columnist Archives - Page 17 of 21

Dear Santa is Like a Christmas Version of Beetlejuice

Released in 1988, Beetlejuice quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Tim Burton combined quirky humor, inventive visuals and a delightfully macabre sensibility that captured audiences’ imaginations. With its unforgettable performances — most notably Michael Keaton’s manic and mischievous portrayal of the… Continue Reading →

A Wicked Review by Someone Who Hasn’t Seen the Stage Show

Before watching Jon Chu’s adaptation of Wicked, I felt like the only person who had never seen the famous Broadway musical. I didn’t grow up in a family that attended musicals, although we did enjoy the music from Cats and… Continue Reading →

December 4, 2024

Oddity is a Standout Example of Atmospheric, Subtle Horrors

Atmosphere is the heart of cinematic immersion, turning films from simple narratives into vivid, dynamic worlds that draw audiences in, completely. By harmonizing visuals, sound design, music and environmental details, it crafts a sensory experience that grounds the story, making… Continue Reading →

December 3, 2024

I Saw the TV Glow Questions Reality

Throughout the years of writing reviews, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing some of the greatest films in cinematic history. While movies that earn a perfect five-star rating are rare, their scarcity makes them all the more precious. These films… Continue Reading →

November 27, 2024

It’s What’s on the Inside That Counts for A Different Man

A24’s A Different Man is essentially the male counterpart of The Substance. Both films explore the societal pressures on individuals and how these pressures influence our actions, particularly regarding our appearances. The Substance explores America’s obsession with life-altering drugs and… Continue Reading →

November 27, 2024

Ghostlight Explores Pain and Loss Through Shakespeare

Lately, there seems to be a surge of films exploring the complexities of damaged family dynamics. From Red One, where an estranged father and son reconnect while teaming up to save Santa, to Armand, where a mother grapples with horrific accusations against… Continue Reading →

November 25, 2024

Is Gladiator II a Sequel Worthy of Strength and Honor?

More than 24 years ago, Sir Ridley Scott created a remarkable historical epic with his film, Gladiator. Released in 2000, it became the second highest-grossing movie of that year, earning nearly $500 million worldwide, just behind Mission: Impossible II. The… Continue Reading →

November 21, 2024

Blitz is an Exploration of Love, Sacrifice and Resilience

The love a parent has for their child is often seen as the ultimate expression of selflessness. It’s a bond so profound and instinctive that it drives parents to take unimaginable risks and make tremendous sacrifices, in order to protect… Continue Reading →

November 20, 2024

Armand Schools Young Parenting Fears

Like many of my fellow parents, the thought of being called to the school because my kid did something bad terrifies me. It’s not just the embarrassment of walking into the principal’s office and feeling the weight of everyone’s judgment,… Continue Reading →

November 17, 2024

Red One is the Ultimate Christmas Action Movie

There’s something uniquely thrilling about Christmas-themed action movies that makes them incredibly fun to watch. It’s the perfect mix of holiday cheer and a high-stakes adventure — a blend that feels both cozy and exhilarating. The contrast of festive decorations,… Continue Reading →

November 15, 2024

Geek Culture, Zombies... and Other Monsters

Tag columnist

Oddity is a Standout Example of Atmospheric, Subtle Horrors

Is Gladiator II a Sequel Worthy of Strength and Honor?

Armand Schools Young Parenting Fears