Culture
Agnostic author pens atypical ‘appreciation’ of religion’s worth
When a former Catholic and now agnostic professor writes "Why We Need Religion," the result is unusual: he points out the value of prayer, forgiveness and joy, and how religion provides the means to find them.
‘Where’d You Go, Bernadette’: A tale of life after failure
Cate Blanchett's performance is complimented by a stellar supporting cast in this film about a woman unable to process her losses of inspiration and 20 years of resentment -- until she finally confronts her losses.
Heartwarming ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’ a study in dignity
A young man with Down syndrome and a down-on-his-luck crab fisherman share Tom and Huck-like adventures in this aesthetically accomplished, implicitly pro-life movie that subtly upholds the dignity of all.
‘Blinded by the Light’ shines as a sunny mix of comedy and drama
The music of Bruce Springsteen inspires a working-class teen in London to defy the odds and get the girl of his dreams (without losing his family and friends) in this lively tale based on a true story.
‘Angel Has Fallen’ milks bad guys’ deaths for laughs
Good personal values vie with relentless gory combat in this third installment of the action film series. Viewers are encouraged to chuckle at the many ways villains meet their doom.
New books outline history, modern realities of religious liberty
New works by Robert Louis Wilken and Steven Waldman offer insight to a debate that is often dominated by passion and emotion. Analyzing philosophy, history, theology and political science, each scholar asserts that tolerance ensures freedom of religion.
‘Angry Birds Movie 2’ spreads its wings and flies high
The flightless fowl of the beloved app soar in a sequel that's funnier and more heartwarming than their 2016 film debut. The feathery fun, which includes a solid moral lesson, will appeal to fans of all ages.
‘Good Boys’ are anything but
The R-rated buddy movie exploits a trio of tween actors for attempted laughs over wildly age-inappropriate subjects, including promiscuity, pornography and drug use.
Explore the virtues of ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold’
The live action film based on the popular children's animated show is a Hollywood rarity: a sunny, fun-filled movie with valuable lessons about kindness, friendship and tolerance, with only a few rough edges.
Filmmaker’s documentary less on immigration than the ‘human story’
The documentary follows director Marialuisa Ernst and her journey with a Caravan of Mothers of Missing Migrants, who are Central American women desperately searching for sons and daughters who vanished en route to the U.S.