Category: Joe Botten

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 139

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: Another Simple Favor for The Surfer

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

It may have been quiet at The MN Movie Man these past few weeks, but the movie-watching and reviewing hadn’t stopped.  This week, the first half of a bundle of new reviews arrived, something for every taste.  Check out reviews for: Thunderbolts*, Another Simple Favor, Sinners, Psycho Therapy: The Shallow Tale of a Writer Who Decided to Write About a Serial Killer, A Nice Indian Boy, the remake of The Wedding Banquet, and Death of a Unicorn.

Over at Loud and Clear Reviews, Joe had reviews of The Legend of Ochi and the indie feature The Univited published.

Finally, if you are a planner, keep Wednesday, June 11 on your calendar.  The MN Movie Man will be hosting Secret Movie Night at Emagine Willow Creek!  More details (but not the movie title!) soon!

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:

For his Patreon subscribers, Brian wrote a new entry in his essay series, The Definitives, about Andrei Tarkovsky’s Stalker (1979). Check out his Patreon page.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch and Eden Prairie Local News, Hunter reviewed Thunderbolts* and Another Simple Favor.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, you can find video reviews of a bunch of 2025 releases, now available, including:

There’s also a new Unboxing Video for the recent Criterion Collection release of The Ranown Westerns, the first Criterion Collection 4k exclusive box set!

New episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: The Shrouds

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Movie Man Eric Houston watched the notorious flop Bonfire of the Vanities… and he loved it!

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

Catherine has five new reviews on The Feed: “Another Simple Favor,” “Government Cheese,” “Your Friends & Neighbors,” “The Wedding Banquet” and “Drop.”

She also published a new director list on Letterboxd: The Films of Paul Feig.

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik has two new film reviews for this week:

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

At his site, Liedke reviewed several April releases, including “Drop,” “Warfare,” and “The Amateur.” He also wrote a column about the first weekend of May 2015, which featured an interesting cross-section of movies and sports for a major collection of entertainment.

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul has a few new reviews this week!

THUNDERBOLTS* (catch this in theaters!)

THREE CLINT CLASSICS on 4K – New 4K releases of “Dirty Harry,” “The Outlaw Josey Wales,” and “Pale Rider”

And follow Paul across social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP and on Letterboxd

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD 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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 134

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: A Penguin, A Unicorn, and A Working Man Walk Into a Bar

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

With the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival kicking off this week, The MN Movie Man is gearing up for a few weeks of movie marathoning at The Main Cinema. But before all that, he’s got a full review of a film he cried through and loved during October’s Twin Cities Film Fest—now playing in theaters. Don’t miss Bob Trevino Likes It, which received special recognition from the MNFCA in conjunction with the festival. Come see why our group has such excellent taste.

Also, as a new staff writer on Loud and Clear Reviews, Joe published his thoughts on the historical epic William Tell.  Was it a bullseye?  Check it out and see!

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram, Letterboxd, 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 Opus, Death of a Unicorn, and The Penguin Lessons.

For his Patreon subscribers, Brian posted a review of Mountains May Depart (2015) as part of his “Filmmaker in Focus” series about Jia Zhangke.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Death of a Unicorn, The Friend, and Misericordia.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews site, you can find reviews of several new releases that opened this weekend!

Meanwhile, on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, there’s a new unboxing of Criterion’s CC40 Box Set. With an $800 price tag, this set is well-worth researching before you buy, and we’re taking a look at the various films included.

New episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: Threads (1984).

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, Daniel Craig stars in “Queer”; Christopher Guest lampoons dog lovers in “Best in Show”; Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn in “Funny Face”; Alec Baldwin and Fred Ward have “Miami Blues”; “Triple Trouble”, a Chaplin movie that’s not REALLY a Chaplin movie; and “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” visits the old west.  Follow the link.

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

Catherine has three new reviews on The Feed: “The Studio,” “Death of a Unicorn” and “The Penguin Lessons.”

She also published a preview of the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival and will be sharing updates in her Instagram and Facebook stories throughout the festival, which runs April 2-13.

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik Larson wrote a review of Season 2 of Squid Game for the Hamline Oracle.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

On FlixChatter, Ruth wrote a write-up about 2025 MSPIFF lineup + posted a list of female-directed films she’s excited about. 

