Movie Review: “Mass”
My review of a new movie in which the parents of a school shooting victim sit down face-to-face with the parents of the boy who killed their son (and several others). Though fictional, its emotions are raw, and the performances spectacular.
Movie Review: “Becoming Cousteau”
My review of a new documentary about the life of Jacques Cousteau, who gave many of us our first glance at the undersea world and the animals who live in it.
Mental Misfires
Like anyone who’s had to perform under pressure, I can relate to what Matt Amodio says (in a piece for Newsweek) contributed to his losing on “Jeopardy!” after 38 consecutive victories. Here’s an excerpt, with my comments appended.
Netflix Nonsense
No, this is not about the Dave Chappelle controversy, about which I have nothing to add that hasn’t already been said elsewhere. It’s about the company’s misguided policy that kept me out of the press screening of a movie last night.
Four Random Thoughts
Quickies about a thrilling novel I just finished, another ridiculous argument against vaccines, the value of ex-refs on NFL broadcasts, and something dry about rice and iPhones.
Reel Spoilers: “No Time To Die”
The Reel Spoilers guys asked me to sit in as they reviewed the new Bond movie. As usual, there were plenty of tangents and snark involved, and — considering how it ends — I suggested that the next one in the series should be called “James Trek: The Search For Bond.” Here’s how you can listen.
Movie Review: “The Rescue”
Here’s my review of a new movie about the remarkable 2018 effort to save a soccer team trapped inside caves in Thailand when monsoons rolled in and flooded the chambers. It will be on my year-end Best Documentaries Of 2021 list.
Movie Review: “Hard Luck Love Song”
My review of a movie about a down-on-his-luck pool hustler who reconnects with a woman from his past. Spoiler: this one will not be on my Best Of 2021 list.
Goodbye, Gruden
These are the thoughts that went through my head last night upon hearing ESPN’s reporting on the firing of Las Vegas Raiders head coach Jon Gruden for a series of racist, homophobic, and misogynistic emails.
The Amodio Rodeo Ends
Here’s my explanation of how Matt Amodio’s “Jeopardy!” win streak came to an end after 38 games, why he has nothing to hang his head about, and how his example will hopefully inspire other players going forward.
My Triple Show Week
Since I know I’ve done what’s right to protect myself and others against COVID, I refuse to give up the ability to continue enjoying my life whenever and wherever I like. That’s why last week, I went to three different venues to take in live performances. Here’s the story.
Movie Review: “No Time To Die”
My review of the new James Bond movie — the last one starring Daniel Craig — with Rami Malek as the villain and a scene-stealing turn by Christoph Waltz. Is it worth your time and money? Read on.