Movie review Archives

Cherished film hijacked to serve anti-Christian agenda

Mar 19, 2017

In an update of a well-known and Oscar-nominated Disney film, “Beauty and the Beast,” a supporting character has been written as an openly gay man. That has caused some consternation for this reviewer and perhaps also for some parents who wouldn’t otherwise hesitate to take their children to the film.

By Joseph McAleer

Latest Jesus movie has promise, but it goes unfulfilled

May 24, 2016

The Jesus of “Last Days in the Desert” is a wandering ascetic, not unlike the Essenes or some of John’s disciples, seeking God in solitude and self-denial, but its promise goes unfulfilled.

By Deacon Steven D. Greydanus

“The Revenant” calls for a critical Christian response

Apr 30, 2016

“The Revenant” is very much the sort of film that those in Christian circles who look for spiritual meaning in the world of film find attractive.

By Deacon Steven D. Greydanus

‘Bicycle Thieves’ and true poverty

yes

Mar 31, 2016

One of the 45 films of the 1995 Vatican film list in the “Values” category, “Bicycle Thieves” (1948) is new on Blu-ray from The Criterion Collection. The enduring power of Vittorio De Sica’s heartbreaking Italian neorealist classic “Bicycle Thieves” (originally released in the US as “The Bicycle Thief”) lies in

By Deacon Steven D. Greydanus

'That’s a crucifixion!'

yes

Mar 25, 2016

Some people think the Crucifixion only took place on Calvary. They better wise up! Taking Joey Doyle’s life to stop him from testifying is a crucifixion. And dropping a sling on Kayo Dugan because he was ready to spill his guts tomorrow, that’s a crucifixion. And every time the Mob

By Deacon Steven D. Greydanus

Best Picture nominee 'Brooklyn' is a rare gem about ordinary life

yes

Mar 18, 2016

“Brooklyn” is new this week on Blu-ray and DVD. “Brooklyn” is what seems like an increasingly rare gift: a film about the drama and discovery of an ordinary human life: about love and loss, sorrow and self-discovery, in a story that for once is not overshadowed by some deep injustice

By Deacon Steven D. Greydanus