David vs. Goliath Redux: ‘Dumb Money’ Revives the Battle of the Underdogs Against the One Percenters
In an era marked by the ever-widening chasm between the affluent and the rest of society, “Dumb Money” thrusts us into the battleground where the underdogs take on the one percenters.
Remember the fervor of Occupy Wall Street? It ignited as a 2,000-strong march against wealth disparity and burgeoned into an enduring two-month “sit-in” in the heart of lower Manhattan over a decade ago. Fast forward to January 2021, and we witnessed another riveting showdown: the GameStop Short Squeeze, a tale of David versus Goliath where ordinary folks scored big wins while titans of the stock market hemorrhaged millions by the day. “Dumb Money” draws inspiration from “The Antisocial Network” and vividly reimagines these events from just over two and a half years ago.
The narrative commences in the summer of 2019, introducing Keith Gill, portrayed with aplomb by Paul Dano—a Chartered Financial Analyst with a YouTube channel. Gill fervently believes that GameStop’s stock is unjustly undervalued and doesn’t hesitate to broadcast his convictions across YouTube and Reddit. As an increasing number of “average Joes” rally behind GameStop, Wall Street’s upper echelons grow increasingly jittery. Ultimately, Gill and his cohort of investors strike gold, leaving a trail of shattered illusions and substantial losses for the avaricious CEOs of Wall Street.
Paul Dano’s portrayal of Gill is nothing short of stellar. He encapsulates the essence of a goofy yet astute YouTuber and financial analyst, projecting an aura of innocence that masks the intricate web of financial machinations beneath. The supporting cast, including Seth Rogen and Vincent D’Onofrio, adds depth and authenticity to this riveting real-life drama. The ensemble features familiar faces like Pete Davidson, America Ferrera, Sebastian Stan, Shailene Woodley, and Anthony Ramos, all contributing to a formidable ensemble.
Director Craig Gillespie, renowned for his work on “Cruella,” maintains a brisk pace throughout the film. He adeptly translates the script, a collaboration between Lauren Schuker Blum and Rebecca Angelo, along with Ben Mezrich’s source material, into a visually captivating narrative. While the financial jargon might appear daunting, especially for those without a background in business, rest assured that the majority of the dialogue breaks it down into plain and accessible language. This ensures that the film remains engaging and comprehensible for a diverse audience.
“Dumb Money” offers something for everyone—whether you’re a financial aficionado keen to relive this enthralling chapter of history or merely curious about the real-life clash between financial giants and the little guys.
Power Book IV: Force Season 2 has found its stride on its story and narrative as episode 3 masterfully blends emotional depth with the series’ signature action and violence. We had the privilege of speaking with Cierra ‘Shooter’ Glaudé, the director, who shared valuable insights into the intricate preparation required for such a large-scale episode and the experience of collaborating with this exceptional ensemble of actors.
How did you balance your directing skills for this episode?
So for this episode to all three of I tell people, I feel like it’s like the inciting episode of like the whole season, you know, a lot of stuff really is kicked off and underway and I had a really good time, you know, shooting it and collaborating with the actors, especially like when actors have been characters for so long and just being able to like, you know, collaborate with them and get different options, different versions of the take and stuff like that.
I value the contributions of the actors and appreciate how their performances enhance the overall narrative. They often bring a lot to the table, complementing the story I’ve crafted. I genuinely enjoy being part of shows that offer a diverse range of elements and keep the episodes engaging. However, it’s essential to have moments of emotional depth to anchor the story. In this episode, we managed to strike a balance by delving into intricate family relationships while still keeping the plot dynamic.
What was the collaborative process like in developing the character arc for Jenard and crafting the pivotal moments that led to his descent in this episode?
So a lot of it is birthed in the writers room. One of the first conversations that me and my writer, Terri Kopp, was just about the things that the characters were going through. And she explained to me that this episode was kind of where Jenard started slipping, you know, getting into stuff you shouldn’t be getting into. So we were really focused on that. And just the whole time in the episode, he is doing like this until he kind of crashes out at the end there. And that just sits like a whole other series of events in motion for later in the season and stuff like that. But again, a lot of that heavy lifting is done with the writers. Shout out to Kris Lofton, who plays Jenard, because, you know, he had to bring it and really be into those moments. I love that scene in the car with him and Lil K. You really just feel like that savage viciousness, that desperation out of him, which is really dope.
What were some of the challenging scenes for you as a director for this episode?
