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.

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 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.

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 HelpThe Rip, and Mercy.

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.

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

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.

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 TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

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

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

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Film Reviews:


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 173

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.

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.

The MN Movie Man has just returned from Las Vegas, where he sought out every movie-themed slot machine to play (pro-tip: go for the Willy Wonka one for max enjoyment) and caught the stunning new release of The Wizard of Oz at Sphere.

Despite much internal struggle, he’s finalized his annual wrap-up of 2025 with his list of the Best, Worst, and Surprises of the year.

2026 is off to a smashing start at his site, and if you’ve been waiting to catch up — now is the time. In addition to new reviews of The RipPrimate, and People We Meet on Vacation, you can plan your next binge with reviews of Season 2 of HBO’s blockbuster hit The Pitt and the new Netflix mystery His & Hers. A number of new ‘old’ reviews will be coming in the next week, and if you haven’t yet signed up to receive notifications, you can do that here!

Over at  Loud and Clear Reviews, check out his review of Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials as well as Sleepwalker.

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

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:

Matt took a look at two crime films this week: Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s Netflix release, as well as a Belgian film from 2024 that just dropped onto VOD:

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

Brian also appeared on “Gorman in the Morning” on KQRS (92.5 FM) to discuss several new releases in theaters right now.

On the latest episode of the streaming show The CineFiles, Brian and co-hosts Chris Hrapsky and Jamie Rogers discuss No Other ChoiceIs This Thing On?and 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple.

Finally, on Brian’s Patreon, he posted a new entry in his essay series, The Definitives, about The Battle of Algiers (1966).

Over at Dallas Goes to the Movies this week, Dallas has three new movie reviews:

There are also two new video reviews for you to enjoy!

Looking forward to a great 2026 at the movies!

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Dead Man’s Wire, and The Rip.

Over on GOAT Film Reviews, you can find reviews for two new releases:

You can also find a new Dispatch, another set of mini-reviews for Reflection in a Dead Diamond, Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere, Predator: Killer of Killers, The Plague, and The Luckiest Man in America: Dispatches from 2025!

If you missed my Top Ten Films of 2025 or my Most Anticipated Films of 2026, you can find those as well!

Two new “issues” of the Picturegoer newsletter this week!  Issue 45 covers “28 Years Later”, “Dumb and Dumber”, “It’s Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown”, “Love in the Afternoon” and “Stir Crazy”; issue 46 covers “The Bone Temple”, “The Blue Angel”, “Chi-Raq”, “The Mouse That Roared” and “Spaceballs”.  Follow the links!

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple and presents his FINAL 2026 Oscar Nomination Predictions before Thursday’s big announcement. 

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

Catherine has one new review on The Feed: “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple.” Additionally, she appeared on The Revisionist’s Almanac podcast for a special 2025 Year-End Collaboration.

At his site, Liedke has been busy reviewing award contenders and other movies from the film fest circuit. Recently, he’s reviewed “Arco,” “Die My Love,” “Frankenstein,” “Hamnet,” “Hedda,” “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” “Jay Kelly,” “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” “Marty Supreme,” “No Other Choice,” “Nouvelle Vague,” “Rental Family,” “Rosemead,” “The Secret Agent,” “Sentimental Value,” “Song Sung Blue,” “The Testament of Ann Lee,” “Train Dreams” and “Wake Up Dead Man.”

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews: 

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Podcast Reviews:


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 172

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.

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 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 updated his ranking of Edgar Wright’s movies following the release of The Running Man and his ranking of Avatar movies following the release of Fire and Ash. Lastly, he listed the 50 best movies of 2025

Matt kicked off 2026 with both his annual Year in Review, discussing some of his favorite theatrical experiences, as well as a Newsletter where he goes into detail on three recent film adaptations of Donald E. Westlake novels (Play DirtyThe Actor, and No Other Choice)

Additionally, he knocked out a pair of reviews for two indie crime films that had been kicking around the festival circuit:

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

Brian also appeared as a guest on two podcasts: First, he discussed Rental Family with Dr. Marcia Sirota on the Reel Mental podcast. Then, he appeared on the Movie of the Year podcast to discuss Ken Russell’s The Devils (1971).

