Culture

Author shines needed light on dark chapter in U.S. Catholic history

"Desegregating Dixie" tells the story of the slow, hesitant desegregation of Catholic parishes and schools in the American South, a process that continues today among Catholic and Protestant churches.

‘Once Upon a Time’ evokes the good, bad and ugly of Hollywood

The cumulative effect of complex characters achieves a powerful aesthetic that explores friendship and the link between fiction and reality. But director Quentin Tarantino dials up his trademark morally offensive violent visuals.

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw

In keeping with a tested formula, barbs are traded, vehicles are raced and both fists and bullets fly in "Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw" (Universal), director David Leitch's stand-alone addition to the popular action franchise that started in 2001.

Family-friendly ‘Dauntless’ makes for heroes of all ages

The latest role-playing release from Epic Games, where warriors battle monsters, features bright, Pixar-style graphics and fantasy combat with minimal bloodshed, making it suitable for teen players.

‘Woodstock’ documentary all sights, but no sense

Visually satisfying but lacking a balanced narrative, the latest take on the 1969 music festival reveals nothing new about the event that symbolized the countercultural generation of "sex, drugs and rock ' n roll."

Digital bill of rights formulated, headed to presidential hopefuls

The digital bill of rights formulated by Free Press, a nonprofit that promotes equitable access to technology, diversity in media ownership and responsible journalism.

Rhode Island pastor competes on ‘Worst Cooks in America’ reality TV show

Each season, 14 "recruits" with extremely poor cooking skills take part in a culinary boot camp led by celebrity chefs Bobby Flay and Anne Burrell, to earn a cash prize of $25,000.

Intellectual bio traces influences on Pope Francis’ thought

For those interested in the intellectual framework that undergirds the pope's theological outlook, a new book paints a picture that is rigorous and sympathetic, suggesting a richness and complexity to his theology.

Players of ‘Dragon Quest Builders 2’ build in a world where it’s banned

Gamers who love to play "Minecraft" will love this sequel game to the 2016 original in which they learn to build, and fight off bad guys. The exceptional gameplay elements are enhanced by an engaging story.

As angel+demon buddy story, ‘Good Omens’ is funny, effective satire

The six-part series streaming on Amazon is a refreshingly witty departure from the tedium of so many television productions. It's a metaphysical romp to which only the easily offended are likely to take exception.