Matt's Musings

Week 4 : Denver Broncos 10, New York Jets 9 Season Record : 2-2 (0-1 Home) Key Play : In the Fourth Quarter, with less than a minute left and no timeouts, Jets' kicker Greg Zeurlein missed a 50-yard attempt that would have given the Jets a lead. It sealed the win. Recap : The Broncos' defense has been impressive all season. The Broncos' offense hasn't always been impressive. On Sunday, in rainy and terrible conditions in New York, the offense did just enough. Bo Nix only threw for 60 yards on 12 completions, but he had his first touchdown of the season. It was enough to overcome three field goals from the Jets and give the Broncos a narrow lead on the road. This is the second unexpected victory in a row as the Broncos prepare for a two-game home stand against the Raiders and Chargers. Don't look now, but the Broncos might have a little something going, especially if that defense holds up. Vance Joseph is the early season MVP. Game Balls: * Courtland Sutton . Sutton ...

  While the Spooky Season kicks off in September, we get it going full blast in October. We also have some blockbusters and potential award contenders. In short, it's a packed month. Let's dive in. Thursday, October 3: * Hold Your Breath (Hulu): This first Thursday presents a trio of horror releases on streaming, beginning with this one set during the Dust Bowl in 1930s Oklahoma. Looks intriguing and a different kind of premise. * Salem's Lot (Max):  We've seen this Stephen King novel adapted before. Now, we get a modern adaptation that drops on streaming to help kick off October. This is a must for fans of King's books. * House of Spoils (Prime Video) : Opening a restaurant is tough, but doing it while battling Ghosts is a nightmare. That's the plot here in this new spooky release for Prime Video starring Ariana Dubose. Friday, October 4: * Joker: Folie a Deux (Theaters): This is the follow up to the 2019 film that saw Joaquin Phoenix win an Academy Award. Th...

Animated Films have come a long way over the years. It's a genre and format that presents a wide range of styles and stories. This year, I'll be taking a look at my 50 favorite Animated Films, offering a new one from No. 50 to No. 1 each Saturday in 2024. Join along and feel free to add your own thoughts in the comments! Emmet : You don't have to be the bad guy. You are the most talented, most interesting, and most extraordinary person in the universe. And you are capable of amazing things. Because you are the Special. And so am I. And so is everyone. The prophecy is made up, but it's also true. It's about all of us. Right now, it's about you. And you... still... can change everything. The Lego Movie (2014) Starring: Chris Pratt, Will Ferrell, Will Arnett, Elizabeth Banks, and Alison Brie Director : Phil Lord and Christopher Miller About : Everything is Awesome! Especially with this first Lego movie. I've long enjoyed Legos, but I was wondering how a movie ...

Do you like a good Western? It's a classic genre in film and this year I've decided to look at some of my favorite Westerns. So, join me each Friday as I count down my favorite Westerns from No. 50 to No. 1.  Dr. King Schultz : How do you like the bounty hunting business? Django : Kill white folks and they pay you for it? What's not to like? Django Unchained (2012) Starring : Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kerry Washington, and Samuel L. Jackson Director : Quentin Tarantino About : No one makes films quite like Tarantino. That goes for this take on westerns. We've seen some of his films that play out like something of a revenge fantasy. In a lot of ways, that could be said of Django Unchained . But it's also a film with some excellent dialogue and some great performances. I love Waltz and Foxx in this, and DiCaprio's performance is nothing short of memorable. This film has some iconic and fun moments that I quite enjoy. It's not for everyon...

