Arts

Ridley Scott, 86, proves age is no barrier with Gladiator 2 and a storied career of blockbusters

18At 86 years old, Ridley Scott is showing no signs of slowing down. As the acclaimed director returns with Gladiator 2, a sequel to his 2000 Oscar-winning epic, Gladiator, Scott proves once again that age is no obstacle to creating ambitious, large-scale films.
Over a remarkable career spanning five decades, Scott has crafted some of cinema's most iconic films, moving seamlessly between genres and creating a legacy that blends artistry with blockbuster entertainment.
As a lifelong fan of Scott’s work, it’s hard not to feel immense excitement and admiration as he takes on yet another massive project. His films have a signature look and feel — an attention to detail, a sense of grandeur, and an exploration of humanity in the face of adversity. Watching Scott’s movies is like being transported to another world, and his unparalleled ability to create such immersive stories has solidified him as one of the most influential directors of our time.
Scott’s Hollywood journey began with Alien (1979), a groundbreaking sci-fi horror that introduced the terrifying xenomorph and catapulted Sigourney Weaver to stardom. Known for its claustrophobic atmosphere and meticulous practical effects, Alien showcased Scott’s gift for suspense and for designing visually striking worlds.
It quickly became a classic, setting the standard for sci-fi horror and securing Scott’s reputation as a director capable of blending cerebral concepts with terrifying realism.
Then came Blade Runner in 1982, a film that struggled initially at the box office but would ultimately become one of the most influential movies in cinema history. Set in a dystopian future, Blade Runner explored profound themes of identity, humanity, and technology. Scott’s hauntingly beautiful portrayal of Los Angeles drenched in neon lights and perpetual rain, captured the imaginations of generations of fans and filmmakers alike.
Today, Blade Runner is regarded as a sci-fi masterpiece, praised not only for its visual aesthetics but also for the questions it raises about what it means to be human.
For me, Legend holds a special place in Ridley Scott’s filmography, standing out as a mesmerizing fantasy that captures both the whimsy and darkness of fairy tales. Released in 1985, Legend is a visual feast, brimming with lush forests, mythical creatures, and an unforgettable sense of enchantment.
Scott’s meticulous attention to detail shines in every frame, from the shimmering landscapes to the haunting beauty of the sinister Darkness, brought to life by Tim Curry’s towering performance. There’s a delicate balance between innocence and menace that makes Legend feel both timeless and haunting. It’s a film that, for me, showcases Scott's ability to take viewers to otherworldly places, blending his masterful visuals with a story that’s both mystical and deeply human.
Scott didn’t limit himself to sci-fi and fantasy; his versatility is evident in Thelma & Louise (1991), a landmark film in feminist cinema. The road movie, starring Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, captured the trials and tribulations of two women pushing back against societal expectations.
The film received critical acclaim, earning Scott an Academy Award nomination for Best Director. Thelma & Louise showed that Scott was just as capable of handling complex, character-driven narratives as he was of orchestrating sci-fi worlds.
However, it was Gladiator (2000) that cemented Scott’s status as a director who could create a blockbuster on a grand, almost mythical scale. Gladiator was a cinematic spectacle, sweeping audiences into the brutal and beautiful world of ancient Rome.
The film starred Russell Crowe as Maximus, a betrayed Roman general who seeks vengeance against the corrupt emperor who murdered his family. Winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Gladiator was hailed for its epic storytelling, unforgettable score, and visceral fight scenes. For Scott, Gladiator was more than just a film—it was a modern myth that demonstrated his ability to balance commercial appeal with artistic depth.
Over the years, Scott continued to produce hit after hit. He ventured into horror again with Hannibal (2001), the intense war drama Black Hawk Down (2001), and the sweeping Crusades epic Kingdom of Heaven (2005). His Alien prequels, Prometheus (2012) and Alien: Covenant (2017), revisited the universe he’d built decades earlier, exploring the origins of the xenomorph and delving into existential questions about creation, faith, and fear.
Last year’s Napoleon (2023) marked Scott’s return to historical epic filmmaking, starring Joaquin Phoenix as the infamous French leader. Known for its breathtaking battle scenes and intimate portrayal of Napoleon’s complicated relationship with his wife, Josephine, Napoleon reaffirmed Scott’s masterful command of the historical genre and his ability to bring depth to larger-than-life figures.
Even in his mid-80s, Scott’s vision remains as sharp as ever, and his dedication to crafting visually rich and thought-provoking films is truly inspiring.
And now, Scott is back with Gladiator 2, one of the most highly anticipated sequels of the decade. While much of the plot remains under wraps, the film is expected to follow the story of Lucius, the young son of Lucilla (played by Connie Nielsen in the original), and feature a stellar cast, including Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan, and Denzel Washington. Given Scott’s skill at bringing history to life, fans are eagerly awaiting his return to ancient Rome, hoping to once again feel that mix of awe and adrenaline that defined Gladiator.
Gladiator 2 will be screening at the Cameo Art House Theatre, a perfect venue for fans to experience Scott’s work in a more intimate, art-house environment.
What makes Ridley Scott’s career especially remarkable is his constant evolution. While many filmmakers slow down as they age, Scott’s ambition and innovation have only grown. He embraces new technologies, experiments with storytelling techniques, and continues to attract top talent, proving that he is just as relevant and daring as he was when he made Alien and Blade Runner.
As a dedicated fan of Ridley Scott, seeing him still creating with such energy and enthusiasm is profoundly inspiring. His films don’t just entertain—they challenge, provoke, and transport us to worlds beyond our imagination.
Whether it’s the tension in a dimly lit corridor in Alien, the rain-soaked cityscapes of Blade Runner, or the thunderous clashes of gladiators in the Roman Colosseum, Scott’s artistry remains a constant reminder of the power of cinema. At 86, he’s a living legend, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in film and leaving an indelible mark on generations of moviegoers.
With Gladiator 2, Scott is once again proving that his creative fire burns as brightly as ever. The film promises to be a fitting addition to his legacy—an epic journey filled with drama, action, and the timeless themes that make his work so compelling.
Gladiator 2 fights its way into Nov. 21 at the Cameo Art House Theatre in downtown Fayetteville. Advanced tickets are on sale at cameoarthouse.com

