Author: hunterjfriesen

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 182

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: She Dances with Forbidden Fruits

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Joe Botten – The MN Movie Man

The MN Movie Man is back with a final batch of reviews for March!

On his site, you’ll find new reviews of Fantasy Life, She Dances, Late Shift, Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice, Forbidden Fruits, and Pretty Lethal.

Over at Loud and Clear Reviews, he has a review of Our Hero, Balthazar, and the new Netflix series Something Very Bad is Going to Happen.

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram, Letterboxd, TikTok, and Facebook for his weekly early looks at upcoming films and other updates between newsletters!

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian covered the following titles: André Is an Idiot, A Magnificent Life, and Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice.

Brian also appeared on the latest episode of The CineFiles. The group discusses Tow, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, and Project Hail Mary.

For his Patreon subscribers, Brian posted an exclusive review of Julia Ducournau’s Alpha.

Show your support and check out more of Brian’s work by joining his Patreon community.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice. That review can also be found at the Eden Prairie Local News and Woodbury News Net.

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

Better late than never.  The Vern of Cinema Recall reviews the sequel to Ready or Not with Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, & also claims that The Bride from director Maggie Gyllenhaal is a future cult classic.

After that, listen to a sneak preview of our new director series, Recalling Rodriguez.  Where The Vern and a guest look at Robert Rodriguez’s films.  First up, it’s the action classic, Desperado.

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Eric Houston presses play on Gremlins and Gremlins 2.

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

New issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter!  Thoughts on “The Phoenician Scheme”, “Car Wash”, “Dragonslayer”, “His First Flame”, “Prince and the Pauper”, and Frank Miller’s “Sin City”.  Follow the link.

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik published one review this week: One Oscar After Another: The highlights of the 98th Academy Awards – The Oracle

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

At his site, Liedke reviewed recent March releases “Tow,” “They Will Kill You,” and “Project Hail Mary.”

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Reviews for Project Hail Mary and Tow, and an interview with photographer Serena Omangi.

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 181

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Ready or Not: Here I Tow

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Joe Botten – The MN Movie Man

The MN Movie Man hopes you had as much fun with the Oscars as he did — what a great year for film! Check out his Oscars page for a rundown of his thoughts and a full list of the winners!

While you’re at it, check out his review of Viva Verdi! (an Oscar nominee for Best Original Song) and his reviews of the Oscar-nominated shorts in Live Action, Documentary, and Animated. Did you see them? Did the Academy get it right?

On his site, you’ll find new reviews of Project Hail Mary, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, I Swear, Dead Lover, Undertone, Slanted, Friends Like These: The Murder of Skylar Neese, The Track, and Hoppers!

For physical media lovers, there’s a full shelf’s worth of new reviews. On the 4K side: The Pink Panther, A Shot in the Dark, The Pink Panther Strikes Again, Revenge of the Pink Panther, Diva, Babe, and its sequel, Babe: Pig in the City. Jean-Claude Van Damme fans have two 4K reviews to take down: Knock Off and Double Impact. Genre fans can sink their teeth into 4K reviews of The Visitor, Westworld, Sorority House Massacre, and Fade to Black, as well as a Blu-ray review of the better-than-it-sounds Stripped to Kill. Two underappreciated films, The Door in the Floor and Holy Smoke, are also reviewed in shiny new Blu-ray editions. Stay tuned for WAY more coming soon!

Be sure to follow him on Instagram and keep an eye out for upcoming giveaways of physical media and digital codes!

Over at Loud and Clear Reviews, he has a review of Reminders of Him as well as two fun features he’d been waiting to write for a while: 10 Best Original Song Oscar Losers Ranked and Diane Warren Oscar Songs Ranked from Worst to Best.

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram, Letterboxd, TikTok, and Facebook for his weekly early looks at upcoming films and other updates between newsletters!

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian covered the following titles: Late Shift, Miroirs No. 3, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, and Tow.

Brian also posted a new entry in his essay series, The Definitives, about Danny Boyle’s Sunshine (2007).

If you’re interested in more of Brian’s work, show your support by joining his Patreon community.

Dallas Fisher – Dallas Goes To The Movies

If you like reading, Dallas has written one new review this week for TOW, Rose Byrne’s immediate follow-up attempt to her Academy Award-nominated performance in IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU. 

If you like watching and listening, you can find two new movie reviews on his Instagram:

Dallas is also hosting Emagine Willow Creek’s Secret Movie Night on April 8, with tickets still available. 

