Author Archives: Jaron Chen

What happened with Nickelback?

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Hate to Love: Nickelback is a documentary that takes us on an intimate journey through the story of Nickelback, the Canadian rock band that became a household name in the 2000s. From their humble beginnings in Hanna, Canada, to their massive success, this film reveals how they made it big, the struggles they faced, and the surprising love-hate relationship with their fame.

We start by seeing Nickelback’s rise to rock stardom. They were everywhere—on the radio, in arenas, and dominating the charts. But with all that success came a wave of hatred. Despite selling millions of records, they became the target of jokes and criticism. The documentary asks, “Why were they so hated?” It shows us that while their music was formulaic, so was much of the music at the time, and their success was a sign they were doing something right.

This film takes us back to where it all started. We hear about the early days of Nickelback when Chad and Mike Kroeger formed the band with their friends in their hometown. The story isn’t just about the music—it’s about the bond they shared as brothers and bandmates, the sacrifices they made, and the challenges they faced. We get to know the members more personally, learning about their families, their dreams, and their determination to make it big—even when they were playing in front of just a handful of people.

As we follow their journey, the documentary gives us a glimpse of the band’s inner struggles. Despite their success, they were often misunderstood and criticized. But what’s striking is how they handled it—by sticking together as a family, supporting each other through the highs and lows. Chad, in particular, is shown as a leader who takes his role seriously, always making sure the band stays together, no matter what.

There are also heartwarming moments, like when we see the band’s parents speak about their unconditional love and support. This film is full of personal stories that show the human side of the band, making it clear that they are just regular guys who happen to be in one of the biggest rock bands in the world.

By the end of the film, we feel like we know Nickelback, not just as a band, but as people. It’s a story of resilience, family, and the unexpected twists of fame. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be in a band that everyone loves to hate, this documentary gives you a real and honest look at it. For fans and newcomers alike, Hate to Love: Nickelback is a story worth watching.

Red Rooms: Unmasking the Dark Side of Human Nature

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Time for some thriller movies! Although Red Rooms is a movie from last year, it’s still worth watching. Plus, it was produced in Canada!

Red Rooms is a dark and intense movie from Quebec, directed by Pascal Plante, that follows a woman named Kelly-Anne (Juliette Gariépy) who becomes obsessed with a serial killer’s trial. The film doesn’t try to explain why Kelly-Anne is so interested in the case, and her reasons stay mysterious and unsettling throughout the story. Instead of offering simple answers, the movie lets her strange behavior speak for itself.

The film reaches a shocking moment when Kelly-Anne shows up at the courthouse one day dressed like one of the serial killer’s 13-year-old victims, complete with a schoolgirl uniform and a retainer. She looks almost exactly like the girl, and when the killer, Ludovic Chevalier (Maxwell McCabe-Lokos), sees her in the courtroom, he waves. Kelly-Anne smiles back. The scene is disturbing, making it clear that her interest in the case goes beyond just curiosity.

Kelly Anne is a smart and quiet person. She lives alone in a high-rise apartment, plays poker online to make money, and models jewelry occasionally. But unlike many characters we know, she isn’t afraid to dive deep into the darkest parts of the internet. She hacks into accounts and even breaks into a dead girl’s house, taking photos of herself in the girl’s bedroom. Her lack of morals makes her stand out, and she goes far beyond what most people would ever do.

At first, we might think Kelly-Anne is one of those people who have a strange attraction to killers, like the women who follow Ludovic’s trial. Another character, Clementine (Laurie Babin), seems to be one of those “groupies” who believes Ludovic is innocent. But Kelly-Anne is much colder and more distant, and her lack of emotion makes her behavior even more disturbing.

The movie shows us a lot of close-up shots of Kelly-Anne’s face, where we can see her controlled emotions. She never shows us exactly what she’s feeling, which keeps us guessing. The film’s gray and cold colors match her emotional distance, and the intense music makes the atmosphere even more uncomfortable.

The filmmakers don’t show too much violence but instead let our imaginations fill in the blanks. We hear about Ludovic’s “red rooms” where he tortured and killed people, but we don’t see the gruesome details. This makes the film even scarier, as we are left to imagine the worst. In the end, the film leaves us with questions, but it successfully shows the dangerous attraction people can have to dark and violent things.