For the streaming show The CineFiles, Brian and co-hosts Chris Hrapsky and Jamie Rogers shared their Top 10 Movies of 2025.

On January 10, Brian returned to KARE 11 Saturday to discuss two new releases in theaters: Is This Thing On? and Father Mother Sister Brother.

On Brian’s Patreon, he posted the following:

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed The Chronology of Water. He also published his Top 10 Films of 2025 at the Eden Prairie Local News and the Woodbury News Net.

For The Tangential, Jay reviewed Sentimental Value and Train Dreams. And then at the Duluth News Tribune, he reviewed Marty Supreme and The Hockey Mom’s Revenge.

Better late than never.  Over on The Cinema Recall podcast. It’s The Vern’s Top 10 Movies of 2025 and his 5 worst.

In this week’s “Picturegoer” newsletter, Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried in “The Housemaid”; the horror anthology “Dr. Terror’s House of Horrors”; David Bowie in Jim Henson’s “Labyrinth”; James Cagney and Olivia de Havilland in “The Strawberry Blonde”; the silent classic “Waxworks”; and Peter Biskind’s Warren Beatty biography “Star”.  Follow the link.

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews Song Sung Blue and announces his picks for the Top 10 TV Series of 2025 and his Most Anticipated Films of 2026!

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

Catherine shared her Best of 2025 lists: Movies Part One | Movies Part Two | Television

You can also check out her Letterboxd year in review. She watched nearly 500 films!

She finally finished a years-long project of adding the nearly 9,000 films she’s seen to genre listscentury listsdecade lists, and year lists.

Additionally, Catherine continued this year’s FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on some notable 2025 releases, including “Deaf President Now,” “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” and more. Her Wayback Wednesday series returned last week with a look back at 1926.

Paul McGuire Grimes is back with some new interviews, interviews, and media appearances this week!

Jon Bernthal & Tessa Thompson Interview – HIS & HERS

THE HOUSEMAID – review

Catch Me If You Can & Minority Report – 4K Reviews

A Spotlight on Rob Reiner – My Weekly Patreon Newsletter

The 2025 Actor Awards The Nominees Are… – Patreon

One Battle After Another – Oscar Frontrunner – My rundown of the CCA and MNFCA Winners – Patreon

Film Reviews:

End of Year:

Film Reviews: 

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 171

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.

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 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 updated his rankings of Noah Baumbach’s best movies following the release of Jay Kelly and Paul Mescal’s best movies following the release of Hamnet, and ranked every Knives Out movie from worst to best.

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed:

In addition, he posted his Top 10 Films of 2025 list.

Brian also appeared on the latest episode of The CineFiles, discussing Marty SupremeElla McCay, and the Warner Bros. acquisition drama.

On Brian’s Patreon, he shared a series of year-end lists with his subscribers, including the Top 25 Films of 2025, Brian’s “Favorite Things” (a list of the year’s best performances, technical craft, genre entries, etc.), the Top 25 Discs of 2025, and the Top 10 Movie-Related Books of 2025.

I can’t believe it’s already the end of the year, but that means I have basically wrapped up my watching of 2025 movies.

I have two new things to read on my website this week:

1. My third and final FYC Cinema Catch-up Corner is here. 

2. Some of those movies might have even made my Top Ten Movies of 2025.

I also put up my Avatar: Fire and Ash on all my social pages!

After watching over one hundred films throughout the year, Hunter finally unveiled his Top 10 of 2025. He also updated his Oscar predictions.

For The Tangential, Jay reviewed Hamnet.

Over at GOAT Film Reviews, we have several new releases and awards contenders, including:

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews James Cameron’s epic threequel, Avatar: Fire & Ash, and at last, presents his Top 10 Films of 2025!

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

Catherine has a new December release review compilation on The Feed that covers “The Testament of Ann Lee,” “Is This Thing On,” “The Housemaid,” “Marty Supreme,” and “Goodbye June.”

She also continued this year’s FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on some notable 2025 releases, including “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere,” “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues,” “28 Years Later,” and more.

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

Paul is back with some new reviews and media appearances this week:

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

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray UHD Reviews: 


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 170

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.

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.

