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Tag: Ncuti Gatwa

Movie Review: ‘The Roses’
(L to R) Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch in ‘The Roses’. Photo by Jaap Buitendijk, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

In theaters on August 29th is ‘The Roses’, the new adaptation of Warren Adler’s 1981 novel about a married couple whose relationship descends into frustration, deception and all-out war.
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Directed by Jay Roach (‘Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery’), the new dark comedy stars Benedict Cumberbatch (‘Doctor Strange’), Olivia Colman (‘The Favourite’), Kate McKinnon (‘Saturday Night Live’), Andy Samberg (‘Hot Rod’), Ncuti Gatwa (‘Barbie’) and Allison Janney (‘The Help’).

Related Article: Benedict Cumberbatch Addresses Doctor Strange’s Future in the MCU and a Third Stand-Alone Movie

Initial Thoughts

Olivia Colman in ‘The Roses’. Photo courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

Warren Adler’s novel about a marriage whose passion curdles into bitterness, jealousy and regret has been adapted once before, by Danny DeVito, who reunited ‘Romancing the Stone’ pair Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner for ‘The War of the Roses’, a pitch-dark comedy drama fueled by their existing dynamic.

Jay Roach and ‘The Favourite’s writer Tony McNamara go a different route for ‘The Roses’, which for much of its running time is a portrait of a seemingly blissful couple whose public façade hides simmering resentments, but is more cold war until it truly ignites in the third act.

Script and Direction

Benedict Cumberbatch in ‘The Roses’. Photo by Jaap Buitendijk, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

McNamara has long shown a talent for writing believably toxic relationships with enough of a farcical edge to keep it all from being too brutal –– except when it needs to be. His screenplay for ‘The Roses’ is the perfect fodder for two British stars (American audiences may sometimes react the way their marriage counsellor does in the first scene, taken aback by the sheer comic vitriol on display) to trade barbs like consummate pros.

And Roach, who has blended comedy and drama to winning effect (but also knows how to make farce serve story), was a solid choice to make this, keeping out of the cast’s way and working with them to develop the dynamics in very funny, sharp ways.

While you do sometimes wonder whether the film would have been better set in the UK, the disconnect between the leads and their American friends/co-workers does add some spice to the story.

Cast and Performances

(L to R) Kate McKinnon, Jamie Demetriou, Zoe Chao, and Andy Samberg in ‘The Roses’. Photo by Jaap Buitendijk, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

This one really works because of its firecracker central pair; Cumberbatch and Colman may not totally convince as a couple deep in the throes of love and family, but when it comes to subversive, scathing dialogue, they are experts.

As Cumberbatch’s character sees his professional architect career (and ego) crumble even as his wife’s chef ambitions flourish, they craft excellent performances, bouncing off one another.

There is a deep bench of comedy performers backing them up, but the standouts here are certainly Andy Samberg and Kate McKinnon as Amy and Barry, friends of the couple whose own marriage has seen better days. Credit also to Allison Janney, who pops up for one scene as Colman’s ruthless divorce lawyer, stealing every moment she’s on screen.

Final Thoughts

(L to R) Olivia Colman and Allison Janney in ‘The Roses’. Photo by Lara Cornell, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

‘The Roses’ may be more a skirmish than a war, but it is also a reboot that justifies its existence with a very different type of caustic relationship clash and superlative performances from its leads.

It may not always be a feel-good movie, but that’s not the intent. And it’ll certainly make you laugh.

‘The Roses’ receives a score of 80 out of 100.

(L to R) Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman in ‘The Roses’. Photo by Jaap Buitendijk, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

What’s the story of ‘The Roses’?

Life seems easy for picture-perfect couple Ivy (Olivia Colman) and Theo (Benedict Cumberbatch): successful careers, a loving marriage, great kids.

But beneath the façade of their supposed ideal life, a storm is brewing –– as Theo’s career nosedives while Ivy’s own ambitions take off, a tinderbox of fierce competition and hidden resentment ignites.

Who is in the cast of ‘The Roses’?
- Olivia Colman as Ivy Rose
- Benedict Cumberbatch as Theo Rose
- Kate McKinnon as Amy
- Andy Samberg as Barry
- Ncuti Gatwa as Jeffrey
- Allison Janney as Eleanor
- Zoë Chao as Sally
- Sunita Mani as Jane
Benedict Cumberbatch in ‘The Roses’. Photo by Jaap Buitendijk, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

Other Movies Similar to ‘The Roses’:
- ‘Romancing the Stone‘ (1984)
- ‘Heartburn‘ (1986)
- ‘Ruthless People‘ (1986)
- ‘The Witches of Eastwick‘ (1987)
- ‘The War of the Roses‘ (1989)
- ‘She-Devil‘ (1989)
- ‘I Love You to Death‘ (1990)
- ‘Death Becomes Her‘ (1992)
- ‘Serial Mom‘ (1994)
Buy Tickets: ‘The Roses’ Movie Showtimes

Buy Benedict Cumberbatch Movies On Amazon
August 26, 2025
TV Review: ‘Masters of the Air’
(L to R) Callum Turner and Austin Butler in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Launching on Apple TV+ on January 26th with two episodes (and then one weekly for seven weeks), ‘Masters of the Air’ represents the latest series from executive producers Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, who have seen success with their previous two efforts, ‘The Pacific’ and ‘Band of Brothers’.

