SLUG Contributor Limelight
January 7, 2021
Contributor Limelight: Patrick Gibbs
For just over a year, Contributing Writer Patrick Gibbs has been the driving force behind SLUG’s film coverage through his almost-daily film reviews and periodic filmmaker interview features. With a deep knowledge of the medium’s history, an incisive critical eye and a sly sense of humor, Gibbs’ writing exudes—more than anything—a love and respect for the art of cinema. For his unshakable tenacity and colorful voice, SLUG is honored to count Gibbs among our ranks. Head to SLUGMag.com to find an archive of Gibbs’ reviews and to keep up with new articles. Particularly this month, watch out out for his upcoming coverage of the Sundance Film Festival.
Articles by contributor
Sierra Falconer and Cast Bring It Home in Sunfish (&...
With Sunfish (& Other Stories on Green Lake), Falconer delivers an evocative portrait of a cherished place, capturing its timelessness through its characters. … read more
Film Review: The Brutalist
The Brutalist is brutal indeed, and it’s not a movie that’s likely to connect with mass audiences. … read more
Film Review: Wolf Man
Wolf Man isn’t that must-see, visionary piece of horror storytelling that Universal wants you to believe it is by any means, but it’s decent popcorn fare. … read more
Film Review: The Room Next Door
he Room Next Door is certainly going to be an essential viewing for Almodóvar aficionados, and it’s a dramatically ambitious film. … read more
Film Review: Better Man
Better Man is a somewhat uneven mix of daring ideas and by-the-numbers filmmaking, but it comes together to do what it sets out to do. … read more
Gia Coppola: Las Vegas, Legacies and The Last Showgirl
Gia Coppola, a spectacular talent and the latest in long line of visionary artists, has created a vivid portrait of connections, dreams and lasting legacies. … read more
Provo To Omaha To Park City: Cole Webley and Paul...
Omaha is an extraordinary film that’s poised to be one of the standout premieres in the U.S. Dramatic Competition. … read more
A Damned Good Interview with Odessa Young
Odessa Young will be doing what she loves for the foreseeable future, and that that no matter how cold the location can be, this rising star is on a hot streak. … read more
Film Review: The Fire Inside
The Fire Inside is a breath of fresh air in a genre that far too often settles for stale and dank and provides enough inspirational warmth for a sports movie. … read more
Film Review: A Complete Unknown
A Complete Unknown hits all the right notes and stands as a cinematic experience that breathes some much needed life into a stagnant genre. … read more
Film Review: Babygirl
It would be very easy to dismiss Babygirl as another tawdry affair movie, and frankly, if it had been made by a man, it very likely would be. … read more
The Top 11 Films of 2024
As 2024 draws its final breaths, here is my annual list of the year’s top films, submitted for your approval with your personal favorite deliberately omitted. … read more
Film Review: Sonic The Hedgehog 3
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 is a very solid entry in the series that will indeed please fans — as stated by the experts Timmy and Peter Gibbs. … read more
Film Review: Mufasa: The Lion King
Mufasa: The Lion King, the prequel to the 2019 CGI-do-not-call-it-live-action remake of the the 1994 animated classic, is Disney’s mane event for the season. … read more
Film Review: Carry-On
Carry-On is a rare “movie of other movies” that is all the better for never shaking that feeling. It’s neither original nor creative but you can’t help but love. … read more
Film Review: Queer
Queer will certainly have an audience with Guadagnino’s devotees, and with those who seek out gay cinema, there’s a lot to admire about the film. … read more
Film Review: The Lord of the Rings: The War of...
The Lord of the Rings: The War of Rohirrim is somewhat of a niche movie since it’s unlikely to do much for you if you’re not already a fan. … read more
Film Review: The Return
If you’re going into The Return hoping for a swords-and-sandals extravaganza that can compete with Gladiator II, you’ll be very disappointed. … read more
Film Review: Nightbitch
While Nightbitch isn’t terrible by any means, at a mere 98 minutes it feels more like a short film that has been far too padded out than it does a feature. … read more
Film Review: That Christmas
That Christmas is an entertaining (if schmaltzy) festive treat with enough quirkiness to earn a recommendation, especially as an evening-at-home streaming film. … read more
Film Review: The Order
The Order isn’t exactly escapist entertainment, especially now and it may have trouble finding an audience precisely because it’s so uncomfortably topical. … read more
Series Review: Star Wars: Skeleton Crew
If you associate Star Wars with childhood and have been longing for a good family-friendly pirate adventure, Skeleton Crew is the treasure you’ve waiting for. … read more
Film Review: Moana 2
In short, Moana 2 is just a middle-of-the-road cash grab that provides enough entertainment value and gorgeous eye candy to be well worth your time. … read more
Film Review: Wicked: Part One
Wicked: Part One is quite long at 160 minutes, but it’s never boring, and I found it to be one of the most satisfying moviegoing events of the year. … read more
Film Review: Gladiator II
Gladiator II can’t equal the intoxicating experiences of the first, especially for those who spent years putting it on an even higher pedestal than it deserved. … read more
The Wicked Eyes and Imagination of Alice Brooks
The nuances of the story are reflected in Alice Brooks’ visual choices, which play with contrasts between brightness and shadow to create a dynamic, immersive atmosphere. … read more
Film Review: Anora
It’s tempting to compare Anora to the older works of Woody Allen, in terms of the raw filmmaking style, the New York setting and the deceptively simple story. … read more
Film Review: Heretic
I’m not telling anyone that they have to see Heretic if they don’t want to, but I’d be ungrateful if I didn’t take this opportunity to bear my testimony. … read more
Film Review: Here
Here plays a lot like a visually ambitious student film padded out to feature length, and that padding can be very near deadly at time. … read more
Film Review: Emilia Pérez
It’s something of a given that Emilia Pérez is not a movie for all tastes, but it had me hooked from beginning to end, and will be stuck in my head for a while. … read more
Film Review: Music By John Williams
Music By John Williams is very definitely a movie for fans, though it always effectively contextualizes the influence of this magnificent composer. … read more
Film Review: Hitpig!
Hitpig! is neither great nor terrible, and there are enough disparate elements that it could easily have gone fully in either direction. … read more
Toby Cochran on Luki & The Lights and Changing the...
Toby Cochran’s dedication to creating purposeful, intentional content shines through in every frame of Luki & The Lights. … read more
Mélanie Laurent Finds Freedom As A Director
A true innovator in terms of shot composition and visual storytelling, Laurent has created perhaps her most dazzling sequence to date. … read more
Film Review: Your Monster
There’s far too much entertainment value and too many strong performances for me to completely dismiss Your Monster. … read more
Summer Shelton and Clayne Crawford Reconnect with Love and Art...
For Summer Shelton, You & I was more than just a project; it was a form of emotional survival. … read more
Film Review: We Live In Time
We Live In Time may be indeed just be an exceptionally well-made romantic melodrama that hits all the right notes. … read more
Film Review: Saturday Night
On the whole, Saturday Night is a rousingly irreverent and thrilling ride, and one of the most entertaining films of the year. … read more
Film Review: Woman of the Hour
Woman of the Hour is a terrific film that is, at times, quite depressing and upsetting, and it wouldn’t be inaccurate to call it an angry feminist movie. … read more
Film Review: The Apprentice
The Apprentice is much needed counterpoint to Reagan, offering a far less rosy portrayal of the “greed is good era”. … read more
Film Review: Monster Summer
Monster Summer has far too many strengths to write off entirely and far too many weaknesses to give it too much of a pass. … read more
Film Review: A Different Man
A Different Man is an absorbing and interesting film that didn’t completely satisfy me, losing its way in the final section as it tries for too much without a clear idea of why it’s doing so. … read more
Film Review: Joker: Folie à Deux
Joker: Folie à Deux is an unmitigated disaster that not only isn’t going to leave anyone wanting more, it irrevocably takes the luster off its seriously flawed yet strangely interesting predecessor. … read more
Film Review: White Bird
White Bird is a schmaltzy pop melodrama that is made with enough skill and features enough positive messages about empathy. … read more
Film Review: Wolfs
Wolfs struggles to keep up at times, and there are moments when you’ll have to decide now if everything is under control or if it’s flailing. … read more
Director Ellen Kuras on Lee Miller and the Power of...
Sometimes an image can tell a story more powerfully than words, particularly when captured by the right artist. … read more
Film Review: The Substance
The Substance is a furious and frenzied fever dream of shocking imagery and boldly wacky moments. … read more
Series Review: Agatha All Along
Agatha All Along is certainly not a guaranteed hit, because it doesn’t fit into any traditional mold—and that’s exactly why it deserves to be one. … read more
Film Review: Subservience
Subservience is utterly devoid of anything of substance, it’s such a campy timely concept that there was certainly a guilty pleasure hidden in here somewhere. … read more
Cinematographer Sam Levy Captures a Portrait of a Family with...
The film captures one of the most dramatic chapters in the story of any family: the passing of a parent. … read more
Film Review: Transformers One
Transformers One, the first fully animated feature since 1986, is a long overdue course correction for the flailing franchise. … read more
Film Review: His Three Daughters
His Three Daughters wasn’t the easiest movie to watch for me, but it’s the most rewarding and memorable film I’ve seen this year by a sizable margin. … read more
Film Review: The Deliverance
The Deliverance is the kind of movie that keeps your attention to the end, then leaves you feeling used and angry when it’s over. … read more
Film Review: Reagan
Reagan Director: Sean McNamara MJM Entertainment and Rawhide Pictures In Theaters 08.30 When telling the story of a historical figure on screen, there’s a fine line between being respect and hero worship, and even some great filmmakers have had moments where they crossed that line. Reagan is not a movie made by great filmmakers, and
Film Review: You Gotta Believe
You Gotta Believe is a little monstrosity that fails on every level, never inspiring and certainly genuinely undercutting any messages it aims for. … read more
Film Review: The Killer
The Killer runs a bit long, and it’s certainly nothing particularly new, but it’s a fun guilty pleasure movie that I thoroughly enjoyed. … read more
Erin Moriarty on Empowering Women and Catching Dust
As Erin Moriarty looks to the future, her passion for roles that push the boundaries of how women are portrayed in film remains unwavering. … read more
Nathan Silver On Between the Temples
As Silver continues to explore life and art, Between the Temples stands as a testament to his unique vision. … read more
The Many Monster Loves of Alec Gillis
Oscar winning make-up and effects artist and monster lover Alec Gillis, has been part of every film in the Aliens series since 1986. … read more
Film Review: The Union
The Union is serviceable Netflix fare that is certainly more enjoyable than duds such Atlas or Rebel Moon, though it’s hard to imagine anyone wanting a sequel. … read more
Film Review: Alien: Romulus
Alien: Romulus is easily the welcome surprise of the summer, and it’s a shot in the arm for popular filmmaking as an art form that I for one desperately needed at this point. … read more
Jean Reno, David Schurmann and My Penguin Friend
As My Penguin Friend hits theaters, Reno and Schurmann are very pleased at the opportunity to share this heartwarming film with audiences around the world. … read more
Film Review: Sing Sing
Sing Sing is a much needed injection of art and soul into the bloodstream of cinema, mixing heavy drama with humor and humanity. … read more
Film Review: Borderlands
The video game-inspired space opera Borderlands is hardly gourmet. It’s more like a stale, sticky, slimy, stuck-to-the-bottom-of-your-shoe popcorn movie. … read more
Film Review: It Ends With Us
It Ends With Us is worse than just a bad movie, it’s a movie that comes dangerously close to romanticized domestic abuse. … read more
Film Review: The Instigators
The Instigators is far from a bad movie, it’s simply so undercooked that it’s hard to walk away convinced that it even deserved to be made. … read more
Film Review: Harold and the Purple Crayon
Harold and the Purple Crayon is an inept and irritating debacle, and that’s coming from someone who admits it difficult to be too harsh toward a family movie. … read more
Film Review: Trap
Trap is impossible to take seriously on any level, and despite its 105-minute runtime, it seems to go on forever. … read more
Film Review: Kneecap
If I’m rating Kneecap by the standard of whether it’s the brilliant and original film that its most vociferous admirers paint it to be, it comes up quite short. … read more
Film Review: The Fabulous Four
The Fabulous Four is an utter misfire from beginning to end and it’s film going to meet a quick demise at the box office before it goes on to streaming. … read more
Film Review: Deadpool & Wolverine
Deadpool & Wolverine Director: Shawn Levy Maximum Effort and 21 Laps Entertainment In Theaters 07.26 Film icon Martin Scorsese famously said that the Marvel Cinematic Universe isn’t cinema, and at the risk of losing my geek cred, sorry, folks, but I don’t disagree. That doesn’t mean I hate Marvel—In fact, sometimes I really love it.