  Last week I took a step up in Picks against the Spread. Could this be my first week above .500? Let's dive in and find out. NFL Picks, Week 4: Cowboys Over Giants Falcons Over Saints Bears Over Rams Packers Over Vikings Steelers Over Colts Jets Over Broncos Eagles Over Buccaneers Bengals Over Panthers Texans Over Jaguars Commanders Over Cardinals 49ers Over Patriots Raiders Over Browns Chiefs Over Chargers Bills Over Ravens Dolphins Over Titans Lions Over Seahawks Last Week : 9-7 Season : 27-21 NFL Picks Spread, Week 4: Giants +4.5 Over Cowboys Falcons -1.5 Over Saints Bears -2.5 Over Rams Packers -2.5 Over Vikings Steelers -1.5 Over Colts Jets -6.5 Over Broncos Eagles -2.5 Over Buccaneers Panthers +4.5 Over Bengals Jaguars +6.5 Over Texans Commanders +3.5 Over Cardinals 49ers -9.5 Over Patriots Raiders -1.5 Over Browns Chargers +7.5 Over Chiefs Bills +2.5 Over Ravens Dolphins +.5 Over Titans Seahawks +4.5 Over Lions Last Week : 8-8 Season : 21-27

  We had a good week here as September in in full swing with two compelling theatrical films and a great streaming option. Let’s dive in! His Three Daughters (Netflix) Starring: Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen, Natasha Lyonne, and Jay Sanders Synopsis : Losing someone you love is hard. It’s harder still when you’re trying to reconnect with your family. Family is often what we’re born into, but those bonds can be stretched as we grow, evolve, and lose touch. His Three Daughters, a new film from Netflix, captures that beautifully. Three sisters—Katie (Coon), Rachel (Lyonne), and Christina (Olsen)—have come together as their father is dying. They are family, but it’s clear immediately they’re no longer close. There is a tension that hangs in the air that adds to the grief and difficulty of the situation. The final vigil is on. There are hospice workers, nurses, and the sisters taking turns sitting with their father and making preparations. Rachel has lived in the apartment for years, ca...

Fall started to blow up this week. We’re getting into the midst of the big fall premier season, which means the viewing choices will be plentiful. But which of these new series is worth your time? Let this weekly post be your guide as I review the pilot and second episode of new scripted—and select unscripted series—this Fall. Don’t see a new show listed below? Check previous weeks. Mondays: Rescue: HI-Surf, Mondays at 9 p.m. on FOX (Premiered September 22) About : I’m old enough to remember when Baywatch first launched. It was a Prime-Time series about lifeguards making saves in Los Angeles. Now, we’re getting another crack at a Prime-Time rescue series—this time set on the North Shore of Hawaii. The series focuses on members of the rescue team who help keep visitors and locals safe as they swim, surf, and recreate in the ocean and on the beach. The pilot begins with a cool rescue and launches into stories of these characters and life on the beach. The series got a two-episode, two-ni...

  Week 4 : Denver Broncos 26, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7 Season Record: 1-2 (0-1 Home) Key Play : In the Fourth Quarter, trailing 26-7, Baker Mayfield connected with tight end Cade Otton on a short pass. Otton fumbled, which was recovered by Brandon Jones, sealing the victory. Recap : The Broncos came out hot. The team aggressively threw the ball down the field to start the game and was able to score a touchdown on the first drive. While the offense wasn't always that aggressive, a good game plan combined with an aggressive defense allowed the Broncos to get their first win. That's encouraging. Bo Nix threw for more than 200 yards, avoided interceptions, and completed more than 60 percent of his passes. That's also encouraging. Still no passing touchdowns, but it's been a decent performance that provides some hope and encouragement. Those are all good signs. So, too, is a Broncos' defense that allowed only seven points on the road while forcing turnovers and getting se...

Films released in 1994 will turn 30 this year. Over the next few months, I'll be looking at some of the memorable films from that year, including some of my favorites. Today, it's an adaptation of a classic Stephen King novel. Mother Abagail : Oh, I'll do what you say, Lord — don't I always? But even your own Son prayed that the cup be taken from his lips, and I'm… prayin' the same thing. Heh heh. Probably… get about the same answer, too! [laughs] The Stand Starring : Gary Sinise, Molly Ringwald, Rob Lowe, Ruby Dee, Ossie Davis, and Jamey Sheridan Director : Mick Garris About : This isn't a feature film, per se. You might consider it a cheat, but this, to me, is one of the memorable cinematic experiences from 30 years ago. It's a long form adaptation of one of King's longest and most expansive novels. It's about the end of the world, or rather a battle between Good and Evil. I remember watching it as it aired over four nights on television in 199...

