Chris Hardwick's Blog, page 389

January 17, 2024

THE LORD OF THE RINGS’ Witch-King of Angmar Is Terrifying as a Life-Sized Bust

Everyone in Middle-earth knows Sauron tricked the elves into making nine rings of power for Mortal Men doomed to die. Nine is a lot, sure, but we also know one of those mortals stood above the other eight. (Sometimes he also flew above them, too.) The powerful Witch-King of Angmar, the leader of the Nazgûl, is the most famous and notorious of the Ringwraiths. And, if we’re being honest, he’s also the coolest. Now you can bring home one of J.R.R. Tolkien’s most intimidating villains with a new life-sized bust that will have all of your statues cowering in fear.

A replica bust of The Lord of the Rings' Witch-King of Angmar holding his sword in full armorInfinity Studios

Infinity Studios’ newest collectible bust is a replica of The Lord of the Rings‘ Witch-King of Angmar. Made of resin, PU, and metal, it stands more than four-feet, nine inches tall. It also has a width of nearly two-feet, eight-inches, and a length of over two-feet, five-inches. It’s a big, big boy. This screen accurate replica also shows the Witch-King ready for battle. He dons his signature helmet and armor and holds his broadsword up, ready to strike.

As great as this 1-1 bust looks in daylight, it will (fittingly) really flourish in the dark. Its base features a replica for the front gates of Minas Morgul where he reigned. The statue also comes with a set of green LED lights. They recreate the unnatural, unsettling signature hue that enveloped the evil tower before Frodo helped destroy the One Ring.

A replica of Minas Morgul's front gate bathed in green light Infinity Studios

You can pre-order your Witch-King of Angmar bust now, but you might need a Steward of Gondor’s salary to afford it. It can be yours for $2,859. But remember, if you’re ever afraid of something so lifelike rising up attacking you, make sure you don’t call a mortal man to help you slay it. No living man may hinder it. For that you’ll need a woman.

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Published on January 17, 2024 11:32

Voice Cast for DC’s CREATURE COMMANDOS Animated Series Revealed

Of all the projects announced for James Gunn’s new DCU, the one that was already in production was the animated Creature Commandos series for HBO Max. And now, James Gunn has announced the voice cast for this series about a squad of monster soldiers based on the cult DC Comics title from the early ’80s. Gunn has filled it with quite a few names you’ll recognize, including some making the jump from the MCU. Here’s the full line-up of the DC voice cast for the upcoming Creature Commandos.


And in addition to Grillo welcome David Harbour as Frankenstein, Indira Varma as the Bride, @AlanTudyk as Dr. Phosphorous, @MariaBakalova96 as Ilana Rostovic, @seangunn as GI Robot & Weasel, Zoe Chao as Nina Mazursky and @steveagee returning as John Economos. #CreatureCommandos https://t.co/Xcg4oTv45j

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) April 12, 2023

Creature Commandos will showcase the voice talents of the MCU’s former Crossbones, Frank Grillo, who will portray Rick Flag Sr. Another MCU alum joining the Creature Commandos cast is David Harbour as Eric Frankenstein. Speaking of Frankenstein, Obi-Wan Kenobi’s Indira Varma will be playing The Bride. Also in the cast are Maria Bakalova as Princess Ilana Rostovic, Zoe Chao as Nina Mazursky, and Alan Tudyk as Dr. Phosphorus. Sean Gunn is reprising his role as Weasel and also playing G.I. Robot. Finally, Steve Agee will reprise his role as John Economos from the Peacemaker series. Already announced for this series is Viola Davis as Amanda Waller, who’s giving the Commandos their marching orders.

Additionally, The Witcher‘s Anya Chalotra has joined the DCU as the voice of Circe. James Gunn confirmed the news, though he indicated the role may be a more minor part of the series. Circe is a Wonder Woman villain and power sorceress/goddess in the world of DC. And we couldn’t think of someone better to give life to the role than Anya Chalotra.

James Gunn's new animated Creature Commandos, coming to HBO Max.Warner Bros. Animation/DC Studios

James Gunn mentioned in his DCU announcement that actors who voiced characters in animation would also portray them in live-action. So this voice-cast announcement for DC’s Creature Commandos means we’re likely to see David Harbour as Frankenstein and the rest of the squad in a live-action project—probably even a project DC has already announced. If we were to guess, it’s likely to be the Amanda Waller series. Of course, they could all turn up in a future second season of Peacemaker. However, that’s now a long way off.

