BATTLE OF WITS | True or False w/ PsychIRL Josh Essex 2024-10-22 | BATTLE OF WITS | True or False w/ PsychIRL
House of the Dragon S2 Episode 4 Review #gameofthronesprequel #houseofthedragonseason2 Josh Essex 2024-07-08 | ...
Ruby Red - Doctor Who Book Review (audiobook read by Millie Gibson) Josh Essex 2024-07-05 | After the end of Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson's first season of Doctor Who, I found myself wanting more adventures with the Fifteenth Doctor and Ruby Sunday. Was this short novel the perfect fix? And where in their timeline does it fit? Let's talk about "Ruby Red" by Georgia Cook.Publisher's Summary:April, 1242: the Doctor and Ruby answer a distress call sent from medieval Russia. The signal's sender? Ranavere, an alien girl forced to take part in a barbaric conflict between the armies of Estonia and Novgorod on the frozen surface of Lake Peipus.Ranavere wants to escape, but her distress call has summoned her warmongering sisters, intent on preserving family tradition whatever the cost. And as human battle begins, the Doctor and Ruby must face a more devastating threat — a monstrous entity with plans of conquest, growing stronger beneath the icy lake...Thank you for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. The Doctor fending off mind controlled knights with a shield is 100% better than him dueling Robin Hood with a spoon, just saying.
House of the Dragon S2 Episode 3 Review #houseofthedragonseason2 #gameofthronesprequel Josh Essex 2024-07-03 | ...
How did Sutekh survive The Big Bang? Josh Essex 2024-07-01 | With the reveal that Sutekh has been clinging to the outside of the TARDIS for the last 49 years of Doctor Who television history, many fans have been wondering if this retcon doesn't hold up with the TARDIS's universe ending destruction in the Matt Smith era season finale episode "The Big Bang". Today, we look back at this episode and ask not only "how did Sutekh survive the explosion", but also "did he cause it?"This video contains spoilers for the Matt Smith Eleventh Doctor and Ncuti Gatwa Fifteenth Doctor eras, as we review and recap the plans of Sutekh and the Silence. Evidence specifically comes from the following episodes: "The Pyramids of Mars", "The Pandorica Opens", "The Big Bang", "A Good Man Goes to War", "Time of the Doctor", "The Legend of Ruby Sunday", and "Empire of Death".From Wikipedia:Following the end of the previous episode, alien time traveller the Doctor (Matt Smith) is trapped in a prison from which escape is impossible, the space-time vessel the TARDIS has blown up with the time-travelling archaeologist River Song (Alex Kingston) inside, and the Doctor's companion Amy Pond (Karen Gillan) has been shot and killed by an Auton replica of her fiancé Rory Williams (Arthur Darvill). As the universe is collapsing, the Doctor uses time travel to solve these problems and ultimately reboot the universe. The episode sees the climax of Amy's character arc and the story arc of the series regarding the cracks in the universe, though Moffat chose to leave a few things unexplained."The Big Bang" S5 Ep13Written by Steven MoffatDirected by Toby HaynesStarring:Matt Smith as the Eleventh DoctorKaren Gillan as Amy PondArthur Darvill as Rory WilliamsAlex Kingston as River SongCaitlin Blackwood as AmeliaSusan Vidler as Aunt SharonFrances Ashman as ChristineBarnaby Edwards as Stone DalekWilliam Pretsell as DaveHalcro Johnston as Mr PondKaren Westwood as TabethaNicholas Briggs as Dalek voice"Empire of Death" S14/1 Ep8Written by Russell T DaviesDirected by Jamie DonoughueStarringNcuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth DoctorMillie Gibson as Ruby SundayGabriel Woolf as SutekhSusan Twist as Susan TriadBonnie Langford as Mel BushJemma Redgrave as Kate StewartYasmin Finney as Rose NobleGenesis Lynea as Harriet ArbringerLenny Rush as Morris GibbonsThank you so much for watching! Do you think that Sutekh caused the total event collapse as the universe by using Susan Triad to infiltrate the Church of the Silence and trick them into destroying the TARDIS? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Silence will fall!Head canon, fan theory, easter eggs, tin foil hat, conspiracy#doctorwho #sutekh #thebigbang
How can a Padawan fight a Sith? Josh Essex 2024-06-28 | In the latest episode of Star Wars: The Acolyte, Jedi Padawan Jecki Lon goes toe-to-toe with a Sith who has killed other Jedi! How is this possible? Is there any precedent for this in the Star Wars films?From Wikipedia:The Acolyte, also known as Star Wars: The Acolyte, is an American science fiction television series created by Leslye Headland for the streaming service Disney+. It is part of the Star Wars franchise, set at the end of the High Republic era before the events of the Skywalker Saga, and follows a Jedi investigation into a series of crimes."Night" Season 1, Episode 5Directed by Alex Garcia LopezWritten by Kor Adana and Cameron SquiresStarring:Dafne Keen as Jecki LonManny Jacinto as Qimir / The StrangerLee Jung-jae as Master SolAmandla Stenberg as Osha / MaeCharlie Barnett as Yord FandarJoonas Suotamo as KelnaccaOther duels featured in this video:The Duel of the Fates - The Phantom Menace - written and directed by George LucasStarring Ewan McGregor (Obi-Wan Kenobi), Liam Neeson (Qui-Gon Jinn), and Ray Park (Darth Maul)Obi-Wan and Anakin vs Count Dooku - Attack of the Clones - written and directed by George LucasStarring Ewan McGregor, Hayden Christensen, and Christopher LeeLuke vs Darth Vader - The Empire Strikes Back - directed by Irvin KershnerStarring Mark Hamill and David ProwseLet me know what you think in the comments below! (Sexism, racism, and blind hatred will be deleted.) Thanks for watching!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Darth Triceps ftw!#theacolyte #Jecki #starwars
“The Empire of Death” - Doctor Who Season Finale episode review #doctorwho #ncutigatwa #sutekh Josh Essex 2024-06-22 | ...
Dragon Wing? (Delicious in House of the Dragon) #houseofthedragon #deliciousindungeon #dungeonmeshi Josh Essex 2024-06-20 | ...