Film Review: Widow Clicquot
Widow Clicquot is a period piece, a costume drama, and a biopic—but at its heart, it’s a spellbinding story of selfless love, as well as self-love.
… read more
Film Review: Twisters
Twisters is a highly enjoyable summer blockbuster that can be readily enjoyed even if you’ve never seen Twister, as well as by die-hard fans. … read more
Film Review: Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person
While it certainly has strong elements of both the satirical and the macabre, Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person is a deceptively beautiful film at its center, and proves to be quite enchanting. … read more
Filmmaker Zach Meiners Shares His Story in Conversion
Meiners remains hopeful that Conversion will educate and empower audiences worldwide as it gradually reaches an audience and gets its messages across. … read more
Film Review: The Convert
The Convert is a heartfelt period piece focusing on a lesser-known time and place, and it earns a recommendation, especially if you like historical films. … read more
Luke Gilford and The Cast of National Anthem
The message of this heartfelt and beautiful film is simple yer powerful: love is love, there is hope, and there is a place out there for all of us. … read more
Film Review: Fly Me to the Moon
Fly Me To The Moon is nothing more and nothing less than an enjoyable romcom with just enough history to hopefully steer audiences who want to know more in the right direction. … read more
Film Review: Touch
Touch is a beautifully crafted character study about making every moment count, and about having the courage to communicate your deepest fears and feelings. … read more
Film Review: Despicable Me 4
And if you’re looking for a recognizable brand that will get your kids excited, Despicable Me 4 is certainly the big event movie for the little ones. … read more
Film Review: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F isn’t the must-see event that Top Gun: Maverick was, but as a straight-to-Netflix release, it doesn’t have to be. … read more
Film Review: Space Cadet
Unlike its determined protagonist, Space Cadet is perfectly content to be an acceptably amusing junk food movie and never try for anything more. … read more
Film Review: Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1
Horizon: An American Saga—an epic western being released in theaters in two parts this summer, isn’t just his boldest move yet, it’s a charge into the unknown. … read more
Film Review: A Quiet Place: Day One
A Quiet Place: Day One is the blockbuster debut of writer-director Michael Sarnoski, who gained notice with the mesmerizing indie feature Pig. … read more
Film Review: Daddio
Daddio was a film that got its hooks into me and won’t let go. It’s a simple yet perceptive depiction of two people learning a bit more about themselves. … read more
Film Review: Ghostlight
Ghostlight is an authentic and powerful film that earns the tears and moments of joy through the reality that its cast brings to it. … read more
Film Review: The Exorcism
The Exorcism may never have had the potential for greatness, yet it certainly could have been much more than a movie that is a major chore to finish watching. … read more
Film Review: The Bikeriders
The Bikeriders isn’t the best dramatic film of the summer, though it’s a strong one and it stands the best chance of finding a wide audience. … read more
Film Review: Thelma
Thelma is the best action film of the year by a wide margin, not because it redefines the genre, but because Margolin’s priority is to make a really good film. … read more
Film Review: Treasure
Treasure has scattered moments that elicit a degree of genuine emotion, though most of them come not from the story, but simply from seeing the locations. … read more
Animator Matt Majers’ Emotional Journey Through Inside Out 2
It’s been a journey of great emotion and imagination, and Majers is excited to keep pushing through new boundaries in the years to come. … read more
Film Review: Inside Out 2
I couldn’t be more overcome by joy—and by Joy—to give Inside Out 2 a resounding recommendation for all audiences. … read more
Film Review: Tuesday
Tuesday is certainly not going to be for everyone, and it’s a movie that leaves its audience with a lot to take in and ponder. … read more
A Family Holds The Mirror Up To Nature in Ghostlight
As Ghostlight hits theaters across America on June 14, the Kupferer family is taking this exciting new chapter in their lives one day at a time. … read more
Film Review: I Used To Be Funny
I Used To Be Funny is an affecting and compelling film that pulled me in so completely that it kept me awake for hours trying to process it. … read more
Pablo Berger On Visual Storytelling and Robot Dreams
Experiencing love and loss alongside Dog and Robot, and as each person finds a special meaning to the story, for Pablo Berger, it is truly a dream come true. … read more
Film Review: Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara
Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara, this is an important and profound film that needs to be widely seen, digested and discussed openly and mindfully. … read more
Film Review: Bad Boys: Ride Or Die
There’s something to be said for dumb fun, but there’s a whole lot of dumb and not nearly enough fun on display here. Bad films. Whatcha gonna do? … read more
Director Castille Landon Talks Summer Camp
She’d like it to inspire people to reconnect with someone from the past and spend time together. Whether in the great outdoors or together in a theater. … read more
Film Review: Young Woman and the Sea
Young Woman and The Sea is the perfect argument against the frequently uttered complaint that “They don’t make movies like they used to.” … read more
Film Review: Ezra
Ezra is an embarrassing misfire, especially considering the talent involved in it. … read more
Film Review: Jim Henson: Idea Man
Jim Henson: Idea Man is a loving tribute and unforgettable chronicle of a life and career cut all too short, one which nevertheless had an immeasurable impact that continues to this day. … read more
Film Review: The Dead Don’t Hurt
The Dead Don’t Hurt is a horse opera that trots in a circuitous and at times circular route rather than galloping purposefully from one point to the next. … read more
Film Review: Babes
Babes is hardly a movie for everyone, though it’s likely to do very well with its target female audience and can be readily enjoyed by men as well. … read more
Film Review: Atlas
Atlas is a prime example of the kind of assembly line filmmaking that may benefit from costing you nothing apart from your Netflix subscription. … read more
Wētā’s Phillip Leonhardt on The Evolution of Apes and VFX
Leonardt has worked on all four of installments of the modern Planet of the Apes series, starting with the 2011 release Rise of the Planet of the Apes, followed by Dawn of The Planet of the Apes in 2014 and War for the Planet of Apes in 2017. … read more
Film Review: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
This feels more like the work of a filmmaker who has been told he’s a visionary and is too eager to bask in the glow of that pronouncement. … read more
Film Review: The Garfield Movie
The Garfield Movie didn’t have to be a great film to win me over. It just had to live up to its title. … read more
Film Review: IF
IF is reaching very high, mixing the feel of a Pixar film with a heavy Spielbergian influence. … read more
Film Review: Force of Nature: The Dry 2
While Falk is ostensibly the main character, he’s far less central to this story than in The Dry, meaning that Bana isn’t given quite as much screen time here. … read more
Film Interview: Renny Harlin is No Stranger To Peril and...
Renny Harlin has been helming features since 1986 as his latest film The Strangers: Chapter 1 gets ready to hit theaters, he reflects on his secret to survival. … read more
Film Review: Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes captures the feel of the ‘70s film; judged on that level, it’s one of the stronger films within the larger franchise. … read more
Film Review: We Grown Now
It’s an artful and evocative cinematic experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll and the lights come up. … read more
Film Review: The Idea of You
The Idea of You is a manufactured soap opera with scattered laughs and very appealing stars that make it play as decent disposable entertainment. … read more
Film Review: The Fall Guy
The Fall Guy comes off without a hitch, with a thumbs up signaling that it’s ready to go again. … read more
Film Review: Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver
As is always the case with Snyder, Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver features intricate and striking visuals, and as always, the divisive director deftly paints pretty pictures with painstaking precision. … read more
Film Review: Boy Kills World
Boy Kills World may well play strongly to the violence equals fun crowd, and may well find a cult following. … read more
Film Review: Hard Miles
The fact-based drama Hard Miles makes for a smooth ride that gets from point A to point B with few surprises along the way. … read more
Film Review: The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare
Ritchie really wants to follow in the footsteps of Tarantino. I’d suggest making one more film and then retiring. I don’t mind if he skip the first part. … read more
Film Review: Challengers
It scores enough points to be called a winner, and it’s got style to spare, but it lacks the heart of a true champion. … read more
Film Review: LaRoy, Texas
Writer-director Shane Atkinson makes his feature debut with this darkly comedicneo-western.
