Culture
‘The BFG’: A smart children’s movie for sharp kids
Directed by Steven Spielberg, the fantasy adventure is far superior to most offerings for youngsters. It's fun entertainment for the child who reads, and enjoys fairy tales with a slightly skewed perspective.
‘Kirby Robobot’: fresh take on a gaming staple
At a certain level, you know the piece, because you've heard the original. But the new version adds some elements that makes the whole experience fresh.
Resurgent aliens invade in time for ‘Independence Day’ sequel
Like discovering leftovers in the back of the refrigerator, a movie studio decided, "Hey! This hasn't gone bad!" The result is the film reprise of the hit alien-fighting epic of 20 years ago, but with less flavor.
‘The Shallows’ menaces as the ‘Jaws’ of our time
Alone and preyed upon by a determined shark, the heroine alone must escape by only her medical training, versatile use of earrings and ability to time the shark's movements to keep her alive and get to shore.
Thought-provoking, well made ‘Free State of Jones’ rises in theaters
The ambitious historical drama considers a little-known aspect of the Civil War: armed dissent within the South born of opposition to how the war was being conducted and to the principal reason it began.
‘Central Intelligence’ tests the wisdom of yet another buddy film
A high IQ is not required to view the odd-couple pairing of comedian Kevin Hart and wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne Johnson. What this dimwitted action comedy demands instead are stamina and perseverance.
Books about family, food, fireflies will keep kids reading this summer
See our reviews of eight books for young people with time on their hands, now that school is out.
Those seeking sequel to ‘Finding Nemo’ will rejoice in ‘Finding Dory’
Life lessons about family loyalty and the proper balance between courage and caution abound in a humorous script full of appealing personalities. Characters with various disabilities send an implicit pro-life message.
New comic series ‘Strange Fruit’ arrives a bit underripe
For this comic book's recipe, take one part Superman, add the 1967 film "In the Heat of the Night" and season with the 1951 classic "The Day the Earth Stood Still." Then subtract good writing from the mix.
Slim book can deepen Catholics’ understanding of new Mass responses
While they may be "right and just," the now familiar words of the new English translation of the Mass prayers published in 2011 has not led to understanding or appreciation. A new book helps to clarify those words.