As a lifelong lover of film, you’d think I was not only on top of what is coming out or new but also what’s in development or in the pipeline. However, the last twenty years has seen an explosion of film production thanks to multiplex screens in need of product in addition to direct-to-video and direct-to-cable fare. Throw in a proliferation of streaming platforms and it would take ten lifetimes to watch every movie being made. Suffice to say, it’s getting easier for films to

Just like the greats in any field or specialty, Paul Newman made it look easy. Sure, he was handsome and charming (which opened more than a few doors) but he was also incredibly talented. He had an effortless gift for finding the center of his characters and making each cinematic portrait unique and memorable. From The Hustler to Cool Hand Luke to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to The Sting to The Verdict to Nobody’s Fool, Newman’s career was as extensive as it was accomp

The first time I saw Die Hard in a theater back in 1988, I was convinced of two things: (1) I had just witnessed the most awesome film of all-time and (2) I was destined to become a cop. I guess most pubescents with anger issues dream of signing up with “Johnny Law” to write their perceived wrongs, but as for me, I just wanted the action and to be a hero like John McClane. Over time, I realized that my suburban surroundings were far from any mean streets in need of protection

Author’s Note: I am a judge and programmer with the Trans Stellar Film Festival. Therefore, I am totally biased in my endorsement of these films. However, having seen every film at the festival, I am highly qualified to give this breakdown. Also, please note these opinions are my own and in no way reflect the opinions of the festival. About the Festival Trans Stellar Film Festival is a Detroit based non-profit film festival spotlighting films from around the world made by que

Caution: Spoilers Present When I decided to watch The Haunting of Bly Manor during a Halloween month that I daresay looks different from most, I thought I was in for an entertaining, scary story that would take my mind off of the intense elements of life. I was right, and I was wrong. Not unlike The Haunting of Hill House, which tells the story of a different family, The Haunting of Bly Manor is captivating with realistic, diverse characters and inviting story lines. However,