There’s no date given for when Creature Commandos is set to premiere, so we’ll have to wait to see this cast in action. But we have a feeling it will be among the first DCU projects to make it to our screens.

Originally published on April 12, 2023.

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Published on January 17, 2024 10:58

Black and White GODZILLA MINUS ONE Heads to US Cinemas

The original Japanese masterpiece Godzilla hit theaters in 1954. The moody black-and-white production introduced the world to kaiju cinema and launched a beloved franchise. Almost 70 years later, with 32 Japanese sequels under his gargantuan belt, the massive lizard returned for Godzilla Minus One. This movie sets its action slightly before the original movie, firmly in Postwar Japan. The country is at its lowest point, defeated and desolated. When Godzilla comes a trampling, the people will have to band together to save themselves. It’s one of the best movies of the year, and this January, you can see it in throwback monochrome in the United States.

A scared woman looks out the window of a train and sees Godzilla rampaging through the city in Godzilla Minus One in black and white.Toho Studio

This news is very exciting for Godzilla fans. Godzilla Minus One is perhaps the closest in tone and focus to the original movie, and while its colors are great, the chance to see it in theaters in black-and-white feels like a particular treat.

godzilla minus one minus color in black and white arrives in us theatersToho Studios

Initially, the black and white Godzilla Minus One/Minus Color was released exclusively in Japan. That happened on January 12, 2024. However, given the massive North American take on the film, it was only a matter of time until the black-and-white version of Godzilla Minus One arrived in the United States. The movie made $11 million on its opening weekend, making it the biggest opening for a live-action Japanese movie, and the biggest opening for a foreign language movie in 2023. That is, if you pardon the pun, huge. Given next year is the 70th anniversary of the original, we could easily see a Godzilla double feature with the OG and the new one in the near future.

But, for now, Godzilla Minus One in black and white will arrive in US theaters on Friday, January 26. According to Deadline, both the normal version of the movie and Godzilla Minus One/Minus Color will end their theatrical run on February 1.


【モノクロ映像版上映決定】

白黒<モノクロ>の世界で
生きて、抗え。

『ゴジラ-1.0/C』
(ゴジラマイナスワン/マイナスカラー)

全国の劇場で
2024.1.12(金)より。https://t.co/QJMViKicU1

また、同日より入場者特典の配布も決定。#ゴジラマイナスワン#ゴジラ#GodzillaMinusOne#Godzilla pic.twitter.com/syJD5gssHL

— 『ゴジラ-1.0』【大ヒット上映中】 (@godzilla231103) December 19, 2023

At least we have this super rad poster for the Japanese release of Godzilla Minus One in black and white to tide us over until we get to see it over here.

The Japanese poster for Godzilla Minus One Minus Color.Toho Studio

Kyle Anderson is the Senior Editor for Nerdist. He hosts the weekly pop culture deep-dive podcast Laser Focus. You can find his film and TV reviews here. Follow him on Instagram and Letterboxd.

Originally published on December 20, 2023.

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Published on January 17, 2024 10:27

MORTAL KOMBAT 2 Teases Karl Urban’s Johnny Cage in New BTS Image

From one M.K. to another, Moon Knight‘s head writer Jeremy Slater will soon pen Mortal Kombat 2. In news we first saw on Deadline, we learned that New Line will move ahead with a sequel to their gaming blockbuster. Simon McQuoid will also return as director, per the publication.

Mortal Kombat released in 2021, to the delight of the game’s many fans. Of course, no movie adaptation will please everyone. But the world of Mortal Kombat is rich and beloved. And a sequel can continue to explore that in film form. And hopefully, whatever lessons the first Mortal Kombat film learned, Mortal Kombat 2 can improve upon.

Mortal Kombat 2021 close up of face - Mortal Kombat 2 is coming soonNew Line Cinema

The first movie featured a blend of new and familiar characters. And likely, a sequel will follow the same format and introduce new characters for the audiences to meet. But a sequel will probably make sure to continue to add in Mortal Kombat franchise Easter eggs for die-hard fans.

