*NEWS
“Queen & Slim” Has Mixed Success With Its Explosive Message
Some films are easy to discuss. Others are difficult to break down, especially when it comes to their problematic elements. Queen & Slim decidedly falls into the latter category, mixing some really strong moments with a number of issues that holds it back. For all of the strong performances, compelling[...]
Box Office Report For November 22-24
Welcome back one and all to the weekly box office report! As is always the case, each and every Sunday you can expect a look at what made the most money in theaters, as well as just how all of the new releases fared. This week, with Thanksgiving on the[...]
Taking A Fourth Crack At Golden Globe Predictions
Believe it or not, we’re only about two weeks away from the Golden Globe nominations being announced. Somehow, we’ve spent months checking in on this precursor from time to time, so there actually isn’t that much more to say. Early next month, right before the announcement, we’ll have a full[...]
Mark Ruffalo Brings A Passionate Determination To “Dark Waters”
On the surface, it’s fair to wonder why an auteur like Todd Haynes took on this project. After all, legal dramas are compelling cinema, for sure, but hardly places for visual experimentation. One would think that something of this nature would be a waste of his talents. Well, Dark Waters[...]
The 2019 Independent Spirit Award Nominations Are Led By “The Lighthouse” And ‘Uncut Gems”
Moments ago, the Film Independent Spirit Award nominations for 2019 were announced. Though pulling from a very different crop than the Academy Awards do, the Spirit Awards do have some cross over each year. While success here assures a title of little, making moves with this group never hurts while[...]
“Frozen II” Is A Music-Filled Sequel To The Smash Hit Animated Tale
When Frozen came out over half a decade ago and, no pun intended, set the world on fire, it was only a matter of time until Disney made a sequel. Now, Frozen II arrives, hoping to recapture the magic of that global cinematic sensation. Though not on the same level[...]
“A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood” Is The Most Important Film Of 2019
We need Mr. Rogers now more than ever. One look at the news not only confirms that, but can easily lead to despair. Last May, when I gave a rave review to the biographical documentary Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, I included this notion on social media: “Television gave us[...]
Updated Oscar Predictions For Mid November
On Thursday, the Independent Spirit Awards will unveil their nominations. While that precursor doesn’t directly tie in with how Oscar voters cast their ballots, it does provide a window into what some of the major indie contenders might be. In that realm, it’ll be interesting to see what the smaller[...]
Box Office Report For November 15-17
Welcome back one and all to the weekly box office report! As is always the case, each and every Sunday you can expect a look at what made the most money in theaters, as well as just how all of the new releases fared. This week, a potential blockbuster is[...]
James Badge Dale And Camila Morrone Ground “Mickey And The Bear”
Old fashioned independent films, ones that are content just to observe realistic people as they navigate the world, well…they’re becoming rarer and rarer. In part, the demands of the box office limit these endeavors, but it only takes one filmmaker to remind you how vital they can be. This week,[...]