But after two primarily land-based series, the team –– which also includes writers John Orloff and Graham Yost and directors Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck, Cary Joji Fukunaga, Dee Rees and Tim Van Patten –– have turned their attention to adapting Donald L. Miller’s non-fiction tome about one of the most famous bombing groups of the war.

Related Article: Austin Butler and More Take to the Skies in the First Pictures from Apple TV+ World War II Drama ‘Masters of the Air’

Does ‘Masters of the Air’ take flight successfully?

(L to R) Sawyer Spielberg and Austin Butler in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Though the past two limited series were on HBO, you probably won’t notice much of a difference given the expansive budget Apple offers its prestige shows. Of course it looks slick and impressive (though the screeners we saw had the occasional odd visual effect that we can chalk up to the show being at an earlier stage of post-production) and the cast is fine blend of young rising stars who commit to their parts.

There will, of course, be comparisons to its forerunners, and while it might not reach the heights of particularly ‘Band of Brothers’, it’s still a solid effort and worth watching if you’re a fan of the previous shows (or have a thing for based-on-truth World War II tales).

Initially there is some concern that the show will fall into repetitive patterns of bombing runs (not that they aren’t tense/thrilling in their own way) but once it opens out the story to chronicle the crews’ downtime and what happens once some of them are shot down over enemy territory. A visit with the Tuskegee airmen feels welcome, if given slightly short shrift.

‘Masters of the Air’: Script and Direction

‘Masters of the Air’ premieres globally January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

The team behind the show knows what they’re doing when it comes to this sort of series, the scripts weaving personal stories in with the overarching narrative of the bombing runs and beyond. It takes a little time to truly get off the air, but once the plot truly kicks in, it finds a healthy balance between the various characters (some are more compelling than others).

On the directorial front, the style is very much what we’ve come to expect –– some beauty shots of planes lifting off against sunrises or sunsets, carefully crafted visuals than crawl around the inside of the aircraft and bombing sequences designed to help you feel the pressure the crews are under.

‘Masters of the Air’: Performances

(L to R) Austin Butler and Callum Turner in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

While the initial focus is on the likes of Austin Butler’s Major Gale ‘Buck’ Cleven, Callum Turner’s Major John ‘Bucky’ Egan and Anthony Boyle’s Major Harry Crosby, the show expands out to follow several other characters who have their own experiences, both good and bad.

Butler, mostly putting ‘Elvis’ in the rearview, is solid as Buck, who guides us through the early bombing runs, takes somewhat of a backseat in the mid-section and then returns to prominence later on. Likewise Turner (having something of a period drama moment between this and ‘The Boys in the Boat’) does good work as Egan, whose war experience takes a seriously dark turn at times.

If there’s a true standout, though, it might be Boyle as Crosby, who evolves from nervy, airsick navigator to a crucial job on the ground planning sorties. It’s his character who narrates the show, and Boyle is excellent, keeping the character believable and watchable.

And the show doesn’t neglect other characters, even though there isn’t the scope to give everyone as rounded a story as the main trio. Ncuti Gatwa (who just took over the lead role in ‘Doctor Who’ after years stealing scenes in ‘Sex Education’) is typically great here as 2nd Lieutenant. Robert H. Daniels, shining in a relatively smaller role.

Ncuti Gatwa in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

There are also the more established likes of Oscar nominee Barry Keoghan as Lieutenant Curtis Biddick, a charming sort whose love of a good time on the ground is matched by his skill in the air. Keoghan is, as we’ve come to expect, excellent.

As is natural in a story like this, female roles tend to take a backseat, though there is particularly sterling work from Bel Powley as British officer Alexandra Wingate, who becomes involved with one of the characters. Powley is charm incarnate, coloring far outside the lines of a character who has more limited screentime.

As you might expect, you shouldn’t get too attached to every character; this is war and not everyone makes it out alive (as those who have read the book will know). But the well-rounded cast means you’ll care about every flyer and more, no matter their fate.

‘Masters of the Air’: Final Thoughts

Barry Keoghan in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

It could have been a glossy, factory-tooled re-run of its predecessors, but the ‘Masters’ team has taken the care and time to make sure that while the series carries the hallmarks of what has gone before, it also feels like its own thing.

It’s a fairly straightforward account of wartime heroism which won’t appeal to everyone, but for those who enjoy such chronicles, it’ll certainly fly.

‘Masters of the Air’ receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.

Austin Butler and Callum Turner in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

What’s the story of ‘Masters of the Air’?

Based on Donald L. Miller’s book of the same name, and scripted by John Orloff, ‘Masters of the Air’ follows the men of the 100th Bomb Group (the “Bloody Hundredth”) as they conduct perilous bombing raids over Nazi Germany and grapple with the frigid conditions, lack of oxygen and sheer terror of combat conducted at 25,000 feet in the air.

