Spoiler Alert: I like writing about movies that make me feel uncomfortable. When I committed to screening and writing about the newly launched Netflix Limited Series Colin in Black & White, I did so fully knowing that some people will absolutely hate this show. Those might be the same people … [Read more...] about Colin in Black & White
Movie Reviews
MASS
"...it is in pardoning that we are pardoned..." Those words, commonly attributed to the Peace Prayer of St. Francis, cut to the core of what it means to be truly reconciled. I've often pondered them, especially in the wake of my travels in Rwanda where I witnessed the ongoing work of … [Read more...] about MASS
Respect
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
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
Finding ‘Ohana
Within the context of Hawaiian culture, "Ohana" means "family". But just as in the rest of the world the concept of "family" is always evolving, the film FINDING 'OHANA, releasing today on Netflix, shows that one's 'Ohana is never really a static concept. If this year has taught us anything, it's … [Read more...] about Finding ‘Ohana
Our Friend
Consider, for just a moment, your own emotions and ideas surrounding the word "friend". Perhaps when you ponder "friend", you think of yourself and your relationship to a trusted companion. Perhaps you remember a lifelong partner, or someone with whom you've lost contact but still miss. Or … [Read more...] about Our Friend
Soul
It's an interesting notion to ponder the concept of what makes a person unique, a one-of-a-kind being with absolutely individual characteristics, and a singular impact on the world around us. In a very real sense, this singularity of purpose and passion is very much at the heart of Disney and … [Read more...] about Soul
Hillbilly Elegy
While I don't remember the exact year of my younger sister's graduation from a well-known Southern university, I do remember some of the opening words of the commencement speaker, author John Grisham: "The book is always better than the movie." When it comes to Netflix's soon to be released … [Read more...] about Hillbilly Elegy
Jingle Jangle
There's a simple yet magical line in the early moments of Netflix's incredible new original holiday film that offers a prescient glimpse into the power of what is about to unfold before us. "I think it's time for a new story." These words, offered with spirit by Phylicia Rashad as she … [Read more...] about Jingle Jangle
2 Hearts
If the thought of another sentimental medical drama feels too close to home during this time of the global pandemic, think of the new film 2 HEARTS instead as a tale of generosity, lives well lived, and the power of true love. Now open in theaters nationwide, 2 HEARTS is loosely based on the true … [Read more...] about 2 Hearts
Then Came You
I have to admit that when the opportunity to preview THEN CAME YOU was offered, I accepted the film for one reason: it is set in Scotland and was filmed on location in the Highlands. With my son Adam playing in the Scottish trio The Fire, I've become a fan of not only Scottish music, but of the … [Read more...] about Then Came You
Boys State
Documentary is currently my favorite film genre because it lends itself so neatly to the art of storytelling. But one falls into error when believing that simply because it is a documentary, a film will tell absolutely truths. Such seems to be the case with Boys State, an A24 production launching … [Read more...] about Boys State
