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| Rating: About Ratings
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| Opens: 03/14/2025 |
| Running Time: 110 |
| Rated: R |
| Cast: Jack Quaid, Amber Midthunder, Ray Nicholson, Jacob Batalon, Betty Gabriel, and Matt Walsh. |
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| Crew: Directors: Dan Berk and Robert Olsen. Producers: Adam Friedlander, Joby Harold, Julian Rosenberg, and Alan Shearer. Executive Producers: Josh Adler, Paul Barbeau, Lars Jacobson, Matt Schwartz, and Sam Speiser. Screenwriter: Lars Jacobson. Music: Lorne Balfe and Andrew Kawczynski.Cinematographer: Jacques Jouffret. |
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REVIEW: By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
My first real introduction to the immersive 4DX movie experience was a few years ago at CinemaCon, during a promotional demonstration of the innovative technology.
Although the presentation, which featured an action-packed movie, lasted only about 15 minutes, it was still a thrilling and "moving" experience. The seats jolted, tilted, and even sprayed bursts of wind, making every action sequence feel more intense and alive.
However, even that didn't fully prepare me for my recent 4DX press screening of the new movie "Novocaine." This time, the immersion was on a whole new level. The seats not only vibrated with every punch and explosion, but they also moved with the characters as they navigated tense moments, creating a sense of physical presence that was almost like stepping inside the film. I almost needed a seatbelt. The addition of environmental effects--like the sudden cool gusts of air during a tense night scene or the occasional spray of mist--made the experience feel even more visceral and engaging. By the end of the film, I felt like I had experienced the story not just through my eyes, but with my entire body.
The 4DX screening isn't for everyone. In fact, before the movie began, the studio representative went over a list of important instructions, especially for those with disabilities, motion sensitivity, dizziness, and nausea, noting the experience may not be suitable for them. But, for me, "Novocaine" was a blast and it still would have been even without the added motion gimmick.
Directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen ("Significant Other"), "Novocaine" is a clever, quirky, and wildly entertaining romp from screenwriter Lars Jacobson (TV's "Fright Night: The Million Dollar Heist").
"In the movie, Jack Quaid ("Companion" and TV's "The Boys") plays a strait-laced and mild-mannered bank executive in San Diego. He's a good guy but suffers from a rare disorder: congenital insensitivity to pain (CIP). You can hit Nate in the head with a hammer and he wouldn't feel a thing. I suppose there are a few advantages to having CIP, but the condition has really turned Nate into somewhat of an introvert. The poor guy can't even chew solid food for fear he'll bite his tongue off and not even realize it. Consequently, he drinks a lot of smoothies.
Nate also spends most of his free time playing video games with his online friend Roscoe Dixon (Jacob Batalon, "The Wrecking Crew" and TV's "Reginald the Vampire"). Roscoe is something else. He claims to look like Jason Momoa. He doesn't. Roscoe also thinks he's quite the ladies' man. He isn't. Still, he's eager to offer dating advice to Nate since he has a crush on his co-worker, Sherry Margrave (Amber Midthunder, "Prey" and "Opus").
One day, at work, Sherry accidentally spills hot coffee on Nate, but to her surprise, he doesn't flinch--though his hands turn bright red. Naturally, she has no idea why he didn't let out a primal scream, but as they start spending more time together, she discovers a lot about Nate and grows increasingly fond of him.
There is a particularly charming moment when they are dining out, and Sherry insists that Nate try a piece of her pie. After much convincing, with her playfully assuring him that she won't let him 'chew his tongue off,' Nate finally takes a bite--and is utterly floored by what he's been missing.
Nate has a newfound lease on life and is feeling nothing but love. So, when the bank is robbed by a group of armed Santas, led by the mastermind Simon Greenly (Ray Nicholson, "Smile 2"/ "Borderline"), and Sherry is taken hostage, Nate loses it and puts everything on the line to rescue her.
He's no fighter, but he's more than capable of enduring whatever these criminals throw at him. And that's what... |
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Rated: PG-13
Opens: 03/14/2025
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Rated: R
Opens: 03/07/2025
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Rated: PG-13
Opens: 02/28/2025
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Rated: R
Opens: 02/28/2025
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Rated: R
Opens: 02/21/2025
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Rated: PG-13
Opens: 02/14/2025
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OLD SCHOOL VIDEO PICK OF THE MONTH
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Title: MAHOGANY
Year Released: 1975
Running Time: 109
Production Company: Paramount Pictures
Director: Berry Gordy, Tony Richardson and Jack Wormser
Director of Photography: David Watkin
Screenwriter: John Byrum and Toni Amber
Author: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
REVIEW: DIANA ROSS AND BILLY DEE WILLIAMS DAZZLE IN "MAHOGANY"
Do you know where you're going to?