Some were shot down and captured; some were wounded or killed. And some were lucky enough to make it home. Regardless of individual fate, a toll was exacted on them all.

Who is in ‘Masters of the Air’?

The series cast includes Austin Butler, Callum Turner, Anthony Boyle, Nate Mann, Barry Keoghan, Rafferty Law, Edward Ashley, Jonas Moore, Elliot Warren, Matt Gavan, Branden Cook, Josiah Cross, Ncuti Gatwa and Bel Powley.

Austin Butler in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Movies Similar to ‘Masters of the Air’:
- ‘The Great Escape‘ (1963)
- ‘Schindler’s List‘ (1993)
- ‘Saving Private Ryan‘ (1998)
- ‘The Thin Red Line‘ (1998)
- ‘The Great Raid‘ (2005)
- ‘Flyboys‘ (2006)
- ‘Atonement‘ (2007)
- ‘Defiance‘ (2008)
- ‘Inglourious Basterds‘ (2009)
- ‘War Horse‘ (2011)
- ‘The Monuments Men‘ (2014)
- ‘Dunkirk‘ (2017)
- ‘1917‘ (2019)
- ‘Devotion‘ (2022)
Buy Austin Butler Movies On Amazon
January 24, 2024
TV Review: ‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’
David Tennant as The Doctor. Photo: Disney+.

Now on Disney+ (everywhere outside of the UK, where it aired on the BBC and is on the iPlayer), ‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’ is the first of three special episodes to celebrate both the venerable science fiction show’s 60th anniversary and its first with a Disney+ budgetary boost.

‘Doctor Who’ first aired on November 23rd, 1963, in the UK and ran fairly consistently (getting through seven lead actors thanks to a crafty storytelling conceit where the alien Time Lord known as The Doctor can “regenerate”, changing their body but retaining their skills and most of their memories) until 1989, when it was cancelled. It briefly returned for a one-off TV movie in 1996 –– a precursor to this latest version, since it featured a bigger budget and American partners –– but then vanished into the darker recesses of the galaxy for around a decade.

David Tennant as The Doctor on ‘Doctor Who.’ Photo: Disney+.

The 2005 reboot (spearheaded by veteran British showrunner Russell T. Davies) launched it on a more global scale, and the seasons featuring David Tennant in particular drove the series to a bigger following. Now, to mark the show’s latest anniversary, we have a trio of new special episodes.

While there were concerns that the new partners could drag the show in the direction of the TV movie it’s reassuring to report that under the returning Davies, the show maintains what works about the concept while looking better than ever.

What works about ‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’?

(L to R) David Tennant as The Doctor, The Meep, and Karl Collins as Shaun Temple. Photo: Disney+.

It marks something of a risk to bring ‘Doctor Who’ to as big an audience as Disney+ can provide –– after all, it spent years as a niche science fiction show that (in the States, at least) was mostly limited to late-night screenings on small channels or PBS. But with an assured hand in Davies and the regular production company behind the scenes, and Tennant back (you don’t need to worry too much about why the 14th incarnation of the Doctor looks and sounds like, and knows he used to be, the 10th version, all that will be explained in a future special).

If you’ve never watched an episode, should you start with this one? There are clear indications that the creators are intending this one to walk the tricky line of catching up new viewers while not alienating those who have reams of ‘Who’ knowledge rattling around their heads, and who know their Cybermen from their Daleks.

But if this is your first encounter with the character and the show, you may still want to brush on some history before diving in (either hitting Wikipedia or watching classic episodes via Max). And if you’re a veteran fan, especially one who loved Davies and Tennant’s (and Catherine Tate’s) previous run, then this will feel like a warm reunion, albeit with some much-improved effects.

This is far and away the slickest the show has ever looked, director Rachel Talalay (who has worked on the show before) delivering some stylish visuals and the overall feeling of something that finally has the cash to impress. Scenes with soldiers are filled with troops, whereas before you might have a small group. London street scenes bustle with extras, and spaceships (including the Doctor’s own vessel) are much upgraded.

David Tennant as The Doctor and Catherine Tate as Donna Noble on ‘Doctor Who.’ Photo: Disney+.

As he always has been, Tennant is a perfect fit for the role of the Doctor, balancing child-like enthusiasm with centuries-old pathos and anger. He might be playing a genius, two-hearted alien who travels around in a time/spaceship that is bigger on the inside and is disguised as an old British police calling box, but he makes the character feel human and grounded.

As for Tate, who found possibly her best role out of the comedy performances she came up creating, Donna remains very funny, but with her giant heart maintained.

Davies is also to be commended for keeping the show’s essential inclusivity, featuring in this special, a chief scientist who uses a wheelchair and having Donna Noble’s daughter Rose (Yasmin Finney) be trans.

