movies
'The Smashing Machine': Dwayne Johnson Is the Best at Losing
The actor's latest makes for a curious career pivot, but fails to probe deeper into the intersection between love and hostility.
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movies
'Predators' and the Hidden Cost of Emotional Catharsis
David Osit's searing, insightful documentary goes beyond 'To Catch a Predator' to explore the collision of entertainment and justice.
movies
'One Battle After Another' Is Truly Revolutionary
With his sharp and witty action-thriller, Paul Thomas Anderson finds truth in the absurdity of our current moment.
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Ghosting Substack
I'm moving my newsletter to Ghost. Here's why.
television
Jimmy Kimmel and the Canceling of Culture
The administration continues its war on disfavored speech.
movies
Robert Redford Shined Even Brighter Than His Stardom
Some thoughts on the Hollywood legend following his passing at the age of 89.
movies
'A Big Bold Beautiful Journey' Removes the Texture from Intimacy
Kogonada's movie feels like a love story by Instagram influencers.
politics
Ezra Klein Is Doing Politics the Wrong Way
The NYT columnist is more interested in flattering his ego than telling the truth.
movies
'Riefenstahl' Shows the Empty Artistry of a Notorious Propagandist
Andres Veiel's new documentary thoughtfully reexamines the legacy of 'The Triumph of the Will' director.
movies
'The Long Walk': A Brutal Journey through America's War Machine
Text, subtext, and taking genre stories seriously.
movies
'The Conjuring: Last Rites': One More Round of Faith, Family, and Literal Demons
The horror franchise goes out on the same note it's been playing since 2013.
television
'Fit for TV' and Making America the Biggest Loser
Netflix's recent documentary highlights our ongoing appetite for cruelty.