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The Post is a Modern Classic

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Martin Scorsese says that each film usually has a single frame that in visual terms defines and encapsulates the film. Think of George Bailey, in Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life, clutching his wife and children beside the Christmas tree, gratefully looking up to heaven to congratulate the angel Clarence on getting his wings. Scorsese argued that these were not shots that the filmmakers mindfully planned as the definitive image, but rather the image that they and the audience discovered as the tell-tale sign.

NOR_D30_071017_204253_204322_R_COMP – Tom Hanks (as Ben Bradlee) and Meryl Streep (as Kay Graham) star in Twentieth Century Fox’s THE POST. Photo Credit: Niko Tavernise.

Or think of the Norman Rockwell painting of the little African-American girl being led by the Federal Marshals past the hateful graffiti into the desegregated school. It is a work that nails a moment in history, and in doing so signifies both what happened and how it is to be seen. It also signifies, as time passes and new perspectives and new voices arise, what other ways the scene can be viewed.

All this brings us to a shot in Steven Spielberg’s newest film, The Post, a fictionalized retelling of the publication of the Pentagon Papers, the top secret report leaked by Daniel Ellsberg revealing decades of lies concerning involvement in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, told to the American people by several administrations.

The shot is of Katherine Graham (Meryl Streep), the owner of the Washington Post, walking down the steps of the Supreme Court Building. While the reporters throw questions to the owner of the New York Times, who were the first to published the Papers, Graham silently descends pass a group of young women who fawningly eye her, this icon of a woman in power. Add John Williams’ lush strings and voila! A tableau. A moment.

NOR_D00_052317_7961_R – Meryl Streep, Director Steven Spielberg, and Tom Hanks on the set of THE POST. Photo Credit: Niko Tavernise.

It’s classic Spielberg…committed, heartfelt, sincere, and obvious. Is obviousness a fault? If it is then much of Spielberg’s early career has to be reevaluated, for he built a career, as did his hero, Frank Capra, before him, on playing straight to the heart. The Post acts as a bridging film, combining the earnest qualities of his early films with the darker, more mature style and subject matter of his later years.

With nuanced and solid performances from his stars (Streep as Graham and Tom Hanks as editor Ben Bradlee), as well as down the line excellence in the supporting cast, the film is engaging, well paced, and smart. This is Hollywood doing what it does best.

It is only in the last third, when Spielberg and his writers, Elizabeth Hannah and Josh Singer(Spotlight), start drawing the parallels to our current historical moment, that the heavier hand begins to be applied. Yet, if they’re going to go there, can they afford to be subtle? Is ours a moment of measurable subtly? After all, what’s at stake, the filmmakers seem to be arguing, is the 1st Amendment and Freedom of the Press. For in this film, the giants battling are not the left and right, the Democrats and the Republicans, but the Press and Power. And the gospel goes that a combative Press is the People, our right to know, our right to not be lied to and manipulated. (Cue the John Williams music, please)

NOR_D10_061217_0738_0732_R2_COMP – L-R: Howard Simons (David Cross), Frederick “Fritz” Beebe (Tracy Letts), Ben Bradlee (Tom Hanks), Kay Graham (Meryl Streep), Arthur Parsons (Bradley Whitford), Chalmers Roberts (Philip Casnoff), Paul Ignatius (Brent Langdon), Meg Greenfield (Carrie Coon, seated) and other members of The Washington Post in Twentieth Century Fox’s THE POST. Photo Credit: Niko Tavernise.

Overall, The Post is a strong film, a muscular statement for our time, but will people who believe that the Press is phony and corrupt buy in, either to the premise, the facts, the drama, or at the box office? Will the story and the principles embedded in the historical narrative be overshadowed by the tribal beliefs of our moment? Do we agree with Supreme Court Justice Black when he wrote in the Pentagon Papers decision, 
“Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government.”

The Post is betting that you will agree. It’s also betting that the everyman appeal of Tom Hanks will make the pill easier to swallow. It’s also hoping that Spielberg is back in his Frank Capra/Norman Rockwell groove; once again being America’s most beloved entertainer.

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Preview: War 2 – NTR Jr. and Hrithik Roshan Collide in an Action Extravaganza This July

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The stage is set for one of the most anticipated cinematic showdowns of 2025 as War 2 unites Hrithik Roshan and NTR Jr. in a high-octane spy thriller. Releasing in July 2025, this sequel to the 2019 blockbuster War promises to be a game-changer for Indian action cinema, combining heart-stopping stunts, gripping drama, and unparalleled star power.