In this episode, the most demanding aspects were the stunts we had to execute, particularly the Lamborghini chase sequence. Initially, it was a bit longer, but we encountered logistical challenges on the shooting day, including issues with the sun’s position, which necessitated a change in the shooting schedule. Coordinating the stunts was another complex aspect, as we had to conduct numerous practice runs with the stunt cars to ensure safety.
Additionally, we incorporated some innovative camera dollies, which were motorized and added a dynamic element to certain scenes, like the one where it felt like we were racing down the street. Another challenging scene was set in a torture chamber, requiring meticulous planning to determine the best materials, including silicone and others, for the fake hand to make it look convincing on camera, especially during moments when it needed to appear broken. These were some of the most demanding aspects of our work.
However, it’s worth noting that the actors’ ability to deliver their performances and hit their emotional marks was equally crucial to the success of the episode.
This week’s episode of Power Book IV: Force once again delivered its signature dose of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists. Death continues to cast its shadow over the series, as Chewy, the Doc, Lil K, and now Seamus have all met their untimely ends. It’s a testament to the show’s willingness to keep viewers on their toes, as no character, no matter how seemingly pivotal, is safe from the unpredictable narrative.
One standout element of the episode is the enigmatic character Mireya, who appears to be harboring secrets of her own. The writers seem to be setting the stage for a potential twist involving her, leaving viewers speculating about her true role and motivations.
Seamus, on the other hand, had potential for a more substantial role, and his abrupt demise at the hands of D. Mac felt somewhat unexpected and possibly premature. It appears the series is keen on distancing itself from its season 1 aftertaste, even if it means letting go of characters abruptly.
Jenard’s character has been a highlight this season, with the actor delivering a captivating performance as his character navigates increasingly unpredictable situations.
The Flynn storyline, while improving, still leaves room for further development. Walter’s fate seems precarious, and it’s likely he may meet his end soon, though some viewers might have hoped for a more drawn-out narrative.
As for Diamond, he appears to be a fish out of water in the treacherous streets of the series. His surprising lack of reaction to Tommy’s aggressive gesture leaves us wondering if there might be more to his character than meets the eye. The potential for friction between him and Tommy down the line adds an intriguing layer to the evolving dynamics of the show.
In sum, this episode continues to showcase the series’ knack for keeping its audience engaged through unexpected deaths, complex characters, and a narrative that leaves viewers hungry for more. Power Book IV: Force remains a rollercoaster of suspense and intrigue.
This week’s episode of Power Book IV: Force has continued the upward trajectory set by the previous ones, maintaining the momentum and leaving viewers eagerly anticipating what’s next in store.
One of the most intriguing plot developments was the unexpected turn in the Lil K situation. At first, it seemed like Tommy might be the one to take matters into his own hands, but the twist of Jenard ultimately going through with the act was a genuine shocker. However, Jenard’s subsequent descent into drug use has thrown his character into an uncertain and precarious trajectory. It leaves viewers wondering about the potential consequences and where this downward spiral might lead him.
On a more positive note, Kate’s character seems to be undergoing a significant transformation, as she strives to turn over a new leaf. This newfound determination in her character adds depth to the narrative, but it also raises the unsettling possibility of her becoming a target later in the season. The tension surrounding her character keeps us on edge, unsure of her ultimate fate.
Diamond’s girlfriend introduced an interesting dynamic, resembling an older version of Jukebox in appearance. Her loyalty to the cause, much like Jenard’s girlfriend, adds complexity to the storyline. It’s a question of how long she will stay in the picture and what role she will play in the unfolding drama.
Vic, on the other hand, emerges as a potential wildcard this season. While others are making overt power moves, his subtler actions hint at a different strategy at play. The theory that he might eventually take over the Flynn organization, potentially after Walters meets his demise, adds an exciting layer of intrigue to the narrative. The prospect of a showdown between Vic and Claudia, or the possibility of him collaborating with Tommy under certain circumstances, keeps the suspense alive and viewers engaged in the unfolding drama.
This season of Power Book IV: Force continues to deliver captivating storytelling, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next episode.
In the latest episode of Power Book IV: Force, viewers were treated to a plethora of intriguing developments that added depth and complexity to the unfolding narrative.
Firstly, the arrival of a highly intelligent cop character was a notable departure from the usual law enforcement personas in the Power universe. This character’s astuteness promises to introduce a new dynamic to the series.The episode kicked off with an eyebrow-raising scene involving Diamond, whose intimate encounter with a female cop took the shock factor to another level. This daring opening set the tone for a riveting episode.
