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.

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.

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 InstagramLetterboxd, 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:

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 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.

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

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 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 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

Oscar Thoughts

Film Reviews

Film Reviews

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews

Latest 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. 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.

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.

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 ManBack in ActionNight CallVermiglio, Alarum, & Wish You Were Here.

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on InstagramLetterboxd, 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:

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 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.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Wolf Man.

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)

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

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 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.

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

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews

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! 🎬🍿


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 123

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.

After a (brief) winter’s nap, The MN Movie Man is back with a sleigh full of reviews of both new and recent films!

If you still have your Christmas Tree up (he does), sit back, pull up the Yule Log on YouTube and enjoy these late presents: BirdeaterMemoir of a SnailI’m Still HereA Complete UnknownThe BrutalistBabygirlQueerHard TruthsNightbitchSeptember 5The DamnedNosferatuThe Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes MovieBloody Axe WoundMufasa: The Lion KingThe Man in the White Van

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on InstagramLetterboxd, and Facebook for his weekly hot takes 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:

He also has reviews for a couple classic movies:

Lastly, in their movie rankings section, he updated his ranking of every Luca Guadagnino movie and ranked the best movies of 2014.

Brian reviewed the second season of the AppleTV+ series, Severance.

He also wrote a new essay about Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut (1999), exclusively for his Patreon subscribers. Readers can purchase access individually or join Deep Focus Review’s Patron community to access it.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Den of Thieves 2: Pantera.

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, you can find Video Reviews for Daddy’s Head and Conclave:

On the GOAT Film Reviews Website, you can find an Early Review for the 2025 sequel, Den of Thieves 2: Pantera!

New Episodes of Kyle & Nick on Film:

On his newly revamped website, Break Time Reviews, Matt released his Top 10 Movies of 2024. And for FandomWire, he kicked off 2025 with a review of the heist sequel Den of Thieves 2: Pantera.

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, thoughts on the coal-in-your-stocking holiday offering “Red One”; Robert Ryan in Robert Wise’s masterful boxing noir “The Set-Up”; the kung fu classic “The 36th Chamber of Shaolin”; Prince’s befuddling, beautiful vanity project “Under the Cherry Moon”; Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss bicker in “What About Bob”; and a book of George Lucas interviews. 

Follow the link: https://picturegoer.substack.com/p/picturegoer-vol-2-issue-50-red-one

Catherine paired the family-friendly favorite “Happy Feet” with penguin popsicles on Veg Out. Plus, she celebrated Letterboxd’s Year in Review release with a reel highlighting her stats. She also continued her FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on documentaries about three iconic women and other 2024 releases.

Paul has new reviews and interviews for 2025! Plus, a look back at 2024

THE LAST SHOWGIRL review

THE LAST SHOWGIRL interviews with Pamela Anderson, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kiernan Shipka, Brenda Song, and Gia Coppola

SE7EN 4K review

Paul’s Top 10 Movies of 2024

Film Reviews

Film Reviews

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews

New Episodes of Kyle & Nick on Film:

Sing Sing (2023)

The Order (2024)

Over on Cinefied, Tyler wrote about the dystopian game show Beast Games, noting the striking parallels between Survivor and Squid Game, and dived into how these competitions reflect the harsh realities of wealth inequality and human desperation.


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 120

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, they have reviews for the following new releases:

Flow review

The Brutalist review

A Complete Unknown review

Babygirl review

Carry-On review

Small Things Like These review

Nightbitch review

The Seed of the Sacred Fig review

Brian recently reviewed The BrutalistNosferatuThe Room Next Door, and Babygirl.

For his Patreon subscribers, he launched his year-end “My Favorite Things of 2024” series with several lists, including the 25 Best Discs of 2024, the 5 Best Movie-Related Books of 2024, and The Best List—a look at his favorite performances, genre entries, and other categories from the year. Check out his Patreon for more.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Mufasa: The Lion King and Nosferatu. He also updated his Oscar predictions.