Swan Song: The Hidden Struggles Behind Ballet’s Elegance

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Do you ever watch a ballet performance? Although the dancers on stage perform with such beauty and elegance, many people understand that ballet dancers actually spend a long time training, and the entire path is really painful. In Swan Song, it will introduce you to the mysteries behind the stage.

Swan Song is a documentary that takes us behind the scenes of a beautiful ballet production led by one of Canada’s most famous ballerinas, Karen Kain. It’s her final act as the artistic director of the National Ballet of Canada, and the story unfolds like the delicate process of a flower blooming, filled with both beauty and struggle.

Karen Kain, once a celebrated dancer in Swan Lake, is now directing a new version of the ballet for the first time. This is a big moment for her, but it doesn’t come easy. Just as the seasons sometimes change unexpectedly, the global pandemic delays the premiere of the ballet for two years. But Kain’s passion and dedication remain unshaken, like a tree standing strong in the storm. Even though it’s her first time directing, she’s determined to create something that moves people.

Throughout the film, we meet the dancers, each one with their own story to tell. Shaelynn Estrada, a young dancer from Texas, shares her struggles and doubts, reminding us that even the brightest stars have moments of uncertainty. Meanwhile, Jurgita Dronina faces a physical injury that threatens her ability to perform, but her strength and determination are like the deep roots of a tree, holding her steady through the toughest times.

The film’s cinematographers capture the small, intimate moments that often go unnoticed, the quick touch of a hand, the focus in a dancer’s eyes, the silent efforts of the backstage crew. These moments remind us that ballet, like nature, isn’t just about the grand performance; it’s about the quiet work that makes it all possible. From the wig master to the costume designer, every person plays a part in making the performance come to life.

Swan Song isn’t just a documentary about ballet. It’s a reflection on time, change, and legacy. It shows us the beauty of the process, not just the finished product. As Karen Kain’s last ballet performance begins, we’re reminded that endings are just a part of a bigger story. Every movement, whether on stage or behind the scenes, has its own special beauty. It’s a swan song that carries the hope of new beginnings

500 Days in the Wild: Exploring the Most Beautiful Views in Canada.

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Watched too many movies of the same genre? Here’s one that will make you experience the beauty and wildness of the natural environment: 500 Days in the Wild.

500 Days in the Wild is a documentary that takes us on a long journey across Canada with filmmaker Dianne Whelan. She spent over six years, not just 500 days, walking, hiking, and paddling on the Trans Canada Trail, which stretches for 24,000 kilometers. Her journey began in 2015, and she became the first person ever to travel the entire trail, from Newfoundland to the Northwest Territories, finally finishing in B.C.

We join Dianne on this amazing adventure as she faces many challenges. The film shows her dealing with harsh weather, cold winters, rough storms, and sometimes broken equipment. She thought it would only take about a year to finish, but the reality was much tougher. Even though the trail seemed endless at times, she learned a lot about survival, nature, and most importantly, connection. Dianne explains that her journey wasn’t just about traveling through Canada; it was about connecting with the land, the water, and the people along the way. We see how the people she meets become a big part of her journey, reminding us that no one is truly alone, even in the wild.

As we watch Dianne, we also see how she works hard to make the film. At first, she was alone, filming herself, but as the project grew, she started working with other filmmakers and friends. She even brought in people like Ann Verrall, who helped her for several years, meeting her on the trail to work on the film. The journey wasn’t just physical; it was a learning experience about teamwork and the importance of asking for help when needed.

Throughout the film, Dianne shares meaningful moments with Indigenous communities who teach her the importance of respecting nature. She carries a special eagle feather given to her by a healer, and this becomes a symbol of her connection to the earth. We also see how, over time, Dianne learns that it’s okay to ask for help. The film shows us that even though she spent a lot of time alone, she was never truly isolated. In the end, her friend Louisa joins her for the final stretch of the journey, and together they share a powerful moment of friendship and love.

500 Days in the Wild is not just about surviving the wilderness, it’s about discovering the strength of connection, both to nature and to the people around us. It’s a story that reminds us all that we are never truly alone.

