Tag: heartwarming

“Little Women” (2019) – Greta Gerwig’s Lovely Literary Masterpiece About Women

Writer/Director: Greta Gerwig Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh and Laura Dern ‘An Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes to the most … More

“Lady Bird” (2017) – Greta Gerwig’s Amazing Portrait of Adolescence

Writer/Director: Greta Gerwig Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf and Lucas Hedges ‘Captivating Drama’ There is no time in a person’s … More

“The Glass Castle” (2017) – Brie Larson’s Fantastic Dysfunctional Family Drama

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Co-writer: Andrew Lanham Starring: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson and Naomi Watts ‘Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes … More

“Mulan” (2020) – Disney’s Marvellous Mulan Live-Action Remake

Director: Niki Caro Writers: Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver Starring: Yifei Liu, Donnie Yen and Tzi Ma ‘Remarkable Remake’ When … More

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015) – J.J. Abrams’ Spectacular Star Wars Reboot

Writer/Director: J.J. Abrams Co-writers: Lawrence Kasdan and Michael Arndt Starring: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega and Harrison Ford ‘A Dream Come … More

“The Incredibles 2” (2018) – Pixar’s Incredible Animated Superhero Sequel

Writer/Director: Brad Bird Starring: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter and Samuel L. Jackson ‘An Incredible Sequel’ When it comes to … More

“Toy Story 4” (2019) – Pixar’s Spectacular Toy Story Sequel

Director: Josh Cooley Writers: Andrew Stanton and Stephany Folsom Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Keanu Reeves ‘Terrific Toys Sequel’ … More

“Life Itself” (2014) – Steve James’ Fantastic Documentary About a Film Critic

Director: Steve James Based on the best-selling novel by Roger Ebert Starring: Roger Ebert, Chaz Ebert and Gene Siskel ‘A … More

“The Amazing Spider-Man” (2012) – Marc Webb’s Superb Spider-Man Reboot

Director: Marc Webb Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and Sally Field ‘Spectacular Reboot’ “The Amazing Spider-Man” is directed by Marc … More

“Monsoon Wedding” (2001) – Mira Nair’s Incredible Indian Masterpiece About Weddings

Director: Mira Nair Writer: Sabrina Dhawan Starring: Naseeruddin Shah, Lillete Dubey and Vijay Raaz ‘An Indian Masterpiece’ It is always … More

“Oz: the Great and the Powerful” (2013) – Sam Raimi’s Great Wizard of Oz Prequel

Director: Sam Raimi Writers: Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire Starring: James Franco, Michelle Williams, and Mila Kunis ‘Powerful Prequel’ I … More

“Despicable Me 2” (2013) – Steve Carell’s Dazzling Despicable Me Sequel

Director: Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud Writers: Ken Daurio and Cinco Paul Starring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Benjamin Bratt ‘Spectacular … More

“News of the World” (2020) – Tom Hanks’ Wonderful Western Worthy of News

Writer/Director: Paul Greengrass Co-writer: Luke Davies (Based on Paulette Jiles’ book) Starring: Tom Hanks, Helena Zengel and Ray McKinnon ‘A … More

“Blue Jasmine” (2013) – Woody Allen’s Disappointing Mid-Life Crisis Drama

Writer/Director: Woody Allen Starring: Cate Blanchett, Alec Baldwin and Sally Hawkins ‘Disappointing Drama’ For a reasonable hour or so, Woody … More

“About Time” (2013) – Richard Curtis’ Remarkable Romantic Drama About Time Travel

Writer/Director: Richard Curtis Starring: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams and Bill Nighy ‘Remarkable Romantic Drama’ Romantic comedies are almost always predictable. … More

“Wreck it Ralph” (2012) – Rich Moore’s Awe-Inspiring Animated Achievement

Director: Rich Moore Writers: Phil Johnston and Jennifer Lee Starring: John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer ‘Astonishing Animation’ Animated … More

“The Fabelmans” (2022) – Steven Spielberg’s Spectacular Autobiographical Masterpiece

Writer/Director: Steven Spielberg Starring: Gabriel LaBelle, Michelle Williams, Paul Dano                     … More

“Schindler’s List” (1993) – Steven Spielberg’s Magnificent Masterpiece About the Holocaust

Director: Steven Spielberg Starring: Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes and Sir Ben Kingsley ‘A Magnificent Holocaust Masterpiece’ The Holocaust is a … More

“Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark” (1981) – Steven Spielberg’s Incredible Indiana Jones Blockbuster

Director: Steven Spielberg Writer: Lawrence Kasdan Starring: Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman ‘Timeless Classic’ “Indiana Jones and the Raiders … More

“The Colour Purple” (1985) – Steven Spielberg’s Awe-Inspiring Literary Adaptation

