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Extensive Media Enterprises “♫♫ You need to pump your brakes and drive slow, homie ♫♫” As August arrives and the back-to-school season shifts into gear, so does Child Safety Awareness Month. Enter Florida. This month, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is kicking off its Child Safety Awareness Campaign, encouraging motorists to “Know Their Zone” and practice defensive driving, especially around school buses, school zones and neighborhoods where children frequently play. The department, along with Florida Highway Patrol troopers and public safety partners across the state, hopes this will be the safest back-to-school season yet. Reaching that goal, officials say, requires every motorist to take safety seriously each time they get behind the wheel. “Florida continues to lead the nation in education, and with that success comes a shared responsibility to protect the children who represent our state’s future. As the school year begins, every motorist plays a critical role in ensuring students can travel safely to and from the classroom,“ said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “By slowing down, staying alert, and respecting school zones and school buses, we help safeguard the next generation of leaders who make Florida strong.” 
If you don’t ‘Know Your Zone,’ FLHSMV will give you a $400 lesson. The campaign entails more than pumping the brakes when school-zone lights flash. Drivers are also reminded to use age- and size-appropriate child restraints, watch for pedestrians, check their surroundings before backing up, and never leave a child unattended in a vehicle. “Florida Highway Patrol troopers see firsthand the impact that speeding, distraction, and unsafe decisions can have on our communities, especially around schools and school buses. As students return to class, we urge all motorists to Know Their Zone, put safety first, and stay vigilant. A moment of inattention can lead to tragedy, but a moment of caution can save a life. Together, we can create a safer environment for every child on every road,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. The Legislature has also done its part to curtail preventable tragedies, passing HB 657 and SB 766 in 2023. The measures authorized counties and municipalities to use automated cameras to catch school-zone speeders and school districts to use stop-arm cameras to catch drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses. Passing a stopped school bus is more than inconsiderate; it puts children directly in danger. The Legislature made that abundantly clear in 2021 by doubling penalties to $200 for failing to stop and $400 for passing on the bus’s loading side. “As Florida’s students begin a new year, we must remember that education requires safety. Every student deserves to arrive at school ready to learn and return home safely,” added Education Commissioner Henry Mack. “That responsibility extends beyond our schools, and belongs to every motorist traveling through our communities. All drivers should slow down in school zones, remain alert around school buses, and do their part to protect Florida’s students as we begin another successful school year. I appreciate the Florida Highway Safety & Motor Vehicle’s partnership in promoting this important message and helping keep Florida’s students safe as they start the 2026-2027 school year.” For all the campaign’s warnings, speeding remains a persistent threat: More than 54,000 speeding citations were issued in work and school zones in 2025. Pay attention to posted limits and pump the brakes when you see the hallmark flashing yellow lights of a school zone. To learn more about the Child Safety Awareness Campaign, click here. But when in doubt, STFD! — “Slow the \\\\ down!” ___ Coming up, the usual assortment of news, intel, and observations from the week that was in Florida’s capital city by Peter Schorsch, Drew Wilson, Drew Dixon, Liam Fineout and the staff of Florida Politics. But first, the “Takeaway 5” — the Top 5 stories from the week that was: |
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Take 5 |
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Tone it down — Florida’s big property tax measure is still headed to the November ballot. Just not in the Legislature’s words. In an 18-page order, Leon County Circuit Judge David Frank declared the ballot title and summary for Amendment 3 “clearly and conclusively defective.” The order enjoins Secretary of State Cord Byrd from placing the current language on the General Election ballot and gives Attorney General James Uthmeier 10 days to draft a replacement that describes the amendment rather than campaigns for it. Frank was explicit that striking the amendment “is not an option” and that whether it’s a good idea “is the exclusive domain of the voters.” What can’t survive, he ruled, is a ballot statement that “does not state the basic legal purpose of the amendment; it endorses it and diverts voters from its actual effect.” Brazil bound — Daniel Perez will step down as House Speaker this month after the U.S. Senate confirmed him as Ambassador to Brazil, according to a memo he sent to House members. Perez said he has notified Secretary of State Byrd that his resignation from the House, where he represents House District 116 in Miami-Dade County, will