One last thing: Dallas will host movie trivia starting in April at Emagine Willow Creek. Info can be found here

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Ready or Not 2: Here I Come and Mirrors No. 3

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

This week, you can find reviews for two new releases at GOAT Film Reviews!

Zach Hammill – Movie Friend

Reviews for Project Hail Mary and Hoppers.

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob has reviews for Project Hail Mary, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, and Tow starring Oscar-nominee Rose Byrne!

Be sure to follow him on Twitter, BluSky, and Letterboxd!

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Since St. Patrick’s Day was just last week, here’s this oldie but goodie post: 17 Irish movies to watch to celebrate St Patrick’s Day

Connect with FlixChatter on Letterboxd and social media » Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul is back with new reviews and interviews this week!

READY OR NOT 2: HERE I COME review

READY OR NOT 2 Cast Interviews – Elijah Wood, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Samara Weaving, Kathryn Newton

Fox9 Good Day segment 3/16 – Paul’s Oscars Recap

Twin Cities Live 3/16 – Did Paul Accurately Predict the Oscar Winners?

Paul’s Weekly Newsletter – Watch, Read, Listen – 3/20/26

Follow Paul on social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP, Letterboxd, and Patreon

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Review for Ready or Not 2: Here I Come

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 180

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Project Undertone

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian covered the following titles:

Brian also appeared on a new episode of The CineFiles, discussing The Bride!, Project Hail Mary, and The Last Dragon (1985). And he returned to KARE 11 on Saturday to offer some Oscar picks and predictions.

If you’re interested in more of Brian’s work, show your support by joining his Patreon community.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter published reviews for Project Hail Mary and Undertone. He also published his final Oscar predictions, which can also be read at the Eden Prairie Local News and the Woodbury News Net.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

This week, you can find reviews for three new releases, including Project Hail Mary, which opens March 20th!

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Eric Houston presses play on Project Hail Mary.

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

Over at JakobTalksFilm, ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night, Jakob posts his Ranking of the 2026 Oscar-Nominated Feature Films (minus one!)

Be sure to follow him on Twitter, BluSky, and Letterboxd!

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

At his site, Liedke reviewed the recently released movie, “The Bride,” and wrote a column about iconic film studio logos. He also shared his predictions for the 98th Academy Awards. Check out how his predictions compared to what won.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Connect with FlixChatter on Letterboxd and social media » Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul is back with some new reviews!

PROJECT HAIL MARY – review

HOPPERS – review

THE MADISON – review

SCARPETTA – review

Paul’s Weekly Newsletter – Paul’s Oscar Predictions

Follow Paul across social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP, Letterboxd, and Patreon

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews: 

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Reviews for Undertone and Slanted.

Interview with actress/model Joy Ford.

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 179

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: The Hopping Bride

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

For his Patreon community, he posted an exclusive review of The Bride!.

Jay Gabler – Duluth News Tribune

For the Duluth News Tribune, Jay rounded up this year’s Best Picture Oscar nominees. For The Tangential, he reviewed Sirāt.

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

The Vern writes a review of a fun little noir thriller about a late-night security guard who suspects something foul of one of its tenants in Shift.

The Vern gets called by his real name and discusses the Oscars on the DDI Films Podcast. And later on, The Rotten Truth, The Vern and Donnie discuss the lowest-rated movie in Rotten Tomatoes’ history: Stephen King’s Graveyard Shift, which got a 0% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

On Press Play, Eric Houston talks murder babies and Michael Moriarty with his review of Larry Cohen’s It’s Alive Trilogy.

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews the new Disney/PIXAR film Hoppers and gives his Final Winner Predictions for the 98th Academy Awards!

Be sure to follow him on Twitter, BluSky, and Letterboxd!

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik published 5 reviews this week, finishing his series ranking the 10 Best Picture nominees for the 98th Oscars. They include “Sentimental Value,” “One Battle After Another,” “Sinners,” “Hamnet,” and “Marty Supreme.”

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

At his site, Liedke reviewed recent releases “Psycho Killer,” “How to Make a Killing,” “Crime 101,” “Hoppers” and “Protector.” He also wrote about the films nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars, and penned a column about the closing of his hometown theater in International Falls, Minn.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Connect with FlixChatter on Letterboxd and social media » Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Film reviews for The Dreadful and The Bride.

Interview with film reviewer Jared Huizenga.

