HollyShorts 2022 Line-up!

The annual Academy Awards® Qualifying HollyShorts Film Festival is back and has announced their line-up for the 18th Annual event! Every year the festival gets bigger and better than the last, with an amazing stacked line-up of films to present over ten days of screenings. HollyShorts (HSFF) brings together top creators, industry leaders, and companies and has launched many filmmakers into the next stages of their careers.

The festival will run from August 11th to August 20th at the TCL Chinese Theater in Los Angeles, as well as online: Bitpix. The festivities will be one of the most high profile yet!

Over 400 films on display this year, this is set to be one of the most diverse slates yet, with over 5000 entries, 161 female directors and 101 BIPOC directors among the films from this year’s program. A press release was sent out announcing the selections for the 18th annual festival and the incredible films that are leading the way.

For the full list of films, be sure to check out the official selection page, on the official Hollyshorts website.

OSCAR® Winners and Filmmaking Legends headline HollyShorts Film Festival’s 18th Film Festival Opening Night

Filmmakers and stars include double OSCAR® winner Ben Proudfoot, British legend Sir Steve McQueen, Academy Award® winner Travon Free, Jamie Lee Curtis and Gemma Arterton

HollyShorts Opening Night Line-up on August 11, 7:30pm

HollyShorts OSCAR®-qualifying film festival does it again with an impressive opening night line-up featuring Sir Steve McQueen's prostate cancer documentary EMBARRASSED which stars Idris Elba who shares “the stats are shocking”, fellow star Morgan Freeman insists “get on your duff, and go and get your exam”, and Chiwetel Ejiofor CBE adds “it’s really important to get the message out there”. Double OSCAR® winner Ben Proudfoot’s MINK! tells the story of Patsy Takemoto Mink, the first woman of color elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Rory Keenan’s BUMP stars British fan favorite Gemma Arterton, Frank Chi’s 38 AND THE GARDEN is produced by OSCAR® winner Travon Free and revisits an Asian American athlete’s story. Mike Kearby’s comedy THE PROBLEM WITH TIME TRAVEL touches on climate change, whilst Tara Westwood’s TRIGGERED stars Isiah Whitlock Jr. and Law and Order’s SVU Robert John Burke. Coral Amiga’s CROSSHAIRS shares the story of two boys whose friendship is derailed, whilst Evan Miller’s THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS all-star cast includes Adrianne Palicki and Zachary Levi.

The Epic/Dread Horror Program opens with Kelsey Bollig’s KICKSTART MY HEART, Russell Goldman’s RETURN TO SENDER starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Allison Tolman. Alexandra Magistro’s LOVE YOU, MAMA starring Madeleine Arthur (ABC’s The Family), Samantha Sloyan(Midnight Mass) and Matt Biedel (Midnight Mass). More exciting films in this strand include Alexander Thompson’s BLACK DRAGON (Rồng đen), Kantu Lentz’s COCHE BOMBA and Nuhash Humayun’s MOSHARI.

HollyShorts films will be online,

Opening Night: https://bitpixtv.news/2022/08/08/hollyshorts-2022-opening-night-august-11th-highlights-q-a-with-kelsey-bollig/

Day Two: https://bitpixtv.news/2022/08/08/hollyshorts-2022-day-2-august-12th-highlights-q-a-with-rylee-ebsen/

Day Three: https://bitpixtv.news/2022/08/08/hollyshorts-2022-day-3-august-13th-highlights-qa-with-sarah-kaskas/

Day Four: https://bitpixtv.news/2022/08/08/hollyshorts-2022-day-4-august-14th-highlights-q-a-with-grace-sloan/

Day Five: https://bitpixtv.news/2022/08/08/hollyshorts-2022-day-5-august-15th-highlights-q-a-with-tiffany-frances/

To view the full list of official selections visit:  https://hollyshorts.com/official_selections_2022

HollyShorts screenings will take place from August 11-20 at TLC Chinese Theatres, 6801 Hollywood Blvd. 3rd Level, Hollywood, CA, 90028, followed by the annual awards gala on August 20.