Director: Steven Spielberg Writer: Menno Meyjes (based off novel by Alice Walker) Starring: Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, and Oprah Winfrey … More

“The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” (2013) – Peter Jackson’s Spellbinding Hobbit Sequel

Writer/Director: Peter Jackson Co-writers: Fran Walsh, Phillipa Boyens and Guillermo Del Toro Starring: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, and Richard Armitage … More

“Frankenweenie” (2012) – Tim Burton’s Spectacular Stop-Motion Animated Achievement

Director: Tim Burton Starring: Charlie Tahan, Winona Ryder, Martin Landau ‘Spectacular Stop-Motion’ “Frankenweenie” is a black-and-white stop motion film directed … More

“The Avengers” (2012) – Joss Whedon’s Marvellous Comic-Book Blockbuster

Writer/Director: Joss Whedon Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans and Mark Ruffalo ‘Marvel-ous Entertainment’ “The Avengers” is written and directed … More

“Spider-Man: Homecoming” (2017) – Jon Watts’ Soaring Reboot of Spider-Man

Director: Jon Watts Writers: Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley Starring: Tom Holland, Robert Downey Jr. and Michael Keaton ‘A … More

“Ticket to Paradise” (2022) – George Clooney’s Captivating Romantic Comedy

Writer/Director: Ol Parker Starring Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Kaitlyn Dever  ‘Captivating Rom-Com’ Divorce is a time-consuming process inciting Kramer Vs. … More

“Up in the Air” (2009) – George Clooney’s Uplifting Drama About Business Decisions

Writer/Director: Jason Reitman Co-writer: Sheldon Turner (based off novel by Walter Kirn) Starring: George Clooney, Vera Farmiga, and Anna Kendrick … More

“Million Dollar Baby” (2004) – Clint Eastwood’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Boxing

Director: Clint Eastwood Starring: Clint Eastwood, Morgan Freeman, Hilary Swank ‘Deeply Moving Drama’ Few filmmakers in Hollywood have built a … More

“The Hours” (2002) – Stephen Daldry’s Deeply Moving Drama About Depression

Director: Stephen Daldry Starring: Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore and Meryl Streep ‘Deeply Moving Drama’ “The Hours” is directed by Stephen … More

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (1997) – My Favourite Book of All-Time

Author: J.K. Rowling Publication Date: 1997 ‘A Spellbinding Success’ “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” is a children’s book written … More

“The Colour Purple” (1985) – Steven Spielberg’s Magnificent Literature Masterpiece

Director: Steven Spielberg Writer: Menno Meyjes (based off novel by Alice Walker) Starring: Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, and Oprah Winfrey … More

“Saving Private Ryan” (1998) – Steven Spielberg’s Spectacular War Masterpiece

Director: Steven Spielberg Starring: Tom Hanks, Matt Damon, Edward Burns ‘Wonderful War Epic’ Few filmmakers in the world are as … More

“Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” (1971) – A Captivating Classic of Pure Imagination

Director: Mel Stuart Writers: Roald Dahl and David Seltzer  (based off book by Roald Dahl) Starring Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum, … More

“Wonka” (2023) – Paul King’s Wonderful Willy Wonka Musical

Writer/Director: Paul King Starring: Timothee Chalamet, Sally Hawkins, Hugh Grant                     … More

“Spider-Man: Homecoming” (2017) – Jon Watts’ Soaring Reboot of Spider-Man

Director: Jon Watts Writers: Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley Starring: Tom Holland, Robert Downey Jr. and Michael Keaton ‘A … More

“Barfi” (2012) – A Brilliant Bollywood Musical About Disabilities

Writer/Director: Anurag Basu Co-writer: Sanjeev Dutta Starring: Ranbir Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Ileana, and Saurabh Shukla ‘Bollywood at its Best’ Indian … More

“Logan” (2016) – Hugh Jackman’s Fantastic Farewell to The Wolverine

Director: James Mangold Starring: Hugh Jackman, Dafne Keen and Patrick Stewart ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ When it comes to superheroes that … More

“The Dig” (2021) – A Powerful Period Piece About Archaeology

Director: Simon Stone Writer: Moira Buffini (Based on John Preston’s book) Starring: Carey Mulligan, Ralph Fiennes and Lily James ‘An … More

“CODA” (2021) – A Dazzling Drama Celebrating the Deaf Community

Writer/Director: Sian Heder Starring: Emilia Jones, Troy Kotsur and Marlee Matlin  ‘Powerful Disability Drama’ Silenced stories of celebrities without hearing … More

“Rebecca” (1940) – Alfred Hitchcock’s Haunting Literary Masterpiece

Director: Alfred Hitchcock Starring: Laurence Olivier, Joan Fontaine, George Sanders ‘A Remarkable Classic’ “Rebecca” is directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Its … More