It has come a long way from its 1960s incarnation as a show designed to educate as much as entertain, with a white-haired patrician type lecturing children about Romans while threatening to throw rocks at cavemen, but there is still a healthy dollop of opening young minds to concepts that may escape them at the time but prime them for the future.

Related Article: The 60th Anniversary ‘Doctor Who’ Specials will Arrive on Disney+ starting November 25th

What doesn’t work in ‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’?

(L to R) Catherine Tate as Donna Noble, The Meep, and Yasmine Finney as Rose. Photo: Disney+.

The show might turn some off; though intended to appeal to the whole family, it does tend to skew younger. It’s still not going to challenge the likes of ‘Foundation’ or the Marvel series for sheer impressive levels of budget and design.

And diving right in will certainly confuse some, who have to wonder what this man in the skinny suit is shouting about. It’s not the easiest concept to get across in an hour, though ‘The Star Beast’ certainly tries.

Finally, for all the boosted budget, there are still moments that look like the cheaper show ‘Doctor Who’ used to be –– some of the creature moments are still decidedly wonky.

‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’: Final Thoughts

David Tennant as The Doctor. Photo: Disney+.

A welcome, elevated return for a very popular character, this new ‘Doctor Who’ outing is very likely to win a new generation of fans while not alienating experienced viewers.

If you enjoy ‘The Star Beast’, ‘Wild Blue Yonder’ arrives on December 2nd, followed by ‘The Giggle’ on December 9th. And then ‘Doctor Who’ returns for a new season, likely starting on Christmas Day as ‘Sex Education’s Ncuti Gatwa takes over the lead role.

‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’ receives 8.5 out of 10 stars.

Neil Patrick Harris in ‘Doctor Who.’ Photo: Disney+.

What’s the story of ‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’?

In the ‘The Star Beast’, The Doctor (David Tennant) is caught in a fight to the death as a spaceship crash-lands on London. But as the battle wreaks havoc, destiny is converging on the Doctor’s old friend, Donna Noble (Catherine Tate).

Who else is in ‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’?

Around Tennant and Tate, the cast also includes Miriam Margolyes, Yasmin Finney, Matt Green, Jamie Cho, Ruth Madeley and Jacqueline King.

‘Doctor Who’ premieres on Disney+ beginning November 25th.

Other David Tennant Movies:
- ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire‘ (2005)
- ‘How to Train Your Dragon‘ (2010)
- ‘Fright Night‘ (2011)
- ‘Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger!‘ (2012)
- ‘What We Did on Our Holiday‘ (2014)
- ‘Ferdinand‘ (2017)
- ‘Bad Samaritan‘ (2018)
- ‘Mary Queen of Scots‘ (2018)
- ‘How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World‘ (2019)
- ‘Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers‘ (2022)
Buy David Tennant Movies on Amazon
November 27, 2023
First Teaser Trailer for ‘Masters of the Air’
Preview:
- The first full teaser for ‘Masters of the Air’ has landed.
- This is the new series from producers Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg.
- Austin Butler, Callum Turner and Barry Keoghan lead the cast.
If you’re already a fan of the previous World War II dramas produced by (among others) Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, you’ll no doubt be happy to learn that a third show is on its way to screens.

Yes, following ‘Band of Brothers’ and ‘The Pacific’, the focus now turns to the skies as the new trailer for ‘Masters of the Air’ reveals. It’ll tell the story of heroic bombing crews (and associated air force types) who, in the words of pilot Major Gale ‘Buck’ Cleven (Austin Butler), looked to “bring the war to Hitler’s doorstep.”

With Apple having snatched the chance to make this show from the fingers of HBO (which backed the last couple of series), the budgets and production values look to still be of the highest order.

What’s the story of ‘Masters of the Air’?

‘Masters of the Air’ premieres globally January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Based on Donald L. Miller’s book of the same name, and scripted by John Orloff, ‘Masters of the Air’ follows the men of the 100th Bomb Group (the “Bloody Hundredth”) as they conduct perilous bombing raids over Nazi Germany and grapple with the frigid conditions, lack of oxygen and sheer terror of combat conducted at 25,000 feet in the air.

Portraying the psychological and emotional price paid by these young men as they helped destroy the horror of Hitler’s Third Reich, is at the heart of the series.

Some were shot down and captured; some were wounded or killed. And some were lucky enough to make it home. Regardless of individual fate, a toll was exacted on them all.

Who else stars in ‘Masters of the Air’?

Barry Keoghan in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

The ensemble for the new WWII drama also includes Callum Turner, Anthony Boyle, Nate Mann, Rafferty Law, Barry Keoghan, Josiah Cross, Branden Cook and Ncuti Gatwa.

Related Article: Austin Butler and More Take to the Skies in the First Pictures from Apple TV+ World War II Drama ‘Masters of the Air’

Austin Butler talks ‘Masters of the Air’

Austin Butler in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Butler, who worked with Hanks on Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Elvis’, recalling to The Times of London that his co-star’s concern for his mental health after the grueling movie shoot led to him offering the young actor a role here:

“‘You have immersed yourself so deeply in Elvis that, for your mental health, it would be wise to go straight into something else. If you just jump off the train, you might have emotional whiplash… And, you know, I’ve got this thing I’m producing…’”

Of course, being thrown into the tumult of war (even one created for television) surely put different pressures on him!

