Hayao Miyazaki etched his name in the history books more than two decades ago. By the time he completed Princess Mononoke, the story of Studio Ghibli and Miyazaki's incredible artistry was written. Yet in the years since Monoke, Miyazaki established himself as one of the greatest filmmakers in history. Despite a ten-year absence, in part … Continue reading Review: ‘The Boy and the Heron’ – Miyazaki Blends Grief and High Fantasy For Another Powerful Statement
Review: ‘Poor Things’ – A Sexual Odyssey Only Yorgos Lanthimos Could Have Imagined
Taking aim at the sexual morals of an era that prided itself is not uncommon. Earlier this year, Saltburn did much of the same. Given our fascination with history and what was expected by people of a certain status, the ideas remain everpresent. Hypocrisy, poking at this oversight by the snooty upper class, shows the … Continue reading Review: ‘Poor Things’ – A Sexual Odyssey Only Yorgos Lanthimos Could Have Imagined
Review: ‘American Fiction’ Wright & Jefferson Dare One to Laugh with Razor-Sharp Satire
In recent years, movies such as Sorry to Bother You and They Cloned Tyrone have tackled black politics and exploitation. Following in their footsteps comes American Fiction by first-time director Cord Jefferson. With his professional start in the literary arena, first as a journalist and then as a screenwriter (Succession, Watchmen, & Master of None), … Continue reading Review: ‘American Fiction’ Wright & Jefferson Dare One to Laugh with Razor-Sharp Satire
Review: ‘A Revolution on Canvas’ – An Intricate History Lesson and Celebration of Iranian Art
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: ‘Blue Beetle’ – DC’s Latest Film Looks to Correct Course
After suffering from lackluster blockbuster gains, Blue Beetle has hit streaming service MAX with the power of a locomotive train. Several factors may contribute to superhero movies no longer breaking box office records, including the promise of an eventual streaming service release. In the case of the DC extended universe, these poor box office results … Continue reading Review: ‘Blue Beetle’ – DC’s Latest Film Looks to Correct Course
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