… read more
Film Review: Monkey Man
Patel makes a big impression coming out the gate as a new director, with creative and intricate staging and a lot of visual flair. … read more
Film Review: Kung Fu Panda 4
Kung Fu Panda 4 is better than can be reasonably expected from the fourth movie in any series and is likely to be one of the most enjoyable family films you’ll see all year. … read more
Film Review: Wicked Little Letters
A remarkably absorbing and smartly-paced film that mixes silly comedy with surprisingly heavy drama that ranges from touching to genuinely unsettling. … read more
Who You Gonna Call? Eric Steelberg
Whether he returns to the franchise in future or not, the Ghostbusters experience has been a milestone in Steelberg’s career. … read more
Film Review: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is the third time we’ve returned to this particular well since 2017, and this time, the water is more than a little bit icy. … read more
Film Review: Immaculate
If you can embrace Immaculate as pure camp, you may find Immaculate to be just what you’re looking for, especially if you’re a big fan of extreme gore. … read more
Film Review: Sleeping Dogs
Sleeping Dogs isn’t as inventive as Memento or as exciting as The Bourne Identity, though it’s better than any other amnesia film in recent memory… I think. … read more
Film Review: Shirley
Shirley is a good film that is ultimately too by-the-numbers to be be called a great one, and it definitely left me wanting in terms of character development. … read more
Film Review: Uproar
Uproar is one of the best films to come out in 2024 up to this point, and it’s a triumph for Julian Dennison, who shows that he has real star potential. … read more
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Film Review: One Life
It’s a well-acted film that tells a worthy story about courage in face of evil. It’s unfortunate their own protagonist and the filmmakers play things safely. … read more
Film Review: Damsel
While Damsel isn’t terrible, it’s humorless, bland and too hokey to pull off the deadly serious tone that the filmmakers have chosen. … read more
Film Review: Love Lies Bleeding
Love Lies Bleeding is too interesting to dismiss and too maddeningly uneven—and at times, quite unpleasant—to fully embrace. … read more
Film Review: Spaceman
The prospect of sharing this lonely journey with an interesting character on a mission into the unknown is tantalizing for cerebral science fiction fans. … read more
Oscar Winner Tom Schulman Doubles Down on Directing
Schulman is still following the advice of his most iconic character, John Keating, so memorably portrayed by Robin Williams, and seizing the day. … read more
Film Review: Dune: Part Two
Whether Paul Atreides is a messiah or not, Denis Villenueve is certainly delivering us from the doldrums of assembly line mediocrity. … read more
Film Review: Drive-Away Dolls
Drive-Away Dolls is a raunchy sex comedy/buddy movie/romance/caper movie that doesn’t require a male lead to pull off any of these dynamics, and it’s decidedly not for all tastes. … read more
Film Review: Ordinary Angels
The Christian movie market has been thriving at the box office, which is impressive when you consider that it arguably has yet to produce a single good movie. … read more
Film | Film Reviews | SLUGmag
Film Review: Bleeding Love
Bleeding Love is middle of the road movie that is better suited to a $6.99 rental at home than a trip to the theater. … read more
Film Review: The Teacher’s Lounge
It’s an insightful piece of filmmaking that is unlikely to find the wide audience deserved, though it’s going to leave a mark on nearly everyone who sees it. … read more
Film Review: Bob Marley: One Love
Bob Marley: One Love is an entertaining, if disjointed, snapshot into the life and achievements of a complex and important figure in music, spiritualism, and politics. … read more
Film Review: Argylle
If you’re ready to laugh and have a great time with an unapologetically indulgent thrill ride, Argylle is just the ticket for a weekend diversion. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Hit Man
If you can tell yourself “it’s only a movie” and take it with a grain of salt, Hit Man is likely to be the most enjoyable two hours you’ll spend at the movies. … read more
Sundance Interview: Molly Manning Walker on How To Have Sex
British Writer-Director Molly Manning Walker brought her narrative feature debut, How To Have Sex, to Park City this year, where—despite the chilly weather—it received a warm reception. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Presence
Presence is less a movie than it is a gimmick, and while I’m all for Soderbergh making smaller films, this is the latest frustrating example of his tendency to go for volume above all else. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Ponyboi
Ponyboi is a bold and transcendent performance that is screaming out to be seen, and if Hollywood is willing to look at Gallo, it could be a game changer. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Rob Peace
Ejiofor capably tells a tragic tale that is worthy of the Bard in Rob Peace—if he can hone is instincts a bit, he has the potential to be great storyteller. … read more
Lucy Lawless will Never Look Away From A Great Story
If there’s one thing that Lawless hopes audiences will take away from her film, it’s a sense of love and respect for journalists working in war zones. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Suncoast
In the case of Suncoast, it feels a bit too much like writer/director Laura Chinn was meeting with her therapist and was told “just write a screenplay about your teenage experiences and see if you can work in a part for Woody Harrelson.” … read more
Sundance Film Review: The American Society of Magical Negroes
The American Society of Magical Negroes is a daring, exquisitely crafted film that succeeds on every level, entertaining while educating and, most importantly, giving voice to thoughts and feelings that need to be shared and heard. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Love Me
Love Me follows two artificial intelligences as they navigate the pitfalls of a relationship while learning to understand one another as they become more aware of themselves. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Winner
Winner is the story of Reality Winner, a Capitol Hill misfit who becomes an unlikely whistleblower for exposing Russia’s interference in the 2016 election. … read more
Sundance Film Review: My Old Ass
In My Old Ass, Elliot meets her older self during a mushroom trip the summer before she leaves for college. … read more
Film Review: The Color Purple
While this version of The Color Purple may be a satisfying experience for the most hardcore musical fans, it’s at best a mere footnote to the original’s legacy. … read more
Film Review: Poor Things
Poor Things is far and away the most unique film of the year, though whether it’s among the best is more debatable. … read more
Film Review: Wonka
Wonka delivers enough goofy fun and pure imagination to earn a very enthusiastic recommendation. … read more
The Top 11 Films of 2023
As the year comes to a close and we head toward 2024, Patrick Gibbs returns with his top 11 films of 2023. … read more
Film Review: Leave the World Behind
Leave the World Behind is an engaging and unnerving thriller that moves briskly and is expertly acted, demonstrating Esmail’s skill as a filmmaker. … read more
Film Review: Saltburn
Saltburn is a technically impressive work demonstrating Fennell’s directorial talent and that she’s very much still a promising, young filmmaker. … read more
Film Review: Dream Scenario
Dream Scenario is a strange, cerebral and mesmerizing film that provides laughter, tension and a few solid scares wrapped up in a complex and creative package. … read more
Action Speaks Louder Than Words for John Woo
20 years after his film Paycheck, John Woo is back in America for the holiday-revenge thriller Silent Night, which notably includes no spoken dialogue. … read more
Film Review: Maestro
Maestro is an ambitious piece that doesn’t quite hit every note, yet it’s hard not to be transfixed by the melody. … read more
Film Review: Wish
Even in the age of both The Disney Channel and Disney+ coming right to your home, a new animated feature from the House of Mouse is always a bit of an event. … read more
Film Review: Napoleon
If you can ignore the nagging feeling that the film is once again bringing a level of romanticism to a monster, Napoleon is a sumptuous feast of sight and sound. … read more
Film Review: Next Goal Wins
Next Goal Wins is an enjoyable, offbeat sports comedy that could and should have been a lot better, though it’s not nearly as dreadful as its most vocal detractors would have you believe. … read more
Film Review: May December
May December is a thought-provoking and deeply affecting film that deftly balances tragedy with comedy and stands among the best work of all involved. … read more
Film Review: It’s A Wonderful Knife
If you’re looking to add a bit of an edge to your holiday viewing, It’s A Wonderful Knife might be just the gift you didn’t even know you needed this year. … read more
Film Review: The Killer
The Killer should be required viewing in film schools as it’s practically a two-hour masterclass in directing shot by shot. … read more
Film Review: The Persian Version
The Persian Version is a subversive twist on family comedy that overcomes muddled plotting and mediocre dialogue through boundless enthusiasm. … read more
Film Review: The Marsh King’s Daughter
The Marsh King’s Daughter has just enough of junk-food, “true crime podcast”-meets-When The Crawdads Sing that it will find an audience on streaming. … read more
Film Review: Rustin
Rustin is a touching monument to an often overlooked figure who played a vital part in moving our nation and society forward. … read more
Film Review: Radical
Radical has a strong message about our responsibility to make sure that the most vulnerable in our society are never deprived of hope. … read more
Film Review: Priscilla
Priscilla works well enough as an addendum to Luhrman’s story of Elvis as the victim, giving audiences a necessary glimpse at him as a victimizer. … read more
Film Reviews: Pain Hustlers
Pain Hustlers should not be taken directly into the eyes or brain. Side effects may include nausea, headache and Chris Evans crawling to Marvel Studios. … read more
Film Review: The Mission
The Mission is thought provoking, uncomfortable and thoroughly unforgettable, and you need not ascribe to or reject any theology to become immersed. … read more
Film Review: Killers of the Flower Moon
Killers of the Flower Moon is a brilliant achievement and a sobering reminder of the violence and greed indelibly sewn into the tapestry of American history. … read more
Film Review: Nyad
Nyad ranks among the best sports movies since the original Rocky in 1976, and it fairs even better as an adventure film. … read more
Film Review: The Burial
When it comes to providing a clear objective and protagonist to root for, the courtroom drama is even more fool proof than the sports movie. … read more
Film Review: She Came To Me
She Came to Me is watchable enough thanks to a strong and committed cast, though it’s hardly worth a trip to the theater. … read more
Film Review: Strange Way of Life
Those of you who were starting to panic because nothing new starring Pedro Pascal had been released in the last week can relax now. … read more
Film Review: The Royal Hotel
Kitty Green has a rare gift for making this kind of film, and The Royal Hotel is further proof that she’s one of the most interesting filmmakers of our time. … read more
Film Review: The Creator
The Creator isn’t necessarily going to be remembered as a masterpiece, but it is going to be remembered. … read more
Film Review: Dumb Money
The underdog story is a tried-and-true formula. In the case of Dumb Money, it’s average people vs. the Wall Street power brokers in the ultimate showdown. … read more
Film Review: A Haunting in Venice
A Haunting in Venice won’t be showing up on top-10-best lists, and it’s nothing particularly new, though the latter is hardly a strike against it. … read more
Film Review: Scrapper
Like Georgie herself, Scrapper highly deserves attention and love—this is a movie that you simply don’t want to miss out on. … read more
Film Review: Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose
Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose left me wanting, and it almost feels like a pitch for a movie that isn’t quite finished. … read more
Film Review: The Equalizer 3
The Equalizer 3 Director: Antoine Fuqua Escape Artists In Theaters: 09.01 “Third time’s the charm” rarely applies to film. From The Godfather Part III to Spider-Man 3, the third chapter in a trilogy often holds a dishonorable place in the movie pantheon. The Equalizer 3 manages to hit the mark more often than most threequels,
Film Review: Mutt
Mutt is a terrific film that truly falls into the “must see” category, whether it’s a story that you relate to or perhaps especially if it’s not. … read more
Film Review: The Good Mother
The Good Mother is a serviceable and forgettable thriller that feels rushed and compromised by budget and runtime constraints. … read more
Film Review: The Hill
The human drama in The Hill is so bland that it’s hard to care and far too corny to be taken seriously. … read more
Film Review: Golda
Golda has good intentions in trying to honor a major figure and capture a significant period, yet it misses every opportunity to make that feel interesting. … read more
Film Review: Blue Beetle
Blue Beetle isn’t going to be the breakthrough film that makes the genre skyrocket back to its full glory, but it may help slow the descent just a bit. … read more
Film Review: Strays
Strays didn’t need to reach high to be guilty-pleasure entertainment; it just needed to do more than revel in reaching as low as possible. … read more
Film Review: Afire
Afire is a slow burn, a slight yet engrossing and ultimately moving slice-of-life film not for all tastes. … read more
Dustin Guy Defa Talks The Adults
The Adults, the new film from Writer/Director Dustin Guy Defa, grapples with childhood and identity as it explores the relationships between three adult siblings. … read more
Film Review: The Last Voyage of the Demeter
The Last Voyage of the Demeter is an entertaining, gothic-horror thriller that flirts with greatness only to fall short. … read more
Film Review: Jules
Jules recalls nothing so much as the kind of bargain basement, straight-to-VHS movies of the late ’80s and early ’90s. … read more
Film Review: Dreamin’ Wild
Dreamin’ Wild Director: Bill Pohland River Road Entertainment In Theaters 08.04.2023 Dreamin’ Wild is a unique entry in the musician biopic genre in that it’s not just about telling a story we haven’t heard before; it introduces us to a real band that we only wish we’d known about before now. Dreamin’ Wild stars Oscar
Film Review: Shortcomings
If you’re looking for a small, quirky indie flick that’s never boring, Shortcomings is a film that thankfully fails completely to live up to its title. … read more
Shauna Brand and The Meddlesome Mystery of The Fringe Festival
If you’re looking for family-friendly fun with flair, get a clue and grab a seat for The Advantageous Adventures of Mrs. Meddlesome: Curse of the Tomb. … read more
Film Review: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is not even close to being definitive, and for hard core fans, the key to enjoying it is to embrace that fact. … read more
Film Review: Earth Mama
Earth Mama is a beautiful film and powerful character study about the sort of person that society judges daily yet rarely makes any effort to understand. … read more
Film Review: Haunted Mansion
Haunted Mansion may struggle to find its footing in theaters, but it has a definite future as traditional October viewing. … read more
Film Review: The Beanie Bubble
The Beanie Bubble accomplishes what it sets out to do, entertaining audiences and telling a story on recognizing a toxic relationship and embracing self worth. … read more
Film Review: Oppenheimer
Oppenheimer is smart, ambitious and has an epic “event movie” quality that combines serious drama with a blockbuster sense of showmanship. … read more
Film Review: They Cloned Tyrone
They Cloned Tyrone is far and away one of the best films of the summer, and it’s a smart, hilarious, action-packed and thought-provoking mindbender. … read more
Film Review: The Miracle Club
The Miracle Club is a disposable film that is far from terrible, though the only real miracle here is that anyone thought this was a story worth telling. … read more
Film Review: The Lesson
The Lesson is a solidly executed film that’s worth seeing once just for Grant’s performance, and some audiences are going to love it. … read more
Film Review: Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning, Part One.