When will ‘Masters of the Air’ take off?

Apple TV+ is launching the new nine-episode series with the first two installments on January 26th next year.

Austin Butler and Callum Turner in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Movies Similar to ‘Masters of the Air’:
- ‘The Great Escape‘ (1963)
- ‘Schindler’s List‘ (1993)
- ‘Saving Private Ryan‘ (1998)
- ‘The Thin Red Line‘ (1998)
- ‘The Great Raid‘ (2005)
- ‘Flyboys‘ (2006)
- ‘Atonement‘ (2007)
- ‘Defiance‘ (2008)
- ‘Inglourious Basterds‘ (2009)
- ‘War Horse‘ (2011)
- ‘The Monuments Men‘ (2014)
- ‘Dunkirk‘ (2017)
- ‘1917‘ (2019)
- ‘Devotion‘ (2022)
Buy Austin Butler Movies On Amazon
November 10, 2023
‘Doctor Who’ Specials Landing on Disney+ Next Month
Preview
- Long-running science fiction series ‘Doctor Who’ comes to Disney+ next month.
- David Tennant returns for his second set of episodes as the character.
- Ncuti Gatwa will inherit the role from Tennant after three new special episodes.
Once the purview of either late night PBS broadcasts and BBC America airings in the States, UK science fiction series ‘Doctor Who’ took a big leap forward last year when Disney Branded Television hatched a deal with rights owners the BBC to boost the series’ budget considerably in return for the exclusive rights to show it outside of Britain and Ireland.

And with the show’s 60th anniversary coming up (the show has aired, off and on, since 1963), returning show-runner Russell T. Davies –– who helped re-launch the series in 2005 and oversaw it until 2008 –– has crafted three big special episodes to celebrate.

Both the BBC and Disney have been keeping quiet about when the specials will air, but the news has finally arrived via a new trailer, which reveals air dates of November 25th, December 2nd and December 9th (three consecutive Saturdays, for those keeping track).

‘Doctor Who’ explained

David Tennant as The Doctor on ‘Doctor Who.’ Photo: Disney+.

If the title has you furrowing your brow and exclaiming, “Doctor What?”, allow us to offer brief enlightenment.

While it has been primarily a British series, ‘Doctor Who’ has scored a following in the States and elsewhere in the world thanks to its compelling blend of science fiction, history and adventure.

The show follows the adventures of an alien Time Lord known as “The Doctor” who is able to regenerate (he –– and in his most recent incarnation, she –– has been played by 13 actors so far).

The Doctor and companions journey through time and space in the TARDIS; a time-travelling ship disguised as an old-fashioned British police box, saving the universe with a combination of wit, bravery and kindness.

Orbiting around them is the wider Whoniverse –– infinite galaxies and countless civilizations filled with incredible friends and dangerous foes.

Debuting in November 1963, it ran until 1989 when it was effectively cancelled by the BBC. It returned in 2005 with Christopher Eccleston as the ninth incarnation of The Doctor, who was followed by David Tennant as the 10th.

Several other actors, including ‘The Crown’s Matt Smith have tackled the role since then, and in 2022, Jodie Whittaker’s Doctor regenerated into a new 14th Doctor once more played by Tennant (Davies has said that this is a version of the character who will somehow share the face and personality of the 10th).

The three specials are titled ‘The Star Beast’, ‘Wild Blue Yonder’ and The Giggle, and see The Doctor reunite with old companion Donna Noble (Catherine Tate), even though he wiped Donna’s memory to protect her when they parted the last time.

They’ll be up against a new incarnation of an old villain called The Toymaker, here played by Neil Patrick Harris.

Related Article: ‘Doctor Who’ Veterans David Tennant and Catherine Tate will Return to Guest Star

Who else is in the ‘Doctor Who’ special episodes?

Neil Patrick Harris in ‘Doctor Who.’ Photo: Disney+.

Additional new cast for the specials includes Yasmin Finney as Rose Temple-Noble, Miriam Margolyes as the voice of a small furry alien known as the Meep and Ruth Madeley as Shirley Anne Bingham.

Returning performers are Jacqueline King as Sylvia Noble, Karl Collins as Shaun Temple, and Jemma Redgrave as Kate Lethbridge-Stewart.

What’s the future for ‘Doctor Who’?

David Tennant as The Doctor and Catherine Tate as Donna Noble on ‘Doctor Who.’ Photo: Disney+.

Following the specials, the mantle of the main character will be inherited by ‘Sex Education’s Ncuti Gatwa, who star alongside a new companion called Ruby (Millie Gibson).

Quite what Gatwa’s 15th official Doctor (you can briefly glimpse him at the end of this new trailer) will be up to is a mystery for now, but he’s expected to debut at some point during the holiday season, setting up a new run of episodes next year.