We don’t yet know what story Mortal Kombat 2 will tell. Or who it will spotlight. But last we saw the characters, Shang Tsung (Chin Han) was undeterred by his losses and determined to proceed with his plans for a tournament. Lord Raiden (Tadanobu Asano) ordered his warriors to recruit new champions to defend the Earthrealm. And Cole headed off to Hollywood, hoping to find Johnny Cage. Johnny Cage, of course, is a well-known figure from the games—one of the original characters from the first Mortal Kombat arcade game. Karl Urban has come aboard Mortal Kombat 2 and will play Johnny Cage. We have the first tease of his character, courtesy of producer Todd Garner.


pic.twitter.com/hNb2sN8sPX

— Todd Garner (@Todd_Garner) January 16, 2024

Additionally, You‘s Tati Gabrielle will play the assassin, Jade. Jade is a character from Mortal Kombat II and serves as a confidant and protector of Princess Kitana. Speaking of the latter, Adeline Rudolph will portray Kitana. Rounding out the cast are Martyn Ford, Desmond Chiam, Ana Thu Nguyen, and Damon Herriman

A cool scene from Mortal Kombat 2021 where fire surronds the main character - Mortal Kombat 2 is on its wayNew Line Cinema

So, all in all, things feel well set up for a sequel. Raiden’s warriors will find new characters from the games. Johnny Cage will arrive. Probably, we’ll see a tournament. And there you have it, Mortal Kombat 2. Hopefully, we’ll hear more about the plot and production of the new movie very soon. Until then, we have one movie and a rich history of games to keep us occupied. A win/win scenario for us all. A flawless victory, as it were.

Originally published on July 21. 2022.

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Published on January 17, 2024 10:05

January 16, 2024

Everything We Know About ANDOR Season 2

The first season of Star Wars: Andor ended in 2022, and fans have been patiently waiting to learn the fate of its lead character, Cassian Andor. Well, not his ultimate fate–we saw Rogue One, we know how it ends for Diego Luna’s rebel hero. But we are still dying to know how he got from where we left him off at the end of season one of Andor to the determined rebel warrior of Rogue One. Here’s everything we know so far about the upcoming second (and last) season of Andor.

Diego Luna with a beard as Cassian AndorLucasfilmAndor’s Season Two Plot

The end of Andor’s first season saw Cassian finally embrace becoming a true fighter for Luthen’s cause. All putting him one step closer to the character we first met in Rogue One. Showrunner Tony Gilroy has confirmed that they will split up the second season into four three-episode installments. Each of these three-episode chapters would cover a 12-month period. A year that is crucial to the development of the Rebel Alliance.

Mon Mothma in formal attire at an Imperial function in Andor.Lucasfilm

In Andor season two we’ll see how Cassian met his trusty droid buddy K-2SO. We’ll also visit the Rebel Base on Yavin IV, a location familiar well-known to viewers of A New Hope and Rogue One. We also expect that early on in season two, Mon Mothma and Cassian Andor will finally meet face-to-face. Thanks to set photos, many fans believe Queen Amidala’s homeworld of Naboo will play a role in the second season as well. Ultimately, season two will cover five years, dovetailing right into Rogue One’s beginning.

Behind-the-ScenesTony Gilroy smiles sititng in front of a black background/Orange hued Andor poster featuring the show's main charactersStar Wars YouTube/Lucasfilm

Andor season one creator and showrunner Tony Gilroy returns for season two, closing the chapter on Cassian’s story. Directing episodes in the second season are Ariel Kleiman, Janus Metz, and Alonso Ruizpalacios. Kleiman is directing six of the 12 episodes overall. Tony Gilroy, Dan Gilroy, Beau Willimon, and Tom Bissell are the known writers for the second season episodes. Delays from the SAG-AFTRA strike and the WGA strike caused the series to delay shooting for months. But shooting commenced as soon as the last strike ended.

Andor’s CastKino Loy realizing he can't get out of the prison in AndorLucasfilm

Of course, Diego Luna once again portrays our titular hero Cassian Andor. Joining him once more are Stellan Skarsgård as Luthen Rael, and Genevieve O’Reilly as Senator Mon Mothma. Benjamin Bratt is said to join the series in an undisclosed role. Rogue One actor Forest Whitaker returns as Saw Gerrera, as does Alan Tudyk as the droid K-2SO.

Even though it appeared his days were numbered by the end of season one, Andy Serkis has hinted that he’s returning as former prisoner Kino Loy. Also returning is Kyle Soller as Syril Karn, Denise Gough as ISB agent Deedra Meero, and Adria Arjona as rebel Bix Caleen. Faye Marsay (Vel Sartha), Varada Sethu (Cinta Kaz), Elizabeth Dulau (Kleya Marki), and James McArdle (Timm Karlo) round out the cast for season two.

