An intimate look at the extraordinary rise, fall, and redemption of televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker (Jessica Chastain). In the 1970s and ’80s, Tammy Faye and her husband Jim Bakker (Andrew Garfield), rose from humble beginnings to create the world’s largest religious broadcasting network and theme park and were revered for their message of love, acceptance, and prosperity. Tammy Faye was legendary for her indelible eyelashes, her idiosyncratic singing, and her eagerness to embrace people from all walks of life. However, it wasn’t long before financial improprieties, scheming rivals, and scandal toppled their carefully constructed empire.

Hollywood star Jessica Chastain joins forces with filmmaker Michael Showalter for a groovy, hip, witty and dramatic true story of faith and love with the extraordinary true-life story of Tammy Faye Bakker. Charting the rise of Tammy Faye from obscurity in the early 1960s to a successful early television career before she and her husband Jim Bakker (Andrew Garfield) go on to become the pre-eminent American Christian televangelists in the 1970s and 1980s, The Eyes of Tammy Faye is truly something else. It’s a fast-moving, feet-tapping movie that brings a great musical-comedy to the sensational true-life of Tammy Faye, and just when you think this woman’s life couldn’t get more extraordinary, it does. Showalter embraces the faith and style of Tammy Faye in his production and his direction makes for a colourful, yet dramatic character study.

In viewing The Eyes of Tammy Faye I had recollections of comedy-musical classic Grease and Showalter’s attention to detail pulls you in fast. With Chastain as his creative partner, the two craft a very engaging film that touches on the subject matter very few know about and the depth and detail of this movie are incredibly interesting to look at. Taking audiences inside the light and grace of the American evangelical movement and its prominence in the voice of conservative American politics during the Regan era, there’s a lot of story contained in the narrative of The Eyes of Tammy Faye. Showalter gives Chastain the space for her to showcase her considerable acting chops as she fully embraces the character of Tammy Faye, and brings to life the light and joy, trials and tribulations and ultimately the faith of her life.

For Jessica Chastain, The Eyes of Tammy Faye is a truly transformative role and she slips completely into the voice, stance and style of the famed Tammy Faye. Best described as a maximalist in every possible way, complete with a mink coat, voluminous red hair, big lips, bigger eye-liner and a spot on ‘Minnesota Nice’ accent, Tammy Faye Bakker is one of a kind. She’s a woman who stands out amongst the crowd, but she’s neither selfish nor self-involved and this is a woman just being herself, rather than putting on any kind of mask. A natural entertainer in every sense of the word, Tammy Faye loves to perform and bring joy to her audience and will do everything in her power to give them a little bit of her faith.

Chastain shows the full breadth of Tammy Faye as a woman. Always a good Christian girl, she’s someone who needs to give love and receive it with open arms. She’s simply a lover of people and God and you feel in Chastain’s performance a true empathy for those people she’s around. Tammy Faye is also not one to shy away from controversy and in the harsh conservative era of the 1980s, she engages in a dialogue on subjects ranging from sex to LGBT rights to the rise of the AIDs crisis and infidelity. Chastain doesn’t hide anything in her performance of Tammy Faye, and this includes a dangerous and prolonged drug addiction that almost killed her, but which in its aftermath made her stronger as a person. And audiences are treated to Chastain’s incredible signing voice and she can carry a serious note.

Alongside its exploration of Chastain’s Tammy Faye audiences are also introduced to her do-gooding, yet shady husband Jim Bakker (Andrew Garfield). Starting as a committed evangelical preacher, Jim soon brings a world of sin into his life which lead to a horrific sexual assault scandal and one of America’s biggest ever fraud cases through Bakker’s misappropriation of funds from his ministry PTL. Andrew Garfield brings terrific movement to his performance, starting with a ‘gee-whizz’ kind of good-boy vibe, before turning into a vindictive two-faced villain who will do anything to keep his ministry afloat, no matter how low he has to reach. Joining Garfield as the film’s co-villain is Vincent D’Onofrio as the famed minister and conservative American voice Jerry Falwell, and he’s perfect as the hard-lined conservative who’ll do anything to see his vision of America realized.

The Eyes of Tammy Faye deals with big issues of sincerity, faith and above all things love. It’s the expression and acceptance of love in the film that is its most dominant theme, and this essential human emotion has a big emphasis on Tammy Faye’s character development throughout the narrative. As a young girl who was born illegitimate and always wanted love from her harsh-tonged mother, Tammy Faye will go to any length to find it, and it’s the dominating force in her life. Her need to feel love and express it guides every action she takes in the film, and you see a woman who truly cares for people, and that’s rare in the judgement-filled world in which she lives and works. Chastain has a clear handling of the narrative’s themes in her performance, and through her, they make this movie so special to watch.