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 178

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Scream Dreams

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Joe Botten – The MN Movie Man

The MN Movie Man hopes you’re crossing the final titles off your Oscar list—he’s nearly completed another full sweep himself, catching every nominee from Sinners to Mr. Nobody Against Putin!

This past weekend also brought the return of America’s favorite toxic relationship: Ghostface and Sidney in Scream 7. You can read his spoiler‑free review for Loud and Clear Reviews, along with coverage of several new releases, including Dolly (opening this week), Honey Bunch, Dreams, How to Make a Killing, By Design, Pillion, The Moment, and two of his most admired films of 2026 so far: EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert and Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die.

On the physical‑media side, he’s reviewed Jacques Tati’s Playtime and Reginald Hudlin’s House Party—both entering the Criterion Collection—plus new 4K editions of Death on the Nile, Evil Under the Sun, The Mirror Crack’d, and more on the way. Be sure to follow him on Instagram and keep an eye out for upcoming giveaways of physical media and digital codes!

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram, Letterboxd, TikTok, and Facebook for his weekly early looks at upcoming films and other updates between newsletters!

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

For his Patreon community, he posted a new entry in his essay series, The Definitives, about Paul Thomas Anderson’s Magnolia (1999). He also posted his Scream 7 review exclusively to Patreon.

Elsewhere, Brian returned to KQRS (92.5 FM), the Twin Cities’ classic rock station, to talk about what’s in theaters. And he co-hosted the latest episode of The CineFiles, on which he and KARE 11’s Chris Hrapsky discuss Ghost Elephants, How to Make a Killing, and “Wuthering Heights”.

Dallas Fisher – Dallas Goes To The Movies

Dallas has one new review up on his website this week, and it’s for the new Jessica Chastain-starring romantic thriller, DREAMS.

A video review for SCREAM 7 can also be found over on his Instagram.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Dreams.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

This week, you can find an early review for Michel Franco & Jessica Chastain’s follow-up to the excellent and underseen Memory from 2023! Does Dreams continue a strong partnership? [Early Review] Dreams (2025)

In case you missed it, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is now available for digital purchase! You can find my review on the site as well! [Early Review] 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (2026)

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob has reviews for Scream 7, Michel Franco’s newest film, Dreams, starring Jessica Chastain, as well as a review for the new second season of Apple’s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters!

Be sure to follow him on Twitter, BluSky, and Letterboxd!

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik published 5 reviews this week, part of his series ranking the 10 Best Picture nominees for the 98th Oscars. They include “Bugonia,” “Frankenstein,” “F1,” “The Secret Agent,” and “Train Dreams.”

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Connect with FlixChatter on Letterboxd and social media » Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Review:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews: 

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Scream 7 Review

Interview with actress Georgia Reding

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 177

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: How to Make a Psycho Killer

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Eli Brau – Cinephile Corner

Eli has a few new pieces this week over on Cinephile Corner. In their movie reviews section, he has reviews for the following films:

He is also reviewing a different Hong Kong action movie every Sunday for the first half of 2026. This week, he wrote about Tsui Hark’s 1989 film A Better Tomorrow III: Love and Death in Saigon.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

For his Patreon community, he posted an exclusive review of “Wuthering Heights”.

Finally, Brian appeared on KARE 11 to recommend three movies about the Olympics.

Dallas Fisher – Dallas Goes To The Movies

Over on his website, Dallas reviewed two new releases: Pillion and How to Make a Killing

You can also check out two video reviews over on his Instagram: Wuthering Heights and Crime 101

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed How to Make a Killing. He also published his extensive list of the Top 50 Films of the 2020s.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

This week, there are several new release reviews available and a necessary Oscar-nominated documentary.

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

On this latest episode of Random Thoughts of a Movie Insomniac for Cinema Recall, The Vern reviews these movies: Send Help, How to Make a Killing, Sirat, Mr. Nobody Against Putin, Wuthering Heights, and The Moment.

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, thoughts on Sam Raimi’s “Send Help”, Federico Fellini’s “8 1/2”, Robert Mitchum as Philip Marlowe in “Farewell, My Lovely”, Charlie Chaplin in “A Night in the Show”, Lon Chaney Jr. as the “Son of Dracula”, and an episode of “Alfred Hitchcock Presents”.  Follow the link.

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob finally finishes his Sundance Festival coverage with reviews for Rachel Lambert’s Carousel and NB Mager’s Run Amok! Also up on the site are his Final Winner Predictions for BAFTA (which will have already been announced by the time of this posting), PGA, WGA, and SAG (Actor Awards)!

