‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ Is Intense, Heartbreaking Ode to Activism

‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ Is Intense, Heartbreaking Ode to Activism

By Alex McPhersonDirector Shaka King’s new film, “Judas and the Black Messiah,” is a visceral exploration of resistance, sacrifice, betrayal, and legacy. The film takes... Details
Justin Timberlake Strong in Heartwarming ‘Palmer’

Justin Timberlake Strong in Heartwarming ‘Palmer’

By Lynn Venhaus“Palmer” may be predictable, but it’s a heartwarming relatable story about acceptance and second chances. After 12 years in prison, former high school... Details
Trippy ‘Bliss’ Is Dreadful – Miscast, Misguided and Messy

Trippy ‘Bliss’ Is Dreadful – Miscast, Misguided and Messy

By Lynn VenhausA hot mess of a movie, “Bliss” travels between reality and computer simulation, but do we ever know what is real? And more... Details
Too Much Navel-Gazing in Stylish ‘Malcolm & Marie’

Too Much Navel-Gazing in Stylish ‘Malcolm & Marie’

By Lynn VenhausThe long-winded intimate relationship drama “Malcolm & Marie” explores both the public and the private side of a young power couple in Hollywood,... Details
‘Assassins’ Expose Is a Journalistic Achievement

‘Assassins’ Expose Is a Journalistic Achievement

By Alex McPhersonDirector Ryan White’s “Assassins” is a scathing indictment of North Korean politics and a timely reminder of the lengths that some people will... Details
Riveting Historical Drama ‘The Dig’ Makes Archeology and Its Workhorses Compelling

Riveting Historical Drama ‘The Dig’ Makes Archeology and Its Workhorses Compelling

By Lynn VenhausWho knew watching people digging in the dirt would be so fascinating? That’s one of the surprising things about “The Dig,” which is... Details
Heartfelt Performances in ‘Supernova’ Deal with Soul-Crushing Loss

Heartfelt Performances in ‘Supernova’ Deal with Soul-Crushing Loss

By Lynn VenhausA hard look at mental health when facing a life-altering course, “Supernova” is a well-meaning, if underdone, love story that features virtuoso performances... Details
Compelling Performances Boost Crime Procedural ‘The Little Things’

Compelling Performances Boost Crime Procedural ‘The Little Things’

By Lynn VenhausThe little things do matter in this gritty cat-and-mouse thriller where three Oscar winners deliver strong nuanced performances. What starts out as a... Details
National Board of Review Honors ‘Da 5 Bloods,’ Spike Lee

National Board of Review Honors ‘Da 5 Bloods,’ Spike Lee

“The NBR is proud to honor ‘Da 5 Bloods,’ Spike Lee, and the film’s incredible ensemble cast, along with all of our 2020 awardees,” NBR... Details
Small Axe’s ‘Red, White and Blue’ Is a Tragic, Essential Story

Small Axe’s ‘Red, White and Blue’ Is a Tragic, Essential Story

By Alex McPherson Director Steve McQueen’s “Red, White and Blue,” the third installment of “Small Axe,” provides a heartbreaking look at racism within policing, and... Details