The Eyes of Tammy Faye is a picture that is sure to move and entertain you. It’s packed together with music, light and fun and is a portrait of an extraordinary woman. You can’t help but feel moved by its narrative and it’s one of the best times you’ll have at the movies all year.

Image: 20th Century Studios

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The X-Men face their most formidable and powerful foe: one of their own, Jean Grey (Sophie Turner). During a rescue mission in space, Jean is nearly killed when she is hit by a mysterious cosmic force. Once she returns home, this force not only makes her infinitely more powerful but far more unstable. Wrestling with this entity inside her, Jean unleashes her powers in ways she can neither comprehend nor contain. With Jean spiralling out of control and hurting the ones she loves most, she begins to unravel the very fabric that holds the X-Men together. Now, with this family falling apart, they must find a way to unite — not only to save Jean’s soul but to save our very planet from aliens who wish to weaponize this force and rule the galaxy.

Long-time X-Men champion Simon Kinberg steps up to take the directing chair here for Dark Phoenix, and he crafts an interesting tale of family tension and unmatched power. In this latest chapter of the X-Men franchise, following the events of X-Men: Apocalypse, mutants are now free to live side-by-side with humanity and the X-Men are celebrated as international celebrity heroes. But when a new extra-terrestrial danger arrives on earth the very heart of this team is threatened and it’s here where things get interesting. With his film, Kinberg crafts a unique trinity dynamic between Charles Xavier, Jean Grey and Erik Lehnsherr and watching the dynamics of two different causes play out here results in plenty of action.

Once again James McAvoy commands particular attention as Professor Charles Xavier, a champion for mutant rights and acceptance who through hard work and time has made the world a brighter place for his kind, albeit inflating his ego in the process. His story here is one of hubris, as a past secret comes back to haunt him and threatens everything he has built. It’s fascinating to watch McAvoy’s turmoil as Charles has to battle the inner demons of his student Jean Grey, whom he has come to see as a surrogate daughter and their relationship and battles between one another highlight this thematic battle between adolescence and adulthood that the X-Men franchise has always examined. I liked how tested McAvoy was in the role and we really got to see Xavier’s flaws open up as he once again had to put away his own sense of self and return to the moral centre of this world that he has always been. And it resulted in plenty of great drama.

Taking centre stage in Dark Phoenix is Jean Grey herself and rising star Sophie Turner has plenty of material to work with here. After a freak accident leaves her imbued with a god-like alien power we see a terrifying power play burst out of her character, and this gives Turner plenty of room to stretch. Watching her as Jean, and the fluctuating boundaries of this new character I read into it an examination of an almost bi-polar individual who fluctuates violently between herself and this savage new force inside of her. As the Dark Phoenix, Jean is an unstoppable force and you buy into Turner’s dominance of the screen through the power that she wields. But next to this is the hurt and anguish that she finds herself in after she snaps back to herself and this drama is a real test for the character. Dark Phoenix was a big step up for Turner and she really proves herself here as she absolutely commands the centre of the audience and its attention.

Finally completing this trinity is Michael Fassbender who returns as the dark and charismatic Erik Lehnsherr. And Magneto himself has undergone considerable change here. Brushing aside his past anger and violence he now appears to have found some sort of peace with an assortment of followers on the island of Genosha, creating a self-contained homeland for them. But the arrival of Jean Grey and her actions bring out the beast in him and soon he is donning the helmet of Magneto once more. Fassbender has always been the straight-up cool factor of this franchise and again he does not disappoint with his performance here. His appearance also brings the narrative back to the brotherhood themes that were first explored between himself and McAvoy back in X-Men: First Class, and it’s great to see this relationship once again come full circle.

Fans who are wanting action will be in for a treat with X-Men: Dark Phoenix as Kinberg layers it on heavy. Jean’s powers turn her into a literal living weapon and the film’s third act is one massive action showcase that really throws you back into your seat. Another thing that I really enjoyed about X-Men: Dark Phoenix was the science fiction leanings that the film went in, and this again set it apart from the other comic book movies in the genre.

X-Men: Dark Phoenix is a fun ride for fans of the franchise and brings about a close to the series with a spot-on sense of nostalgia. See it now.

Image: 20th Century Fox

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Trained to be a competitive Olympic skier her whole life, Molly Bloom (Jessica Chastain) finds her dream cut short by a very unlucky twist of fate. Suddenly with her life spun around Molly moves to Los Angeles and is introduced to the world of high-stakes, closed-door underground poker. Throwing herself into this new world she soon learns how the system works and soon starts up her own very glamorous game. Her hard work soon leads to great wealth and success, along with some very shady connections with a host of dangerous mafioso types. Finding herself caught up in a media and legal firestorm Molly will have to use all her wits to survive.

