Marvel legend Stan Lee lived to the age of 96. He created some of the most iconic comic book (turned big screen) characters of all-time. He appeared in many of the movies. And he was the face of the entertainment company for most of his life. Stan Lee is one of the most well-known media […]
“Being Mary Tyler Moore”, HBO’s new documentary on the legendary actress/comedian, opens with clips from a 1966 interview between Moore and talk show host David Susskind. He’s on the attack, questioning the value of women in society and, specifically, Moore’s character on “The Dick Van Dyke Show”. Moore fights back confidently, defending Laura Petrie and […]
“Stay Awake” is family drama centered on two brothers who are trying to figure out what’s best for themselves — and their mother, who’s addicted to prescription drugs. Both Steffan Fin Argus, who plays older brother Ethan, and Wyatt Oleff, as high school senior Derek, deliver breakthrough performances. Their complex characters are portrayed with a […]
It’s the revenge thriller that took the TIFF Midnight Madness program by storm last September. Lionsgate, which acquired “Sisu” shortly thereafter, is opening it in theaters nationwide this Friday (the same day the studio is releasing the Judy Blume adaptation, “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret”. Talk about going after two different audiences!) Sisu […]
Nearly two decades after “Everybody Loves Raymond” wrapped, Ray Romano still can’t seem to get away from the structure, timing and trappings of the TV sitcom. I’m a big fan of smart sitcoms and really enjoyed “Raymond” — sharp writing, relatable humor, classic characters and performances. But you can’t simply take that style, apply it […]
The breathtaking, epic love story, “Weathering with You” was my favorite animated movie of 2019. Makoto Shinkai, the writer/director of that Annie nominee, as well as 2016’s acclaimed “Your Name”, returns with another triumph. “Suzume” is a spectacular anime adventure that makes you believe in the unbelievable. Bicycling to school one morning, the teen girl […]
Quality investigative journalism films (“Nightcrawler”, “Spotlight”, “The Post”, “She Said”) have been headline grabbers over the past decade. “Boston Strangler” — a fascinating, deep-dive into the infamous serial killer spree that paralyzed Boston and surrounding areas in the early 1960s — is a triumphant addition to the genre. This movie boasts the best performances and […]
A coach gets into trouble, suffers a career setback, and has to redeem himself — both professionally and personally — in an unusual environment. It’s a sports movie cliche as old as the peach basket… and the exact set-up of the latest effort in the genre: “Champions”. Woody Harrelson plays Coach Marcus. He an assistant […]
The early 1970’s religious movement that captured the nation is resurrected in this inspired effort from Lionsgate and The Erwin Brothers. It’s the latest collaboration for the studio and filmmakers, who previously delivered box office hit “I Can Only Imagine”, along with powerful, faith-based dramas “I Still Believe” and “American Underdog”. “Jesus Revolution” is an […]
“Seriously Red” is the latest Dolly Parton movie that doesn’t star Dolly Parton. And, like 2017’s “Dumplin’”, it’s also not a biopic on the iconic singer. Instead, this is a story of a diehard Australian Dolly fan, who’s inspired to take her fandom to the next level. Aussie writer/actress Krew Boylan stars as Raylene (a.k.a. […]