Do you like the things that life is showing you? Where are you going to?
Do you know? Do you get what you're hoping for? When you look behind you, there's no open doors. What are you hoping for? Do you know? "Theme from Mahogany...
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NEW ON DVD
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Title: EYE FOR AN EYE 2: BLIND VENGEANCE
Year Released: 2025
Running Time: 90
Production Company: Well Go USA
Director: Bingjia Liu
Review By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
"AN EYE FOR AN EYE 2: BLIND VENGEANCE"
When it comes to martial arts films, Well Go USA is undeniably at the top of the game. With a track record of releasing exceptional action films such as "100 Yards," "The Flying Swordsman," "The Tai Chi Master," and "Bangkok Dog,” the studio has consistently delivered thrilling cinematic experiences.
Now, the powerhouse production company is back with an explosive new release: "Eye for an Eye 2: Blind Vengeance." This sequel to the global box office sensation "Eye for an Eye: The Blind Swordsman," is brought to life by the talented writer/director Bingjia Liu, whose passion for martial arts and compelling storytelling is evident in every frame.
With Xie Miao ("Ip Man: The Awakening") returning as the blind swordsman Cheng Xiazi, this action-packed continuation follows his character on a heart-pounding journey of vengeance and redemption, as he is forced to confront not only external enemies but also his own inner demons.
In "Eye for an Eye 2: Blind Vengeance," Cheng Xiazi (Miao) is a skilled blind swordsman turned bounty hunter, living a solitary life after the events of the first film.
His life takes a turn when he comes across Zhang Xiaoyu (Yang Enyou, "Lighting Up the Stars"), a young orphan girl whose life has been devastated by the brutal murder of her younger brother at the hands of corrupt city officials. Despite Cheng's reluctance, Zhang, driven by a thirst for revenge, convinces him to help her track down the men responsible for her brother's death, particularly the vicious Li Jiulang (Tao Huang, "Creation of the Gods 1: Kingdom of Storms").
Cheng initially tries to distance himself from the burden of caring for Zhang, insisting that she focus on completing menial tasks around his home in exchange for his protection. But when Zhang goes missing, Cheng is forced to set aside his personal hesitations and embark on a relentless rampage to track her down. As the stakes grow higher, the quiet and reserved swordsman is pushed to unleash his unmatched fighting skills, leaving a trail of blood in his wake as he hunts down anyone who might have information about her whereabouts.
"Eye for an Eye 2: Blind Vengeance" offers a perfect blend of heart-pounding fight sequences and emotional depth. The movie doesn't simply rely on adrenaline-fueled action but also takes time to develop its characters, making the viewer care about their fates. The relationship between Cheng and Zhang adds a layer of complexity, providing the film with a rare emotional backbone that complements the brutal fight scenes.
The action is exhilarating and expertly choreographed, with fight sequences that are both visually stunning and intense, pushing the limits of what fans of martial arts cinema expect. The martial arts choreography is fierce and precise, giving the audience a real sense of the characters' strength and determination. Whether it's Cheng's lightning-fast swordplay or the intricate hand-to-hand combat, each fight sequence is thrilling, displaying the raw physicality and beauty of martial arts in its purest form.
At a brisk 90 minutes, "Eye for an Eye 2: Blind Vengeance" doesn't overstay its welcome, keeping the momentum high throughout its runtime. The pacing is tight, with no unnecessary filler.
In terms of performances, Xie Miao once again proves his prowess as a martial artist and actor, delivering a nuanced portrayal of Cheng Xiazi. His character is a complex blend of stoic strength and vulnerability, making him a compelling protagonist that viewers will root for.
Yang Enyou is equally impressive as Zhang, who learns the cost of revenge. The supporting cast, including Tao Huang as the villainous Li Jiulang, adds the necessary layers of tension and danger to the story ensuring that the stakes feel real and immediate.
"Eye for an Eye 2: Blind Vengeance" is a film that will resonate with fans of martial arts and action films, Whether you're a longtime fan of the genre or a newcomer looking for something fresh, this sequel is a wild ride you won't want to miss.
"Eye for an Eye 2: Blind Vengeance" is currently available on Blu-ray and DVD.
(Highly Recommended).