Paper Girls Video Review - NO SPOILERS | Season 1

Hey guys, GGG here, I can finally talk about the all- new original live action series Paper Girls! Here's my Completely spoiler free thoughts on Season 1 of the Amazon Prime Series. (For a more detailed breakdown stay tuned for my written review)

In the early morning hours after Halloween 1988, four paper girls—Erin, Mac, Tiffany, and KJ—are out on their delivery route when they become caught in the crossfire between warring time-travelers, changing the course of their lives forever. Transported into the future, these girls must figure out a way to get back home to the past, a journey that will bring them face-to-face with the grown-up versions of themselves. While reconciling that their futures are far different than their 12-year-old selves imagined, they are being hunted by a militant faction of time-travelers known as the Old Watch, who have outlawed time travel so that they can stay in power. In order to survive, the girls will need to overcome their differences and learn to trust each other, and themselves. Based on the best-selling graphic novels written by Brian K. Vaughan and illustrated by Cliff Chiang, Paper Girls is a high-stakes personal journey depicted through the eyes of four girls, played by breakout leads Camryn Jones as Tiffany Quilkin, Riley Lai Nelet as Erin Tieng, Sofia Rosinsky as Mac Coyle, and Fina Strazza as KJ Brandman. Ali Wong also stars as the grown-up version of Erin, with Nate Corddry as Larry, and Adina Porter as Prioress.

Review: The Gray Man

courtesy of NETFLIX (Gosling); (EVans)

The Gray Man is a fun high-octane, non-stop adrenaline rush full of vibrant colors, explosions and some of the most attractive faces in Hollywood. It’s a considerably solid movie that plays it safe, the story and the dialogue can be a little silly, but ultimately we’re watching for the ass-kicking.

Following their immense Marvel success The Russo Brothers have once again teamed up with screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely to make the new action-thriller The Gray Man. The high-octane $200-million Netflix/AGBO produced film based on Mark Greaney’s novel drops on Netflix this Friday and is available in select theaters. The film stars Golden Globe nominee Ryan Gosling as CIA operative Court Gentry aka Sierra Six who goes toe to toe with former Captain America, (Chris Evans) who plays Lloyd Hansen, a former cohort at the CIA, who will stop at nothing to take him out. This non-stop adrenaline rush is sure to wow audiences with its explosions, effects, and impressive stunt work although it isn't anything extraordinary or original. 

When the CIA’s most skilled operative—whose true identity is known to none—
accidentally uncovers dark agency secrets, a psychopathic former colleague puts a bounty on his head,
setting off a global manhunt by international assassins.

The action-packed thriller is Gosling’s first venture with the Russo Brothers, and his return to mega- action blockbuster’s since his lead role in Blade Runner 2047. He plays the skilled operative Court Gentry aka Six, who we first get introduced to in a federal penitentiary. He is recruited by his handler, Donald Fitzroy (Billy Bob Thornton) who he builds a father-son type relationship with over the years. Under Fitzroy, Six earns his ranking as one of the best agents in the covert program known as Sierra, making a name for himself while remaining hidden in the shadows. Gentry was once a highly-skilled, Agency-sanctioned merchant of death, but now the tables have turned as he becomes the target, hunted internationally by psychopath Lloyd Hansen. 

“The Gray Man” Sierra program is an unofficial government sanctioned operation that recruits nameless assassins and offers them limited sentences in exchange for a lifelong commitment. These assets are chosen for certain skill-sets, a lack of family and lack of morality. After years of loyalty to the program Sierra Six is now targeted by the agency currently run by the entitled and whiny Denny Carmichael (Regé-Jean Page). Six is now on the run as he has something they want, which is the only thing keeping him alive. In a web of co-conspiracies and competitors, Six doesn't kill for pleasure or a price, unlike the other deadly assassins currently hunting him. He also has to save a kid in the process, who Carmichael has kidnapped as collateral.

NETFLIX: Court Gentry (Gosling)

“It’s really the first time in his life that he’s had any kind of power. He was powerless as a child to a very domineering father, he was powerless to the prison system and then powerless to the CIA. So, even though everything is very cinematic and the stakes are heightened, his story is very relatable in a way because all he really wants is to have some kind of control over himself and over his own life.” - Gosling 

Gosling is badass, sarcastic and makes being an assassin look like a walk in the park. He has a natural presence on screen that keeps viewers captivated and cheering him on. The movie delves into his past ever so slightly, with just enough insight into why his life has gone down this path of mayhem. Aside from that we don't know much about his character which adds to the mystery of Sierra Six.

