Twice in the space of just a few years, I had the memorable experience of seeing Aretha Franklin perform live. On May 29, 2014, the Queen of Soul gifted my son Eric and his fellow Harvard graduates with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem as she received an honorary Doctorate of Arts in 2014 … [Read more...] about Respect
Movie Reviews
Vivo
When you combine a musically-gifted kinkajou, a purple-haired tween who marches to the beat of her own drum, and original music by Lin Manuel Miranda, can you really go wrong? If singing, animated creatures make you smile, you'll likely love VIVO, now available for streaming on … [Read more...] about Vivo
Fireboys
As a California resident, I'm acutely aware that "fire season" is no longer a small, hot sliver of the year out here. With the combined impact of climate change and drought, Californians pay attention to fire risk all year long. Our firefighters are deservedly considered heroes. But sadly too few of … [Read more...] about Fireboys
Walking with Herb
Maybe it's because I'm "of a certain age" and because I watched it with my Daddy, a lifelong golfer. But I must admit that I had a great time screening WALKING WITH HERB. Premiering April 30, May 1, and May 3 for a three-night nationwide Fathom Events limited engagement, the PG-rated comedy features … [Read more...] about Walking with Herb
The Father
While the cast listing of THE FATHER only includes six characters, the viewer of this Florian Zeller film based on a play by the same title will quickly sense that more players inhabit the story. The viewer may also feel confusion, disorientation, a loss of perception, and an inability to make sense … [Read more...] about The Father
Bobbi Jo: Under the Influence
Having had exposure to lives impacted by addiction, my radar is always up for resources that can help not only those who personally struggle with addiction but also those who love them. When I recently sat and screened Bobbi Jo: Under the Influence, I knew immediately that this was a project I … [Read more...] about Bobbi Jo: Under the Influence