Precious (R) ★★★★
Portrait of a Teen Stricken with Ghastly Parents
Precious is an emotionally-raw film that takes you inside the ghetto of Harlem in 1987 and doesn’t let you out until long after the credits are rolling. … Read more
Author: Sarah Knight Adamson
The Blind Side (PG-13) ★★★★
An Incredible Story Based On Love
“The Blind Side,” boasts a strong script centering on the heartwarming inspirational true story of a homeless black teen (Michael Oher). He’s adopted by a wealthy white family who … Read more
Spike Jonze and Catherine Keener Interview
I interviewed Spike Jonze writer and director of “Where The Wild Things Are” in Chicago at the Trump Hotel. Catherine Keener who plays Max’s mom in the film was also present.
Backstage Notes:
Spike is … Read more
Michael Stuhlbarg Interview “The Serious Man” New Cohen Brothers Film
My interview with Michael Stuhlbarg was the first of the day and as luck may have it while waiting in the chic lobby of the Trump Tower Hotel in Chicago I spotted Michael out of … Read more
Paper Heart (PG-13) ★★★★
Paper Heart’s main theme is love or the notion of love. Charlyne Yi, (Knocked Up 2008) is a talented actress, writer, comedian and artist. At the beginning of this documentary, she proclaims that she doesn’t … Read more
Paranormal Activity (R) ★★★☆
Yes, This One Will Scare You!
“Paranormal Activity” is just the kind of scary film that I can sit through in a dark movie theater and appreciate. It’s not a slasher film nor one of … Read more
A Serious Man (R) ★★★★
The Coen Brothers Get Seriously Personal
Be prepared for a multi-layered film that reaches out and dares you to examine your own upbringing and core value beliefs. Also be prepared for a seriously funny film! … Read more
Astro Boy (PG) ★☆
Great Visuals, Storyline Too Depressing for Kids
The film is an animated science fiction story based on the Japanese comic book character ‘Astro Boy.’ The look is futuristic with elements of a ‘Jetsons World’— space … Read more
Zombieland (R) ★★★
Zombies Invade Chicago During a Red Carpet Event
I’m not a big fan of horror films so the fact that this film is basically a comedy loosely based on horror is ok with me. I … Read more
On The Red Carpet with Harold Ramis – “Year One” Premiere
Sarah’s Backstage Pass attended a Red Carpet event for the premiere of the film Year One and the honoring of Harold Ramis, the recipient of the Just For Laughs Lifetime Achievement Award. The award is … Read more
Rumer Willis Sorority Row Interview
The interview took place in an elaborate suite at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Chicago in September of 2009. Rumer was on a press junket for her film “Sorority Row.” She’s the daughter of Demi … Read more
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Julie & Julia (PG-13) ★★★★
Culinary Cinematic Delight
If this film doesn’t coerce you to drag out those old cookbooks and begin whipping up some savory dishes for you and your significant other, than I’m not sure what will! The … Read more
Ponyo (G) ★★★★
Magical Story that will Entertain and Teach Your Children
Parents and Grandparents of pre-schoolers and grade school kids, run–don’t walk to your local cinema as “Ponyo” is the film for you! Artistically and visually this … Read more
The September Issue (PG-13) ★★★
This film is a documentary directed by R.J. Cutler which conveys the painstaking process of how Vogue magazine compiles its ‘Fall fashion Bible,’ the September issue. In 2007, the September issue of Vogue weighed nearly … Read more
500 Days of Summer (PG) ★★★
Relationships Aren’t Always Easy
Summer (Zooey Deschanel) stars in this heart-wrenching story about what it feels like to be in love and how it essentially feels to be ‘dumped.’ The title, “500 days … Read more
Charlyne Yi and Jake Johnson Interview
Sarah’s Backstage Pass was granted an interview with writer, actress and artist Charlyne Yi and actor Jake Johnson both starring in the film “Paper Heart.” We met at the James Hotel in Chicago in July … Read more
Yara Shahidi “Imagine That” Interview Hollywood Blvd. Woodridge, IL
The long line outside Hollywood Blvd. Theater in Woodridge, Illinois looked endless as I approached the entrance with staff writer Jessica Aymond. Mobs of little girls, boys, and parents were waiting eagerly and patiently to … Read more
Imagine That (PG) ★★★★
Quality Time With Dad
Hey, I’m with you if you’re questioning the thought of ‘Eddie Murphy’ in a family comedy film? Fortunately, I’m here to tell you that he’s tame in the film and he’s … Read more
The Proposal (PG-13) ★★★☆
Say I Do or Else!
If you’re looking for a near perfect romantic comedy then you won’t be disappointed with “The Proposal.” The film boasts big name stars: Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Betty White, Mary … Read more
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (PG) ★★★★
Historical Personas Come Alive!
Night at the Museum: Battle of The Smithsonian is an example of an entertaining family film that all can enjoy. As a former teacher I say bravo to director Shawn Levy… Read more
Star Trek (PG-13) ★★★★
A New Generation of Trekkie Fans
“Star Trek” the film is an immensely enjoyable nostalgic space journey down celestial lane. The franchise celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2006 and by the looks of this film; … Read more
Up (PG) ★★★★
Brilliant Spectacle of a Film for All Ages
Walt Disney Pixar Animation Studios presents “Up” in 3D. This film is a brilliant tribute to the genre of animation. Not only is the story a wonderful … Read more
X Men Origins: Wolverine (PG-13) ★★★
I am The Wolverine!
Hugh Jackman as the comic book character Wolverine is hands down or shall I say blades down the best of the best in this category. He’s got it– don’t even try … Read more