One Summer(2024): Exploring People’s Connections

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If you want to watch a story that is relaxing and warm, maybe One Summer(2024) will be a good choice for you. There are no intense action scenes in it, just a story that connects people together, much like how we are connected with the people around us. So, what is it about?

One Summer is directed by Louise Archambault, is a heartwarming story about people who have been forgotten by society and the connection they form with each other. The film centers on Father Marc Côté, a priest who isn’t like most. Instead of focusing on traditional church duties, Marc runs a small parish that serves as a refuge for people in need—many of whom are homeless or struggling with mental health issues.

The story begins when Marc inherits a summer home in Sainte-Blandine-sur-Mer, a quiet town where he grew up. The house was left to him by a family friend who considered Marc the son he never had. Marc decides to share his good fortune by inviting a group from his parish to spend time at the house, hoping the peaceful setting will help them heal.

The group of people Marc brings with him is diverse, each facing their own challenges. There’s Soeur Monique, the no-nonsense nun; Angel and Molo, a couple caring for Molo’s elderly mother; Sam, a war veteran struggling with PTSD; Miali and Sébast, a young couple who are unsure about having children; Madame Cécile, an elderly woman who quietly collects small things; and Maire Jean-Pierre Genin, a quirky mayor who offers questionable advice to Julien, a Congolese asylum seeker worried about his future in Canada.

As the group settles into the house, we see tensions rise. Some townspeople don’t want them there, while others offer charity. Despite the differences, the group slowly begins to connect with one another. They share stories, laugh, and find comfort in each other’s company.

Archambault takes care to show each character as a full person, not just a symbol of poverty or mental illness. We see their complexities and struggles, and through their time together, they start to heal. The film’s cinematography captures the beauty of the town and the peacefulness of the summer retreat.

Overall, One Summer is a simple yet powerful reminder of how important human connection is. It shows that no matter our backgrounds or struggles, we all need a sense of belonging and understanding. The film touches on the strength of community and the hope that can come from just being there for each other.

Monkey Man- An Indian-Style John Wick?

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If you are a Big John Wick fan, I think Monkey Man should be on your “watch later” list too. This movie is actually produced in Canada, and it basically feels like an India-style John Wick! Let’s dive into the story together, and this one is recommended to see the original film to enjoy those action scenes and ignite your excitement!

From the very start, Monkey Man pulls us into a world of grit and determination. We meet Kid, a fighter who steps into underground rings wearing a gorilla mask, taking punches night after night for cash. The fight scenes are raw and brutal, but it’s not just about the blows—there’s something deeper driving him. As we watch, it’s clear this isn’t just a story about fighting; it’s about survival.

Kid’s life takes a turn when he lands a job at an exclusive club, a place filled with the city’s most powerful and corrupt leaders. Slowly, we uncover his real mission: revenge. Through flashbacks, we learn how his life was destroyed, and with every step he takes, we’re drawn deeper into his journey. The tension builds as Kid gets closer to the people who wronged him, and we can’t help but hold our breath, waiting to see what happens next.

The action in Monkey Man is something else. The fights are intense, bloody, and gripping—each one feels raw and unpredictable. The way the camera moves makes it feel like we’re right there with him, dodging punches and feeling the weight of every hit. It’s not polished or pretty—it’s real, and that’s what makes it so exciting.

But the movie isn’t just about fights. It’s inspired by the legend of Hanuman, a Hindu deity, and Dev Patel weaves mythology and deeper themes into the story. He uses the film to touch on politics, corruption, and survival in a way that feels meaningful without being overwhelming. There’s a lot going on, but it all connects back to Kid’s journey.

Sure, some moments feel a bit rushed, and Patel packs a lot into the story, but that’s part of its charm. You can feel his passion in every scene—this is a movie he poured his heart into, and it shows.

By the end, Monkey Man leaves us with more than just thrilling action—it’s a story of resilience, revenge, and fighting back against the odds. It’s raw, powerful, and impossible to forget.