This week, Zach brings you capsule reviews of nine new movies (including three hotly-anticipated Christmas Day releases): NOSFERATU, BABYGIRL, A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, THE LAST SHOWGIRL, REBEL RIDGE, HIS THREE DAUGHTERS, THE PIANO LESSON, HARD TRUTHS, and MY OLD ASS.

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, reviews of Jesse Eisenberg’s quietly moving “A Real Pain”; the luminous Carol Kane in Joan Micklin Silver’s masterful “Hester Street”; Heath Ledger’s final role in “The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus”; famous silent film cowboy William S. Hart’s final starring role in “Tumbleweeds”; and one of the perennial holiday favorites, “White Christmas” — PLUS! a bonus piece on the fourth collected volume of Charles Schultz’s “Peanuts” comic strip. 

Follow the link: https://picturegoer.substack.com/p/picturegoer-vol-2-issue-47-a-real

Documentary Review: Music By John Williams (2024) – a heartfelt and delightful tribute to the maestro who has composed the soundtrack of our lives

Trailer Spotlight: James Gunn’s SUPERMAN teaser trailer – a battered superhero, dapper Lex Luthor, Krypto the Superdog + more

FlixChatter Review: NICKEL BOYS (2024) – A unique approach to evocative storytelling that packs an emotional wallop

FlixChatter Review: THE BRUTALIST (2024) – Adrien Brody is intense and heartbreaking in Brady Corbet’s sobering cautionary tale of the elusive American Dream

There is no shortage of movies playing at your local movie theater! Paul has new reviews of the following:

Queer

The Brutalist

Babygirl

Mufasa: The Lion King

Nosferatu

Plus, Paul shared his review and interviews for A Complete Unknown on Twin Cities Live

And over on Fox9 Good, Paul shares his picks for Christmas movies on Hallmark, Netflix, and contemporary classic like The Holiday and The Family Stone

Film Reviews:

Film Reviews

Blu-ray & UHD Reviews

On his website Key Frame Reframe, Tyler offers an in-depth look at his December Oscar Predictions, with contenders for Best Picture hopefuls like Wicked and Conclave, and expert insights into the latest industry buzz.

Meanwhile, over at Cinefied, Tyler examines Maria, highlighting Angelina Jolie’s mesmerizing performance and Pablo Larraín’s intimate portrayal of Maria Callas’ final days.


Tyler also takes a closer look at Mufasa: The Lion King, celebrating its visual splendor and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical magic, while addressing its storytelling shortcomings.


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 119

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.

It’s almost time to unwrap The MN Movie Man‘s Best/Worst of the year, but there’s no peeking until after Christmas!  While you wait, check out reviews for Carry-On and Kraven the Hunter as well as the landing page for all six volumes of the 60+ films he saw at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival.  

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram and Facebook for his weekly hot takes and other updates between newsletters! 

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

Fly Me to the Moon review

Nickel Boys review

Flow review

September 5 review

Saturday Night review

Last Summer review

Brian reviewed A Complete UnknownQueerFlowSeptember 5Nickel Boys, and Kraven the Hunter.

For his Patreon subscribers, he posted two new lengthy AMA responses and wrote about his favorite TV show of 2024. Check out his Patreon.  

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed A Complete Unknown, Kraven the Hunter, and Carry-On.

For the Duluth News Tribune, I reviewed A Complete Unknown and reported on Timothée Chalamet’s visit to a Minneapolis preview screening.

Also for the News Tribune, I reviewed the British Arrows, presented by the Walker Art Center. For The Tangential, I reviewed the new Star Wars show Skeleton Crew

This week, Zach reviews A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, as well as capsule reviews of DIDI, BABES, NIGHTBITCH, THE SACRED OF THE SACRED FIG, MOTHERS’ INSTINCT, QUEER, and A REAL PAIN.