  Animated Films have come a long way over the years. It's a genre and format that presents a wide range of styles and stories. This year, I'll be taking a look at my 50 favorite Animated Films, offering a new one from No. 50 to No. 1 each Saturday in 2024. Join along and feel free to add your own thoughts in the comments! Mufasa : Everything you see exists together in a delicate balance. As king, you need to understand that balance and respect all the creatures, from the crawling ant to the leaping antelope. Young Simba : But, Dad, don't we eat the antelope? Mufasa : Yes, Simba, but let me explain. When we die, our bodies become the grass, and the antelope eat the grass. And so we are all connected in the great Circle of Life. The Lion King (1994) Starring : Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, and James Earl Jones Director: Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff About: There was a time when the Disney animated features felt like genuine events. They had sweeping musical numbers and b...

Do you like a good Western? It's a classic genre in film and this year I've decided to look at some of my favorite Westerns. So, join me each Friday as I count down my favorite Westerns from No. 50 to No. 1.  Charley Waite : Well, he sure as hell wasn't one to complain. Woke with a smile, seemed like he could keep it there all day. Kind of a man that'd say 'good morning' and mean it, whether it was or not. Tell you the truth, Lord, if there was two gentler souls in this world, I never seen 'em. Seems like old Tig wouldn't even kill birds in the end. Well, you got yourself a good man and a good dog, and I'm inclined to agree with Boss here about holding a grudge against you for it. I guess that means Amen. Open Range (2003) Starring : Kevin Costner, Robert Duvall, Diego Luna, Annette Bening, and Michael Gambon Director : Kevin Costner About : I mentioned a few weeks ago that one of the big staples of the Western genre is Costner, who has made great co...

  I had a great Week 1 and a mediocre Week 2. Let's see if I can get back on track for Week 3. NFL Picks, Week 3: Jets Over Patriots Browns Over Giants Packers Over Titans Colts Over Bears Texans Over Vikings Eagles Over Saints Steelers Over Chargers Buccaneers Over Broncos Raiders Over Panthers Seahawks Over Dolphins Cowboys Over Ravens 49ers Over Rams Lions Over Cardinals Chiefs Over Falcons Bills Over Jaguars Bengals Over Commanders Last Week : 6-10 Season : 18-14 NFL Picks Spread, Week 3: Jets -6.5 Over Patriots Browns -6.5 Over Giants Packers +2.5 Over Titans Colts -1.5 Over Bears Texans -2.5 Over Vikings Eagles +2.5 Over Saints Steelers -2.5 Over Chargers Buccaneers -6.5 Over Broncos Raiders -5.5 Over Panthers Dolphins +5.5 Over Seahawks Cowboys +.5 Over Ravens 49ers -6.5 Over Rams Lions -2.5 Over Cardinals Chiefs -3.5 Over Falcons Bills -5.5 Over Jaguars Bengals -7.5 Over Commanders Last Week : 7-9 Season : 13-19

  We’re in mid-September, which leaves us with an interesting mix of films in theaters and on streaming. Below is my take on all this week’s new releases. You can keep up with everything I’m watching by following me on Letterboxd @knighthawk7734. The Killer’s Game (Theaters) Starring: Dave Bautista, Pom Klementieff, Ben Kingsley, and Sophia Boutella Synopsis : The latest is an action film starring Bautista as Joe, a contract killer who is one of the best in the game. In the midst of a job, a dancer, Maize (Boutella), catches his eye. When he helps her out of a jam, he catches her eye, too. Soon, a spark flies and he decides to jump in. His friend and handler Zvi (Kingsley) is a fan of the relationship and makes plans to help Joe retire from his trade. Before he can, he gets a terminal diagnosis. Wanting to go out on his own terms, Joe makes arrangements for Maize to be taken care of and wants to put a hit on him to end his suffering quickly. Zvi won’t handle it, so he turns to a r...

