Film Review: “Midas Man”
By Rachel Galvin
You say you want a revolution? Well, you know, we all want to change the world…
And in 1962, an elegant and refined businessman did just that. He took a look at some ragtag hoodlums trying to be musicians, snatched them up from the caverns where they were causing musical mischief and took them on a trip they could never expect. Those four talented upstarts were called The Beatles and the man who shaped them into the phenomenon they would become was Brian Epstein, also known by some as “the fifth Beatle.”
The movie “Midas Man,” directed by Joe Stephenson, tells the story of how Epstein went from window dressing in his father’s furniture store to becoming a manager of a band that changed music forever. It was his love of music that led him to add records to his dad’s store, which became a concept unto itself and later would lead to his career in management. Unsure of the business at first, Epstein had the confidence and insight to persevere. His instincts helped to mold the four irreverent ruffians into a more sophisticated brand for a mainstream audience.
The movie starts with the beginning of his yearning for more in his life and builds from there, showing the challenges along the way as he takes on new clients, and Liverpool lads’ wry sense of humor. The actors who play the boy band members — Jonah Lees (John), Blake Richardson (Paul), Leo Harvey-Elledge (George), 1st drummer Adam Lawrence (Paul Best) and his replacement, Ringo (Campbell Wallace) — resemble them in physicality and action quite completely. Jay Leno has a surprising role as Ed Sullivan. Although he has a similar stature, he does not look like Sullivan, but it is nice to see him in this cameo. Eddie Izzard also makes a cameo.
Jacob Fortune Lloyd, who plays Epstein, is fun to watch, a perfect lead. He narrates in addition to being within the scenes, breaking the fourth wall. They also use green screen with segmented portions of the screen to show different activities all going on at once behind him as he moves forward, to showcase the passage of time while The Beatles are on tour. This and other interesting cinematic devices make the film more engaging. The approach feels modern.
Epstein is a multilayered character, with his Jewish mother (Emily Watson) worrying about him and his strict father (Eddie Marsan) seeming to disapprove of his life choices. He also is gay, which proves very difficult for him, since, at that time, it was illegal, causing him to live in the shadows. He not only tries to hide his proclivities from the world, but his secret shame is buried under handfuls of pills, which ultimately leads to his downfall.
For those who don’t know the story, it proves quite eye-opening, and for those who do, they are sure to be engaged by the way in which it is told. Want to dive into this biopic about the Fab Four? It will be opening March 21 at Movies of Delray and Movies of Lake Worth.
FLOW Film Festival Starts This Weekend
Tickets are selling fast for FLOW Film Festival’s Season 6. The festival runs February 27 through March 3. This ambitious creative endeavor featuring local filmmakers brings highly anticipated attention to the Fort Lauderdale film community.
The events during the festival attract politicians, dignitaries and international royalty. Past guests include Lady Didi Wong, Channel 10 News anchor Calvin Hughes, Queen Karen Hendrickson of Ghana, and The Honorable George Hamilton, Consulate General. Celebrities are also abundant as they walk the red carpet. There are live performances at a variety of chic, local venues.
“Excellent communication and friendly hospitality: what more could we want from organizing a festival? Thanks a lot for this exciting experience,” said Vittorio Caratozzolo, Italian filmmaker and professor.
“It was the best experience; all the staff did an amazing job. It was such a fun and engaging film festival, I learned so much from their team, it was really empowering, and a true honor to be a part of. Definitely recommend!” said Esther Farin, award-winning director.
“Great festival for female filmmakers, and in general for indie filmmakers. A truly international mix of great projects from around the world,” shared Eha Urbsalu, filmmaker and beauty queen.
“You are amazing, Kimberly Douglas from FLOW Film Festival and Market … Thank you from my heart for putting on such an awesome and life changing event! I am so thankful to God for you,” said Amy Barbera, award-winning singer.
