Written, Directed by Michael Sarnoski
Starring: Hugh Jackman (Robin Hood), Jodie Comer (Sister Brigid), Bill Skarsgård (Edward/Little John), Murray Bartlett (The Leper), Noah Jupe (Arthur)
Synopsis: A rugged, guilt stricken aged Robin Hood emerges from exile after being severely wounded, finding sanctuary and forming an unlikely companionship inside a secluded monastery.

Michael Sarnoski transformed one of the oldest existing tales, Robin Hood’s Death, into a grim and somber film that leans on visual storytelling over spoken dialogue to convey its deep emotional weight. The Death of Robin Hood is an interesting story that gradually crescendos to its peak. The narrative follows a man tormented by his past actions, caught in a paralyzing cycle of regret and bitterness that hardens him into a harsh, resentful figure.

Those expecting the high-energy action from Hugh Jackman’s typical roles will be disappointed and perplexed with scenes that linger and feeling empty. The minimal action does have a maximum impact. By stripping away unnecessary dialogue, the film creates a direct pipeline to the character’s innermost thoughts. Alternatively, the dramatic perspective of Robin Hood simmers on the process of the dark haunting themes reflective within its visual aesthetics.

Hugh Jackman is extremely versatile with his approach on his role giving internal conflict and grittiness to Robin Hood. This is truly one of his most exceptional performances, perfectly displaying his incredible capabilities. All the while, his co-stars Bill Skarsgård, Murray Bartlett, Noah Jupe and Jodie Comer brought out an immensely profound emotional depth to their respective characters. The impressive, talented cast are the heart and soul of the picture, making it silently powerful.

Despite its slow tempo, the obscure melodramatic tale of The Death of Robin Hood is worth a watch, if you appreciate the English folklore.

Directed by Pierre Coffin
Screenplay by Brian Lynch, Pierre Coffin
Starring: Pierre Coffin, Trey Parker, Allison Janney, Christoph Waltz, Jesse Eisenberg, Jeff Bridges, Zoey Deutch, Bobby Moynihan, and Phil LaMarr

Synopsis: Set in 1920s Hollywood, the Minions chase their dream of making a monster movie. In pursuit of searching for their extraordinary monster, they summon a devious little green creature who leads them into releasing two destructive monsters that ultimately threaten to destroy the planet. The Minions partner up with a unique alien robot to defeat the creature and monsters to save the world.

Hurray for Hollywood! The Minions have taken over the spotlight and reaching for the stars like George Lucas. Pierre Coffin continues to elevate the Minions’ exciting journey with nonstop laughter and new characters in Minions & Monsters. He genially incorporates their history with the evolution of motion pictures to the storyline, paying tribute to first true moving picture The Horse in Motion and movie classics Casablanca, The Day the Earth Stood Still, The Blob, and Jaws.

The constructed storyline by Brian Lynch and Pierre Coffin shine in this production. They added the components of film making throughout the scenes – camera model, storyboards, lighting, sound, and set design. It is a fun way to pique the interest of today’s youth about cinema. However, the narrative focuses on how these yellow fellows serve as the ultimate testament to the power of friendship – an invaluable takeaway for anyone. The Minions are a core group of best friends working together, chasing the Hollywood dream while in search of serving a “big boss”. They are hysterically funny, imaginative, incredibly intelligent, tenacious and even heroic.

Minions make alliances without hesitation as seen with Goomi (who seems to represent a manipulative studio producer) and Dort (the surprising knight in shining armor). Their creative curiosity and assertiveness drive them to success, the Minion way, with absolute mayhem accompanied by cheers and celebration. These little yellow good-natured cousins of Gremlins will have you speaking Minionese by the end of the movie, if you aren’t already.

Coffin’s active imagination with the impeccable animation team and stacked voice cast launch Minions & Monsters as the franchise’s crowning achievement and making it the best animated comedy of the summer.

Directed by Joseph T. Walker
Written by Joseph T. Walker and Christopher C. Young
Starring David Morse (as Carson Tidwell), Jaklyn Bejarano (as Irene Romero), Bill Heck (as Harley Tidwell)

Synopsis: Carson Tidwell, a secluded rancher, inadvertently shoots Irene Romero, a pregnant undocumented immigrant who was trespassing on his land. He has second thoughts and decides to hide her from his estranged son Harley, a Border Patrol agent. Carson and Irene form a redemptive bond.

Although the film reflects the underlying dangers of those taking extreme risks migrating to the United States in search of a better, safer life from their country of origin, there is much more to the storyline than just migration. It encompasses a man being wrecked by quiet remorse after the passing of his wife that came with serious repercussions, which led to the arising tension with his son. By choosing to support a pregnant woman through her journey, he finally experiences true peace and liberation.

Director Joseph T. Walker filmed Broken Land in the rustic areas of Alice and Freer, Texas which brings authenticity to the storyline. Walker captures the rugged yet majestic Texas scenery with its picturesque sunsets in the cattle capital. Utilizing these specific locations anchored the film’s tone and his beautiful use of animals symbolized deeper thematic elements that illuminate the characters’ true nature, allowing to instill an empathetic relation to their experiences.

David Morse naturally embodied the spirit of a Texas cattleman. The highly respected actor and extraordinary Hollywood gem gave an impeccable performance that elevated the material with Jaklyn Bejarano. Bejarano, an actress from Mexico, showcased remarkable devotion to her role being transformative and reflecting absolute emotional vulnerability. Their most notable work transpired while defining conflict amidst their characters and moving toward a shared resilience. There is a notable linguistic barrier between Morse and Bejarano, which they cleverly used as an opportunity to establish a connection that brought their characters closer. It was captivating and felt deeply connected throughout every scene.

The title, Broken Land, perfectly fits the description of anyone who isolates themselves in desolation after a traumatic experience. This profoundly impactful film has a deeply humanistic narrative that focuses heavily on human worth, empathy, and establishing a natural connection. I believe this film is award-worthy for its original cinematography and outstanding performances.

Broken Land is available on video on demand (VOD) starting June 12, 2026.

Watch my interview with Director Joseph T. Walker and distinguished actor David Morse.