The Movie Man – The Film Keeper In a Small Town

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I believe almost every child in our generation had a period when they would always go to the DVD shop to find a movie to watch. Unlike now, when we can almost find every movie or TV show we want on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and others. But what about those small cinemas? Does anyone still go there to watch old movies? I’m not quite sure about that, but in The Movie Man, the film takes us inside the mystery of small cinemas and the challenges of running one. Let’s find out !!!

In the quiet town of Kinmount, Ontario, Keith Stata has spent decades keeping the magic of movies alive. His Highlands Cinemas isn’t just a theater it’s a time capsule, a museum, and a hub of memories for anyone who steps through its doors. Matt Finlin’s documentary The Movie Man beautifully captures Keith’s story, his passion for film, and his fight to preserve a vanishing tradition.

Keith’s journey began with a single screen, meant to entertain a small town of 300 people. But he always dreamed bigger. Over the years, Highlands Cinemas expanded to five screens and became home to a unique movie museum. The hallways are lined with vintage projectors and memorabilia, turning every visit into a trip through cinema history. It’s a place where movie magic truly comes alive.

However, keeping a theater like this running hasn’t been easy. The pandemic hit small businesses hard, and Keith’s cinema was no exception. With audiences staying home and modern challenges like digital technology and streaming taking over, Keith found himself in a constant battle to keep the lights on.

But Keith is more than just a businessman—he’s a storyteller. He believes in the power of movies to bring people together, creating memories that last a lifetime. For him, cinema is about more than entertainment; it’s about community. His love for movies shines in every detail, from his carefully curated popcorn recipe to the stories behind his antique projectors.

Highlands Cinemas isn’t just about movies, it’s about quirks that make it unforgettable. Forty five cats roam the grounds in wire tunnels, wild animals stop by for leftover popcorn, and every corner of the cinema feels like a personal touch from Keith.

As The Movie Man follows Keith’s efforts to reopen after the pandemic, the film captures the heart of what makes cinema special. The documentary is funny, touching, and a little bittersweet. It’s a tribute to people like Keith, who keep the magic of the big screen alive despite the odds.

In the end, The Movie Man isn’t just about one man or one theater—it’s a reminder of why we love movies. It’s about the joy of sharing stories, the comfort of community, and the memories we carry long after the credits roll.

Mother Father Sister Brother Frank: A Dark Comedy Worth Watching This Year

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Are you looking for a movie that’s hilariously chaotic and a little horrifying? Mother Father Sister Brother Frank is a wild ride you won’t want to miss.

This 2024 Canadian dark comedy, written and directed by Caden Douglas, dives headfirst into family dysfunction with equal parts humor, heart, and gore. It’s the perfect blend of laughs and shocks, wrapped in a story that’s as unpredictable as it is entertaining.

The movie starts with Joy Jennings, a mom determined to have the perfect Sunday family dinner. But in her household, that’s easier said than done. Joy and her husband Jerry (Enrico Colantoni) are sitting on some massive secrets they plan to reveal to their adult children, Jolene (Melanie Leishman) and Jim (Iain Stewart). Meanwhile, both siblings are dealing with their own personal messes they’re not ready to share. Just when things are teetering on the edge of awkward, Jerry’s troublesome brother Frank (Juan Chioran) crashes the gathering uninvited. Frank doesn’t just bring bad vibes—he comes armed with shocking news that throws the evening completely off the rails.

As the night spirals into chaos, Mother Father Sister Brother Frank keeps you on the edge of your seat with its clever writing and razor-sharp humor. Douglas masterfully balances genres, blending dark comedy with family drama, suspense, and even horror. The film is packed with twists and turns, each revelation more outrageous than the last. And yes, there’s gore—plenty of it. The practical effects are impressive, but if you’re squeamish, you might want to cover your eyes during a few key moments.

What really makes this movie shine is its cast. Enrico Colantoni brings depth and relatability to Jerry, while Melanie Leishman and Iain Stewart capture the perfect mix of sibling rivalry and camaraderie. Juan Chioran steals the show as the unpredictable and unapologetically messy Frank, keeping the audience guessing—and laughing—every time he’s on screen. Izad Etemadi, as Jim’s husband Pete, adds a heartwarming touch to the chaos.