“We had such a good time at this festival! It is small but growing quickly due to their enthusiasm and ambition. Kimberly and her team were amazing hosts and made the whole event very special. It was a close, intimate event and a great opportunity to meet with other filmmakers. Put this one on your list!” added Malcolm Ellis, Cayman Islands executive producer
Flow Film Festival is produced by Kimberly Douglas. Opening Night Sponsor is The Easton Rooftop at Courtyard Mariott, Red Carpet Sponsor is SCL Events, Gala Fashion Show Sponsor is Bella Fashion Designs, Film Screening Sponsor is Cinema Paradiso Hollywood, Community Masterclass Sponsor is The World Aids Museum at ArtServ, and Awards Gala Sponsor is Alma’s Steakhouse at Gulfstream Racetrack.
FLOW Film Festival kicks off its 2024-25 season of powerful films focusing on the nature of families the dynamics of abuse. Films include the World Premiere of “Brother’s Horn,” “Best Kept Shut,” “Back to Me,” “Art as Hope,” “Tormented,” “Jupiter” and “Clan Woman,” among others. They will be available online at EntertainmentOxygen.com and at The FLOW South Florida Film Showcase, to be held at Cinema Paradiso Hollywood on February 28.
Individual day passes start at $20. A special Women’s Awards Night at Alma’s Steakhouse, Gulfstream will take place on March 2. The show runs for two hours and 40 minutes and includes a fashion extravaganza by Bella Fashion Designs as well as live performances from local artists, with DJ Sergio spinning the night away.
FLOW Film Festival will also be offering two All Access Pass options this season. The All-Access Pass ($100) offers access to all events and screenings with a complimentary beverage at each. The All-Access VIP Pass ($150) offers access to all events and screenings with 2 complimentary beverages at each and seating with the founder, Kimberly Douglas . Discounts are available for groups.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.flowffm.com, call 424-222-3370 or email info@flowffm.com.
Follow FLOW Film Festival on Facebook at www.facebook.com/flowfilmfestivalmarket and on Instagram at @flowfilmfestivalmarket.
Visit Lauderdale Science Festival Returns March 8
The Visit Lauderdale Science Festival is back and better than ever. On Saturday, March 8, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., families can dive into a full day of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) excitement at the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) and Esplanade Park in Fort Lauderdale. Best of all? It’s completely free!
This event is a perfect opportunity for young minds to unleash their creativity and learn about science. It also includes a lot of fun! The event kicks off with President & CEO of MODS, Joe Cox, getting SLIMED, all in the name of science. But it expands from there throughout the museum and Esplanade Park, featuring nationally renowned STEM presenters, gravity-defying acrobatics and interactive challenges. Highlights include:
- Spheres Bubble Show – A mind-blowing fusion of art, science and magic! Created by Blaise Ryndes, the bubble phenom from “America’s Got Talent” Season 13, this Cirque Du Soleil-style performance transforms simple bubble science into a dazzling display of visuals and comedic charm.
- WeFlip Science Acrobats – Physics in motion! What started in a circus-renovated garage has soared to new heights, amazing audiences at Disney and beyond. WeFlip Entertainment is known for its gravity-defying stunts and thrilling acrobatics, all showcasing Newton’s Second Law in action! Experience the flips, stacks and daring feats that make them a must-see experience!
- It’s Not Magic, It’s Science – Starring Jay Flores, global STEM ambassador, PBS’s “Make48” host and “American Ninja Warrior” star, this show blends mind-bending illusions with real science to spark curiosity in all ages. As a Discovery Education Mystery Science Guide, Flores has inspired millions of students by answering fun STEM questions. Witness the magic of science in this eye-opening, interactive experience!
Families can get creative together, including learning binary code and creating a bracelet with their initials encoded in black and white beads. They can sharpen their math skills with a DIY paper game or experiment with pressure and buoyancy through Cartesian divers, and enjoy other opportunities to tinker and use tools. In addition, kids can learn about STEM careers through hands-on activities with CTS Engines, LEGO® Build the Change, Broward MPO, Blue Frontier and more.
There will be live science demonstrations, such as the Oobleck Run. Participants can run across a pool of non-Newtonian fluid and explore the surprising science of solid-liquid hybrids. And kids will be wowed by the Liquid Nitrogen Show.