(Graphic courtesy of the Cameo Art House Theatre)

MU to Exhibit The Passing by Bill Viola

14Methodist University is unveiling a unique video art exhibit that is free and open to the public next month.
MU’s Division of Fine & Performing Arts will be hosting an Opening Reception and debuting a screening of The Passing by the late video artist Bill Viola at the David McCune International Art Gallery on Saturday, Nov. 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Additional screenings will be held Nov. 23 and Dec. 6, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., and all the screenings/reception are free for anyone to attend.
Created by Viola — who died in July — The Passing hauntingly travels the terrains of the conscious, the subconscious, and the desert landscapes of the Southwest, melding sleep, dreams, and the drama of waking life into a stunning masterpiece.
Viola places himself at the center of the personal exploration of altered time and space by representing mortality in the forms of a glistening newborn baby, his deceased mother, and the artist himself, floating and submerged under water.
“The reconsideration of this vital work is of timely importance,” said Andrew Prieto, MU’s assistant professor of art and curator of visual art exhibitions, who organized the exhibit in collaboration with Electronic Arts Intermix and Bill Viola Studio.
“Not only due to the artist’s passing, but for its spiritual significance in these troublesome times. The Passing reminds us that our time here is finite and invites us to look deeper at our lives in the world around us.”
Methodist University’s Division of Fine & Performing Arts includes various undergraduate programs including Art, Art Education, and Graphic Design.
Since its opening in 2010, the David McCune International Gallery has been Fayetteville’s premiere art venue, featuring works from traveling exhibitions (Warhol, Picasso, Rembrandt, and more), fine art on loan from museum collections throughout the world, and work by Methodist University students.
Funding for this program is provided by The William Frederick Bethune Fund for the Arts of Cumberland Community Foundation, Inc.
For questions regarding the exhibit, email Prieto at aprieto@methodist.edu.