Special One: The Star Beast on ‘Doctor Who.’ Photo: Disney+.

Other David Tennant Movies:
- ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire‘ (2005)
- ‘How to Train Your Dragon‘ (2010)
- ‘Fright Night‘ (2011)
- ‘Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger!‘ (2012)
- ‘What We Did on Our Holiday‘ (2014)
- ‘Ferdinand‘ (2017)
- ‘Bad Samaritan‘ (2018)
- ‘Mary Queen of Scots‘ (2018)
- ‘How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World‘ (2019)
- ‘Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers‘ (2022)
Buy David Tennant Movies on Amazon
October 26, 2023
First Images from ‘Masters of the Air’
Austin Butler in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

They might be more known for their movies, but Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks have made a huge impact on smaller screens too, with their World War II dramas ‘Band of Brothers’ (in 2001) and ‘The Pacific’ (in 2010).

Featuring lavish production values and deeply affecting stories, the two dramas followed troops and Marines in the fields of Europe and the Pacific Theatre during the conflict, launching many a young star in the process.

Now they’re back with new series ‘Masters of the Air’, but this time, the show comes from Apple TV+ instead of their previous home at HBO.

Starring Austin Butler (whom Hanks personally selected after starring with him in ‘Elvis’), it’ll hitch a ride with the brave airmen and others who went on bombing runs during the war.

What’s the story of ‘Masters of the Air’?

Austin Butler and Callum Turner in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Based on Donald L. Miller’s book of the same name, and scripted by John Orloff, ‘Masters of the Air’ follows the men of the 100th Bomb Group (the “Bloody Hundredth”) as they conduct perilous bombing raids over Nazi Germany and grapple with the frigid conditions, lack of oxygen and sheer terror of combat conducted at 25,000 feet in the air.

Portraying the psychological and emotional price paid by these young men as they helped destroy the horror of Hitler’s Third Reich, is at the heart of the series.

Some were shot down and captured; some were wounded or killed. And some were lucky enough to make it home. Regardless of individual fate, a toll was exacted on them all.

Who else stars in ‘Masters of the Air’?

Barry Keoghan in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

The ensemble for the new WWII drama also includes Callum Turner, Anthony Boyle, Nate Mann, Rafferty Law, Barry Keoghan, Josiah Cross, Branden Cook and Ncuti Gatwa.

Related Article: Austin Butler Talks Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Elvis’

A producer talks ‘Masters of the Air’

Rafferty Law in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Executive producer Gary Goetzman, who works closely with Hanks and has produced both the previous series, had this to say about their latest collaboration:

“‘Masters of the Air’ is a salute to the brave men of the 8th Air Force, who, through their courage and brotherhood, helped defeat Nazi Germany in World War II. Tom and Steven have always wanted to visualize cinematically what our author Don Miller has called, this ‘singular event in the history of warfare.’ We’re thrilled that Apple TV+ has given us the opportunity to combine the efforts of so many talented people, on-screen and behind the camera, to tell this important story.”

When will ‘Masters of the Air’ take off on screens?

Callum Turner in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Apple TV+ is launching the new nine-episode series with the first two installments on January 26th next year.

‘Masters of the Air’ premieres globally January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Nate Mann in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Anthony Boyle in ‘Masters of the Air,’ premiering January 26, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Movies Similar to ‘Masters of the Air’:
- ‘The Great Escape‘ (1963)
- ‘Schindler’s List‘ (1993)
- ‘Saving Private Ryan‘ (1998)
- ‘The Thin Red Line‘ (1998)
- ‘The Great Raid‘ (2005)
- ‘Flyboys‘ (2006)
- ‘Atonement‘ (2007)
- ‘Defiance‘ (2008)
- ‘Inglourious Basterds‘ (2009)
- ‘War Horse‘ (2011)
- ‘The Monuments Men‘ (2014)
- ‘Dunkirk‘ (2017)
- ‘1917‘ (2019)
- ‘Devotion‘ (2022)
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October 9, 2023
Could Cillian Murphy Star as “Ken” in the ‘Barbie’ Sequel?
Cillian Murphy is J. Robert Oppenheimer in ‘Oppenheimer,’ written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan.

The haggard face of J. Robert Oppenheimer, taking a long draw on a cigarette, has already locked down a resounding victory in the great meme sweepstakes of Summer 2023, serving as downbeat, black-and-white counterpoint to the beaming radiance and saturated pink hues of ‘Barbie.’ But could ‘Oppenheimer‘ star Cillian Murphy actually pop up as Ken in a ‘Barbie’ sequel? Sure, according to the Irish actor himself.

With opening weekend in the rearview mirror, the double feature of “Barbenheimer” — half grassroots campaign, half savvy contrivance — has proven to be a huge success, the rising tide of interwoven promotional campaigns for two very different films clearly lifting the commercial fortunes of each. Universal’s ‘Oppenheimer,’ from filmmaker Christopher Nolan, grossed $82 million domestically and around $174 million across the globe. Meanwhile, ‘Barbie,’ distributed by Warner Bros., raked in an astounding $162 million within the United States and $337 million worldwide.
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Nolan’s film, needless to say, doesn’t particularly lend itself to the notion of sequels. But as part of a lucrative deal with toy manufacturer Mattel, Warner Bros. surely has visions of a healthy, long-lasting ‘Barbie’ franchise.

