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X-Men ’97 Season 1 Review
“X-Men ’97” has made a spectacular return, capturing the essence of the beloved 1990s animated series while introducing modern elements that appeal to both old fans and newcomers. This continuation, under the direction of Beau DeMayo, has been universally acclaimed for its faithful yet fresh take on the iconic franchise. The series picks up directly…
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Apples Never Fall
Liane Moriarty, the Australian author behind the source material for the wildly successful TV series “Big Little Lies,” has once again captivated audiences and critics alike with her intricate storytelling. Since the remarkable debut of “Big Little Lies” in 2017, which set the entertainment world ablaze with its blend of star power, luxury, and intense…
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Oscars 2024
Evaluating the quality of an Oscar year involves considering multiple factors: the winners, speeches, unscripted moments, and the host’s performance. Yet, a common critique often overshadows these aspects: the ceremony’s duration. Critics lament its length, craving a more concise celebration. However, it’s worth noting that the 96th Academy Awards, lasting three hours and 23 minutes,…
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Damsel
In the enchanting realm of fantasy cinema, Millie Bobby Brown’s latest venture emerges as a resplendent beacon of originality and empowerment. From its opening lines, we’re tantalizingly forewarned: this narrative diverges from the age-old tales of damsels awaiting rescue, setting the stage for a story rich with self-reliance and courage. Set against a backdrop that…
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Argylle
Matthew Vaughn’s “Argylle” ambitiously attempts to blend the worlds of high-octane spy thrillers with a self-referential comedic twist, but ultimately loses its way in a maze of clichés and underwhelming execution. The film kicks off with a sequence that seems to promise a blend of action and humor, featuring Henry Cavill’s Agent Argylle in a…
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Suncoast
Can there be anything more Sundance-y than a teary coming-of-age movie? This is by no means a knock towards the genre. Films that swim in such familiar waters can be wonderfully fulfilling, like Megan Park’s youthful “My Old Ass” showed with nuance at this year’s Sundance. In comparison, writer-director Laura Chinn’s US Dramatic Competition entry…
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American Fiction
In the wake of a summer that thrust antiracist literature into the spotlight, director Cord Jefferson’s debut film, “American Fiction,” offers a critical examination of the complexities surrounding the consumption and promotion of Black stories in a predominantly white market. Based on Percival Everett’s novel, “Erasure,” the film follows Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (played by the…
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Bob Marley: One Love
“Bob Marley: One Love” attempts to capture the essence of a musical icon but falls flat, leaving audiences questioning its purpose. Director Reinaldo Marcus Green, known for previous works with potential, fails to infuse the film with the depth or originality it desperately needs. Instead, we’re presented with a formulaic biopic that feels more like…
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Lisa Frankenstein
A Disappointing Blend of Horror, Romance, and Comedy In the search for a modern teen classic, “Lisa Frankenstein” falls flat despite its promising premise and talented cast. Penned by Diablo Cody, known for her sharp wit and understanding of female characters, and helmed by Zelda Williams in her directorial debut, the film boasted potential. Kathryn…
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Comfort in Truth: Navigating Artistic Expression in Times of Crisis
In the realm of creative expression, particularly in times of crisis, artists are often confronted with a pivotal decision: should they serve as beacons of comfort or as harbingers of warning? This dichotomy, as described to me by a fellow writer, has repeatedly surfaced in my reflections. However, I am inclined to believe that this…
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Beyond the Newness: A Call to Action for Detroit Voters in an Election Year
As we settle into the new year, the initial excitement and resolutions begin to fade, giving way to the realities and responsibilities that lie ahead. Importantly, this year marks a significant period for us Detroiters — it’s an election year. And with this comes a crucial opportunity: the chance to shape our city’s future through…
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Role Play
“Role Play,” featuring Kaley Cuoco as Emma and David Oyelowo as Dave, struggles to find its footing in a genre that demands both emotional depth and thrilling action. The film opens with a glimpse into the strained domestic life of Emma, who leads a double existence as a mother and a secret assassin. However, the…
