Culture
‘American Underdog’ traces NFL star’s path from obscurity
The sports-themed, faith-tinged biopic of once-obscure NFL quarterback Kurt Warner goes light on matters of religion, focusing instead on the steep challenge of building a career in the NFL.
Novel offers daring speculation on Christ’s middle years on earth
Catholic readers might have some problems with author Roland Merullo's associating Christ with an embrace of Eastern spirituality, but this is an otherwise thought-provoking and inspirational piece of fiction.
‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ weaves web of action, fun
Die-hard fans and first-timers alike will be drawn into the lavish final installment of a trilogy of films starring Tom Holland as the Marvel Comics superhero.
‘Being the Ricardos’ portrays unfunny side of ‘I Love Lucy’
Between power plays, grim executives, tactful diplomacy, simmering scandal and general misery among the players, the set of the iconic 1950s comedy appears a toxic workplace, in the new Aaron Sorkin-directed film.
Nun’s life experiences in poetry lead readers to reflect on own lives
The beauty of the poems in this brief book about one sister's healing from hardships is enhanced by the beauty of art through seven paintings by another sister. The verses can help readers to live lives with meaning, and to help others.
‘Jurassic World Evolution 2’ takes theme park game to new territory
The franchise's latest video game offering sees the dinosaurs expanding their already-large footprint throughout California, Oregon and even the nation's capital.
‘West Side Story’ a ‘splendid’ update of a timeless tale
Steven Spielberg's retelling of the classic Broadway musical (based on "Romeo and Juliet") movingly portrays the effects of prejudice, and the overarching unity of all.
Despite long odds, ‘King Richard’ built a mighty court
Actor Will Smith aces his vivid performance as the titular father of two future tennis greats, Venus and Serena Williams. This intriguing fact-based sports drama promotes an array of positive values.
‘Belfast’ contrasts Troubles with beauty of family love
Writer and director Kenneth Branagh's film set in Northern Ireland in 1969 is grounded in the strength of a devoted marriage and intergenerational care amidst the outbreak of sectarian violence.
Grumps can skip sweet, silly ‘Clifford the Big Red Dog’
The mostly harmless film mixes computer animation and live action to tell of a lonely girl who gets a huge surprise when her new puppy grows overnight to gigantic proportions, with fun hijinks in store.