(Graphic courtesy of Methodist University)

The Gilbert Theater presents A Christmas Story

9No other holiday brings out the spirit of the season like Christmas. Each family has traditions that make this time of the year special and unique from church services, special foods, visits with Santa’s and movies; every year brings the nostalgic familiarity of childhood joy. The season is marked by iconic symbolism that sparks the spirit and marks the subconscious ribbon cutting of Christmas time. Nothing says “tis the season” like seeing iconic holiday films flood the airwaves and streaming services.
A Christmas Story is one such movie and the Gilbert Theater is bringing the beloved holiday classic to the stage from Nov. 22 through Dec. 8. Relive some of the most iconic theatrical moments from the stage. Showtimes are Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. General admission tickets are $22 and can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/4hCNp1E or at the box office at the Gilbert Theater.
A Christmas Story is one of the most iconic Christmas movies, with lines like “I Triple-Dog-Dare You!” and “Some men are Baptists, others Catholics; my father was an Oldsmobile man.”
The Gilbert Theater website describes the adapted stage play as, “Based on the 1983 film, Philip Grecian’s play brings humorist Jean Shepherd's memoir of growing up in the midwest in the 1940s to the stage as we follow 9-year-old Ralphie in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher, and even Santa Claus himself at Higbee's Department Store. The consistent response is ‘You'll shoot your eye out!’ All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here...”
The cast is full of exceptional veteran talent as well as some amazing up and coming actors.
Main Cast Lineup
Katie Herring- “Mother”
A Fayetteville native, Herring is currently a Theater Instructor at Fayetteville Technical Community College. While she hasn’t hit the stage as an actor in a while, she’s excited about dusting off her skills in her role as Mother.
“I haven’t done a whole lot of acting, as of late. I have been focusing most of my attention on directing … I love directing, but I wanted to be on the other side of things,” Herring said.
Herring admits that playing a woman in a different, less modern time has pushed her to leave her own personal ideals at the door. The character still very much resonates with modern women, explaining, “[Mother] is earnest. She loves her husband; she loves her kids. She just wants what’s best for them, but still holds them to a standard and so it’s all very pure and on the surface.”

James Dean- “The Old Man”
A Gilbert Theater veteran, Dean graced its stage for the first time in 1998. A holiday production regular, Dean is most Gilbert famous for his iconic role as Scrooge. Stepping into the role of the Old Man, is a slight and fun deviation from his normal character.
“I’ve done about over 70 plays in my life. I started acting in 1975, so there I am, playing the Old Man. And he’s not called the Old Man because he’s old, ok? He’s called the Old Man because he’s the old man. The Old Man of the family. I’m looking forward to playing with this role. It’s a lot of fun already. He gets chased by dogs and it is pretty funny stuff. I’m getting into it already. It’s just overplaying everything and having a good time,” Dean said.

Denny Orr- “Ralph”
Taking on what could be seen as the most integral role of the production, Ralph, the narrator, is Denny Orr.
“This is my first production at the Gilbert. I’m really enjoying it so far. [I’m coming] from the other side of the world, over there in Southern Pines where I’ve played for just a few shows. [I] caught the bug again about 2 years ago, before that was high school, so this has been a little bit of a journey.
"And what a journey it is. I’m playing Ralph, the narrator, and the fun part of this is this is my memory, dream scenario, everybody plays on the stage, and no one can see me and I interact with all of them, so it’s a hoot. It’s a lot of fun: narrating and speaking to the audience about what is about to happen, what has happened and just playing with the entire scene. I’m really really enjoying it and I’m really looking forward to it all coming together,” Orr said.

CJ Savoy- “Ralphie”
Playing one of the many kid roles is CJ Savoy, an up-and-coming actor who is just getting started with the Gilbert.
“This is maybe my fifteenth show ever and it’s my third show at the Gilbert. My first show was actually last season. I was in Assassins. I was the little boy,” Savoy said. With A Christmas Story releasing over 4 decades ago, Savoy, like many of the kid actors, had to watch the movie for the first time when they were cast. Savoy, who was not the biggest fan, said, “I watched it a day before the first rehearsal. I’m going to be honest… kind of mid.”
But watching a movie and starring in a play production are two totally different things, and Savoy has enjoyed stepping into the role of young Ralphie.
“It’s my first lead ever that’s not at school, and that’s really fun for me, [Because] I just get to do a lot more stuff [than] I have been. I like being busy and also, it’s way easier than I thought it was going to be because Denny has most of the lines. Most of my lines are one to five words. That’s nice,” Savoy said.