Diamond’s conversation with Tommy couldn’t help but draw parallels to Ghost, suggesting a transformation in his character that is sure to keep audiences engaged. Jenard and his crew, on the other hand, continued to underwhelm, appearing ineffectual and out of their depth. Their consistent poor decision-making only reinforces their lack of prowess. Vic’s candid remark about his sister was brutally honest, highlighting the potential benefit of distancing himself from his family’s toxic influence.
A surprising revelation was Claudia’s bisexuality, adding an unexpected layer to her character and hinting at further complexities yet to be explored. Jenard’s escalating involvement in criminal activities indicated that he might be biting off more than he can chew, setting the stage for future complications. The shocking moment when Tommy was shot left viewers on edge, while Miguel’s crew’s expanding knowledge of Tommy, including his connection to Julio, signaled impending conflict.
Mireya’s intriguing dual role as both a nurse and, potentially, a doctor for Miguel’s crew raised intriguing questions about her character’s moral ambiguity. Stacy’s anticipated failure in her law enforcement role followed the established pattern in Power, where authorities often find themselves outmatched and outmaneuvered.
Vic’s apparent detachment from his previous priorities suggested a significant shift in his character, adding to the evolving dynamics within the series. The introduction of the cartel injected a palpable sense of danger and intrigue, with Miguel’s palpable fear hinting at a formidable adversary that will shape the unfolding narrative.
Two episodes into the season, it’s already evident that this installment of Power is exceeding expectations, promising a compelling and complex web of characters and plot twists for fans to eagerly anticipate.
Following the triumphant conclusion of The Walking Dead: Dead City, I eagerly anticipated Daryl Dixon’s next chapter post-main show. To my surprise, Daryl found himself thrust into uncharted French territory. I had the opportunity to dive into the first season of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, and the excitement continued at San Diego Comic Con when AMC unveiled its action-packed renewal for a second season.
Let’s dive straight into the breathtaking visuals of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. The production and cinematography truly excel in capturing the essence of the zombie outbreak in France. From the grandeur of the mountains and winding roads to the eerie transformation of iconic landmarks and the haunting beauty of rural landscapes, it’s as if you’re embarking on an epic adventure within an expansive open-world video game.
Another intriguing facet of the visual experience is the seamless integration of the entire French landscape into Daryl Dixon’s environment. Daryl, being in a foreign land, grapples with the linguistic and cultural differences that surround him. His inability to comprehend the entirety of France forces him to rely on either a translator or his own wits to navigate this unfamiliar terrain. Every step he takes, every interaction he has, becomes a puzzle to solve in his quest to find his way back home.
It’s worth noting that Daryl is not the sole American who has found themselves in France within the storyline. However, their paths to arriving in this foreign land diverged significantly from Daryl’s, adding an intriguing layer of complexity to the narrative.
Isabelle undeniably shines as one of the standout characters in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. At the behest of AMC, I must tread carefully around revealing too much about her major plot developments, but I can share that her character introduces viewers to the very origins of the outbreak in France through a poignant flashback scene. To put it frankly, Isabelle evolves into the show’s most compelling character, taking me on a journey from initially perceiving her as inconspicuous to gaining profound insight into the depth of her character and the reasons behind her actions. Her character arc is nothing short of riveting, and it adds an extra layer of intrigue to the series.
Daryl Dixon, on the other hand, undergoes remarkable character development in this series, allowing Norman Reedus to showcase a broader range in his acting abilities. This transformation is particularly notable because Daryl takes on the role of the main lead within an entirely new cast. His standout moments occur in episodes 2, 4, and 6. While it might appear as though he is being humanized for the more casual viewers, I found this evolution necessary to demonstrate how his character has evolved from his time in the main show.
Laurent is what happens when you throw in a Fear The Walking Dead story on another child. I find him to be very pointless and there is also one scene at the start of an unspecified episode that annoyed the shit out of me. I will only say that it involves a walker horde and him. I will let your imagination think of it. However, who his mother is for this story ties into the start of the apocalypse in France.
Setting aside those points, my chief criticisms of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon revolve around its disjointed storytelling. Following the initial episode, it becomes evident that there are issues with pacing, writing, and a noticeable shift in tone. The narrative loses its sense of direction, as if attempting to check off a laundry list of elements to cram into the storyline. Regrettably, this approach lacks the depth and substance needed to truly engage the audience.
