Review: A Christmas Story Christmas – The Rare Sequel that Elevates the Original

I will be the first to admit that A Christmas Story is not my go-to holiday film. I find the narration distractingly wordy, the acting stilted, and the protagonist Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley)insufferable in his misguided quest for a Red Ryder, carbine action, two-hundred shot range model air rifle. That said, my wife’s dedication to … Continue reading Review: A Christmas Story Christmas – The Rare Sequel that Elevates the Original

Review: Spielberg’s ‘The Fabelmans’ is His Best Film in Nearly Two Decades

When you are Steven Spielberg, when do you decide to tell your life story? The famed director crafted too many classics to name throughout his fifty-year career. One could argue that his style is the most important evolution in American cinema and has doomed storytellers to chase nostalgia. At the same time, he's poured his … Continue reading Review: Spielberg’s ‘The Fabelmans’ is His Best Film in Nearly Two Decades

Review: ‘Bardo’ is the Maximalist Film You Love to See

It's hard to feel bad for successful people. Even when life becomes difficult for them, they can rest easy knowing that professional validation and financial wealth keep them afloat. Few would feel sympathy for Alejandro González Iñárritu, the winner of back-to-back Directing Oscars in 2015 and 2016. The very legitimate question, "what do I do … Continue reading Review: ‘Bardo’ is the Maximalist Film You Love to See

Bones and All - Luca Guadagnino Top 10 Films of 2022

“Bones and All” is NOT an Instant Classic from Luca Guadagnino

After having worked together on 2017’s Call Me By Your Name Luca Guadagnino and Timothee Chalamet pair up once more for Bones and All. Both movies tell the story of outcast lovers trying to find their place in the world. Both movies take place during the 1980s and are shot immaculately against stunning but different … Continue reading “Bones and All” is NOT an Instant Classic from Luca Guadagnino

Review: ‘The Inspection’ is Among the Year’s Best Debuts

The last few years have seen a rise in auto-biographical storytelling. With directors having the opportunity to make their passion projects, we're seeing an uptick in nostalgic filmmaking. However, The Inspection from newcomer Elegance Bratton does not look back on his youth with fondness. Instead, his debut film as a director focuses on the toughest … Continue reading Review: ‘The Inspection’ is Among the Year’s Best Debuts

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: “Kong: Skull Island” Rampages on Screen Like a True Popcorn Flick

On the podcast a few weeks ago, I had a rather strong feeling that I would enjoy Kong: Skull Island. When the first trailer released, I thought the film looked like a big, dumb film that struck a tone closer to the DC Universe and 2014 Godzilla (a film I was mistakenly low on upon … Continue reading Review: “Kong: Skull Island” Rampages on Screen Like a True Popcorn Flick