Category: Watch This

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…

“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…

“The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” is a cinematic triumph that transcends its source material, a prequel that delves into the deeper, more intricate aspects of Panem’s dystopian world. Director Francis Lawrence returns to the franchise with a vividly realized vision, set 64 years before the original saga, unraveling a narrative that…

A Riveting Tale of Transformation and Transgression In “Eileen,” director William Oldroyd presents a poignant and moody narrative that delves deep into the human psyche, showcasing the transformative journey of its protagonist, Eileen (Thomasin McKenzie). Set against the grim backdrop of a small Massachusetts town, this film is a masterful adaptation of Ottessa Moshfegh’s first…

Daniel Levy’s transition from the small screen success of “Schitt’s Creek” to the grand canvas of feature filmmaking is a journey fraught with expectations. His directorial debut, “Good Grief,” mirrors this transition, delving into the theme of moving on from significant life chapters. The film offers a window into Levy’s potential as a filmmaker, despite…

“The Book of Clarence,” directed by the ingenious Jeymes Samuel, emerges as a groundbreaking and brash biblical epic, marking a bold departure from traditional, white-dominated film genres. In this audacious cinematic venture, LaKeith Stanfield delivers a mesmerizing performance as an unlikely Messiah, leading a dynamic, predominantly Black ensemble cast. Samuel, known for his vibrant and…

Alexander Payne’s latest masterpiece, “The Holdovers,” is a cinematic jewel that radiates love for its characters in every frame, line, and plot twist. In an era where cynicism often prevails, this film emerges as a beacon of heartfelt storytelling, compelling audiences to embrace its characters with open arms. Payne, bouncing back triumphantly from “Downsizing,” collaborates…

A Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Sisterhood Alice Walker’s iconic 1982 novel, “The Color Purple,” has been brought to life in various forms, but Blitz Bazawule’s latest film adaptation is a true masterpiece that captures the essence of the written word and the power of musical performance. “The Color Purple” is not just a movie;…

As a lifelong fan of ‘The Wiz,’ I was ecstatic to hear about its return to Broadway and its journey across the country. My fondness for the show goes back to my childhood, and I even shared this passion with my students at the Boys and Girls Club in Northeast Mississippi, introducing them to a…

Emerald Fennell’s “Saltburn,” following her Oscar triumph with “Promising Young Woman,” is nothing short of a cinematic marvel, effortlessly continuing her streak of creating thought-provoking and audacious films. This modern reimagining of “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” set in the mid-2000s, is a masterclass in storytelling, blending a sharp critique of societal norms with a brilliantly…

“The Marvels” presents a conundrum for fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. On one hand, it’s a polished, action-packed adventure that showcases the studio’s knack for creating visually stunning and entertaining films. On the other, it’s a clear example of Marvel’s formulaic approach, lacking the depth and innovation that could have set it apart. The…

You can always count on Agatha Christie for a surprise, and the big twist in “A Haunting in Venice” is that it’s actually a pretty terrific movie. As a die-hard Christie fan who wasn’t too thrilled with Kenneth Branagh’s previous adaptations of her works, I’m delighted to report that this one hits the mark. In…