The Pyramids of Mars - Classic Doctor Who episode review and recap Josh Essex 2024-06-18 | SPOILER ALERT FOR "THE LEGEND OF RUBY SUNDAY"With the return of the all-powerful god of destruction Sutekh to the Doctor Whoniverse, I decided to watch his first dastardly plot in the Fourth Doctor's era. This is a review of "The Pyramids of Mars" from the point of view of a modern Doctor Who fan, and a summary of the events that shade the conflicting past between the Doctor and Sutekh.From Wikipedia:The serial is set in England and Egypt and on Mars in 1911. In the serial, the burial chamber of the alien Osiran Sutekh (Gabriel Woolf), inspired by the Egyptian god Set, is unearthed by the archaeology professor Marcus Scarman (Bernard Archard). Alive but immobilised, Sutekh seeks his freedom by using Professor Scarman as his servant to destroy the jewel in a pyramid on Mars which is keeping him prisoner. Influenced by the gothic horror genre and films such as The Mummy, the serial was met with widespread critical acclaim, being praised for its atmosphere and production. It marks the first appearance of Sutekh, who was reintroduced to the series in "The Legend of Ruby Sunday" (2024)."Pyramids of Mars"Directed by Paddy RussellWritten by "Stephen Harris" (Robert Holmes and Lewis Greifer)Starring:Tom Baker as the Fourth DoctorElisabeth Sladen as Sarah Jane SmithGabriel Woolfe as SutekhBernard Archard as Marcus ScarmanMichael Sheard as Laurence ScarmanPeter Copley as Dr. WarlockMichael Bilton as CollinsGeorge Tovey as Ernie ClementsPeter Mayock as NaminVic Tablian as AhmedNick Burnell, Melvyn Bedford, and Kevin Selway as the Robot MummiesThank you for watching! Let me know what you think of this episode (and whether you're originally a fan of Classic Who or NuWho) in the comments below!Have a Great Week!-Josh#doctorwho #sutekh #classicdoctorwho
“A Son for a Son” - S2Ep1 House of the Dragon episode review #houseofthedragon #gameofthrones Josh Essex 2024-06-17 | ...
“The Legend of Ruby Sunday” - Doctor Who episode review #doctorwho #ncutigatwa #milliegibson Josh Essex 2024-06-15 | ...
“Rogue” - Doctor Who episode review (my favorite this season) #doctorwho #ncutigatwa #bridgerton Josh Essex 2024-06-09 | ...
“Dot and Bubble” - Doctor Who episode review #doctorwho #ncutigatwa #dotandbubble Josh Essex 2024-06-01 | ...
The Story of Vernestra Rwoh (before The Acolyte) Josh Essex 2024-05-31 | Star Wars introduced us to the young Jedi prodigy, Vernestra Rwoh, in the High Republic books and comics. And soon she will take her place on the screen in The Acolyte series. If you're interested in catching up on her entire character arc before the series premiere, this is the video for you!From Wookiepedia:Vernestra Rwoh was a Mirialan female Jedi Master who lived during the High Republic Era. She was also occasionally nicknamed "Vern," although she disliked it. The former Padawan of Jedi Master Stellan Gios, she was promoted to the rank of Jedi Knight at the age of fifteen, making her the youngest Jedi to hold that rank in a long time. Rwoh wielded a unique purple lightsaber that could elasticize its blade to become a lightwhip, having added the modification based on a Force vision. Eventually, she climbed the ranks of the Order to become a respected Master and leader among the Jedi.Time Stamps:0:00 Intro0:55 "First Mission" (comic)2:08 The Great Hyperspace Disaster (Avar Kriss)3:56 A Test of Courage**6:14 Light of the Jedi*6:40 The High Republic comics (2021) issues 2-57:23 Race to Crashpoint Tower11:14 Rising Storm*13:00 Out of the Shadows**23:55 Mission to Disaster*29:47 "The Lonely Traveler is Home" (short story)30:07 The Fallen Star31:35 The High Republic comics (2021) issue 1531:55 Fall of Starlight Beacon32:38 "The Force Provides" (short story)**34:43 Defy the Storm**43:26 Predictions of the future46:14 Outro**Essential character growth or snapshot*RecommendedThanks for watching this review and analysis of Asajj Ventress' character journey throughout Star Wars canon. Let me know what you think of her character and stories in the comments below (or let me know your thoughts on the Bad Batch)!Have a Great Week!-Josh#TheAcolyte #VernestraRwoh #StarWars
Top 10 canon Phantom Menace tie in stories (books, comics, TV episodes) Josh Essex 2024-05-19 | To celebrate its 25th Anniversary, let's take a look at some of the best pieces of canon stories that relate to the characters, events, and themes of Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace.In these stories, find the origins of Darth Maul (from childhood to the first time he killed a Jedi), explore the complex master and apprenctice relationship between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Qui-Gon Jinn, learn about the political career of Queen Padmé Amidala, discover how Obi-Wan and young Anakin Skywalker addressed the elephant in the room that is Qui-Gon's death, and much more.Time Stamps:0:00 Intro0:24 Honorable Mentions1:39 Age of Republic - Darth Maul comic2:08 "Life Day" comic arc2:43 "An Unwilling Apprentice" short story3:27 25th Anniversary Special comic3:51 Age of Republic - Obi-Wan comic4:14 The Living Force novel5:22 "The Sith Lord" Tales of the Jedi episode6:00 Darth Maul comic miniseries6:35 Queen's Peril novel7:38 Master & Apprentice novel9:40 OutroThank you for watching this ranking! I put a lot of work into reviewing a lot of different canon media to make this list (like the Padawan novel, which didn't make the list), but if I missed something, please let me know in the comics below!May the Force be with you!-JoshP.S. Jar Jar's scene in the anniversary comic was really good, as I am coming back around to the character as a whole it really helped me see more than just his comedic side.
“The Devil’s Chord” - Doctor Who Episode Review #doctorwho #ncutigatwa #thebeatles Josh Essex 2024-05-14 | ...
“Space Babies” Doctor Who episode review #doctorwho #spacebabies #ncutigatwa Josh Essex 2024-05-11 | ...