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the new Silent Night, Deadly Night. He also reviewed Sirāt exclusively for his Patreon subscribers.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Song Sung Blue. His review for Marty Supreme was published at the Eden Prairie Local News and the Woodbury News Net.

For the Duluth News Tribune, Jay reviewed Stone Creek Killer (a movie filmed on the Iron Range) and rounded up some classic holiday movies returning to Duluth theaters this month.

For The Tangential, Jay reviewed Little Trouble Girls.

This week, there are reviews for two new and upcoming releases:

In addition, the new Benoit Blanc mystery, Wake Up Dead Man, has hit Netflix. Check out this early review from its theatrical release.

  • This week on Random Thoughts of a Movie Insomniac, Jason “The Vern” Hemming reviews these five movies: Hamnet, It Was Just an Accident, The Smashing Machine, Eternity, and Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair.
  • We are two episodes in our series on Brian De Palma for De Palma December with Body Double and Dressed to Kill. More to come soon
  • I was a recent guest on The St. Paul Filmcast with fellow MNFCA member Nick Paldodichuck.
  • Over on Rabbit Hole Podcasts, I joined host Jason Soto to discuss the controversial movie, Kids from 1995.

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews Ella McCay, The Secret Agent, and gives his December Nomination Predictions for the 99th Oscars!

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

Catherine continued this year’s FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on movies including “Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery,” “The Secret Agent,” “Palestine 36,” and more.

She also participated in a “Some Kind of December” series, with her post highlighting the beloved 2006 Christmas romcom “The Holiday.”

Erik published a 50 year retrospective on the Best Picture nominees from 1975, with reviews for “Dog Day Afternoon,” “Barry Lyndon,” “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” “Jaws,” and “Nashville.”

I’d like to share news that I’ve exceeded my #52FilmsByWomen challenge goal with 59 films #directedbywomen so far this year, though still short of last year’s tally of 63. I logged them on this Letterboxd list.

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Film Reviews:

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 169

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.

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.

Matt has assembled a Top 10 Hardboiled Crime List for 2025. A selection of his favorite and somewhat underseen hustles, heists, and hits for the year.

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed Marty Supreme and 100 Nights of Hero. And he reviewed No Other Choice exclusively for his Patreon subscribers.

Brian also made a few appearances on local radio, TV, and streaming platforms this week:

Not a whole lot to report this week, but I do want to share my thoughts on Marty Supreme now that the embargo has been lifted.

You can read my thoughts here.

Or watch them here.

Plenty more end-of-year lists and FYC coverage to come before year’s end, so keep an eye out!

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Marty Supreme, Fackham Hall, and La Grazia. His review for Jay Kelly was published in the Eden Prairie Local News and Woodbury News Net.

He also posted his predictions for who will be nominated for the 83rd Golden Globe Awards.

Over at JakobTalksFilm, it’s a Netflix Review Round-Up with takes on Clint Bentley’s “Train Dreams”, Rian Johnson’s third Knives Out entry “Wake Up Dead Man”, Noah Baumbach’s “Jay Kelly”, and Shih-Ching Tsou’s directorial debut “Left-Handed Girl”!

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd! @jakobkolness

Catherine has one new review on The Feed“Loot” (Season 3).

She also continued this year’s FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on movies including “Hamnet,” “All That’s Left of You,” “No Other Choice,” and more.

She also published a FYC Friday 2025 list on Letterboxd to track all of the movies she’s covered so far this awards season.

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

Paul is back with some new reviews and interviews as we are fully into the end-of-the-year award season!

Follow Paul on Social Media @PAULSMOVIETRIP, Letterboxd, and Patreon

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 168

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.

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

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

He also reviewed The Testament of Ann Lee exclusively for his Patreon subscribers.

A few new posts are up over at Dallas Goes to the Movies.

  • Eternity Review
  • FYC Coverage Part 2 – Includes reviews for It Was Just an Accident, Sentimental Value, The Mastermind, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, and more!

There are also two new reviews up over on my Instagram and YouTube:

Thanks for reading and watching!

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Eternity and updated his Oscar predictions.

He also republished his TIFF review for Hamnet at the Eden Prairie Local News and Woodbury News Net.