After reinvigorating the audiences with the exciting Top Gun: Maverick, Tom Cruise has accepted his mission to save us from the box office slump once again. … read more
Nick Bruno and Troy Quane on the Magical Message of...
Nimona, from directors Nick Bruno and Troy Quane, is a story of transformation that celebrates finding joy in the most magical beings of all: our true selves. … read more
Film Review: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
Patrick Gibbs, one of the most stalwart fans of the series, finds Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is a satisfying epilogue. … read more
Film Review: No Hard Feelings
No Hard Feelings is a winning and thoroughly charming comedy that has the potential to be a real crowd-pleaser. … read more
Director Anthony Mandler on Surrounded
A quick glance at Antony Mandler’s IMDb page hardly makes one jump to the thought that he’s the perfect choice to make the next great western. One of the most prolific music video directors in the business, Mandler is more likely to be mentioned in conjunction with Beyoncé or Selena Gomez than with cowboys and
Film Review: Past Lives
Redefining a relationship with a past love has rarely been handled with such a real sense of truth. Past Lives is a beautiful and haunting story. … read more
Film Review: The Flash
The Flash is a disappointing installment to the DC cinematic universe, with some of the worst CGI in recent history. … read more
Film Review: Elemental
Elemental isn’t reinventing the wheel, though it does stand out by being Pixar’s first straight-up romantic comedy. … read more
Traveling to New Orleans, Schmicago and the Planet of the...
Karin Konoval is best known for her role as Maurice the Orangutan in the Planet of the Apes prequels. Her background in musical theater and performance finally came to film with her character “The Barfly” in Schmigadoon! season 2. … read more
Film Review: Sanctuary
If you’re looking to escape the familiar trappings of recycled blockbusters, the darkly comic psychological thriller Sanctuary is a great place to hide out. … read more
Film Review: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
While we are definitely reaching a point where multiverse movies are becoming too common, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is easily among the best of them. … read more
Film Review: The Little Mermaid
While it does manage to be an enjoyable and visually sumptuous summer blockbuster, The Little Mermaid isn’t new or great enough to be a new Disney classic. … read more
Film Review: Master Gardener
While Master Gardener plants strong seeds, what grows is undernourished and never quite as beautiful or impactful as you want it to be. … read more
Film Review: Carmen
Benjamin Millipied’s Carmen is one operatic performance that simply hits too many sour notes to endure. … read more
Tatum Langton on Her One-Woman Show REDEEMher
Storytelling drives Tatum Langton, and following that calling brings her a sense of purpose and peace, driving her toward daring, creative challenges. … read more
Film Review: What’s Love Got To Do With It?
What’s Love Got To With It? caught me by surprise in all the best ways. Arrange some time to see this with the person you love. … read more
Film Review: Polite Society
Polite Society knows exactly what it wants to be and has both the courage to break molds and a director with the skill and vision to cast new ones. … read more
Film Review: Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3
Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3 is a glorious return to form for the MCU and a satisfying final chapter to arguably the best and most unique Marvel series. … read more
Film Review: Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret
Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret doesn’t just do the book justice—it’s a cinematic masterpiece and easily the best film to come out of Hollywood this year. … read more
Film Review: Showing Up
Showing Up is a quiet, introspective and insightful film in the best tradition of Kelly Reichardt’s finely honed style. … read more
Film Reviews: Chevalier
Chevalier is a haunting film that will inspire people to research Joseph Bologne and his many accomplishments. … read more
Film Review: To Catch A Killer
To Catch A Killer Director: Damián Szifron FilmNation Entertainment and RainMaker Films In Theaters: 04.21 It’s disturbing and unsurprising that movies about mass shooter events have become a subgenre, with entries ranging from powerful artistic works to pure exploitation. The new Shailene Woodley vehicle, To Catch a Killer, isn’t the worst movie to come out
Film Review: Mafia Mamma
If you get involved with organized crime, you’d better know what you’re doing—Catherine Hardwicke doesn’t. … read more
Chris McKay on the Biting Humor of Renfield
The relationship between horror and comedy is on display in every frame of director Chris McKay’s Renfield, a new take on the Dracula legend which finds humor in upping the emotional stakes of the story by introducing using modern sensibilities and ideas about self care. Nicholas Hoult stars as R.M. Renfield, the loyal servant of
Film Review: Chupa
Chupa has its heart firmly in the right place, and as live action, family-friendly entertainment goes, it’s above average. … read more
Film Review: Air
Air is a return to form for Ben Affleck the director and Matt Damon the actor, and hopefully it’s the beginning of a renaissance for both. … read more
A.V. Rockwell on the Connective Tissue of A Thousand and...
The future looks bright for A Thousand And One and for Rockwell, who is filled with stories to tell and has a passion for her art form and her city. … read more
Film Review: Tetris
Tetris is an enjoyable and engrossing way to pass time. All the pieces come together to score some points in Apple’s quest to level up as a top player in film. … read more
Film Review: Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is a clever and exciting adventure film that actually feels fresh and innovative. … read more
Film Review: John Wick: Chapter 4
John Wick: Chapter 4, the supposed final installment, ranks among the most skillfully executed gun ballet movies ever made. … read more
Film Review: Shazam! Fury of the Gods
Shazam! Fury of the Gods is a breath of fresh air, rejuvenating a stagnating genre with fun and cohesive storytelling that lately has been nearly absent. … read more
Film Review: Champions
Champions is made for people looking for an uplifting and entertaining two hours at the movies, and it works nicely on that level. … read more
Film Review: Creed III
Creed III is another formulaic entry in a decades-long series—it’s also a strong example of why it has endured as a cultural touchstone. … read more
Film Review: Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre
Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre is just barely fun enough if you go in with expectations in check, though it’s all been done before in better films. … read more
Film Review: Cocaine Bear
Cocaine Bear is one of the most entertaining movies of the year so far and without question the stupidest film destined to be a cult classic. … read more
Film Review: Emily
Emily is an insightful extrapolation of the life of an Emily Bronte, and it’s likely to be a significant entry in the careers of both its director and its star. … read more
Film Review: Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania
If you’re looking for your Marvel fix, Quantumania will suffice. After all, you never have to wait long for the next one. … read more
Film Review: Your Place or Mine
Your Place Or Mine is the rom-com equivalent of a generic greeting card, and there aren’t even any chocolates included. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Theater Camp
The subject of Theater Camp is ripe for comedy, but it feels painfully forced if it’s not done right. Thankfully, this one more or less succeeds. … read more
Film Review: Living
Living is an uplifting and heartfelt film that is never cloying and never dwelling on its sad moments, provoking plenty of genuine warmth. … read more
Who’s Annie Stars Annie Pisapia, Sophia Peer and The Burger...
Who’s Annie? is a meta, comedic take on Annie Pisapia and Sophia Peer’s real life friendship and working relationship. … read more
Sundance Film Review: When It Melts
Despite the immense talent involved, Sundance film When it Melts is a frustrating failure both as a film and as a statement on an important and timely topic. … read more
Director Toby Genkel on The Amazing Maurice and That Pratchett...