The Story of Barriss Offee (Clone Wars, books, comics) Josh Essex 2024-04-29 | With former Jedi padawan Barriss Offee due to continue her story in Tales of the Empire, I wanted to take a look back on the character's full history, from her origins in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, to her turn to the dark side in Clone Wars season 5 finale arc...From Wookiepedia:Barriss Offee was a Force-sensitive female Mirialan who was a Jedi Knight that fell to the dark side of the Force during the period of the Clone Wars. Trained as a Padawan under Jedi Master Luminara Unduli, Offee wielded a blue lightsaber that she used when participating in the First Battle of Geonosis. She preferred studying ancient Jedi texts to fighting. During her time as a Jedi Padawan, Offee struck up a friendship with Ahsoka Tano, the Padawan learner of Anakin Skywalker. As the Clone Wars continued, Offee grew disillusioned with the Jedi's role in the wars, believing they had strayed from the ideals that the Jedi Order was supposed to represent, particularly wary of the Jedi Council.Time Stamps:0:00 Intro0:22 Star Wars Adventures issue 20 (comic)1:17 Attack of the Clones (movie)1:55 Queen's Hope (novel)4:27 "A Jedi's Duty" (short story)**6:54 "Weapon's Factory" (episode)**8:57 "Brain Invaders" (episode)*10:40 Forces of Destiny: Ahsoka and Padmé (comic)11:19 cameos (episodes and trading card)12:22 Legends: Medstar duology (noncanon books)14:04 "Wrong Jedi" arc (episodes)**17:54 Conclusion**Essential character growth or snapshot*RecommendedThanks for watching this review and analysis of Barriss Offee's character journey throughout Star Wars canon. Let me know what you think of her character and stories in the comments below!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Anakin is not great at de-escalating a violent situation...#barrissoffee #talesoftheempire #maythe4thbewithyou Luminara Unduli, Inquisitors, Grand Inquisitor, Ahsoka, bombing of the Jedi Temple, "Sabotage", "The Jedi Who Knew Too Much", "To Catch a Jedi", duel with Anakin Skywalker, Medstar I: Battle Surgeons, Medstar II: Jedi Healer
ChatGPT’s Passover Recommendation: The Last Temptation of Homer Josh Essex 2024-04-23 | This episode is what ChatGPT recommended I should watch for Passover. Was it right? Is this a hidden Simpsons Passover special waiting to be rediscovered?From IMDb:Homer's marriage is in trouble when he develops an attraction to a new co-worker; Bart undergoes medical treatments that make him look like a nerd."The Last Temptation of Homer"Written by Frank MulaDirected by Carlos BaezaStarring:Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Zutroy, Barney, Grandpa Simpson, othersJulie Kavner as Marge Simpson, Patty, and SelmaNancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson and Nelson MuntzYeardley Smith as Lisa SimpsonMichelle Pfeiffer as Mindy SimmonsHank Azaria as Carl Carlson, Moe, and othersHarry Shearer as Principal Skinner, Mr. Burns, Smithers, Dr. Hibbert, Ned Flanders, and othersPhil Hartman as Lionel HutzWerner Klemperer as Colonel Klink from Hogan's HeroesMarcia Wallace as Edna KrabappelPamela Hayden as Milhouse Van Houten and othersMaggie Roswell as Dermatologist, Fish, and othersRussi Taylor as Martin Prince and othersThank you so much for watching!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Happy Passover!
Rugrats Passover Special - Review Josh Essex 2024-04-22 | The Rugrats holiday specials are Jewish family classics, and this is where they all started. But after nearly 30 years, does it still hold up? Today we discuss the iconic Passover episode from the 1990's Rugrats series!From IMDb:Boris, Tommy's grandfather tells the kids, the story of Passover, when they become locked in the attic during a Sedar."Passover"Written by Peter Gaffney, Paul Germain, Jonathan Greenberg, and Rachel LipmanDirected by Jeff McGrath, Jim Duffy, and Steve SockiStarring:Michael Bell as Boris, Chas Finster, and Drew PicklesChristine Cavanaugh as Chuckie FinsterMelanie Chartoff as Didi Pickles and MinkaCheryl Chase as Angelica PicklesElizabeth Daily as Tommy PicklesDavid Doyle as Grandpa Lou PicklesDana Hill as Taskmaster BabyTress MacNeille as Charlotte PicklesJack Riley as Stu PicklesKath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVilleThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Chag Pesach Sameach!
Rugrats Purim Special - Review Josh Essex 2024-03-24 | The Rugrats Chanukah and Passover specials from the 90s are Jewish classics. Does this new Purim special rise to those same heights?From IMDb:While Uncle Jake teaches the grown-ups how to bake hamantaschen cookies, Boris tells the story of Purim, and the babies envision themselves and other kids on the playground as the story's characters in ancient Persia.Tommy, Chuckie, and the Rugrats crew return for all-new adventures."Purim"Written by Rachel LipmanStoryboard Director: Rachel TamuraStoryboard Artists: Daniela Rodriguez de la Pena and Lisa WuVoice Directed by Charlie AdlerBased on the Series Created by Arlene Klasky, Gabor Csupo, and Paul GermainStarring:Elizabeth Daily as Tommy Pickles (AKA Mordechai)Cree Summer as Susie Carmichael (AKA Queen Ester)Cheryl Chase as Angelica Pickles (AKA Haman)Christine Cavanaugh as Chuckie FinsterKath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVilleJosh Brener as Uncle JakeAlicyn Packard as JoshHenry Winkler as Grandpa BorisAshley Rae Spillers as Didi PicklesTommy Dewey as Stu PicklesTony Hale as Chas FinsterSwoosie Kurtz as MinkaCristina Milizia as NinaNatalie Morales as Betty DeVilleAnna Chlumsky as Charlotte PicklesTimothy Simons as Drew PicklesNicole Byer as Lucy CarmichaelOmar Miller as Randy CarmichaelMichael McKean as Lou PicklesThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Purim Sameach!
The Story of Asajj Ventress (Clone Wars, books, comics) Josh Essex 2024-03-18 | With former Sith assassin Asajj Ventress due to appear in Bad Batch season 3, I wanted to take a look back on the character's full history, from her origins in Genndy Tartakovsky's 2003 series Clone Wars, to her apparent death in the novel Dark Disciple...From Wookiepedia:Asajj Ventress was a Force-sensitive Dathomirian female who was, at various points throughout her life, a Nightsister, a Jedi Padawan, an assassin of the Sith, a commander in the Confederacy of Independent Systems military and a bounty hunter.Time Stamps:0:00 Intro0:39 Clone Wars (2003 mini-series)*2:17 Brotherhood (novel)*3:41 Hyperspace Stories issue 5 (comic)4:26 "The Hidden Enemy" (episode)5:02 The Clone Wars (movie)5:46 "Ambush" (episode)6:11 "Cloak of Darkness" (episode)**6:38 "Worthless" (short story)*7:45 "Arc Troopers" (episode)*8:15 Duel with Aayla Secura (Star Wars Adventures issue 12, comic)*9:13 Halcyon Legacy issue 310:11 "Nightsisters" arc (episodes)**11:40 "Masacre" (episode)**12:30 "Bounty" (episode)**13:15 "Brothers" and "Revenge" (episodes)14:03 Little Sarlaac Horror (comic)14:26 Age of Republic Special (comic)15:03 "Wrong Jedi" arc (episodes)*15:41 Dark Disciple (novel)**17:23 Dark Disciple spoilers17:45 Retcons?! (not at all)19:18 Final Thoughts**Essential character growth or snapshot*RecommendedThanks for watching this review and analysis of Asajj Ventress' character journey throughout Star Wars canon. Let me know what you think of her character and stories in the comments below (or let me know your thoughts on the Bad Batch)!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. I know I left out Dooku Jedi Lost. I kept debating whether to include it or not, but 95% of the story is about Dooku as a character and it's only really the last few minutes that ties her part of the story together, so I ultimately left it out. I loved Dooku Jedi Lost, but it's not necessary for Ventress' story, and this video was already so long.#asajjventress #badbatch #darkdisciple
Bruno the one-eyed rescue cat’s epic battle against a basket #cat #rescuecat Josh Essex 2024-03-12 | ...
