Why do television dramas insist on portraying Chicago, my hometown, as a city full of violence and decay? Like any major city in America, the metropolitan area has crime, drugs, and police corruption problems. Yet, its sense of community and…
‘A Journal for Jordan’ review: As director, Denzel Washington fails to bring these sentimental pages to life
There’s no denying that Denzel Washington is a great actor. The GOAT, even. Throughout the decades, the masterful, well-distinguished, and heavily-influential performer has demonstrated his high-caliber bravado in several premier projects, with accolades to spare for his thunderous talents. He’s…
Just Mercy Movie Review: A poignant and nuanced biopic
We’re taught from a young age to trust in the law. The law is fair and, if you didn’t do anything wrong, then the truth would shine through in the eyes of the law. Truth would win. In reality, the…
Creed II Movie Review: The sequel tries but it can’t quite live up to Ryan Coogler’s former glory
Ryan Coogler’s Creed opened in a youth detention center. Young Adonis Creed, pulsing with rage, gets in a fight with another boy for seemingly no reason at all. We didn’t just meet a new character in the Rocky franchise, we…
The Baker Brothers discuss family, the social complexities and 80’s influences in ‘Kin’
Science fiction films come in every shape, form, and even species. Although they may often borrow elements from each other, each one is truly unique. There is a strength that comes from sci-fi films that are meant to take place…
Creed 2 Trailer: Michael B. Jordan Returns To The Ring
Creed was one of the most pleasant surprises of 2015. A seemingly innocuous reboot of the Rocky franchise playing on the classic “son of the legend” trope ended up being an emotionally stirring and viscerally satisfying experience on the same level…
Black Panther Movie Review: A joyous celebration of Marvel’s newest superhero
From the moment that king T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) and his entourage fly through a portal into the African wonderland of Wakanda, director Ryan Coogler pulls no punches. He’s come to show us that this sprawling technological city on a Vibranium…