“News of the World” (2020) – Tom Hanks’ Wonderful Western

Writer/Director: Paul Greengrass Co-writer: Luke Davies (Based on Paulette Jiles’ book) Starring: Tom Hanks, Helena Zengel and Ray McKinnon ‘A … More

“The Jungle Book” (2016) – Disney’s Joyous Jungle Book Live-Action Remake

Director: Jon Favreau Writer: Justin Marks (based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling) Starring: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray and Sir … More

“George Harrison: Living in the Material World” (2011) – A Dazzling Documentary About George Harrison

Director: Martin Scorsese Starring: George Harrison, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr ‘Dazzling Documentary’ “George Harrison: Living in the Material World” is … More

“Jojo Rabbit” (2019) – A Spectacular Satire About the Holocaust

Writer/Director: Taika Waititi Based on the book by Christine Leunens Starring: Roman Griffin Davis, Scarlett Johansson and Sam Rockwell ‘Hilarious … More

“Blinded by the Light” (2019) – A Spectacular Tribute To Bruce Springsteen

Writer/Director: Gurinder Chada Co-writers: Paul Mayeda Berges and Sarfraz Manzoor Starring: Viveik Kalra, Kulvinder Ghir and Hayley Atwell ‘A Marvelous … More

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015) – A Spectacular Star Wars Blockbuster

Writer/Director: J.J. Abrams Co-writers: Lawrence Kasdan and Michael Arndt Starring: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega and Harrison Ford ‘A Dream Come … More

“Southside With You” (2016) – A Remarkable Romantic Drama About Obama

Writer/Director: Richard Tanne Starring: Tika Sumpter and Parker Sawyers ‘Remarkable Romantic Drama’ Let me start off by saying that I’m … More

“The Nice Guys” (2016) – A Captivating Detective Crime Comedy

Writer/Director: Shane Black Starring: Ryan Gosling, Russell Crowe, Angourie Rice ‘Captivating Comedy’ Few actors in Hollywood have built a career … More

“Mulan” (2020) – Disney’s Marvellous Mulan Live-Action Remake

Director: Niki Caro Writers: Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver Starring: Yifei Liu, Donnie Yen and Tzi Ma ‘Remarkable Live-Action Remake’ … More

“Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” (2015) – A Captivating Teen Coming-of-Age Drama

Director: Alfonso Gomez-Rejon Writer: Jesse Andrews (based on novel) Starring: Thomas Mann, RJ Cyler and Olivia Cooke ‘A Breath of … More

“The Incredibles 2” (2015) – Pixar’s Incredible Animated Superhero Sequel

Writer/Director: Brad Bird Starring: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter and Samuel L. Jackson ‘An Incredible Sequel’ When it comes to … More

“Toy Story 4” (2019) – Pixar’s Terrific Toy Story Sequel

Director: Josh Cooley Writers: Andrew Stanton and Stephany Folsom Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Keanu Reeves ‘Terrific Toys Sequel’ … More

“22 Jump Street” (2014) – A Joyous Jump Street Sequel

Directors: Phil Lord and Christopher Miller Writers: Michael Bacall, Oren Uziel and Rodney Rothman Starring: Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum and … More

“The Hundred-Foot Journey” (2014) – A Delicious Indian Cooking Drama

Director: Lasse Hallstrom Written by Steven Knight (based off novel by Richard C. Morais) Starring Helen Mirren, Om Puri and … More

“The Place Beyond the Pines” (2013) – A Magnificent Masterpiece About Fatherhood

Writer/Director: Derek Cianfrance Co-writers: Ben Coccio and Darius Marder Starring: Ryan Gosling, Eva Mendes and Bradley Cooper ‘A Multi-Generational Masterpiece’ … More

“Pacific Rim” (2013) – Guillermo Del Toro’s Breathtaking Blockbuster

Writer/Director: Guillermo del Toro Co-writer: Travis Beacham  Starring: Idris Elba, Charlie Hunnam and Rinko Kikuchi ‘Exhilarating Entertainment’ Over the last … More

“Monster’s University” (2013) – Pixar’s Most Underrated Animated Movie

Director: Dan Scanlon Writers: Daniel Gerson, Robert L. Baird and Dan Scanlon Starring: Billy Crystal, John Goodman and Helen Mirren … More

“Despicable Me 2” (2013) – A Dazzling Despicable Me Sequel

Director: Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud Writers: Ken Daurio and Cinco Paul Starring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Benjamin Bratt ‘Spectacular … More

“About Time” (2013) – A Remarkable Romantic Drama About Time

Writer/Director: Richard Curtis Starring: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams and Bill Nighy ‘Remarkable Romantic Drama’ Romantic comedies are almost always predictable. … More