She also wrote reviews of two recently released films currently on streaming:

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul is back with some new reviews this week!

Follow Paul across social media: @PAULSMOVIETRIP 

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD 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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 133

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: Snow White’s Secret Mall Apartment

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

Did you get out this weekend to see if Snow White was the fairest of all the Disney live-action remakes, or did you stay in and settle back with The Residence, the fun new whodunit that premiered on Netflix?  Either way, The MN Movie Man enjoyed both and also found time to wrap up his brief coverage of a few SXSW 2025 titles he was able to catch.  

Finally, it was a busy week over at Loud and Clear Reviews, where Joe published reviews of Ash, Locked, Hood Witch, and Secret Mall Apartment.

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

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 also has reviews for the following classic movies:

The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015) review

The Revenant (2015) review

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian recently reviewed the new thriller Locked.

Brian also appeared on the Reel Mental podcast with Dr. Marcia Sirota to discuss Mike Leigh’s Hard Truths.  

For his Patreon subscribers, Brian posted a review of A Touch of Sin (2013) for his “Filmmaker in Focus” series about Jia Zhangke.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Snow White.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, the clever (for both good and bad) “Companion”; a very sanitized take on American history in “Ben and Me”; Michael Caine and Christopher Reeve play mind games in “Deathtrap”; Brian de Palma gets meta in “Femme Fatale”; the nutty nuns comedy “The Little Hours”; and a book review of “Spike Lee’s Gotta Have It”.  Follow the link: https://picturegoer.substack.com/p/picturegoer-vol-3-issue-8-companion

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

Catherine paired the beloved sitcom “Black-ish” with baked mac and cheese and also paired the underrated romcom show “Harlem” with vegan shrimp and grits on Veg Out.

Plus, she has two new reviews on The Feed: “O’Dessa” and “Snow White.”

She also appeared on the Women’s History Month episode of The Revisionist’s Almanac podcast, talking about her favorite Triple F Treasures.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Ruth over at FlixChatter posted reviews of recent new releases in US + UK cinemas:

  • SNOW WHITE: While the lively tunes from Pasek + Paul make it enjoyable, this live-action remake is far from awe-inspiring
  • BOB TREVINO LIKES IT: an indie gem about the profound joy of unexpected friendship
  • Oh My Goodness (Juste ciel!) – A whimsical French comedy of mischievous bike-racing nuns

She also posted her review of NOSFERATU on Letterboxd | Stunningly beautiful and atmospheric, I’m glad I saw this despite not having the stomach for horror movies.

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul McGuire Grimes has a mix of new reviews this week!

In Theaters: The Rule of Jenny Pen review

Streaming: The Electric State on Netflix

Now on 4K and Blu-Ray: Star Trek: Lower Decks – The Complete Series & Babygirl

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD 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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 132

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 Black Bag is in The Electric State

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

Looking over the latest batch of reviews from The MN Movie Man, it’s a good time to go to the movies!  Here are the reviews of new theatrical releases Black Bag, Novocaine, and Opus.  For streaming horror, consider Control Freak on Hulu.  If you combine the budgets of all four of these films, you’d likely be halfway to the total cost of producing The Electric State on Netflix.  Find out how much that is in Joe’s review.

Finally, Joe published his first review as a new contributor on Loud and Clear Reviews, Borderline.

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

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 also has reviews for the following classic movies:

Lastly, he has a few updated lists in their movie rankings section, including the best Robert Pattinson movies ranked, the best Steven Yeun movies ranked, the best Steven Soderbergh movies ranked, and every Bong Joon-ho movie ranked.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian recently reviewed:

Brian also recently appeared on two podcasts as a guest: He joined Film Trace to discuss the 1969 and 2010 versions of True Grit, and then Reel Mental with Dr. Marcia Sirota to talk about Pedro Almodóvar’s The Room Next Door.

On his Patreon, Brian posted a new entry in his essay series, The Definitives, about Fritz Lang’s M (1931)

Last but not least, the Independent Film Critics of America (IFCA) has named Brian Eggert as 2024’s recipient of the Critic of the Year award. Read about the announcement on the IFCA website or Deep Focus Review.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Black Bag, The Electric State, and Opus.

