Inspirational new documentary Janey Makes A Play premieres in LA next week (17th June at Arena Cinemas Hollywood) then opens wider a week later. Janey, from director Jared Callahan, follows 90-year old Janey (Callahan’s own grandmother) as she writes and directs her latest original, socially relevant community theatre production for the small town in which she lives. Battling through the current recession, the colorful troupe of faithful townspeople cope with their own struggles by telling their story on stage.
How did you get involved in the film?
Janey is my grandmother. I was home for Christmas in 2011 and we were sitting outside talking before dinner. She started this theatre troupe when she was 80-years-old. Janey was telling me all about the play they had just performed. I asked, “Do you have any ideas for the next play?” Of course she did! Janey rattled off all these pieces of an incredible idea explaining how hard the recession had been on the farmers and folks from small towns. The villain was a slick businessman from the big city. Instantly I knew we had to film that play, because she was telling the story of her small town on stage. I typed the idea into my phone, and eight months later I was in their community theatre building filming auditions.
How did you pitch it initially?
I was at Sundance in 2012 to support a friend’s project. At night, fueled by the energy of the festival, I stayed up late and wrote out the treatment and funding proposal for this feature film. I then asked my parents if it would be appropriate to pursue the project. Then asked Janey, and then met with their community theatre troupe’s creative leadership panel. Once they gave me the green light we were good to go.
Do you recall Janey’s reaction when you told her you were going to do a movie on her?
Honestly, I don’t think any of them really knew what they were all getting into. Janey especially. She loves movies, but someone asking to do a movie about you? I just don’t think it clicked. When we finished filming some of the people asked if they could see the film in a month! I responded kindly that it might take up to two years. Once I cut a teaser and posted it online I think they began to realize the scope of the project.
Was she nervous? Or by the other token, did she turn it up for the cameras?
Neither. I think you get to a certain age where you are just going to be you regardless of the surroundings. Janey certainly never modified her actions in any way. I think it helped that we filmed on DSLR cameras. The subjects never totally forgot that we were filming, but they quickly became incredibly comfortable with us being around. Subconsciously having a couple of “photo cameras” around is wildly different than lugging big film camera. This film couldn’t have been made ten years ago. It’s a testament to the development of technology and our increased comfort level with it always being around.
What would you like to say to the readers on why they should come check out Janey Makes a Play?
This is a film about a small community doing the best with what they have. It will make you laugh and maybe tear up. Janey is inspirational, but not in a cheesy way. The best part is, the troupe doesn’t even see how amazing they are! They are real people doing extraordinary things and not even realizing it. This film provides a wonderful breath of fresh air amongst watching things explode in the summer blockbuster films.
I hope the film challenges you to think about the ways you are participating in your community. If this 90-year-old woman still has gifts to offer, what about you? I believe we are subtly accepting ageism in the United States, where we say, “Oh you’re retired, go drive around in an RV and then quietly die in a group home.” That sounds harsh, but it’s true. Janey’s life fights back against that. She is learning and starting new things in her 80s and 90s. What’s our excuse?
Though you’ve a background as a pastor you seem keen to pursue filmmaking. Can you do both?
Both ministry and filmmaking are about telling important stories and helping people see a broader view of reality. When people say “Christian filmmaker” they often picture someone working in a particular genre. I am a person of faith who is also a filmmaker, so I have a particular perspective that informs my work but I’m not aiming to make movies exclusively for that audience. In ministry and in filmmaking, I want to ask good questions and tell honest stories so people can see a bigger perspective and participate in lives of reconciliation, justice, and mercy.
I truly value all people, their journeys, and the things they believe about the world and our purpose here. I got a Masters of Spiritual Formation because I just wanted to know more about the human journey. In the end, I know my role on this earth is to love people so radically that they come to know themselves as fully loved and can live into that reality. It’s through this lens that I can tell stories as objectively as possible, not with the aim to convince you of any particular belief. My projects often serve as a way for me to grow as a person, and if watching that process on screen edifies the viewer, then it’s a bonus.