  We’re in mid-September and the flood of new shows is starting to pick up. But with school, looming holidays, and the return of football, your schedule might be filling up. So, what’s worth your time to check out? Let this weekly post be your guide as I review the pilot and second episode of new scripted—and select unscripted—series this Fall. Don’t see a new show listed below? Check previous weeks. Fridays: How to Die Alone, Streaming Fridays on Hulu (Premiered September 13) About: Natasha Rothwell brings a new comedy that looks at a woman who is trying to find herself. She created the series and stars as Melissa, a single woman with few friends, few ties, and a menial job at the airport. On the night of her birthday—left alone when her friends make other plans—she is felled by a new wardrobe. She wakes in the hospital bruised, battered, and alone. When a fellow patient challenges her to look at life differently before she passes, Melissa leaves with a new sense of purpose—and a...

Week 2: Pittsburgh Steelers 13, Denver Broncos 6 Season Record : 0-2 (0-1 Home) Key Play: In the fourth quarter, with time winding down, Bo Nix tried to launch the ball down the field but was intercepted for the second time, ending the game. Recap: The Broncos came home and while the defense played well, the offense continues to struggle. Bo Nix threw two interceptions again, including a second week with a Red Zone interception. The team isn't able to establish a running game and there are too many mistakes (penalties and dropped passes) to be successful. That's a big concern. The defense is playing well but the offense is still a slog. I don't think this Broncos team will be successful this season, and we still don't know if Nix is the answer long-term. I am also concerned about Sean Payton and his work as coach. It's been a long time since this team was fun to watch and it doesn't look like that's going to change any time soon. Game Balls: * Josh Reynol...

  Films released in 1994 will turn 30 this year. Over the next few months, I'll be looking at some of the memorable films from that year, including some of my favorites. Today, it's a classic action feature. Howard Payne : Pop quiz, hotshot. There's a bomb on a bus. Once the bus goes 50 miles an hour, the bomb is armed. If it drops below 50, it blows up. What do you do? What do you do? Speed Starring : Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock, Jeff Daniels, and Dennis Hopper Director : Jan de Bont About : Reeves is an under-rated actor. It's a big year for anniversaries of his classic films, too. Earlier, we looked at The Matrix . Today, it's Speed . This was described as Point Break in a bus, but that feels a little too simplistic. Reeves is great here in the lead role, but it's the situation, the performances, and the tension built into the action by Jan de Bont. Hopper makes for a great foil, and I really enjoy Daniels as Reeves' older partner. His chemistry with Bu...

Animated Films have come a long way over the years. It's a genre and format that presents a wide range of styles and stories. This year, I'll be taking a look at my 50 favorite Animated Films, offering a new one from No. 50 to No. 1 each Saturday in 2024. Join along and feel free to add your own thoughts in the comments! Edna : This is a horrible suit, darling. You can't be seen in this. I won't allow it. Fifteen years ago, maybe, but now? Feh! Bob : Wait, what do you mean? *You* designed it. Edna : I never look back, darling! It distracts from the now. The Incredibles (2004) Starring : Craig T. Nelson, Samuel L. Jackson, Holly Hunter, and Jason Lee Director : Brad Bird About: Imagine the Fantastic Four, but animated. That's a fair description of this film, which is one of the better releases from Pixar. It spawned a decent sequel, but it's the original that spoke to me when I first saw it. For a while, it was my favorite Pixar film, and it's still one that...

Do you like a good Western? It's a classic genre in film and this year I've decided to look at some of my favorite Westerns. So, join me each Friday as I count down my favorite Westerns from No. 50 to No. 1.   Gold Hat : Badges? We ain't got no badges. We don't need no badges. I don't have to show you any stinking badges. The Treasure of Sierra Madre (1948) Starring : Humphrey Bogart, Walter Huston, Tim Holt, and Bruce Bennett Director : John Huston About : There are a lot of different kinds of westerns, but here we get a classic tale featuring Bogart and directed by Huston. Regardless of the genre, that is a combination you want to take in. This film has a memorable story, some memorable performances, and some memorable lines. One of those memorable lines is the one quoted here. This is a classic film and worth seeking out if you've never seen it. No one is better than Bogart!