Molly’s Game is simply one of the best films you’ll see all year. There’s no other way to put it. Writer/director Aaron Sorkin makes his debut behind the camera and he really knows how to shoot a movie. In addition to his cracking dialogue and vast understanding of character Sorkin crafts a beautifully polished narrative that really takes Molly, and the audience, for one hell of a ride. From the seedy backroom bars of Los Angeles to the height of sophistication and glamour of New York Molly Bloom lived one hell of a life. Sorkin captures all of it, and his use of lighting, cinematography, costuming and location helps to bring Molly’s incredible world together.

Jessica Chastain is on fire as Molly Bloom! The lauded actress jumps head-first into a very difficult role which is marked by fierce competition and a commitment to excellence. As Bloom Chastain is smart, cunning, sharp, fierce and absolutely uncompromising. This is a woman who will not stop until she achieves her goal and this applies to her both building her own poker empire, and fighting to clear her name in court. Chastain channels Molly’s rebel entrepreneurship perfectly and she definitely is willing to go to some uncomfortable places as the character, as Molly earns a few scrapes along the way.

My favourite part of Chastain’s performance is how she channel’s Molly’s ability to never become a victim. While this is a woman who is adept at winning she’s also faced some intense hardships in her life and knows what it’s like to lose. But through all of that she’s never one to be a declared a victim. Molly’s a fighter and even in her most dire situation she won’t back down or let anyone get one over on her. It’s an inspired performance from Chastain and her bravery to take on any challenge will fill you up with a fire to do the same.

Standing next to Chastain in Molly’s Game is the very suave Idris Elba as her defence attorney Charlie Jaffe. Kitted out in perfectly tailored suits, and all around class, Charlie is a man who’s just as smart as Molly and won’t be a party to her games or cunning. He’s very much her equal and is ready to call her on her mistakes and the laws that she may have broken. But while Idris makes for a very sharp shooter he also admires Molly’s integrity and work ethic and takes her on as a client.

Chastain and Elba make a great pair together on screen. They’re two performers who are at the top of their game and they really complement each other perfectly on screen. Their back and forth arguments over the truth are incredibly vivid, and when they do decide to fight together to clear Molly’s name you’re certain that they will win.

While Molly’s Game might be a serious award contender it’s also an incredibly entertaining film. They say truth is sometimes stranger than fiction and this definitely applies to Molly’s Game and that’s why it’s so exciting. The narrative is sharp, the characters are strong and you never know what’s going to happen next, just like the best games of Texas hold’em. And did I mention that you’ll get a masters in poker by the end of the movie? Yep, Sorkin vividly breaks down the game and really makes you feel the excitement and adrenaline when a big hand is shown up on screen. These games are some of the most intense moments in the film and they really get you going.

Molly’s Game is by far one of the most entertaining films I’ve seen in a long time and it makes for very exciting viewing. I highly recommend that you go and see it immediately, and afterwards you’ll learn why you should go all in, bet large and never fold.

Image: EOne Films

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A new trailer has been released and is packed out with quick wit, crackling dialogue and one hell of a performance from Chastain. Check it out below:

Based on the life of Molly Bloom, a former Olympian who used her entrepreneurial genius to start the world’s most decadent underground poker club that had a list of clients that included high flying businessmen, Hollywood actors and unscrupulous gangsters. Molly’s activities would ultimately lead her into trouble with the Russian mafia, and to her arrest at the hands at the FBI that set the stage for one of the most sensational trials ever seen in the United States.

In addition to the talents of Chastain and Sorkin, debonair performer Idris Elba is also part of the cast and takes on the role of Molly’s attorney Charlie Jaffey who can’t believe the story that is taking place in front of him.

Packed out with intense drama and sensational style, Molly’s Game is essential viewing and will be released in cinemas later this year.

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Based on the true-life of Molly Bloom, a former Olympian, who after falling on hard times started up the world’s most exclusive, and clandestine poker game in the world. Molly’s talents and flair for spectacle drew the presence of big money and she was soon rolling in the cash. But then the FBI came knocking and she found herself in one of the most sensational court cases in U.S. history.

Chastain absolutely nails the role of the sharply tuned Molly and knows every single angle of her world famous and extraordinarily wealthy clientele. Then there’s Idris Elba as her attorney Charlie Jaffey, who while fighting to acquit her of the charges that have been brought against her cannot help but be impressed by what she has achieved.

One of coolest parts of Molly’s Game is that it is the directorial debut of celebrated screenwriter Aaron Sorkin (The Social Network, Moneyball, The West Wing, A Few Good Men) and audiences can expect plenty of slick dialogue here.

Molly’s Game will be released on November 23.