Ryan Reynolds has become one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, known for his quick wit, charm, and ability to effortlessly switch between comedy, action, and heartfelt moments. With a career spanning multiple genres, Reynolds has delivered some truly iconic performances. Here’s a rundown of the top five Ryan Reynolds movies that every fan should watch, filled with SEO keywords to help you discover them easily.
1. Deadpool (2016)
Ryan Reynolds found his career-defining role as the wise-cracking antihero Deadpool, and the movie became a game-changer for superhero films. With its R-rated humor, brutal action sequences, and Reynolds’ perfectly timed one-liners, Deadpool is a must-watch for fans of comic book movies. Reynolds’ portrayal of Wade Wilson/Deadpool is the perfect blend of his trademark sarcasm and heart, making it one of his most beloved performances.
2. The Proposal (2009)
In this romantic comedy, Ryan Reynolds stars alongside Sandra Bullock as Andrew Paxton, an assistant who agrees to a fake engagement with his demanding boss to help her avoid deportation. The Proposal showcases Reynolds’ comedic timing, and his chemistry with Bullock elevates the film to one of the best romantic comedies of the 2000s. Reynolds’ charm and humor make it a standout in his filmography, and fans of rom-coms shouldn’t miss it.
3. Free Guy (2021)
In Free Guy, Reynolds plays Guy, a non-playable character (NPC) in a video game who gains self-awareness and decides to take control of his own destiny. The film combines action, comedy, and a surprisingly heartfelt story about finding your purpose. Reynolds’ performance is both funny and endearing, making Free Guy one of his best films in recent years. Fans of video games, action-comedies, and feel-good films will love it.
4. Buried (2010)
Buried is a tense thriller that features Ryan Reynolds in a solo performance, trapped in a coffin with only a cell phone and lighter. The film is a masterclass in suspense, and Reynolds’ gripping portrayal of a man fighting for his life showcases his dramatic acting chops. Buried is a must-watch for fans who want to see Reynolds in a more serious, intense role.
5. 6 Underground (2019)
In Michael Bay’s action-packed 6 Underground, Reynolds leads a team of vigilantes who fake their own deaths to take down notorious criminals. The film is pure adrenaline, filled with high-octane action sequences and Reynolds’ signature humor. If you’re looking for a fun, explosive action movie with witty banter, 6 Underground is the perfect choice for a thrilling movie night.
Honorable Mentions:
Deadpool 2 (2018): Reynolds continues to shine in this hilarious and action-packed sequel, cementing his role as the ultimate antihero.
Detective Pikachu (2019): Ryan Reynolds voices the adorable Pikachu in this family-friendly adventure, bringing humor and heart to the beloved Pokémon character.
The Hitman’s Bodyguard (2017): An action-comedy where Reynolds teams up with Samuel L. Jackson for a wild, thrilling ride.
Ryan Reynolds’ versatility as an actor shines through in each of these films, whether he’s playing an action hero, a romantic lead, or tackling more serious roles. From Deadpool to Buried, his unique blend of charisma and talent keeps audiences coming back for more. Make sure to add these top five Ryan Reynolds movies to your watchlist!
John C. McGinley has built a career filled with dynamic, memorable performances across film and television. With his sharp comedic timing, intense dramatic prowess, and remarkable versatility, McGinley has earned a loyal fan base. From iconic TV roles to scene-stealing film appearances, this talented actor has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Here’s a look at the top five performances of John C. McGinley that every fan should revisit.
1. Dr. Perry Cox – Scrubs
No list of John C. McGinley’s best roles is complete without mentioning Scrubs and his portrayal of the no-nonsense, cynical, yet oddly lovable Dr. Perry Cox. Over the course of the show’s nine seasons, McGinley brought depth to what could have been a one-dimensional, sarcastic character. His performance fluctuated between gut-wrenching monologues on the realities of the medical profession and rapid-fire insults delivered with razor-sharp precision. Fans loved his dynamic relationship with J.D. (Zach Braff), especially the heartwarming moments that showed Cox’s mentor-like role.