Be sure to follow him on Twitter, BluSky, and Letterboxd!

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik has one new film review this week, covering Kon Ichikawa’s sports documentary masterpiece,  “Tokyo Olympiad” (1965).

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Check out what Paul has been working on!

Baz Luhrmann Interview – EPiC ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT

WUTHERING HEIGHTS – review

Fox9 Good Day – Your Next TV Binge

Follow Paul across social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP, on Letterboxd, on YouTube, and Patreon.

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews: 

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews: 

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Film Reviews:

Interview with writer/director Wesley Johnson

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 176

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Nirvanna Heights

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Eli Brau – Cinephile Corner

Eli has a few new pieces this week over on Cinephile Corner. In their movie reviews section, he has reviews for the following new releases:

He is also reviewing a different Hong Kong action movie every Sunday for the first half of 2026. This week, he wrote about John Woo’s 1987 film A Better Tomorrow II.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

For his Patreon community, Brian posted a new entry in his essay series, The Definitives, about John Sturges’ Bad Day at Black Rock (1955).

Finally, Brian appeared on the latest episode of The CineFiles. He and Chris Hrapsky discuss Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die, Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, Pillion, and Magnolia (1999).

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Pillion and Crime 101. He commenced his series on the 50 best films of the 2020s on his Instagram page.

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

Jason “The Vern” Hemming releases another episode of Random Thoughts of a Movie Insomniac, with short reviews of: The Running Man (2025), Marty Supreme, The King of Comedy, The Testament of Ann Lee, and more.

On Cinema Recall’s website, you can read his review of the Oscar nominated Documentary, Mr. Nobody Against Putin.

Over on Rabbit Hole Podcasts, check out a new episode of The Rotten Truth, a podcast that looks at low scores on Rotten Tomatoes to see how bad they really are. On this edition, Donnie Roberts and The Vern watch the feature film debut of controversial comedian Andrew “Dice” Clay, and his feature, The Adventures of Ford Fairlane.

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews Gore Verbinski’s wild Good Luck, Have Fun, Dont Die, the Sam Riley-starring resort-set thriller Islands, and continues to catch up on Sundance reviews with Rock Springs!

Be sure to follow him on Twitter, BluSky, and Letterboxd!

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik hosted the February edition of the Secret Movie Night at Emagine Willow Creek and selected “Ace in the Hole” (1951). Thank you to everyone who showed up!

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Review: SCARLET (2025) – A medieval princess on a vengeful quest in this Hamlet-inspired action fantasy anime feature

Review: Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die – Sam Rockwell lets it rip in this wild, wacky, chaotic anti-AI sci-fi satire

Review: CRIME 101 (2026) – Hemsworth & Ruffalo reunite in this stylish, moody Michael Mann-esque heist flick

Connect with FlixChatter on Letterboxd and social media » Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul is here with new reviews, articles, and a fun interview to share!

Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die – Review

Crime 101 – review

Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry Interview – Crime 101

Paul’s Weekly Newsletter – Remembering James Van Der Beek

Book Review – The Last Kings of Hollywood by Paul Fischer

Follow Paul across social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP, on Letterboxd, on YouTube, and Patreon.

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blue-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Film Reviews:

Podcast interview with actress Gael Palen

Tyler Strandberg – Cinefied

Tyler’s latest on Cinefied dives into pop chaos with The Moment and rides into Westeros lore with A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, two very different worlds united by sharp storytelling and big swings.

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 175

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Good Luck, Kill Dracula, Don’t Whistle

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Eli Brau – Cinephile Corner

Eli has a few new pieces this week over on Cinephile Corner. In their movie reviews section, he has reviews for the following past/classic releases:

He is also reviewing a different Hong Kong action movie every Sunday for the first half of 2026. This week, he wrote about John Woo’s 1986 film A Better Tomorrow.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

For his community on Patreon, Brian posted an exclusive review of The Strangers: Chapter 3.

Dallas Fisher – Dallas Goes To The Movies

Dallas has two new reviews over at his website that are actually for movies released last weekend, but they’re still playing in theaters:

You can also see some video reviews for a few newer releases on his Instagram:

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Josephine out of the Sundance Film Festival. He also has an early review for Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die.

He also made a list of predictions of who will be the jury president of this year’s Cannes Film Festival.

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob catches up on Sundance reviews for Chasing Summer, Union County, and the Audience and Dramatic Prize winner Josephine!

Be sure to follow him on Twitter, BluSky, and Letterboxd!

