At the heart of this unconventional love story, we follow a Senegalese couple determined to nurture their relationship while challenging the deeply entrenched traditional roles of their tribe. Banel, a young female rights activist, yearns for a life beyond the confines of the tribe, envisioning a future with Adama where they can raise a family one day and enjoy their freedom. However, Banel’s quest for individuality often casts her as an outsider with seemingly unattainable aspirations within the community. Adama, on the other hand, bears the weight of his family’s legacy, destined to assume leadership of the tribe and shoulder its ancestral responsibilities. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when a series of enigmatic and prophetic events unfold, forever altering the tribe’s destiny and the bond between Adama and Banel. Taji Mag was able to chat with the creative mind behind this romantic drama, Ramata-Toulaye Sy during the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

Dapper Dr. Feel (DDF): It is a pleasure to meet you, Ramata. Can you introduce yourself to our audience and let us know a little bit about yourself?

Ramata-Toulaye Sy (RTS): Of course, I’m Ramata -Toulaye Sy, and I’m 37. I was born in France, Paris, but my parents are initially from Senegal, in West Africa.  I am a director and screenwriter of the 2023 TIFF-selected film Banel & Adama. It’s my first feature, and it was an official selection at Cannes this year.

DDF: There are some beautiful scenes of the Senegal environment sans dialogue. What was the process for selecting those sites? 

RTS: So with my Director of Photography (DOP), Virada, we wanted it to resemble paintings because I love painting. I go to a lot of museums around the world, and painting is a passion of mine, second to literature.  I wanted my movie to be a piece of art and not just cinematographic, with a lot of literature, a lot of poetry, and a lot of painting. So I had a lot of inspiration from artists like Amoura Kobouafo, Kerry James Marshall, Van Gogh, and Edvard Munch.

My inspirations in literature are Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, and Jean Racine for the tragedy and African tales my mom told me when I was young. 

DDF: There are a lot of themes in this film. Can you elaborate on what themes you wanted to highlight and why? 

RTS: So first of all I wanted this film to be a love story. I wanted to write the biggest, the boldest, and the saddest African love story because I think, in Africa, we need more universal stories and not just stories about misery, war, and oppression. I really wanted to do a universal story. I think I tend to write about women because there’s always this question about how to be a woman in this world. What it means to be a Black woman is really important to me, how is our life, what is our struggle, the beauty, the complexity, and deepness of being a woman.

DDF: The character, Banel, is just so resistant to the culture and the gender roles of the tribe. What do you think is the cause of this? 

RTS: I think it’s from me. Lol! I’m like Banel, not quite really the exact same, but the inspiration is me because I think I’m resistant against the world. I’m resisting against, you know, everything. It’s my personality and I think Banel just wants to live life as a woman. She doesn’t have a big goal in mind at the moment. She just wants to live by her own terms, free from her traditions, culture, and what the people in her life, like her family, want from her… like having a baby, which she doesn’t want.

She just wants to love and live her life passionately with Adama. She’s really angry, and I really wanted to tell the story where a woman could be angry because we are allowed to be angry. We can have angered emotions towards people, beliefs, and things in this world, because it’s so hard. It’s so hard to be a woman in this world, and it’s so hard to be a Black woman in this world.

DDF: Why is Banel’s weapon/tool of choice a slingshot?  

RTS: A lot of people are asking me this question. I think this is usually played with and used by  little boys. Characteristically, it’s usually used by boys, but since the beginning of the film, we see she’s not a typical woman. She’s a little bit childish, she’s just like a warrior. I wanted her to be a warrior, but I didn’t want her to use a gun or knife. I wanted an object that signifies Africa, you know?

DDF: What do you want your viewers to remember the most about your film after watching it?

RTS: I think I want the spectator to remember Banel. Not the beautiful painting or the beautiful shot. For me, the character of Banel is essential in this world. Actually, all the struggles women have in Africa, in Afghanistan, in Syria, women everywhere, all of their struggles [are essential].

I don’t want people to love Banel, I don’t care if they do, and a lot of people don’t! I just want people to understand why she is angry and why she is the way she is. 

DDF: You have a passion for giving back and making a positive impact on your community. How do you think your career in filmmaking can align with your goals of creating social change and contributing to some of the causes that you care about? 