Over at GOAT Film Reviews, we have three new reviews of recent and upcoming releases!

A Tale of Two Mommies Scorned – Written reviews of Die My Love and If I Had Legs I’d Kick You

Random Thoughts of a Movie Insomniac – Video review for Sentimental Value, Alpha, After the Hunt, Anemone, and Kiss of the Spider Woman

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob takes a look ahead at everyone’s favorite problematic awards show! It’s time for the final 83rd Golden Globe Awards Nomination Predictions!

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

Catherine has three new reviews on The Feed: “Hamnet,” “Eternity,” and “Wake Up Dead Man.”

She also continued this year’s FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on movies, including “It Was Just an Accident,” “Sentimental Value,” and more.

To celebrate the release of “Hamnet,” she published a Shakespeare on film list. Additionally, she published two new director ranking lists on LetterboxdChloé Zhao and Rian Johnson.

Erik published one review this week, covering  “Wicked: For Good” (2025).

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

Paul McGuire Grimes is back with new reviews!

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

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 167

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.

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 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:

Matt writes about Christopher McQuarrie’s directorial debut, Way of the Gun, which screens at The Trylon this weekend.

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

He reviewed Is This Thing On? exclusively for his Patreon subscribers as well.

Brian also appeared on the latest episode of The CineFiles on KARE 11+, where the team discussed The Running ManEternity, and Nouvelle Vague.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Wicked: For Good, Jay Kelly, and Train Dreams.

He also republished his TIFF review for Rental Family at the Eden Prairie Local News and Woodbury News Net.

For the Duluth News Tribune, Jay reviewed It Was Just an Accident and The Mastermind. I also wrote about Bella, a beauty pageant thriller to be filmed in Duluth, and Girl Group, a forthcoming Rebel Wilson movie featuring a Duluth actor.

For The Tangential, Jay reviewed the 2025 British Arrows.

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews site, you can find several new reviews this week, including:

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews the highly anticipated Wicked: For Good!

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

Catherine has two new reviews on The Feed: “Wicked: For Good” and “Jay Kelly.” She also continued this year’s FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on movies including “Bob Trevino Likes It,” “One Battle After Another,” “Superman,” and more.

To celebrate “Wicked: For Good” being the 350th musical she’s seen, she published her musicals ranking list. Additionally, she published two new director ranking lists on LetterboxdNoah Baumbach and Jon M. Chu.

Erik published one review this week, covering “Death by Lightning” (2025).

  • Lost & Found in Cleveland – It takes a bit of time to warm up, but it’s a charming holiday film that brings a tinge of nostalgia
  • RENTAL FAMILY (2025) – Brendan Fraser is marvelous in a touching & funny fish-out-of-water tale in modern Japan
  • WICKED: FOR GOOD (2025) – Despite strong performances from Erivo & Grande, the whole story would have been much better off as just one movie

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

Paul is back with some fun new reviews and interviews:

Paul’s Streaming Newsletter – Movie Musicals – Patreon Exclusive!

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

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 166

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.

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.

Matt did a piece for Perisphere (the Trylon’s Blog) for their upcoming screening of The Mysteries of Chess Boxing. He also extols the virtues of Joseph Kuo’s no frills approach to kung-fu cinema. Written in anticipation of The Trylon’s upcoming kung-fu double feature!

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed The Running Man.

He also reviewed Sentimental Value exclusively for his Patreon subscribers.

A few things to read and watch from these past few weeks:

Part 1 of my FYC coverage is HERE with short reviews for 8 movies, including Die My Love, Train Dreams, Blue Moon, Baltimorons, and more!

I also have a longer review for Is This Thing On?

I know it’s been a few weeks since Twin Cities Film Fest wrapped, but I finally have my recap on the fest and some thoughts on movies I saw there.

Lastly, here is a short video review of The Running Man

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed The Running Man.

Over on the website, Jason “The Vern” Hemming has three written reviews of:

Over on YouTube, he does a video review of Nouvelle Vague.

In this week’s “Picturegoer”, thoughts on “Ballerina”, “Deep Cover”, “The Howling”, “The Proposition,” and “Topper”.  Follow the link.