Nominated for Best Animated Film at The Golden Globes and Critics Choice Award.  Flow tells a very beautiful story about animals surviving with no dialogue at all and it is phenomenal.

The Vern is joined again by Cayley of Once Over with Cayley to discuss the 2003 remake of Willard starring Crispin Glover.

The Vern is joined by Becca of Do You Expect Us To Talk to discuss Alfred Hitchcock’s classic, Psycho and even defend the Gus Van Sant remake

 The latest issue of my newsletter, Picturegoer; containing reviews of “Gladiator II”, “A Charlie Brown Christmas”, “Hell’s Hinges”, “Inside Man”, “The Mechanic” and Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None”.

Catherine paired “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” with butter beer ice cream floats on Veg Out. Plus, she has four new reviews on The Feed: “Nickel Boys,” “Queer,” “A Complete Unknown” and “Kraven the Hunter.” The In Memoriam series she hosted wrapped up, and she continued her FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on “Flow,” “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” and more.

Musings on Golden Globes 2025 Nominations – 5 Glaring Snubs + 5 Great Surprises

Double Reviews: Based-on-real-events thrillers THE ORDER + SEPTEMBER 5

A Complete Unknown (2024) review – Timothée Chalamet captures Bob Dylan’s freewheelin’ vibe in James Mangold’s engrossing musical biopic

Here are links for The Digest

Paul has new reviews and interviews to share!

A COMPLETE UNKNOWN review

MARIA review

A COMPLETE UNKNOWN Cast Interviews with Timothee Chalamet, Elle Fanning, Edward Norton, and Monica Barbaro

Twin Cities Live segment with Paul’s interview with Colman Domingo and reviews of Moana 2 and Skeleton Crew

You can follow Paul on social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP and his YouTube channel Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Films

Blu-ray/UHD

Interview with MNFCA member Cat Krummery


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 118

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.

At The MN Movie Man, four new reviews for fans of all genres, from documentary to animated holiday offerings.  Check out reviews for The Invisible RaptorGet AwayThat Christmas, and Freediver

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram and Facebook for his weekly hot takes and other updates between newsletters! 

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

In their classic movie reviews section, they also have pieces for the following films:

Lastly, they updated their Robert Eggers movie ranking to coincide with the upcoming release of Nosferatu.

While he usually delves into older films, Matt has compiled his Best Hardboiled Crime Films list for 2024. He also put this post together as a Letterboxd list so feel free to check it out, like, and comment!

Brian reviewed Hard TruthsThe OrderOh, CanadaNightbitchY2K, and Get Away.

For his Patreon subscribers, he posted an early review of Pedro Almodóvar’s latest, The Room Next Door.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter predicted this year’s Golden Globe Award nominations.

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, there are a few new Video Reviews available!

New episodes of Kyle & Nick on Film!

Catherine paired the holiday classic “A Charlie Brown Christmas” with peanut butter brownies on Veg Out. Plus, she has three new reviews on The Feed: “Unstoppable,” “Y2K” and “Nightbitch.” The In Memoriam series she is hosting is still underway, and she continued her FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on “A Complete Unknown,” “Nosferatu” and more.

November Recap + Movie of the Month + Mini Reviews of American Dreamer (2022) + Hunter Killer (2018)

FlixChatter Review: NIGHTBITCH (2024) – Amy Adams is at her most fearless though the film is more on the tame side

FlixChatter Review: MARIA (2024) – Angelina Jolie is sublime in this stylish but cryptic reimagining of Maria Callas’ last days

Paul has some new reviews this week and interviews this week

THE ORDER review

NIGHTBITCH review

STAR WARS: SKELETON CREW review

THE ORDER Interviews with Jude Law, Jurnee Smollett, Tye Sheridan, Justin Kurzel

Follow Paul on social media: @PAULSMOVIETRIP

Films

Blu-ray/UHD


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 117

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Contributions from members offer diverse insights, covering films like Maria, Moana 2, and Dear Santa. 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 three new reviews this week as he recovers from the post-Thanksgiving movie madness.  Check out the latest, spoiler-free reviews for MariaMoana 2, and the new Lindsay Lohan Netflix Holiday Film, Our Little Secret.