Mother Father Sister Brother Frank is a bloody, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt look at family and the secrets that bind (and sometimes break) us. If you’re a fan of dark comedies with plenty of twists, this film is a must-watch. Just be warned: you’ll laugh, cringe, and maybe even gag but you won’t look away.

Late Bloomer: Breaking Stereotypes in Comedy

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tv seriesJasmeet Raina, better known as Jus Reign from his YouTube days, debuted his new show Late Bloomer on Crave TV in this January. For those who enjoyed his comedy on YouTube, this show will feel familiar but with a more layered approach. If you didn’t like his style back then, this show might not win you over either.

Late Bloomer dives deeper into his personal life, following the journey of Jasmeet, a young Sikh guy who drops out of med school to become an online influencer. The show highlights his struggles of balancing his growing fame with the expectations of his family and community, and making online content becomes a way for him to cope with this tension.

In the first episode, Jasmeet takes some risky nude photos for a girl he meets at a club, but when his laptop is stolen, he spends the entire episode trying to get it back before the pictures are leaked. The story takes a turn when Jasmeet attends a Gurpurbh celebration at the Gurdwara, where he casually jokes about the Gurus and the number of Gurpubhs. These jokes might feel disrespectful to some, especially if you’re not familiar with Sikh culture. For those who are, the casual approach to these topics could be seen as inappropriate or too casual.

As the show progresses, Jasmeet faces criticism from Babu, another YouTuber who plays a bold Sikh character, warning him not to embarrass the community with his content. This leads to a tense moment where Jasmeet imagines his nude photos being leaked and the community coming after him. The scene is a clear reference to the real-life controversies Jus Reign faced, specifically a viral video that caused a stir during his YouTube career. It feels like Jasmeet is using this show to address the criticisms he’s received and set the tone for the kind of humor people can expect.

Late Bloomer is a show that will resonate with those who are familiar with Jus Reign’s comedic style, but it’s not without controversy. It tackles themes of cultural identity, family expectations, and finding a balance between personal and public life. While it offers a fresh perspective on Sikh representation, it’s aimed at a specific audience, particularly second-generation immigrants. The humor can be hit or miss, and the show’s casual approach to certain cultural topics may not sit well with everyone. But for those who are open to it, Late Bloomer is a fun, well-written comedy that could open the door for more stories from this community. Just be aware—this is definitely not a show to watch around your parents!

Wild Cards: The CW’s Fresh Start?

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If you’ve been wondering what the new CW is going to look like, here’s the answer for you. Their first original show under the revamped network is Wild Cards, and it’s premiering on January 17 2024. This series brings a fresh mix of crime-solving and charm, and it’s setting the stage for a new era for the network.

The show stars Vanessa Morgan, who you might recognize from Riverdale. This time, she plays Max, a witty con artist who gets caught and is forced to team up with Cole Ellis, a disgruntled cop played by Giacomo Gianniotti from Grey’s Anatomy. They solve crimes together as part of Max’s probation, and what really makes the show stand out is the chemistry between these two. Max is full of energy, diving into different personas to crack cases, while Cole is more serious, trying to earn his way back to a desk after a demotion. It’s that odd couple dynamic that makes Wild Cards so engaging, even though the mysteries they solve can feel pretty predictable.

What I really love about Wild Cards is that it taps into that classic crime show vibe, one that’s easy to watch and doesn’t require too much mental energy. If you’re a fan of shows like Psych or White Collar, you’ll probably enjoy this one. The mysteries may not be the most groundbreaking, but the show is just plain fun, especially with Max’s ability to keep things light and entertaining.

That said, it’s not perfect. Some of the writing feels a bit cheesy, and there are a few moments that might make you roll your eyes. Even the guest stars, like 90210’s Jason Priestly, don’t quite leave the impact you might expect. But Vanessa Morgan’s performance really shines through, and she makes Wild Cards an easy, enjoyable watch for anyone who just wants to unwind.

While Wild Cards might not have the same wild energy as Riverdale, it’s a solid start for the new CW. If you miss those simpler, feel-good crime shows, this might be exactly what you’ve been looking for. It’s a nice, grounded direction for the network, and I’m excited to see where it goes from here.