Oliver Benander- “Ralphie”
Oliver Benander is another up-and-coming actor on the Gilbert stage. “This is the fourth main stage show. My first play, really. My first main stage play, and I don’t know how many shows I’ve done,” Benander said. While Benander may agree with Savoy on the ease of this production, he does have a different take on the movie, saying, “I think my favorite part of this, I expected it to be, like CJ said, harder. And I used to watch A Christmas Story, the movie, every Christmas, but I kinda like slowly stopped. But I’ve seen the full movie. I think it’s pretty good.”

Sylvia Dean- “Randy”
Stepping into the role of Ralphie’s little brother, is Sylvia Dean. No stranger to the main stage or the Gilbert, Dean is bringing all the fun in her role.
“This is my third main stage at the Gilbert and the Gilbert is the only main stage I’ve done. I’ve done a couple at school and a couple at CFRT summer camps. I’m playing as Randy. I’m really enjoying this role. I love the character. And also not a lot of lines I have to memorize,” Dean said.
Much like her counterpart, Dean was very familiar with A Christmas Story before she was cast saying, “It’s awesome. And I really like the cast. They’re all great too. My dad has us watch it every year. Every single year. I like it a lot. I think it’s really funny and a good Christmas story.”

The stage production has been an utter delight for the cast and Matt Lamb, Producing Second Stage and Education Director. Lamb is making his directorial debut with this production. “I’ve done a lot of shows here but I’ve never directed a show. I did direct some of the GLEE shows. This is my very first main stage, Gilbert show,” Lamb said. Because A Christmas Story is such an iconic movie, Lamb and the cast know that there is an expectation when fans walk through the doors. Lamb explained, “My job is to help the actors tell the story that everyone knows. Everyone knows this story and if you don’t this is a gateway into the film. This is based off the film. So, a lot, 99 percent of what is in that film is in this script, with a few little extra things they put in there for the stage version. Those who know it will be able to almost recite everything. They know it’s coming.”
While taking in the show, attendees can also give back during the season of giving. The Gilbert Theater is partnering with a local nonprofit to provide food and toys for area families in need.
“The Gilbert Theater along with Second Stage and our new charity will be partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank to collect non perishable food items and toys during our holiday show. And they will be donated at the end of the showing,” Lamb said.
This production is set to be a fun, nostalgic and timeless classic, from the enthusiastic cast to the talented director, A Christmas Story will be sure to delight family members of all ages.

(Graphic courtesy of Gilbert Theater's Facebook page)

FSO Explores Handel's Famous Composition

10Prepare to be swept away by the grandeur and elegance of Baroque music as the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra presents Handel's “Water Music” Suite. This highly anticipated concert will take place on Saturday, Nov. 23, at the historic St. John's Episcopal Church located at 302 Green Street. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., allowing guests to soak in the beautiful surroundings before the concert begins at 7:30 p.m.
Commissioned by King George I in 1717, Handel's 'Water Music' is a collection of orchestral movements that were originally performed on a barge on the River Thames. The suite is known for its lively dance movements, including minuets, bourrées, and hornpipes, which entertained the royal audience and the public alike during a grand river procession.
The 'Water Music' suite is divided into three parts and showcases Handel's exceptional ability to compose music that is both grand and accessible. Its joyful and buoyant melodies have made it a favorite for both formal occasions and casual listening, ensuring its place in the canon of great Baroque music.
The concert will feature a chamber orchestra of twenty musicians from the Fayetteville Symphony, many of whom are familiar faces to regular attendees. Under the skilled leadership of Concertmaster Fabian Lopez, who amazed audiences last year with a sold-out performance of Vivaldi's “Four Seasons,” the ensemble is set to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Joining him are other notable performers such as Principal Bassist Rebecca Marland and Second Oboe Ron Ford, both of whom have captivated audiences in the FSO’s Symphony on Tap series. These talented musicians bring a wealth of expertise and passion to their performances, making each concert a unique and memorable event.
St. John's Episcopal Church is not only a historic and beautiful venue but also offers exceptional acoustics that enhance the musical experience. Music Director Stefan Sanders expresses his enthusiasm for performing Baroque music in this intimate and inviting space, noting how the church’s architecture and ambiance perfectly complement the intricate compositions of the Baroque era. Attendees will enjoy the unique opportunity to hear Handel’s music in a setting that truly brings out the nuances and richness of the performance, making the evening even more special.
Tickets for this enchanting evening are available for purchase online at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/, by contacting the FSO office at 910-433-4690, or at the door on the night of the concert. The FSO is pleased to offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, college students, children, and Cumberland County Schools employees, ensuring that everyone can experience this remarkable performance.
Join the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra for an evening of musical magic as they bring Handel’s timeless compositions to life in the enchanting setting of St. John’s Episcopal Church. This is an event that promises to captivate the hearts and minds of all who attend.

