It's rare for non-Western art to receive its due in cultural circles. Yet that makes the arrival of stories about these artists even more critical. Like any art form, the painting imbues meaning to those seeking it. Yet, for Nickzad Nodjoumi, it's impossible to see his art. In fact, ever since the Iranian Revolution, they've … Continue reading Review: ‘A Revolution on Canvas’ – An Intricate History Lesson and Celebration of Iranian Art
TV Review: ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’ – The King of Monsters Rules Streaming
The struggle to find blockbuster TV shows has continued in a post-Game of Thrones world. The iconic series, along with The Walking Dead and The Crown, proved big-budget TV shows could receive critical acclaim and large viewership. They became the new watercooler talk, and soon, Star Wars, Rings of Power, and Marvel chased similar success. … Continue reading TV Review: ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’ – The King of Monsters Rules Streaming
Review: ‘Saltburn’ – Emerald Fennell’s Lurid & Lascivious Fantasy
In the late 18th century, Dangerous Liaisons picked apart the moral superiority of the aristocracy. Less than a decade before French society would revolve, the portrait of debauchery and cruelty tied sex to the ruling class. In the decades since Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ tale, each generation “discovers” their own tale of sex and excess. … Continue reading Review: ‘Saltburn’ – Emerald Fennell’s Lurid & Lascivious Fantasy
Review: ‘Godzilla Minus One’ – An Impeccable Emotional Blockbuster
It's impossible to think about monster films without mentioning Godzilla. The iconic creature stalking the streets of Tokyo has remained in pop culture for seventy years. From an original Japanese monster film in 1954, we've seen Godzilla and his monster bretheran capture the imagination of world cinema. Yet Godzilla Minus One etches a powerful new … Continue reading Review: ‘Godzilla Minus One’ – An Impeccable Emotional Blockbuster
Review: ‘Leo’ – Frustrating Animation Holds Back a Cute Adam Sandler Story
The Adam Sandler experience on Netflix continues its rollercoaster ways. While several of his films, most notably Hustle, find success, others miss the mark. In the case of Leo, a new animated film featuring Sandler, it’s clear Netflix did not pull their weight. Despite cute moments and fun songs, Leo falls short of Sandler's standards. … Continue reading Review: ‘Leo’ – Frustrating Animation Holds Back a Cute Adam Sandler Story
Review: ‘May December’ – Brilliant Performances Fuel Todd Haynes Latest
Todd Haynes established his credentials as an actors' director long ago. Consistently, he delivers insightful and emotionally devastating stories. Any director who can craft dramas as intricate as Carol, Far From Heaven, or I'm Not There puts themselves in rare company. Haynes once again courts a darker topic with his latest feature May December - … Continue reading Review: ‘May December’ – Brilliant Performances Fuel Todd Haynes Latest
Review: ‘The Holdovers’ – An Old Fashioned and Heartfelt Showcase for Giamatti
Few actors showcase pathos and emotion like Paul Giamatti. The actor crept into the pop culture with small roles in big pictures, eventually breaking through thanks to Sideways. That collaboration with Alexander Payne helped Giamatti gain a foothold as a character actor. Combining roles on TV (John Adams, Billions) and film (Barney's Version, Private Life) … Continue reading Review: ‘The Holdovers’ – An Old Fashioned and Heartfelt Showcase for Giamatti
DOC NYC: ‘The Three of Us’ – Faith and Family Come to Blows
A common refrain from those in non-religious communities often focuses on questioning a God that would allow tragedy. After all, a young child or baby has done nothing to deserve the wrath of others. It's a sympathetic discussion, and one that can be easy to utilize as a straw man argument. The process of separating … Continue reading DOC NYC: ‘The Three of Us’ – Faith and Family Come to Blows
DOC NYC: ‘Merchant Ivory’ – Exploring the Masters of Class Drama
Beautiful costumes and a dressed-up aristocracy have always found a devoted audience in theaters. Yet for a stretch in the 1980s and 1990s, the names Merchant and Ivory took on a special place. Named after partners James Ivory and Ismail Merchant, the studio won its talent Oscars and (eventually) conquered the box office. With Ruth … Continue reading DOC NYC: ‘Merchant Ivory’ – Exploring the Masters of Class Drama
SHORT: ‘The Only Girl In The Orchestra’ – The Push and Pull of Progress
When barriers are broken, it can be difficult for some to acknowledge the important feat. However, when the very person who accomplished the goal is the culprit, the disconnect becomes more interesting. The story of Orin O’Brien may not be a household tale. Yet, for those around the world of orchestral history, O’Brien’s name became … Continue reading SHORT: ‘The Only Girl In The Orchestra’ – The Push and Pull of Progress