 Over at JakobTalksFilm, we take a break from reviews to go over some November Oscar Nomination Predictions!

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

Catherine has two new reviews on The Feed: “Palm Royale” (Season Two) and “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t.” She also continued this year’s FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on movies including “Jay Kelly,” “The Testament of Ann Lee,” “100 Nights of Hero,” and more. Additionally, she published a new director ranking list on LetterboxdEdgar Wright.

Erik published two film reviews this week:

“Salaam Bombay!” (1988): Realism in poverty – The Oracle

“Mississippi Masala” (1991): Love across cultures – The Oracle

Guest Review: CHRISTY (2025) – Sydney Sweeney knocks it out of the park in a boxing biopic that presents a realistic depiction of abuse

It Was Just an Accident (2025) – Jafar Panahi weaves a gripping tale of reckoning with collective trauma, culminating in a breathtaking final shot

BLUE EYED GIRL (2025) Review + Q&A with writer & star Marisa Coughlan on filming in Minnesota + working with Beau Bridges

SENTIMENTAL VALUE (2025) – A profoundly moving story about familial trauma and the restorative nature of art

THE RUNNING MAN (2025) special reviews from two points of view: One has read Stephen King’s novel & seen the 1987 movie, while the other has not

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

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews

Reviews for The Testament of Ann Lee and Predator: Badlands.


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 165

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.

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

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

Additionally, Brian added a new film to his essay series, The Definitives: Stanley Donen’s Charade (1963), starring Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant.

Brian also appeared on the latest episode of The CineFiles to discuss BugoniaHedda, the place of AI in cinema, and more.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Nuremberg, Die My Love, Predator: Badlands, and Sentimental Value. His review for Nuremberg can also be read at the Eden Prairie Local News and Woodbury News Net.

For the Duluth News Tribune, I reviewed Die My Love.

For The Tangential, I reviewed The French Italian, the third season of Star Wars: VisionsBallad of a Small PlayerI Wish You All the Best, and The Legend of Ochi.

This week, the reviews for Twin Cities Film Festival continue to drop, with a review of the new release, Christy!

[TCFF2025] Christy (2025)

You can find more TCFF reviews and the complete 31 Days of Horror collection over at GOAT Film Review

Barrett’s review of Predator: Badlands.

Two new issues of the “Picturegoer” newsletter this week. Issue #37 covers Bradley Cooper’s “Is This Thing On?”, “Cujo”, “Juice”, “Outrage”, and “Training Day.” Issue #37

Issue #38 covers “The Smashing Machine”, “Downhill Racer”, “Life and Death of Colonel Blimp”, “Men in Black” (no, not that one), and “Wings”. Issue #38

Over at JakobTalksFilm, Jakob reviews the Sydney Sweeney-starring Christy Martin biopic “Christy”, a pair of new Netflix titles, Richard Linklater’s “Nouvelle Vague,” and the animated fantasy “In Your Dreams”, as well as a review for Season 2 of the Apple series “Palm Royale”!

Be sure to follow him on TwitterBluSky, and Letterboxd!

Catherine has two new posts on The Feed: a recap of the 2025 Twin Cities Film Fest and capsule reviews of 15 fall 2025 releases, including “Nouvelle Vague,” “The Morning Show” (Season Four), and “Predator: Badlands.”

She also continued this year’s FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on movies including “Is This Thing On,” “Eddington,” “Went Up the Hill,” and more.

On top of all that, she published several new director ranking lists on Letterboxd, including Guillermo del Toro and Nia DaCosta.

Erik published one review this week, covering “Rental Family” (2025) at TCFF 16.

Brad’s review of Frankenstein.

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

It’s that busy time of year, and Paul McGuire Grimes is here for some weekly reviews, interviews, and more!

FRANKENSTEIN Review

A HOUSE OF DYNAMITE Review

CHRISTY Review

Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson Interview – DOWN CEMETERY ROAD

Meg Hafdahl and Kelly Florence Interview for their new book, “The Science of Alfred Hitchcock.”

THE NAKED GUN (2025) – Blu-Ray Review

Paul’s Weekly Patreon Newsletter – Buzzy Movies

As always, you can find Paul on social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP, on Letterboxd, and Patreon.

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews


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