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik published two new film reviews this week:

He has also been invited by Emagine Willow Creek to host the February 11th edition of their Secret Movie Night series. Tickets are still available!

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

At his site, Liedke reviewed recent releases “Mercy,” “Shelter,” and “Send Help.”

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Connect with FlixChatter on Letterboxd and social media » Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul is back with some new reviews and interviews

You can find Paul on social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP, Letterboxd, YouTube, and Patreon

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Film Reviews:

Interview with writer/illustrator Dennis Vogen

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Individual Top Tens of 2025

The recent MNFCA Awards delivered a composite consensus for what our members deemed the best films of the year. But how would things look if we broke it down to an individual level? Well, that’s exactly what we’ve done with this article!

Each member of the MNFCA was asked to submit their individual film lists. We encourage you to use these lists as a jumping-off point for discovering some great films that came out in 2025, and appreciate the great work that all of our members do!

Joe Botten – The MN Movie Man

  1. Train Dreams
  2. The Testament of Ann Lee
  3. Frankenstein
  4. Sinners
  5. Song Sung Blue
  6. Sentimental Value
  7. Sirât
  8. Weapons
  9. A Nice Indian Boy
  10. Friendship

Eli Brau – Cinephile Corner

  1. One Battle After Another
  2. The Phoenician Scheme
  3. Eddington
  4. Cloud
  5. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
  6. Marty Supreme
  7. Weapons
  8. Final Destination Bloodlines
  9. Wick Is Pain
  10. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

  1. One Battle After Another
  2. Marty Supreme
  3. Sentimental Value
  4. The Mastermind
  5. Mickey 17
  6. If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
  7. The Long Walk
  8. Sinners
  9. The Shrounds
  10. The Life of Chuck

Dallas Fisher – Dallas Goes To The Movies

  1. Black Bag
  2. Train Dreams
  3. Warfare
  4. One Battle After Another
  5. Caught Stealing
  6. Freaky Tales
  7. Sinners
  8. The Life of Chuck
  9. Marty Supreme
  10. Twinless

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

  1. Hamnet
  2. April
  3. Marty Supreme
  4. Frankenstein
  5. Sentimental Value
  6. Train Dreams
  7. Resurrection
  8. Is This Thing On?
  9. No Other Choice
  10. Jay Kelly

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

  1. The Long Walk
  2. One Battle After Another
  3. Friendship
  4. Sinners
  5. 28 Years Later
  6. The Testament of Ann Lee
  7. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
  8. It Was Just an Accident
  9. Bad Shabbos
  10. Marty Supreme

Barrett Goetz – The Screen Mash

  1. One Battle After Another
  2. Sinners
  3. Marty Supreme
  4. Weapons
  5. Frankenstein
  6. Train Dreams
  7. Hamnet
  8. It Was Just an Accident
  9. Zootopia 2
  10. Superman

Matt Hambidge – FandomWire

  1. Marty Supreme
  2. Sinners
  3. Black Bag
  4. Sentimental Value
  5. Is This Thing On?
  6. No Other Choice
  7. Sketch
  8. Splitsville
  9. It Was Just an Accident
  10. Weapons

Zach Hammill – Movie Friend

  1. One Battle After Another
  2. Friendship
  3. Sentimental Value
  4. Sinners
  5. Sorry, Baby
  6. Weapons
  7. Superman
  8. It Was Just an Accident
  9. Die My Love
  10. KPop Demon Hunters

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

  1. One Battle After Another
  2. Sentimental Value
  3. Weapons
  4. Bugonia
  5. The Naked Gun
  6. The Housemaid
  7. Eddington
  8. Nouvelle Vague
  9. The Toxic Avenger
  10. F1

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

  1. One Battle After Another
  2. Marty Supreme
  3. Sentimental Value
  4. 28 Years Later
  5. The Secret Agent
  6. Sinners
  7. Hamnet
  8. Weapons
  9. Black Bag
  10. Blue Moon

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

  1. Hamnet
  2. One Battle After Another
  3. Sinners
  4. Bob Trevino Likes It
  5. Sorry, Baby
  6. Come See Me in the Good Light
  7. All That’s Left of You
  8. One of Them Days
  9. Jay Kelly
  10. The Testament of Ann Lee

Tim Lammers – Forbes

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Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

  1. No Other Choice
  2. It Was Just an Accident
  3. One Battle After Another
  4. Sentimental Value
  5. Rental Family
  6. KPop Demon Hunters
  7. Sinners
  8. Hamnet
  9. Superman
  10. Song Sung Blue