2. Bob Slydell – Office Space
In Mike Judge’s cult classic Office Space (1999), McGinley plays Bob Slydell, one half of “The Bobs,” two management consultants brought in to downsize the company. His dry, deadpan delivery as he calmly discusses firing employees is both hilarious and cringe-worthy. Though McGinley’s screen time is limited, his performance remains one of the most quoted and memorable aspects of the film, contributing to Office Space’s enduring popularity in pop culture.
3. Sergeant O’Neill – Platoon
McGinley’s role as the tough and morally conflicted Sergeant O’Neill in Platoon (1986) earned him critical acclaim. In Oliver Stone’s Oscar-winning Vietnam War film, McGinley stands out among a stellar ensemble cast, including Charlie Sheen and Willem Dafoe. His portrayal of O’Neill, who shifts between opportunism and fear as the war intensifies, is powerful and haunting. This role marked McGinley’s breakout in Hollywood, showcasing his range in serious, dramatic parts.
4. Stanley Miller – Stan Against Evil
In this underrated horror-comedy series, McGinley plays Stanley Miller, a retired small-town sheriff reluctantly pulled back into battling demons after his wife’s death. Stan Against Evil blends humor with supernatural elements, and McGinley’s comedic timing is on full display. His character is gruff and often surly, but the way McGinley balances Stanley’s grumpiness with heartfelt moments of vulnerability makes this performance a standout in his career.
5. FBI Agent Ben Harp – Point Break
In Point Break (1991), McGinley plays the by-the-book FBI Agent Ben Harp, who’s tasked with overseeing the young undercover agent Johnny Utah, played by Keanu Reeves. McGinley’s role is small, but his performance is unforgettable as the humorless, hard-nosed superior who has no patience for Utah’s laid-back, surfer persona. His iconic line “Young, dumb, and full of…” has become a classic in action movie history.
Honorable Mentions:
Dr. Cox’s Real Talk Moments in Scrubs: Some of McGinley’s best scenes come from his character’s vulnerable, often brutally honest speeches. Fans of Scrubs will recognize his mix of humor and emotion, which made Dr. Cox unforgettable.
John C. McGinley in The Rock: His role as Captain Hendrix in The Rock (1996) shows his ability to stand out in action-packed, ensemble casts.
John C. McGinley’s career is a testament to his versatility and talent. Whether playing a grumpy doctor, a slick FBI agent, or a worn-out war veteran, McGinley commands attention every time he’s on screen. His ability to switch between comedy and drama with ease is what sets him apart, and it’s why fans continue to revisit his best performances. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering his work for the first time, these five performances are the perfect way to appreciate the incredible range of John C. McGinley.
The highly anticipated new season of Squid Game is set to deliver even more nail-biting suspense and shocking twists that fans of the global phenomenon have come to love. As the series returns, viewers can expect an escalation in the deadly games, with new challenges that push participants to their physical and psychological limits.
In this season, the stakes are higher than ever as a new group of contestants enters the arena, each with their own desperate reasons for participating. The games are more dangerous, the alliances more fragile, and the betrayals more heartbreaking. With the introduction of new characters and deeper insights into the shadowy organization behind the games, Season 2 promises to expand the *Squid Game* universe in unexpected ways.
The creators have teased that the upcoming challenges will be more complex and terrifying, testing not only the contestants’ physical endurance but also their moral boundaries.
Expect to see returning characters facing new dilemmas, as well as fresh faces whose backstories will tug at viewers’ heartstrings.
The new season is rumored to feature shocking revelations about the origins of the games and the true motivations of the game’s organizers, ensuring that fans remain on the edge of their seats.
Squid Game has captivated audiences with its unique blend of suspense, drama, and social commentary, and Season 2 is poised to take these elements to the next level. Fans can brace themselves for a roller-coaster of emotions as the game continues with even more at stake.
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