Director Toby Genkel’s new film, The Amazing Maurice, a subversively cynical animated take on the Pied Piper of Hamelin’s story. … read more
Sundance Film Review: STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie
Sundance biopic STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie provokes plenty of emotion without ever stooping to being a manipulative tearjerker. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Blueback
Starring Mia Wasikowska, the Sundance feature Blueback is an entertaining family film that wears its conservationist credentials on its sleeve. … read more
Sundance Film Review: A Little Prayer
The family drama A Little Prayer is a reminder that the once-budding young playwright and filmmaker Angus MacLachlan has come a long way. … read more
Film Review: Flora and Son
If you’re longing for a movie that will make you smile, wipe away your tears and start tapping your toes, Flora and Son hits all the right notes. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Eileen
Eileen is an engaging, pulpy diversion that plays like an old-fashioned dime novel you had never planned to read but find that you can’t put down. … read more
Film Review: Broker
Despite dealing with serious, morally murky and upsetting subjects, Broker presents it all with sweetness and irresistible charm. … read more
Adura Onashile Brings Girl Power to the Screen
Director Adura Onashile talks to SLUG about her Sundance feature, Girl, and the power of drawing a story out of a film through accomplished actors. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Sometimes I Think About Dying
Daisy Ridley adds a humanity that the script struggles to find, making Sometimes I Think About Dying a dry and extremely frustrating experience. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Fancy Dance
Fancy Dance stands as both a cry for help for the victimized and missing and a defiant cry of strength from those who refuse to stop looking for them. … read more
Film Review: A Man Called Otto
A Man Called Otto is an excellent showcase for one of the top movie stars of the past 50 years and a poignant study of loneliness, despair and love. … read more
Noah’s Arc Continues in Leverage: Redemption Season Two
Leverage: Redemption tackles serious themes relevant to the world we live in, and does it in a way that allows the audience to have some fun along the way. … read more
The Top 11 Films of 2022
That’s a wrap on another year of moviegoing, folks, and what a year! Patrick Gibbs presents his picks for The Top 11 Films of 2022, in alphabetical order. … read more
Film Review: Babylon
While Babylon has hilarious moments and visual marvels scattered throughout its mammoth runtime, Chazelle never lets up on bombarding audiences with excess. … read more
Film Review: The Whale
The Whale is an unrelentingly repulsive and degrading film that does everything in its power to treat its lead character as if he were part of a freak show. … read more
Film Review: Emancipation
Given the current climate where too many Americans want to downplay or ignore the history and lingering effects of slavery, Emancipation deserves to be seen. … read more
Jonathan Kasdan On the Magic of Willow
Jonathan Kasdan, writer of Solo: A Star Wars Story, talks about the creative direction of Disney+’s Willow and its Star Wars connection. … read more
Film Review: Avatar: The Way of Water
Avatar: The Way of Water commits all of the major sins of an unnecessary sequel and delivers big disappointment for fans and a smug affirmation for detractors. … read more
Film Review: Empire of Light
Director Sam Mendes returns to his roots with the intimate character drama Empire of Light, the latest entry in the “love letter to the movies” genre. … read more
Film Review: Violent Night
Starring David Harbour, Violent Night is a naughty treat that makes the nice list for those needing an edgier alternative to Hallmark movies. … read more
Film Review: Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams
Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams is a sincere effort, yet it remains an unimaginative, paint-by-numbers piece of filmmaking entry for a generally great director. … read more
Film Review: Strange World
Strange World is a throwback to the popular pulp of the ’40s and ’50s and updated for modern audiences with progressive sensibilities. … read more
Film Review: The Fabelmans
The Fabelmans, Steven Spielberg’s intimate self-portrait, is the film that I’ve been waiting to see for most of my life. … read more
Film Review: Bones and All
It’s fair to say that Luca Guadagnino’s cannibal love story, Bones and All, is the perfect film for the Thanksgiving holiday. … read more
Film Review: She Said
At a time when the #metoo movement is experiencing heartbreaking setbacks, She Said will hopefully serve as a rallying cry—victim’s voices will not be silenced. … read more
Film Review: The Menu
The intriguing new horror comedy The Menu serves up a rich, exquisite premise with plenty of flavor, yet the meal feels frustratingly undercooked. … read more
Film Review: Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio
Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio is an inspired labor of love, a dream project for the director that has been a long time in the making, and manages to stand out in a year that is overflowing with top-tier animated films. … read more
To Leslie, Thanks For Everything, Stephen Root
While you may not know the name Stephen Root off the top of your head, you’ve almost certainly seen him or heard his voice in multiple films or television series over the years. … read more
Film Review: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Whether Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is one of 2022’s hits rests largely on whether the film’s somber tone will lend itself to repeat viewings. … read more
Film Review: Armageddon Time
The semi-autobiographical feature has become a major trend among top-tier directors, and Armageddon Time desperately wants to be counted among them. … read more
Film Review: Enola Holmes 2
The arrival of Enola Holmes 2 signals that the young star has brought the streaming giant the one thing they’ve had trouble finding: a genuine movie franchise. … read more
Film Review: The Banshees of Inisherin
The Banshees of Inisherin is an instant classic, a perfect blend of the absurd and the profound, and it’s likely to be one of the defining films of 2022. … read more
Film Review: Decision To Leave
Decision to Leave is a spellbinding experience, a transportive trip back in time to a different era of filmmaking that brings enough ingenuity and modern edge. … read more
Henry Selick Is Back For More Spooky Fun with Wendell...
Wendell & Wild is another triumph for a Henry Selick, handling weighty topics for thoughtful discussion—grab your popcorn for the movie event of Halloween. … read more
Film Review: All Quiet on the Western Front
All Quiet on the Western Front should be required viewing as a counterpoint for young people who are considering joining the Armed Forces. … read more
Film Review: Till
Whether or not Till is among the most cutting-edge films of the year, it’s a powerful experience with a sense of urgency and truth that demands to be seen. … read more
Film Review: Black Adam
While Black Adam gets pretty dumb at times, viewing it in the right conditions may bring you around—you might even want to see it twice. … read more
Film Review: The School for Good and Evil
A good tween recommendation with themes of superficial ideas of good and evil, The School for Good and Evil is campy & witchy—perfect for the Halloween season. … read more
Film Review: Tár
Todd Field’s dry approach isn’t going to work for everyone, but if you love great music and great acting, Tár hits all the right notes. … read more
Sam Levy On Shooting Confess, Fletch
Murder mystery comedy Confess, Fletch proves to be a perfect fit as Sam Levy’s next feature, and there’s no mystery as to why he chose to do the film. … read more
Julian Higgins Takes The Western Into New Territory
God’s Country is a meticulously crafted, thought-provoking film establishing Julian Higgins as one of the boldest rising talents in the industry today. … read more
Film Review: Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile
Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is a thoroughly entertaining, good-hearted and well-made little gem that deserves to be looked upon with an open mind. … read more
Puffs Brings A Bit of Unauthorized Magic to Trolley Square
Puffs follows the years when “The Boy Who Lived” attended a certain famous wizarding school, told from the point of view of one of the less prominent houses. … read more
Film Review: Amsterdam
While there’s far too much to love about Amsterdam to dismiss it as a failure, the clunky missteps make it difficult to embrace as a true success. … read more
Film Review: Blonde
Blonde’s cast are doing their best with cardboard characterizations, and each of them is failed by bad material in this sleazy, stupid, grease stain of a movie. … read more
Film Review: Hocus Pocus 2
Hocus Pocus 2 is aimed at the audience who knows they want to see it, and it’s a decent, disposable Halloween movie for kids—nothing more or less. … read more
Film Review: The Greatest Beer Run Ever
The Greatest Beer Run Ever provides moderate enjoyment and is aimed at audiences who are used to films pulling their punches. … read more
Film Review: See How They Run
Here’s a clue: don’t walk, run to your local movie house to crack See How They Run wide open—if you’re looking to get sucked into a good story. … read more
Film Review: The Woman King
It took something special to really pull me into that kind of movie again. Specifically, it took Viola Davis, Gina Prince-Bythewood and The Woman King. … read more
Film Review: Clerks III
Let’s be clear that Clerks III is for die-hard, obsessive fans of Kevin Smith, who has made this movie for himself first and fans as a close second. … read more
Invincible Czars Bring New Bite To A 100-Year-Old Vampire Movie
Nosferatu celebrates its centennial this year, and the Salt Lake Film Society is giving you the chance to experience the film as you’ve never seen it before. … read more
Film Review: Pinocchio
A fun and joyful rendition, Pinocchio earns a solid recommendation from SLUG, and you might even find yourself watching it more than once. … read more
Making Great TV is A Walk in the Park for...
The third season of Josh Gad’s Central Park on AppleTV+ brings plenty of laughs and show-stopping musical numbers while also tackling serious subjects. … read more
Film Review: Gigi & Nate
The performances in Gigi & Nate range from broadly stereotypical to awkwardly wooden, and the only character with any kind of nuance is the monkey. … read more
Film Review: Burial
While not a bad film and worthy of a rental, Burial is simply not the movie that it had the potential to be. … read more
Film Review: Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul
Honk For Jesus. Save Your Soul is a decent film with enough energetic charm and skill behind it to highlight the promising talents of its cast. … read more
Film Review: Breaking
Breaking falls short of a modern classic, yet it remains an involving film that is easily my pick for the best new film opening this weekend. … read more
Film Review: Three Thousand Years of Longing
In Three Thousand Years of Longing, George Miller may have earned the clout to make something utterly flat, but audiences have the right to a better time. … read more
Michelle Danner Talks The Runner
If there’s anyone who knows a thing or two about the correlation between art and education, it’s Michelle Danner, the director of the new thriller, The Runner. … read more
James Morosini On The Emotional Truth of I Love My...
I Love My Dad is an equal mix of outrageously hilarious and deeply touching, representing a breakthrough for director James Morosini as an ambitious artist. … read more
Film Review: Fall
Director Scott Mann certainly knows how to stage exciting action but Fall is a stupid movie, though when it’s just having fun with its own silliness, it’s actually quite an entertaining one. … read more
Dale Dickey and Wes Studi Carry A Love Song In...
Dale Dickey and Wes Studi of A Love Song speak eloquently about the nature of love and loneliness, often without saying a word at all. … read more
Jono McCloud on the Lessons Learned From My Old School
My Old School, a documentary feature from director Jono McCloud, chronicles the tale of the greatest “remember when?” high school stories of all time. … read more
Simon Pegg Talks Isolation, Mental Health and Luck
In Simon Pegg’s latest project, Luck, the new film from Skydance Animation and AppleTV+, we learn how he’s made it all possible: Pegg has nine lives. … read more
Film Review: Prey
For the first time in 35 years, the Predator franchise has given us a movie that knows exactly what it wants to be and delivers on its promising potential. … read more
Film Review: Thirteen Lives
Howard has made a straightforward chronicle of the events and the people who came together to make a miracle happen in Thirteen Lives. … read more
The Zion King Returns Home with Jewtah
Jeremy Rishe, writer and star of Jewtah, grew up in Utah in the ’80s and ’90s, raised in Mormon-centric culture, as a practicing Jew. … read more
Film Review: They/Them
As a slasher movie, They/Them is far below average. As a psychological horror movie, it simply paints with strokes that are far too broad to be truly effective. … read more
Film Review: Resurrection
Whether it’s your cup of tea or not, Resurrection, the provocative psychological thriller from director Andrew Semens, is certainly unique. … read more
Utah Women Make Their Voices Heard in Monologues From A...