 The first week of the NFL season was a wild ride. Week 2 promises to offer more of the same. I started off well picking winners, but not guessing scores. Let's see if that balances out in Week 2. NFL Picks, Week 2 Dolphins Over Bills Cowboys Over Saints Lions Over Buccaneers Colts Over Packers Jets Over Titans 49ers Over Vikings Patriots Over Seahawks Commanders Over Giants Chargers Over Panthers Jaguars Over Browns Ravens Over Raiders Rams Over Cardinals Steelers Over Broncos Chiefs Over Bengals Texans Over Bears Eagles Over Falcons Last Week : 12-4 NFL Picks Spread, Week 2: Dolphins -1.5 Over Bills Cowboys -6.5 Over Saints Buccaneers +6.5 Over Lions Packers +3.5 Over Colts Jets -3.5 Over Titans 49ers -4.5 Over Vikings Patriots +3.5 Over Seahawks Commanders -2.5 Over Giants Chargers -6.5 Over Panthers Jaguars -3.5 Over Browns Ravens -9.5 Over Raiders Rams +.5 Over Cardinals Steelers -2.5 Over Broncos Chiefs -5.5 Over Bengals Texans -6.5 Over Bears Eagles -6.5 Over Falcons Last We...

  This weekend saw a number of interesting new releases in theaters and on streaming, including the long-awaited sequel for a classic. Below is my take on all the new movies I saw this week. To keep up with everything I’m watching, you can follow me on Letterboxd @knighthawk7734. Apollo 13: Survival (Netflix) Synopsis: This new documentary features footage from the time along with interviews with surviving family members. It seeks to tell the true story of Apollo 13, the mission, how it went wrong, and the steps taken to bring the crew back safely. We’ve seen this story told a number of times in different ways—including a great scripted film starring Tom Hanks. But this one is from the families and the people involved in their own words—either via contemporary interviews or the footage documenting the incident. That gives it a unique feel that will be appealing for those who want to know more about the event. Rating : NA Verdict: Two and a half stars out of five Beetlejuice Beetl...

  We’re past Labor Day and the days are getting shorter. You can also add some Pumpkin Spice to your life. In short, the Fall season is upon us. Things are starting to heat up on the small screen, too, as we careen toward Fall TV premiers. In this weekly post I review the pilot and second episode of new scripted, and select unscripted, series. Let’s dive in. Thursdays: Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, Thursdays on Peacock (Premiered September 5) About : A top-notch cast take the stage in this 1970s-set drama that is inspired by true events. In it, Chicken Man (Kevin Hart) is hoping to use the upcoming fight for Muhammed Ali (Dexter Darden) as a way to make his fortune. He teams with a few others to throw a big party for Frank Moten (Samuel L. Jackson) that connects all the big bosses from around the country. But not everything goes as planned. This series is eight episodes, each about an hour. The first three released on Thursday with subsequent episodes dropping weekly. The ...

  Week 1 : Seattle Seahawks 26, Denver Broncos 20 Season Record : 0-1 (0-0 Home) Key Play : To start the Fourth Quarter, Geno Smith connected with Zach Charbonnet on a 30-yard touchdown strike to put the Seahawks up by 13 points. Recap: The Broncos looked great in an undefeated pre-season. Still, I urged caution. This roster is a work in progress and the Broncos really didn't play against anyone in the pre-season. It looked like that in Week 1, as Bo Nix showed himself a rookie QB. He was high and behind on many passes, missing wide open receivers. That combined with a lack of run game and passes at or behind the line-of-scrimmage, and the Broncos' offense was still not much fun to watch. People quickly wanted to blame Russell Wilson last year, but this offense looks the same with a new quarterback. There is work to be done. The defense was still solid, forcing turnovers and getting two safeties in the first half. But the offense needs work. This is a young team and this is go...

