Film review: ‘It Ends With Us’ directed by Justin Baldoni

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Updated 09 August 2024
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Film review: ‘It Ends With Us’ directed by Justin Baldoni

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  • Lily — named after a flower traditionally used at funerals —is perhaps Lively’s most emotionally raw character and one which fully shows her range as an actress

If you’ve caught glimpses of actress Blake Lively smiling brightly as she wears dreamy, floral-inspired garments for the press tour of her latest film, “It Ends With Us,” you might be fooled into assuming that her character — a florist aptly named Lily Blossom Bloom — has a tranquil life that is just a walk in the park.

Lily certainly wakes up and smells the roses — even if they are found to be prickly, with bloody thorns.

Trigger warning: the narrative explores themes related to domestic violence and childhood trauma. The author of the 2016 novel on which the film is based, Colleen Hoover, has said the story was inspired by her parents’ relationship.

The story is ripped straight from a heartbreaking headline that many women know all too well: You think that your life is finally going perfectly and you’ve found the right partner, only to find that nothing is what it seems. The hand that once held you tenderly is the one that hits you. The face that you once found comfort in becomes the one that is most terrifying to you.

Like a fresh flower, your dreams can sometimes shrivel up and die.

Lily — named after a flower traditionally used at funerals —is perhaps Lively’s most emotionally raw character and one which fully shows her range as an actress. Over the course of the film she is funny, joyous, endearing, sad, confused, vulnerable, strong, scared and empowered.

The film is directed by Justin Baldoni (“Jane the Virgin”) who also stars as Lily’s husband, Dr. Ryle Kincaid. It also showcases the acting chops of comedians Jenny Slate and Hasan Minhaj, who play a happily married couple who help Lily along on her journey; as well as Brandon Sklenar, as Atlas — Lily’s first love who reappears in her life when she least expects it.

In what is perhaps the most emotional scene in the entire movie, you can hear the gothic, choir-inflected, layered vocals of Lively’s real-life friend Taylor Swift as she sings the 2020 sleeper hit, “My Tears Ricochet.” The haunting song made the unraveling scene seem much more dire.

While the story’s climax does feel like it was hastily wrapped up in a neat bow, it’s also the ending most of us would hope for if we were in that situation.

“It Ends With Us” is both love story and cautionary tale. It speaks of resistance, perseverance, and friendship.

The film starts and ends with Lily driving a car on an open road. But she is not the same, and, after watching the rollercoaster of a narrative unfold, neither is the viewer.

 

 


Mona Zaki-starring ‘Flight 404’ chosen as Egypt’s Oscars submission

Mona Zaki-starring ‘Flight 404’ chosen as Egypt’s Oscars submission
Updated 17 September 2024
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Mona Zaki-starring ‘Flight 404’ chosen as Egypt’s Oscars submission

Mona Zaki-starring ‘Flight 404’ chosen as Egypt’s Oscars submission

DUBAI: Egyptian actress Mona Zaki and the Egyptian Film Syndicate announced this week that the film “Flight 404” will be Egypt’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2025 Academy Awards.

This means that the film will be considered for the shortlist. If the movie gets shortlisted, it could then get nominated for an Academy Award.

The movie tells the story of Ghada, who, just days before her Hajj pilgrimage, is confronted with an emergency that requires a large sum of money. Forced to seek help, she must turn to individuals from a troubled past she had promised to leave behind.

Besides Zaki, the film, directed by filmmaker Hani Khalifa and scripted by Mohamed Ragaa, stars actors Mohamed Farag, Mohamed Mamdouh, Shereen Reda, Khaled El-Sawy, Mohamed Alaa, Hassan Al-Adl, Sama Ibrahim, Shadi Alfons, Rana Raies, Gihan El-Shamashergy and Arfa Abdel Rassoul.

The Oscar’s 97th edition is set to take place on March 3, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. 

Key dates for the 2025 submissions and voting were announced earlier this year. The deadline for general entries and Best Picture submissions is Thursday, Nov. 14. Preliminary voting for shortlists in ten categories will occur between Dec. 9-13, with the results to be revealed on Dec. 17. The nominations voting period will run from Jan. 8-12, and the official nominations will be announced on Friday, Jan. 17—a shift from the usual earlier-in-the-week schedule.

Last year, Egypt selected Mohamed Farag-starring “Voy Voy Voy!” as its entry for the Oscars’ Best International Feature Film award, while Yemen selected director Amr Gamal’s “The Burdened” and Tunisia competed with Kaouther Ben Hania’s “Four Daughters.” Morocco selected Asmae El-Moudir’s documentary “The Mother of All Lies.” 

Jordan submitted Amjad Al-Rasheed’s movie “Inshallah a Boy” and Palestine submitted Lina Soualem’s documentary “Bye Bye Tiberias.” 

