Category: Mark McPherson

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. 138

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: Can Ochi and The Accountant survive Until Dawn?

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:

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed The Accountant 2, Havoc, and April. He believes the latter title is one of the best films of this year and the decade.

Jay Gabler – Duluth News Tribune

For The Tangential, Jay reviewed the new season of Andor.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Over at GOAT Film Reviews, you can find reviews of several new, recent, and upcoming releases, including:

These appear along with several other reviews from the recent Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival, or MSPIFF.

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, you can find an Unboxing for the recent Kino Lorber Blu-Ray Collection of The Classic Ghosts, a 1970s television anthology series of gothic horror films featuring notable stars like Susan Sarandon and Vincent Gardenia.

New Episode of Kyle & Nick on Film: Memories of Murder (2003).

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners”; Lily Tomlin and Bette Midler co-star with Lily Tomlin and Bette Midler in “Big Business”; Matt Damon and Ben Affleck win the Hollywood lottery with “Good Will Hunting”; Sydney Greenstreet and Peter Lorre get bumped up to star billing in “The Mask of Dimitrios”; the silent Western “Riders of the Purple Sage”; and Larry McMurtry’s “Lonesome Dove” sequel “Streets of Laredo”. 

Follow the link: https://picturegoer.substack.com/p/picturegoer-vol-3-issue-12-sinners

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

Catherine has two new reviews on The Feed: “The Shrouds” and “The Legend of Ochi.”

She also did a first-time viewing marathon of the “Final Destination” movies and published a new auteur list on Letterboxd: The Films of David Cronenberg.

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik wrote one review this week, covering this year’s Razzie winner for Worst Picture.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Ruth reviewed The Legend of Ochi: A24’s first family-friendly movie brings a sense of awe and wonder to a familiar creature feature, and posted about Portugal in the Movies/TV: Films + series set in Lisbon, Algarve, and the Portuguese Riviera.

She will be going on a 10-day holiday to Portugal and taking a blog break during that time.

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Check out the latest from Paul McGuire Grimes!

The Accountant 2 review

Twin Cities Live 4/18 – Interviews for The Wedding Banquet, MobLand, and Your Friends & Neighbors

Paul filled in and was co-hosting on My Talk 107.1 on 4/24 and 4/25 on The Bradley & Dawn Show: Listen Here!

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 Warfare and The Shrouds.

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. 137

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: Sinners cloaked in Shrouds at The Wedding Banquet

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 also reviewed the following David Cronenberg movies in anticipation of The Shrouds:

Matt Clark – Kino Ventura

The second part of Matt’s MSPIFF coverage features some notable Cannes selections and the best dinner he had at the fest!

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed Sinners, The Shrouds, and The Wedding Banquet.

Brian also appeared on KARE 11 on Saturday, April 19, to talk about Black Bag, Sinners, and Friendship.

For his Patreon subscribers, Brian posted a review of Jia Zhangke’s Caught by the Tides.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Sinners and The Wedding Banquet. He also provided a recap of his time at the 2025 Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

Over at GOAT Film Reviews, you can find new reviews for several recent releases, including Sinners, the new genre film from Ryan Coogler and one of the best films of the year thus far!

More reviews and coverage from MSPIFF continue to drop into this week as well, so keep an eye out for more at GOAT Film Reviews!

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

Catherine has a new review on The Feed of “A Minecraft Movie.”

She also published a Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival recap, a moviegoing PSA, and a new list in honor of “Sinners,” The Films of Ryan Coogler.

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik wrote about three different events at MSPIFF44 this week:

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul McGuire Grimes has some fun new reviews and interviews to share!

And you can follow Paul 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

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. 136

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 Amateur is going to Sacramento

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 also has reviews for the following classic movies:

Lastly, he ranked the best A24 horror movies of all time and the best animated movies of the 2020s so far.

Matt Clark – Kino Ventura

Part one of Matt’s MSPIFF coverage!

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed The Amateur, Drop, and Warfare.

