Culture
‘Nope’ offers violent, uncertain answer to question of evil
Gory and vulgar, the sci-fi horror film from writer-director Jordon Peele feels unfocused, lacking a solid response to the forces of darkness threatening its characters.
‘Paws of Fury’ dogged by lowbrow humor
The animated martial-arts spoof, featuring an insecure beagle for a hero, relies on nonstop bathroom jokes and intense cartoonish violence to tell its tale.
Two books underscore harmony of science, religion
Both "Finding God in the Universe" and "Discovery and Revelation" make a persuasive case for the "relational unity" between powerful fields of human thought. They echo St. John Paul II's call to find unity "as we move toward meaning in our lives."
‘Thor’ sequel puts hammer down on hero’s neediness
Tongue-in-cheek humor paces the vivid action in "Thor: Love and Thunder," Disney's third direct sequel to the Marvel Comics-based franchise's 2011 original.
‘Minions: The Rise of Gru’
A '70s vibe adds verve to the animated origin story of Gru, the good-hearted would-be villain of 2010's "Despicable Me" film franchise.
Can’t help falling in love with lavish ‘Elvis’
The over-the-top, furiously paced production unfolds at a dizzying pace, propelled by sensational musical numbers, good use of archival footage and a star-making performance by Austin Butler.
‘Lightyear’ blasts off with controversy on joyless journey
With a melancholy hero and depictions of same-sex marriage, the latest trip for space ranger Buzz Lightyear is one families won't want to take.
Contemplating Mary in faces of people of color
In his new book "Madonnas of Color," Oblate Brother Mickey McGrath takes a "long, loving look at the real," and offers everyone a way to gaze upon painful realities through beautiful faces.
Roaring and reunion in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’
The wrap to the second trilogy of the $5 billion film franchise brings back the trio of scientists at the heart of the 1993 original, along with the usual toothy dinosaur suspects.
‘Dark Winds’ a breath of fresh air in portrayal of Native Americans
The AMC thriller, based on the novels of Tony Hillerman, features nuanced characters and a pro-life subplot.