Writer: Joel Pelachik
‘Good Fortune’ advocates for kindness, critiques capitalist wealth disparity
“Good Fortune” puts a new spin on the trope of an angel showing a human the beauty of life, with a stacked cast, memorable jokes and meaningful themes, our columnist says. Read More »
‘Roofman’ blends depth among absurdity in gracefully crafted dramedy biopic
"Roofman" combines depth, comedy and emotion in telling the real life absurd story of criminal Jeffrey Manchester. Read More »
Based on SU wrestling alum, ‘The Smashing Machine’ right hooks UFC authenticity
“The Smashing Machine," which follows Syracuse University wrestling alum Mark Kerr through his MMA days, is an authentic and memorable contender for best movie of the year, our columnist says. Read More »
Paul Thomas Anderson's timely ‘One Battle After Another’ deserving of praise
Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” channels his tension and quirkiness, while taking risks and changing course from his usual work. Read More »
After Sundance win, local director premieres film at Destiny: ‘Full circle moment'
Syracuse native Carmen Emmi premiered his Sundance-winning, Syracuse-based film “Plainclothes” on Thursday at Regal Destiny USA. Read More »
Charming stars can’t save ‘A Big Bold Beautiful Journey’ from vaulting ambition
Though “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” features big stars Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell, it falls short of the stars of sci-fi and romance films. Read More »
Solid lead performances, dystopian aesthetic doesn't redeem underbaked ‘The Long Walk'
Francis Lawrence's "The Long Walk" leaves viewers unsatisifed, lacking needed intensity and excitement, our columnist says. Read More »
Spike Lee's identity, formative influences ever-present in 'Highest 2 Lowest'
Spike Lee’s “Highest 2 Lowest” is a strong ode to Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 work, with its own personality and modern feel, our columnist says. Read More »
'Caught Stealing’ hits energetic home run in superb medley of thrilling wit
Darren Aronofsky’s “Caught Stealing” transports viewers into a vivid, grungy portrait of 1990s New York City with creative storytelling and strong acting. Read More »
New director not enough to diversify ‘Nobody 2’ from predecessor
The plot of “Nobody 2” is almost indistinguishable from the original “Nobody,” only adding enhanced camera work and a focus on family Read More »
‘The Naked Gun’ reboot provokes laughs despite trivial plot
Though the 2025 revival of the 1988 “The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!” doesn’t quite live up to the comedic mastery of its predecessor, director Akiva Schaffer’s version pays homage while including novel comedic moments. Read More »
Despite stagnant reboot, ‘Superman’ bodes optimistic dawn of DCU
The first installment of James Gunn and Peter Safran's DC Universe, "Superman," makes the comic books jump off the page, despite an underwhelming central narrative, our columnist says. Read More »
‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ poignantly critiques healthcare system
“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” returns to theaters this week to celebrate its 50th anniversary, giving viewers a chance to dig deeper into the complex themes of the movie. Read More »
‘The Phoenician Scheme’ embraces vibrant aesthetic to grapple with heavy themes
"The Phoenician Scheme" delivers on the quintessential components of a Wes Anderson film, but without a strong narrative, it relies too heavily on style, our columnist says. Read More »
‘Mission Impossible - The Final Reckoning’ ties up loose ends in franchise conclusion
"Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning" is a more than worthy ending to the franchise, with heart-pounding action sequences, tear-jerking moments and slick flashbacks, our columnist says. Read More »
‘Nonnas’ highlights Italian-American culture with family-friendly comfort
“Nonnas” celebrates nostalgia, family and food through the true story of Joe Scaravella, who opened an Italian restaurant in Staten Island after his mother’s death. Read More »