Culture
Examination of Mencken’s writings on religion has lessons for today
D.G. Hart is faced with writing both an interesting biography of Mencken and one that examines Mencken's comments on religion so that they help the reader better understand today's religious issues.
Friar-turned-lawyer writes novels about lawyer-turned-friar
Even though William Brodrick gave up the monastic life in the Augustinian order, just before priestly ordination, to be a lawyer, another call also had been tugging at him. It was persistent, and it didn't let go.
With new Nintendo game system, you may rather wait than switch
The hype about the new Nintendo Switch gaming system has been building for months, and the company marketing it is the most family-friendly in the industry. Yet adult players and the parents of younger gamers alike may want to hold off on buying this vaunted product.
On the journey of spiritual renewal, this book smooths a path
Honest writing and a willingness to share personal experiences mark spiritual writer Dolores Leckey's stories of interior journeys, especially when life doesn't "move along smoothly."
‘Kong: Skull Island’ is impressive monster movie with a message
A campy tone and a sense of dread drive this action film set in the waning days of the Vietnam War -- which serves as a cue for its exploration of the destructive human aggressiveness that gives rise to armed conflict.
Discernment needed when viewing ‘When We Rise’ miniseries
Catholic viewers will likely have experienced conflicting emotions watching "When We Rise," ABC's recent miniseries tracing the evolution of the gay rights movement.
‘Tower’ documentary erases shooter’s history in favor of victims’ grief
"Tower" recounts the harrowing events of Aug. 1, 1966, the day former Marine and expert marksman Charles Whitman climbed to the top of the University of Texas Tower in Austin and started shooting the innocent passersby below.
‘Logan’: A gory, gutsy film, in the worst sense
In between the very first word which begins with "F" and the last image which is sacrilegious, the movie spares no expense for on-screen bloody mayhem, all in an effort to show the protagonist's angst.
What comes after ‘Before I Fall’ is key to a conversion tale
The main character's "Groundhog Day"-like experience after death can be viewed as representing a sort of purgatory through which she must pass. Other aspects of the movie preclude endorsement for young people.
‘The Shack’ builds a case for a Christian perspective on evil
This film on the best-selling book takes on too many weighty subjects -- from the suffering of innocents to the need for forgiveness -- to treat any one of them in a fully satisfying way. But it is a beautiful, intriguing endeavor.