Few controversies have generated more debate this year than Michael, by Antoine Fuqua, but it seems that hasn’t stopped the public from talking. With 611 million dollars at the box office, the film has managed to dethrone Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ as the fourth highest-grossing biopic in film history. Although Gibson’s film was undoubtedly more profitable. With just a 30 million budget, the 610 million it made at the box office is more impressive in context than the 200 million budget that Michael had. The king of pop, also of […]
Few controversies have generated more debate this year than Michael, by Antoine Fuqua, but it seems that hasn’t stopped the public from talking. With 611 million dollars at the box office, the film has managed to dethrone Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ as the fourth highest-grossing biopic in film history. Although Gibson’s film was undoubtedly more profitable. With a budget of just 30 million, the 610 million it made at the box office is even more impressive in context than the 200 million budget that Michael had.
The King of Pop, also of the Box Office
It is far from achieving higher rankings beyond that. The third place is held by the Chinese film Hi, Mom, by Jia Ling, which grossed just over 840 million, and to reach the second and first places, it would have to surpass Bohemian Rhapsody and Oppenheimer, which earned 910 and 975 million dollars at the box office respectively.
None of this takes away from Michael, who is one of the great phenomena of the year. Well positioned as the fourth highest-grossing film of the year—only behind Pegasus 3, Project Hail Mary, and Super Mario Galaxy: the Movie—it has been a spectacular commercial success. Although not critically. Receiving numerous attacks for the partial and very unaware representation of the artist’s image and legal issues, creating a mythologized image of him.
In any case, it doesn’t seem to matter much to the public and fans. And given Michael’s success, it is to be expected that future biopics of artists will continue to seek to hide their dirty laundry to ensure they offer exactly what, it seems, audiences want today: a triumphant representation of the idols they adore.
Contact sports have fascinating stories waiting to be told. It’s no surprise that literature and cinema have many stories where boxing is the protagonist, and it shouldn’t surprise us that, in the near future, there will be great stories about MMA. Because the moment a contact sport becomes popular, stories that resonate with the public always emerge. Or that’s what Benny Safdie and Dwayne Johnson, better known as The Rock, must have thought. Because while their new movie may not have made the impact they expected, it has just arrived […]
Contact sports have fascinating stories waiting to be told. It is not surprising that literature and cinema have many stories where boxing is the protagonist and we should not be surprised that, in the near future, there will be great stories about MMA. Because the moment a contact sport becomes popular, stories that resonate with the audience always emerge.
Or that’s what Benny Safdie and Dwayne Johnson, better known as The Rock, must have thought. Because although their new movie may not have made the splash they expected, it just arrived this week on streaming and you shouldn’t miss it, because it is, without a doubt, one of the big surprises of 2025.
A pioneer of MMA
The movie is a biopic of the fighter Mark Kerr, who was a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, world champion of the Vale Tudo tournament, and competitor in PRIDE FC. Although his greatest achievements were in the mid-90s, the film begins in 1999, fighting in Japan, and in a more than questionable state due to drug use. From this point on, the film will focus on that. How a fighter who was at the top of the world tries to rehabilitate from his drug addiction caused by the intensity of the sport in a new setting, with much tougher competitors, while trying to do something even harder: maintain his relationship with his girlfriend.
Putting a great emphasis on the drama of the story, we never see Kerr at the moment of the greatest victories of his career, but we do see some of the most defining elements of it. Although we never see him fight in the UFC in the movie, his time in PRIDE would ultimately shape what MMA is today, making him a legend and a milestone in the sport. All of this is thanks to two things: the excellent work of its actors and its director.
Perhaps the most surprising thing about the movie is Johnson’s outstanding performance as Kerr. He is not only believable as an MMA fighter, but he also manages to convey emotion and vulnerability, knowing how to appear fragile when necessary, in a way that is both interesting and inspiring. This is aided by having Emily Blunt opposite him as Dawn Staples, Kerr’s real-life partner, who carries the dramatic weight of many scenes and emphasizes the more personal side of the film.
That is perhaps the most surprising thing. How incredibly human it is and feels for a movie about MMA built around a figure like The Rock. But that is also, in part, thanks to the work of its director, Benny Safdie.
A likely future cult movie
There have been many controversies and conflicts following the separation of the Safdie brothers, and in 2025 both released films separately. Josh, Marty Supreme; Benny, The Smashing Machine. And both demonstrate very different approaches. Because while there is a certain family resemblance between the two, if anything The Smashing Machine shows us, and in a way also Marty Supreme, is that the emotional factor of the Safdie films has always relied more on Benny, much more and better exploited in his film than in his brother’s.