Andor’s Release Date

Although originally announced as returning in the summer of 2024, thanks to various delays, it now looks like Star Wars: Andor’s second season won’t arrive till 2025.

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Published on January 16, 2024 15:29

Everything We Know About WEDNESDAY Season 2

The supreme Addams family member is coming back to our TV screens in two snaps. Well, not quite that fast. But soon enough, Netflix’s Wednesday will return for season two and we cannot wait to hear Jenna Ortega’s snappy one-liners once again. At the end of season one, Wednesday and her friends defeat Laurel Gates. Meanwhile, Tyler is set to escape his very short time in custody. Nevermore Academy is understandably closed for the remainder of the semester as a result of all the drama. But what will happen when the school opens up once again? Here’s everything we know about Wednesday season two. 

Wednesday Season Two’s Plot wednesday addams dance scene with jenna ortega in netflix seriesNetflix

Of course, we don’t know much about Wednesday season two’s plot at this time. It’s pretty clear that Wednesday, Enid, Xavier, and others will return back to Nevermore. We also know that someone is watching Wednesday and threatening to kill her, based on a text message she received while leaving Nevermore. There are still some secrets in Jericho to uncover, indeed. During the 2024 Emmys, Jenna Ortega revealed that the next season of Wednesday will pack in lots of horror, have more wonderful quotes, and that each episode will feel like its own movie. 

What I can say … [is] we’re definitely leaning into a little bit more horror,” the Scream actress teased. “It’s really, really exciting because all throughout the show, Wednesday does need a bit of an arc, she never really changes, and that’s the wonderful thing about her.”

Ortega previously stated this, saying the show will leave romance in the rearview mirror. As much as we love a good romance triangle, Wednesday is at her best when she’s investigating and verbally skewering people. 

Behind the Scenes

Jenna Ortega will join Tim Burton and Steve Stark, and others as an executive producer. Alfred Gough and Miles Millar will continue as co-showrunners. It remains to be seen who will direct its episodes. 

Wednesday Season Two’s Cast wednesday stands in front of a glass stained mirror in tv showVlad Cioplea/Netflix

Alongside Ortega, Emma Myers (Enid Sinclair), Joy Sunday (Bianca Barclay), Jamie McShane (Sheriff Galpin), Catherine Zeta-Jones (Morticia Addams), Luis Guzmán (Gomez Addams), Isaac Ordonez (Pugsley Addams), and Fred Armisen (Uncle Fester) will probably return. Uncle Fester is reportedly getting his own spinoff, so an episode this season could serve as a backdoor pilot for that show. 

It’s also probable that Hunter Doohan’s Tyler Galpin and Christina Ricci’s Laurel Gates will also return as antagonists alongside some larger threat. 

Last year’s TUDUM event revealed that we will meet a new Addams family member. Who could that be? We have a few ideas about which Addams family member could show up in Wednesday

Wednesday Season Two’s Release Date

Wednesday season two will tentatively start filming in April 2024, so we can probably expect a 2025 release date.

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Published on January 16, 2024 14:56

Who Owns Avengers Tower in the MCU?


Welcome back, Marvel fans! With Echo taking Marvel fans back to the streets of New York, a rather looming question mark has started to come back into the picture in the MCU. Who exactly owns Avengers Tower now? Kyle breaks down the property’s history along with some potential residents on today’s Nerdist News!

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Published on January 16, 2024 13:30

HIGHLANDER Reboot with Henry Cavill Will Be JOHN WICK Director’s Next Film

“There can be only one,” unless we’re talking about Highlander. In that case Hollywood will just keep making new versions again and again. Now we know for sure it will very soon. A big screen reboot, starring Henry Cavill as its titular Immortal, will be John Wick director Chad Stahelski‘s next film.. But that’s not the only job he’s taking on. Lionsgate has also tasked him with overseeing both the John Wick franchise and the new Highlander franchise he’s launching.

JOHN WICK Director Hopes New HIGHLANDER Reboot With Henry Cavill Launches Movie Franchise_1Netflix

In late 2023 Stahelski said his Highlander reboot was still in development. Not long after, Deadline reported Lionsgate was definitely “moving forward” with the project. Now we know it will be Stahelski’s next feature film.