“The Hunger Games” (2012) – An Amazing YA Adaptation

Director: Gary Ross Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth ‘Astonishing Adaptation’ “The Hunger Games” is directed by Gary Ross. … More

“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” (2011) – A Beautiful British Period Piece

Director: John Madden Writer: Ol Parker Starring: Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, and Maggie Smith ‘A Charming Comedy’ Sometimes all a … More

“The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” (1966) – My Favourite Western of All-Time

Director: Sergio Leone Starring: Clint Eastwood, Elli Wallach and Lee Van Cleef ‘A Wonderful Western’ “It’s not a joke, it’s … More

“Ordinary People” (1980) – Robert Redford’s Extraordinary Family Drama

Director: Robert Redford Starring: Donald Sutherland, Mary Tyler Moore, Timothy Hutton ‘Extraordinary Family Drama’ “Ordinary People” is directed by Robert … More

“The Disciple” (2020) – A Mesmerizing Indian Classical Music Drama

Writer/Director: Chaitanya Tamhane Starring: Aditya Modak, Arun Dravid and Sumitra Bhave ‘Mesmerizing Music Drama’ Over the past decade or so, … More

Why “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” is My Favourite Book of All-Time

Author: J.K. Rowling Publication Date: 1997 “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” is a children’s book written by J.K. Rowling. … More

“Wonka” (2023) – A Wonderful Willy Wonka Musical

Writer/Director: Paul King Starring: Timothee Chalamet, Sally Hawkins, Hugh Grant                     … More

“Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” (1984) – An Incredible Indiana Jones Sequel

Director: Steven Spielberg Writers: Willard Huck and Gloria Katz Starring: Harrison Ford, Jonathan Ke Quan, Amrish Puri ‘Spectacular Sequel’ “Indiana … More

“Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark” (1981) – An Incredible Introduction to Indiana Jones

Director: Steven Spielberg Writer: Lawrence Kasdan Starring: Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman ‘Timeless Classic’ “Indiana Jones and the Raiders … More

“Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” (2023) – A Fantastic Farewell to Indiana Jones

Writer/Director: James Mangold Starring: Harrison Ford, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Mads Mikkelsen                      … More

“The Holdovers” (2023) – A Touching Tribute to Inspiring Teachers

Director: Alexander Payne Starring: Paul Giamatti, Dominic Sessa, Da’ Vine Joy Randolph                 … More

“The Color Purple” (1985) – Steven Spielberg’s Colorful Literary Adaptation

Director: Steven Spielberg Writers: Menno Meyjes (based off novel by Alice Walker) Starring: Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, and Oprah Winfrey … More

“A Man Called Otto” (2022) – Tom Hanks At His Best

Director: Marc Foster Starring: Tom Hanks, Mariana Trevino, Truman Hanks                      … More

“King Richard” (2021) – A Spectacular Biopic About Serena Williams

Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green Starring Will Smith, Aunjanue Ellis and Sanniya Sidney ‘Serene-a Biopic’ Gen-Cassius patriarchs whose philosophies catapulted … More

“In the Heights” (2021) – A Magnificent Stage Musical Adaptation

Director: John M. Chu Writer: Quiara Alegria Hudes Starring: Anthony Ramos, Corey Hawkins and Melissa Barrera ‘A Marvelous Musical’  It … More

“Minari” (2020) – A Magnificent Masterpiece About Korean Immigration

Writer/Director: Lee Isaac Chung Starring: Steven Yeun, Alan Kim and Youn Yuh-jung ‘A Mesmerizing Masterpiece’ Foreign films are rarely rewarded … More

“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (2020) – A Mesmerizing Stage Musical Adaptation

Director: George C. Wolfe Writer: Ruben Santiago-Hudson (based on August Wilson’s play) Starring: Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman and Colman Domingo … More

“Mank” (2020) – A Captivating Tribute to Citizen Kane

Director: David Fincher Writer: Jack Fincher  Starring: Gary Oldman, Amanda Seyfried and Lily Collins ‘Filmmaking at its Finest’ When discussing … More

“Enola Holmes” (2020) – An Extraordinary Period Piece

Director: Harry Bradbeer  Writer: Jack Thorne (based on book by Nancy Springer) Starring: Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill and Sam … More

“Yesterday” (2019) – A Breathtaking Tribute to The Beatles

Director: Danny Boyle Writer: Richard Curtis Starring: Himesh Patel, Lily James and Ed Sheeran ‘Breathtaking Beatles Musical’ Imagine living in … More

“Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (2019) – Quentin Tarantino’s Powerful Period Piece

Writer/Director: Quentin Tarantino Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie ‘Powerful Period Piece’ Few filmmakers in the world have … More