There would be many different ways to spin things for a sequel, starting with whether director Greta Gerwig (and cowriter and real-life partner Noah Baumbach) wanted to stay involved. But one possibility that has gotten a good bit of traction — with a certain amount of encouragement and trial-balloon-floating from Warner Bros., one feels — is the idea of a spinoff focusing on Ken. Or, more accurately, Kens, plural.
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Where Would “Science Ken” Fit in a Shared Barbie Universe?

(L to R) Kinsley Ben-Adir, Ryan Gosling as Ken, and Ncuti Gatwa in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Barbie,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures.

In Gerwig’s film, Ryan Gosling stars as “Beach Ken” opposite Margot Robbie, who portrays the “stereotypical version” of the title character. Different variants of Ken are also portrayed by Simu Liu, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Scott Evans, Ncuti Gatwa and, yes, even John Cena. In praising not only Gosling’s performance but especially a choreographed dance number featuring the Kens, critics have noted some seemingly unique avenues of narrative opportunity.

During a recent conversation with Omelete, Murphy was asked if he would be open to starring as a Ken in a potential ‘Barbie’ sequel. “Would I play a Ken in Barbie 2? Sure, yeah — let’s read the script, let’s have a conversation,” said Murphy with a smile.

Murphy’s answer may, on the face of it, seem surprising to fans of the actor, best known for a variety of intense and smoldering characters, from ‘28 Days Later‘ and ‘Red Eye‘ to ‘The Wind That Shakes the Barley‘ and ‘Peaky Blinders’ — as well as his five previous collaborations with Nolan, including Dr. Jonathan Crane/Scarecrow in the director’s ‘Dark Knight‘ trilogy.

Related Article: ‘Barbie’ and ‘Oppenheimer’ Debuts At Record-Setting Box Office Numbers

Cillian Murphy’s “Kenergy” Is On Hold… For Now

Cillian Murphy is J. Robert Oppenheimer in ‘Oppenheimer,’ written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan.

Still, those gleefully rubbing their palms together in anticipation of seeing Murphy get to flex his under-showcased comedic chops (and maybe even decked out in rollerblades and garish, neon-print fashion) shouldn’t commence with fan art just yet. Step one on the path toward his potential participation is finding the time to actually catch ‘Barbie.’

“I can’t wait to see it — I can’t wait to see the movie,” said Murphy, acknowledging that he’s been a bit busy with his own promotional duties on behalf of ‘Oppenheimer.’ “I think it’s great for cinema to get all these great movies happening this summer.”

Who knows — with a little luck, Murphy may, a couple summers hence, finally find himself on the smiling side of a meme.

(Center) Simu Liu in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Barbie,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures.

Other Movies Similar to ‘Barbie:’
- ‘Clue‘ (1985)
- ‘Transformers‘ (2007)
- ‘Kit Kittredge: An American Girl‘ (2008)
- ‘G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra‘ (2009)
- ‘The Lego Movie‘ (2014)
- ‘Trolls‘ (2016)
- ‘The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part‘ (2019)
- ‘Lady Bird‘ (2017)
- ‘Little Women‘ (2019)
- ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts‘ (2023)
- ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie‘ (2023)
- ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves‘ (2023)
Buy Tickets: ‘Barbie’ Movie Showtimes

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Writer, director, and producer Christopher Nolan on the set of ‘Oppenheimer.’

Other Christopher Nolan Movies:
- ‘Following‘ (1998)
- ‘Memento‘ (2001)
- ‘Insomnia‘ (2002)
- ‘Batman Begins‘ (2005)
- ‘The Prestige‘ (2006)
- ‘The Dark Knight‘ (2008)
- ‘Inception‘ (2010)
- ‘The Dark Knight Rises‘ (2012)
- ‘Interstellar‘ (2014)
- ‘Dunkirk (2017)
- ‘Tenet‘ (2020)
Buy Tickets: ‘Oppenheimer’ Movie Showtimes

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July 26, 2023
David Tennant and Catherine Tate Returning to ‘Doctor Who’

(L to R) Billie Piper as Rose Tyler and David Tennant as The Doctor on BBC ONE’s ‘Doctor Who.’

Following the announcement that ‘Sex Education’ actor Ncuti Gatwa will be the new lead on long-running British series ‘Doctor Who’ comes more big news that seems sure to delight fans.

David Tennant – who played the 10th incarnation of the Doctor between 2005 and 2010, and Catherine Tate, who was plucky, opinionated companion Donna Noble between 2006 and 2010, will both return as guest stars for next year’s series.

‘Doctor Who’ focuses on the adventures of a character called The Doctor and follows the alien as they fly through space and time fixing (and sometimes causing) problems and battling threats from the dangerous likes of the Daleks and Cybermen.