That first feature will only be the start. This news comes as part of a larger deal with Lionsgate. The studio has also put the John Wick director in charge of the assassin franchise. He will have “creative oversight” of the popular series. Stahelski will also fill the same role for his budding new Highlander franchise. He will lead both properties across film, television, and other mediums. (Yup, it might not be long before Highlander returns to TV.)

“I am pleased to be able to grow my relationship with Lionsgate in this new oversight role for the John Wick universe and its further expansion,” said Stahelski in a statement. “John Wick is so close to my heart and to be able to continue shepherding it will be a blast for me. I’m so happy to also be launching another franchise with Highlander, a world that is so rich with engaging stories to be told.”

Sean Connery holds a blade to Christopher Lambert's neck in Highlander20th Century Studios

Previous reports said his first highlander film will also have a big-time budget topping $100 million. These new films will also touch upon elements long-time fans know and love about the franchise. During an interview last year Stahelski told Josh Horowitz, “Our story engages a lot of the same characters and stuff like that. But we’ve also brought in elements of all the TV shows, and we’re trying to do a bit of a prequel, a setup to The Gathering. So we have room to grow the property.”

Exactly how much the new rebooted franchise will connect to the previous Christopher Lambert Highlander show and movies is still unknown. The exact nature of Cavill’s role on the show, which we first reported on in 2021, is also unclear. But now we know it won’t be that much longer until we find out. And it also won’t be the only new Highlander release we get.

Originally published on August 29, 2023.

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Published on January 16, 2024 12:01

SUPERMAN: LEGACY Actor Teases Superman with a Sense of Humor and ‘Feisty, Intelligent’ Lois Lane

Soon, the world will meet a new Clark Kent in Superman: Legacy. DC Studios co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran are rebooting the most famous superhero in the world as they transition the franchise from the DCEU to the DCU. Who will play the Man of Steel on the big screen this time around? What kind of story will we see him in? And who will bring it to life? We’re keeping track of all these answers and more.

James Gunn DCU new movie Superman Legacy casts leads David Corenswet and Rachel BrosnahanNetflix/DC Comics/Prime Video

Recently, Lois Lane’s Superman: Legacy actress Rachel Brosnahan gave us a tease about what we can expect from the film and character. She revealed, “I’ve really enjoyed the collaboration with James Gunn so far. Every single person involved in this production is such a perfect nerd for Superman. We all grew up watching the movies. Some of us were reading the comics. So I feel like it’s being made with so much love. And I think this Superman will have a sense of humor.” Additionally, when asked to describe James Gunn’s version of Lois Lane in three words, she offered that the Superman: Legacy heroine will be “feisty, dare I say, marvelous, and fiercely intelligent.” Those are all great words from where we’re sitting.

An illustrated Superman sits above the trees and looks over his shouldersDC Comics/Frank Quitely

Here’s everything we know about Superman: Legacy.

Title

The DCU’s first official movie (though not its first official release) is titled Superman: Legacy. That will kick off the film side of what James Gunn has called the franchise’s first chapter, “Gods and Monsters.” He has also called Superman: Legacy “the true beginning” of the DCU.

Superman: Legacy‘s Plot

While the film still has no official synopsis, Warner Bros. did provide a description of what we can expect from the story, which James Gunn says is not an origin tale.

Superman: Legacy tells the story of Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas. He is the embodiment of truth, justice and the American way, guided by human kindness in a world that sees kindness as old-fashioned.

Gunn announced the film with art from the cover of All-Star Superman by writer Grant Morrison and artist Frank Quitely. Whether or not that means the story is influenced, inspired by, or adapted from the 12-issue comic series in any way is unclear. What Gunn has said is the movie will focus on “an earlier part of Superman’s life,” where he is still old enough to already be working for the Daily Planet.

Superman: Legacy‘s Cast

Accurate! (They are not only both incredible actors, but also wonderful people). https://t.co/1FtwYIDeYj

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) June 27, 2023

David Corenswet will play Superman, while Rachel Brosnahan will play Lois Lane.

In addition, four more actors have joined the cast of Superman: Legacy. Isabela Merced will play Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi will play Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion will play Green Lantern Guy Gardner, and Anthony Carrigan will play Metamorpho. María Gabriela de Faría will play the villain The Engineer in the movie. Also known as Angela Spica, the character has nanotechnology built into her body. Additionally, Sara Sampaio will play Eve Teschmacher. And Skyler Gisondo will play Jimmy Olsen.