“Marriage Story” (2019) – A Meaningful Masterpiece About Broken Marriages

Writer/Director: Noah Baumbach Starring: Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson and Laura Dern ‘Mesmerizing Masterpiece’ It is always hard to move on … More

“Blinded by the Light” (2019) – A Breathtaking Tribute to Bruce Springsteen

Writer/Director: Gurinder Chada Co-writers: Paul Mayeda Berges and Sarfraz Manzoor Starring: Viveik Kalra, Kulvinder Ghir and Hayley Atwell ‘A Marvelous … More

“Mary Poppins Returns” (2018) – Magnificent Mary Poppins Musical Remake

Director: Rob Marshall Writer: David Magee Starring: Emily Blunt, Lin Manuel-Miranda and Ben Whishaw ‘A Marvelous Musical’ Before I begin … More

“Green Book” (2018) – A Powerful Period Piece About Segregation

Writer/Director: Peter Farrelly Co-writers: Nick Vallelonga and Brian Hayes Currie Starring: Viggo Mortensen, Mahershala Ali and Linda Cardellini ‘Powerful Period … More

“Eighth Grade” (2018) – A Phenomenal Portrait of Adolescence

Writer/Director: Bo Burnham Starring: Elsie Fisher, Josh Hamilton and Emily Robinson ‘Astonishing Drama’ Perhaps, no time in a person’s life … More

“Wonder Woman” (2017) – Wonderful Women Comic-Book Blockbuster

Director: Patty Jenkins Writers: Allan Heinberg, Zach Snyder and Jason Fuchs Starring: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine and Connie Nielson ‘Wonderful … More

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015) – A Forceful Tribute to Star Wars

Writer/Director: J.J. Abrams Co-writers: Lawrence Kasdan and Michael Arndt Starring: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega and Harrison Ford ‘A Dream Come … More

“Star Wars: The Last Jedi” (2017) – Sensational Star Wars Sequel

Writer/Director: Rian Johnson Starring: Daisy Ridley, Mark Hamill and Adam Driver ‘A Spectacular Sequel’ Before I begin this review, I … More

“The Glass Castle” (2017) – A Marvelous Memoir Adaptation

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Co-writer: Andrew Lanham Starring: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson and Naomi Watts ‘Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes … More

“The Nice Guys” (2016) – Captivating Detective Crime Comedy

Writer/Director: Shane Black Starring: Ryan Gosling, Russell Crowe, Angourie Rice ‘Captivating Comedy’ Few actors in Hollywood have built a career … More

“La La Land” (2016) – A Magnificent Musical Masterpiece

Writer/Director: Damien Chazelle Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone and J.K. Simmons ‘A Musical Masterpiece’ Before I begin this review, I … More

“Kubo and the Two Strings” (2016) – Astonishing Asian Animation

Directed by Travis Knight Written by Marc Haimes and Chris Butler Starring Art Parkinson, Charlize Theron and Matthew McConaughey ‘Awe-Inspiring … More

“Jurassic World” (2015) – Riveting Jurassic Park Reboot

Writer/Director: Colin Trevorrow Co-writers: Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, and Derek Connolly Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Irrfan Khan … More

“Inside Out” (2015) – Pixar’s Incredibly Emotional Classic

Writer/Director: Pete Docter and Ronaldo Del Carmen Co-writers: Meg LeFauve and Josh Cooley Starring: Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, and Lewis … More

“Ant-Man and the Wasp” (2018) – Astonishing Ant-Man Sequel

Director: Peyton Reed Writers: Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers Starring: Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas and Evangeline Lilly ‘Fun but Flawed … More

“Ant-Man” (2015) – Amazing Ant-Man Blockbuster

Director: Peyton Reed Writers: Edgar Wright, Joe Cornish, Adam McKay and Paul Rudd Starring: Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, and Evangeline … More

“The Hundred-Foot Journey” (2014) – Captivating Indian Cooking Drama

Director: Lasse Hallstrom Written by Steven Knight (based off novel by Richard C. Morais) Starring Helen Mirren, Om Puri and … More

“How to Train Your Dragon 2” (2014) – Soaring Animated Dragon Sequel

Writer/Director: Dean DeBlois Co-writer: Cressida Cowell Starring: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett and Djimon Hounsou ‘A Soaring Sequel’ If there’s any … More

“The Way Way Back” (2013) – Captivating Coming-of-Age Drama

Writers/Directors: Nat Faxon and Jim Rash Starring: Liam James, Steve Carell, Sam Rockwell and Maya Rudolph ‘Captivating Coming-of-Age Drama’ We’re … More

“The World’s End” (2013) – Captivating Doomsday Comedy

Writer/Director: Edgar Wright Co-writer: Simon Pegg Starring: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost and Martin Freeman ‘Captivating Comedy’ Halfway through Edgar Wright’s … More