None of the films won at the 2024 Oscars, though “Four Daughters” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, a category ultimately won by “20 Days in Mariupol.” This marked a historic moment for director Kaouther Ben Hania, as she became the first Arab woman to receive a second Oscar nomination.


Peggy Gou, Teddy Swims round out Abu Dhabi F1 concerts

Peggy Gou, Teddy Swims round out Abu Dhabi F1 concerts
Updated 17 September 2024
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Peggy Gou, Teddy Swims round out Abu Dhabi F1 concerts

Peggy Gou, Teddy Swims round out Abu Dhabi F1 concerts

DUBAI: US singer and song-writer Teddy Swims and South Korean DJ and singer Peggy Gou have been announced as the final artists for the 16th edition of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the 2024 Yasalam after-race concerts, headlining the opening day on Dec. 5.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Yasalam (@yasalamae)

 Swims, 31, who blends genres including R&B, soul, country and pop, will take to the stage at Etihad Park and will perform some of his biggest hits including “Lose Control.”

 Gou will then perform and close out the first evening of concerts. She will play some of her best-known hits including “It Makes You Forget” (Itgehane), “Starry Night,” “Jigoo” (with US house music legend Maurice Fulton), “Nabi” (with fellow Korean artist OHHYUK) and “Go.” 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Yasalam (@yasalamae)

The rest of the line-up includes US pop rock band Maroon 5, who appear on Dec. 6, US rapper Eminem who will perform on Dec. 7, and British rock group Muse, who will hit the stage on Dec. 8.

Access to the after-race concerts is exclusive to Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix ticket holders.


REVIEW: Colin Farrell is resplendent as Batman villain in ‘The Penguin,’ HBO’s new slow-burn crime epic

REVIEW: Colin Farrell is resplendent as Batman villain in ‘The Penguin,’ HBO’s new slow-burn crime epic
Updated 17 September 2024
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REVIEW: Colin Farrell is resplendent as Batman villain in ‘The Penguin,’ HBO’s new slow-burn crime epic

REVIEW: Colin Farrell is resplendent as Batman villain in ‘The Penguin,’ HBO’s new slow-burn crime epic
  • The spin-off of Matt Reeves’ ‘Batman’ — a lush and fully realized mob drama — drops weekly on OSN+ from Sept. 20

DUBAI: Audiences will be forgiven for rolling their eyes at yet-another supervillain origin story. But thanks to Colin Farrell’s “The Penguin,” for the first time in a very long time, you won’t walk away from your TV feeling mildly dissatisfied or pining for the long-gone golden age of superhero storytelling.

HBO’s eight-episode limited series — written and created by Lauren LeFranc (“Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” and “Chuck”) and streaming weekly on OSN+ in the Middle East from Sept. 20  — tells the story of the rise of Oswald “the Penguin” Cobb, or just “Oz,” from underworld criminal to mob kingpin; and does so in a richly realized manner that will earn comparisons to TV epics such as “The Sopranos.”

The show begins a week after the events of Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” (2022), where the citizens of Gotham are recovering from the deadly floods released by the Riddler, destroying entire neighborhoods and killing thousands. Oz (Farrell, who again disappears into the role thanks to game-changing prosthetics and acting instincts honed over decades) plans to exploit the chaos of the floods and the power vacuum left behind by the recent death of mob boss Carmine Falcone (Mark Strong).

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by OSN+ (@osnplus)

Helping him in his endeavour is young Victor (Rhenzy Feliz), a wannabe criminal who lost everything to the flood. Oz and Victor’s pseudo father-son dynamic forms the beating heart of a tragic story of corruption, greed and violence; and accurately depicts how monsters are not born but created by a society that is sick at its core.

Additionally stirring the pot is Cristin Milioti’s Sofia Falcone, Carmine Falcone’s daughter who is released from Arkham Asylum after a 10-year stint and is looking to take control of her father’s empire.

“The Penguin” sings when Farrell is on screen. The Irish actor gives the role his all, and watching him go from impulsive and rage-filled violence to quiet vulnerability to easy charm and then wounded puppy is a treat to behold.

And it is not always an easy watch, either. An episode dedicated to Sofia’s backstory that examines her life before, during and immediately after her stint in Arkham Asylum makes for a riveting but incredibly grizzly and difficult sit. Milioti handles Sofia’s justified anger and need for control and power with mesmerizing charm and deliciously dark humor.

With “The Penguin,” LeFranc has created something truly transformative, and no amount of superhero fatigue should keep you from watching it.


Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador

Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador
Updated 13 September 2024
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Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador

Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador
  • Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani considers it an honor and responsibility to represent nation’s tourism program

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia actor Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, 10, who has been an ambassador for the Saudi Summer Program 2024, has brought an intense passion and energy to the role.

With a career marked by appearances in commercials and TV series, Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally.

Al-Qahtani told Arab News: “I’ve always loved performing. I started by acting in ads for big brands like Infiniti Cars, Al-Rajhi Bank and Aramco. These opportunities allowed me to explore different facets of acting and build a solid foundation in the industry.”

Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Saudi actor

His experience includes campaigns for the ministries of health and environment, water and agriculture, as well as the Misk Foundation.

His acting career has been marked by outstanding performances in series including “Al-Deek Al-Azraq” and “Orim.”

Al-Qahtani’s upcoming film, “Shahd,” has also generated considerable excitement among his fans. “Acting is my real passion … Growing up, my culture deeply influenced the roles I chose. I feel fortunate to work on projects that resonate with my heritage and bring our stories to life.”

It’s a special chance to share the beauty and diversity of our country’s summer experiences with the world. I take this role very seriously and am dedicated to making the most of it.

Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Saudi actor

Transitioning to his role as the ambassador for the Saudi Summer Program, Al-Qahtani considers it an honor and responsibility.

“I’m thrilled … it’s a special chance to share the beauty and diversity of our country’s summer experiences with the world. I take this role very seriously and am dedicated to making the most of it,” he said.

As part of his duties, Al-Qahtani has been touring Saudi Arabia, exploring various summer destinations and participating in local events.

Al-Qahtani said: “Every place I visit has its own unique charm. Boulevard City in Riyadh is incredibly dynamic, while Jeddah Corniche offers a beautiful blend of sea and city. Abha, where I grew up, holds a special place in my heart, and I’m always excited to share its beauty with others.”

One of the standout moments of his tour was attending the King Cup final in Jeddah. “It was a significant event, and representing the summer program there was a source of immense pride for me. It felt like a perfect blend of sports and cultural celebration.”

A particularly memorable experience for him was meeting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb in Asir. The meeting offered Al-Qahtani insights into the ongoing efforts to boost the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

“Meeting the minister was an invaluable experience,” he said. “I learned a lot about the strategies and initiatives aimed at promoting tourism in Saudi Arabia. It was inspiring to see the commitment and vision behind these efforts.”

During the interaction, Al-Qahtani held a kite adorned with the program’s logo and Al-Khateeb drew a picture symbolizing summer on it. “(It) was a special moment for me. It felt like a meaningful connection to the program and underscored the collaborative spirit of this initiative.”

Looking ahead, Al-Qahtani is enthusiastic about continuing his acting career while remaining committed to his ambassadorial role.

“I’m excited to keep working as an actor and take on new challenges,” he added. “I’m also dedicated to promoting Saudi Arabia’s cultural and artistic scene. Football is another passion of mine, and I hope to explore opportunities in that area as well.”

The four-month Saudi Summer Program runs until the end of September and includes Asir, Baha, Taif, Jeddah, Riyadh, the Red Sea and AlUla. There have been hundreds of events offered with more than 100 partners.

 


Saudi rapper Asayel discusses her debut single, ‘Asliyah’ 

Saudi rapper Asayel discusses her debut single, ‘Asliyah’ 
Updated 13 September 2024
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Saudi rapper Asayel discusses her debut single, ‘Asliyah’ 

Saudi rapper Asayel discusses her debut single, ‘Asliyah’ 

DUBAI: Saudi rapper, singer and songwriter Asayel Bishi (who uses just her first name as an artist) has released her debut single, “Asliyah” on MDLBeast Records. In it, according to a press release, she “addresses naysayers and doubters with a playful smirk, her words laced with Hejazi slang (Bishi was born and raised in Makkah but now lives in Jeddah) and a wisdom beyond her years.” 

The song is billed as “a statement of intent” and will serve, for most, as an introduction to Bishi’s music. Her flow, on this track at least, is deliberate, closer to a spoken-word performance than a rap. And that was a conscious decision, she says.  

She released her debut single, “Asliyah” on MDLBeast Records. (Supplied)

“I’m actually telling a story. I’m not really rapping and I’m not singing,” she says. “It’s like I’m talking to someone. This is stuff that really happened to me and stuff that I really want people to know. I’m basically telling how people have mocked my style. And the reasons why they don’t like my style. And at the end, I’m saying, like, ‘OK. I’m here. And I’m entering the scene.’” 

The colorful accompanying video was shot on the streets of Jeddah.  

“All the locations in the video are very famous (here). The director (Ahmed Lebleb) wanted to reflect the image that, here in Jeddah, you can do these (creative) things. It’s not just about the beach and swimming,” Bishi explains.  

The colorful accompanying video was shot on the streets of Jeddah. (Supplied)

“Asliyah,” Bishi tells Arab News, was the first song she wrote in Arabic.  

“When I started out, I was writing in English, but when I started working with MDLBeast, they told me, ‘OK, now you need to focus on the Arabic side because you need to communicate with your community,’” she says. “They also told me about other artists — local artists — I should be listening to, like Moayad and Dafencii.”  

It’s been an inspiring change, Bishi explains. “I have purpose now,” she says. “I want to do it to improve myself, but also to encourage other girls to go out and to sing, to perform, to write, to rap… to build this female music community.”