Does Bye Bye Butterfree hold up? Josh Essex 2024-02-12 | This tearjerker of an episode from the first season of the Pokémon anime sees Ash have to learn to say goodbye to one of his friends. Many remember this episode fondly. Today, I review it to see if it's worth the hype.From IMDb:It's the Butterfree Mating Season. Ash decides to let his Butterfree have a chance at love. Saying good bye may be harder than it seems for both of them."Bye Bye Butterfree"Directed by Masamitsu HidakaScreenplay by Yukiyoshi Ohashi and Ken SakamotoBased on a Story by Satoshi TajiriStarring:Veronica Taylor as Ash KetchumRachael Lillis as Misty / Jessie / Butterfree TrainerEric Stuart as Brock / JamesMatthew Sussman as MeowthIkue Ôtani as PikachuRikako Aikawa as ButterfreeChinami Nishimura as Pink ButterfreeRodger Parsons as NarratorThank you for watching!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. I didn't cry! I am a grown man! 😭#pokemon #valentinesday #byebyebutterfree
Why Marvels Echo is actually pretty good Josh Essex 2024-01-16 | With great action, complicated family relationships, and two fantastic acting powerhouses in Alaqua Cox and Vincent D'Onofrio, why is the MCU's Echo series being slept on? With a lead who is deaf Native American woman amputee, I think we can all figure out the answer. I'm here to review the latest Disney Plus superhero series is actually pretty good. It's not perfect, but definitely worth your time if you're a fan of street level vigilante stories.From Wikipedia:Five months after the events of Hawkeye (2021), Maya Lopez is being pursued by Wilson Fisk's organization, leading her to return to her hometown in Oklahoma, where she must come to terms with her past, reconnect with her Native American roots, and embrace her family and community."Echo" (miniseries)Directed by Sydney Freeland (episodes 1,2,4,5) and Catriona McKenzieStarring:Alaqua Cox as Maya Lopez / EchoVincent D'Onofrio as Wilson Fisk / KingpinChaske Spencer as Henry Black Crow LopezTantoo Cardinal as ChulaGraham Greene as SkullyDevery Jacobs as BonnieCody Lightning as BiscuitsMorningstar Angeline as LowakDannie McCallum as TukloKatarina Ziervogel as TaloaDarnell Besaw as Young MayaIsabella Madrigal as Young ChulaWren Zhawenim Gotts as Young BonnieZahn McClarnon as William LopezCharlie Cox as Matt Murdock / DaredevilThank you for watching!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Don't embarrass me in front of Vanessa or Maya!#echo #review #mcu
Is Barbie worth the hype? Josh Essex 2023-07-31 | Taking the summer box office by storm, the live-action Barbie movie has been making waves online and throughout the media. I saw the film in theaters and review if it's worth all the buzz.Little Women Review - youtu.be/tneq-6bo954Barbie in the Nutcracker Review - youtu.be/_867mOj2UbYThis review was made during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes to gain fair wages and fight against studio greed. I fully support the writers and actors fighting for a better future of the entertainment industry. A boycott of struck studios has not been called for at this time. Any and all praise in this review (and in any review of a movie, TV show, game, or any other form of media) belongs solely to the artists that created the media. The writers, actors, directors, crew, editors, and other workers are the ones who make art worth consuming. They give it the human touch that makes it endearing and helps make sense of the lives we all live.From Wikipedia:Barbie is a 2023 American fantasy comedy film directed by Greta Gerwig, who also wrote it with Noah Baumbach. Based on the Barbie fashion dolls by Mattel, it is the first live-action Barbie film after numerous computer-animated direct-to-video and streaming television films. The film follows Barbie (Margot Robbie) and Ken (Ryan Gosling) on a journey of self-discovery following an existential crisis. It features an ensemble cast, including America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell."Barbie"Written by Greta Gerwig and Noah BaumbachDirected by Greta GerwigStarring:Margot Robbie as Stereotypical BarbieRyan Gosling as Beach KenAmerica Ferrera as GloriaKate McKinnon as Weird BarbieIssa Rae as President BarbieSimu Liu as Tourist KenRhea Perlman as Ruth HandlerWill Ferrell as CEO of MattelAriana Greenblatt as SashaMichael Cera as AllanAlexandra Shipp as Writer BarbieEmma Mackey as Physicist BarbieHari Nef as Dr. BarbieSharon Rooney as Lawyer BarbieAna Cruz Kayne as Judge BarbieRitu Arya as Journalist BarbieDua Lipa as the Mermaid BarbiesNicola Coughlan as Diplomat BarbieMette Narrative as Barbie Video GirlMarisa Abela as Teen Talk BarbieLucy Boynton as Proust BarbieKingsley Ben-Adir as Basketball KenScott Evans as Stereotypical KenNcuti Gatwa as Artist KenJohn Cena as Kenmaid, a merman KenRob Brydon as Sugar Daddy KenTom Stourton as Earring Magic KenHelen Mirren as NarratorConnor Swindells as Aaron Dinkins, a Mattel employeeJamie Demetriou as the CFO of MattelEmerald Fennell as MidgeErica Ford as SkipperHannah Khalique-Brown as "Growing Up" SkipperAnn Roth as the woman on the benchRyan Piers Williams as Gloria's husbandThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Biggest disappointment: not seeing Bibble.