Gosling Vs. Evans

“Extra 10 lol to the first guy to put a bullet in this Ken dolls brain “ - Lloyd Hansen

Evans reunites with the Russo Bros. but this time as the villain, Former CIA recruit Lloyd Hansen, who lasted only five-and-a-half months with the agency before being dismissed for unauthorized torture and lack of impulse control. A free-agent assassin, he torments his targets for sport. Hired by Carmichael, a former schoolmate, to hunt the Gray Man, he’s never learned to play nicely with others and enjoys tormenting people. His character is unbelievable, outrageous and oh that ridiculous stache, but it works! Evans is hilarious as the compulsive, hothead, and psychopathic loose cannon that cannot be contained. He is extremely impulsive, has no ethics whatsoever, and condones all kinds of unsanctioned torture. He goes on a wild and menacing goose chase to hunt down his prey (Six) with an insane amount of collateral. Gosling and Evans are so thoroughly entertaining and work magic together as the hostile adversaries.

Evans on playing Lloyd

“Lloyd is at his most dangerous when he’s at his most friendly.”

“My mustache! [Laughs] What can I say? Certain characters just come to life through something simple, whether it’s wardrobe or a prop. The second that we cut that mustache I was like 'Oh there he is, there’s this psycho.'
But seriously, I’m excited for audiences to see Ryan in a true action movie and to have so many good characters and so many good performances and to blend those worlds of action and drama.”

Ana de Armas reunites with both her co-stars from Blade Runner 2049 (Gosling), and Knives Out (Evans) in the all-star studded film. She plays Dani Miranda, a smart and kickass agent who helps Six with his mission, however the movie does little to show any sort of range of her acting chops. She is very one-dimensional and doesn't get much time to shine aside from being a typical pretty sidekick. They could have given her character more depth and played with the possibility of her being a rogue agent or a key operative more.

NETFLIX Page, Armas

Regé-Jean Page plays the toxic misogynistic power hungry and entitled Agency Group Chief Denny Carmichael, but unfortunately Page also comes off as just another attractive face thrown in the mix. Denny is incredibly whiny, throws temper tantrums and complains a lot. His character is very stereotypical as the new head honcho in charge, who has a power-trip and is clearly hiding something. What the film fails to show is exactly what that is, it is kind of brushed over very quickly- the typical overt ops, conspiracies and cover-ups in a minute of uncovered footage. The film could have made him a little more menacing.

The Russo brothers certainly raised the bar for blockbuster filmmaking in artistry, scope, and box office returns with their string of MCU properties. “Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Captain America: Civil War (2016), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), and Avengers: Endgame (2019), which in addition to concluding the “Avengers saga” racked up numerous industry records, including Biggest Single-Day Gross, Highest-Grossing Opening Weekend, and Highest-Grossing Film of All Time.” (netflix)

Without a doubt this is visually a Russo brothers movie, with its incredible cinematography, wide- angle shots, globe-trotting and impressive stunt work. There was loads of action, great hand-to-hand combat/gunplay and some memorable action scenes. Overall, the movie is a lot of fun but it is unoriginal and brings nothing new to the spy-action genre. It lacked any actual detective work, espionage, or smarts. It displays concepts we've seen over and over again- the unrealistic jump out of a burning plane scene, the jump off a moving train onto your buddies car scene, and even somewhat similar premises to movies like the Bourne series and Looper. 

From a storytelling standpoint it generally keeps it safe and some jokes just don't land. It is not quite original and lacks its own identity. The colors scheme is vibrant neon reminiscent of the visuals of the John Wick franchise, although this was aesthetically pleasing as they traveled around the world showcasing different countries and backdrops. The third act and very last scene were unanticipated but not in a good way. It seems as if they tried to make it a common theme “just another Thursday '' but it just didn’t stick as the last escape was unrealistic, frivolous and unnecessary. The film featured mediocre storytelling, and a lot of things just don’t entirely make sense.

The Gray Man is a fun high-octane, non-stop adrenaline rush full of vibrant colors, explosions and some of the most attractive faces in Hollywood. It’s a considerably solid movie that plays it safe, the story and the dialogue can be a little silly, but ultimately we’re watching for the ass-kicking.

THE GRAY MAN RELEASES GLOBALLY ON NETFLIX ON JULY 22, 2022

Overall: 7/10

While the adrenaline-filled film boasts an all-star cast, top-notch camera-work and impressive stunt work, it lacks in character development and story giving us concepts we’ve seen over and over. However, it's clearly a Russo Brothers movie as they deliver a film that is sure to drive audiences to screens as it displays impressive hand-to-hand combat, massive shootouts, and high-speed chases with a very enticing cast that makes it absolutely worth the watch.

