Broadway in Tucson Review: 'Beetlejuice'

Capitalizing on the Beetlejuicemania brought on by the September movie sequel, the stage musical version of "Beetlejuice" hits at just the right time, dripping in 1980s nostalgia with a fresh coat of black and white-striped paint to give the boisterous Tim Burton vision a fresh touch.

The show brims with spectacular effects, from a monolithic Sandworm puppet to clever use of projections in transitions, paired with masterful stagecraft that recreates the look and feel of the 1988 film, which inspired the musical ran on Broadway from 2019 to 2023 and spawned a national tour that began in 2022.

Eddie Perfect's music and lyrics sparkle with wit and subversive humor, bolstering the book by Scott Brown and Anthony King. But no matter how intricate the visuals, stagecraft and script, the musical wouldn't have a ghost of a chance if not for a commanding lead.

"Beetlejuice" has that and a half in the indomitable Justin Collette. The Broadway veteran and YouTube voice of  the viral sensation "Bite on Mondo," Collette thrives in a whirlwind performance that would make Michael Keaton gasp in awe. Part Deadpool, part Bugs Bunny with a side of Robin Williams, Collette's crackling delivery, fourth wall-shattering stage presence and monstrous magnetism commands the stage so much that it feels like a letdown whenever there's a number that doesn't involve him. Sure, the guy needs to rest, but he's sorely missed with the meandering plot puffs up filler material to pad out the runtime.

Other standouts include Madison Mosley as drenched-in-ennui Lydia, the goth teen protagonist, Megan McGinnis as the stifled domestic goddess ghost, Barbara, and the electric Sarah Litzsinger as Lydia's would-be stepmom, Delia. A voracious actor who underlines her jokes with full-body expression, Litzsinger swipes most of the scenes not claimed by the green-haired trickster demon.

I found myself chuckling throughout, and sometimes laughing embarrassingly hard at the onstage antics. The non-Beetlejuice high point is undoubtedly the business dinner interrupted by a spiritual possession that results in an impromptu rendition of the iconic "Banana Boat" (Day-O) conga line.

With its light touch and silly tone, "Beetlejuice" proudly wears its B-production pedigree on its tattered sleeve. All energies are channeled forcefully toward helping the audience have a giddily good time, and that task is accomplished masterfully. That's something that's worth saying twice, or maybe even three times.

"Beetlejuice" plays through Dec. 8 at Centennial Hall. Buy tickets here.

Book Report: 'Hillbilly Elegy'

 

Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What started off as sort of a fearful hate-read of the premature autobiography of the man most likely to be our next president resulted in a disarming appreciation of a smart man who overcame a rough start in life with class, hustle and humility.

I had already watched the Netflix movie years before, and forgot it as soon as the credits rolled. The book is much more. An even-handed, insightful personal essay on the dissolution of the middle class and fall of Appalachia, Vance's book is also a solid how-to guide on how to thrive when coming from an impoverished, abuse-riddled background.

Now, with perspective, it is clear that this was not a premature autobiography. Instead, it is absolutely necessary that Vance wrote it when he did, before he was swept away and warped by Trumpism. This may be the only time in his life that he had enough experience, as well as intellectual purity, to tell such an honest story without turning it into an angry, self-serving political screed.

I respect the book, as well as the man Vance was before he joined the Trump administration. Here's hoping he maintains his soul as he chases his political ambitions further down the rabbit hole.

View all my reviews

Game Review: 'River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next'

When anime and 8-bit gaming conventions collide, "River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next" is what arises from the rubble. The incongruous pairing makes for an invigorating mix of light RPG and brawlers conventions.

Working under the banner of Arc System Works, developer R-Force Entertainment channels its passion for the River City franchise into the awkward, yet oddly satisfying historical fit. The new game is a direct sequel to the 2022 outing "River City Saga: Three Kingdoms."

Set in the famed Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history, in which the Cao Wei, Shu Han, and Eastern Wu reigned over China from 220 to 280 AD after the conclusion of the Han dynasty, you play through the dialogue-rich story and engage in quick-hitting, beat-em-up battles reminiscent of the older "River City" games.

More than 100 River City characters take on the guises of historical figures over the six-chapter story. For instance, Kunio plays Guan Yu, Misako is Zhuge Liang, Goda is Liu Bei, Yamada is Cao Cao, Toraichi is Huang Zhong and Tobioka is Sima Yi.

Playing as hero Guan Yu, you mix it up with the warring factions in a series of high-stakes showdowns. Upgrades, power-ups and weaponized background items abound. While the writing may not always be up to par, the combat is still as satisfying as ever.

I've been drawn to the "River City" franchise since it debuted with "River City Rampage" back in the early 1990s. While similar franchises of its ilk have come and gone, "River City" continues to keep its head above water by pivoting to wild news spinoffs and adaptations. "River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next" shows that the series is still able to adapt and adjust.