take effect Aug. 21. Under House rules, Speaker pro tempore Wyman Duggan will assume the Speaker’s “duties, powers and prerogatives.” Perez was set to step down as Speaker in November. His sister, Ashley Perez-Biliskov, is running to succeed him in HD 116. Perez wrote that he has also cleared the way for Speaker-designate Sam Garrison’s team to “assume control over the House’s operations” on Sept. 8, giving Garrison additional time to prepare before taking the gavel. Doubling down — The Department of Justice is denying that gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds is being investigated for a federal crime, and saying his accuser James Fishback is weaponizing falsehoods. “Falsely accusing someone of being under investigation is a dangerous form of weaponization. This claim is not true. Congressman Byron Donalds is not under investigation,” the DOJ Rapid Response account said Friday, seemingly closing the book on an unsubstantiated claim by Fishback. Fishback called a news conference Thursday to allege the Justice Department was probing Donalds and U.S. Rep. Cory Mills for federal sex trafficking and paying for sex. He offered no documentation or proof beyond hearsay from an unidentified “governmental whistleblower.” Even though Fishback promised he would never mention the allegations after he made them Thursday, his campaign and allies immediately reneged on that. Sitting out — Gov. Ron DeSantis is staying out of the intraparty fight to succeed him. “I’m not involved in any Primaries,” the Governor said in Lehigh Acres. DeSantis said if someone is doing what he thinks it takes, he would be “happy to get involved.” But he made it clear he’s not completely sold on Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, U.S. Rep. Donalds, businessman Fishback or former House Speaker Paul Renner. He said “there’s different candidates that are doing some good things,” while some candidates “aren’t doing others,” before distinguishing running for office and holding it. Early and often — Early voting for Florida’s Primary kicks off today in most of the state’s 67 counties. Most counties will not permit early voting past Aug. 15. While many start their early voting process today, some 18 counties launched early balloting earlier this week. A dozen counties also extend the option to Aug. 16. Many regular voting precincts are not open for early voting, though most Supervisor of Elections Offices offer multiple places to cast early ballots. Those looking for locations should go to the website of their local Supervisor of Elections. Election Day for the Primary is Aug. 18. The option to request a mail-in ballot has already ended in all counties. |
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Hunting poachers |
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Attorney General James Uthmeier is intent on reducing poaching of wild game in Florida, a practice he says has gone on for too long. Uthmeier says he is drafting a bill to increase penalties for poaching. He acknowledged during a news conference at the Bay County Shooting Range in Panama City Beach that poaching in Florida has been largely overlooked and current misdemeanor charges for the activity don’t really do justice to the crime. “Poachers who unlawfully discharge firearms near Florida homes are not just stealing our wildlife, but endangering families and neighborhoods,” Uthmeier said. 
James Uthmeier is proposing felony charges for poachers. Image via Florida Attorney General’s Office. “This legislation would give prosecutors a powerful new tool to hold these reckless criminals accountable with second-degree felony charges, permanent loss of hunting privileges, and forfeiture of their weapons. Floridians deserve to feel safe in their communities, and our natural resources must be protected for future generations.” The measure that would go before lawmakers during the 2027 Legislative Session would make it a felony to commit a newly designated criminal charge of aggravated illegal taking of wildlife. The felony charges would range from third degree to first degree, with the most serious punishing poachers for discharging firearms near people or near buildings that people occupy. Penalties could range from prison time to stiff fines. Poachers would also have all hunting and fishing licenses and permits revoked permanently. They also would have to forfeit any firearm used in the commission of the crime, along with other equipment, vehicles or vessels used. |
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See you in court? |
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Attorney General Uthmeier is issuing a subpoena for Anthony Fauci, as he launches an investigation into the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Fauci had a contentious congressional hearing last week reviewing the handling of the COVID pandemic. At the time, Uthmeier posted on his social media accounts that he wanted to investigate Fauci. The scientist claimed the Fifth Amendment dozens of times during that hearing on Capitol Hill, a move designed to prevent self-incrimination. Uthmeier has lived up to his promise to investigate Fauci. In a news release, Uthmeier said the probe is looking into “awards, professional opportunities, financial incentives, grants, and COVID-19 guidance that impacted Florida businesses and consumers.” 