Guests can participate in hourly challenges to win prizes like MAGNA-TILES® Dino XL sets and Squishmallows, including:
- Pressing Plaque – Use a stent to clear plaque buildup and understand its impact on blood flow.
- Antigen Elimination – Remove as many pathogens as possible in 20 seconds using a magnetic fishing line.
- Bristle Bots – Build a tiny vibrating robot and watch it scuttle around.
- Balloon Hover Boards – Engineer a hover board with balloons and learn about air pressure.
“We are thrilled to host the return of the Visit Lauderdale Science Festival, an awe-inspiring celebration of STEM that will now be an annual cornerstone event for Broward County,” said Joseph P. Cox, president & CEO of MODS. “Science festivals unite communities, ignite curiosity and showcase South Florida’s thriving STEM industries. By connecting young minds with industry leaders, we hope to inspire future innovators and drive economic and educational growth in our region.”
“The Visit Lauderdale Science Festival is an event that represents our commitment to innovation and education in Greater Fort Lauderdale,” said Stacy Ritter, president & CEO of Visit Lauderdale. “By supporting this festival, we not only celebrate the wonders of science but also position our destination as a place for discovery, creativity and intellectual growth.”
Kids can grab a Festival Passport and collect stamps at activity stations and exhibits throughout MODS and Esplanade Park for a chance to win prizes like 4Ocean Bracelets, LEGO® kits and more!
Parents might especially be interested in some of the guest speakers. At the Innovation Showcase, local industries and universities highlight cutting-edge research shaping our community. At the Science Cafés, families can connect with leading STEM professionals and explore the latest discoveries.
Featured speakers include:
- Dr. Laura Fontenas, assistant professor of biological sciences at Florida Atlantic University, presenting groundbreaking neurobiology research on spinal injury repair.
- Dr. Afeefa Abdool-Ghany, senior scientist at Brizaga, discussing the origins of South Florida’s drinking water, focusing on the region’s aquifers and the importance of protecting them from pollution.
- Amaka Amalu, PE, founder of Tech Girl Power, empowering young girls in STEM from underserved backgrounds.
- Additional speakers from top research institutions and industries, sharing cutting-edge insights into science, technology and innovation.
The Visit Lauderdale Science Festival is sponsored by Visit Lauderdale (Title Sponsor); Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan (Platinum Sponsor); Amazon, Blue Frontier, MacGillivray Freeman Educational Foundation, UKG (Gold Sponsors); Centuric Technologies, Florida Philanthropic Network, Publix Super Markets Charities, R-Squared Charitable Fund, Save Our Seas Foundation (Silver Sponsors); Broward MPO, CTS Engines, M&T Bank (Copper Sponsors); ABA Centers of Florida, McGriff (Titanium Sponsors); 4Oceans Foundation, Doubletime Digital, Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, IKEA Sunrise, Jazwares, JetBlue, MAGNA-Tiles®, Xpress Entertainment (In-Kind Sponsors).
More Fun at MODS
Guests will enjoy free access to MODS’ world-class, educational and inspiring exhibits that shape our world and fuel innovation, including the new “Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit,” presented locally by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Florida Prepaid College Savings Plans. Children will unravel the secrets of world-famous heroes in this new exhibit that brings to life the acclaimed PBS KIDS® TV series, “Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum,” which follows kid adventurers Xavier Riddle, his little sister Yadina and best friend Brad as they tackle everyday problems by doing something extraordinary: traveling back in time to learn from real-life inspirational figures when they were kids. The PBS KIDS® TV series, “Xavier Riddle and The Secret Museum” is based on the highly acclaimed children’s book series “Ordinary People Change the World” by #1 New York Times bestselling author and South Florida resident Brad Meltzer and award-winning letterer and illustrator Chris Eliopoulos. “Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit “is a national traveling exhibit created by The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum in collaboration with 9 Story Media Group, Inc.
In addition, they can check out an IMAX film! As part of the Visit Lauderdale Science Festival, the IMAX Film Series Expo, presented by MacGillivray Freeman Educational Foundation, features “Superhuman Body: World of Medical Marvels,” an awe-inspiring journey into the cutting-edge advancements transforming human health. From bionic limbs to revolutionary gene therapies, this immersive IMAX® experience showcases the future of medicine on the GIANT screen at the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater.
