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The Oscars 95 Recap: The Year of The Big Picture

The Oscars 95 Recap: The Year of The Big Picture

Let’s recap the night in this blog post. The night began with the Oscars 95 host Jimmy Kimmel parachuting from the ceiling. And the crowd gave their first applause inside the Dolby Theatre. 

Who do you think came up with that idea? It was an enjoyable moment for the live crowd and the at home audience. After taking off his parachute, Kimmel started doing what he does best…telling jokes. The comedian was full of them.

Avatar: The Way of Water director James Cameron and Top Gun: Maverick lead actor Tom Cruise were absent at The 95th Oscars and Kimmel joked about it. Does the comedian have a point? He said Cameron did not attend because he wasn’t nominated for Directing. Also the comedian mentioned the director’s marriages and box office receipts.

Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt gave Guillermo Del Toro the first Oscar for his Pinocchio. His acceptance speech was full of passion as he thanked his wife and lastly his parents. At the last Oscars, Ariana DeBose won for her role in West Side Story and Troy Kostur won for his role in Coda. Next, DeBose and Kostur would hand Ke Huy Quan and Jamie Lee Curtis awards for their supporting roles. When was the last time the same movie (Everything Everywhere All At Once) won both best supporting roles? 

Everything Everywhere All At Once took home a total of seven Oscars. It’s safe to say the film owned the night. I’ve watched a lot of Academy Awards in my day and haven’t seen a night quite like this one in a long time. You could feel the energy at Dolby Theatre.

Did you enjoy the presentation? The slate of presenters were some of the biggest celebrities. There were tons of stars. If you love entertainment, you were impressed last night. Leading up to the event, the celebs arrived on the red carpet which was painted a champagne color this year.

Tom Cruise may not have made an appearance at the Academy Awards this time, but he did attend the Oscars nominees luncheon. He shared a great moment with Austin Butler at that event. I posed the question: do you want Austin Butler to win Best Actor for his performance in Elvis? Fans overwhelmingly answered yes, they wanted him to win. Later, I’ll discuss who won.

Have you heard about the Vanity Fair Oscars After Party? From the beginning of awards season to the end of the afterparty Everything Everywhere All At Once made their presence known. Michele Yeoh made history by becoming the first Asian actress to win a Best Actress Academy Award.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQcQrFkBSuQ

It’s been 21 years since a woman of color won an award in this category. She took the moment and gave a terrific speech about how one never truly peaks as long as one keeps going. Everything Everywhere All At Once went on to win Best Original Screenplay and Best Directing as well. Check out complete winners list here.

Once again, you could feel the energy. In addition, music filled the air and everybody was in harmony. Lady Gaga touched the crowd with her Hold My Hand from the Top Gun: Maverick soundtrack. Then, Rihanna uplifted everybody with Lift Me Up from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Lastly, Lenny Kravitz sang Calling All Angels from his 2004 Baptism album to honor the lost stars.

There wasn’t too much commotion or many surprises except Brendan Fraser winning Best Actor for The Whale. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvbPC_3XY48

The final applause of the night inside Dolby Theatre went to Best Picture winner Everything Everywhere All At Once. It was not only a night to remember but an award season to remember. The Golden Globes, the Grammys, the SAG Awards all told similar stories. In the end, it’s all about the big picture. Follow me on Twitter @IamGuruJay. Thank you!

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Is Jonathan Majors a Top 10 Actor Now?

Jonathan Majors Photo By: Collider Video

Is Jonathan Majors a Top 10 Actor Now?

Jonathan Majors doesn’t mind playing the villain. In fact, in his new Marvel Studios movie Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania he portrays a one of a kind antagonist. Do you remember Thanos? Kang the Conqueror played by Jonathan Majors is Thanos 2.0. Some of his superpowers include erasing timelines and rewriting history. If you’re a comic geek or buff you will love the Hollywood star in this flick. Have you seen any of the trailers or promotional materials?

Moreover, if you’re into movies and like the best actors, then Majors is your man. At 33 years-old, he’s built a remarkable filmography. What is more, the actor remains focused on his career. Are you a fan of this movie star? What is your favorite Jonathan Majors film so far? Notice, I say so far because his best may be yet to come. Another actor known for playing a villain is Samuel L. Jackson. His best work came after the age of 40. Part of Majors’s success is his keen ability to pick the best movies to play in. Working with the best talent and budget makes all the difference.

In addition, Majors plays a lead role in Creed III, directed by Michael B. Jordan. He’s not only seizing the days; he’s seizing the years. 2022-2023 is the movie star’s time to shine. They say he’s one of Hollywood’s most in demand talents. This is all by design. When you research him, you’ll discover he earned a BFA from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an MFA from Yale University. 

I highly recommend Devotion, The Harder They Fall, and The Last Black Man in San Francisco. I’ve seen all three films and thoroughly enjoyed them all. Based on a true story, Devotion tells a touching story about the first Black Naval aviator officer Jesse Brown in the Korean War. The onscreen camaraderie between Jonathan Majors and Glenn Powell is inspiring. Moreover, both The Harder They Fall and The Last Black Man in San Francisco make a statement in different ways. The Harder They Fall blazed a trail and The Last Black Man in San Francisco laid a foundation.