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram and Facebook for his weekly hot takes and other updates between newsletters!

Brian recently reviewed several new releases, including Moana 2MariaMemoir of a SnailThe Piano LessonWicked, and Juror #2.

As part of his essay series, The Definitives, Brian wrote about Bob Fosse’s Cabaret (1972) for his Patreon subscribers. He posted an early review of Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist on Patreon as well.

Finally, Brian appeared on KARE 11 on November 30 to discuss three major movies in theaters over Thanksgiving weekend.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Maria.

For FandomWire, Matt reviewed the new Disney animated musical Moana 2 as well as the upcoming Netflix spy thriller series Black Doves.

Here’s a special introduction that the President of Troma Studios and Creator of the Toxic Avenger, Lloyd Kaufman did for The Main Cinema’s Midnight Mayhem screening of ‘Cannibal! The Musical’ in November as we dedicated the night to celebrating 50 years of Troma. Our next event is December 7 for our Midnight Mayhem holiday show celebrating 40 years of Gremlins!

Catherine paired the beloved Christmas movie “Home Alone” with a holiday leftovers pizza on Veg Out. Plus, she has one new review on The Feed: “Moana 2.” She also kicked off a collaborative In Memoriam series with her post on Shelley Duvall, and she continued her FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on “I Saw the TV Glow,” “Babes” and more.

At his site, Liedke reviewed a number of films released over the last several weeks, including Smile 2, Venom: The Last Dance, Anora, Heretic, A Real Pain, and Gladiator II.

JUROR #2 (2024) review – Clint Eastwood’s engrossing courtroom drama has me feeling torn in all the best ways.

Thanksgiving Special: Musings on the dysfunctional family dramedy HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS (1995) – directed by Jodie Foster

MOANA 2 (2024) review – this frenetically paced sequel is a rehash of the original with less catchy songs

There are so many great movies in theaters and streaming right now. I hope you took advantage over Thanksgiving weekend.  Paul has some new reviews for you:

Beatles ’64 (Disney+)

Moana 2 (in theaters)

Juror #2 (in theaters)

Plus, Paul interviewed Colman Domingo for his new Netflix series “The Madness”: Colman Domingo Interview

Follow Paul on TikTok/Instagram/Threads: @PAULSMOVIETRIP 

Movies

Blu-ray/UHD

Over on Cinefied, Tyler reviewed the Disney Animated sequel Moana 2.


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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 116

The Minnesota Movie Digest, from the Minnesota Film Critics Association, showcases film reviews, essays, and interviews, highlighting latest releases and classic films. Contributions from members offer diverse insights, covering films like Wicked, Gladiator II, and The Piano Lesson. 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 hopes you all had a happy Glicked weekend!  This past week, he featured reviews of Wicked and new Netflix films The Merry Gentlemen and Spellbound.  For action fans, Sylvester Stallone’s action flick Armor is in theaters and on demand.  Finally, it’s not out until January 2025, but an early review of Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl is available!

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram and Facebook for his weekly hot takes and other updates between newsletters!

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

In their classic reviews section, they also have a new review of Inside Llewyn Davis (2013).

Over on the GOAT Film Reviews Website, you can find a new review for The Piano Lesson, now streaming on Netflix!

[Early Review] The Piano Lesson (2024)

On the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, you can find video reviews for the following 2024 films:

My Old Ass (2024): Video Review 

Megalopolis (2024): Video Review 

Monster Summer (2024): Video Review 

New episode for Gladiator II

Zach catches up and shares his thoughts on new and new-ish releases: THE WILD ROBOT, EMILIA PEREZ, CONCLAVE, SATURDAY NIGHT, HERETIC, ANORA, and WICKED.