Remember those variant walkers you saw on the main show? We do not get much of that here besides two major scenes. I would have thought what we saw at the end of World Beyond would play into Daryl Dixon and that was only half the truth. It does not help that the main villain is generic as hell.
The action is great. Especially towards the end of the season. I also cannot reveal what led Daryl to France, but I can say that he had a pit stop at Maine prior to the incident that led him there. I just wish that it did not take a long number of episodes to show this.
In conclusion, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon is a must-watch for dedicated fans looking to stay connected to the broader franchise. It certainly delivers on the fronts of action and suspense, providing the kind of gripping entertainment viewers have come to expect from the series. However, my only lament is the missed opportunity for a more captivating and robust storytelling narrative.
A greater emphasis on character depth and plot development could have elevated the series from being merely entertaining to truly engrossing. Nonetheless, for those invested in the world of The Walking Dead, it’s an essential addition to the canon.
Also, watch until the final scene of the season finale.
At Starrcast 2023, the wrestling world comes alive with a special touch of nostalgia as wrestlers from around the globe gather to share their cherished Chicago memories.
In a city where wrestling history has been etched into the very fabric of its culture, these athletes take the stage not just to showcase their incredible talents, but to pay homage to the iconic moments that have unfolded in this wrestling industry, which took place at the Hyatt Hotel over this past weekend.
Matt Cardona, formerly known as WWE’s Zack Ryder, told us that he lost his GCW title in Chicago, calling it the “Chicago Screwjob” as he never got a rematch. Beyond this, he has a passion for wrestling figure collecting and shared some of his plans to work with talent to bring these figures to life in the upcoming months.
“I like to see Demolition and now we’re making their figures of Marty Jannetty. So now it’s my turn to make the figures. So I get to go around these conventions and meet guys I grew up watching, or even guys like Nick Gage, who I hate, but I’ll make a figure of them and I’ll make money off them. So it’s fun to collect figures and to make figures,” he said.
Cardona is no stranger to social media as he was one of the first over a decade ago to use it for his advantage to broaden his awareness beyond the wrestling bubble.
“I mean, it’s smart, it’s free advertising, Twitter, X, whatever you want to call it, YouTube, Tik Tok, Instagram. It is all free advertising. Double edged sword. It’s free for everybody. How are you going to stand out from every other wrestler? I don’t know. Some things you just gotta throw at the wall. The Indie God thing, It was supposed to be a one night spoof. Just come out dressed as Indiana Jones one night. But I saw the match on social media and I realized that I got something here. And now I’m selling phone figures, hats, micro rollers, figures, and stickers. like I’m making so much money off something else, mostly a one night spoof. So you just have to capitalize and be aware of what your audience wants,” said Cardona.
As the wrestlers take a trip down memory lane, their stories provide a poignant reminder of the deep connection between the squared circle and the city that has played host to some of the most unforgettable moments in wrestling history. Starrcast 2023 is not just an event; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of wrestling in the Windy City.
AEW Superstar Will “Powerhouse” Hobbs, who had his match against Miro on AEW All Out this past weekend, told us at Starrcast that the fans are the best part of Chicago.
“Every time we come here, it’s a banger for me. just specially being in front of the Chicago crowd. I’ve said in a few interviews that the fans of Chicago let you know how they feel and they bring a different vibe,” he said, adding that one of his favorite hip hop artists is Ice Cube when asked about the 50th anniversary of the music genre.
AEW Superstar Skye Blue, who is a Chicago native, shared the same sentiment about the fans while also explaining that she has navigated the grueling 12-hour car rides and wrestled in venues practically within walking distance. Reflecting on her experiences, Skye Blue considers the worst scenario to be the unfortunate convergence of a flat tire and a traffic ticket on the very same day, a frustrating twist in the wrestling journey. Conversely, her best moments on the road are exemplified by the sheer simplicity of a quick five-minute drive to the show, where convenience reigns supreme, and she finds himself right at the heart of the action.
“I love Chicago. It’s very heartfelt to me that I get to represent Chicago for AEW. So I’m just very grateful that I get to say I’m from Chicago for AEW and I’ve done so many indies throughout Chicago,” she said.
Ricky Starks told us that he has a deep respect for the people of Chicago because they’ve treated him so nicely. Starks cited that the day before Starrcast, someone just stopped him to meet him and was so polite and kind and very encouraging.
