‘Sphere’ (1998) takes its place among sci-fi mind-benders
Michael Crichton Monday (Movie review): I can see why “Sphere” is disliked by many, but I’m surprised it’s not loved by more SF enthusiasts.
Author: John Hansen
‘Sphere’ (1998) takes its place among sci-fi mind-benders
Christie gets theatrical in ‘Murder in Three Acts’ (1935)
Sleuthing Sunday (Book review): This novel doesn’t have the strictest three-act structure, but it does tap into the notion of life as a performance.
Summer movie preview 2021: Calendar of releases, plus 10 films in spotlight
Summer movie preview: Last summer didn’t have much of a movie season, but signs point to 2021 being a notch closer to normalcy.
Barker’s ‘Hellraiser’ (1987) is artistic gore-horror
Frightening Friday (Movie review): While I wouldn’t categorize myself as a gore-hound after watching “Hellraiser,” I do admire Barker’s film as art.
Murray at his most curmudgeonly in lovable ‘St. Vincent’ (2014)
Throwback Thursday (Movie review): This under-the-radar gem has a standout cast as it tells of a bitter old man warming up to his decent neighbors.
Nostalgic ‘Broadway Danny Rose’ (1984) doesn’t tug at heartstrings
Woody Wednesday (Movie review): “Broadway Danny Rose” is Woody Allen’s love letter to his standup comedy days. But the film didn’t totally connect with me.
Crichton opens a smart puzzle box in ‘Sphere’ (1987)
Michael Crichton Monday (Book review): Unlike most Crichton novels, “Sphere” is a puzzle box. On your first read, you don’t know what it’s about.
Christie expands sleuth roster with ‘Parker Pyne Investigates’ (1934)
Sleuthing Sunday (Book review): Christie struggles to come up with the right word for Pyne’s job. He’s like a life coach, except you pay by the situation.
‘Slither’ (2006) a fun small-town infestation romp
Frightening Friday (Movie review): “Slither” isn’t scary, but it is disgusting. Yet the gross-out imagery is so cartoonish that it’s more funny than gross.
Murray, Dreyfuss trade great turns in ‘What About Bob?’ (1991)
Throwback Thursday (Movie review): Murray is not too showy as the titular neurotic, while Dreyfuss is delightfully over the top as his annoyed psychiatrist.