RTS: I think I really like to help people from my community. It’s a big dream of mine to help and give back. I grew up in France, in a suburb where my parents settled as immigrants. So it was really hard for me just to enter this cinematic world of France, because this world is really small and at times feels closed off. But I really want to help people like me from this suburb, from immigrant parents, and those less fortunate, help to elevate this world and allow for opportunities for people. I want people to dream big because we can help elevate and grow, even though [we] have to do twice the work.

DDF: I want to ask one question about Adama. There is a certain shift in the film where events occur that affect the tribe negatively. Why do you think these events changed his mind? 

RTS: With the character of Adama, I wanted him to be very innocent and very fragile. All those characteristics are normally used for women, but I put them in Adama. In this story, the victim is not Banel, it is not the woman. The character who takes on more of the victim role is the man. I wanted to show [through] the Adama character, that it’s not easy for men to have duties placed upon them; this includes duties influenced by culture and beliefs. This way, I showed that it’s not easy for men or women, but it’s really not easy for men to choose duty.

I don’t want to spoil it, but I think Adama had to make the choice he did at the end because he didn’t have another solution. He loves his community and he wants to do something for his people, for his community; unlike Banel, who’s a selfish character, but I really love that.

DDF: What are some of the films that impacted you growing up? 

RTS: I didn’t have the cinema culture growing up because my parents came from a very small village in Senegal. So, I didn’t go to a lot of cinemas when I was young. I watched a lot of films on TV later in life. It was the big American blockbusters like The Terminator, Indiana Jones, Fast and the Furious, and other movies like that. 

DDF: Have your parents seen this film and what was their response to it? 

RTS: Yeah, and it’s the first time that my parents went to the cinema.

DDF: Oh, wow. That must’ve been a big deal. 

RTS: Yeah it really was a big deal because my dad arrived in France during the 60s and my mom arrived during the 80s. They never went to a movie theater. It was their first time and that’s weird because my dad didn’t tell me much other than that I did a good job and my mom said it was very different because she’s still very traditional. So she came home and she said to me, “That Banel, she’s so mean. She’s not a good girl”.

DDF: Oh my goodness! That must’ve stirred up some feelings in you.

RTS: Yeah, but my parents are really proud of me, you know? They are really proud that I chose to make my first movie in Senegal… in Perle… in the village; because, you know, they are from Perle.

Conclusion/Thoughts on the Film

Banel & Adama immerses viewers in the beautiful landscapes of Senegal, evoking the essence of the environment visually. The cast, while not seasoned actors by profession, delivered performances imbued with authenticity, breathing life into their characters. Their unpolished portrayals added a rawness that professional actors might have struggled to capture.

I particularly felt the anger and resistance Banel had for the life forced upon her, but also didn’t like how she spoke and treated people at times. Adama, I felt more sympathy for because he truly wanted to live his life on his own terms and not the one chosen by his family, but cared about his community enough to make some difficult decisions. 

Despite its small village setting, the film’s themes resonate universally and, I am sure, have touched audiences worldwide. 

We all grapple with the quest for a life and identity that sometimes diverges from our cultural norms, familial expectations, or personal beliefs.

While this film may not be an action blockbuster, it will undoubtedly find a place amongst art enthusiasts and cinephiles. The narrative artistry, combined with its portrayal of a Senegalese village, provides a compelling experience for viewers. It’s no surprise that the film has earned a spot in the Toronto Film Festival and continues to grace other prestigious film festivals globally.

Synopsis: Khari Brooks is part owner of “Club Daze” and loving his single life until he is caught in a daze of deja vu and wakes up every morning to repeat Saturday… think Groundhog Day meets How To Be a Player.

Jewels Proctor, a budding filmmaker, takes us on a journey with her short film Daze. Centered around the life of Khari Brooks, a part-owner of the vibrant “Club Daze”, Proctor’s work offers a fresh perspective on the repercussions of reliving a cycle without consequences, prompting viewers to ponder the consequences of their own actions and the lessons they learn along the way, like Khari. 

At the heart of Daze lies an intriguing premise that fuels the story’s appeal. Khari is trapped in a cycle of deja vu intertwined with the complexities of dating and personal growth. Khari’s character embodies the archetype of a successful young man navigating relationships and romantic encounters in the modern world. His past experiences, whether positive or negative, shape his interactions and pave the way for the narrative’s unfolding.