Revisit This Post in Three Years

So, do I believe Jonathan Majors is a top 10 actor now? This is an intriguing question because there are many areas where this actor excels. Jonathan Majors can carry a film. He delivers high quality. I can’t overstate his star power enough. His box office results show all we need to know. Plus, the studios, directors, and actors all love working with him. But he’s only 33 years old. Leonardo DiCaprio’s 48 by comparison. Morgan Freeman’s a young 85. Age is just a number. But Majors is a new movie star who deserves recognition.

Although it might be a stretch to call him a top 10 actor now, revisit this post in three years and see if he’s on top then. Can we agree, at least, he’s one of the best actors? I think Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania shows why he is a huge movie star. And I think his fans will love him in Creed III. Everybody is waiting for that hypothetical fight to happen on March 3, 2023.

In the entertainment world, it’s in a celebrity’s nature to make mistakes. Here’s Majors and he is not making a lot of mistakes. He played his cards right. And from what I can tell it’s a good hand. That’s why the star is shining bright. If he’s not a Top 10 actor yet, he will be. Wait and see.

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Golden Globe Awards 2023 Recap: From the Red Carpet to the Live Show with Peace and Love!

By: Guru Jay

This year the red carpet was rolled out for the Hollywood stars at the Golden Globes for the 80th time. #LARain was trending on Twitter which meant the weather was stormy. But the dark clouds dissipated, and everyone had a good time. As the countdown began, we saw star after star shine while they were being interviewed by Laverne Cox and her sidekick Loni Love. It was an arrival like no other. It was what we’ve been waiting for. Of course, we had a little bit of controversy. Comedian Jarrod Carmichael hosted the live show and the first thing out his mouth was “I’m only the host because I’m Black.” I couldn’t chuckle at everything he mentioned. But, in truth I watched the Golden Globes to celebrate and acknowledge the film and television actors who made 2022 worth its weight in gold. @IamGuruJay I liked, tweeted, and retweeted until I felt I spread enough of my share of peace and love. To start the show, Jennifer Hudson presented the Best Supporting Actor and Actress Golden Globe Award. As you may know by now, Ke Huy Quan won the first award of the night for his portrayal in All at Once Movie. Plus, you may know Angela Bassett won for her role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. 

And so, the night started off with two well-deserved wins. Perhaps Jennifer Coolidge stole the show with her win for White Lotus. Also, Austin Butler, who hosted Saturday Night Live, won for his performance in Elvis. But you didn’t come to my blog for a list of winners. You can get that anywhere. You came here for my spin on things. I’ll give you what you want. The stars owned the night. Despite all that’s going on in the world, this was a time for peace and love. Despite the controversy Hollywood united. We need a new party called Unity. It is interesting what a day makes. From the red carpet to the live show, the 2023 Golden Globes was special. I’m thankful for another day on God’s green earth. Although I didn’t win a Golden Globe, you’re my gold. Peace and Love!

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Jurassic World Dominion Countdown

Jurassic World Dominion gives new meaning to the expression living under a rock. What’s your comfort level with stones? When does the stone age start and end? It seems like we will be living in the Jurassic period in June. So let’s begin where the story ends as we start our countdown to another movie.

Making a fire may not require rubbing stones together, but it still works. No matter what period, you need elements of fire to dominate the planet. In 2022, the release of Jurassic World Dominion is right on time.

Coming to theaters June 10, Jurassic World Dominion stars Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard. Shining brighter than ever, the Hollywood stars will align and create a lunar event. The onscreen chemistry of Pratt and Howard will catapult the box office walls. I expect this movie to rule the box office. And shattered records are also predicted. Will they run out of tickets to print? Who knows?

Jurassic World Dominion is the third movie in the Jurassic World franchise. Before World, we had Jurassic Park. It’s more than American. These flicks are a part of global popular culture. Whether you see it on the big or small screen, the film has fascinating characters who will live on in our imaginations.

Park Vs. World

Do you like Park or World better? Should we even compare them? Are they collectively the same franchise? Whichever way you see them, you must see them. In 2022, World will have superior
special effects, but what about the screenwriting and acting?
Because Jurassic Park and Jurassic World function as joint ventures, it’s challenging to answer the above questions. Jurassic World Dominion should be huge. Don’t be surprised if this one is the biggest in terms of profit and success. Here is the countdown.

I am Guru Jay launching off into orbit in 5-4-3-2-1!

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Priyanka Chopra: From Bollywood to Hollywood

BY: GURU JAY

Priyanka Chopra: From Bollywood to Hollywood

Photo By: Wikimedia Commons

What’s your favorite TV show? ABC offers excellent programming choices. Do you like sitcoms such as Modern Family or dramas such as Scandal? How about Quantico? Whatever you have a taste for is on ABC. Lately, I’ve been consuming episodes of Quantico on demand.

I can’t get enough of Priyanka Chopra. The Quantico star is someone to write home about. Isn’t she something special? This former Miss World may be the hottest babe on TV.

