 for HBO Max. Photos by Karen Ballard.

    Here are the film winners…

    BEST PICTURE

    Everything Everywhere All at Once

    BEST ACTOR

    Brendan Fraser, ‘The Whale

    BEST ACTRESS

    Cate Blanchett, ‘Tár

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

    Ke Huy Quan, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

    Angela Bassett, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

    BEST YOUNG ACTOR

    Gabriel LaBelle, ‘The Fabelmans

    BEST ACTING ENSEMBLE

    Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery

    BEST DIRECTOR

    Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY

    Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY

    Sarah Polley, ‘Women Talking

    BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

    Claudio Miranda, ‘Top Gun: Maverick

    BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN

    Florencia Martin, Anthony Carlino, ‘Babylon

    BEST EDITING

    Paul Rogers, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST COSTUME DESIGN

    Ruth E. Carter, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’

    BEST HAIR AND MAKEUP

    Elvis

    BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

    Avatar: The Way of Water

    BEST COMEDY

    ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’

    BEST ANIMATED FEATURE

    Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio

    BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM

    RRR

    BEST SONG

    “Naatu Naatu”, ‘RRR’

    BEST SCORE

    Hildur Guðnadóttir, ‘Tár’

    Jennifer Coolidge in HBO's 'The White Lotus.'
    Jennifer Coolidge in HBO’s ‘The White Lotus.’ Photograph by Fabio Lovino/HBO.

    The TV winners can be found below…

    BEST DRAMA SERIES

    Better Call Saul

    BEST ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES

    Bob Odenkirk, ‘Better Call Saul’

    BEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES

    Zendaya, Euphoria’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES

    Giancarlo Esposito, ‘Better Call Saul’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES

    Jennifer Coolidge, ‘The White Lotus’

    BEST COMEDY SERIES

    ‘Abbott Elementary’

    BEST ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES

    Jeremy Allen White, ‘The Bear’

    BEST ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES

    Jean Smart, ‘Hacks’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES

    Henry Winkler, ‘Barry’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES

    Sheryl Lee Ralph, ‘Abbott Elementary’

    BEST LIMITED SERIES

    ‘The Dropout’

    BEST MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Weird: The Al Yankovic Story

    BEST ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Daniel Radcliffe, ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’

    BEST ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Amanda Seyfried, ‘The Dropout’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Paul Walter Hauser, ‘Black Bird’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Niecy Nash-Betts, ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’

    BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE SERIES

    ‘Pachinko’

    BEST ANIMATED SERIES

    ‘Harley Quinn’

    BEST TALK SHOW

    ‘Last Week Tonight with John Oliver’

    BEST COMEDY SPECIAL

    ‘Norm Macdonald: Nothing Special’

    Ke Huy Quan as Waymond Wang in A24's 'Everything Everywhere All at Once.'
    Ke Huy Quan as Waymond Wang in A24’s ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once.’
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