Season 3 of “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” Feels Like Butter Scraped Over Too Much Bread
While the third season is made with love, it also no longer feels confident about what it’s trying to say.
Archives
Being in the Moment: W. Bruce Cameron and Cathryn Michon on “A Dog’s Perfect Christmas”
The masters of man’s-best-friend cinema talk about their latest jaunt, this time with hounds for the holidays.
Radio on the TV: The Best Films and Series About Life on the Airwaves
Breaking down the best (and worst) filmic stories about a very audio-centric medium.
The Right to Disobey: Sebastián Lelio (1974- 2026)
A tribute to the director of “A Fantastic Woman,” “Gloria,” and more.
Tokyo International Film Festival 2026: Weaving Cultural Threads
Highlights from this year’s Tokyo International Film Festival.
“Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4” is the Best in the Series in Years
“Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4” is the best game in this franchise in years.
It Gets Harder Before It Gets Better: Netflix’s “North of North” Returns For a Warm Second Season
Still a sitcom, but its charm, warmth, and pathos make it something truly unique.
Season 2 Proves That “Black Doves” Might Be Netflix’s Best Show
A thrilling balance of humor and espionage, and another show that blends the personal with the political in continuously captivating ways.
A Preview of the 27th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival
Previews of several fascinating Asian-led films showcased in this year’s festival.
Apple TV’s “Stick” Stays On Par For Its Second Season
Season 2 is a remarkable upgrade from the already engaging first season.
Female Filmmakers in Focus: Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson on “Mouse”
An interview with the Chicago-based filmmaking team on making intimate, character-driven films, moving forward with grief, and leveling up their directing partnership.
Highlights of the 2026 London Film Festival
Some standouts from this year’s London Film Festival from a resident.
“Bass x Machina” Brings Black Justice to the Steampunk Old West
A sharp straight‑shooter that, while not hitting all its marks, makes for a strong-armed binge.
Everyone Is Invited To the Party: Jordan Firstman on “Club Kid”
The first-time filmmaker talks about moving from the dancefloor to the director’s chair.
The Unloved, Part 155: Never Change!
Kicking off a year of comedy Unloveds with an underseen Hulu gem.
Paramount+’s “It Gets Worse” Couldn’t Get Better at Capturing Gen-Z Angst
In its aesthetics, hang-ups, and worldview, “It Gets Worse” is not for anyone who’s ever had a Facebook account.
But I’ve Seen Everything: Patrick Stewart (1940-2026)
A tribute to the Shakespeare and “Star Trek” actor, who passed this week at 86.
Yes She Did: A Tribute to the Legendary Dolores Huerta
A tribute to the legendary labor leader by the publisher of this site.
Monsters on My Wall: Nick Digilio on 40 Years, 40 Horror Films
An interview with a Chicago legend about his favorite horror movies.