The Attorney General has his sights set on Anthony Fauci. Uthmeier’s action is not a solo investigation. He’s teaming up with Attorneys General John McCuskey of West Virginia and Liz Murrill of Louisiana, who are gearing up for similar investigations in those states. Uthmeier said most of his concerns emerged after Fauci’s diary was published by Republican U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky last week. Paul, the Chair of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, grilled Fauci during the hearing. “Government officials have a certain level of immunity in their official capacities, but if Fauci personally profited off of the ‘guidance’ he issued, that very well could have broken Florida law,” Uthmeier said. “Fauci’s diary focused more on self-promotion than the legitimate safety concerns from the … vaccines. While Fauci was pushing for book deals, awards, and fortune and fame, Floridians were being deceived and harmed by his misrepresentations.” |
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Landman |
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This week, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson announced the permanent protection of more than 1,675 acres of working agricultural land through the Agriculture Department’s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program (RFLPP). “When we protect working agricultural land, we’re protecting Florida’s future. Every easement we complete keeps these lands in production, strengthens our rural communities, and protects them from future development,” Simpson said. “Through historic investments in the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, we’re ensuring Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and timber producers can continue doing what they do best while preserving the landscapes and natural resources that define our state.” 
Osceola Pines is being added to a growing inventory. The latest easements cover Osceola Pines in Levy County and Patricia Flanders in Putnam County. Osceola Pines is a roughly 545-acre timber operation comprising managed pine plantations, mature cypress and a wetland hardwood basin swamp. Its $1.03 million easement was funded evenly by FDACS and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program. Patricia Flanders is a 1,131-acre timber property protected through a $1.301 million easement. Its eastern portion includes planted timber and sandhill habitat interspersed with depressional wetlands that transition into shrub and forested wetlands. The western tract includes sandhill, planted timber and riparian wetlands near Little Orange Creek and Cabbage Creek. Since RFLPP launched 25 years ago, it has protected more than 241,000 acres of working agricultural land from future development — including 176,000 acres during Simpson’s tenure. |
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Columbia crackdown |
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Off to the land of the Gamecocks. Last week, CFO Blaise Ingoglia traveled to Columbia, S.C., to sign a memorandum of understanding between the state treasury and the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. The MOU formalizes data sharing between state and federal investigators, giving them another tool to detect fraud and coordinate investigations. 
Fraudsters beware — Florida’s upping its game. “Fraudsters continue to plague our country by deceiving victims to put money into their own wallets. By solidifying our partnership with the Department of Justice, we can enhance our capabilities to root out and detect fraud faster. This collaboration sends a clear message that we are a united front with our federal government and law enforcement partners in coordinating investigations, putting more criminals behind bars, and protecting taxpayers,” Ingoglia said. While visiting the capital of the eighth state of the Union, the CFO joined officials from six other Southern states for a roundtable on expanding state-federal partnerships to combat fraud. The MOU allows payment data held by the state treasury to be shared with federal investigators to identify suspicious patterns, support criminal investigations and analyze financial crimes. The arrangement also allows the treasury to assist federal law enforcement in protecting Floridians from financial crime. |
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Instagram of the week |
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Pencil it in |
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The Legislature has set its schedule for Committee hearings ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session. The Regular Session for the Senate and House won’t get underway until March 2. But there are several weeks of Committee meetings scheduled well before that. Senate Secretary Tracy C. Cantella released the interim schedule on Monday. “This schedule is intended to provide ample time for Committee work, while allowing time in December for family and holiday celebrations,” Cantella said in her memo to lawmakers. 
