Few filmmakers have successfully pulled off the “toys to movies” pipeline. A handful of animated hits came this way, but most live-action adaptations are limited to action spectacles. While Barbie - directed by Greta Gerwig - was never going to lean in that direction, there was still skepticism in the air. However, few filmmakers have … Continue reading Review: ‘Barbie’ – An Instant Masterpiece From Greta Gerwig
Review: ‘The Little Mermaid’ – A Film Kept Afloat by Its Lead
Disney Studio’s latest live-action adaptation of its animated classics takes viewers under the sea in an enjoyable retelling. The Little Mermaid has previously had a Broadway adaptation, so staging the animated film in live-action is not as far a leap as features like Dumbo, Mulan, or Lady and the Tramp. Director Rob Marshall infuses the … Continue reading Review: ‘The Little Mermaid’ – A Film Kept Afloat by Its Lead
Review: ‘Magic Mike’s Last Dance’ Misses The Boys of Summer
Anyone who knows my thoughts on Magic Mike XXL knows I am an unapologetic fan of America's road trip masterpiece. It is a joyous celebration of life, male intimacy, and letting go of our pretensions. The Channing Tatum vehicle felt like a huge step forward for the franchise. It finally landed on its tone. When … Continue reading Review: ‘Magic Mike’s Last Dance’ Misses The Boys of Summer
Sundance 2023: ‘Squaring the Circle’ Dives Deep Into the Creativity of Hipgnosis and Album Art
The art behind the album cover has always been a subject of fascination. The ideas an artist wishes to convey on their own piece of art can make a statement. Pink Floyd remains one of the most communicative with their artwork in the history of Vinyl records. From anti-capitalist statements to the iconic cover of … Continue reading Sundance 2023: ‘Squaring the Circle’ Dives Deep Into the Creativity of Hipgnosis and Album Art
Review: ‘Spirited’ Brings Together Two All-Star Comedians for a Mostly Funny Musical
The rise of Ryan Reynolds over the past decade had been long overdue. The star of films like Van Wilder and Buried had more than proven his value as a fringe star. However, few would have guessed that the actor would often shy away from his foul-mouthed persona in non-superhero projects. Still, he's maintained a … Continue reading Review: ‘Spirited’ Brings Together Two All-Star Comedians for a Mostly Funny Musical
Review: ‘Disenchanted’ Brings Back the Disney Princess Meta-Comedy with Style
In 2007, Amy Adams announced herself as a superstar with her lead performance in Enchanted. The actress had already been nominated for an Oscar for Junebug, but the musical comedy showcased her immense talent. Not only could she fully commit to a silly character, but she proved a gravitational force. Despite getting squeezed out of … Continue reading Review: ‘Disenchanted’ Brings Back the Disney Princess Meta-Comedy with Style
Review: ‘Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile’ Marches to a Loving Drum
The world of children’s films can be a mixed bag. For every Paddington, there are dozens of cheaply made cash grabs. Yet the ones that create an emotional heartbeat to stay with you. The passion of Lyle Lyle Crocodile surprises you at first. However, the winning cast and moments of brilliant character design make it … Continue reading Review: ‘Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile’ Marches to a Loving Drum
Review: ‘Elvis’ Mints a Rockstar While Hanks Deliver a Career-Worst Performance
The legacy of Elvis Presley remains one of many complications. The “King of Rock” not only owns thousands of records for the music industry. He undeniably helped to shape the world of Rock music. At the same time, his legacy as a performer who borrowed and stole from black performers is not something to overlook. … Continue reading Review: ‘Elvis’ Mints a Rockstar While Hanks Deliver a Career-Worst Performance
Review: ‘Cyrano’ Cedes the Stage to a Career-Best Peter Dinklage
Alan French reviews Cyrano, the 2021 adaptation of a Broadway musical. The film from Director Joe Wright tells the famed story with Peter Dinklage, Haley Bennett, Kelvin Harrison Jr, and music from the Dessner Brothers.
Review: ‘Miss Americana’ Gives Taylor Swift the BioDoc Treatment with Strong Political Undertones
There are few more polarizing figures in American Pop Culture than Taylor Swift. The actress turned mogul and multihyphenate has taken the world by storm with her obsessive fandom. Her appeal ranges far beyond her musical roots in country music, making her one of the most bankable celebrities alive. However, her exposure across mediums makes her … Continue reading Review: ‘Miss Americana’ Gives Taylor Swift the BioDoc Treatment with Strong Political Undertones