The character traditionally “regenerates” following a mortal injury or other issue, a canny story invention that has allowed the role to be passed between performers. Gatwa has already started filming scenes for the show in its British home studio.

This new development has been put together by returning show-runner Russell T. Davies, who successfully relaunched the series in 2005, bringing it to new levels of pop cultural breakthrough with actors such as Christopher Eccleston and then Tennant playing the main character.

It’s perhaps not all that surprising given that 2023 marks the show’s 60th anniversary. It launched in 1963 and, while it hasn’t run concurrently (there was a big break between 1989 and 2005), the venerable science fiction series remains one of TV’s landmark shows.

Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor on BBC America’s ‘Doctor Who.’

Tennant previously returned to the role in 2013 for the special 50th anniversary episode ‘The Day of the Doctor’, in which he shared the screen with incumbent Time Lord Matt Smith.

So, how will Tennant and Tate come back to the show? Davies is only hinting right now. “Maybe this is a missing story. Or a parallel world. Or a dream, or a trick, or a flashback,” he says. “The only thing I can confirm is that it’s going to be spectacular, as two of our greatest stars reunite for the battle of a lifetime.”

Fans are also speculating that the appearance might see Davies adjusting the fate of Donna, who show-runner Stephen Moffat controversially left without her memories of experiences with the Time Lord, in order to save her life.

And, naturally, there is speculation as to who else from the show’s past might make a return for the next anniversary special.

Currently, ‘Broadchurch’ actor Jodie Whittaker is playing the 13th version of the Doctor, having taken over the role from previous performer Peter Capaldi. She has one episode left of her run on the series and will depart this year alongside show-runner Chris Chibnall.

Davies was something of a surprise return to the helm of the show, since he’s said once he finished his run that he wasn’t necessarily planning to come back. But following his ‘Who’ tenure, he’s created the award-winning likes of ‘Years and Years’ and ‘It’s a Sin’ and is clearly ready for a little more time travel.

Tennant remains one of – if not the – most popular people to take the role, so there is naturally much excitement for his return.
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May 16, 2022
‘Sex Education’s Ncuti Gatwa to Star In ‘Doctor Who’

Ncuti Gatwa in Netflix’s ‘Sex Education.’

The casting of a new Doctor in British sci-fi series ‘Doctor Who’ has been a much-anticipated event, especially since the show’s relaunch and rejuvenation in 2005. The BBC has now announced the 14th actor (not counting one or two variations) to play the main character: ‘Sex Education’ star Ncuti Gatwa.

Born in Rwanda and raised in Scotland, Gatwa feels like an excellent choice to play the Doctor – he can be impish and vibrant (after all, he is a 29-year-old playing a teenager on ‘Education’) but has also shown a real depth and ability to dig into emotion.

Gatwa will be just the latest actor to play the central role, an alien Time Lord with two hearts and a boundless sense of adventure. Flying around time and space in a ship called the TARDIS – which stands for Time And Relative Dimensions In Space – the character often helps humans out with threats – at least, when not getting into trouble.

Russell T. Davies, the prolific TV writer and producer who brought ‘Doctor Who’ back to screens in 2005, is returning to oversee the show once more.

“There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared. This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care,” says Gatwa in an official statement.

“I will endeavour my utmost to do the same. Russell T Davies is almost as iconic as the Doctor himself and being able to work with him is a dream come true,” he continues. “His writing is dynamic, exciting, incredibly intelligent and fizzing with danger. An actor’s metaphorical playground. The entire team have been so welcoming and truly give their hearts to the show. And so as much as it’s daunting, I’m aware I’m joining a really supportive family. Unlike the Doctor, I may only have one heart, but I am giving it all to this show.”

Davies took to Instagram to debut a picture posing with Gatwa at the BAFTA TV Awards on Sunday evening.

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‘Doctor Who’, which started in 1963 in the UK is one of the world’s longest-running TV series (though it did take a break between 1989 and 2005).

Since its relaunch 17 years ago, it has become a pop cultural sensation, and spawned several spin-offs. Actors filling the role of the Doctor in the current incarnation have included Christopher Eccleston, David Tennant, Matt Smith, Peter Capaldi, and, currently, Jodie Whittaker, best known – before her stint on ‘Who’, at least – for TV’s ‘Broadchurch’.

Whittaker is leaving the role this year after one more special episode later in 2022, and current show-runner Chris Chibnall is departing alongside her. Gatwa’s run on the show will start next year.

“The future is here and it’s Ncuti! Sometimes talent walks through the door and it’s so bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand back in awe and thank my lucky stars,” says Davies. “Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds. It’s an honour to work with him, and a hoot, I can’t wait to get started. I’m sure you’re dying to know more, but we’re rationing ourselves for now, with the wonderful Jodie’s epic finale yet to come. But I promise you, 2023 will be spectacular!”

‘Doctor Who’ airs on BBC America but has yet to announce a date for the next episode.

Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor on BBC America’s ‘Doctor Who.’

May 9, 2022