Review of Wicked: People who are familiar with and love the staged musical will absolutely love this filmed adaptation.  Those unfamiliar with the source material will find it to be just ok to good.

Reservoir Dogs: The Audio Drama: Adapting Quentin Tarantino’s debut film to audio format but with a twist.  All of the iconic male characters( Mr. Pink, Mr. Blonde, Mr White, ect) will be performed by women.

Interview with director and writers of the new “Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead”: Wade Allain-Marcus and Chuck Hayward

Catherine paired the 2022 “Predator” prequel “Prey” with basil mint mushroom jerky on Veg Out. Plus, she has four new reviews on The Feed: “The World According to Allee Willis,” “Blitz,” “Wicked” and “Maria.” She was also added to the roster of female film and TV critics on The Cherry Picks, and she continued her FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on “Love Lies Bleeding,” “The Wild Robot” and more.

Time reviewed Gladiator II and Wicked on WCCO-AM’s “Paul & Jordana” show and The Tom Barnard Show. He also interviewed Danny DeVito about his cameo on Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. He also interviewed the film’s Visual Effects Supervisor Angus Bickerton and Stop-Motion Supervisor Ian Mackinnon. Finally, he spoke to Danny Elfman about the 25th anniversary of the release of Sleepy Hallow and 35th anniversary of Batman.

Small Things Like These (2024) – Cillian Murphy brings a subtle intensity to this slow yet absorbing historical drama

WICKED (2024) – Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande are wicked good in Jon M. Chu’s vivid, dazzling, and surprisingly heartfelt movie musical

And in honor of the star of Small Things Like These, Ruth also wanted to share this oldie-but-goodie tribute post she made for Cillian Murphy – 35 reasons I’m a fan of the Irish actor

It’s a BIG week at the movies whether you’re headed to the theaters or want something that’s streaming:

Paul has reviews of five new movies:

Wicked

Gladiator II

The Piano Lesson

Blitz

Anora

Paul sits down with Michelle Yeoh to talk about all “Wicked”

Plus, here’s his latest segment on “Twin Cities Live” with reviews of “Gladiator II” “Emilia Perez” and “Heretic”

Follow him on TikTok/Instagram/Threads @PAULSMOVIETRIP

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


The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 115

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.

As The MN Movie Man eagerly anticipates the upcoming Glicked weekend (be sure to read his early review of Gladiator II!), he has several films to recommend.

On Netflix, get ready for holiday fun with Hot Frosty and the timely Joy, which explores the birth of IVF. For those missing summer road trips, check out For When You Get Lost – just be prepared for some unresolved daddy/sister/IPA issues along the way.

The true gem of the week is The World According to Allee Willis, a brilliantly crafted documentary that takes you into the life of a legendary songwriter. This one earns The MN Movie Man’s highest recommendation and rating.

Be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram and Facebook for his weekly hot takes and other updates between newsletters

Eli has a few new pieces this week over on Cinephile Corner. In their movie reviews section, they have reviews for a few new releases, including The OrderJuror #2Speak No Evil, and Sometimes I Think About Dying.

Brian reviewed Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II and Andrea Arnold’s latest, Bird.

For his Patreon subscribers, he reviewed Steve McQueen’s Blitz.

Finally, as part of his essay series, The Definitives, he moved his piece about Lars von Trier’s Melancholia (2011) from behind his Patreon paywall to Deep Focus Review. Happy reading!

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter published reviews for Gladiator II and Red One.

Over at GOAT Film Reviews, Kyle has his early reviews of Gladiator II, Emilia Pérez, and Red One. And on the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, you can find First Reactions to a number of new releases and a Video Review for Transformers One (2024).

New episodes for Booger and Emilia Pérez.