For more information and to reserve tickets, visit mods.org/sciencefest.
Film Review: “You, Me and Her”
By Rachel Galvin
How many couples reach a certain stage and just have a disconnect? Each find themselves living separate lives and struggling to find harmony. Perhaps, they find, over time, that they have changed, but their partner has not, or maybe they are going in two different directions.
In the movie “You, Me and Her,” married couple Ash (Ritesh Rajan) and Mags (Selina Ringel) struggle to come together. His career is a bit rocky at the moment. He has turned his hobby of weed into a business, while she is in private equity. They both have begun to hide secrets from one another.
But, perhaps a romantic trip to Mexico will do the trick. They leave the baby behind with the nanny and they are on their way. But when they get there, he begins spending most of his time thinking about where to get weed, and she feels restless. When a couple entices them to have a wild time, it is the first step toward leaving their cares behind to pursue something new. Will it bring them together, or tear them apart?
For Mags, it means rediscovering a part of her she had forgotten and maybe means finding a part she did not even know was there. Her blossoming interest in uncovering more of herself leads to a third entering their circle, the suntanned and serene Yoga instructor Angela (Sydney Park) — toppling the apple cart, so to speak, on their somewhat vanilla existence. The idea of a threesome emerges, leaving them anxious and excited for the first time in a long time, and leaving Ash wondering if he ever knew his wife at all.
But making their fantasy come true is not so simple as one thing after another gets in their way. In the process, some unwanted truths get thrown in the mix threatening their very relationship.
This is a fun-to-watch and relatable film to anyone who has had a bit of wild adventure in their life, or who has wanted one. Solid acting and comic moments add to the heart of this comic and dramatic film. The film is directed by Dan Levy Dagerman and written by Ringel. The movie was voted 100% fresh by Rotten Tomatoes!
The film is perfect for Valentines Day as it shows the ups and downs of love, offering a dose of reality, but also hope. It is showing in select theaters beginning February 14. For more information, visit ymhmovie.com.
Theaters:
Miami/Ft. Lauderdale:Silverspot Miami, Regal Oakwood Stm 18, Cinepolis Coconut Grove, Regal South Beach 18
West Palm Beach: Regal Royal Palm Beach, Epic Theatres of Palm Coast, Regency Square 8
Ft Myers/Naples: Spotlight Theatres Venice Luxury 11, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Naples, Regal Belltower Stm 20,
Tampa/St. Petersburg: B&B Wesley Chapel The Grove 16, Regal Park Place 16
Orlando: Epic Lee Vista, Regal Pointe Orlando Stm 20, Epic Theatres W Volusia, Oaks 10, GQT Merritt Square 16,Epic Theatres Mount Dora, Epic Old Mill Playhouse 8, Epic Theatres at Titusville
Gainesville/Ocala: Epic Theatres of Ocala
Breaking Tradition — “Sabbath Queen” Explores Jewish Identity & Societal Rules
By Rachel Galvin
Tradition is the way to keep balanced, according to the popular play and movie “Fiddler on the Roof.” What happens when tradition goes out the window? Anything can happen. This sense of freedom and wild abandon can be a welcome playground to some or chaos and destruction to those who long for stability and order.
The film “Sabbath Queen” spends 21 years following the life of Amichai Lau-Lavie, a descendent of 38 generations of rabbis, whose father escaped the holocaust. His immediate family is all very important in the religion as well.
Everything seems in order until Lau-Lavie disrupts the apple cart, so to speak. The first break from the ordinary is his declaration of being a homosexual. The worst part of this sentence is the idea that he would not continue the line with children.
Instead of living a life of a rabbi filled with family and prayers, he chooses to become an artist, moving to New York in the 1990s and creating his own type of spiritual community. And to pour gas on the fire, he dresses up as a woman. Oy gevalt! So, he has turned into a whole new personality running a very experimental group of artistic and spiritual individuals called Lab Shul. Within it, all are welcome, including those who have different definitions of the divine. He becomes a radical fairy and ordains weddings, but not just any weddings, but, interfaith ones, oy vey–something that is forbidden. The film also explores the role of women in orthodoxy. He ends up doing something else quite radical to help out two women that has an unexpected silver lining.