One standout aspect of Daze is the attention to some technical details, particularly in terms of lighting and wardrobe. It’s proven difficult in the past to find the correct lighting for dark-skinned actors, but Daze manages to pull it off.  I feel like Proctor’s commitment to creating a visually appealing short film is evident. The wardrobe choices and set design authenticate the characters and their environment, ensuring a seamless integration between storytelling and aesthetics.

Proctor’s ability to create a relatable and engaging story is commendable. As a viewer, the film triggered a sense of nostalgia and familiarity with personal experiences, which underlines the true power of cinema: to foster a connection between the art and the audience. Daze achieves just that, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences, actions, and choices.

One cannot help but imagine the potential for this powerful short film to be expanded into a full feature-length film. The foundation is already set with well-crafted characters and a thought-provoking premise.

The only minor detail that I believe could be tweaked is the dialogue that takes place between Khari and a young lady in the final act. The dialogue is a bit lengthy and could be trimmed down to keep the pacing and tone balanced. 

In conclusion, Daze is a noteworthy addition to the world of short films in 2023. Jewels Proctor demonstrates her storytelling prowess, effectively blending elements of repetition, personal growth, and relationship dynamics. 

Aspiring filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts alike will find Daze to be an inspiring example of the potential that lies within the short film format. Be sure to keep an eye out for Daze at your local film festivals or any platform where it may be showcased.

Where to Watch: In theaters 

Release Date: September 1st, 2023

Runtime: 1h 41m

Rated: R

Director: Antoine Fuqua

Starring: Denzel Washington

Synopsis: Since giving up his life as a government assassin, Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) has struggled to reconcile the horrific things he’s done in the past and finds a strange solace in serving justice on behalf of the oppressed. Finding himself surprisingly at home in Southern Italy, he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends’ protector by taking on the mafia.

“Sensational” and “brutal” sum up the third installment of The Equalizer franchise, and Denzel Washington’s performance in Equalizer 3 is nothing short of spectacular, which is no surprise to fans of the 48-year vet . When you have one of the best actors and directors collaborate on a project like this, the end product is bound to be a good time with some kick-ass action scenes and, trust me, there are some tough scenes this go round.

At first, the film presents a seemingly random yet action-packed turn of events as our lead character, Robert McCall, finds himself in the care of a stranger who turns out to be a Carabiniere (a member of the Italian paramilitary police) and a local doctor. Yet, as the story unfolds, director Antoine Fuqua and writer Richard Wenk masterfully bring these events together, resulting in a compelling narrative and thus giving McCall a renewed sense of purpose, sending him on a captivating journey into a new chapter of his life.

While the antagonist in this installment may not stand out as much as those in previous films, the context is crucial. We’re dealing with a small but dangerous mafia attempting to take over a picturesque Italian coastal village. This setting allows the movie to avoid the temptation of concluding matters prematurely by unleashing a horde of bad guys on the village. Instead, it keeps the tension simmering, gradually building to a satisfying climax. I would like to argue that if you show the action scenes to someone unfamiliar with the franchise, they would think that McCall is the villain in this film.

One notable aspect of the film is how each level of villains, from the lowly recruits to the high-ranking Camorra members, seem to fear those above them. Director Fuqua skillfully portrays this dynamic, emphasizing the menacing aura of criminal leadership. Leader Vincent Quaranta scares even his brother and second-in-command, Marco Quaranta, with his antics.

The film’s deliberate pacing serves a purpose: to give us a glimpse into McCall’s transition into his new life. It effectively shows how much time he needs to adjust and resist his urge to become an assassin again, a lifestyle he’s not certain he wants to continue. By the movie’s end, we see a character who not only feels comfortable in his new life but is also happily dancing with the locals, suggesting a potential romance with Aminah, played by Gaia Scodellaro. Washington and Scodellaro have great on-screen chemistry that is naturally further enhanced by the breathtaking backdrop of an old Italian village. The picturesque old buildings, bustling markets, and stunning ocean views are enough to inspire anyone to book a trip to Italy. Heck, I’m looking at flights and all-inclusive packages as we speak! 

Fuqua employs creative cinematography to capture McCall as an almost mythical figure, especially during intense confrontations. One particularly striking moment features McCall bathed in light from a streetlamp, looming over his injured adversary, with the camera positioned from the villain’s perspective.