Catherine paired the underrated 2016 pulpy neo-noir “The Nice Guys” with apple pie on Veg Out. Plus, she has two new reviews on The Feed: “Gladiator II” and “A Real Pain.” She also helped to organize a collaborative film bro satire post and continued her FYC Friday series with quick thoughts on “Memoirs of a Snail,” “Wicked Little Letters” and more.

A REAL PAIN (2024) – Jesse Eisenberg + Kieran Culkin’s bittersweet buddy dramedy is a real delight

GLADIATOR II (2024) – The cast brings their A-game but this sequel is heavy on CGI spectacle, light on logic + emotional resonance

7 Favorite Scenes from the Roman Epic GLADIATOR – Ridley Scott simply can’t top the original.

Paul has new reviews and interviews to share this week!

WICKED Interview with Michelle Yeoh 

COBRA KAI Interviews with the Creators and Stars Ralph Macchio and Williams Zabka

Plus, Paul has new reviews of:

Gladiator II

Heretic

Follow him on TikTok/Instagram/Threads @PAULSMOVIETRIP

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Over on Cinefied, Tyler wrote reviews for the film Blitz, and the upcoming film Gladiator II.


He also interviewed actress Maddie Hasson, as well as director George Nolfi (and surprise guest Morena Baccarin) for the film Elevation.


On his own website Key Frame Reframe, Tyler published his November Oscar Predictions.


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


The Alliance Lately: Issue No. 114

Welcome to The Alliance Lately, the official newsletter from the Minnesota Film Critics Alliance (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 Alliance Lately 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 Alliance Lately.

There’s something for everyone at The MN Movie Man this week.  In the mood for horror?  Try Heretic.  Eager to start your Oscar watching on the big screen?  Sign up for The Piano Lesson.  Follow-up on last year’s Best Actor winner Cillian Murphy in his new film Small Things Like These.  If you’re simply looking to sit back and enjoy a 90-minue ride, Elevation will do just fine.  Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point is the first holiday title Joe unwrapped this season — did he want to return it?  Finally, those who like uncovering indie dramas might take interest in Okie and for lovers of both documentaries and horror films, the five hour Doc of Chucky will be your friend to the end.

Finally, Joe’s early review of Gladiator II has entered the arena for your entertainment.

Keep following The MN Movie Man’s Instagram and Facebook for weekly hot takes and other updates between newsletters!

Eli has a few new pieces this week over on Cinephile Corner. In their movie reviews section, they have reviews for a few new releases, including Beetlejuice BeetlejuiceHold Your BreathStrange DarlingMEIt’s What’s Inside, and Salem’s Lot. They also have throwback reviews of Doctor Sleep (2019)Ju-on: The Grudge (2002), and Heathers (1989).

And then in their rankings section, they have lists for the best movies of 2015, and rankings of the movies directed by Damien Chazelle and Riley Stearns.

Brian recently reviewed HereticEmilia PérezHere, and All You Need is Blood.

For his Patreon subscribers, he reviewed Anora and wrote about The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) in his essay series, The Definitives.

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Small Things Like These and updated his Oscar predictions.

Over at GOAT Film Reviews, Kyle has his early review of Heretic! On the GOAT Film Reviews YouTube Channel, you can find a video review of Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance (2024), along with a number of First Reactions to new releases!

New episodes for The Deer Hunter and Heretic.

Catherine paired the classic 1959 Doris Day-Rock Hudson romcom “Pillow Talk” with pea and pesto gnocchi on Veg Out. Plus, she has three new reviews on The Feed: “Heretic,” “The Piano Lesson” and “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” She also organized a collaborative Noirvember Double Features post and continued her FYC Friday series with microreviews of “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story,” “I Am: Céline Dion” and more.

Time reviewed Heretic on WCCO-AM’s “Paul & Jordana” show and “The Tom Barnard Show. He also interviewed Danny DeVito and Lucy DeVito for their new family holiday comedy A Sudden Case of Christmas (now in limited release and digital video on demand), which appears on Forbes.com.

Paul has a collection of new reviews and interviews to share:

Movies

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