Lau-Lavie seems fine living in this counterculture and is embraced in his role. Just as he seems comfortable in his choices, tragedy happens — his father dies, and then, he makes a radical choice — to become a rabbi. Although he still is within his community, he now has certain things he is no longer allowed to do, such as dressing as a woman and officiating weddings that are interfaith, much to the chagrin of his congregation. But he still hopes to make some changes to the traditions and religion working from the inside out.
As he finds himself choosing compassion over loyalty to certain political affiliations, he bumps heads with the wrong people, and now finds himself again in conflict with his new rabbinical community. It seems he can’t win no matter where he turns. And so, he is in a new chapter in his life once again.
This film, directed by Sandi DuBowski, is a bit of a roller coaster ride, as Lau-Lavie explores his own inner being and wonder what it means to be a Jew. It leaves the viewer reflective and wondering about their own beliefs on religion, politics and humanity. It is quite engaging.
The film is coming to Florida. Here are the times:
Schedule:
February 4 – February 6, 2025
Savor Cinema, 503 SE 6th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 7:30 pm
Wednesday, Feb.5 at 5:30 pm
Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7:30 pm Q&A with director Sandi DuBowski follows screening
February 7 – February 10, 2025
Cinema Paradiso, 2008 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33020
Friday, Feb. 7, 7 pm. Q&A with director Sandi DuBowski follows screening
Saturday, Feb. 8, 4:30 pm
Sunday, Feb.9, 2:30 pm. & 7 pm
Monday, Feb. 10 at 4:30 pm
February 9, 2025 Only
Coral Gables Art Cinema, 260 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
Sunday, Feb. 9 at 1:15 pm Q&A with director Sandi DuBowski follows screening
Sun & Stars Shines Through Feb. 2
Barbara Scharres & director Bruce David Klein at Q&A following film
By Rachel Galvin
The Sun & Stars Film Festival kicked off on January 23 with the film “Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story” at the Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. Before the film, there was a reception complete with Asian light bites, a keyboardist performing and champagne and wine being passed around. Before guests left the area to head to the theater, they could grab a box of their choice of candy to snack upon. Once inside the theater, they had their choice of buttered or cheesy popcorn.
Keith Myers, the president and CEO of MorseLife Health System said a few words before turning the microphone over to Donald M. Ephraim and Terri C. Sriberg, who are both founders and consulting principals. Ephraim told a few jokes to warm up the crowd. Next came Barbara Scharres, the artistic director, who said there are 26 more films to come in the fest, and she introduced the director of the opening night film, Bruce David Klein. He would also come back after the film to do a Q&A moderated by Scharres.
The film was a documentary focused on Minnelli and how she came to be such an icon following the death of her mother, the legendary Judy Garland. The movie focused on the mentors around her that emerged to help her find her own unique voice away from her mother’s memory. It showcased the heartache she felt, the tragedies she endured, as well as the victories along the way.
This was just the first film in a long list of motion pictures that will be shown at The Kravis, as well as at EVO Entertainment in Delray Marketplace.
To see the list of all the films, special guests, and to buy tickets, visit sasiff.org.
Keith Myers 
Barbara Scharres 
Donald M. Ephraim and Terri C. Sriberg 
Director Bruce David Klein
Turn Back Time at JA World Uncorked!
By Rachel Galvin
One of the premier events in the area is taking it back in time… to the 1980s, Miami Vice style. That event is JA World Uncorked and the theme encourages as many popped collars as possible and plenty of neon. Get ready to party in style.
This yearly event is perfect for foodies as top local restaurants bring out samples of their signature dishes, and Breakthru Beverage Florida will be ready to pour. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino always rocks it with live entertainment. There is always a silent auction as well. This truly will be the place to be.
The event, which will be held on Saturday, January 25, from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m., at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, 1130 Coconut Crek Blvd., benefits Junior Achievement.
It’s going to be totally awesome! Get all the details at https://jasouthflorida.org/events/uncorked.