That does not mean it has been a great success. On the contrary. Being a box office failure, making just over 20 million dollars while costing 50, and with a lukewarm critical response at best, even if it has not done poorly in international awards, with Benny Safdie nominated for the Golden Lion and winning the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival, the film has gone unnoticed by both critics and audiences.
Available on HBO Max since April 9, this is the perfect movie to reclaim. One of those movies that, with the right mindset, is not only enjoyable but also allows you to appreciate the genius behind it. Vibrant, intelligent, and full of heart, it has everything to become a cult film. Especially due to the poor treatment it has received from critics and the public.
Universal Pictures has won an intense bidding war to produce a film based on the iconic rock band Bon Jovi. The production house has secured the rights to tell the story of the band that gained worldwide popularity with hits like Livin’ on a Prayer, You Give Love a Bad Name, and It’s My Life. This project is set to appeal to both music fans and movie lovers by offering a look at the life and career of one of the most influential rock groups. It is now or […]
Universal Pictures has won an intense bidding war to produce a film based on the iconic rock band Bon Jovi. The production house has secured the rights to tell the story of the band that gained worldwide popularity with hits like Livin’ on a Prayer, You Give Love a Bad Name, and It’s My Life. This project is set to appeal to both music fans and movie lovers by offering a glimpse into the life and career of one of the most influential rock groups.
It is now or never
The script for the movie will be written by Cody Brotter, a novice writer who has caught the industry’s attention with this ambitious project. So far, the production has not appointed a director nor has it advanced in the casting process, indicating that development is still in an early stage. However, Bon Jovi’s successful track record suggests that interest in this project will continue to grow as more announcements are made.
The film promises to explore not only the music and milestones of the group but also the challenges and triumphs they have faced throughout their career. While there are still no specific details about the direction the narrative will take, Bon Jovi’s strong legacy provides a rich context for a film adaptation.
For now, Bon Jovi fans and movie enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting more news about the cast and creative team that will join this exciting project. With so much potential, the film could become a significant tribute to the enduring legacy of one of the most beloved rock bands. It is speculated that the film’s release could mark a new milestone in pop culture, reflecting both the band’s musical impact and its relevance in the current time.
There are many pop divas. There will always be. It is a style of music that, by its very nature, will never die and due to the economic structure of our society, it is always in demand. But other genres are more complex. There are no longer soul divas, classic and with great reach. And the last one had all the problems with drugs, personal relationships, and controversies that one would expect from one of them. Her name was Amy Winehouse. Born on September 14, 1983, into a London Jewish family, she grew up in a home filled with jazz and was a member of the National Youth […]
There are many pop divas. There will always be. It is a style of music that, by its very nature, will never die and due to the economic structure of our society, it is always in interest to maintain. But other genres are more complex. There are no longer soul divas, classic and with great reach. And the last one had all the problems of drugs, personal relationships, and controversies that one would expect from one of them. Her name was Amy Winehouse.
Born on September 14, 1983, into a London Jewish family, she grew up in a home filled with jazz and was a member of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. Cat 22, she released her first album, Frank, which received a good reception, but not exceptional. Her blend of funk, dub, and soul with jazz influences caught attention, as did her tone that could easily swing between innocence and unrestrained boldness, but she didn’t manage to hit it big. Not yet.
A diva like no other has been since
Three years later, on October 27, 2006, she released her second and final album, Back to Black. And this is where everything changed. By repopularizing soul music worldwide, but particularly in England, it was a critical and audience success. Reaching number one on the best-selling albums list in nineteen countries, and just missing out in another eight, and being acclaimed by critics almost unanimously, with the notable and very poorly aged review from Pitchfork, it had a brutal cultural impact. Including opening the door for major record labels for other future divas, such as Adele, Florence and the Machine, Little Boots, or La Roux.
Unfortunately, Amy Winehouse had a difficult life filled with problems. Her personal relationships went nowhere, she had drug problems, and her mental health was very precarious, having suffered from depression, eating disorders, and self-mutilation. Something that would lead her to die on July 23, 2011, at the age of 27, due to complications related to alcohol consumption.
All this and much more is narrated in Back to Black, the controversial biopic by Sam-Taylor Johnson released in 2024. Heavily criticized by fans, who felt it did not fairly portray the figure of the late artist, it was also viewed with considerable disdain by critics for a very specific aspect. It focused very little on the music and a lot on her personal life, wanting to turn her into a tragic figure.
Focusing on her relationship with drugs and her struggles to stay sober, Back to Black presents Amy Winehouse, with a very convincing Marisa Abela portraying the artist, as a person with serious stability issues. A seductive narrative that creates a very specific image of Amy Winehouse which, while having some truth, is not entirely well balanced as it does not equally address her talent as an artist and how she paved the way not only for a revival of soul but also for a new wave of female artists away from classic pop.
