Culture
Books show importance of moms’ faith, health on faith, health of world
Two new books show that if mothers take care of their health and faith, the world can be a better place.
Teen heroine’s big adventure makes ‘Moana’ a new Disney classic
There's no mistaking the entertainment value of the film which is gloriously rendered in 3-D, with delightful characters and toe-tapping songs. But the non-biblical creation account may confuse young children.
Crisp, elegant and chic, ‘Allied’ holds few surprises
It's all Hollywood glamour until suspicion of espionage enters a World War II marriage, and the story finally gains traction as stiff-upper-lip style military duty competes with lush romantic pathos.
‘Bleed for This’ gets boxing’s brutality right, and its language
While the film's visuals are kept within the bounds of taste, the dialogue is another matter. The preponderance of offensive language disqualifies this aesthetically impressive movie from a general thumbs up.
‘The Edge of Seventeen’ goes over the edge of exploitation
This coming-of-age comedy aimed at teen girls has an R rating, so those target teens can't see it. The creepy, foul-mouthed sexual obsession of the film makes one wonder who the target audience really is.
Iowa historian revisits the history and future of Catholic schools
In a revised and expanded edition of "Parish School" published this year, Walch, a member of St. Thomas More Parish in Coralville, Iowa, remains bullish about Catholic schools.
Spanish-language booklet outlines challenges to U.S. Hispanic ministry
The two best things about this 80-page booklet are that it is in Spanish and it deals with the practical issues first- and second-generation Hispanics face when trying to become part of the U.S. Catholic Church.
‘Face of Mercy’ documentary shows how mercy works in people’s lives
Narrated by actor Jim Caviezel, the 60-minute documentary is scheduled to the broadcast through Dec. 16. Broadcast dates and times and other information about the film are available at faceofmercyfilm.com.
‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ goes heavy on special effects
Penned by "Harry Potter" scribe J.K. Rowling, and set in 1926 New York, the movie follows the adventures of an alumnus of Harry's alma mater, Hogwarts, who loses a magical briefcase to mere mortal hands.
‘Designated Survivor’ offers a new angle on the U.S. presidency
A real-life precautionary measure provides both the premise and the title for the engaging drama series "Designated Survivor." The show, which airs on ABC Wednesdays, 10-11 p.m. EST, premiered Sept. 21.