(Photo: The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra will be playing Handel's "Water Music Suite" on Nov. 23. Photo courtesy of FSO's Facebook Page)

Evolution of Oz: From ‘The Wizard of Oz’ to the New Wicked Movie, A Timeless Story Continues to Enchant Generations

    ONLINE For over eight decades, The Wizard of Oz has captured hearts across the globe, transforming from a beloved children’s book into a timeless tale that spans novels, films, musicals, and now an eagerly anticipated new film adaptation of Wicked. Each generation has seen Oz evolve, weaving itself into popular culture and holding an enduring place in the public imagination. With fans anticipating the release of Wicked, it’s a perfect time to look at how Oz continues to captivate, inspire, and resonate through new adaptations. The world first met Dorothy Gale, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion in 1900 with L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The story follows young Dorothy as she is swept away from her Kansas home to the magical land of Oz, where she journeys to meet the Wizard and find her way back home. Along the way, she learned the value of courage, empathy, and self-belief, discovering the simple yet profound truth that “there’s no place like home.” Baum’s book was the first of 14 in his Oz series, and its universal themes have
resonated deeply, prompting readers to keep returning to its pages for over a century.
     In 1939, MGM brought the story to the big screen in a landmark adaptation that would become one of Hollywood’s most iconic films. Starring a young Judy Garland as Dorothy, the film captured the essence of Baum’s vision while adding charm and wonder with then-revolutionary special effects, lavish sets, and unforgettable songs, especially “Over the Rainbow.” It was a film like no other at the time: audiences were transported from the muted, sepia tones of Kansas to the vibrant Technicolor dreamscape of Oz, meeting memorable characters along the way and witnessing Dorothy’s transformation. The film became a staple in American cinema and culture, inspiring adaptations and references that would cement it in the hearts of audiences worldwide. By the late 20th century, it had become one of the most-watched films of all time. Dorothy’s journey—a timeless story of self-discovery, friendship, and the yearning for home—became a universal metaphor for audiences who found themselves returning to Oz again and again, in theaters, on television, and even in school productions.
     Like so many kids growing up in the VHS era, I first watched The Wizard of Oz in a unique way—right after Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman, all recorded onto the same tape from TV. To me, Oz was forever linked with the cozy glow of Christmas. I remember watching it bundled up in pajamas, waiting for Dorothy’s journey down the Yellow Brick Road as if it were part of a holiday tradition, with commercials filled with jingling bells, snowy scenes, and toy store ads all reminding me of Christmas magic. Watching it that way made The Wizard of Oz feel like a holiday movie, so much so that for years, I was convinced it must have some connection to Christmas. Even now, whenever I rewatch it, I can almost hear those Christmas commercials and feel the same warmth I felt sitting in front of the TV on those
wintery nights. 
     As time went on, The Wizard of Oz continued to influence culture. In 1995, novelist Gregory Maguire introduced a new vision of Oz with his bestselling novel Wicked: The Life and Times of  
the Wicked Witch of the West. Where the original story centered on Dorothy, Wicked shifted focus to a new protagonist: the Wicked Witch of the West, named Elphaba. Maguire’s novel reimagined her as a misunderstood and complex character rather than a one-dimensional villain. This fresh perspective offered a darker, more layered story of Oz that asked, “What if the ‘bad guys’ weren’t as wicked as they seemed?”