Monologues From A Movement, an original stage play written by Amanda Caraway and directed by Cami Rozanas, is all about giving Utah women a chance to be heard. … read more
Film Review: DC League of Super-Pets
Animated film DC League of Super-Pets is a pure gold film—it’s the superhero movie that we need and the one that our kids deserve. … read more
Film Review: Vengeance
Comedy thriller Vengeance provides a sharp, entertaining film with a stellar cast and quirky, subversive sense of humor. … read more
Looking Beneath The Surface with Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Oliver Jackson-Cohen
Gugu Mbatha-Raw has had a career full of memorable experiences; now she stars in Surface, a series that explores memories, and what happens when they are gone. … read more
Film Review: Marcel The Shell With Shoes On
Marcel The Shell With Shoes On proves that sometimes the most insightful films about humanity don’t need to be about humans. … read more
Film Review: The Gray Man
The Gray Man, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, is a ’90s throwback featuring classic cringey, cartoonish dialogue, and fast-paced chase scenes. … read more
Film Review: Where The Crawdads Sing
Where The Crawdads Sing, the screen adaptation of Delia Owens’ almost ludicrously bestselling novel, wasn’t exactly made with me in mind. … read more
Film Review: Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank
Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank moves quickly enough to keep kids entertained, and my nephews had a lot of fun with it, which meant that I did too. … read more
Film Review: Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is a movie that makes you feel honestly happy, inspired and appreciative, a beautiful fairy tale to share with people you care about … read more
Film Review: Persuasion
Carrie Cracknell brings a tasteful and modern adaptation to Jane Austen’s final novel. Persuasion offers a creative new spin on a classic. … read more
How Chris Williams Conquered The Sea Beast
When Chris Williams pitched the concept for The Sea Beast to Netflix Animation, the streaming giant was sold on his creative vision. … read more
Dennis Lehane and Paul Walter Hauser on Black Bird
Dennis Lehane, who adapted the true-crime miniseries Black Bird for television, speaks to the difficulties in adapting nonfiction stories for the screen. … read more
Emma Holly Jones on Mr. Malcolm’s List
Emma Holly Jones, the producer and director of Mr. Malcom’s List, was born and raised in England and grew up watching BBC adaptations of Austen’s books. … read more
Film Review: Thor: Love and Thunder
Thor: Love and Thunder was a creative shot in the musclebound arm for Marvel, and it’s the first time since Endgame that I feel the need to see a Marvel twice. … read more
Film Review: Minions: The Rise of Gru
Minions: The Rise of Gru benefits from centering Steve Carrell, though there’s simply no getting around the fact that the whole schtick is wearing thin. … read more
Film Review: The Forgiven
The Forgiven features unforgettable performances and an apparently shallow outlook that deceptively hides layers of intriguing ideas for audiences to peel away. … read more
Film Review: Official Competition
Official Competition is a clever comedy I can easily see becoming a beloved favorite among the target audience of cinephiles, the creative and artistic. … read more
Series Review: Only Murders in the Building: Season 2
I have no clue as to just how many good seasons Only Murders in the Building will have, but if they are even half as entertaining, I’ll be watching. … read more
Film Review: The Phantom of the Open
The Phantom of the Open left me feeling invigorated and rejuvenated, and it’s on par with some of the best films of the genre. … read more
Home is Where the Heart is For Davey Fest
The idea of kicking off the 2022 edition of the Davey Fest with a screening of My Heart Can’t Beat Unless You Tell it To felt right to the Cuartas brothers. … read more
Film Review: Elvis
As a spectacle and an experience, Luhrman’s Elvis is satisfying and invigorating, a rhinestone-studded summer extravaganza done with skill and love. … read more
Interview: Makeup Designer Donald Mowat
Donald Mowat, the Oscar-nominated makeup designer on Dune, No Time To Die and Moon Knight, grew up to be the guy who makes our heroes look good. … read more
Film Review: The Lost Girls
The Lost Girls, a retelling of Peter Pan from a female perspective, is a treatise on trying to avoid growing up that merely left me trying to avoid throwing up. … read more
Film Review: Lightyear
Lightyear proves itself more of a children’s sci-fi action movie than a Toy Story prequel. The memorable cast make Lightyear an out-of-this-world summer flick. … read more
Film Review: Benediction
There’s much to admire in Terence Davies’ newest film, and the best elements of Benediction easily carry it through the weaker moments. … read more
Film Review: Jurassic World Dominion
Jurassic World Dominion is a bit of a mess, and while I enjoyed it a lot, I simply can’t call it a genuinely good film and keep any credibility as a critic. … read more
Film Review: Watcher
Watcher is a thoroughly satisfying suspense movie that proves that a film doesn’t have to take an in-your-face approach to get inside your head. … read more
Interview: Love, Algorithms and Ted Lasso Intersect in Pragma
Pragma, a short film from Lucy Heath, Ellie Heydon and Phil Dunster, is a clever British comedy making a world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 10. … read more
Film Review: Hustle
If you’re looking for something without CGI but aren’t quite in the mood for challenging arthouse fare, Hustle scores enough points to make it a winning choice. … read more
Film Review: Crimes of the Future
Crimes of the Future is definitely not for all tastes, though fans of Cronenberg, and lovers of the macabre, will likely find it to be a must-see. … read more
Interview: The Politics, Corruption and Comedy of 18½
18½ is a wild and memorable comedy reminiscent of the classic subversive satires of Robert Altman with a freshness that’s all its own. … read more
Film Review: Interceptor
There are much worthier ways to waste your time and brain cells than Interceptor and too many superior steaming options to make it worth giving a chance. … read more
Film Review: Top Gun: Maverick
When you’re planning your summer moviegoing fun, I would strongly suggest making Top Gun: Maverick your top priority, and yes, see it in IMAX. … read more
Series Review: Stranger Things: Season 4, Volume 1
Volume 1 will keep you hooked all the way to the end of episode seven. The bad news, of course, is that we have to wait until July for Season 4: Volume 2. … read more
Film Review: Bob’s Burgers Movie
The Bob’s Burgers Movie is a piece of comfort food moviegoing that I didn’t even know I needed right now. … read more
The World is a Dangerous Playground in Eskil Vogt’s The...
Patrick Gibbs interviews Eskil Voigt, the writer and director of The Innocents, about how his film about children with super powers came to fruition. … read more
Film Review: Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers
Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is an eye-popping, gut-busting knee slapper that is likely to be among the most satisfying films of the summer movie season. … read more
Film Review: Men
Men had me spellbound from beginning to end, but even for those who are familiar with Garland’s work, it’s a film that requires patience and effort. … read more
Film Review: Senior Year
Senior Year is crass and stupid, and yet there are just enough working elements to make the film something you’ll have an easy enough time streaming once. … read more
Glenn Close and Niv Sultan on Tehran: Season 2
Patrick Gibbs interviews Niv Sultan and Glenn Close of the Apple TV+ series Tehran about the show and Close joining the series’ second season. … read more
Film Review: The Duke
The Duke is the kind of film that gives feel-good movies a good name, and it’s proof that even if crime doesn’t pay, it can be incredibly entertaining. … read more
Film Review: Pompo: The Cinephile
The fan base of the original manga would indicate there’s an audience for Pompo: The Cinephile, but its appeal and audience feel specific and niche. … read more
Film Review: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness felt far more like a product I was being sold than an actual movie. This just isn’t cinema. … read more
Film Review: Firebird
There’s something important to be said in Firebird, and hopefully a story on its subject will be put in more skilled hands and inspired minds next time around. … read more
John Madden Takes on Love, War and Storytelling in Operation...
For John Madden, who is in his fourth decade directing for the screen, Operation Mincemeat is a noteworthy entry in a magnificent career. … read more
Film Review: Memory
Martin Campbell clearly doesn’t have another classic left in him, but anything else would make a less pathetic last entry in the veteran director’s filmography. … read more
LDS History Meets Murder Mystery in Under The Banner of...
Under The Banner of Heaven serves as a sobering reminder that, 38 years later, wounds left by the series-inspiring Lafferty case are not likely to go away any time soon. … read more
Showrunner Jared Stern Talks Green Eggs and Ham: The Second...
Jared Stern has so much to do now, with shows and movies to make. But 10 years spent on Green Eggs and Ham still takes the cake. … read more
Film Review: The Bad Guys
The Bad Guys isn’t anything particularly new or innovative, but it’s solid entertainment taken on its own merits and worth a rental at the very least. … read more
Film Review: The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent is silly, enjoyable proof that the newly debt-free Nic Cage can finally be more selective about his projects again. … read more
Film Review: The Northman
Despite the arthouse cred the Eggers name brings, The Northman didn’t stray far enough from Hollywood conventions for my taste. … read more
Film Review: Aline
Aline hits one false note after another, and as much as I’m loath to stoop to such a cheap reference, yes, my hate will go on and on. … read more
Film Review: Les Olympiades (Paris, 13th District)
Paris, 13th District borders on trifling, which is disappointing given this comes from misguided choices rather than a lack of substantive ideas. … read more
Series Review: A Very British Scandal
A Very British Scandal is sordid without being trashy, but it’s very definitely aimed at those who enjoy watching painful drama unfold. … read more
Film Review: Ambulance
Ambulance works only in the sense that the title tells its whole story: a loud, irritating noise warning us to get out of the way, letting it pass us by. … read more
Film Review: Everything Everywhere All At Once
Everything Everywhere All At Once is rewarding for those interested in a ride through multiple universes and a tender exploration of the fragile human psyche. … read more
Simchas and Sorrows Finds Comedy In Relationships and Religion
How far would you go to win the approval of your future in-laws? This question is at the heart of Simchas and Sorrows, a new film from Genevieve Adams … read more
Film Review: Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore
The Secrets of Dumbledore acted as a port key back to my happy place, enough so that I was able to forgive the shortcomings to a point that I will see it again. … read more
Film Review: The Bubble
Judd Apatow’s tendency to believe that too much is never enough is frustrating to say the least, giving The Bubble a feeling of half-baked indulgence. … read more
Film Review: Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood
Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood is a snapshot that revels in the nostalgia of anyone who dreamed of flying into space alongside the original astronauts … read more
Series Review: Moon Knight
Moon Knight stands as something new and exciting in a way that nothing since WandaVision has been able to accomplish. … read more
Film Review: The Lost City
There should be no illusions that you’re going into anything great here. The Lost City too often undermines its own potential by playing things too broadly. … read more
Film Review: Infinite Storm
Infinite Storm is too grounded in reality to be thrilling escapist action but far too labored and maudlin in its quieter character moments to work as a drama. … read more
Film Review: Windfall
I consider Jessie Plemons to be one the finest actors working today, which is all the more reason to resent Windfall for wasting his talent and my time. … read more
The Unsinkable Teemu Nikki and Jani Pösö
Patrick Gibbs speaks with Teemu Nikki and Jani Pösö about how their film The Blind Man Who Did Not Want To See Titanic represents a blind perspective. … read more
Film Review: The Outfit
The Outfit is the most entertaining and satisfying film to hit theaters this year so far and a fine addition to the mobster genre. … read more
Oscar Nominee Martin Strange-Hansen Has A Lot On His Mind
Strange-Hansen is an artist whose talent and vision continue to leave a mark everywhere in the filmmaking world, because Martin always has a story on his mind. … read more
Film Review: The Adam Project
The Adam Project is a can’t-miss event of family fun that isn’t going to be on any top ten lists, but it gave Patrick Gibbs exactly what he wanted. … read more
Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja Talks Life After Yang and Working With...
