Preston, Spezi probe ‘Monster of Florence’ (2008)
Preston & Child flashback (Book review): Journalists aren’t supposed to become the story. But in this bizarre chronicle, you’ll see they can’t be blamed.
History
Preston, Spezi probe ‘Monster of Florence’ (2008)
‘Superheroes Decoded’ (2017) a definitive documentary
Superhero Saturday (TV review): This is the definitive analysis of superheroes and how they bob and weave with American history.
‘Batman & Bill’ (2017) points Finger at DC Comics
Superhero Saturday (Movie review): This documentary is a touching chronicle of the fight to get late Dark Knight co-creator Bill Finger his proper credit.
John’s top 10 movies of 2020
2020 movies: This unusual year nonetheless offered some movies worth celebrating. Here are my top 10 films of 2020.
Endearing chimp stars in Preston’s ‘Jennie’ (1994)
Preston & Child flashback (Book review): Preston’s nonfiction career starts with a heartfelt tale (based on true stories) of a chimp raised in a human family.
‘Trial of the Chicago 7’ a gripping history lesson
Movie review: Aaron Sorkin’s chronicle of seven defendants selected as scapegoats for Vietnam War-era riots is nicely layered and toned.
Anya Taylor-Joy’s ‘Emma’ is beautiful but uneven
Movie review: “Emma” nails the early 19th century English countryside, costumes, manors and manners. But the interludes are jarring.
‘Thunderhead’ (1999) shows thrills, scares of the West
Preston & Child flashback (Book review): Nora takes over as P&C’s favorite female lead in a grand adventure that teaches us a lot about Western geography.
‘Haunting of Bly Manor’ a beautiful, flawed meditation on love
TV review: It’s not as scary or as good as “Haunting of Hill House,” but this follow-up features a lot of beautiful storytelling.
‘Riptide’ (1998) an early Preston & Child treasure
Preston & Child flashback (Book review): The authors evocatively portray coastal Maine as treasure hunters take on ancient traps and vicious weather.