The Public (PG-13) ★★★½

Check Out “The Public” at a Theater Near You, Offering Over Due Enlightenment

My younger sister, Martha, a former librarian told me a few years ago that it’s common for homeless people to come into… Read more about The Public (PG-13) ★★★½

Amazing Grace (G)★★★★

The Voice of an Angel Takes Us to Church

Be prepared to be lifted-up—quite possibly to the heavens—by merely viewing this euphoric musical performance by the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin. Never before seen footage… Read more about Amazing Grace (G)★★★★

Shazam! (PG-13) ★★★½

A Good-Natured Superhero with Loads of Heart

Shazman is the new ‘superhero kid on the block’ as Zachary Levi’s energetic, yet heartfelt performance nails his DC character for years to come! Finally, the DC Universe… Read more about Shazam! (PG-13) ★★★½

Dumbo (PG) ★½

Non-kid Centered, Lacks Heart

Though the 1941 original “Dumbo” movie is very short, 64 minutes, and full of racist innuendos, that darling flying, big-eared baby elephant is hard to resist—so it makes perfect sense that… Read more about Dumbo (PG) ★½

Captain Marvel (PG-13) ★★★

Brie Larson’s Captain Marvel Serves as a Role Model for Female Empowerment

“Captain Marvel” stars Brie Larson, Academy Award winner (“Room” 2015), as Carol Danvers, the first female superhero from Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films—yes;… Read more about Captain Marvel (PG-13) ★★★

Apollo 11 ★★★★

Brilliantly Realized, Stunningly Gorgeous “Apollo 11” Soars

“Apollo 11” is a visual delicacy to be savored long after the extensive credits roll—unlike most documentaries where talking head interviews and newspaper clippings are the main source—director/editor… Read more about Apollo 11 ★★★★

Alita: Battle Angel (PG-13) ★½

Ultra-Violent Movie, Lacks Heart and Target Audience 

No doubt, we have to talk about those creepy big eyes—from start to finish they are disconcerting—which is a shame, as Alita, the spunky female lead character doesn’t… Read more about Alita: Battle Angel (PG-13) ★½

What Men Want (R) ★★★ 

Taraji P. Henson Is Magnetic!

Fittingly, this modern-day tale of  ‘Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus’ mentality shines a spotlight on the male-dominated workplace and women’s struggles in general to even the playing… Read more about What Men Want (R) ★★★ 

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (Radio Podcast)

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse ★★★★

Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, are the creative minds behind “The Lego Movie.” Boasting a brand-new visual style that’s the first of its kind. Brooklyn teen Miles Morales, is voiced by… Read more about Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (Radio Podcast)

Alfonso Cuarón “ROMA” Interview

Director and screenplay writer Alfonso Cuarón tells a very personal story of growing up in the 70s in Colonia Roma, Mexico. Roma a story of home, love, hope, courage, and change is female-focused, providing emotional, soul-searching portraits.… Read more about Alfonso Cuarón “ROMA” Interview

Our Staff’s Top Films of 2018

Sarah Knight Adamson’s Favorite and Top 28 Award Worthy Films of 2018

A Star is Born
Black Panther
Won’t You Be My Neighbor?
BlacKkKlansman
Can You Ever Forgive Me?
The Favourite
Green Book
If Beale… Read more about Our Staff’s Top Films of 2018

Mary Poppins Returns (PG) ★★★½

Hollywood 360 Radio Podcast aired December 22, 2018

Rob Marshall directs “Mary Poppins Returns” starring Emily Blunt in the sequel to the 1964 movie “Mary Poppins” that starred Julie Andrews.

It’s been over 30 years… Read more about Mary Poppins Returns (PG) ★★★½

Julian Day Interview, Costume Designer “Bohemian Rhapsody”

“Bohemian Rhapsody” Costume Designer Julian Day Replicates Freddy Mercury’s Iconic Style

Julian Day’s designs appear in Ron Howard’s “Rush” (2013), Oliver Hirschbiegel’s “Diana” (2013), (Princess Diana, biographical drama), and the soon to be released Elton… Read more about Julian Day Interview, Costume Designer “Bohemian Rhapsody”

The Grinch (PG)★★★½

Hollywood 360 Radio Podcast aired December 1, 2018

“The Grinch” is an animated cartoon for kids and adults by Universal Pictures. The film is based on the Dr. Seuss book, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”… Read more about The Grinch (PG)★★★½

Instant Family (PG-13) ★★★½

Heartwarming Tale of Finding a Family

If you’ve ever wondered how the foster care system works in America, the excellent film “Instant Family” provides an up close and personal snapshot from Sean Anders the co-writer… Read more about Instant Family (PG-13) ★★★½

Sean Anders Interview, “Instant Family”

Director and co-writer Sean Anders new film “Instant Family” is based partially on him and his wife’s real-life experiences with foster care prior to the adoption of their three children who are biological siblings. The… Read more about Sean Anders Interview, “Instant Family”

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (PG) ★★½

Sadly, the Four Realms Lack Heart

The Christmas ballet ‘The Nutcracker’ is a popular worldwide event that’s become a tradition for families. For myself, my daughter performed in a local dance recital as a piece… Read more about The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (PG) ★★½

Can You Ever Forgive Me? (R) ★★★★

Melissa McCarthy’s Career Best Performance

Based on the true story of New York’s best-selling author Lee Israel, Melissa McCarthy tackles a dramatic role giving one of the best performances of her career. Known for her… Read more about Can You Ever Forgive Me? (R) ★★★★

Bohemian Rhapsody (PG-13) ★★★

Rami Malek’s Performance is Epic

Any attempt to recreate the pure magic of the British rock and roll 70s band Queen—all depends upon casting the lead role of the eccentric, ultra-talented Freddie Mercury—in this case,… Read more about Bohemian Rhapsody (PG-13) ★★★

The Wife (R) ★★★½

Glen Close Gives the Performance of a Lifetime

The dramatic film, “The Wife,” conjures’ up a range of emotions: sympathy, disgust, shock, and ultimately validation. Beginning with a late night call from Sweden, an elderly… Read more about The Wife (R) ★★★½

The Chicago 54th International Film Festival

Happy as Lazzaro and Ash Is Purest White Top Winners

The 54th Chicago International Film Festival hosted its Awards Ceremony at AMC River East 21, 322 E. Illinois St., on October 19, 2018. Jury members awarded prizes in these… Read more about The Chicago 54th International Film Festival

Rachel Brosnahan Interview by Alexi Rabin

A marvelous evening it was, spent with Emmy, Golden Globe, and Critic’s Choice Award winner, Rachel Brosnahan, at The Highland Park Community House in Highland Park, IL.

“A Marvelous Evening with Mrs. Maisel,” a fundraiser… Read more about Rachel Brosnahan Interview by Alexi Rabin