“That’s the thing, fans are very encouraging for someone who kind of had to give himself his own encouragement when I was growing up. I had some fans come up to me and they recognized me on the street and they were very sweet people. And this was two years ago when I wasn’t on the All Out pay per view. And I vowed that the next year, I would be and I did. And now I’d vowed that I would do something bigger and better,” he said.
Also to note, WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett took the stage to talk about Chicago at Starrcast. When Jeff Jarrett took the stage at the Starrcast panel, the room buzzed with anticipation.
With a career spanning decades, Jarrett’s presence was a testament to his enduring legacy in the wrestling world. As he settled into his seat, fans and fellow wrestling enthusiasts hung on his every word. Jarrett delved into the storied chapters of his career, sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes and memorable encounters with some of the industry’s biggest names.
His charismatic storytelling, coupled with his passion for the sport, had the audience captivated, making his Starrcast appearance a truly unforgettable moment for all in attendance. It was a rare opportunity to hear firsthand from a wrestling icon whose contributions continue to shape the industry.
Excitement reaches a fever pitch as STARZ announces the long-awaited return of “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” with its third season set to debut on December 1.
Fans can mark their calendars for the thrilling journey ahead, as STARZ reveals tantalizing first-look photos that offer a glimpse into the riveting narrative. The highly anticipated new episodes of “Raising Kanan” will be available for streaming on the STARZ app and on-demand platforms, while also captivating audiences on linear television in the U.S., Canada, and internationally on the LIONSGATE+ premium streaming platform in the U.K. and Ireland.
In the heart of Southside Jamaica, Queens, the main character’s tumultuous journey resumes right where it left off at the conclusion of season two. The aftermath of the Mob’s relentless assault on Raquel, Marvin, and Lou-Lou reverberates through the narrative, leaving emotions high and the stakes even higher.
As the captivating drama unfolds, viewers can anticipate the introduction of new cast members who will further enrich the storyline. Wendell Pierce and Erika Woods take on the roles of “Snaps” and “Pop” Henry, while Grantham Coleman steps into the shoes of “Ronnie.” These fresh faces join the ensemble, adding depth to the already gripping ensemble.
Returning to the screen are familiar favorites, including the incomparable Patina Miller, reprising her role as “Raquel Thomas,” and MeKai Curtis, captivating audiences once more in the titular role of “Kanan Stark.” The engaging narrative promises to explore the intricate web of relationships and challenges that continue to shape the Thomas family’s destiny.
As anticipation builds, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” is gearing up for a new chapter filled with twists, turns, and unmissable moments. With the premiere date locked in, fans can look forward to being transported back into the vibrant and gritty world of Queens, where loyalties are tested, alliances shift, and the pursuit of power knows no bounds.
As it stands, there is nothing holding the second season of Power Book IV: Force back from making it a thrilling adventure to look forward to.
Particularly due to the fact that Tommy Egan has now become a wanted man, both in the eyes of the Flynn family, as well as the police force, who want him dead, and the federal government who are trying to capture him. With this, he forms an unlikely partnership with one of the main characters from the previous season. As far as I can tell, it is a perfect pairing so far.
Social media is being used to sell products via a hidden message this season of Force. I like this approach because it shows that the dealers can use their creativity to plan the way they want to spread the message in a way that best appeals to them. It is however important to keep in mind that this will also come with a heavy consequence that will stay with us for the remainder of the season.
Jenard and Diamond are now at war with each other due to the events from the previous season. It is always good to see a sibling rivalry and I am interested to see where this will go. Also for the characters, there is good development outside of this war with the both of them. More so on Jenard as it feels like he is no longer a one-dimensional character anymore and now has a motive to get things done.
Gloria and Liliana’s deaths are mourned early on and Vic is not taking it well. What I am curious about down the line, is how this will affect his standing in the family as he and Claudia are expecting Tommy to kill her. But the both of them also want nothing to do with their father. However, I will not spoil it here, but I should warn you that the recipe for Dahlia is in deep danger.
Tommy is also dealing with the death of Liliana as he is on a mission to find out who was involved. Also to note, there are new characters that will be a focal point of this season of Force that you may not want to miss.
Overall, I was pleased with Power Book IV: Force’s first episode of its second season, as it met all my expectations and kept me wanting to see more. There is also no doubt that the core cast of the show did an excellent job of acting and delivering the lines as everything was extremely natural and authentic.
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