Sunday, October 6, 2024
Adapting what is arguably Judy Blume’s most recognizable work evokes a certain fear that it will not live up to the book’s reputation. Director Kelly Fremon Craig, also known for “The Edge of Seventeen,” takes on the arduous task of creating the film adaptation of the sacred “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” and was met with overwhelmingly...
You know, it isn’t easy being this salty. Seeing a mediocre or bad film usually leaves me a little leeway, with so much to criticize I can normally focus on the most glaring of the glaring issues, and avoid having to get too embroiled in serious analysis. While there are times when a film is really bad that reviewing...
Anyone who has seen the first 10 minutes of “Inglourious Basterds” knows how talented Academy Award-winning actor Christoph Waltz is. The film’s success was not only owed to Waltz’s performance, but also to Quentin Tarantino’s legendary, stylistic filmmaking. Lucky for audiences, the two have teamed up once again, showcasing their talents in “Django Unchained.” This picture revolves around Dr....
*Spoilers* “Evil Does Not Exist” opens with a lengthy, unbroken shot of snow capped trees from below, an intimidating angle diminishing us against the leafless branches. Arresting, yet discordant strings from musician Eiko Ishibashi accompany the scene. The shot ends abruptly and we’re introduced to an eight-year-old Hana (Ryô Nishikawa), who is observing something in the forest. We then follow...
As the year progresses and more films are given confirmed releases, a more complete list takes shape. While dates always shift and many films are left unconfirmed, these are ten to look forward to in 2023.  HM “The Peasants,” “Past Lives,” “Maestro,” “Drive-Away Dolls,” and “Dune: Part Two.” “The Killer” The Netflix-backed neo-noir thriller finds Michael Fassbender playing a methodical...
A Russian ballerina thrust into the world of spies, an American mole in the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) and a secret romance between agents on opposing sides — these are all the components that make a heart-pounding thriller filled with sex, murder, secrets and betrayal (e.g. “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” or “Casino Royale”). And while “Red Sparrow” has...
He did it — Jordan Peele, one half of the brains behind the cult classic “Key and Peele” sketch comedy show, made a (damn good) horror film. “Get Out” is a daring feat that hits hard in 2017, an exhilarating, psychological half-breed that owes a great deal to Ira Levin as much as it does the racially charged context...
Director Rich Moore (“The Simpsons,” “Futurama”) made his theatrical debut this weekend, but did he succeed in making “Wreck-It Ralph” a knockout? Yes and no. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ latest feature film boasts its usual top notch visual effects, and Moore definitely hit the mark with fast-paced direction that bombards the audience with a roller coaster marriage of classic...
Sixty years after her death, Marilyn Monroe still holds a prominent place in the collective consciousness of American pop culture. Her newest biopic, directed by Andrew Dominik, was released on Netflix on September 28th.  Before diving into the film, it's worth examining Monroe’s image at the height of her stardom and today. Monroe is most famous for her “Dumb Blonde”...
The Highlander would like to thank ASPB for their free screening of “Blade Runner 2049.” “Don’t touch it. Just leave it alone,” are the words that escape my mouth at the thought of a revitalization of a classic film. If films had sentience, I reckon they would echo this request for a shred of respect in this creatively bankrupt industry...