Slow Jam Saturday : Natalie Cole, “Starting Over Again”
The ballad was composed by Michael Masser and lyricist Gerry Goffin, and it was first recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1981. Eight years later, Natalie Cole covered the song, shortening the title. It became the fourth single from her twelfth album, “Good to Be Back.”
“A Different Man” is a compelling study of the consequences of wanting perfection
Writer and director Aaron Schimberg delivers an engaging feature with his fourth film, “A Different Man,” produced by A24. In an era where image often precedes substance, “A Different Man” examines the complexities of identity, ambition, and the lengths individuals may pursue to realize their dreams.
“September 5th is an compelling history lesson
In an era characterized by the rapid dissemination of information, the film “September 5” effectively underscores a significant turning point in live reporting and journalism. Set against the backdrop of the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics, the film critically examines how a sporting event became the stage for a catastrophic global crisis.
“Babygirl” is a tantalizing dive into the consequences of desire
Romy Mathis (Nicole Kidman) is a high-ranking CEO in the Big Apple married to playwright Jacob (Antonio Banderas), with whom she shares two daughters, Esme (Sophie Wilde) and Isabel (Esther McGregor). Romy and Jacob appear to have a healthy sex life. However, Romy has a secret, and after every session with Jacob, she’s unfulfilled, and while he’s sleeping, she’s pleasuring herself to finish the job her husband can’t.
“The Fire Inside” is a boxing biopic that goes the distance
The film begins in 2006 with a young Claressa (Jazmin Headley) almost getting laughed out of the gym by the boys. However, possessing the heart of a lion, Claressa quickly catches the eye of former boxer turned coach Jason Crutchfield (Brian Tyree Henry) when she bests one of his boy boxers. “The Fire Inside” then takes us to Claressa’s junior year in high school, pushing past countless limitations to become the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing.
Second Listen Sunday : Toni Braxton, Snowflakes
Braxton’s vocal talent is perfect on the standards “Christmas Time Is Here,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “The Christmas Song.” However, like any good R&B Christmas album, it is the soulful yuletide bops where Braxton truly shines. The album’s first single, “Snowflakes of Love,” is instrumental of Earl Klugh’s “Now We’re One”. Braxton’s lush vocals encapsulate the warmth and joy of romantic love amidst a wintery backdrop.
Slow Jam Saturday : The Isley Bros, “What Can I Buy You”
Iconic R&B group The Isley Brothers had already solidified their pleasure in R&B when they released their first Christmas album, “I’ ‘ll Be Home for Christmas,” in 2007. Group member Ron has always had one of those voices that can sing anything, so it makes sense that the group’s first Christmas album would feature the usual standards with an R&B interpretation.
“The Man in the White Van” succeeds as an old school style thriller
The central protagonist is a young Annie, played masterfully by Madison Wolfe, who plays her with vulnerability and determination. Wolfe conveys the childlike wonder of childhood, yet she also embodies the absolute terror of Annie knowing she is being monitored. Her fall into fear has much more to do with the white van stalker than it does with the broader blindness of a culture that refuses to listen to children’s voices, as expressed in the heartbreaking way that her parents (played poignantly by Ali Larter and Sean Astin) cannot embrace the reality of what their daughter is being subjected to.
“The Brutalist” is throwback style dramatic epic
The supporting cast includes Joe Alwyn, who portrays Harry Lee Van Buren, the entitled and self-important young son of Harrison. Stacy Martin takes on the role of Maggie Van Buren, Harry’s twin sister. Isaach de Bankolé plays the character Gordon, a close friend of László. Alessandro Nivola represents Attila, a furniture store owner located in Philadelphia and cousin to László. Finally, Emma Laird plays the role of Audrey, the spouse of Attila.
“Juror No.2” serves as a solid swan song for director Clint Eastwood
Kemp serves on the jury for a high-profile murder trial involving James Michael Sythe (Gabriel Basso), who is accused of killing Kendall Carter (Francesca Eastwood). However, as the trial progresses, Kemp realizes that he may be responsible for the victim’s accidental death. Collette portrays Faith Killebrew, the Assistant District Attorney prosecuting the case.
Second Listen Sunday : John Legend, A Legendary Christmas
Christmas Day is ten days away, and this week’s pick for Second Listen Sunday is John Legend. The twelve-time Grammy winner was over a decade into his career when he released his first Christmas album, “A Legendary Christmas,” on October 26, 2018. When one thinks about Legend’s piano skills, it’s surprising that it took him so long to do a Christmas project; however, perhaps the singer was waiting for the right time. Music fans will be delighted that the legendary Raphael Saadiq produces all the songs for the project.
“Nosferatu ” is elevated horror with bite
Eggers masterfully crafts a narrative that explores the fine line between desire and destruction, drawing viewers into the emotional turmoil of his characters. The cinematography is breathtaking, with shadowy landscapes and hauntingly lit interiors that evoke a sense of dread and anticipation. Every frame of the film feels meticulously composed, a testament to Eggers’ commitment to his craft.