Backstage Pass

While viewing “Maestro,” one becomes immersed in the world of the musical genius Leonard Bernstein (Bradley Cooper) as well as the love story between him and his wife, Felicia Montealegre, (Carey Mulligan). Having a background in teaching gifted students, writing gifted curriculum, and with the knowledge of the characteristics of…

“The Holdovers” is the story of an eccentric boarding school teacher, played by Paul Giamatti, who works at an elite school where each year, a teacher stays at the school during the holiday break to watch the students whose parents can’t take them home. The students are called the holdovers;…

“The Marvels” is the sequel to “Captain Marvel” that opened in (2019). Nia DaCosta serves as director and co-writer. Screenplay credit also goes to Megan McDonnell and Elissa Karasik. The three main female characters are Brie Larson as Danvers, Teyonah Parris as Rambo, and Iman Vellani as Khan, with Samuel…

Writer and director Sofia Coppola’s new biographical drama “Priscilla” explores Priscilla Presley’s relationship with her husband, Elvis Presley. “Priscilla” is based on the 1985 memoir “Elvis and Me” written by Priscilla Presley–she also serves as an executive producer. Coppola’s dreamy slow-paced style brings us back to a young girl who…

“Lesson in Chemistry,” the Apple + TV series, is based on the best-selling book of the same name by Bonnie Garmus. The series has eight episodes and is truly delightful. Brie Larson stars as chemist Elizabeth Zott in the 60s, who ends up hosting a popular TV show titled “Supper…

‘Masterpiece’ is the word that came to mind within the first seconds of viewing cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto’s airborne wide shot of the massive Pawhuska, Oklahoma, territory that extends miles into the horizon. Martin Scorsese’s epic historical 1920s film of the Reign of Terror against the Osage Nation Indians is based…

“The Morning Show” Season 3 stars Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Billy Crudup and John Hamm. The Apple TV + series premiered on November 1, 2019, it’s hard to believe it’s been three years since the opening. I have to say that I’ve enjoyed the first two seasons, yet this one…

Attending the Toronto International Film Festival in-person is always a treat, and this year is no different—in fact, this may have been one of my most memorable events due to an outdoor ‘Street Fest Concert’ we attended. Canada’s beloved rock band ‘Nickelback’ gave a live performance on the center stage…

The journey of attending film festivals encompasses screening new films, meeting film talent, and networking with fellow critics and moviegoers. It never disappoints, and on-site experience has always heightened my film perspective. Each film festival has its unique vibe and tone; having attended Cannes, Sundance, and Toronto, I’ve been waiting…

Christopher Nolan is one of my favorite filmmakers; his attention to detail, tone, acting, production sets, and sound is always a delight. “Inception” (2010), “The Dark Knight”(2008), “Dunkirk” (2017), and “The Dark Knight Rises”(2012) come to mind when I look back on his memorable films. He’s set the bar high…