Culture
‘Marry Me’ is better left at the theater’s threshold
Whatever merits the film might have in exploring traditional courtship, one patently offensive scene of near-sacrilege offers believing viewers a good reason to skip the movie altogether.
Farcical guy-dog road trip film offers a serious message
The quirky, good-natured but not family-friendly movie "Dog," starring Channing Tatum, reminds viewers of the trauma endured by military veterans that often goes unrewarded.
In ‘Moonfall,’ it’s (almost) the end of the world (again)
Special effects grab one's attention but the characters' interactions and tensions remain unresolved by the silly end of this unengaging sci-fi drama.
Economic theory comes to life in book on Catholic social thought
Economic principles based on Catholic social teaching can serve all people and the earth itself better than the current neoliberal credo of "maximization of shareholder value," which has created vast disparities in wealth.
Fourth ‘Hotel Transylvania’ closes lid on film’s franchise
The family-safe action of the latest and last film of the animated, friendly dad Count Dracula takes him on an adventure with his family in a story that lacks, eh hem, bite.
A look at the top movies of 2021
As the film industry works its way back from near paralysis because of the coronavirus pandemic, here are the 10 best overall and seven best family films of last year.
Can religion and politics get us beyond the culture wars?
This book's 14 essays mostly by academics doesn't solve any of today's problems, but it shows lessons we may learn about polarization and culture wars by studying the past.
‘The 355’ shakes up James Bond storyline with heroines
Who needs one Agent 007 when you can have five Jane Bonds? That's the premise behind this entertaining action thriller featuring a quintet of lady spies.
Christmas recipe: Soup for your soul and loved ones
Hosting or bringing a Christmas meal this year? No need to be "anxious and worried about many things," like Martha in the Bible. Here's simple one-pot, made-in-advance hearty minestrone soup that packs goodness and flavor.
In ‘The Matrix Resurrections,’ what’s old is Neo, again
Viewers unfamiliar with the elaborate backstory get little help in navigating the series' trademark combination of fights and philosophizing. And, while the mayhem is predominantly bloodless, some is disturbing.