Maguire’s novel gave us insight into Oz’s darker corners and introduced gray areas that challenged the binary morality of Baum’s original tale. Readers were introduced to Glinda the Good Witch as a layered, sometimes conflicted character, and Oz itself became a place fraught with political and social tensions. Maguire provided a modern commentary on issues like prejudice, power, and the fluidity of morality, showing readers that every story has more than one side. The novel’s success revealed a hunger among fans for nuanced storytelling within the familiar world of Oz.
     In 2003, Wicked made its way to the Broadway stage, transformed into a musical by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman. The adaptation took liberties with Maguire’s novel, focusing on the friendship and rivalry between Elphaba and Glinda, and infusing the story with memorable songs, including the now-iconic “Defying Gravity.” Wicked the musical quickly became a global phenomenon, breaking box office records and winning numerous awards. Audiences were drawn to the heart of the musical—the unlikely bond between two young women navigating the complexities of friendship, destiny, and self-identity.
      When I first went to college, Wicked was the big thing. It was everywhere—in conversations, on posters, in people’s playlists. As someone just stepping into the college theater department, I felt a bit out of place. Most people around me seemed to have grown up on Broadway cast albums, while I was more familiar with movies taped off TV and watching holiday specials. But then I listened to Wicked for the first time. I was drawn in by the powerful songs and the complex, layered story of Elphaba and Glinda. I fell in love with it, not just because the music was incredible, but because the story of an outsider finding her place resonated deeply with me. As I got deeper into theater, Wicked became a bridge, connecting me with others and helping me see how musicals could carry stories just as moving and powerful as any film. It was my first real step into the world of musicals, and it’s stayed close to my heart ever since. 
     With the success of the stage musical, a Wicked film adaptation was inevitable. Fans are now eagerly awaiting its release, which is poised to bring all the magic, drama, and musical grandeur of the stage production to the big screen. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, and directed by In the Heights’s Jon M. Chu, the Wicked movie promises to introduce a fresh visual interpretation of Oz that stays faithful to the story’s beloved themes while inviting new fans into its enchanting world. 
     The enduring appeal of Oz lies in its ability to be reimagined. Whether watching Dorothy confront the Wicked Witch, seeing Elphaba defy gravity, or experiencing Glinda’s transformation, Oz remains a mirror reflecting our desires, challenges, and dreams. Its characters and themes continue to evolve, reminding us of the importance of empathy, understanding, and, above all, the search for belonging.
     As Wicked makes its way to theaters, the Oz legacy grows, proving that this magical land is more than a setting. It’s a place where characters—whether innocent farm girls or misunderstood witches—embark on personal journeys that resonate universally.  Today, as in 1939, Oz remains a source of enchantment and inspiration, a place where audiences of all ages find themselves drawn to the call of the Yellow Brick Road, eager to follow along and see where it leads. 
     With each new chapter in the Oz saga, fans are reminded that while stories may change, their heart remains constant. Oz is a timeless journey, a reminder that courage, friendship, and the strength to be true to oneself are values that transcend time. And as we prepare for the Wicked movie to join the legacy, it’s clear that audiences will keep returning to Oz—finding something new with each visit and always feeling just a little more at home in the magical world of Oz. 
     Wicked flies into November 21st at the Cameo Art House Theatre in downtown Fayetteville. Tickets on sale at cameoarthouse.com

Latest Articles

  • What we have learned from this election
  • The last of the Baby Boomers
  • Fayetteville looks to shake title ‘America’s least walkable city’
  • School board faces lawsuit discrimination lawsuit
  • Discover Holiday Lights in the Garden
  • Raeford-Hoke Chamber celebrates the holiday season
Up & Coming Weekly Calendar
  

Advertise Your Event:

Login/Subscribe