Movies

Typically, the initial sequences in horror films serve multiple purposes for directors. They offer a brief shock to viewers, setting the tone for what’s to come before diving into the story details. These sequences often function as a catalyst for the plot, pushing the narrative forward, or resurfacing later in the movie. Regardless of their role, these opening scenes can be some of the most memorable and impactful in cinema history.

As a passionate Star Wars fan, I can’t help but feel excited about the untapped storytelling potential in the character development of Maul, particularly during the 16 years that were left unexplored between “The Clone Wars” and “Star Wars: Rebels”. With the upcoming series, “Shadow Lord”, it presents a golden opportunity to bring to life a long-anticipated confrontation that fans have only dreamed of – Maul versus Darth Vader.

Maul and Vader are two legendary Sith Lords within the Star Wars universe, with Maul previously serving as one of the most feared apprentices under Count Dooku, before his apparent demise in “Episode I – The Phantom Menace”. However, the revelation that he survived until just a couple years prior to the original trilogy’s events opens up the intriguing possibility of a duel between the first and last of Palpatine’s Sith apprentices.

Yet, the period was not devoid of its imperfections and controversies. This time frame, which brought forth many of Disney’s greatest successes, also bore some issues that persist even today. From backstage disputes to questionable portrayals, aspects of the Renaissance Era still cast a shadow over Disney.

As a movie critic, I’m excited to share some upcoming projects that I’ll be a part of. One of these, set for release in the future, is based on the Spanish film “Sentimental” by Cesc Gay, and has been adapted for U.S. audiences by Rashida Jones and Will McCormack. As the production gears up for this yet-to-be-titled movie, I’m also looking forward to my role in Gregg Araki’s 2025 film “I Want Your Sex.” In the meantime, you might have spotted me in a director role on Seth Rogen’s 2025 TV series, “The Studio,” which premiered in March. However, this new project seems particularly promising and could potentially surpass my 2022 film.

As a passionate fan, I was thrilled to hear that on the John Campea Show, the talented costume designer, Carter, who’s famous for her work in the Black Panther film series, had been tapped by Marvel to design the costumes for the upcoming Blade 4, announced back in 2019. Carter confirmed rumors that this Blade remake would be set in the 1920s, staying true to its comic book origins, as half-man, half-vampire Eric Brooks was born during London’s Great Depression in 1929. “I was preparing Blade for Marvel,” Carter shared, “and it was a 1920s Blade story.” Unfortunately, when the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike hit us hard, I found myself in a state of uncertainty, joining several others who had to step away from the project.

In the finale of “Onyx Storm,” Andarna’s return was one of its most puzzling aspects, given that Violet discovers Xaden’s absence and the turmoil lingering in Aretia following the Battle of Draithus. After Andarna’s mysterious exit to the Irids, I assumed she would stay away for the remainder of the book due to her deep affection for Violet and Tairn. However, her swift return seemed unusual. One possibility is that she wasn’t as distant as we believed, creating a promising narrative thread while contradicting another theory related to the “Fourth Wing.