We’re witnessing a monumental return to high-octane, over-the-top action comedies, and here at HMU, we’re all in. So it was a pleasant surprise to hear that Tubi and Raven Banner were releasing "Don’t Mess With Grandma" (internationally known as "Sunset Superman"), directed and written by Jason Krawczyk.
In the film, we meet JT (Michael Jai White), a man who can’t seem to get much right. Though content with his routine, one task remains a challenge: caring for his grandma (Jackie Richardson). One night, a group of intruders invades her house, and it's up to JT—and possibly some unexpected help—to survive the night. Michael Jai White shines as the non-binary, Dio-loving hero you didn’t see coming, bringing all the laughs and action his name promises. And as for Billy Zane—well, his character needs to be experienced to be believed.
Don’t Mess With Grandma succeeds on many levels, offering a fresh blend of comedy and sensibility that’s often missing from more traditionally masculine narratives. The cast is stellar, with each character adding layers to the hilarity. If you mixed Nothing But Trouble and The Ladykillers with Straw Dogs or Panic Room, you’d capture the vibe of Don’t Mess With Grandma. One of the standout achievements of this film is how it brings characters like JT to life—characters we all know but rarely see on screen.
Michael Jai White’s portrayal of JT breaks stereotypes, particularly for Black men growing up in predominantly white environments. Many Black metalheads will resonate with JT’s character, thinking, “Finally, we see one of us!” It’s as vital as any other role in the film, representing an often-overlooked trope in horror, previously seen with actors like Miguel A. Núñez Jr., a dark-skinned Latin man who brought a similar presence to "Return of the Living Dead". It’s important to showcase diverse characters, and credit goes to Jason and White for creating JT.
Billy Zane will leave you speechless with his absurd performance as the leader of the invaders, while Jackie Richardson’s comedic timing is so sharp, you’ll want to rewatch the film just to catch all her antics. Funny, relevant, and packed with carnage, "Don’t Mess With Grandma" is an unexpected treat for film lovers of all kinds.
4.5/5
Don't Mess with Grandma / Sunset Superman
Directed and written by Jason Krawczyk
Starring Micheal Jai White, Miles Faber, Billy Zane, Jackie Richardson and Brandon Knox.
Комментарии