Brad Lenz – The Screen Mash

  1. Sinners
  2. It Was Just an Accident
  3. Twinless
  4. Train Dreams
  5. Weapons
  6. Sentimental Value
  7. Hamnet
  8. Marty Supreme
  9. Bring Her Back
  10. One Battle After Another

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

  1. No Other Choice
  2. Bugonia
  3. Sentimental Value
  4. Blue Moon
  5. Frankenstein
  6. The Phoenician Scheme
  7. Wake Up Dead Man
  8. Rental Family
  9. Sorry, Baby
  10. Rosemead

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

  1. Hamnet
  2. Sentimental Value
  3. Train Dreams
  4. Frankenstein
  5. The Secret Agent
  6. One Battle After Another
  7. Black Bag
  8. Sinners
  9. Rental Family
  10. Checkpoint Zoo

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

  1. One Battle After Another
  2. Sinners
  3. The Life of Chuck
  4. Hamnet
  5. Weapons
  6. Marty Supreme
  7. Jay Kelly
  8. Wicked: For Good
  9. Train Dreams
  10. Is This Thing On?

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

  1. Resurrection
  2. The Secret Agent
  3. One Battle After Another
  4. Sinners
  5. Frankenstein
  6. Marty Supreme
  7. Sentimental Value
  8. If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
  9. It Was Just an Accident
  10. The Long Walk

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Unranked:

  • The Ugly Stepsister
  • If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
  • Predator: Killer of Killers
  • Sovereign
  • Highest 2 Lowest
  • A Little Prayer
  • Twinless
  • Rebuilding
  • The Rule of Jenny Pen
  • Roofman

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

  1. Hamnet
  2. Sinners
  3. Marty Supreme
  4. Weapons
  5. One Battle After Another
  6. Frankenstein
  7. Train Dreams
  8. Sentimental Value
  9. Nouvelle Vague
  10. Eephus

Tyler Strandberg – Cinefied

  1. Jay Kelly
  2. Thunderbolts*
  3. Materialists
  4. Twinless
  5. If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
  6. KPop Demon Hunter
  7. Hamnet
  8. Elio
  9. Frankenstein
  10. The Fantastic 4: First Steps

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics

The Minnesota Movie Digest: No. 174

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Stay updated with film critiques through their social media channels.

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Send Shelter

Welcome to The Minnesota Movie Digest, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Association (MNFCA)!

The MNFCA is a collective of individuals dedicated to celebrating and critically examining the art of film. In this recurring publication, we’ll share a selection of insightful film reviews, absorbing essays, and interviews with film professionals.

Each issue of The Minnesota Movie Digest features a diverse array of perspectives and content. Our members have shared their most recent work with us, covering the latest releases and revisiting classic films that dissect the craft of filmmaking. Explore the links below and get a front-row seat to critically examine the art of film.

Check out the MNFCA Members page to meet our all-star lineup.

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Eli Brau – Cinephile Corner

Eli has a few new pieces this week over on Cinephile Corner. In their movie reviews section, he has reviews for the following new releases:

He is also reviewing a different Hong Kong action movie every Sunday for the first half of 2026. This week, he wrote about John Woo’s 1979 film Last Hurrah for Chivalry.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed Send Help and Shelter.

He also posted an expanded version of his essay in The Definitives about Jules Dassin’s Brute Force (1947).

For more of Brian’s exclusive reviews and essays, please consider joining DFR’s community on Patreon.

Brian also appeared opposite Chris Hrapsky on the latest episode of The CineFiles, where they discussed Send Help, The Rip, and Mercy.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Shelter and The Wrecking Crew. He also previewed all the films he planned on seeing at the (virtual) Sundance Film Festival.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

GOAT Film Reviews has reviews for two new releases this week!

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s “Picturegoer” newsletter, thoughts on “Mercy”, “The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse”, “Evil of Frankenstein”, “Strike”, “There Will Be Blood”, and “Dropsie Avenue”.  Follow the link.

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews Sam Raimi’s return to horror, Send Help, and shares his Personal Awards for the films of 2025!

Be sure to follow him on Twitter, BluSky, and Letterboxd!

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik has one new film review this week, covering “Avatar: Fire and Ash” (2025).

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Connect with FlixChatter on Letterboxd and social media » Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Film Reviews:

Keep your eyes peeled for the latest film critiques, reviews, and news from the Minnesota Film Critics Association! 🎬🍿

Follow Us On Social Media
Instagram: @mncritics
Twitter: @MNCritics