“The Butler” (2013) – Breathtaking Historical Butler Biopic

Director: Lee Daniels Writer: Danny Strong (based on article by Wil Haygood) Starring: Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey and Alex Pettyfer … More

“Barfi” (2012) – Bollywood at its Best

Writer/Director: Anurag Basu Co-writer: Sanjeev Dutta Starring: Ranbir Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, and Saurabh Shukla ‘Marvelous Musical’ Indian movies are not … More

“The Amazing Spider-Man” (2012) – Amazing Web-Slinger Reboot

Director: Marc Webb Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and Sally Field ‘Spectacular Reboot’ “The Amazing Spider-Man” is directed by Marc … More

“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” (2002) – Spectacular Harry Potter Sequel

Director: Chris Columbus Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint ‘Spectacular Sequel’ “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” is … More

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (2001) – Spellbinding Franchise Beginning

Director: Chris Columbus Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson ‘Magical Beginning’ “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” is … More

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (1997) – My Favorite Book of All-Time

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” is a children’s book written by J.K. Rowling. It’s the first novel in the … More

“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” (2011) – Beautiful British Period Piece

Directed by John Madden Written by Ol Parker Starring Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, and Maggie Smith ‘A Charming Comedy’ Sometimes … More

“Arthur Christmas” (2011) – Amazing Christmas Animation

Directors: Sarah Smith and Barry Cook Starring: James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Billy Nighy ‘Astonishing Animation’ “Arthur Christmas” is directed by … More

“A Quiet Place: Day One” (2024) – Quietly Powerful Horror Prequel

Writer/Director: Michael Sarnoski Starring: Lupita Nyong’o, Joseph Quinn and Alex Wolff                   … More

Why “The Shawshank Redemption” is the Greatest Movie Ever Made

Writer/Director: Frank Darabont Starring: Morgan Freeman, Tim Robbins, Bob Gunton When it comes to the greatest movies ever made about … More

“Wonka” (2023) – Wonderful Willy Wonka Musical

Writer/Director: Paul King Starring: Timothee Chalamet, Sally Hawkins, Hugh Grant                     … More

“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” (2023) – Spectacular Spider-Man Animation

Director: Joaquim Dos Santos Starring: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Jake Johnson                   … More

“The Holdovers” (2023) – Touching Tribute to Teachers

Director: Alexander Payne Starring: Paul Giamatti, Dominic Sessa, Da’ Vine Joy Randolph                 … More

“The Color Purple” (1985) – Spielberg’s Colorful Adaptation

Directed by Steven Spielberg Written by Menno Meyjes (based off novel by Alice Walker) Starring Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, and … More

“North by Northwest” (1959) – Captivating Hitchcock Classic

Director: Alfred Hitchcock Writer: Ernest Lehman Starring: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint and Jessie Royce Landis ‘A Timeless Hitchcock Classic’ … More

“Top Gun: Maverick” (2022) – Soaring Top Gun Sequel

Director: Joseph Kosinski Writers: Christopher McQuarrie Starring: Tom Cruise, Miles Teller and Val Kilmer             … More

“Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” (1984) – Spectacular Indiana Jones Sequel

Director: Steven Spielberg Writers: Willard Huck and Gloria Katz Starring: Harrison Ford, Jonathan Ke Quan, Amrish Puri ‘Spectacular Sequel’ “Indiana … More

“Saving Private Ryan” (1998) – The Greatest War Movie Ever Made

Director: Steven Spielberg Starring: Tom Hanks, Matt Damon, Edward Burns ‘Wonderful War Epic’ Few filmmakers in the world are as … More

“King Richard” (2021) – Spectacular Serena Williams Biopic

Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green Starring Will Smith, Aunjanue Ellis and Sanniya Sidney ‘Serene-a Biopic’ Gen-Cassius patriarchs whose philosophies catapulted … More

“One Night in Miami” (2020) – Spectacular Stage Adaptation

Director: Regina King Writer: Kemp Powers (based on stage play) Starring: Kingsley Ben-Adir, Leslie Odom Jr. and Eli Goree ‘Spectacular … More

“Nomadland” (2020) – Mesmerizing Nomad Docudrama

Writer/Director: Chloé Zhao Based on Jessica Bruder’s book Starring: Frances McDormand, David Strathaim and Linda May ‘A Mesmerizing Docudrama’ Imagine … More

“News of the World” (2020) – Wonderful Tom Hanks Western

Writer/Director: Paul Greengrass Co-writer: Luke Davies (Based on Paulette Jiles’ book) Starring: Tom Hanks, Helena Zengel and Ray McKinnon ‘A … More