We watched Barbie Fairytopia (2005) Josh Essex 2023-07-20 | The first completely original Barbie film introduces us to possibly the greatest contribution to Barbie lore: Bibble.My girlfriend grew up watching the animated Barbie movies. I just want to see Bibble antics and build anticipation for Greta Gerwig's upcoming film. Here are our reactions.From Wikipedia:Barbie: Fairytopia is a 2005 computer-animated fantasy film directed by Walter P. Martishius and William Lau and written by Elise Allen and Diane Duane. The film premiered on Nickelodeon on March 6, 2005, and was released on VHS and DVD two days later. It was distributed internationally through Universal Pictures Video and Entertainment Rights.The 5th installment in the Barbie film series and the first to have an original storyline not based on existing material, the film follows Elina, a wingless flower fairy who goes on a journey to save the enchanted land of Fairytopia from the evil fairy Laverna. The film is followed by two sequels; Barbie: Mermaidia and Barbie Fairytopia: Magic of the Rainbow and two spin-offs; Barbie: Mariposa and Barbie: Mariposa & the Fairy Princess."Barbie Fairytopia"Directed by Walter P. Martishius and Will LauWritten by Elise Allen and Diane DuaneStarring:Kelly Sheridan as Barbie / Elina / Mermaid 2Lee Tockar as BibbleKathleen Barr as LavernaTabitha St. Germain as Dandelion / Topaz / Mermaid 1Venus Terzo as AzuraChiara Zanni as DahliaMark Oliver as HueAlessandro Juliani as Prince KaiMichael Dobson as Quill / AmethystScott McNeil as RubyBrian Drummond as LarkspurBritt McKillip as Pixie 1Nancy Sorel as EnchantressThank you so much for watching! Let us know what you think of this foray into a magical Barbie land in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-Josh & JessieP.S. Bibble walked so Ryan Gosling as Ken could run!
Every Star Trek Infection Episode Ranked Josh Essex 2023-07-17 | With the recent release of Strange New Worlds' "Among the Lotus Eaters", I wanted to go back and review every time Star Trek crew is infected or afflicted with a virus, illness, disease, or psychic strangeness of some kind. Here is that tier ranking. (Timestamps in description)Top 10 Star Trek Halloween Episodes - youtu.be/g6nQyLAb8eEEvery Star Trek Courtroom Episode Ranked - youtu.be/e5HnaxL1LTETime Stamps:0:00 Intro0:40 Lorelei Signal1:15 Mudd's Passion1:53 Among the Lotus Eaters2:50 Elysian Kingdom3:54 Ghosts of Ilyria4:59 Much Ado About Boimler5:35 Second Contact6:09 Observer Effect7:21 Scientific Method8:04 Babel9:02 Genesis9:57 Phantasms10:31 Night Terrors11:22 Sarek12:22 Naked Now13:19 Requiem for Methuselah14:09 This Side of Paradise14:34 Macrocosm15:30 Fascination16:25 Naked Time18:19 ConclusionThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think of my ranking in the comments below. What other Star Trek episode rankings should I do in the future?Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. There is NOTHING more iconic than fencing Sulu.
Every Star Trek Courtroom Episode Ranked Josh Essex 2023-07-05 | With the recent release of Strange New Worlds' "Ad Astra Per Aspera", I wanted to go back and review every Star Trek court room drama from the worst to the best. Here is that list. (Timestamps in description)Is Star Trek V (The Final Frontier) worth the hate? - youtu.be/Ze5HsXIYhvITop 10 Star Trek Halloween Episodes - youtu.be/g6nQyLAb8eETime Stamps:0:00 Intro0:36 Author, Author1:37 Matter of Perspective3:06 Dax4:14 Court Martial7:27 Tribunal9:25 Judgement10:37 The Menagerie12:24 Death Wish13:18 Rules of Engagement16:11 Drumhead17:35 Final Two22:06 ConclusionThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think of my ranking in the comments below. What other Star Trek episode rankings should I do in the future?Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. I DEMAND to face my accuser, this finger print dust, in trial!
The Batman 89 comic run (Review) Josh Essex 2023-06-07 | Taking place a year after Batman Returns, this comic series, written by the writer of Michael Keaton's first Batman movie , continues the story of Tim Burton's Gotham. See Billy Dee Williams' Harvey Dent turn to Two-Face. See the return of Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman. The rise of Marlon Wayans' Robin. But is it a worthy continuation of this gothic, noir world?From Wikipedia:Batman '89 is a superhero comic book limited series published by DC Comics that serves as an alternative continuation of Tim Burton's first two Batman films, Batman (1989) and Batman Returns (1992), which starred Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne / Batman, while ignoring the events of Batman Forever (1995) and Batman & Robin (1997). The series is written by the first two films' screenwriter, Sam Hamm, and illustrated by Joe Quinones. It was launched in August 2021 and ran for six issues."Batman '89"Written by Sam HammPenciller - Joe QuinonesLetterer - Clayton CowlesColorist - Leonardo ItoEditors - Andrew Marino and Andy KhouriIn this video, we also discuss the appearance of the Burtonverse Batman in Batman #135 (Legacy #900), and that story's resurrection of Jack Nicholson's Joker / Jack Napier.Batman #135Written by Chip ZdarskyArtists - Mike Hawthorne, Jorge Jimenez, and Adriano Di BendettoThank you for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Wild how many multiverse stories this version of Batman has become involved in.
Is Batman Returns any good? Josh Essex 2023-06-06 | The sequel to Tim Burton's highly successful "Batman" (1989) was met with, and is still remembered with, a lot of confusion and mixed feelings. I know it's not entirely what I expected after rewatching Michael Keaton's first foray into Gotham. With Keaton set to return as the Dark Knight in the upcoming Flash movie, I went back to watch this classic film. Is this the strangest Batman film ever made?From Wikipedia:Batman Returns is a 1992 American superhero film directed by Tim Burton and written by Daniel Waters. Based on the DC Comics character Batman, it is the sequel to Batman (1989) and the second installment in the 1989–1997 Batman series. In the film, the superhero vigilante Batman comes into conflict with wealthy industrialist Max Shreck and deformed crime boss Oswald Cobbleplot / The Penguin, who seek power, influence, and respect regardless of the cost to Gotham City. Their plans are complicated by Selina Kyle, Shreck's formerly-meek secretary, who seeks vengeance against Shreck as Catwoman. The cast includes Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Michael Gough, Pat Hingle, and Michael Murphy."Batman Returns"Directed by Tim BurtonScreenplay by Daniel WatersStory by Daniel Waters and Sam HammStarring:Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne / BatmanDanny DeVito as Oswald Cobblepot / PenguinMichelle Pfeiffer as Selina Kyle / CatwomanChristopher Walken as Max ShreckMichael Gough as Alfred PennyworthPat Hingle as Commissioner James GordonMichael Murphy as the MayorAndrew Bryniarski as Charles "Chip" ShreckCristi Conaway as the Ice PrincessThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think of this superhero classic in the comments belows.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Meow. (boom!)