Patrick Gibbs interviews 10-year-old actor and performer Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja on her experience working with Colin Farrel in After Yang. … read more
Film Review: Gold
Gold feels like an impressive demo reel for both Efron and Hayes than it does like a substantive film that will leave any kind of lasting impression. … read more
Film Review: Turning Red
Turning Red, Pixar’s latest, is an escape from the worrisome state of the world right now, a perfect ray of sunshine that couldn’t have come at a better time. … read more
Film Review: Huda’s Salon
Huda’s Salon doesn’t provide any easy answers, nor does it try to do so, but it does offer a provocative look at the realities of living in occupied territory … read more
Film Review: The Batman
Patrick Gibbs admired The Batman more than he enjoyed it, predicting a polarizing reaction that puts critics, fanboys and the public all in different camps. … read more
Film Review: Studio 666
With a built-in, devoted fan base through its Foo Fighters connection, Studio 666 is almost certain to become an instant cult favorite. … read more
Film Review: Cyrano
As Patrick Gibbs watched Joe Wright’s new musical film adaption, Cyrano, the only feelings he experienced were irritation and confusion. … read more
Dante Basco On Directing his Fabulous Filipino Brothers
For actor Dante Basco, who played Rufio in Spielberg’s Hook, growing up has meant moving from in front of the camera to sitting in the director’s chair. … read more
Review: Space Force: Season 2
It’s with mixed feelings that Patrick Gibbs says that he’ll be surprised if the entire Space Force mission isn’t soon scrapped. … read more
Film Review: Uncharted
The wait for the film adaptation of popular video games series Uncharted has certainly paid off, as the finished product is genuinely damn near adequate. … read more
Josephine Decker and Grace Kaufman Talk The Sky Is Everywhere
If you’re looking for a Valentine’s film, consider The Sky is Everywhere, the new film adapted from the young adult novel by Jandy Nelson. … read more
Film Review: Death on the Nile
Mystery fans and anyone who loves river-filling quantities of champagne should find Death on the Nile to be a trip worth taking. … read more
The Jim Henson Company Goes Back To Fraggle Rock
It’s time to dance your cares away and let the music play, because the ’80s classic Fraggle Rock has returned in an exciting reboot. … read more
Film Review: Blacklight
Blacklight has the kind of “let’s get this done quickly so we can move onto the next one” feel of Clint Eastwood’s most disposable ’90s films. … read more
Rob Paulsen Talks Animaniacs, Ninja Turtles and Winning His Battle...
While you may have never even heard his name, chances are you’ve heard Rob Paulson’s voice many times in many different forms. … read more
Film Review: Moonfall
While Moonfall only gets stupider as it goes, the further it falls into idiocy the harder it is not to have a bit of fun. … read more
The Event is A Short Film You’ll Want To Make...
Patrick Gibbs speaks with Frank Mosley and Hugo De Sousa, the Co-directors of the 2022 Slamdance short film The Event. … read more
Ben Schwartz and More on Why The Afterparty Is The...
“How can I survive going to my high school reunion?” The Afterparty answers that question with an all-star cast. … read more
Iron Family Is The Moviegoing Experience of Two Lifetimes
Iron Family is a Slamdance documentary that inspires us to reflect on our own triumphs and challenges through the story of the Faries family. … read more
Every Day in Kaimukī Rides A Wave of Authenticity
SLUG Contributing Writer Patrick Gibbs talks to Every Day in Kaimukī director Alika Tengan about the inspiration for his film and more. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Call Jane
Call Jane is a hell of a good movie, the first potential hit of the festival this year and one that’s sure to start a lot of discussion. … read more
Sundance Film Review: You Won’t Be Alone
Goran Stolevski’s debut feature, You Won’t Be Alone, is an adequate if unexceptional film with scattered moments that come alive. … read more
I Didn’t See You There Presents A Different Point of...
I Didn’t See You There is a captivating look at Reid Davenport’s life, going about his day and looking at the world from his point of view. … read more
Film Review: The King’s Daughter
The King’s Daughter is enjoyable when it’s frivolous entertainment but insufferable when it gets lost in heavy-handed political diatribe. … read more
Girl Picture Is A Clear, Crisp Snapshot of Real Teenage...
Girl Picture is a fresh and unique piece of cinematic storytelling that won’t soon be forgotten by those who made it or anyone who sees it. … read more
Denzel Washington and Corey Hawkins on The Tragedy of Macbeth...
For Corey Hawkins and Denzel Washington, working with Joel Coen in his screen version of Macbeth was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. … read more
Sundance Film Review: When You Finish Saving the World
Jesse Eisenberg’s When You Finish Saving The World is a worthy effort that could have been something special, but it’s just kind of there. … read more
Film Review: Hotel Transylvania: Transformania
The wholly unnecessary fourth installment, Hotel Transylvania: Transformania, may actually be the most entertaining. … read more
Long Line of Ladies Is More Than Just Another Period...
Rayka Zehtabchi and Shaandiin Tome knew that the story of the Ihuk flower dance was one they were looking to tell with Long Line of Ladies. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Good Luck To You, Leo Grande
Good Luck To You, Leo Grande may be a bit uninhibited for some, but it’s a thought-provoking look at human sexuality and relationships. … read more
Sundance Film Review: God’s Country
God’s Country is a great piece of storytelling and a rewarding cinematic experience; it ranks among the best features at Sundance 2022. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Emily the Criminal
Emily The Criminal is a breakthrough for its writer-director, John Patton Ford, but an even bigger one for its star, Aubrey Plaza. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Dual
Riley Sterns’ Dual stops short of being a classic, but it’s a winning comedy that thrives thanks to its leading lady, Emma Thompson. … read more
Brian and Charles Brings a Whimsical Tale of Friendship and...
David Earl, Jim Archer and Chris Hayward discuss the path toward the creation of their zany AI comedy, Brian and Charles. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Babysitter
Babysitter is creative, charming and provocative, even if not everything that director Monia Cokri throws at the wall is quite able to stick. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Am I Ok?
Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne’s Am I Ok? is a great movie; it’s heartwarming and at times heartbreaking but always heartfelt. … read more
Sundance Film Review: Alice
There’s no question that Alice is a rousing and thrilling moviegoing experience, but there’s a lot of question as to whether it should be. … read more
Sundance Film Review: After Yang
After Yang is an involving and ambitious film that’s well worth seeing, and it raises a lot of very interesting philosophical questions. … read more
Sundance Film Review: A Love Song
A Love Song is exactly the kind of diamond-in-the-rough that makes the Sundance Film Festival something that I look forward to each year. … read more
Film Review: A Hero
A Hero, the new film from acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi, takes direct aim at the issue of right vs. wrong. … read more
Film Review: The 355
The best thing about The 355 is that it’s fast moving, and the cast is an impressive bunch, but the 355 should have been a lot better. … read more
Film Review: The Legend of La Llorona
The only thing that is actually scary about The Legend of La Llorona is that, somehow, it got made and you can watch it. … read more
The Top 11 Films of 2021
As we prepare for a new year and new movies, Patrick Gibbs presents his picks for the Top 11 films of 2021. … read more
Film Review: Licorice Pizza
Licorice Pizza is delightful, if a bit aimless, and it’s expertly done, but the central relationship leaves viewers with too many concerns. … read more
Review: Cobra Kai: Season 4
Cobra Kai is the Wendy’s of television: it’s junk fast food, but it’s really good junk fast food that goes down easily and is a nice treat. … read more
Film Review: The King’s Man
The King’s Man is not one of the great prequels of all time, but it’s a big step up from the bad taste that Golden Circle left. … read more
Film Review: The Matrix Resurrections
If you’re going into The Matrix Resurrections expecting an experience that matches the original, prepare to be brutally crushed like an ant. … read more
Franka Potente Directs Aisling Franciosi and Kathy Bates in a...
Franka Potente may be behind the camera this time around, but in front of it, Aisling Franciosi and Academy Award-winner Kathy Bates help shape Home. … read more
Film Review: Spider-Man: No Way Home
Spider-Man: No Way Home ranks as one of the most entertaining MCU entries and is perhaps even one of the most satisfying superhero movies ever made. … read more
Film Review: Nightmare Alley
Guilliermo del Toro knows how to make a beguiling visual feast, and Nightmare Alley is a dark, titillating journey into an unsettling world. … read more
Film Review: Being the Ricardos
Being the Ricardos never quite steps out of its predecessor’s looming shadow, but it’s an enjoyable film that does right by its subjects. … read more
Film Editor Úna Ní Dhonghaíle on Her Experiences with Branagh...
Úna Ní Dhonghaíle has had a remarkable career, but in cutting Belfast, she got a chance to help one of her idols shape his life into art. … read more
Film Review: Don’t Look Up
Don’t Look Up is the kind of satire that will leave smart viewers thinking about it when they least expect it for years and decades to come. … read more
Film Review: West Side Story
Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story is essentially the same as the original film, but with a more nuanced and timely vision. … read more
Film Review: C’mon C’mon
Everything about Mike Mills’ C’mon C’mon, from the gorgeous black-and-white cinematography to the editing, is pure perfection. … read more
Composer Carter Burwell’s Bright Manhattan Mornings and Dark Scottish Nights
The prolific composer Carter Burwell’s filmography spans 37 years, but this icon of film music never planned on composing for movies. … read more
Film Review: Bruised
Even if it lacks inspiration, Halle Berry approaches her directorial debut, Bruised, with workman-like precision and confidence. … read more
The Many Loves of Eleanor Coppola
Eleanor Coppola explores love, the connections that we make and the bonds we share in her new anthology film, Love is Love is Love. … read more
Film Review: Julia
Julia may not be the most life-changing or insightful documentary of the year, but it’s elegant, sweet and baked to perfection. … read more
Film Review: House of Gucci
House of Gucci follows Patrizia Reggiani’, an outsider from humble beginnings, in her marriage to Maurizio Gucci. … read more
From SLC To MCU: VFX Editor Hannah Long’s Super Career
By Patrick Gibbs pinkwombatcinema@gmail.com Every year at the Sundance Film Festival, Utah becomes a destination spot for filmmakers. For Hannah Long, a Lead Visual Effects Editor for Marvel Studios, Salt Lake is where it all began. “My family moved to Salt Lake when I was one year old,” Long says. “My dad‘s a … a
Film Review: King Richard
King Richard is inspiring and well worth seeing. It’s a return to form for Smith and a good film if taken on its own merits. … read more
Film Review: Ghostbusters: Afterlife
Ghostbusters: Afterlife is funny, exciting, suspenseful, heartfelt and is made with an equal combination of passion and skill. … read more
Film Review: The Power of the Dog
The Power of the Dog takes some time to digest, but it’s an unforgettable and challenging story that challenges the western genre. … read more
Film Review: Encanto
Encanto is a mesmerizing and insightful work of art that has a lot to say while retaining universal themes and characters. … read more
Film Review: Belfast
Belfast is among the very best films of 2021 and beyond, a triumphant and transportive cinematic experience. … read more
Film Review: Red Notice
Red Notice is a breezy, energetic romp that is easily one of the most briskly entertaining films of the fall season. … read more
Film Review: Spencer
Spencer may take a bit of time to digest and lack subtlety, but it ranks among the most interesting screen portrayals of historical figures. … read more
Film Review: Finch
Finch is a buddy road movie that isn’t always a smooth ride, however it certainly is one of the most involving major releases of the year. … read more
Film Review: Language Lessons
Language Lessons is an antidote to blockbuster burnout by breaking cinematic ground without throwing its creative innovations in your face. … read more
Film Review: Eternals
Eternals is likely to be the most polarizing MCU entry in some time, because it doesn’t fit easily inside a mold. … read more
Film Review: The French Dispatch of the Liberty, Kansas Evening...
The French Dispatch offers plenty of wonderful elements and a unique artistic voice that is likely to please most fans. … read more
Film Review: Last Night in Soho
Last Night in Soho works well enough to forgive its flaws, but it’s more a mildly psychedelic niche movie than a great film. … read more
Film Review: The Electrical Life of Louis Wain
The Electrical Life of Louis Wain is an imperfect but worthy effort that mirrors its own subject in that it can’t seem to come together. … read more
Film Review: The Harder They Fall
The Harder They Fall is a big, bold, badass blast of fun and it’s one of the most satisfying gourmet popcorn flicks of the year. … read more
Film Review: Halloween Kills
Halloween Kills is a crass, stupid and morally repugnant mess of a movie that should have been called Halloween Kills Time. … read more
Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Friends Talk Creating Wolfboy and The Everything...