Publisher provided review code.

 

T-Mobile Reveals Black Friday, Cyber Monday Deals

Those looking to shower their friends and loved ones with communications tech should check out T-Mobile's slate of Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers.

Families looking to jump into the latest generation of Apple or Samsung offerings can consider signing up for four new lines for $100 a month with a device trade-in, landing them four free iPhone 16  or Samsung Galaxy S24.

Here is the cornucopia of offers available to current T-Mobile customers. Here are some of the standouts:

• Get a free iPhone 16 Pro, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6, Samsung Galaxy S24+ when adding a line or trading in an eligible device.

• Get a free iPhone 16, Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, Google Pixel 9 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S24 and more when adding a line or trading in an eligible device on Go5G Plus / Go5G Next.

• A free iPhone 14 when switching to T-Mobile and adding a line on most plans.

• A free Samsung Galaxy Watch7 40mm (or Google Pixel Watch 3 41mm for just $79.99) when adding a qualifying watch line.

• $400 off iPad 10th Gen 64GB OR $250 off iPad Mini A17 Pro when adding a tablet line on a qualifying plan.
• Free iPhone 16 Pro when trading in an eligible device on Go5G Next or Go5G Business Next and T-Mobile will throw in free AirPods 4.

• A free Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen 40mm (or 44mm for just $30) when adding a qualifying watch line.

• Android lovers can score big too with a free Samsung Galaxy S24+ or Google Pixel 9 Pro when trading in an eligible device on Go5G Next or Go5G Business Next and T-Mobile will add a free Samsung Galaxy Buds FE or Google Pixel Buds A-Series.
• iPhone 12 and Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen 40mm for just $99.99 when signing up for Metro Flex Plus and adding a qualifying watch line.
• Samsung Galaxy Watch FE 40mm for just $149.99 when adding a smartwatch line.

  

The T-Mobile Cyber Monday deal, available online or via the T-Life app starting Dec. 2 for a limited time. Score savings of over $1,400 with the ultimate bundle from Apple and get iPhone 16 Pro, Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen 40mm and AirPods 4 for free.

 

Starting Dec. 12, customers can get $250 off Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm or 46mm) or Apple Watch Ultra 2 when adding a qualifying watch line.

 

New and existing T-Mobile customers can receive free next day shipping and free activation when ordering a new device online or via the T-Life app.

  

T-Mobile is offering a free Amazon Fire TV 40" 2-Series HD smart TV when switching to Home Internet, Home Internet Plus or AWAY, including the 200GB or Unlimited plans.

 

This post includes information from a T-Mobile press release.

Game Review: 'Exploding Kittens VR'

Matthew Inman's 2015 card game, "Exploding Kittens," has become a party and time-killing staple that manages to teach you unsettling truths about how far your friends and family will go to win. While bringing the game to VR seems like a strange idea, it's an oddly satisfying fit that makes more sense the longer you spend with the game.

Immersing yourself in the game's splashy realm, the VR version of the game adds amply to the game's sense of ironically cute absurdity. While the card game relies on your imagination, there's something thoroughly satisfying about experiencing the game's outrageous moments in wild displays that take up your entire field of vision. A treat for the senses, "Exploding Kittens VR" makes ample use of its VR format both visually and audibly.

Like the mobile version of the game, it allows you to set up easy pickup games with online friends and strangers. Either classic or blitz mode allow five players. Cards allow you to peek into the future, steal items, deny moves and defuse the titular kittens in clutch moments.

There's also a social hub that boasts a slew of minigames and allows you to customize your character. 

The only thing holding the game back is the Meta Quest's relatively small pool of players, compared to the game's mobile base. But the social interaction available is a welcome change of pace on the Meta Quest, which bubbles with solo experiences. "Exploding Kittens VR" works as a welcome palate cleanser between more serious, labor intensive Meta Quest pastimes.

Publisher provided review code.

T-Mobile Holiday Deals roundup

T-Mobile just announced some enticing holiday offers.

New Metro customers can grab both the Apple Watch SE and iPhone 12, together as a duo for $99.99. The prepaid carrier also has started to offer the full lineup of Apple Watches, which are all available without credit checks or contracts. You can add a smartwatch line with Metro Flex Plus.

T-Mobile also got into the Black Friday action early with a slew of sales that offer $1,000 off in devices from the likes of Apple, Google, Samsung and Motorola.

Also back is the free smartphone deal with four voice lines for $100 a month. You can snag the iPhone 16 or Samsung Galaxy S24 with that offer.

Eligible trades while adding a line on plans including the Go5GNext or Go5G Plus can net you free devices, such as the iPhone 16 Pro, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6, Samsung Galaxy S24+.

New T-Mobile home internet customers can get a free Amazon Fire TV 40-inch 2-Series HD smart TV.

For the full slate of deals, check out these posts. There's also a T-Mobile holiday gift guide with all sorts of options for the tech-hungry loved ones on your list.