Theater Spotlight: “From Brooklyn to Boca”
By Rachel Galvin
Sharon Pfeiffer has been showing her comedy chops again. This force-to-be-reckoned-with shows her prowess in a brand-new play she wrote and is the lead in called “From Brooklyn to Boca.” The fish out of water tale is likened to “The Sopranos meets The Goldbergs.” It is not for the easily offended and gives an equal opportunity ribbing to both the Jewish and Italian cultures, but it’s all in good fun. The play follows her character, Regina’s, journey. Her husband, known as “Fuggedabout it Frank,” played by Alex Alonso, is involved with some mafia dealings. When the other mobsters get pinched, he will also take the fall. In order to save himself, he has to make a drastic life change, going into the witness protection program. This takes him and his family — Regina and their wise cracking son Carmine– from living in Brooklyn, New York to Boca Raton, Florida and means changing his name and becoming Jewish.
This culture shock is the crux of the play. And plenty of laughs ensued, many over Frank’s interesting choice of vocabulary. Alonso plays it well. Pfeiffer scores plenty of laughs as she does her best to keep their real identity hidden. They meet some interesting characters along the way and still have to worry about if the mobsters will track them down and destroy their new life, and then it would be curtains. They have to keep their wits about them to make it through this tough situation.
Overall, the play was well written with fun characters and snappy hilarious interactions. There is some breaking of the fourth wall, especially by Pfeiffer, who serves as the narrator for the play. All of the mobsters have fun camaraderie together, something thoroughly embraced by the actors. Each character has a funny name, such as Joey “Bag A Laundry” Romanelli, Big Sal Vitti and Mikey “the Bat” DiMaggio.
The new characters she encounters bring their own sense of comic relief. A shout out to actor Cameron Holder, whose character got laughs every time he hit the stage.
This play shows independent spirit. Since it was first a movie, it kind of is presented that way with many scene changes and much movement of makeshift props to set the scene. A huge kudos to the whole cast and crew for being brave enough to create something brand new.
Every night so far has been sold out. The opening gala night on January 10 was packed and the legendary singer Connie Francis attended. (Sher says she is collaborating with her on a new version of her iconic film “Where the Boys Are” called “Where the Men Are.”) Francis made sure to call over Pfeiffer to let her know how much she enjoyed the play and to encourage her, something that left Pfeiffer honored and kvelling. But Francis was not the only one giving praise. She received praise from everyone.
Guests were treated to delicious light bites and music from DJ Freakin Dominick and some even busted out into disco dancing, while others enjoyed champagne, wine and other spirits. It was a lovely evening.
In the beginning…
For Pfeiffer, this play was pretty personal. After all, she has direct real experience with starting anew here in Florida after dealing with mobsters back in New York. She actually escaped the life of being a mob wife in New York before starting over here in the Sunshine State. Her story was told on the TV show “I Married a Mobster,” Season 2, episode 3. It is quite the tale.
She took her experiences and used them to create something unique, teaming up with Deni B. Sher to write this story. Sher has a background in theater and screenwriting, and has co-written an award-winning local film called “Boxed” with Laurel Levey about The Holocaust, as well as others, including a film called “Grave Errors” and one called “The Imagined.” Her script “Evergreen Christmas Wedding,” also begins production soon.
Originally, the play “From Brooklyn to Boca” was intended to be a movie. They filmed the pilot and a teaser (directed by Josh Louis) and were in the process of shopping it as a feature film when they decided to go in a different direction and try it as a play. So, they rewrote the script a bit and did a staged reading, later to tweak some more, hold auditions and put together the show. (Side note: In the original pilot, this reporter was in the role of Rhonda, and in the play, was cast in a different role, as the news anchor).
The play was directed and produced by Sharee C. Pemberton, who also has quite the background. This native Floridian went to Chicago to be part of Roger Ebert’s Film Critics’ Awards before returning to the state. As a creative director, she also has won the Clio for the iconic “This Bud’s For You!” campaign. She also has worked with the USO Entertainment Troupe with actor Gary Sinese and received an Emmy for a PBS special. She was the executive producer for the film “The Letter,” which will be released soon. As far as her experience in theater, she worked for Fox Theatricals on “The Producers,” which won a Tony, and has won additional awards for her work as a producer and actress. In addition, she is an author of two books.