In another scene, McCall is climbing the steps of a building, and as he sits on a step we notice a picture of St. Mary in the background. There’s a dark stairwell to one side of him and a light stairwell opposite. I interpret this symbolism as his pending decision to choose a pathway of either darkness or good, which is what he struggles with during the course of this final installment.

The film’s action sequences are nothing short of brutal and gory, satisfying those with a taste for intense, bone-crunching violence. From the very beginning, the audience is thrust into McCall’s world of calculated chaos, reminiscent of a Michael Myers-esque killing spree.

Conclusion

In Equalizer 3, Denzel Washington once again reminds us why he’s one of the most acclaimed actors of our time. Although I still think that the first film is the best of the three-part series, Washington’s portrayal of McCall is a tour de force and, combined with Fuqua’s deft direction and compelling narrative, this installment offers a thrilling and riveting cinematic experience. Equalizer 3 is a testament to Washington’s enduring appeal and the franchise’s ability to consistently deliver heart-pounding action with substance. Check it out in theaters for an action-packed good time.

Where to Watch: Streaming on Prime 

Release Date: September 15th

Rated: PG

Run Time: 120mins

Starring: Micheal Peña

Synopsis: Inspired by the real-life story of NASA flight engineer José Hernández, A Million Miles Away follows José and his family of proud migrant farm workers on a decades-long journey from a rural village in Michoacán, Mexico, to the fields of the San Joaquin Valley, to more than 200 miles above the Earth in the International Space Station. With unwavering support from his hard-working parents, relatives, and teachers, José’s unrelenting drive and determination culminate in the opportunity to achieve his seemingly impossible goal. Acclaimed writer and director Alejandra Márquez Abella has created a dazzling tribute to the loyalty and tenacity of the entire Hernández family, as well as anyone who dares to dream.

In an era of diversity in film, A Million Miles Away emerges as a gentle yet powerful reminder of the profound impact of a heartwarming narrative driven by dreams, resilience, and familial bonds. Directed by visionary storyteller, Alejandra Márquez Abella, this promising film is an inspiring saga that tugs at the heartstrings (truth be told, I had a little eye sweat during the screening myself), all while beautifully telling the heartwarming story of astronaut José Hernandez. 

This project shows where Jose’s journey took him, from the farm to outer space. During this pursuit, José had to transcend culture, racism, and circumstance to aspire to something as extraordinary as becoming an astronaut. We follow the journey of a family who once toiled a farm, their hands rooted in soil, yet now yearn to touch the stars. 

The beauty of A Million Miles Away lies not only in its narrative depth but also in the way the film was crafted. The transitions and flashbacks employed throughout the film are masterfully executed. Not an easy task as there’s always a risk that such transitions could take away from the quality of a film. These narrative tools act as signposts, expertly navigating the viewer through pivotal moments in the story and enhancing our emotional connection with the characters.

The heart and soul of A Million Miles Away is undoubtedly Michael Peña’s extraordinary performance as astronaut José Hernandez. Peña embodies the character with an authenticity that is both moving and convincing. He captures the charm, wit, and unwavering perseverance of Mr. Hernandez. Throughout the film, Peña breathes life into the character, making cus not just observers but confidants to his dreams and aspirations.

One minor concern that arose for me was that Peña was tasked with portraying a 20-year-old José. While Peña, with his youthful appearance, makes a valiant effort, it’s challenging to fully buy into the age portrayal. Nevertheless, this minor concern does little to diminish the overall impact of his performance, which remains commendable.

Beyond Peña’s brilliant portrayal, the film’s true triumph lies in its portrayal of familial bonds. A Million Miles Away showcases with heartfelt tenderness the unbreakable support of José’s family, particularly his wife. It is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices, unwavering encouragement, and shared aspirations that define the immigrant family experience.

The film beautifully captures the essence of family as a source of strength, portraying the characters not as individuals but as integral pieces of a collective puzzle. I can relate because my family operates in this same way. Witnessing the family’s steadfast support for José as he navigates the complex (and often daunting) path toward his dreams is nothing short of heartwarming.