  Films released in 1994 will turn 30 this year. Over the next few months, I'll be looking at some of the memorable films from that year, including some of my favorites. Today, I'm looking at a classic that kick-started a franchise for Kevin Smith. Silent Bob : [His only line] You know, there's a million fine looking women in the world, dude. But they don't all bring you lasagna at work. Most of 'em just cheat on you. Clerks Starring : Brian O'Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Kevin Smith, and Jason Mewes Director : Kevin Smith About : He wasn't even supposed to be there that day! This was the first of Smith's films, and remains one of his best and most iconic. It also kicked off a franchise of films that include Jay (Mewes) and Silent Bob (Smith). Those characters, in fact, tie together this expanded universe, often featuring the same players in different roles. The films work to varying degrees, but there is something about this first film that speaks to the co...

Animated Films have come a long way over the years. It's a genre and format that presents a wide range of styles and stories. This year, I'll be taking a look at my 50 favorite Animated Films, offering a new one from No. 50 to No. 1 each Saturday in 2024. Join along and feel free to add your own thoughts in the comments! Charlie Brown : Before you leave, there's something I really need to know. Why, out of all the kids in our class, would you want to be partners with me? Little Red-Haired Girl: That's easy. It's because I've seen the type of person you are. Charlie Brown: An insecure, wishy-washy failure? Little Red-Haired Girl: That's not who you are at all. I like the compassion you showed for your sister at the talent show. The honesty you had at the assembly. And at the dance, you were brave and funny. And what you did for me, doing the book report while I was away, was so sweet of you. So when I look at you, I don't see a failure at all. You have...

Do you like a good Western? It's a classic genre in film and this year I've decided to look at some of my favorite Westerns. So, join me each Friday as I count down my favorite Westerns from No. 50 to No. 1.  Don Jose : We all dream of being a child again, even the worst of us. Perhaps the worst most of all. The Wild Bunch (1969) Starring : Ernest Borgnine, William Holden, Robert Ryan, and Edmond O'Brien Director : Sam Peckinpah About : This is a classic Western that has a very specific approach. This isn't one about building a story, though it does have a story and some interesting characters. This one is about the violence and scope. That's likely what people most remember, and as something of a thrill ride it does not disappoint. The closing sequence is memorable and well drawn. I enjoyed the way this was put together and the thrill ride it offers. If you like a good shoot out, this one's for you.

  We've made it to Week 1 of the NFL Season and I'm back making my weekly picks. Below are my picks and my picks against the Spread! NFL Picks, Week 1: Chiefs Over Ravens Eagles Over Packers Falcons Over Steelers Bills Over Falcons Bears Over Titans Bengals Over Patriots Texans Over Colts Dolphins Over Jaguars Saints Over Panthers Giants Over Vikings Chargers Over Raiders Broncos Over Seahawks Cowboys Over Browns Buccaneers Over Commanders Lions Over Rams 49ers Over Jets NFL Picks, Spread, Week 1: Chiefs -2.5 Over Ravens Eagles -1.5 Over Packers Falcons -2.5 Over Steelers Bills -6.5 Over Cardinals Bengals -8.5 Over Patriots Bears -4.5 Over Titans Texans -1.5 Over Colts Dolphins -3.5 Over Jaguars Panthers +4.5 Over Saints Giants +1.5 Over Vikings Raiders +3.5 Over Chargers Broncos +4.5 Over Seahawks Cowboys -1.5 Over Browns Commanders +4.5 Over Buccaneers Lions -3.5 Over Rams Jets +6.5 Over 49ers

  When we get to Labor Day Weekend, we know it’s going to be a mixed bag. With people traveling and the start of the College Football season, it’s not traditionally a big weekend for film. We got some new films, but were any actually good? Below is my take on the week’s new releases. 1992 (Theaters) Starring: Ray Liotta, Tyrese Gibson, and Scott Eastwood Synopsis: This film is set in Los Angeles in 1992 during the Rodney King riots. It follows an ex-con, Mercer (Gibson), who is trying to turn over a new leaf. He’s left behind his gang member days and is trying to work hard, keep his head down, and keep his son out of trouble. When the riots break out, Mercer knows it’s bad news. He rounds up his son and tries to get to his workplace—a metal factory that’s heavily guarded because of the value it holds. There, he comes across a gang of thieves led by Lowell (Liotta) and his son (Eastwood). That forces Mercer to lean on his former life to keep his family safe. It’s been more than two...