Writing from the MSPIFF44, Brian posted his second dispatch, including reviews of Quisling: The Final Days and LUZ.

In his essay series The Definitives, he published a new essay about The Spirit of the Beehive (1973).

For his Patreon subscribers, Brian posted an early review of A24’s Friendship.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed The Ballad of Wallis Island and The Amateur.

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

The Vern reviews four features from the Minneapolis St Paul International Film Festival ( MSPIFF):

Chaz Kangas – Bring Me the News

With WWE Raw at the Target Center last Monday, I got to speak with WWE Superstar and horror enthusiast Otis about his love for ‘Halloween 2‘

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik has three new film reviews for this week.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Ruth from FlixChatter has been busy covering MSPIFF 2025. Here are her film festival coverage links:

She also reviewed the newly released thriller:

THE AMATEUR: Rami Malek effectively leads a vengeance thriller where the nerdy underdog gets the last laugh

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

It’s been a big week here in Minnesota as we welcome all the excitement around the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival. 

Ang Lee Introduction of “Brokeback Mountain” – Paul got to introduce Ang Lee before this very special screening

Plus, Paul has a new review of the cute rom-com A Nice Indian Boy

Follow Paul 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:

St. Paul Filmcast interview with actor Develle Grier.

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. 135

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 Freaky Friend for the Minecraft Movie

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 also has reviews for the following movies released in the last few years:

Lastly, he ranked the best movies of 2025 through the first quarter.

Matt Clark – Kino Ventura

Matt’s March roundup includes chatting with Pat Healy, a 16mm 70s obscurity, and a black & white Italian stunner

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed The Friend, Wake Up, and Freaky Tales.

For the MSPIFF44, Brian wrote an introduction to the festival and his first dispatch, including reviews of Free Leonard Peltier, The Trouble with Jessica, and Misericordia.

For his Patreon subscribers, Brian posted a review of Ash Is Purest White (2018) as part of his “Filmmaker in Focus” series about Jia Zhangke. Wrapping up that series, he also posted a piece about Jia’s work overall. Finally, Brian shared a review of Neon’s new slasher throwback, Hell of a Summer.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed A Minecraft Movie and reposted his review of William Tell from TIFF. He also previewed the films he’ll be seeing at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival and predicted thirty films that will likely appear in the 2025 Cannes Film Festival program.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

On the GOAT Film Reviews Site, you can find a review of the new release, A Minecraft Movie!

You can also find a new unboxing video over on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel. This week, we opened up the Paramount Scares: Volume 2 set which contains four more “classic” horror films from the Paramount lineup, and asked why they included Friday the 13th Part Two but ignored the original!

Kyle is also representing GOAT Film Reviews at MSPIFF this week, so look for coverage of the festival dropping in the coming days.

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Movie Man Eric checks out the John Frankenheimer neo-noir 52 Pick-Up.

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s installment of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, the sports drama “The Fire Inside”; Eddie Murphy in “Beverly Hills Cop”; Andrea Arnold’s raw, heartbreaking “Fish Tank”; the delightful screwball comedy “Midnight”; Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy in “Twice Two”; and the classic “Star Trek” episode “Journey to Babel”.  Follow the link.

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

At his site, Liedke reviewed March releases Novocaine, Mickey 17, Last Breath, Black Bag, Snow White, and A Working Man.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

On FlixChatter, Ruth wrote about her MARCH 2025 Viewing Recap + Mini Reviews of NOSFERATU & BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN + Movie of the Month (hint: it’s Soderbergh’s spy thriller)

She also wrote reviews of two recently-released movies currently in theaters:

The Friend (2025) – Naomi Watts + the Great Dane keep this tale of friendship engaging, though the movie lingers a bit longer than it needs to be

The Penguin Lessons (2025) – Steve Coogan gains a fresh perspective on life thanks to his scene-stealing avian friend

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul has been busy with a ton of new reviews and interviews for this week!

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Essays:

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