“Minari” (2020) – Mesmerizing Immigration Masterpiece

Writer/Director: Lee Isaac Chung Starring: Steven Yeun, Alan Kim and Youn Yuh-jung ‘A Mesmerizing Masterpiece’ Foreign films are rarely rewarded … More

“Blinded by the Light” (2019) – Breathtaking Bruce Springsteen Musical

Writer/Director: Gurinder Chada Co-writers: Paul Mayeda Berges and Sarfraz Manzoor Starring: Viveik Kalra, Kulvinder Ghir and Hayley Atwell ‘A Marvelous … More

“The Glass Castle” (2017) – Astonishing Literary Adaptation

Writer/Director: Destin Daniel Cretton Co-writer: Andrew Lanham Starring: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson and Naomi Watts ‘Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes … More

“Southside With You” (2016) – Remarkable Obama Romantic Drama

Writer/Director: Richard Tanne Starring: Tika Sumpter and Parker Sawyers ‘Remarkable Romantic Drama’ Let me start off by saying that I’m … More

“The Light Between Oceans” (2016) – Lovely Literature Adaptation

Writer/Director: Derek Cianfrance Based on the best-selling novel by M.L. Stedman Starring: Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Rachel Weisz ‘Powerful … More

“Kubo and the Two Strings” (2016) – Awe-Inspiring Asian Animation

Directed by Travis Knight Written by Marc Haimes and Chris Butler Starring Art Parkinson, Charlize Theron and Matthew McConaughey ‘Awe-Inspiring … More

“Inside Out” (2015) – Pixar’s Emotional Animated Classic

Writer/Director: Pete Docter and Ronaldo Del Carmen Co-writers: Meg LeFauve and Josh Cooley Starring: Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, and Lewis … More

“The Hundred-Foot Journey” (2014) – Delicious Indian Cooking Drama

Director: Lasse Hallstrom Written by Steven Knight (based off novel by Richard C. Morais) Starring Helen Mirren, Om Puri and … More

“How to Train Your Dragon 2” (2014) – Spectacular Dragon Sequel

Writer/Director: Dean DeBlois Co-writer: Cressida Cowell Starring: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett and Djimon Hounsou ‘A Soaring Sequel’ If there’s any … More

“The Way Way Back” (2013) – Captivating Coming-of-Age Drama

Writers/Directors: Nat Faxon and Jim Rash Starring: Liam James, Steve Carell, Sam Rockwell and Maya Rudolph ‘Captivating Drama’ We’re all … More

“Pacific Rim” (2013) – Marvelous Monsters Blockbuster

Writer/Director: Guillermo del Toro Co-writer: Travis Beacham  Starring: Idris Elba, Charlie Hunnam and Rinko Kikuchi ‘Exhilarating Entertainment’ Over the last … More

“Oz: The Great and the Powerful” (2013) – Wonderful Wizard of Oz Prequel

Director: Sam Raimi Writers: Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire Starring: James Franco, Michelle Williams, and Mila Kunis ‘Powerful Prequel’ I … More

“Monsters University” (2013) – Powerful Pixar Prequel

Director: Dan Scanlon Writers: Daniel Gerson, Robert L. Baird and Dan Scanlon Starring: Billy Crystal, John Goodman and Helen Mirren … More

“Despicable Me 2” (2013) – Dazzling Animated Sequel

Director: Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud Writers: Ken Daurio and Cinco Paul Starring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Benjamin Bratt ‘Spectacular … More

“Wreck it Ralph” (2012) – Astonishing Video-Game Animation

Director: Rich Moore Writer: Phil Johnston and Jennifer Lee Starring: John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer ‘Astonishing Animation’ Animated … More

“Lincoln” (2012) – Powerful President Biopic

Director: Steven Spielberg Writer: Tony Kushner (based on novel by Doris Kearns Goodwin)               … More

“Wonka” (2023) – A Wonderful Musical

Writer/Director: Paul King Starring: Timothee Chalamet, Sally Hawkins, Hugh Grant                     … More

“Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” (1984) – Movie Review

Director: Steven Spielberg Writers: Willard Huck and Gloria Katz Starring: Harrison Ford, Jonathan Ke Quan, Amrish Puri ‘Spectacular Sequel’ “Indiana … More

“The Holdovers” (2023) – Movie Review

Director: Alexander Payne Starring: Paul Giamatti, Dominic Sessa, Da’ Vine Joy Randolph                 … More

“Top Gun: Maverick” (2022) – Movie Review

Director: Joseph Kosinski Writers: Christopher McQuarrie Starring: Tom Cruise, Miles Teller and Val Kilmer             … More

“Ticket to Paradise” (2022) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Ol Parker Starring Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Kaitlyn Dever  ‘Captivating Rom-Com’ Divorce is a time-consuming process inciting Kramer Vs. … More