Hrithik Roshan reprises his iconic role as Kabir, the brilliant and unrelenting intelligence officer. Opposite him, NTR Jr. delivers another powerhouse performance following his success in RRR and the recently released Devara. NTR Jr.’s portrayal in Devara, a gritty and emotionally charged action-drama, has already cemented his status as one of the most versatile stars of Indian cinema. His role in War 2 is rumored to bring an intense, enigmatic energy that will complement and challenge Hrithik’s suave and strategic Kabir.

Directed by Ayan Mukerji (Brahmāstra, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), War 2 is a pivotal entry in YRF’s expanding spy universe, which includes blockbusters like Pathaan and Tiger Zinda Hai. Mukerji’s direction is set to deliver a perfect blend of jaw-dropping action sequences, emotional depth, and a storyline that interconnects the spy universe’s key players.

The combination of Hrithik Roshan’s finesse and NTR Jr.’s raw intensity promises fireworks on the big screen. Both actors have proven their mettle in action-packed roles, and their pairing is already creating a buzz among fans worldwide. The film’s international locales, intricate espionage plot, and adrenaline-pumping action set pieces ensure that War 2 will be nothing short of a visual spectacle.

Having already conquered audiences with his portrayal in Devara, where he showcased his commanding presence and action chops, NTR Jr. brings fresh excitement to War 2. His collaboration with Hrithik Roshan is a casting masterstroke that raises the stakes for this ambitious sequel.

Mark your calendars—July 2025 will be an unforgettable month for Indian cinema as War 2 takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride of action, intrigue, and star-studded brilliance.

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Solo Leveling: Could We Be Getting Five Seasons and a Live-Action Movie?

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The anime adaptation of Solo Leveling has already created a massive buzz among fans of the popular webtoon and light novel series. Since its premiere announcement, the hype around the story of Sung Jin-Woo’s rise from the weakest hunter to the world’s mightiest has been palpable. Now, rumors swirling around the anime industry suggest that not only will the series extend over five seasons but it could also lead to a live-action movie adaptation. Could these rumors hold weight? Let’s break it down.

When Solo Leveling was confirmed as an anime adaptation, it was no surprise that expectations skyrocketed. The original story, written by Chugong and illustrated by the late DUBU, captivated millions with its breathtaking battles, compelling character arcs, and immersive world-building. The anime is being handled by A-1 Pictures, known for stunning productions like Sword Art Online and Blue Exorcist, which only adds to the excitement.

Given the vast amount of material in the source material, a five-season roadmap seems plausible. The light novel spans 270 chapters, and the webtoon is equally rich with detailed arcs. A five-season structure would allow the story to breathe, delivering each arc with precision instead of rushing through Sung Jin-Woo’s epic evolution.

The rumor mill isn’t just limited to multiple anime seasons. Whispers of a live-action movie have also captured fans’ imaginations. Hollywood’s growing interest in anime adaptations (One Piece, anyone?) combined with Solo Leveling’s global fanbase makes the possibility of a movie adaptation realistic.

Some speculate that the live-action adaptation would focus on the final arcs of the story or possibly a standalone tale set in the Solo Leveling universe. While anime-to-live-action transitions are often met with skepticism, the success of recent projects (Alita: Battle Angel and Netflix’s One Piece) suggests that studios are finally learning how to respect the source material.

Adapting a visually stunning and fast-paced story like Solo Leveling into live action would be no small feat. The series’ supernatural battles, intricate dungeon designs, and fantastical creatures would require top-tier CGI and production quality to match fan expectations. Casting would also be a critical factor—who could embody Sung Jin-Woo’s quiet intensity or Cha Hae-In’s graceful strength?

Furthermore, the cultural specificity of Solo Leveling, rooted in Korean mythology and history, would need to be handled with care. Fans are understandably wary of “Hollywood-ization,” which has often led to diluted or overly Westernized interpretations of beloved stories.

The possibility of a five-season anime adaptation has been met with widespread excitement. Many fans believe that extending the anime over multiple seasons would allow for a more faithful retelling of the story, capturing every thrilling fight and emotional moment. The potential for a live-action movie, however, has sparked mixed reactions. While some are optimistic about the idea of seeing Jin-Woo in a new medium, others worry about how the story’s essence could translate to live action.

While nothing official has been confirmed, the idea of Solo Leveling receiving five seasons and a live-action movie speaks to the enduring popularity of the franchise. Whether these rumors turn out to be true or simply fan speculation, one thing is certain: Solo Leveling is set to become one of the biggest anime adaptations in recent memory.

As we await more news, one thing’s for sure—this is just the beginning of Solo Leveling’s rise to global dominance. Fans, stay tuned. You won’t want to miss what comes next.

What do you think about the possibility of a live-action Solo Leveling movie? Do you believe the anime can deliver on its five-season promise? Let us know in the comments!

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Jurassic World Rebirth Official Trailer

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