Culture

Short book sets out church’s role in Middle Ages, warts and all

Part of a series aimed at "debunking the myths" of Catholic history, the author includes a "You Be the Judge" feature in each chapter that seeks to clarify the motive for various events.

‘The truth’ on UFOs is out there, on Showtime

A four-part docuseries makes the point that the search for evidence of extraterrestrial life has, for too long, been a pursuit shrouded in secrecy and dismissed as eccentric. The series begins with a breathless opening but becomes increasingly intriguing.

‘Stillwater’ flows in bleak, yet touching, course

Matt Damon's latest role as a father seeking to vindicate his imprisoned daughter, while redressing his own failings as a parent, makes for a thoughtful film journey.

Legend comes to life in mystifying ‘Green Knight’

Director David Lowery's film take on the medieval Arthurian tale is lovely to look at, but difficult to plumb.

Thriller gets ‘Old’ quickly

Despite an engaging start and credible ending, M. Night Shyamalan's latest flick about a time-warp tropical paradise ages fast, and rather badly.

Wine: An omnipresent food with spiritual significance

Scripture and Christian history underscore the significance of the grape, in moderation, even up to the present. See our recipe for a refreshing summertime wine spritz.

Latest golf-themed Super Mario game comes to the fore

"Mario Golf: Super Rush," the sixth installment in the family-friendly, links-themed series, features beloved characters as gamers compete on six different golf courses amid new twists.

‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’ is an easy layup, missed

The potential for fun in a remix of live action and animation plus basketball led by LeBron James is lost amid the grinding gears of bad writing from six screenwriters and a smug outlook.

‘Sophie: A Murder in West Cork’ shows life’s fragility

The Netflix docuseries, which examines the 1996 killing of a French television producer in "the safest place in Ireland," offers a thoughtful, haunting take on an unlikely crime.

Collection of heroic, sweet dog stories highlight God’s presence

However unbelievable but true, each story of second chances and seemingly serendipitous encounters with dogs represents a little wink from God, revealing his blessings amidst life's twists and turns.