Good news: Christmas isn’t ruined! Initially, the Senate will convene on Nov. 17 for “general organization and selection of officers.” The first item of work for legislators in both chambers will be training sessions that will run from Nov. 17 through Nov. 19. Cantella said more information will be coming after the General Election on Nov. 3. Legislative Committees will then begin work on addressing and formulating bills and other issues on Nov. 30. That will continue until Dec. 3. Lawmakers will return to Tallahassee on Jan. 4, picking up Committee work into the new year until Jan. 7. They return for more Committee work in both chambers from Jan. 11 to Jan. 14. February will bring three weeks of Committee work in the House and Senate running Feb. 1-4, then Feb. 8-11, and Feb. 15-18. The Regular Session will then begin March 2. |
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Liking lobster? |
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The full eight-month spiny lobster season in Florida waters got underway Thursday. Spiny lobster enthusiasts got just a taste of the pastime last week during a two-day mini-season. But the full season for both recreational and commercial harvesting runs through March 31. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulates not only the harvesting of the crustaceans, but the licensing as well. Recreational enthusiasts are required to have a saltwater fishing license with a lobster permit. 
Grab your license before grabbing one of these suckers. Other regulations require lobsters to be landed in whole condition; separating tails from the body is prohibited in Florida waters. Any lobster bearing eggs must be returned to the water, and the minimum size of the carapace must be at least 3 inches long. The carapace, the lobster shell, runs from the tail to the eyes of the lobster. The daily bag limit for recreational harvesting is six lobsters per person, and no traps are allowed for those recreational divers. Commercial spiny lobster harvesting is more open. Vessels must display a commercial dive permit, and traps can be used. The daily commercial harvest limit is 250 lobsters per vessel for those diving and using nets. There is no limit to trap harvesting. Traps must be made of wood or plastic. Commercially harvested spiny lobster can only be sold or purchased from people who hold the required licenses. |
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Settle down |
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This week, the Public Service Commission (PSC) approved a settlement between Tampa Electric Company (TECO) and the Office of Public Counsel (OPC) resolving multiple proceedings involving TECO’s Bayside Power Station. “The Commission carefully reviewed the settlement agreement and determined that it provides a fair and reasonable resolution of the disputed issues,” PSC Chair Gabriella Passidomo Smith said. “The agreement balances the interests of customers and the utility, avoids the costs and uncertainty of prolonged litigation, and provides regulatory certainty while ensuring fair and reasonable treatment of fuel cost recovery and depreciation.” 
So we can move on now, right? The settlement stems from replacement-power costs incurred during two Bayside outages and TECO’s April petition to revise depreciation rates for assets at the power station. Under the agreement, TECO may not request a general base-rate increase effective before Jan. 1, 2028. Its recoverable fuel and purchased power expenses will also be reduced by $10 million for 2027. The settlement updates depreciation rates for assets at the power station, retroactive to July 1. TECO serves approximately 844,000 customers across a 2,000-square-mile territory covering Hillsborough County and portions of Polk, Pasco and Pinellas counties. |
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Backpacks and books |
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SoFlo people listen up. Today, state Rep. Kevin Chambliss is helping the community get ready for back-to-school season with the “Read with the Rep + Backpack Drive,” which runs from 11 a.m. through 2 p.m. The event, held at the Naranja Branch Library on SW 280th St. in Homestead, aims to help kids and families get excited for the upcoming school year. It includes a backpack giveaway for those who need back-to-school essentials, along with a special book reading with Chambliss — a moment that could be the gateway to early civics education. The event is sponsored by The Children’s Trust Book Club, Upright Spine Center, CMB Visions Unlimited, Mangrove Health, the Miami-Dade Public Library System, and the Miami-Dade Community. The event requires advanced registration, which you can scan in the graphic below. 