I hope they give Priyanka a pay raise because she’s too good to lose. Moreover, the actor is the main reason we watch Quantico, right? Let’s face it, Chopra presents a hot body of work like Sofia Vergara. TV viewers are treated to one of a kind good looks.

Still, if you go beyond her charming good looks, you’ll discover she’s extremely talented too. She’s already made a name for herself in Bollywood. Right now, she’s taking her turn on Hollywood Boulevard.

Are you looking forward to watching her performance in Baywatch or what? Picture Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron both vying for her attention on the silver screen. They already publicly admitted they’re infatuation with her. Who do you think is more her type? That’s right Priyanka Chopra can have any man she likes.

Who else can’t get enough of Priyanka Chopra? The Indian beauty is easy on the eyes. Additionally, she’s devoted to developing her gifts.

Clearly, Chopra knows she’s one of the best in showbiz. Plus, Priyanka can handle the entertainment world’s pressure. Her Bollywood experience counts for something.

Chopra can convince anyone of anything. Whatever she’s selling, people are buying. They eat her up like chocolate chip cookies. They need more of her sugar. The Bollywood to Hollywood actress is maximizing her potential and fulfilling her dreams. What is more, she’s making the man very rich.

I am Guru Jay launching into orbit in 5-4-3-2-1!
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X-Men Apocalypse Movie Review SPOILER ALERT

BY: GURU JAY
Photo By: Wikimedia Commons
 
Apocalypse awakens from a deep sleep ready to usher into the world a new age. However, Professor X, Mystique, and their X-Men will fight for the good of humanity and themselves. Apocalypse handpicks 4 mutants to take over and rule the world.

I give the X-Men: Apocalypse movie 4 stars. That’s 1 star for every horseman (as advertised). The movie lives up to the buildup. Plus the new characters make a grand entrance. It’s funny seeing how Cyclops can’t control his powers and inadvertently destroys Professor X’s grandfather tree. This film receives high marks on the plot and screenwriting.
SPOILER ALERT
My favorite part had to be Hugh Jackman’s exit as Wolverine. How do you replace someone that great? Maybe, you don’t.
Moreover, the new Storm did a good job replacing Halle Berry. Give her time and she’ll become a big star. Hollywood should have more actresses like this. Give a nod to Phoenix too. She delivered more than expected as well.
Apocalypse was the very first mutant in the comic book. The scenes in this movie are like a comic book come alive. Comic book collectors can sit down with amateurs and enjoy this movie together.
There are a lot of conflicts within conflicts. Will Maury tell Magneto “You are the father,” about Quicksilver? Can Professor X get Apocalypse out of his head?
X-Men Apocalypse fathoms the idea of the world ending. Apocalypse attempts to rule the planet by absorbing every power. Hence, he disarms all nations of their nuclear weapons. Then, with the unwilling help of Professor X, he’s able to control every person.
While under mind control his words become orders obeyed by all. The only one who can really disobey is Professor X, because his power supersedes even Apocalypse’s own, he just doesn’t know it yet.
Overall, I love X-Men:Apocalypse. I might go see it a second and third time. It’s deserving of a B+ grade. They always set the bar high, do they?
I am Guru Jay launching into orbit in 5-4-3-2-1!
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Why Ethan Hawke Is a Fave

BY: GURU JAY
Movies provide a means of escape. Moreover, Ethan Hawke is an escape artist. Like illusionist David Blaine, the movie star hasn’t lost the magic touch.
They say there’s no business like show business. The entertainment industry isn’t disappearing any time soon. There will always be a need for premium entertainers.
Ethan Hawke is one of my favorite actors. You see he delivers at the perfect time. Plus the actor knows how to adapt, react, and ‘proact.’
I like how low-key Ethan Hawke seems. His characters are the same way. I believe that’s why he’s noteworthy. Hawke looks shy but acts outgoing. His eyes are fixed on the big picture.
Gattaca
I could write a whole story on Gattaca alone. His chemistry with Uma Thurman was diabolical. Plus Ethan Hawke went above his pay grade for this film. He stays dedicated.
In a world of perfection, Hawke’s character (Vincent Freeman) was more than perfect. Gattaca proposes many important questions about genetic manipulations. Should society tinker with DNA? How far is too far?
Despite being born normal (invalid), Freeman exceeds limitations and challenges the system. He outperforms “perfect” people because his soul won’t give up. Many say Hawke should have won an Academy Award. I agree.

Photos By: Wikimedia Commons

Training Day
Also, Training Day is another great Ethan Hawke movie starring Denzel Washington. This movie poses several ethical dilemmas too. How much power should police have? When does black become gray? When is wrong right?
Without question, Ethan Hawke transformed Training Day. He was the ideal supporting actor. Who could forget his epic confrontation with Alonzo played by Denzel Washington? Here’s a movie with fantastic and memorable scenes.
In summary, Ethan Hawke is a fave because of his star presence and supernatural talent. Although he isn’t arrogant, he isn’t a pushover. You see he’s cool. 
I am Guru Jay launching into orbit in 5-4-3-2-1!