In conclusion, A Million Miles Away is more than just a film; it’s a heartfelt journey that celebrates the resilience of José Hernandez, the first Hispanic migrant to become a NASA astronaut. Michael Peña’s exceptional performance, combined with the film’s craftsmanship, makes it a must-watch for those seeking an uplifting cinematic experience. It’s a tribute to the dreams that unite us and the families that sustain us, leaving a lasting impression on the heart and soul.

Taji Mag had an exclusive interview with director/writer Chris Spencer and actor Faizon Love, who discussed the different aspects of their comedy “Back on the Strip.” The duo explored their experience of collaborating with a cast comprised of comedic veterans, as well as the esteemed actor Wesley Snipes, whose presence set a defining tone for the entire production. Among their insights, they also shared humorous stories and behind-the-scenes stories that added an extra layer of humor to the conversation.

Watch “Back on the Strip” in theaters now. 

Starring: Tiffany Haddish, Wesley Snipes, JB Smoove, Faison Love, Bill Bellamy, and Gary Owen, and Kevin Hart
Synopsis: In Back on the Strip, tough-as-nails Verna (Tiffany Haddish) sends her broken-hearted son Merlin (Spence Moore, Creed III) to Vegas, determined to help him make his dreams come true as a professional magician.  But a chance meeting at a run-down hotel with Mr. Big (Wesley Snipes) – the front man of the once notorious Black male stripper crew known as “The Chocolate Chips” (JB Smoove, Faizon Love, Bill Bellamy & Gary Owen) –  suddenly has Merlin thrust into a different kind of spotlight.  In a race against time to get his girl back and help the out-of-shape and out-of-sync “Chips” rediscover their groove, Merlin will soon find he already has all the magic tricks he needs.

Where to Watch: In theaters 

Release Date: August 18

Runtime: 1h 41m

Rated: PG-13

Director: Angel Manuel Soto

Starring: Xolo Maridueña, Adriana Barraza, Damián Alcázar, Elpidia Carrillo, Bruna Marquezine, Raoul Max Trujillo, Susan Sarandon, George Lopez, Belissa Escobedo, and Harvey Guillén. 

Synopsis: Recent college grad Jaime Reyes (played by Xolo Maridueña of Cobra Kai) returns home full of aspirations for his future, only to find that home is not quite as he left it. As he searches to discover his purpose in the world, fate intervenes when Jaime unexpectedly finds himself in possession of an ancient relic of alien biotechnology: the Scarab. When the Scarab suddenly chooses Jaime to be its symbiotic host, he is bestowed with an incredible suit of armor capable of extraordinary and unpredictable powers, forever changing his destiny as he becomes the superhero Blue Beetle.

Blue Beetle is one of the most eagerly anticipated DCEU films of 2023, and it’s safe to say this film was a genuinely good time. With a commendable performance by Xolo Maridueña as Jamie Reyes/Blue Beetle, this film delivers an engaging and culturally resonant journey that will keep viewers entertained. It’s filled with nods to comic book lore, pop culture, and the vibrant tapestry of Latino heritage; Blue Beetle emerges as a revitalizing gem within the superhero realm.

The Story

The narrative of Blue Beetle keeps the audience interested from its opening moments to its grand finale. Naturally, there are a couple of moments where the film lags a bit, but it’s not too distracting and lends to necessary character development. Each character, driven by personal aspirations and challenges, weaves a compelling thread throughout the story. Jamie Reyes’ transformation from a hopeful college graduate to a young adult confronting the disillusionment of the “American Dream” strikes a chord universally. The film demonstrates courage in addressing hurdles faced by the Latinx community in the United States, exploring themes of discrimination and isolation. While these instances may evoke strong emotions, they also offer a window into pertinent societal issues with which many can identify. The film also acknowledges other popular heroes within the DCEU (like Superman and Batman), so it will be interesting to see where James Gunn (Filmmaker and co-CEO of DC Studios) will take the franchise.

The Characters

Xolo Maridueña’s portrayal of Jamie Reyes stands as the movie’s emotional core, capturing the essence of the character’s evolution. If I had to describe Jamie/Blue Beetle, I’d say he is a blend of Iron Man, Spider-Man, and Venom. He emerges as a relatable figure for young individuals from diverse backgrounds navigating the journey from childhood to adulthood in a world where racism and prejudice persist, all in pursuit of a brighter future.