Scan away. For any additional questions or concerns about the event, you can call (305) 230-8611 or email HD117@flhouse.gov. If not, go ahead and enjoy the special bond with your little one and your elected officials. |
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Mean season, kind taxation |
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So far, Hurricane Season has been relatively low-key with only Tropical Storm Bertha brushing Florida’s Gulf Coast in July. But with the so-called “Mean Season” getting into its most active months, the Florida Retail Federation (FRF) is advising residents to still get prepared for any possible storms and purchase tax-free supplies. FRF officials are urging Floridians to take advantage of tax exemptions for purchasing disaster preparedness supplies. “We are in the middle of hurricane season, and now is the time to check your supply kit,“ said Scott Shalley, President and CEO of the FRF. “Florida retailers are ready to help customers prepare now – and save – instead of scrambling when a storm is on the way. Stay prepared and shop today.“ 
Be responsible and save a few bucks while you’re at it. The tax exemption for storm supplies in Florida is not limited to any particular month or season. It lasts all year. And the FRF encourages residents to buy local through the “Find It in Florida” campaign that directs Floridians to local retailers in the state. “When you ‘Find It in Florida,’ you’re supporting local businesses and local jobs,” the FRF campaign states. FRF officials want Floridians to take advantage of the tax-free merchandise now because usually August through October are traditionally the most active months for hurricanes. The Hurricane Season officially runs through Nov. 30, and there have been plenty of late-season storms that have hit the state. There’s a long list of merchandise that is considered storm preparation material, including batteries, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, ground anchor systems and tie-down kits, insect repellent, life jackets, portable gasoline cans under a 5-gallon capacity, portable generators, smoke detectors, sunscreen and several other items. FRF has established a complete list of those items. |
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Recycling recognition |
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The Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation (FRPF) is now accepting applications from businesses, local governments and other organizations that go above and beyond to recycle waste. The 2026 Florida Recycling Champion Awards recognize entities that demonstrate leadership and sustainability in their recycling programs. Launched in 2020, the awards have honored 35 organizations for advancing recycling. 
Think you have what it takes to trash the competition? ... well, you know what we mean. “The Recycling Champion Awards highlight the organizations that are making a real difference in protecting Florida’s natural resources through innovative recycling and sustainability initiatives,“ said Donn Githens, President and CEO of Goodwill Manasota and Chair of the Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation. “We encourage organizations of all sizes to share their success stories and inspire others to strengthen recycling efforts in their communities.” Applications can be made at flrecycling.org. Application fees are $125 for businesses and $75 for nonprofits. FRPF is a nonprofit that promotes recycling education and program implementation across the state. |
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Award-winning Rattler |
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Excellence. Wherever, whenever. This week in Maitland, Florida, CrossMarc Services, a commercial real estate advisory, brokerage and investment firm operating in Central Florida, announced that Vice President of Sales and Leasing Flavia Kanyago was recognized by the Central Florida Commercial Association of Realtors (CFCAR) as their 2026 Developing Leader Award winner. The award is all about recognizing professionals who excel in their careers but are key in strengthening the commercial real estate profession through their leadership, collaboration and community engagement. 