Check Out This Trailer For "EYE FOR AN EYE 2: BLIND VENGEANCE"
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Title: THE EXORCISM OF SAINT PATRICK
Year Released: 2024
Running Time: 90
Production Company: Cranked Up
Director: Quinn Armstrong
Review By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
"THE EXORCISM OF SAINT PATRICK"
"The Exorcism of Saint Patrick" from director/screenwriter Quinn Armstrong ("Survival Skills"), may not be the most terrifying film you'll see this year, but it certainly offers some ominous moments. It's also the first of the three parts "Fresh Hell" horror series that also includes upcoming On Demand releases such as "Wolves Against The World" (Sept. 3) and "Dead Teenagers" (Sept. 10) and it sets a grim scene of what's to come.
The story centers on Trick (Michael J. Cline), a quirky and troubled teen caught in a turbulent family dynamic. His parents, Kai (Jim Azelvandre, "Obstacle Corpse") and Deb (Lisa Coffy, "Shelby Oaks"), are fervently religious and struggle with the realization that Trick might be gay. Seeing that they can't pray the gayness away, they seek help from Pastor Patrick (Steve Pinder, "Jane Austen's Period Drama"), a controversial figure known for his extreme methods of conversion therapy.
As the exorcism unfolds, Trick is plunged into a harrowing nightmare that transcends traditional spiritual intervention. Some scenes are particularly hard to endure, especially as Pastor Patrick's bullying escalates. The film skillfully intertwines psychological tension with supernatural elements, crafting an unsettling exploration of faith, family, and personal identity.
Despite its occasional pacing issues, "The Exorcism of Saint Patrick" is still a pretty effective low budget thriller that captures an atmosphere of dread, despair and eerieness.
(Recommended).
Editor's Note: "The Exorcism of Saint Patrick" is available On Demand and in select theaters Aug. 27.
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Title: THE OTHER LAURENS
Year Released: 2024
Running Time: 117
Production Company: Yellow Veil Pictures
Director: Claude Schmitz
Review By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
"THE OTHER LAURENS"
Belgian writer/director Claude Schmitz ("Carwash") "The Other Laurens" offers a mildly engaging crime drama with his latest film, "The Other Laurens."
Starring Olivier Rabourdin ("Taken 2" and "Fox Hunt") as private detective Gabriel Laurens (Olivier Rabourdin, "Taken 2" and "Fox Hunt") in a dual role as private detective Gabriel Laurens and his identical twin brother François.
The film dives into Gabriel's tumultuous life. As a specialist in investigating extramarital affairs, Gabriel's personal world is already in disarray with his mother gravely ill and his own emotional turmoil over François's recent death. Adding to his burden is his niece Jade, played with remarkable depth by (a terrific debut by Louise Leroy), who is grappling with the loss of her father.
When Jade requests Gabriel to probe into François's suspicious car accident, he travels to Perpignan, (South of France, near the Spanish border) where François had been living a lavish lifestyle with his beautiful wife Shelby (Kate Moran, "This Is the End"), who is also Jade's stepmother.
Gabriel's arrival in this seemingly idyllic setting quickly unravels a web of intrigue, complicating his investigation and deepening the mystery.
While audiences may not be on the edge of their seats waiting for the next twist in "The Other Laurens," they certainly won’t find themselves dozing off either. The movie brims with a boatload of interesting characters from drug dealers, thugs and biker gangs and other lowlifes that has Gabriel wondering just what his brother was into.
While the array of characters adds intrigue to the story, the plot itself often feels mired in inertia and never quite achieves the level of intensity it aims for, thus making "The Other Laurens" a decent, but just another average crime thriller.
(Recommended).
Editor's Note: "The Other Laurens" is currently available through Video On Demand.
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Title: EXHUMA
Year Released: 2024
Running Time: 135
Production Company: Well Go USA
Director: Jang Jae-Hyun
Review By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
"EXHUMA"
The Korean horror film "Exhuma," directed/written by Jang Jae-Hyun ("Svaha: The Sixth Finger"), delivers a gripping tale of a family ensnared by a malevolent supernatural force.
"Exhuma" isn't just a ghost story—it's a generational curse that haunts the bloodline of a Los Angeles dynasty.
Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, the narrative revolves around the renowned shaman Lee Hwarim (Kim Go-Eun, "Hero") and her apprentice Yoon Bong-gil (Lee Do-hyun, TV's "Sweet Home").
Their mission is to delve into the abyss of the paranormal to unravel the sinister happenings that plague the firstborns of each generation. It's a curse so dark and malignant that it really threatens most anyone in its path.
Assisting them in this spectral quest is mortician Yeong-geun (Yoo Hai-jin, "Dog Days"), whose knowledge of the dead is as deep as the graves he tends, and Kim Sang-deok (Choi Min-sik, TV's "Big Bet"), a feng shui master whose wisdom might be the key to breaking the cycle of terror.