“Aftersun” (2022) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Charlotte Wells Starring: Frankie Corio, Paul Mescal                         … More

“West Side Story” (2021) – Movie Review

Directed by Steven Spielberg Starring Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler and Rita Moreno                 … More

“In the Heights” (2021) – Movie Review

Director: John M. Chu Writer: Quiara Alegria Hudes Starring: Anthony Ramos, Corey Hawkins and Melissa Barrera ‘A Marvelous Musical’  It … More

“Yesterday” (2019) – Movie Review

Director: Danny Boyle Writer: Richard Curtis Starring: Himesh Patel, Lily James and Ed Sheeran ‘Breathtaking Beatles Musical’ Imagine living in … More

“The Last Black Man in San Francisco” (2019) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Joe Talbot Co-writer: Rob Richert Starring: Jimmie Fails, Jonathan Majors and Rob Morgan ‘Powerful Gentrification Drama’ Gentrification is a … More

“Little Women” (2019) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Greta Gerwig Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh and Laura Dern ‘An Astonishing Adaptation’ When it comes to the most … More

“Honey Boy” (2019) – Movie Review

Director: Alma Har’el Writer: Shia LaBeouf Starring: Noah Jupe, Shia LaBeouf and Lucas Hedges ‘A Powerful Memoir’ Few actors in … More

“The Farewell” (2019) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Lulu Wang Starring: Awkwafina, Tzi Ma and Diana Lin ‘Fantastic Family Drama’ It is always hard to come to … More

“Blinded by the Light” (2019) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Gurinder Chada Co-writers: Paul Mayeda Berges and Sarfraz Manzoor Starring: Viveik Kalra, Kulvinder Ghir and Hayley Atwell ‘A Marvelous … More

“Mary Poppins Returns” (2018) – Movie Review

Director: Rob Marshall Writer: David Magee Starring: Emily Blunt, Lin Manuel-Miranda and Ben Whishaw ‘A Marvelous Musical’ Before I begin … More

“Incredibles 2” (2018) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Brad Bird Starring: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter and Samuel L. Jackson ‘An Incredible Sequel’ When it comes to … More

“Maudie” (2017) – Movie Review

Director: Aisling Walsh Writer: Sherry White Starring: Sally Hawkins, Ethan Hawke and Kari Matchett ‘Deeply Moving Biopic’ Maud Lewis is … More

“The Big Sick” (2017) – Movie Review

Director: Michael Showalter Writers: Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon Starring: Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan and Holly Hunter ‘A Hilarious … More

“The Jungle Book” (2016) – Movie Review

Director: Jon Favreau Writer: Justin Marks (based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling) Starring: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray and Sir … More

“Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” (2015) – Movie Review

Director: Alfonso Gomez-Rejon Writer: Jesse Andrews (based on novel) Starring: Thomas Mann, RJ Cyler and Olivia Cooke ‘A Breath of … More

“Inside Out” (2015) – An Animation Masterpiece

Writer/Director: Pete Docter and Ronaldo Del Carmen Co-writers: Meg LeFauve and Josh Cooley Starring: Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, and Lewis … More

“How to Train Your Dragon 2” (2014) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Dean DeBlois Co-writer: Cressida Cowell Starring: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett and Djimon Hounsou ‘A Soaring Sequel’ If there’s any … More

“Boyhood” (2014) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Richard Linklater Starring: Ellar Coltrane, Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette ‘A Magnificent Masterpiece’ About halfway through Richard Linklater’s “Boyhood”, … More

“The Way Way Back” (2013) – Movie Review

Writers/Directors: Nat Faxon and Jim Rash Starring: Liam James, Steve Carell, Sam Rockwell and Maya Rudolph ‘Captivating Coming-of-Age Drama’ We’re … More

“The Spectacular Now” (2013) – Movie Review

Director: James Ponsoldt Writer: Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber Starring: Miles Teller, Shailene Woodley and Brie Larson ‘Spectacular Romantic … More

“About Time” (2013) – Movie Review

                 Writer/Director: Richard Curtis Starring: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams and Bill Nighy ‘Remarkable … More

“Lincoln” (2012) – Movie Review

Director: Steven Spielberg Writer: Tony Kushner (based off novel by Doris Kearns Goodwin)               … More

“Wonka” (2023) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Paul King Starring: Timothee Chalamet, Sally Hawkins, Hugh Grant                     … More

“Inside Out” (2015) – Movie Review

Writer/Director: Pete Docter and Ronaldo Del Carmen Co-writers: Meg LeFauve and Josh Cooley Starring: Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, and Lewis … More

“The Holdovers” (2023) – Movie Review

Director: Alexander Payne Starring: Paul Giamatti, Dominic Sessa, Da’ Vine Joy Randolph                 … More