Is Man of Steel worth the hate? Josh Essex 2023-06-02 | Like much of the DCEU, Man of Steel received a mixed reception following its 2013 release. With Michael Shannon returning as General Zod in the upcoming Flash film, I wanted to go back and review this movie? Is the first Zack Snyder DC movie worth the hate?From Wikipedia:Man of Steel is a 2013 superhero film based on the DC Comics character Superman. Directed by Zack Snyder, the story was developed by David S. Goyer and producer Christopher Nolan, with Goyer writing the screenplay. The film serves as a reboot of the Superman film series, depicting the character's origin story, and it is the first installment in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). Man of Steel stars Henry Cavill in the title role along with Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Kevin Costner, Diane Lane, Laurence Fishburne, and Russell Crowe. In the film, Clark Kent learns that he is a superpowered alien from the planet Krypton. He assumes the role of mankind's protector as Superman, making the choice to face General Zod and prevent him from destroying humanity."Man of Steel"Directed by Zack SnyderScreenplay by David S. GoyerStory by David S. Goyer and Christopher NolanStarring:Henry Cavill as Clark Kent / SupermanAmy Adams as Lois LaneMichael Shannon as General ZodDiane Lane as MARTHA KentRussell Crowe as Jor-ElAntje Traue as Faora-UlKevin Costner as Jonathan KentLaurence Fishburne as Perry WhiteHarry Lennix as General SwanwickRichard Schiff as Dr. Emil HamiltonChristopher Meloni as Colonel Nathan HardyAyelet Zurer as Lara Lor-VanThank you for watching! Let me know what you think of this film in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. I WILL FIND HIM!!!!!
Is Into the Spider-Verse worth the hype? Josh Essex 2023-05-31 | Since its premiere in 2018, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse has been considered among the best Spider-Man films, as well as the best superhero and comic book movies, of all time. With the sequel, Across the Spider-Verse, coming out soon, I go back to see review just how good this movie actually is.From Wikipedia:Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a 2018 American computer-animated superhero film featuring the Marvel Comics character Miles Morales / Spider-Man, produced by Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation in association with Marvel Entertainment. Distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing, it is the first CGI/stop-motion animated film in the Spider-Man franchise. Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman (in Persichetti and Rothman's feature directorial debuts) from a screenplay by Phil Lord and Rothman from a story by Lord, it stars Shameik Moore as Morales, alongside the voices of Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld, Mahershala Ali, Brian Tyree Henry, Lily Tomlin, Luna Lauren Vélez, John Mulaney, Kimiko Glenn, Nicolas Cage, and Liev Schreiber. The film's story follows Miles Morales as he becomes the new Spider-Man and joins other Spider-People from various parallel universes to save his universe from Kingpin."Spider-Man: Into the Spider Verse"Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney RothmanScreenplay by Phil Lord and Rodney RothmanStory by Phil LordStarring:Shameik Moore as Mile MoralesJake Johnson as Peter B ParkerHailee Steinfeld as Gwen Stacy / Spider-GwenMahershala Ali as Uncle Aaron / ProwlerBrian Tyree Henry as Officer Jefferson DavisLily Tomlin as Aunt MayLuna Lauren Velez as Rio MoralesZoë Kravitz as Mary Jane WatsonJohn Mulaney as Peter Porker / Spider-HamKimiko Glenn as Peni ParkerNicolas Cage as Spider-Man NoirKathryn Hahn as Doc OckLiev Schreiber as Wilson Fisk / KingpinChris Pine as Peter ParkerNatalie Morales as Miss CallerosOscar Isaac as Spider-Man 2099Stan Lee as StanJorma Taccone as Norman Osborn / Green GoblinJoaquín Cosio as ScorpionMarvin Jones III as TombstoneLake Bell as Vanessa FiskThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think of this animated masterpiece in the comments below!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. *puts hand on your shoulder,* *smolders* Hey...
Is Batman (1989) worth the hype? Josh Essex 2023-05-30 | With Michael Keaton set to reprise his role as Batman in the upcoming Flash movie, I went back to review the start of the "Dark Knight" version of the character in pop culture. Tim Burton's Batman is undeniably a classic, but does it hold up over 30 years later?From Wikipedia:Batman is a 1989 superhero film based on the DC Comics character of the same name, created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger. Directed by Tim Burton, it is the first installment of Warner Bros.' initial Batman film series. The film was produced by Jon Peters and Peter Guber and stars Jack Nicholson, Michael Keaton, Kim Basinger, Robert Wuhl, Pat Hingle, Billy Dee Williams, Michael Gough, and Jack Palance. The film takes place early in the title character's war on crime and depicts his conflict with his archenemy The Joker."Batman"Directed by Tim BurtonScreenplay by Sam Hamm and Warren SkaarenStory by Sam HammStarring:Jack Nicholson as Jack Napier / The JokerMichael Keaton as Bruce Wayne / BatmanKim Basinger as Vicki ValeRobert Wuhl as Alexander KnoxPat Hingle as Commissioner GordonBilly Dee Williams as Harvey DentMichael Gogh as Alfred PennyworthJack Palance as Carl GrissomJerry Hall as Alicia HuntTracey Walter as Bob the GoonLee Wallace as Mayor BorgWilliam Hootkins as Lt. Max EckhardtDavid Baxt as Thomas WayneSharon Holm as Martha WayneCharles Roskilly as Young Bruce WayneThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think of this iteration of Gotham City in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. He's Batman.