As for “From Brooklyn to Boca,” there are plans for additional runs of the play. Who knows what is next for this comedy.
More about Pfeiffer — she also is a stand-up comedian on the local circuit and continues to act in various projects. She can be seen as in a funny sexy role in “The Beach Bum,” directed by Harmony Korine, with Matthew McConaughey, among many others.
“From Brooklyn to Boca” will be shown at The Studio in Mizner Park in Boca Raton through Jan. 19. For more info. and tickets, visit www.thestudioatmiznerpark.com.
Photos by Rachel Galvin. More pics coming soon on the Facebook page.
Film Review: “Bad Shabbos”
When David (Jon Bass), who is Jewish, and his fiance, Meg (Meghan Leathers), who is Catholic, invite her parents for the first time to meet his parents, nerves run high. After all, David’s mom Ellen (Kyra Sedgwick) is not too happy with someone of a different faith becoming her daughter-in-law, even though she is converting. The awkwardness ensues immediately. Everything from preparing dinner to making small talk is like nails on a chalkboard. Things are not going well.
But they are going to get worse. Added into the mix are other inner family conflicts. David’s sister Abby (Milana Vayntrub) is fighting with her boyfriend Benjamin (Ashley Zukerman), so is David’s brother, Adam, who is his own brand of nutty. Furious with Benjamin and filled with anxiety, he needs to pop pills to calm down but that doesn’t stop him from creating conflict. Little did he know his actions would lead to the unraveling of the whole family and night. Not even his father Richard’s (David Paymer) self-help theories can help to soothe the drama that unfolds. Even hip doorman Jordan (“Method Man”) gets swept up in the situation. The more challenges that occur, the funnier it becomes.
The actors did a great job at pacing and characterization, adding to the comedy of the moment. Kyra Sedgwick really shines as the mom. Meg’s parents, played by Catherine Curtin and John Bedford Lloyd, excel when they appear on screen, as do the rest of the cast throughout.
This film is sure to delight all audiences, but especially those familiar with Jewish culture, or simply the awkwardness involved when there is a clash of cultures. The award-winning film, directed by Daniel Robbins and co-written by Zack Weiner, will be shown exclusively at Movies of Delray beginning December 6. The director, as well as producer Adam Mitchell, will be in attendance on opening day and on weekends.
In January 2025, the comedy will screen in West Palm at the Sun and Stars International Film Festival (January 23-Feb. 2), and at the Miami Jewish Film Festival (January 9-23). After that it will roll out to additional theaters in Florida and elsewhere in the U.S.
For more information, visit moviesofdelray.com.
Men of Style 2024 is almost here
Photo from 2021 Men of Style event
By Rachel Galvin
Food, Spirits, Fashion & Philanthropy — Men of Style is a high energy event that has it all. Held at the Galleria Mall, this year’s event, presented by Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel, will take place December 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. WPLG news anchor Jacey Birch will emcee and Jay McCracken will be the guest DJ.
Guests can grab a drink and a light bite from one of the many participating area restaurants. They also enjoy live entertainment and engage in the lively fashion show.
Every year, 12 men from the community are honored and each represents a different charity. Their supporters come out to cheer them on as they strut down the runway wearing trendy fashions along with models. This year’s honorees are Raphael Walters, for Florida Children’s Theatre, William Schultz for The Pride Center at Equality Park, Chaz Warrington for Junior Achievement of South Florida, Alec Bogdanoff for History Fort Lauderdale, Baldwyn English for Art & Culture Center/ Hollywood, Hayden Casson for Henderson Behavioral Health, Emmanuel Garnier from Handy, Scott Dunseath for FLITE Center, Israel Gomez for Leadership Broward Foundation, Ramon Moreno for Kids in Distress, TJ Walsh for South Florida Symphony Orchestra and Captain Lee Rosbach for Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center.
You can vote on your favorite man, get more details on the event, participate in the raffle and get tickets for the event at galleriamall-fl.com/events-promotions.