Jay Gabler – Duluth News Tribune

Jay spoke with Minnesota Film Festival director Vera Bianchini for a Duluth News Tribune preview of this year’s festival, which takes place in Duluth from March 19-23.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews Website, you can find reviews of two new releases, Novocaine and Black Bag!

You can also find unboxing videos of two recent Severin home video releases on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel:

  • Dario Argento’s Deep Cuts is a 4-disc set with a ton of previously unavailable television work from horror maestro Dario Argento!
  • Hard Wood: The Adult Features of Ed Wood is a 3-disc collection of Ed Wood’s risque adult films, made during the end of his career in order to feed his alcohol dependency, these films are certainly what you’d imagine adult films from Ed Wood would be like.

New Episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: Novocaine

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Movie Man Eric escapes from the Planet of the Apes!

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

This week in the “Picturegoer” newsletter, Mel Gibson and Mark Wahlberg pose a “Flight Risk”; Richard Linklater combines truth and fiction in “Bernie”; the boundaries of bad taste are pushed by John Waters in “Female Trouble” and by Pedro Almodovar in “Matador”; Sam Peckinpah bids farewell to the old west in “Ride the High Country”; and the latest in a series on the classic ’70s sitcom “Taxi”.  Follow the link: https://picturegoer.substack.com/p/picturegoer-vol-3-issue-7-flight

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

Catherine paired the underappreciated 2011 romcom “Beginners” with pizza rolls and paired the 2006 unconventional love story “Stranger Than Fiction” with white chocolate walnut cranberry oatmeal cookies as a double feature to celebrate the third anniversary of Veg Out.

Plus, she has four new reviews on The Feed: “Superboys of Malegaon,” “The Monkey,” “The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie” and “Novocaine.”

She also wrapped up her month-long Comfort Collab Instagram series with 28 people pairing beloved baked goods with comfort shows and movies.

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

This is Erik’s first week as a member of the MNFCA, and here are his most recent movie reviews:

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Ruth over at FlixChatter posted a review of the recent Oscar-winning animated film FLOW – a captivating journey of visual storytelling makes this animated movie a timeless classic.

She also reviewed two new releases:

MICKEY 17 (2025) – Robert Pattinson’s comedic flair energizes Bong Joon-ho’s grand but uneven sci-fi satire

BLACK BAG (2025) – Soderbergh’s sleek, sexy spy caper makes the most of its impressive ensemble cast

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Check out what Paul’s been working on this week!

And follow him across social media: @PAULSMOVIETRIP

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 Kae Dusosky

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. 131

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 Rule of Mickey 17

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

Though The MN Movie Man spent much of last week trying to figure out how Demi Moore lost the Best Actress Oscar (could it have to do with a certain Best Picture winner spending 3x their budget on campaigning?), he managed to publish reviews of The Rule of Jenny Pen, Bloat, and The Fetus.

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

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Mickey 17 and Novocaine.

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, “Captain America: Brave New World”; Preston Sturges and Betty Grable collaborate (unhappily) on “The Beautiful Blonde from Bashful Bend”; Howard Hawks hits his stride with “The Dawn Patrol”; the beautiful empathy of “Mask”; the (intended) schlocky delights of “Upgrade”; and the latest in an ongoing series on the original ’60s “Star Trek”.  Follow the link: https://picturegoer.substack.com/p/picturegoer-vol-3-issue-6-captain

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

It’s been a busy week for Ruth over at FlixChatter. On the Monday after the Oscars, she posted a recap of the event: Full Winners list & the Highs + Lows of the 97th Academy Awards.

She reviewed the Disney Plus’ Daredevil: Born Again series and the newly released Last Breath, a gripping underwater survival tale based on the North Sea miracle. 

To celebrate International Women’s Day, she posted three reviews of films directed by women:

  • On Becoming A Guinea Fowl (2024) – Family secrets come to light in this unsettling but captivating dark comedy
  • Special Double Reviews: VERMIGLIO and MAESTRA – two wonderful films directed by women; an Italian historical drama + a documentary about women conductors.