The Reyes family dynamic (rich in love, support, and humor) forms an empathetic backdrop against which the narrative unfolds. George Lopez’s Rudy adds a charismatic layer with his conspiracy theorist persona and technical prowess. Adriana Barraza’s Nana imparts warmth and wisdom, serving as a reassuring presence that guides Jamie through his tribulations. Belissa Escobedo as Jamie’s sister, Milagro, was spot on as a younger sibling with her humor and small jokes. I’m interested to see more of her in the film. Each character contributes a distinctive hue to the tapestry of the story, enriching it with depth and authenticity and finding their moments to shine through riveting action sequences.

The film was so family-focused that I expected Dominic Torretto from The Fast and Furious franchise to pop in and say, “There’s nothing stronger than family”.

Antagonists

Susan Sarandon’s portrayal of Victoria Kord is commendable, though her character’s motives could have been further developed to enhance her villainous arc. On the other hand, Raoul Max Trujillo’s Conrad Carapax/Indestructible Man captivates with his commanding presence and fully fleshed-out motivations in the climactic act. His tale is a captivating revelation that draws parallels to astonishing real-life stories unfolding worldwide. Plus, his arsenal and attack methods are brutal but cool to watch on screen, especially when he becomes a bigger threat to the lead character Jamie and his family. Hopefully, the film will get sequels, and we can eventually get to see Black Beetle, who is a badass and even more villainous than Carapax.

The Suit and Direction

The Blue Beetle suit is a triumph, seamlessly drawing inspiration from comics and animated adaptations. Notably, the sonic blasters wielded by Blue Beetle evoke nostalgic vibes for fans of the source material. The metamorphosis of Jamie into Blue Beetle, with the armor enveloping him as protection against threats, is visually captivating.

Directorial prowess is evident in Blue Beetle‘s visual splendor. The vibrant color palette, dominated by turquoise, blue, and purple tones, aligns the emotional tone of each scene. The interplay of light, especially during intimate conversations, magnifies the characters’ perspectives and feelings, enhancing the storytelling experience.

One scene that drew my interest was when Jamie engages in an intimate conversation with Jenny Kord about the concept of family. As the camera frames Jamie looking at Jenny from over his shoulder, a radiant light bathes her from behind, symbolizing the optimism and positivity that Jamie perceives from his standpoint. Conversely, when the perspective shifts to Jenny’s viewpoint with the camera trained on Jamie, a subtle glimmer of light reflects off him. This delicate play of light suggests the faint traces of positivity that she may detect or experience from her own vantage point.

Another particularly poignant moment arises in the film, potentially evoking strong emotions in viewers, as the Kord organization floods the Reyes family home, leaving destruction in its wake. This unsettling scene resonates eerily with real-life incidents where government enforcement raids have disrupted the lives of innocent individuals.

Another profoundly moving scene unfolds when Jamie finds solace atop his home’s roof, accompanied by his sister Milagro. The expansive shot captures the stark contrast between the humble, dimly lit, and worn-down neighborhood they call home and the towering, contemporary structures bustling with activity and vibrant lights. This visual juxtaposition poignantly illustrates the disparity between poverty and privilege. A subtle yet impactful detail is the careful attention to the setting, revealing Kord’s pervasive influence, even extending to owning the very home the Reyes family inhabits.

The Music

The film’s soundtrack, featuring tracks from Latino artists, harmoniously complements the story’s atmosphere. Personal favorites like Selena bring a delightful nostalgic touch, while the inclusion of Cypress Hill’s “I Ain’t Going Out Like That” heightens the impact of action sequences, particularly during Jamie and his family’s battle against sinister forces.

In Conclusion

Blue Beetle shines as a captivating and culturally significant addition to the DCEU. Staying faithful to the character’s heritage, the film probes both individual and societal trials with genuine authenticity. The storyline’s evolution sustains audience engagement, and the film’s resolution is gratifying. With Xolo Maridueña’s compelling lead performance, a relatable family dynamic, and visually arresting direction, Blue Beetle asserts itself as a promising cornerstone of the DCEU. A must-see for aficionados of the superhero genre and those seeking an immersive and pertinent cinematic voyage, Blue Beetle undoubtedly earns its well-deserved 8/10 rating. As the credits roll, one can’t help but anticipate more thrilling exploits from Blue Beetle and his spirited companions.