WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (2023)


Directed By: Thea Sharrock 

Written By: Jonny Sweet 

Cinematography: Ben Davis 

Editor: Melanie Ann Oliver 

Cast: Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley, Anjana Vasan, Timothy Spall, Gemma Jones, Hugh Skinner, Alisha Weir, Malachi Kirby, Lolly Adefope, Eileen Atkins, Joanna Scanlan

When people in Littlehampton–including conservative local, Edith–begin receiving letters full of hilarious profanities, the rowdy, Irish migrant, Rose, is charged with the crime. Suspecting that something is amiss, the town’s women investigate.


This is the type of film that Sunday screenings were made for quirky comedies that are usually period pieces that are historical in nature. Though showcase modernization in its earliest stages.

unfortunately, this film seems to have gone straight to streaming with no theatrical release, which is a shame as it feels like there is no theatrical marketplace for films such as these, even though these are the ones that audiences more or less don’t know that they are searching for something simple, pleasing fun and artistically worthwhile 

Whereas this film definitely has two stars, Jesse Buckley, and Olivia Colman both noted award-winning actors, playing the lead roles and pretty much against each other, it becomes a comedy of errors in an ensemble effort, whereby the end your shock that this is actually based on a true story and real people.

everyone in the cast excels not that you would ever doubt any of them. Jesse Buckley and Olivia Coleman are both having fun playing somewhat familiar roles. The wildfire, free thinker, and the repressed rule follower 

The film is a darkly comedic tale that is laid-back and plays at first like a mystery and then like a Colombo episode as you wait to find out how the guilty will get caught and what will become of them while seeing the falsely accused having to suffer and they have to go through.

though through the comedy they found does shine a light on issues. Women had to face this at the time. Misogyny sexism, repression jealousy of one another. How some can live free with no repercussions and others feel trapped with no release.

The film is very diverse as it has people of color enrolled that you wouldn’t expect in most period pieces and there isn’t much made about their culture or casting involved. It’s just more natural that they are in society and hold positions of power. and did not be scandalized or the whole film be just about that

The film is a fun romp. That mostly goes for comedy but reveals the drama and conflicts involved. Most of all it’s funny and eventually kind of a buddy comedy. Though offers plenty of comfort for the audience. 

A film filled with personality that goes by but keeps you engaged and having fun with it as you wait to see where it’s going to go.

This is another great memorable performance from Jesse Buckley. who never quite gets the recognition or that star-making role that catches on and shows the world and audiences just how great she is

The film allows, two great acclaimed actresses to share the screen it’s truly an injustice, this film, was silently released onto streaming.

This isn’t a big story but a good period-set comedy of manners with dramatic impact at times it’s quietly hilarious. It’s full of jealousy as one character wishes she had the bravery and freedom of the other. Based on a true story.

This is actually a perfect Sunday film as it is relaxing and laid-back with a diverse cast where Race isn’t brought up even for its time. Just as the sexism of the time is fully examined by examples.

It showcases, The fragility and support of female friendships.

As we find out, the letters are an extension of a passive-aggressive psyche, and the reasoning that adds more scandal which grows as it goes along, so does the story and circumstances

The film is quite refreshing as you don’t quite expect it as it up the steaks, adding an investigation, angle, and suspense.

Showcasing actions, no matter how minor have consequences. As well as adventure, characters, and observation with arcs joining along some reluctantly do away with the mystery element rather quickly..

The camera is solid yet moves along quickly at times with perfect timing 

Grade: B

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL (2022)

Directed By: Matthew Warchus 
Screenplay By: Dennis Kelly
Based On The Stage Musical By: Dennis Kelly and Tim Minchin 
Based On The Book By: Roald Dahl 
Cinematography: Tat Ratcliffe 
Editor: Melanie Ann Oliver 

Cast: Alisha Weir, Emma Thompson, Lashana Lynch, Stephen Graham, Andrea Risenborough, Sindhu Vee 

An adaptation of the Tony and Olivier award-winning musical. Matilda tells the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results.


I will admit to having a bias when it comes to this film. As I saw it on Broadway during its run before it became a movie.

I will also admit that I have only watched the Danny Devito-directed non-musical version in bits and pieces. Ever from beginning to end. 

Watching this film it sticks to the same beats as the Broadway musical. Which is only a bit more impressive because of what they managed to do with only a certain amount of space. 

The film itself is wonderful, dramatic, and fun and encourages children and adults with it’s

Positivity, focus on storytelling and literacy, and the power of imagination. 

The film stays colorful, entirely surreal, and a little grotesque, but amazing in its Songs that are uplifting and positive messages to never forget. The choreography is amazing and tight.

Truly a famous movie that has something for everyone. Though most of the cast are children who are more full-fledged characters. As the adults seem usually over the top and caricatured. At least the bad ones are. It is also heartwarming even in the end. Her parents who have treated her horribly actually show emotions for her.

I will admit towards the end it starts to falter and isn’t as strong as before. Where you wonder where it is going and wish for maybe a little stronger direction in the form of the surreal and fantasy, as Danny Devito’s Direction and less conventional direction in this version. 

The theme of the film Will leave you with a smile on your face and Emma Thompson shows she is having fun playing the main villain in the film, as the headmaster who is a former curling champion. Here at least she gets to play the villain and not necessarily the hero as in her NANNY MCPHEE films. It is a delight to see her in this film.

Grade: B