Wolfboy and the Everything Factory is a charming adventure that is sure to spark the imaginations of children and adults alike. … read more
Film Review: Dune
Is Denis Villenueve’s epic adaptation of the seminal science fiction novel, Dune the predestined box office savior that has been prophesied? … read more
Film Review: Ron’s Gone Wrong
Ron’s Gone Wrong is pure joy, and it’s the kind of film that encapsulates everything there is to love about the moviegoing experience. … read more
Noah Wyle Talks Pulling Off Cons With The Pros on...
It’s been almost 9 years since the hit series Leverage ended its successful run, but as Yogi Berra said, “it ain’t over till it’s over.” … read more
Film Review: The Last Duel
The Last Duel explores justice, abuse, cowardice, bravery and responsibility and examines what honor means in real life and on screen. … read more
Film Review: I’m Your Man
I’m Your Man is a romantic dramedy with substance, charm and a sad sense of the frustrations of love, relationships and life goals. … read more
Film Review: Lamb
Lamb is a unique and deeply atmospheric film that stands out as unlike anything that’s hit theaters all year. … read more
Cinematographer Sam Levy Talks Mayday, a Feminist Fantasy That is...
Mayday is a unique film and, hopefully, the first of many feature-length collaborations between Sam Levy and Karen Cinorre. … read more
Film Review: Venom: Let There Be Carnage
Venom: Let There Be Carnage ranks far below Daredevil and Ghost Rider for Marvel-inspired movies and ranks among the worst films of the year. … read more
Film Review: The Addams Family 2
The Addams Family 2 snaps along with a certain degree of rhythm and has just enough of a sense of morbid fun to be surprisingly watchable. … read more
Film Review: No Time To Die
Not Time To Die is worth the wait, and it’s an exit that is worthy of the most interesting version of Bond that we’ve seen to date. … read more
Film Review: The Many Saints of Newark
The Many Saints of Newark has some terrific lead performances, including some of Ray Liotta’s best work in decades. … read more
Film Review: The Guilty
The Guilty is a satisfying thriller that dares to tackle some timely themes. Kudos to Gyllenhaal for a performance which anchors the film. … read more
Film Review: Dear Evan Hansen
Dear Evan Hansen gets a few points for trying to address weighty issues, but it’s one high school movie that simply doesn’t make the grade. … read more
Leah Harvey Lays the Foundation For a New Take on...
It doesn’t take a psychohistorian to foresee a bright future ahead for Leah Harvey, who stars as Salvor Hardin in sci-fi series Foundation. … read more
Film Review: The Starling
The Starling isn’t entirely without merit. But it’s as artificial and weak as big-budget Hollywood dramedies get. … read more
Film Review: Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
There’s no question in my mind that Everybody’s Talking About Jamie will be embraced by many as a modern classic. … read more
Film Review: Cry Macho
Cry Macho isn’t the best swan song Clint Eastwood could ever hope for, but it would be far from the worst. … read more
Film Review: The Alpinist
The Alpinist does its best to follow Leclerc as he travels from peak to peak with no cameras, no rope and no margin for error. … read more
Film Review: The Lost Leonardo
Unravelling the hidden agendas of the world’s richest men, this film reveals how truth became secondary to vested interests. … read more
Film Review: The Eyes of Tammy Faye
For a film about people who profess to be instruments of God, there is surprisingly little revelation on display in The Eyes of Tammy Faye. … read more
Film Review: The Card Counter
The Card Counter is moody and depressing at times, but it has a lot to say and kept me so glued to the screen that I barely blinked. … read more
Filmmaker Nick Fituri Scown Takes on Laughter and Tears with...
Too Soon: Comedy After 9/11 is a unique look at the first defining moment of the century and it’s a poignant portrait of the human spirit. … read more
Film Review: Small Engine Repair
Small Engine Repair is a remarkable film—a darkly comedic, nail-bitingly tense and, at times, emotional work that defies easy categorization. … read more
Film Review: Worth
When Worth kicks into gear, it’s a moving and interesting story that captures both a collective and individual experience. … read more
Film Revew: Cinderella
Cinderella feels more like Sunday-night television than a movie, but it’s just enjoyable enough, and well-intentioned enough, to get a pass. … read more
Series Review: Only Murders in the Building
Only Murders in the Building has an old-fashioned murder-mystery-in-a-modern-setting feel that’s a lot of fun. … read more
Film Review: Candyman
Candyman is dark, bloody and disturbing, and it reminded me how good horror can be when it’s got the right hook. … read more
Film Review: Not Going Quietly
Not Going Quietly isn’t always easy to watch, but it’s a lot more hopeful than you might expect, and never manipulative. … read more
Film Review: Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is filled with kung fu and narrow escapes and is exhilarating and insanely fun. … read more
Film Review: Together
Together is an imperfect film that isn’t going to work for all audiences, but it’s sincere effort that is both upsetting and cathartic. … read more
Film Review: The Protégé
If you really miss ’90s action flicks, The Protégé is going to be well worth a $6.99 rental when it hits digital. … read more
Film Review: The Night House
The Night House is likely too smart for mainstream horror fans and too dumb for the more discerning and thoughtful ones. … read more
CODA’s Cinematic Journey of Authenticity, Communication and Love
Siân Heder’s acclaimed feature CODA has been an emotional journey not just for the filmmaker and cast but for audiences, as well. … read more
Film Review: Beckett
In all honesty, Beckett is short and fairly watchable, but it’s just such a puzzlingly unexceptional experience. … read more
Film Review: Annette
Annette is that rare film that may well end up on a fair number of 10-best lists and an equal number of 10-worst. … read more
Film Review: Free Guy
All in all, while Free Guy is definitely light blockbuster fare, it’s one of the most enjoyable blockbusters of the summer. … read more
Film Review: Nine Days
Existential yet grounded in harsh reality at the same time, emotionally charged and deeply moving, Nine Days is everything that art should be. … read more
Film Review: The Suicide Squad
The Suicide Squad is filled with impressive visuals and has a strong sense of style. When the comedy is working, it’s not half bad. … read more
Film Review: Vivo
Vivo comes in a year when we’ve already had a number of truly great animated films. It’s a delightful experience that’s easily rewatchable. … read more
Film Review: The Green Knight
The Green Knight is a triumphant film, and easily one of the most artistically and intellectually satisfying of the summer. … read more
Cinematographers Look At The Big Picture: Moviemaking and Moviegoing in...
If there’s anyone out there who can shine a light on the workings of a film set in this era, it’s a film’s director of photography. … read more
Film Review: Jungle Cruise
Jungle Cruise is a bit of a bumpy ride, but the lighthearted sense of adventure overcomes all obstacles and makes an enjoyable summer movie. … read more
Film Review: Stillwater
Stillwater does drag in places, but it’s an interesting story that didn’t go where I expected it to go, focusing on characters over intrigue. … read more
Film Review: Old
Old is a nauseating spectacle that left me feeling angry, assaulted and distraught. M. Night Shyamalan continues his streak of mediocrity. … read more
Film Review: Val
The Val Kilmer biopic Val is an emotional journey that’s rewarding and a bittersweet portrait of what it means to live and love as an artist. … read more
Film Review: Joe Bell
Joe Bell is a well-intentioned, fact-based film that has its strengths but just doesn’t live up to the sum of its parts. … read more
Film Review: Space Jam: A New Legacy
Space Jam: A New Legacy is a loud, frenetic mess, but as a family night out, it’s almost adequate on a certain level. … read more
Carlos López Estrada Showcases Poetry in Motion Pictures with Summertime
Summertime, a new show from Carlos López Estrada, follows the stories of 27 young spoken-word poets over a single, sweltering summer’s day. … read more
Film Review: Gunpowder Milkshake
Gunpowder Milkshake is well served as Netflix fare, feeling a bit too slight for theaters but well worth viewing at home. … read more
Film Review: Pig
There’s a certain entertainment value in the schlock that Cage specializes in these days, and Pig promised to be one of craziest. … read more
Schmigadoon! Brings Mystical Musical Magic to AppleTV+
Schmigadoon! is is an energetic mix of old-fashioned musical fun with modern sensibilities, making it an entertaining highlight of the summer. … read more
Damn These Heels! 2021: Utah’s Top LGBTQ+ Film Festival Is...
Resilience is nothing new for the Damn These Heels Queer Film Festival, which has been running strong and fighting the odds for 18 years. … read more
Writer-Director Sasha Collington has Love Type D and a Passion...
Love Type D is a refreshingly unique film that provokes laughter throughout, though there’s more to it than just comedy. … read more
Film Review: The Tomorrow War
The Tomorrow War should be fairly popular with those who miss ’80s James Cameron, or at least ’90s Roland Emmerich. … read more
Hulu Documentary Nasrin Tells a Powerful Story of Heroism, Hope...
Nasrin tells the gripping story of Nasrin Sotoudeh, a courageous human rights lawyer and key figure in Iran’s women’s rights movement. … read more
Film Review: The Boss Baby: Family Business
While sticking to the original’s formula, The Boss Baby: Family Business is still an enjoyable family movie that comes dressed for success. … read more
Film Review: America: The Motion Picture
America: The Motion Picture builds a bridge between idiocy and brilliance, even if it’s constantly running back and forth. … read more
Film Review: The Ice Road
As it stands, Jonathan Hensleigh’s The Ice Road is moderately enjoyable but never rises much above that kind of faint-praise territory. … read more
Film Review: Black Widow
You were either going to see Black Widow or you weren’t but I would rank it among Marvel’s most interesting films. … read more
Film Review: F9: The Fast Saga
F9: The Fast Saga is a hard movie to sum up for a review because it’s so big, loud and dumb that it makes Face/Off look like a documentary. … read more
Film Review: Good On Paper
Good on Paper proves to be aptly titled because regardless of how it looked on the page, it doesn’t translate to the screen. … read more
Film Review: Gaîa
If you’re looking for an excuse to jump and scream a lot and spill popcorn, move along—Gaîa is not the horror movie you’re looking for. … read more
Film Review: Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to...
Rita Moreno: Just A Girl Who Decided To Go For It chronicles a 70-plus-year career filled with spectacular highs and near-tragic lows. … read more
Film Review: The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard
The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard is an obnoxious mess aimed at 12–14-year-old-boys watching it on a sleepover without their parents’ knowledge. … read more
Film Review: Fatherhood
In Fatherhood, Kevin Hart plays Matt and is faced with raising his daughter alone when his wife dies the day after giving birth. … read more
Film Review: Luca
While it may be playing at home, Luca’s a movie that will make you feel like you’ve gone somewhere special and had a grand experience. … read more
Film Review: 12 Mighty Orphans
12 Mighty Orphans, which is based on a true story, seems almost foolproof. But it fumbles an awful lot on its way to the goalpost. … read more