Sweet Suite 2022 - Upcoming Releases from FUNKO GAMES !

By Nadya Martinez

Last week O&G got to check out all the latest toys at SWEET SUITE !

Hosted by the Toy Insider, Sweet Suite is a legendary toy party for members of the press and top-tier digital influencers, including Instagram stars and popular YouTube creators. At Sweet Suite 2022, guests will get up close and personal with the coolest new toys, collectibles, video games, and more from popular toy companies. This party is all about fun, and it’s full of interactive experiences like photo opps, contests, games, and so much more. Guests will enjoy delicious food and cocktails, all while getting a first look at new product reveals and getting inspired for upcoming holiday gift guides.

Here’s the latest from FUNKO GAMES !

A Goofy Movie Game

Global superstar Powerline is back on tour! Join Max and his friends as they hit the road in this adventure-filled race to the concert! Make your way across the map, collecting fun memories for your scrapbook. Then hurry to score the best seats by the time Powerline hits the stage!Play cards to collect memories and travel to new locations! Roll the die to see if Powerline reaches L.A. or Goofy takes you on a wacky detour! Make the most memories and score the best seats at the concert to win!I

Interesting Gameplay Features
•Includes 6 detailed character figures.
•Travel across the road map game board to reach L.A.
•Roll the giant gold, sparkly die to see where Goofy and Powerline go!
•90s visual design captures nostalgia for the film.
•Original card art depicts beloved locations and moments from the movie.

Game Contents
•Game Board •Goofy Mover •Powerline Mover •4 Character Movers •48 Character Cards •50 Scrapbook Cards •4 Reference Cards •6 Bonus Tokens •Die •Instructions

Game Details •Strategy game• Ages 7+ •For 2–4 players •30-minute gameplay •On-shelf mid-2022* •Game dimensions: 10.5”W x10.5”H x 2.5”D •Master case count 4 •MSRP $23.99

Disney A Goofy Movie Game MSRP: $23.99 Ages:7+
Available Now

Marvel Battleworld: Ultimate Armory Series 3

Battle Ball Pick your favorite Hero, rescue your friends, and win battles to defeat Thanos! Battleworld is a revolutionary cooperative, expandable, collectible adventure game featuring dozens of characters from all over the Marvel Universe! Players get to crack open the mysterious Thanostones during the course of play to reveal the mystery character inside for a constant sense of surprise and delight! Series 3 introduces us to brand new locations, battles, and exciting new game mechanics that will continue to challenge players and test their strategies!

Interesting Product Features
•Expanded series to include 30+ unique new characters from exciting locations all over Battleworld, including cool rare variants! Collect them all!
•New Armor Tokens make the Battles more challenging but also aid the Heroes in making more powerful attacks!
•Unique team-based or solo gameplay allows players to jump into Battle world right away!
•Collectible characters come with their own game cards for immersive, cooperative play. Collect all the unique powers and abilities!
•Free the mystery character from the “Thanostone.” Each time youcrack one open, it’s a surprise!

Marvel Battleworld: Series 3 Ultimate Armory Battle Ball MSRP: $9.99 Ages:6+
Available Now

Disney Kingdomania: Series 1 – Game Ball

Enter the digital game world of Disney Kingdomania! Each level features cherished Disney stories and characters, but troublesome Glitches are causing chaos and mixing up the levels! Patch the problems before they crash the game!Each Game Ball contains everything you need to play, including two mystery characters and 10 unique level tiles. Combine multiple Game Balls for more players, and expand the fun with dozens of figures to collect!

Interesting Gameplay Features
•Series 1 features 40 figures from eight beloved Disney properties. Collect them all—including exclusive items, variants, and chase figures!
•Each Game Ball contains everything you need to play, including two character figures with unique game tiles and special powers.
•Play solo or combine Game Balls to add more players!
•Build your own game level each time you play, and collect more tiles to create bigger, multi-level games.
•Discover the rare Glitch figures—only available in Game balls!

Disney Kingdomania: Series 1 Game Ball MSRP: $9.99Ages: 6+
Available:October 2022

Disney Kingdomania: Series 1 Super Game Pack MSRP: $22.99 Ages: 6+
Available:October 20