James Gunn has also confirmed that Nicholas Hoult will play Lex Luthor.

James Gunn confirms Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor in Superman LegacyJames GunnBehind the Scenes 

James Gunn wrote the (definitely completed) script and is directing.

Superman: Legacy‘s Release Date

Thanks to the efforts of our talented crew, who never lost faith during the longest strikes in Hollywood history, and who never let their foot off the pedal, continuing to barrel forward, creating the most amazing character and set designs I’ve seen in my entire career,… pic.twitter.com/ntnEbA2fC0

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) November 11, 2023

Superman: Legacy will soar into theaters faster than a speeding bullet on July 11, 2025.

Originally published on April 11, 2023.

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Published on January 16, 2024 11:33

I.S.S. Is a Visually Pleasing and Claustrophobic Space Thriller That Never Fully Soars

Space… the final frontier. The vastness beyond the confines of planet Earth continues to fascinate mankind. After thousands of years of extensive exploration, we’ve yet to truly scratch the proverbial surface of the mysteries of the universe, so we continue to search for answers and understanding. It explains why we cannot get enough of stories taking place in the distant skies, from the expansive Star Trek universe to more bizarre offerings like the space thriller Moonfall. While depicting the Moon as a manufactured structure (made by ancient, space-traveling humans, no less) that threatens to obliterate life on Earth is rather ridiculous and convoluted, Gabriela Cowperthwaite’s I.S.S. takes a more grounded yet intriguing approach within the sci-fi cinema scope.

The disaster thriller’s premise promises an imaginative and intense fight for survival and victory. While I.S.S. delivers aesthetically, its storytelling ship frequently veers towards predictable checkpoints that never allow it to fully take off. 

Ariana DeBose stars as Dr. Kira Foster, a scientist who finds herself (and her literal lab rats) onboard the International Space Station with five other astronauts in what seems to be the near future. Two of them—homesick dad Christian Campbell (John Gallagher, Jr.) and seasoned resident Gordon Barrett (Chris Messina)—are fellow Americans. The other three occupants are Russian scientists Weronika Vetrov (Masha Mashkova), Alexy Pulov (Pilou Asbæk), and Nicholai Pulov (Costa Ronin). So, there’s an even split among the two nations. Everyone mostly gets along and doesn’t have to deal with the social strife back on Earth… or so they thought.

We get some slice-of-space-life activity and tidbits about Foster’s lonely existence along with a romance across political boundaries. There’s obvious foreshadowing, like when Alexy warns Kira that putting mice into this strange environment “doesn’t end well,” but whatever. Things go awry when a war breaks out between Russia and the US, which they witness from above. Gordon gets a message from below that they must take over the ISS by any means necessary. Of course, he quietly (and accurately) assumes that the Russians got the same orders. This gives way to divided loyalties, moral questions, and a healthy serving of distrust within this confined and frighteningly remote locale. (Don’t think about this too much or you won’t be able to suspend your disbelief. It’s a movie, friend.)

Ariana DeBose in an astronaut suit in the I.S.S. trailerBleecker Street

From a cinematic perspective, Cowperthwaite and cinematographer Nick Ramy Matthews rise to the challenge of creating a claustrophobic and anxiety-inducing environment. Scenes inside the ISS are tightly shot, leaving the viewer searching the edges of each frame for impending danger. Blood droplets dance in the air as a sombering signal that humanity will always be its own worst enemy. It’s a gorgeous film that fully maximizes its indie budget. However, I.S.S. never fully delivers on its promise of pulsing action at the peak of its tension ramp up. A lean 95-minute runtime somehow still feels lengthy because, well, there’s simply not enough material to sustain it. 

Several plot twists offer just enough to keep the viewer engaged but, at times, pivotal moments trudge through well-trod territory. The cast makes the most out of thin at best (and achingly stereotypical at worst) characterization, with DeBose deftly showcasing her range outside of musical fare. In less capable thespian hands, I.S.S. would have gone from a fairly entertaining flick to space junk.

Cowperthwaite’s exploration of moral compass, paranoia, and responsibility is an unsettling reflection of the plethora of ongoing terrestrial battles that threaten to tear the collective us apart. And the film’s ending leaves much room for reflection about the survivors future… and our own.

I.S.S. hits theaters on January 19.

I.S.S. ⭐ (3 of 5)

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Published on January 16, 2024 11:11

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