Return of the Jedi 40th Anniversary Review Josh Essex 2023-05-22 | The original trilogy of Star Wars films concluded in 1983 with the theatrical release of Episode 6: Return of the Jedi. I have watched this movie many, many times before, and today I went back to give my thoughts on the original finale to the Skywalker Saga.From Wookiepedia:Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi, marketed as simply Return of the Jedi, is a 1983 film directed by Richard Marquand and written by Lawrence Kasdan and George Lucas from a story by Lucas. It is the third and final part of the Star Wars original trilogy.Luke Skywalker and friends travel to Tatooine to rescue their companion Han Solo from the vile Jabba the Hutt. The Empire prepares to crush the Rebellion with a more powerful Death Star, while the Rebel fleet mounts a massive attack on the space station. Luke confronts his father, Darth Vader, in a final climactic duel before the evil Emperor.The film debuted on May 25, 1983, and was released on VHS and LaserDisc in this form multiple times during the 80s and 90s. The film was re-released with changes in 1997, and this version was later released on VHS and LaserDisc as well. The special edition arrived on DVD in 2004, but with further updates and changes to the 1997 versions. The original, unaltered version of the film was released as part of a DVD set in September 2006. The film was re-released in the Blu-ray format in September of 2011. Then in 2023, Return of the Jedi saw a limited theatrical rerelease to commemorate its 40th anniversary."Return of the Jedi"Directed by Richard MarquandScreenplay by Lawrence Kasdan and George LucasStory by George LucasStarring:Mark Hamill as Jedi Knight Luke SkywalkerCarrie Fisher as Princess Leia OrganaHarrison Ford as General Han SoloBilly Dee Williams as General Lando CalrissianAnthony Williams as C-3POPeter Mayhew as ChewbaccaKenny Baker as R2-D2 and PaplooIan McDiarmid as The Emperor (Darth Sidious/Sheev Palpatine)Frank Oz as Jedi Master YodaDavid Prowse as Darth Vader physicalityJames Earl Jones as Darth Vader voiceSebastian Shaw as Darth Vader unmaskedHayden Christensen as Darth Vader Force ghost / Anakin SkywalkerAlec Guiness as Obi-Wan KenobiJeremy Bulloch as Boba FettWarwick Davis as WicketDenis Lawson as Wedge AntillesCaroline Blakiston as Mon MothmaKenneth Colley as Imperial Admiral PiettThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think of this entry to the Star Wars saga in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. No... Nooooooo!
Sampling my Grandpa’s “Unique” Appetizer (raw jalapeño + 🍤 + onion + ranch + 🧀) Josh Essex 2022-12-29 | ...
What Jews should watch with Christmas Dinner (Chinese food) 2022 Josh Essex 2022-12-25 | It is a Jewish-American tradition to eat Chinese food on Christmas day. So for this Christmas Eve (and seventh night of Hanukkah), I wanted to suggest two movies to go with dinner.In Turning Red, a thirteen-year-old girl is torn between staying her mother's dutiful daughter and the changes of adolescence. And as if the challenges were not enough, whenever she gets overly excited she transforms into a giant red panda.Everything Everywhere All at Once is one of the best movies of the year. When an interdimensional rupture unravels reality, an unlikely hero must channel her newfound powers to fight bizarre and bewildering dangers from the multiverse as the fate of the world hangs in the balance.“Turing Red”Directed by Domee ShiScreenplay by Julia Cho and Domee ShiStory by Domee She, Julia Cho, and Sarah StreicherStarring:Rosalie Chiang as Meilin “Mei” LeeSandra Oh as Ming LeeAva Morse as Miriam MendelsohnMaitreyi Ramakrishnan as Priya MangalHyein Park as Abby ParkOrion Lee as Jin LeeWai Ching Ho as WuTristan Allerick Chen as Tyler Nguyen-Baker“Everything Everywhere All at Once”Written and Directed by the Daniels (Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert)Starring:Michelle Yeoh as Evelyn Quan WongStephanie Hsu as Joy WangKe Huy Quan as Waymond WangJames Hong as Gong GongJamie Lee Curtis as Deirdre BeaubeirdreThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Merry Christmas and Happy Chanukah!
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery - Review Josh Essex 2022-12-23 | The sequel to the highly acclaimed murder mystery "Knives Out", written and directed by Rian Johnson, is out on Netflix today. This spoiler-free review talks about "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery", and how it compares to the original.From IMDb:Famed Southern detective Benoit Blanc travels to Greece for his latest case. A Rian Johnson Whodunit."Glass Onion"Written and Directed by Rian JohnsonStarring:Daniel Craig as Detective Benoit BlancEdward Norton as Billionaire Miles BronJanelle Monáe as Andi BrandKathryn Hahn as Claire DebellaLeslie Odom Jr. as Lionel ToussaintKate Hudson as Birdie JayDave Bautista as Duke CodyJessica Henwick as PegMadelyn Cline as WhiskeyNoah Segan as DerolThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think (without spoilers) in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is in this movie as the hourly clock dong sound and I just find that so funny.
Is The Last Jedi worth the hate? Josh Essex 2022-12-22 | Perhaps the single most controversial entry in the Star Wars franchise, Episode 8: The Last Jedi premiered 5 years ago, and has been the source of online arguments ever since. But is it worth the hate?From Wookiepedia:The Last Jedi begins immediately after the events of Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens, set thirty years after the conclusion of the original Star Wars trilogy. It continues the story of Rey and her discovery of the exiled Jedi Master Luke Skywalker, along with the story of the war between General Leia Organa's Resistance and the First Order."The Last Jedi"Written and Directed by Rian JohnsonStarring:Mark Hamill as Luke SkywalkerOscar Isaac as Poe DameronDaisy Ridley as ReyJohn Boyega as FinnKelly Marie Tran as Rose TicoCarrie Fisher as Leia OrganaAdam Driver as Kylo Ren / Ben SoloAndy Serkis as SnokeDomhnall Gleeson as General HuxLaura Dern as Vice Admiral HoldoAnthony Daniels as C-3POBenicio Del Toro as DJFrank Oz as YodaGwendoline Christie as Captain PhasmaLupita Nyong'o as Maz KanataBillie Lourd as Lieutenant ConnixJoonas Suotamo as ChewbaccaAmanda Lawrence as Commander D'AcyJimmy Vee as R2-D2Justin Theroux as Master CodebreakerTim Rose as Admiral AckbarTom Kane as Admiral Ackbar (voice)Adrian Edmondson as Captain PeaveyMark Lewis Jones as Captain CanadyHermione Corfield as A-Wing Pilot TallieVeronica Ngo as Paige TicoMike Quinn as Nien NunbThank you for watching this long review! Respectfully let me know your thoughts in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Porgs are the best!