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Here’s the synopsis:

Set during World War II, The Zookeeper’s Wife tells the incredible true-life story of Antonia Zabinski (Chastain) who, along with her husband Jan (Johan Heldenbergh), sheltered more than 300 Polish Jews from the Nazi’s reach during their occupation of Poland at the Warsaw Zoo.

If you’re looking for an emotional rollercoaster then you’ll definitely find it in The Zookeeper’s Wife. From beginning to end, the film’s trailer pairs the magic and splendour of Antonia’s Warsaw Zoo, with the very real threat imposed by Nazi Germany. Chastain’s courage in the role is inspiring to watch, especially as she stands up to Daniel Brühl’s ambitious German zoologist Lutz Heck, who has sided with the Nazis in order to pillage the Warsaw Zoo of its animals. The trailer certainly forces you to fight back the emotions, and we’re certain that you’ll need some tissues beside you to get through this one.

The Zookeeper’s Wife will be released in cinemas on March 31, 2017 in the US and UK and on May 4 in New Zealand and Australia.

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Set in a crumbling mansion in a largely rural and mountainous region of northern England in the 19th century, young author Edith Cushing (Mia Wasikowska) discovers that her charming new husband Sir Thomas Sharpe (Tom Hiddleston) is not who he appears to be.

Here’s five reasons to watch del Toro’s latest offering:

5. Ghoulish Ghosts

While Crimson Peak may be grounded in the genre of gothic romance, it certainly doesn’t skimp on the scares, and there are plenty of ghostly moments that will send a shiver down the spines of audience members. Not long after its opening frame we are introduced to Guillermo’s benevolent spirits who have much to contribute to the evolving drama of Crimson Peak. Del Toro is clever in how he uses them to the film’s advantage, and combined with crisp, eerie sound design, the hauntings of Crimson Peak are disturbingly real.

4. Tom Hiddleston, and Jessica Chastain: The Darkest of Siblings

Crimson Peak is a phenomenal movie to behold, thanks in large part to the casting of Tom Hiddleston, and Jessica Chastain as the menacing Sharpe siblings. Both performers excel in their respective roles, with Hiddleston owning the screen as the dapper and mysterious Sir Thomas Sharpe, while Chastain brings a venomous menace as his horrific sister Lady Lucille Sharpe. Hiddleston and Chastain are totally in command of their twisted and enigmatic characters, and the subtlety in which they reveal every character trait makes for a compelling watch. When all is finally revealed, a twisted sense of shock will come over audiences, and it’s all thanks to the stellar performances from these incredible thespians.

3. Allerdale Hall: A Living Creature

While ghosts may lurk through its dark, haunted halls, the manor house of Allerdale Hall is without a doubt the creepiest character of all. This grand manor home is a living, breathing creature that howls in the dark, and whose rotting walls and hallways are filled with secrets that refuse to remain buried. The construction and attention to detail within Allerdale Hall is incredible, and del Toro and his skilled artisans have crafted a remarkable set. With shadows at every turn, it’s a place where one would be advised not to get lost.

2. Mia Wasikowska: From Ingénue to Heroine

At the centre of Crimson Peak is the brilliant Mia Wasikowska who gives a compelling performance as the film’s heroine Edith Cushing. Designed as a thoroughly modern heroine in a bygone era, Edith is a determined novelist whose interests in ghosts and the macabre becomes all too real when she falls for Sir Thomas, and accepts his proposal. Wasikowska is so natural and involved as Edith that she loses herself within the part, and her journey from a slightly lovelorn ingénue to a feisty survivor, who is determined to end the horrors at the heart of Allerdale Hall, is an inspired cinematic journey.

1. A Love Letter from Guillermo Del Toro

Above all else, Crimson Peak is a love letter to the genre of gothic romance from its director, the brilliantly creative and passionate Guillermo del Toro. Not only has he created a rich and layered film experience that audiences will lose themselves in, but del Toro has once again demonstrated his passion and flair for detail with every frame. Filling every scene with beautiful crisp colours and haunted architecture that feels aged, del Toro has also taken incredible care with every aspect of the story, which ultimately heightens the struggle of Edith Cushing. Crimson Peak is a touching love letter to the beautiful scares and intense drama of Grand Guignol horror, and del Toro has once again crafted a piece of cinema that will stick with audiences.

Image source: Paramount Films.

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Set in Crumbia, in a crumbling mansion in a largely rural and mountainous region of northern England in the 19th century, young author Edith Cushing (Mia Wasikowska) discovers that her charming new husband Sir Thomas Sharpe (Tom Hiddleston) is not who he appears to be.

The new trailer is alarmingly creepy and forboding with signs of horror around every corner. Get set for a thousand jump scares, and be ready to sleep with the lights on after Crimson Peak is released in cinemas on October 15.

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