Flavia Kanyago is making FAMU proud. Not only is she celebrating, but so is FAMU. Kanyago is a Rattler alumna who has worked with CrossMarc Services for four years and is thankful for all the mentors, colleagues, friends and communities that have supported her journey throughout her career in commercial real estate. “This CFCAR recognition is a reminder of the power of community and the importance of paying it forward. I am proud to be part of an industry that values mentorship, leadership and service, and I look forward to continuing to contribute, support others and give back,” said Kanyago, who holds a degree in business administration and marketing from FAMU’s SBI. And don’t just take it from FAMU or CFCAR; take it from the founder and President of CrossMarc Services, John Crossman, who believes Kanyago exemplifies the firm’s commitment to leadership and service in every aspect of the definition. “Flavia continues to make an incredible impact on our company and throughout the commercial real estate industry with her leadership at CrossMarc Services and her clients. At the same time, Flavia is committed to mentoring future professionals within CRE organizations, including ICSC and through initiatives such as the Crossman Career Builders/Real Estate Endowed Scholarship. She is making a difference and is truly deserving of this recognition,” Crossman said. |
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Insuring the future |
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The Florida Surplus Lines Service Office (FSLSO) sported Garnet and Gold this week as they bolstered their relationship with Florida State University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Business with a massive philanthropic investment that not only reaffirms their commitment to the college’s risk management and insurance program, but most importantly to its students and soon-to-be alumni network. FSLSO is a Tallahassee-based not-for-profit organization that monitors, educates and supports Florida’s surplus lines insurance market. It bestowed FSU with $1 million to establish the Florida Surplus Lines Insurance Directorship in the Wertheim College’s Risk Management and Insurance Center. FSLSO’s CEO and executive director, Mark Shealy, who happens to be a Wertheim College alumnus, hopes the fund will support the center’s advancement of the risk management industry, especially with initiatives related to surplus lines, which are a specialized insurance coverage that has experienced massive growth in recent years. “FSLSO’s investment in Florida State University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Business is rooted in our commitment to helping build the next generation of surplus lines insurance professionals. By investing in FSU’s RMI students, we are investing in the future capacity, innovation and resilience of the insurance industry,” Shealy said. 
FSLSO made a seven-figure splash at FSU’s business school. Globally renowned researcher and expert in catastrophic risk financing, Charles “Chuck” Nyce, will be assuming the honor of the center’s first Florida Surplus Lines Insurance Director. “It’s a great honor to be the first Florida Surplus Lines Insurance Director,” Nyce said. “These types of investments fortify the future of our program. They ensure that this leadership position will remain solid for future generations of FSU RMI students and industry leaders.” And recently, the dean of the Wertheim College, Michael D. Hartline, emphasized the importance of the program and FSLSO’s record of support, including hiring three to five FSU students as interns every Fall and spring semester and remaining a regular sponsor and partner in events such as FSU’s Insurance Days, which is a twice-yearly job fair for RMI students. “Mark Shealy and the Florida Surplus Lines Service Office continue to demonstrate their extraordinary commitment to our college and students,” Hartline said. “This new investment further solidifies their standing as champions of our world-class programs and research and especially our students, who consistently flourish as the global business leaders of today and tomorrow.” |
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Tourism time in Tally |
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The Leon County Commission’s decision to back tourism funding is drawing praise from the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce. The Commission’s agreement to increase destination marketing and event attraction in recent years has prompted more tourists to come to the Northwest Florida county. In 2025 alone, an estimated 2.6 million tourists chose to visit Leon County, boosting the local economy and bringing valuable tourist dollars to businesses. Michael Dalby, President and CEO of the Greater Tallahassee Chamber, said the boost in the local economy is a huge advantage for business owners. 
The Commission did right by the Chamber, Michael Dalby says. “The success of recent events, such as the World Athletics Cross Country Championships, the three sold-out Savannah Bananas‘ Banana Ball Championship League games and the Professional Bull Riders’ Unleash The Beast Tour, has demonstrated the significant economic impact tourism can have on our region,” Dalby said. “These events bring visitors who stay in our hotels, dine in our restaurants, shop at local businesses and support jobs across our community. The Chamber supports continued investment in initiatives that attract these high-impact events, generating positive and meaningful economic returns for local businesses.” Dalby went on to say the county’s commitment to tourism marketing in recent years has increased the tax base and created a more friendly business environment for entrepreneurs who may not have considered the Capital Region for operations. |
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Smash and grab |
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This week the Tallahassee Police Department arrested three individuals — Kymani Geter (16), Zyah Geter (21), and Antwaniya Winchester (19) — in connection with a series of smash-and-grab burglaries at local smoke shops over the past month. Starting July 8, detectives began investigating the string of seven burglaries that occurred throughout the 850, with the most recent occurring Aug. 2. In each case, the suspects used a large object to shatter the front glass door of the business before immediately targeting the cash register and fleeing in less than three minutes. Detectives were able to gather that the cases were connected from there. 
