‘Scream’ review: The fifth installment of this slasher satire cuts deep

Though its title and plot give concern, the newest sequel in the iconic horror franchise, Scream, has new tricks (and knives) up its sleeve. Ah yes, the soft reboot…the most feared phrase in modern Hollywood. Ever since the world flocked…

‘The Tender Bar’ review: George Clooney’s spirited cocktail character drama is in need of more reflection

There are stories that need to be told and stories that earn the right to be told. J.R. Moehringer’s best-selling 2006 memoir, The Tender Bar, fits squarely in the latter.  Mining from the author’s challenging childhood, this acclaimed text often…

‘Belle’ review: A lavish science fantasy anime about truly living digitally

During the last few years, our time online has drastically increased, and it seems this will only continue to grow. Therefore, I think it is more important than ever to ask ourselves questions about our relationship with the ever more…

‘Red Rocket’ review: Simon Rex is the good kind of terrible in this tale of American depravity

The “con” in “con artist” is a shorthand for “confidence,” and it’s fitting. You have to really believe in yourself and your abilities in order to take advantage of every person you come into contact with. Whenever we talk about…

‘Encanto’ review: Magic isn’t the true magic of Disney’s family musical comedy

Disney and magic go hand in hand. It’s like peanut better and jelly. Ben and Jerry’s. Soda and popcorn. I skipped lunch today. Disney’s Encanto is full of enough magic to power three more Frozen sequels, but it surprisingly isn’t…

‘The King’s Man’ review: This unexpected prequel takes a more serious, historical turn for the franchise

For a film series primarily known for its spunk, it’s a bit shocking to see Matthew Vaughn take his third foray into the Kingsman universe and ring it dry of its bite. What often felt like a direct lampoon of…

‘A Journal for Jordan’ review: As director, Denzel Washington fails to bring these sentimental pages to life

There’s no denying that Denzel Washington is a great actor. The GOAT, even. Throughout the decades, the masterful, well-distinguished, and heavily-influential performer has demonstrated his high-caliber bravado in several premier projects, with accolades to spare for his thunderous talents. He’s…