The investigation leads them to a desolate gravesite nestled within sacred grounds. Yet, the unearthly aura surrounding the area foreshadows impending doom or it could be their salvation as they go deeper into the dark secrets buried within. As the tension mounts, each excavation unearths more than mere remains; it unleashes a malevolent curse of unimaginable proportions.
Talk about luring you in.
Director Jang Jae-Hyun masterfully crafts an atmosphere rife with dread, where every moment drips with palpable unease. From the eerie landscapes to the haunting score, "Exhuma" immerses you in a world where terror lurks at every turn. It's a puzzle box of fear, devilishly designed to leave you questioning even the shadows in your room.
With stellar performances from its cast and a plot woven with intricate layers of suspense, "Exhuma" is an excellent horror flick and a testament to the enduring allure of Korean horror cinema.
(Highly Recommended).
Check Out This Trailer For "EXHUMA"
"Exhuma" is currently available on VOD.
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By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs:
"PARAMOUNT PICTURES PRESENTS EARLY ACCESS PREVIEWS FOR "NOVOCAINE"
Paramount Pictures announced a series of national early access screenings for the upcoming film "Novocaine" (Opening March. 14).
Additionally, in a special collaboration, Paramount has partnered with Fantastic Fest to host the film' s first-ever fan screening event. On March 8, at 7 p.m. local time, more than 1,200 theaters across the U.S. and Canada will participate in the "Early Access Adrenaline Rush Preview" of "Novocaine" in advance of its wide release on March 14.
For those seeking an intensified viewing, offering audiences an immersive experience, with synchronized seat motion and effects that place fans directly into the heart of the action, "Feel It In" advance screenings are scheduled for March 12, at 7 p.m. local time. These screenings will be presented exclusively in premium motion formats: 4DX, MX4D and select D-Box at participating locations in advance of the film's national release.
Tickets for the "Early Access Adrenaline Rush Preview," "Feel it In" advance screenings, and general release of "Novocaine" are still available but going fast. To purchase tickets and locate participating theaters, visit novocainemovie.com/seeitfirst. General tickets can also be purchased at novocainemovie.com, through exhibitors' websites and mobile apps, third-party ticketing platforms, and at theater box offices nationwide.
Ticketholders seeing "Novocaine" at the "Feel It In" advance screening will also receive a limited-edition giveaway of an exclusive 14”x20” collector's print created for fans attending this one-night event--while supplies last.
Said Paramount Pictures' President of Domestic Distribution Chris Aronson, "This is a fresh, fun, action-packed original movie and one that is meant to be experienced in a theatre with friends. We're thrilled to give moviegoers multiple early opportunities to see "Novocaine" before its wide release."
WHAT "NOVOCAINE" IS ABOUT:
In "Novocaine," When the girl of his dreams (Amber Midthunder) is kidnapped, everyman Nate (Jack Quaid) turns his inability to feel pain into an unexpected strength in his fight to get her back. The film is written by Lars Jacobson; produced by Drew Simon, Tory Tunnell, Joby Harold, Sam Speiser, Matt Schwartz and Julian Rosenberg; and directed by Dan Berk & Robert Olsen.
"Novocaine" stars Jack Quaid, Amber Midthunder, Ray Nicholson, Betty Gabriel, Matt Walsh, Lou Beatty Jr., Evan Hengst, Conrad Kemp and Jacob Batalon. "Novocaine" opens in theaters on March 14.
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By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs:
THE LIVE-ACTION REIMAGINING OF "HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON" MAKES WORLDWIDE DEBUT AT CINEMACON 2025
Universal Pictures, in collaboration with the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), announced that CinemaCon 2025 will host the worldwide debut of "How to Train Your Dragon," the epic live-action reimagining of the beloved DreamWorks Animation film, written and directed by three-time Oscar nominee and franchise creator Dean DeBlois.
The global exhibition community will be the first to experience this new, action-packed summer event film on April 2, at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, in Las Vegas more than two months before it opens in theaters on June 13.
"How to Train Your Dragon "delivers the perfect blend of blockbuster action, breathtaking visuals and emotional storytelling that defines the ultimate theatrical experience," said Jim Orr, President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution at Universal Pictures. "Dean DeBlois has created a stunning live-action reimagining of his film, which honors his beloved animated classic while soaring to spectacular new heights. We’re thrilled to share this film with our exhibition partners first, as they will be instrumental in bringing this extraordinary adventure to audiences worldwide this summer."