Rugrats Chanukah - Review Josh Essex 2022-12-21 | Perhaps the most popular and beloved Hanukkah special, the Rugrats "Chanukah" is over 26 years old and still a banger.From IMDb:During Chanukah, the babies try to help Boris deal with a childhood rival he is appearing with in a synagogue pageant. Angelica tries to watch a Christmas special.The cartoon misadventures of four babies and their snotty older cousin as they face the things in life they don't understand."Chanukah"Written by J. David Stem and David N. WeissStory by Cynthia Friedlob, Bob Mittenthal, and John SemperDirected by Raymie MuzquizStarring:Elizabeth Daily as Tommy Pickles (AKA Judah Maccababy)Christine Cavanaugh as Chuckie FinsterKath Soucie as Phil and Lil DeVilleCheryl Chase as Angelica PicklesMichael Bell as Boris Kropotkin and Chas FinsterMelanie Chartoff as Dede Pickles and Minka KropotkinJack Riley as Stu PicklesDavid Doyle as Grandpa Lou PicklesFyvush Finkle as Shlomo (AKA The Meanie of Hanukah)Tress MacNielle as EsterRon Leibman as Rabbi / Old ManAlan Rachins as Lowell / Greek Bully / Donut ManAlan Rosenberg as Mr. Dreidel / TV AnnouncerBruce Young Berman as Parade CroonerThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Chanukkah Sameach!
The First Jewish Disney Princess celebrates Hanukkah (Elena of Avalor Festival of Lights Review) Josh Essex 2022-12-21 | In this holiday episode of the animated Elena of Avalor series, Princess Rebeca and her family are stranded away from home and must celebrate Chanukah with new friends.A good episode not only for Hanukah, but for setting proper expectations for all holidays this season, "Festival of Lights" has singing, celebrating, and a fun Jewish family.From IMDb:Princess Elena has saved her magical kingdom, Avalor, from an evil sorceress and must learn to rule as its crown princess. Elena's adventures will lead her to understand that her new role requires thoughtfulness, resilience and compassion."Festival of Lights"Written by Rachel RudermanDirected by Craig GerberStarring:Aimee Carraro as Princess ElenaJamie-Lynn Sigler as Princess RebecaJenna Ortega as Princess IsabelTovah Feldshuh as Grandma MiriamJulian Zane Chowdhury as AriJulia Vera as LuisaCarlos Alazraqui as SkylarEmiliano Díez as FranciscoJillian Rose Reed as NaomiThank you for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Chanukah Sameach!
Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins - Live Streaming Play Review Josh Essex 2022-12-19 | Chicago's Strawdog Theatre Company performs this Chanukah classic for their fifth year, and it is now free to see live in the city or stream online.From Broadway World:Strawdog Theatre Company, Chicago's newest free theater, is pleased to launch its 35th season with its holiday family favorite Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, returning for its fifth year. Based on the award-winning book by Eric Kimmel, Hershel is adapted by ensemble member Michael Dailey, with music and lyrics by Jacob Combs, direction by Hannah Todd and music direction by Ricky Harris. Hershel will play December 10 - 31, 2022 at The Edge Off-Broadway Theater, 1133 W. Catalpa Ave. in Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood. Tickets for all performances are FREE with reservations opening Friday, November 4, 2022 at www.strawdog.org.The press openings are Sunday, December 11 at 1 pm & 4 pm.The production features Jordan Zelvin as Hershel with Amy Gorelow, Nicholas Pardo, Edward Patterson, Melanie VItaterna and Kat Zheng.In this adaptation of the Caldecott Honor-winning book, a traveling troupe of actors comes to town to find no one celebrating Hanukkah. They must put on a show to save the holiday! Will they bring back the spirit of Hanukkah to the town? Will Hershel of Ostropol outsmart the goblins who haunt the old synagogue?The production team includes Caitlin McLeod (Scenic Designer, Co-Puppet Designer), Foiles (Costume Designer), Conchita Avitia (Lighting Designer), Daniel Etti-Williams (Sound Designer), Rocio Cabrera (Props Designer, Co-Puppet Designer), Amanda Crockett (Choreographer), Karissa Murrell Myers (Casting Director), Stephanie Diaz (Puppetry Consultant), Catherine Miller (Cultural Consultant), Lily Anna Berman (Assistant Director), Donna Gary (Production Manager), Jordan Large (Technical Director), Paul Cook (Lead Electrician), and Anna Vu (Assistant Stage Manager).
The Blues Clues Hanukkah Special - Review Josh Essex 2022-12-18 | "Festival of Lights" is a Hanukkah special from the revival series, Blue's Clues and You. The original Blue's Clues show was one of my favorites as a child, so I wanted to check out this new holiday episode.From IMDb:Each game of Blue's Clues involves problem-solving, viewer interaction, and of course, a stop for "mailtime!" In this reboot, the animated ensemble cast is back with a new host: Josh, who's just learning how to play Blue's Clues.A special, surprise guest comes to Periwinkle's house to celebrate Chanukah; Josh and Blue play Blue's Clues to figure out who the surprise guest is, and celebrate the holiday by spinning dreidels, frying latkes, and singing."A Blue's Clues Festival of Lights"Written by Alyson PiekarskyDirected by M.R. Horhager and Steve WrightStarring:Joshua Dela Cruz as JoshIzzi Nagel as AlyTraci Paige Johnson as BlueLuxton Handspiker as PeriwinkleMarkeda McKay as Dede DreidelDenise Oliver as Lady LatkeBrad Adamson as Mr. SaltShazdeh Kapadia as Side Table DrawerJacob Soley as Slippery SoapDoug Murray as MailboxRex Hagon as Grandpa MauveThank you so much for watching! What do you and any kids you have think of this? Let me know in the comments below!Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Hannukah Sameach!
Was Hawkeye any good? Josh Essex 2022-12-17 | This MCU Christmas series follows everyone's favorite OG Avenger: Hawkeye. I didn't have high expectations for this show, but did I underestimate it?From Wikipedia:One year after the events of Avengers: Endgame (2019), Clint Barton must partner with Kate Bishop to confront enemies from his past as the Ronin in order to get back to his family in time for Christmas."Hawkeye"Created by Jonathan IglaDirected by Rhys Thomas (Eps 1, 2, 6) and Bert & Bertie (Eps 3, 4, 5)Starring:Jeremy Renner as Clint Barton / HawkeyeHailee Steinfeld as Kate BishopAlaqua Cox as Maya Lopez / EchoFlorence Pugh as Yelena Belova / Black WidowVincent D'Onofrio as Wilson Fisk / KingpinVera Farmiga as Eleanor BishopTony Dalton as Jack DuquesneFra Fee as Kazimierz "Kazi" KazimierczakLinda Cardellini as Laura BartonJolt as Lucky the Pizza DogThank you so much for watching! Let me know what you think in the comments below.Have a Great Week!-JoshP.S. Don't mess with the tracksuit mafia, bro.