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Here’s what Paul has been working on this week over at his website “Paul’s Trip to the Movies”

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Why Anora Deserved To Win Best Picture

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

New episodes of the St. Paul Filmcast:

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. 130

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 Last Breath for My Dead Friend Zoe

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

Do any of the new releases this week have Oscar potential for next year?   Too soon?  Never!  Check out  The MN Movie Man‘s reviews of Last Breath, My Dead Friend Zoe, and Cold Wallet to see how they might hold up a year from now 🙂 

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

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

Brian recently made several pieces on French auteur Bertrand Bonello freely available on Deep Focus Review, removing them from behind the Patreon paywall. These include House of Pleasures (2011), Saint Laurent (2014), Nocturama (2016), and Zombi Child (2019).

Brian also appeared on KARE 11 on Saturday, March 1, to share his Oscar predictions.

On his Patreon, Brian continued his “Filmmaker in Focus” series about Jia Zhangke with a review of The World (2004).

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, you can find unboxings of 2 new Severin Films releases: the brand-new 4k release of the Penne Post-Apocalypse film 2020 Texas Gladiators and also the Blu-Ray set of the best documentary from last year, Scala!!!.

In addition, you can always first reactions to many new releases with this playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvTWH5vntZpboGauahqdssPBfH90B9-WE

On the GOAT Film Reviews site, you can also find a review of the new film, Last Breath!

New Episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: A History of Violence (2005)

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Movie Man Eric Houston takes a ride in Larry Cohen’s The Ambulance!

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, Robert Eggers brings resurrects “Nosferatu”; Sam Peckinpah gets sentimental with “Ballad of Cable Hogue”; F.W. Murnau’s take on “Faust”; Francois Truffaut on “The Man Who Loved Women” (a title that could refer to MANY Truffaut films); Clive Barker’s compromised horror epic “Nightbreed”; and the second episode of “Alfred Hitchcock Presents”.  Follow the link.

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

At his site, Liedke reviewed February releases “Heart Eyes” and “Captain America: Brave New World.” He also wrote about the Academy Award nominated animated features and documentaries.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Ruth over at FlixChatter reviewed two this year’s Oscar Best Picture nominee ANORA, and newly released SUPERBOYS OF MALEGAON. She also wrote a tribute to the late GENE HACKMAN, which included 10 favorite performances of one of cinema’s greats. As this year’s Oscars happens during the start of the month, Ruth combines her 2025 OSCAR Predictions + her FEBRUARY Viewing Recap. 

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul McGuire Grimes has reviews to share of three new movies!

Follow Paul on Social Media!

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD 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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 129

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 Unbreakable Monkey

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

After taking a few weeks off to enjoy the February chill, The MN Movie Man is playing catch-up with reviews!  There’s something for every genre fan this week — take your pick!  Check out reviews for The Monkey, Cleaner, Liza: A Truy Terrific Absolutely True Story, Millers in Marriage, Anacoreta, Ex-Husbands, Grand Theft Hamlet, Inhabitants, The Gorge, Suze, Armand, Paddington in Peru, The Dead Thing, The Quiet Ones, & Bonus Track.  (There is a 10-star review in this batch…can you find it?)

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

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 also has reviews for the following classic movies:

Lastly, he has a few updated lists in their movie rankings section, including the best Miles Teller movies ranked, the best Anya Taylor-Joy movies ranked, and every Marvel MCU movie ranked from worst to best.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

Brian reviewed the new releases The Monkey and Cleaner, as well as last year’s Vermiglio.

For his Patreon subscribers, he wrote a reader-commissioned piece about Pedro Almodóvar’s All About My Mother (1999) for his essay series, The Definitives.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed The Monkey.

Jay Gabler – Duluth News Tribune

For the Duluth News Tribune, Jay wrote a guide to this year’s Oscar nominees for Best Picture. He also reported on a movie called Murder at the Lighthouse, filmed in northeastern Minnesota and premiering February 23 on Lifetime.

Looking to the future — in two senses — he wrote a feature about a planned movie called The 7th, which may become the first $10+ million production in northern Minnesota since 2005’s North Country.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, you can find several first reactions to new releases, as well as a brand-new Unboxing Video for Severin’s 4k release of 2020 Texas Gladiators! Look for a Physical Media Review of the set soon!

Unboxing Severin’s 2020 Texas Gladiators (1983)

Kyle & GOAT Film Reviews were also featured in Rent.com this week! You can find more info here: Featured in Rent.com!

New Episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: 3:10 to Yuma (1957)

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s “Picturegoer” newsletter, Pamela Anderson as “The Last Showgirl”; the Monty Python gang’s first foray into feature filmmaking, “And Now for Something Completely Different”; Michael Rennie arrives for “The Day the Earth Stood Still”; Samuel L. Jackson and Jurnee Smollett visit “Eve’s Bayou”; Francis Coppola’s epic passion project “One from the Heart”; and the first volume of Simon Callow’s magisterial Orson Welles biography.  Follow the link.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Ruth over at FlixChatter reviewed two new releases: 

Paddington in Peru: The friendliest talking bear gets a bit lost in the wieldy jungle adventure but still packs a lot of charm

AppleTV+’s The Gorge: This amusingly romantic creature feature can’t sustain the intense build-up

In light of recent news, longtime Bond fan Ruth wrote about (lamented on) the fate of the British spy franchise: 

Shaken AND stirred! Musings on Amazon MGM Studios taking creative control of the JAMES BOND franchise from the Broccolis family business.

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul is celebrating the 50th Anniversary of “Saturday Night Live” Here, he looks back at his interviews with current and past cast members of the legendary late night sketch comedy series.

Looking Back at SNL – Paul Interviews the Cast of Saturday Night Live

Follow Paul on Social Media!

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD 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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 126

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: That Dog Man is giving me Heart Eyes

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

Last week, The MN Movie Man mentioned that January was a quieter month…well, the seven reviews published this week would beg to differ.  Check out his early look at the new Valentine’s Day slasher Heart Eyes as well as Companion, You’re Cordially Invited, Dark Match, Rose, Green and Gold, and Time Passages.

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

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 also has reviews for the following classic movies:

Lastly, in their movie rankings section, he has updated the following lists:

The Best Movies of 2021

Every Marvel MCU Movie Ranked

The Best Movies of 2018

The Best Movies of 2019

The Best Movies of 2020

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

Brian reviewed the new releases Presence, Companion, and You’re Cordially Invited.

For his Patreon subscribers, he began a “Filmmaker in Focus” series about Jia Zhangke, starting with an essay in The Definitives about Xiao Wu (1997).

Also, Brian appeared on KARE 11 Saturday to recommend Presence, All We Imagine as Light, and A Different Man.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter previewed his 25 Most Anticipated Films of 2025.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews site, you can find a few of my end-of-year lists:

Kyle’s Top Ten Films of 2024!

Kyle’s Most Anticipated Movies of 2025!

You can also find early reviews of several new releases!

[Early Review] You’re Cordially Invited (2025)

[Early Review] Dog Man (2025)

[Early Review] Heart Eyes (2025)

Dog Man is now in theaters, while You’re Cordially Invited is streaming on Prime Video. Heart Eyes hits theaters this Friday!

New Episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: The Girl with the Needle (2024)

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

The third year of the “Picturegoer” newsletter kicks off with reviews of the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown”; Michael Caine as the womanizing “Alfie”; the stop motion adventure “Coraline”; Michael York and Jenny Agutter in a dystopian in “Logan’s Run”; Will Forte as “Macgruber”; and the pilot episode of “Alfred Hitchcock Presents”.  Follow the link.

Chaz Kangas – Bring Me the News

Hot off the presses, here’s my interview with Severin’s David Gregory on the restoration and recent re-release of Russ Meyer’s ‘Vixen’ trilogy!

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Ruth over at FlixChatter posted a classic review of The Elephant Man (1980) – An appreciation for David Lynch’s heartbreaking and hauntingly beautiful biographical drama.

She also reviewed an Indian drama currently playing in select theaters, All We Imagine as Light (2024) – Payal Kapadia’s understated tribute to the working-class women of Mumbai.

Ruth also posted FlixChatter’s JANUARY 2025 Viewing Recap + Movie of the Month, including mini-reviews of:

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl | Kneecap | My Old Ass | Jamie Fox: What Had Happened Was | Back in Action | In the Land of Saints and Sinners | Goodrich

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD 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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 125

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 Presence of my Inheritance makes me a Flight Risk

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

During this quieter January, The MN Movie Man thinks it’s a great time to catch up on the recent Oscar nominees – any of the ten Best Picture candidates are worth your time!

