John’s top 10 TV shows of 2021
2021 television: Mystery miniseries dominated 2021. But at least one reliable old standby cracks my list of the year’s 10 best TV shows.
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‘Only Murders in the Building’ combines crime, cuteness
First episode impressions (TV review): For a dark comedy, this murder serial is warm-hearted. The subtle humor is a delight, and the mystery is compelling.
‘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.
DuVall’s ‘Happiest Season’ makes the Yuletide gay
Movie review: Clea DuVall establishes herself as a solid director in this film that mainstreams gay romances in the Christmas comedy genre.
Lily Collins shines in predictable ‘Emily in Paris’
First episode impressions (TV reviews): Here are my early takes on “Emily in Paris,” the horror series “Monsterland” and the MCU’s “Helstrom.”
‘Away’ a flighty drama about work-life balance
First episode impressions (TV reviews): Here are my first looks at “Away,” “Departure,” “Woke” and “Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous.”
Relatively thin schedule offers some highlights
Fall TV 2020 (Commentary): Here are my thoughts on 13 notable premieres as the Fall 2020 TV season begins amid the pandemic.
‘Palm Springs’ gets by on charming chemistry
Movie review: “Palm Springs” is only mildly funny, but the chemistry between Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti make it easy to watch.
Horror film ‘The Lodge’ doesn’t dodge mental illness
Movie review: This psych-horror movie is further proof that filmmakers aren’t dodging stories about mental illness.