This post drew information from a T-Mobile press release.

Broadway in Tucson Review: 'Clue: A New Comedy'

Based on the iconic 1985 film, adapted from the ubiquitous board game, "Clue: A New Comedy" bubbles with ample sight gags, witty dialogue and an overpowering sense of whimsy.

A powerhouse cast makes the most of its considerable talent with palpable chemistry and admirable teamwork. The performers set up and execute gags with impeccable timing. 

Saucy Elisabeth Yancey swipes scenes, along with her duster, as French maid Yvette, John Tracy Egan sneers as pompous Col. Mustard, Tari Kelly oozes haughty distance as Mrs. White, Joanna Glushak emits exuberant  fizz as Mrs. Peacock, Jonathan Spivey squawks as loudmouth Professor Plum and John Shartzer stumbles with ample physical comedy as Mr. Green.The affable Jeff Skowron, as Wadsworth the butler, presides as part ringmaster, part gameshow host. 

Based on the updated 2020 book and 2022 staging at New Jersey's Paper Mill Playhouse, the setting is the United States in the 1950s Red Scare, with the rampant McCarthyism-era paranoia making creepy echoes of xenophobic waves sweeping the country in our time.

Other than a few snide quips, though, the dialogue is largely apolitical. This is good-natured fun for fans of all stripes and backgrounds. The communal laughter feels especially therapeutic in the wake of divisive electoral rhetoric.

The plot is razor-thin and all the more enjoyable because of it. The characters are called together by a mysterious puppetmaster working behind the scenes to set the stage for a prototypical whodunnit. Each character puts on a front that shelters dark secrets that come to light in an abrupt manner, giving each protagonist a damning murder motive. The interplay of self-interested, wily vanities clashing and burning in a delicate and often hilarious bonfire.

"Clue" may not have much meat on the bone, but at a svelte 75-minute, intermission-free runtime, it makes for a giddy and enjoyable bite-size night of theatrical bliss. If you allow yourself to miss it, you haven't got a clue.

"Clue: A New Comedy" plays through Nov. 17 at Centennial Hall. Buy tickets here.

Book Report: ‘The Warburgs’ by Ron Chernow

Of Ron Chernow’s epic histories, this one doesn’t quite match the level of intrigue and narrative flow of the others. 

Playing out more like a procession of snippets rather than an overarching, Shakespearean tale on the level of Grant, Hamilton, Washington and The House of Morgan, The Warburgs is a scattered, if always fascinating, tale of a sprawling family tree largely populated by powerful and influential bankers. He focuses mainly on the men while mostly giving the women only passing mentions.

The book is at its best when tacking the Warburgs’ recurring conflicts with aspects of their German and Jewish heritage that were wrought by the devastation of both World Wars, the Holocaust and establishment of Israel. 

A more focused take on three or four Warburg prime movers might have better served Chernobyl purpose. Even though this is the author’s weakest effort, I still cherished every moment with this book.

Game Review: 'Life is Strange: Double Exposure'

Bolstered by the elegant story that built the series, "Life is Strange: Double Exposure" spins a densely intricate web in the form of a dark, emotionally-charged mystery set against a coming-of-age tale of a woman in quarterlife crisis.

The 2015 release of "Life is Strange" reset the standard for adventure games, adding considerable depth and nuance to the visuals, exploration and puzzles. After a steady flow of follow-ups, including a prequel, sequel and "The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit" spinoff, "Double Exposure" is the next course in the meal.

The lead character remains Max Caulfield, a photographer-in-residence at Caledon University, a fictional locale in Vermont. After swearing off a time-rewinding power she wielded in earlier installments, Max is determined to live a life of normalcy. 

After tragedy ensues, though, she's forced to dive back even deeper into her maddening ability in order to set things right. The result is something of a split timeline, in which Max's actions in one timeline can affect something in the other one, with problems multiplying and mutating the more she meddles with the developments and investigates the mystery behind it all.

Developer Deck Nine has an ear for quiet moments of reflection, and infuses each scene with self-paced momentum that allows you to revel in the minutiae or power through toward the end goal. This is a game in which I'd strongly advice avoiding walkthroughs, because aimless stumbling often unearths some of the game's most rewarding moments.

I appreciated the game's deliberate, smooth pace, which made the turbulent moments are the more jarring and impactful. This chapter in the "Life of Strange" saga firmly establishes the franchise as one of the powerhouses in its genre. While earlier entries in the series were treated more like indie curiosities, "Double Exposure" has gotten a well-deserved blockbuster rollout, complete with a social media blitz, movie theater and TV trailers and harsh scrutiny from many game critics. 

Count me among those exceedingly pleased by this sequel. More mature and measured than past entries, this is by far my favorite "Life is Strange" entry yet. It will be fascinating to see where the franchise goes next.

Publisher provided review code.