Two new reviews for this week: Steven Soderbergh’s Presence (which I’ve been waiting to tell you about since LAST January when I saw it at Sundance) and a film heavily influenced by Soderbergh, the spy thriller Inheritance.

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

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 also has reviews for the following classic movies:

Lastly, in their movie rankings section, he has updated the following lists:

The Best Movies of 2012

Every Sean Baker Movie Ranked

The Best Willem Dafoe Movies

The Best Movies of 2011

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

Brian reviewed Neil Burger’s new thriller Inheritance.

For his Patreon subscribers, he reviewed All We Imagine as Light.

Also, check out Brian’s list of the Top 10 Films of 2024.

Hunter Friesen (The Cinema Dispatch)

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter broke down the winners and losers from the 2025 Oscar nominations.

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter: Clint Eastwood’s latest, the courtroom drama “Juror #2”; the Three Stooges are “Punch Drunks”; Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck on a “Roman Holiday”; Chevy Chase and Dan Aykroyd become the Hope and Crosby of the ’80s with “Spies Like Us”; Fred and Ginger in “Top Hat”; and Sam Wasson’s latest, the Francis Ford Coppola story “The Path to Paradise”.  Follow the link.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Ruth over at FlixChatter reviewed two world cinema films: 

I’m Still Here.- Walter Salles’ Brazilian humanist drama is a reflection of resilience and not letting tragedy define them

Lost Ladies (Laapataa Ladies) – Kiran Rao’s Bollywood’s satirical drama takes a jab at the patriarchy with a charming, sharp-witted story about a bridal mix-up

She also posted her musings on 2025 Oscar Nominations – the egregious snubs + enchanting surprises

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul McGuire Grimes is covering the Oscars!

The 97th Academy Awards – The Nominations

Hear Paul’s hot takes on this year’s Oscar nominations on My Talk 107.1NICKEL BOYS Review

And follow Paul on Instagram / Letterboxd / BluSky / TikTok / YouTube

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Oscar Thoughts

Film Reviews

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Latest 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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 124

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 Wolf Man is Back in Action

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

Now that we’re halfway through January, The MN Movie Man has finished his year-end wrap up 🙂  Check out the Best, the Worst, and the Special Mentions here!

A variety of new reviews arrived this week as well: Wolf Man, Back in Action, Night Call, Vermiglio, Alarum, & Wish You Were Here.

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

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 also has reviews for the following classic movies:

Lastly, in their movie rankings section, he has updated lists for the best movies starring Adam Driver, the best movies starring Timothée Chalamet, and the best movies released in 2013.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

Brian reviewed the Belgian thriller Night Call, the docu-style horror movie It Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This, and the new remake Wolf Man.

Hunter Friesen (The Cinema Dispatch)

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Wolf Man.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

This week, you can find a review for the first major horror release of 2025, Wolf Man!

New Episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: Red Rooms (2023)

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Movie Man Eric Houston looks back at the career of the great David Lynch.

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, Barry Jenkins takes a swing at a “Lion King” prequel with “Mufasa”; Edward G. Robinson tries to enter high society in “The Little Giant”; Albert Brooks and Julie Hagerty get “Lost in America”; Tyrone Power leaves “The Mark of Zorro”; James Cameron works out his own marital woes in “True Lies”; and the first volume of “Full Metal Alchemist”.  Follow the link: https://picturegoer.substack.com/p/picturegoer-vol-2-issue-51-mufasa

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

Catherine paired the 2023 detective/dark comedy show “Poker Face” with twice-baked potatoes on Veg Out. Plus, she published two new reviews on The Feed: “One of Them Days” and “September 5.” She also continued her FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on a couple 2024 releases and published a new Letterboxd list in honor of the late, great David Lynch.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

FlixChatter Review: The Wild Robot (2024) – A visually stunning animated tale filled with warmth as a robot discovers motherhood

FlixChatter’s 15 Most Anticipated 2025 Movies – 2025’s lineup is already brimming with exciting new projects

FlixChatter’s Top 10 Films of 2024 + 20 Honorable Mentions

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

It’s a new year and Paul is here with reviews of a few new movies hitting theaters and streaming

The Room Next Door

September 5

Unstoppable

Smile 2 – Now on 4K

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

New Episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: Red Rooms (2023)

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