Culture
Sleight of hand, good chemistry may make ‘Deception’ a hit
The ABC drama that debuts March 11 following "American Idol" presents a magician who solves crimes with an FBI agent, including an intrigue involving he and his twin brother.
Engaging look at diverse objects brings Catholic history to life
What could Christopher Columbus' compass, the Wittenberg door and the curls of St. Therese of Lisieux possibly have in common? All, it turns out, reveal memorable stories about the history of the church.
The inconvenient truths behind networks’ ‘sweeps’ ratings
What happens during sweeps month is that networks load up with the most attractive programming possible, because how the network does in the sweeps-month ratings helps dictate the price of advertising in the subsequent months before the next sweeps period.
Runway to heaven: Vatican, The Met piece together faith and fashion
"Fashion and the Catholic Imagination" will include more than 100 pieces from top designers inspired by Catholic symbolism and art, as well as 40 vestments from the Vatican, at the Met in New York May 10-Oct. 8.
Lord knows, ‘Red Sparrow’ falls hard
Twisty and sophisticated, the film might have offered relatively flavorful entertainment. But gruesome violence and gratuitous sexual content ruin its appeal. A long and intense scene of interrogation is artistically unjustified.
Vulgar language mars otherwise winning ‘Game Night’
Despite its tendency go astray, the film's script promotes a positive view of marriage and parenthood, alongside much enjoyable humor that is offset by numerous distasteful jokes.
New take on Revelation like nothing else you’ve ever read
Micah Kiel's love of apocalyptic literature inspired a new book that gives readers a whole new perspective on Revelation.
National Gallery exhibit explores St. Francis’ reception of stigmata
"Heavenly Earth: Images of Saint Francis at La Verna" includes 30 pieces of Franciscan art centered on the miraculous 13th-century event. The exhibit was to open Feb. 25.
By the final reel: films for Lent with conversion themes
Here, in alphabetical order, are capsule reviews of 10 films that showcase characters experiencing a positive change of heart, mind or outlook.
Visually striking ‘Annihilation’ fizzles to its end
This sci-fi/horror blend is beautifully shot and morbidly fascinating. But the movie's initially strong grip on the audience gradually loosens, and the conclusion toward which it builds ultimately feels like a letdown.