"We are thrilled that Universal Pictures has chosen to showcase this summer blockbuster for the global exhibition community,” added CinemaCon Managing Director, Mitch Neuhauser. "This movie promises to be a hit with movie fans of all ages all around the world. Seeing it in your local theatre will be an amazing experience, and the global exhibition community is excited to help promote it in the days ahead."
Hosted by the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), CinemaCon is the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition and will take place March 31–April 3 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
ABOUT UNIVERSAL PICTURES LIVE-ACTION "HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON:
From three-time Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner Dean DeBlois, the creative visionary behind DreamWorks Animation's acclaimed "How to Train Your Dragon" trilogy, comes a stunning live-action reimagining of the film that launched the beloved franchise.
On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup (Mason Thames) stands apart. The inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his voice role from the animated franchise), Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.
With the fierce and ambitious Astrid (BAFTA nominee Nico Parker; "Dumbo," "The Last of Us") and the village's quirky blacksmith Gobber (Nick Frost; "Snow White and the Huntsman," "Shaun of the Dead") by his side, Hiccup confronts a world torn by fear and misunderstanding. As an ancient threat emerges, endangering both Vikings and dragons, Hiccup's friendship with Toothless becomes the key to forging a new future. Together, they must navigate the delicate path toward peace, soaring beyond the boundaries of their worlds and redefining what it means to be a hero and a leader.
The film also stars Julian Dennison ("Deadpool 2"), Gabriel Howell ("Bodies"), Bronwyn James ("Wicked"), Harry Trevaldwyn ("Smothered"), Ruth Codd ("The Midnight Club"), BAFTA nominee Peter Serafinowicz ("Guardians of the Galaxy") and Murray McArthur ("Game of Thrones").
"How to Train Your Dragon" is written, produced and directed by DeBlois. It is also produced by four-time Oscar nominee Marc Platt ("Wicked," "La La Land") and Emmy winner Adam Siegel ("Drive," "2 Guns").
Inspired by Cressida Cowell's New York Times bestselling book series, DreamWorks Animation's "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise has captivated global audiences, earning four Academy Award nominations and grossing more than $1.6 billion at the global box-office.
Now, through cutting-edge visual effects, DeBlois transforms his beloved animated saga into a breathtaking live-action spectacle, bringing the epic adventures of Hiccup and Toothless to life with jaw-dropping realism as they discover the true meaning of friendship, courage and destiny.
ABOUT CINEMACON:
CinemaCon attracts nearly six thousand motion picture professionals from all facets of the industry--from exhibition and distribution to the equipment and concession areas---all on hand to celebrate the moviegoing experience and the cinema industry.
CinemaCon works with the International Cinema Technology Association (ICTA) and National Association of Concessionaires (NAC) as its trade show partners. The Coca-Cola Company--one of the industry's most highly regarded and respected partners in the world of movies-- is the official presenting sponsor of CinemaCon.
About NATO:
The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 34,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and a worldwide total of over 46,000 screens across 82 countries.
NATO's membership includes the largest cinema chains in the world as well as hundreds of independent theatre owners. Additional information about CinemaCon can be found at www.cinemacon.com.
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By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs:
LUCASFILM CELEBRATES "STAR WARS: REVENGE OF THE SITH" WITH THEATRICAL RE-RELEASE
Lucasfilm announced the return of "Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith" to the big screen on April 25 to celebrate the film's 20th anniversary. The movie will run in U.S. theaters and select international territories for one week only and will be available in several formats, including, for the first time, 4DX which features high-tech motion chairs that sync with over 21 effects, all designed to complement the narrative of the film.
Renowned graphic artist Matt Ferguson created an exciting new poster for the re-release event. "Revenge of the Sith" takes place years after the onset of the Clone Wars, when the noble Jedi Knights lead a massive clone army into a galaxy-wide battle against the Separatists. When the sinister Sith unveil a thousand-year-old plot to rule the galaxy, the Republic crumbles and from its ashes rises the evil Galactic Empire. Jedi Hero Anakin Skywalker is seduced by the dark side of the Force to become the Emperor's new apprentice--Darth Vader. The Jedi are decimated, as Obi-Wan Kenobi and Jedi Master Yoda are forced into hiding.
The film stars Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen, Ian McDiarmid, Frank Oz as Yoda, Jimmy Smits, Peter Mayhew, Ahmed Best, Oliver Ford Davies, Temuera Morrison, Anthony Daniels, Silas Carson, Kenny Baker with Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu and Christopher Lee as Count Dooku. George Lucas wrote and directed the film.
Editor's Note: Information used in this report obtained from Lucas Films.
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