A few more criminal masterminds are in lockup. During several of these burglaries, one of the suspects was armed with a firearm. Eventually, the investigation linked the suspects to the burglaries, recovered a gun believed to have been used, and then the three individuals responsible were all taken into custody without incident. “This case is another example of the dedication and collaboration that exists across the Tallahassee Police Department. From patrol officers responding to the initial calls to detectives, crime analysts and specialized investigative units working tirelessly behind the scenes, this investigation demonstrates our commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting our business community,” said TPD Chief Lawrence Revell. Geter was arrested for unarmed burglary of an unoccupied structure, armed burglary of an unoccupied structure, attempted armed burglary of an unoccupied structure, criminal mischief, and seven counts of petit theft; Geter for attempted unarmed burglary of an occupied structure, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and petit theft; and Winchester for attempted unarmed burglary of an occupied structure, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and petit theft. |
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Spider-Man & Ted Lasso |
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“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” made history this past weekend as it opened to $360 million domestically, the #1 opening for a movie before adjusted for inflation, beating out “Avengers: Endgame” by $3 million. And fun fact: one of the editors of the film, Oscar nominee Nat Sanders (“Moonlight,” “Shang-Chi”), went to Florida State University's Motion Picture Arts program. Go FSUFilm! And by the time you are reading this, the new Spider-Man film will have already passed $1 billion globally. But “The Odyssey” stood strong too (despite conservatives on X saying NOW would be the time it falls off) and came in second place at the box office, taking home an impressive $51 million, and “Toy Story 5” rounds out the top 3 with $6.8 million. This weekend the wide release options are limited due to the spider in the room. So the main options are “One Night Only,” a new romantic comedy starring Oscar nominee Monica Barbaro from “A Complete Unknown” fame and Callum Turner, a BAFTA nominee known from works such as “Masters of the Air” and “Green Room.” The film is directed by Will Gluck, known for other rom-coms like the recent smash hit “Anyone But You” and the classic 2010s film “Easy A.” The plot follows two New Yorkers as they search for love in this strange world where only one night in the whole year sex is legal. The film is being met with meh/bad reviews, with a 46% on Rotten Tomatoes, a 6.5 on IMDB, and a 3.1 on Letterboxd. Not horrible for this genre, but not screaming must-see content either and probably is carried by the two leads. 
Spider-Man is on track to break a billion at the box office. The mustache idiots are back. “Super Troopers 3” sees the entire gang back, including the writer, director and actor behind it all, Jay Chandrasekhar, as the gang aims to bring down a pernicious new drug ring. And if you enjoyed the original film from 2001, the third film will probably hit just right, as it actually has the highest rating on Rotten Tomatoes in the entire franchise at 45% (not that that’s a high bar to climb) and a 6.2 on IMDB and 2.8 on Letterboxd. Seems like the type of film best watched under the influence of some substance and with a group of friends — and I’m sure the filmmakers wouldn’t take offense to that. But the biggest release this weekend isn’t in the theaters; it’s at home, and on Apple TV. What started off as a promotion for NBC has now spiraled into a full-blown phenomenon in the 13-time Emmy-winning show, including Best Comedy Series twice, all about international soccer, “Ted Lasso.” And yes, the standouts Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, and Brett Goldstein are all back — who all won Emmys as well for their respective roles. Because the show “ended” with season 3 back in 2023, this season follows Lasso coaching AFC Richmond, but their women’s team this time after returning home to Kansas to spend more time with his son Henry. Some critics complained that the show was becoming too sappy and sentimental and not enough of a comedy by the end, and if you were a naysayer/felt that way too, you might continue to feel that way, as critics claim it’s basically more of the same again and currently has an 89% on Rotten Tomatoes for its newest outing. It’s funny to see how much Apple TV has grown as a brand over the years with Emmy darlings like “Pluribus,” “Severance,” “The Morning Show,” “The Studio,” “Margo’s Got Money Troubles” and “Your Friends And Neighbors.” Still, it’s deciding to go back to milk the cow that started it all. |
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Capital Directions |
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