A new film project is moving towards the production of a theatrical biopic about the British philosopher Bertrand Russell, known for his influential work and his commitment to humanitarian ideals and freedom of thought. This will be the first biographical film in history to portray the life and work of Russell, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950. Bertrand Russell is a very important figure in the Anglo-Saxon world. Russell’s career is remarkable, spanning almost a century of history since his birth in 1872. His work endures as a clear expression of his […]
A new film project is moving towards the production of a theatrical biopic about the British philosopher Bertrand Russell, known for his influential work and his commitment to humanitarian ideals and freedom of thought. This will be the first biographical film in history to portray the life and work of Russell, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950.
Bertrand Russell is a very important figure in the Anglo-Saxon world
Russell’s trajectory is remarkable, spanning almost a century of history since his birth in 1872. His work endures as a clear expression of his desire to promote rationalism and peace in a world often tumultuous. Throughout his life, he published numerous essays and books that have been fundamental in the development of contemporary philosophy, in addition to actively participating in social and political movements.
Russell not only left a literary legacy, but also cemented his fame as one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century. His ability to articulate complex thoughts and his critiques of war, dogmatism, and injustice have resonated with later generations, making him an icon of critical thinking.
For the moment, the specific details about the film’s production, such as the director, the cast, or the release date, remain a secret. However, this project is expected to attract a wide audience, interested in both philosophy and the history of social activism. This artistic performance could represent a significant step towards understanding the life and ideals of a philosopher whose teachings continue to inspire many today.
A movie is being developed that will tell the story of the life and early career of the iconic Irish musician Sinéad O’Connor. The production, which has been confirmed by various sources, is a tribute to the artist, who passed away in 2023 leaving an indelible legacy in music and popular culture. Will the moment from Saturday Night Live be included? The project is being handled by the Irish production company ie: entertainment, known for its work on the acclaimed documentary about O’Connor, which received praise from both critics and music fans. This new film promises to offer a deep look […]
A movie is being developed that will tell the story of the life and early career of the iconic Irish musician Sinéad O’Connor. The production, which has been confirmed by various sources, is a tribute to the artist, who passed away in 2023 leaving an indelible legacy in music and popular culture.
Will the moment of Saturday Night Live come?
The project is led by the Irish production company ie: entertainment, known for its work on the acclaimed documentary about O’Connor, which received praise from both critics and music fans. This new film promises to provide an in-depth look at the beginnings of O’Connor’s career, including her personal and professional life, as well as the challenges she faced in an often tumultuous music world.
Sinéad O’Connor, famous for her powerful voice and commitment to various social causes, stood out in the 90s. Through her moving lyrics and bold style, she became an influential and sometimes controversial figure in the music industry. The film will seek to trace her early steps in music, from her education to her rise to fame with hits like Nothing Compares 2 U.
Although specific details about the cast and production team have not yet been revealed, anticipation around the project continues to grow. Music fans and film critics are eager to see a movie that will tell the story of the life and early career of the iconic Irish musician Sinéad O’Connor. The production, which has been confirmed by various sources, is a tribute to the artist, who passed away in 2023 leaving an indelible legacy in music and popular culture.
Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer of The Beatles, is actively involved in the development of his biopic, ensuring that the film accurately reflects his story and experience. According to a recent article in the New York Times, Starr met with renowned director Sam Mendes, director of American Beauty and Road to Perdition, among many others, to review the script of the film. During a process that extended over two days, the musician went through the text line by line, offering his detailed observations to ensure that the […]
Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer of The Beatles, is actively involved in the development of his biopic, ensuring that the film accurately reflects his story and experience. According to a recent article in the New York Times, Starr met with renowned director Sam Mendes, director of American Beauty and Road to Perdition, among many others, to review the script of the film. During a process that spanned two days, the musician went through the text line by line, offering his detailed observations to ensure that the details of his life and career were appropriately addressed.
Mendes: Assistant to Starr or director of the biopic?
Starr, known for his meticulous approach and desire to preserve the authenticity of his story, provided extensive notes to Mendes. This not only shows his commitment to the project but also his desire for the film to be a true portrait of The Beatles’ history and their fundamental role in the band. The drummer thus joins a growing number of artists who actively participate in the production of their biopics, something that could result in a fairer and more complete representation of their lives.
Starr’s involvement in the production is not only an indication of his dedication, but it also raises questions about how the key moments that have defined his career will be portrayed on screen. As the production progresses, fans and critics are eager to see how his personal vision influences the film’s narrative, which could provide a new perspective on one of the most influential bands in the history of modern music.
While no specific details about the plot or cast of the biopic have been released, interest in the film continues to grow, and it can be anticipated that the portrayal of Starr will be a crucial component for the success of the project.
