Tag: writing

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 189

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: Masters of the Backrooms

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

Since the last update, The MN Movie Man has logged a lot of miles and even more movies — including a stretch out in Los Angeles that turned into a full-on repertory pilgrimage. Rather than chase the newest releases, he spent the trip hopping between the city’s legendary big-screen institutions: Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes at the Academy Museum’s David Geffen Theater, a back-to-back of Romy & Michele’s High School Reunion and The Wedding Singer at the Aero, the gloriously over-the-top Cutthroat Island at the Vista, Cinderella at Tarantino’s New Beverly, The Rocketeer‘s 35th Anniversary screening at the El Capitan, and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone reimagined in immersive dome form at COSM. He also squeezed in new releases, Backrooms, and Masters of the Universe while in town. Keep an eye on Instagram for the full trip diary and which screenings were worth the airfare.

Back home, the review pile has grown considerably. New write-ups are up for Carolina Caroline, Hungry, Chum, Pitfall, Office Romance, Affection, I Love Boosters, Remarkably Bright Creatures, the Cape Fear remake, and the documentary The Thing Expanded — plus earlier additions like Michael, Hokum, and a fresh look at the 1985 ensemble classic Clue.

On the physical media side, there’s a healthy stack of 4K reviews, including catalog favorites Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Red Sonja, Soldier, Innerspace, Blue Thunder, and John Carpenter’s Vampires, plus a horror double feature of The Eye and The Birthday.

Over at Loud and Clear Reviews, recent contributions include Mother Mary, Power Ballad, Obsession, the Polish drama Erupcja starring Charli XCX, and Stolen Kingdom — plus, for anyone still recovering from The Devil Wears Prada 2, a fun rundown of Miranda Priestly’s favorite movies.

As always, be sure to follow The MN Movie Man on Instagram, Letterboxd, TikTok, and Facebook for weekly early looks at upcoming films, physical media updates, and other news between newsletters.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian recently reviewed:

Brian appeared on KARE 11 Saturday to talk about I Love Boosters and Power Ballad.

He also published a collection of his reviews on the website about Classical Hollywood Cinema.

For his Patreon subscribers, Brian posted a new entry to The Definitives: The Philadelphia Story (1940). Get more of Brian’s work by joining his Patreon community.

Dallas Fisher – Dallas Goes To The Movies

Dallas has a few recent reviews up on his website. If you don’t feel like searching or guessing, you can click below to read specific reviews:

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Masters of the Universe. That review can also be read at the Eden Prairie Local News and the Woodbury News Net.

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

This week, I’ve got three new release reviews for a big blockbuster and a few smaller festival hits!

Chaz Kangas – Bring Me the News

For Pride Month, Chaz Kangas speaks with director Jake West on the new Severin restored edition of his late 90s vampire classic ‘Razor Blade Smile’ and how it reflects the late 90s vampire sceneers

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

  • Review: Forastera (2025) – A beguiling, haunting tale of familial loss set in Mallorca
  • Review: RENOIR (2025) – 1980s Tokyo seen through the eyes of a precocious, imaginative young girl
  • MAY 2026 Viewing Recap + Mini Review of Spider-Noir TV Series – one of Nic Cage’s best performances
  • Review: TUNER (2026) – Leo Woodall hits all the right notes in this music-themed heist thriller
  • Review: Masters of the Universe (2026) – This toy-based fantasy movie embraces its silly nature and delivers a goofy good time

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul is back with some FUN interviews and reviews.

Don’t forget to follow Paul on social media @PAULSMOVIETRIP, on Letterboxd,  Patreon, and YouTube

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. 182

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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: She Dances with Forbidden Fruits

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

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

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

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

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Joe Botten – The MN Movie Man

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

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

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

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

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

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

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

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

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

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

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

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

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

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

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

Eric Houston presses play on Gremlins and Gremlins 2.

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

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

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

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

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

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

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

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

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

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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 179

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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: The Hopping Bride

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

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

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

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

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

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

Jay Gabler – Duluth News Tribune

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

Jason Hemming – Cinema Recall

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

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

Eric Houston – North Metro TV

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

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

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

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

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

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

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

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

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

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

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Film reviews for The Dreadful and The Bride.

Interview with film reviewer Jared Huizenga.

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

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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 175

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

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

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

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

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

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

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Eli Brau – Cinephile Corner

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

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

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian reviewed the following titles:

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

Dallas Fisher – Dallas Goes To The Movies

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

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

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

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

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

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

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

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

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

Erik published two new film reviews this week:

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

Matthew Liedke – Liedke on Film

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

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

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

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul is back with some new reviews and interviews

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

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Film Reviews:

Interview with writer/illustrator Dennis Vogen

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

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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: No. 174

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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Send Shelter

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

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

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

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

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Eli Brau – Cinephile Corner

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

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

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

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

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

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

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

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

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

Kyle Goethe – Goat Film Reviews

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

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

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

Jakob Kolness – JakobTalksFilm

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

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

Erik Larson – Hamline Oracle

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

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

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

Mark McPherson – Movies With Mark

Film Reviews:

Brian Orndorf – Blu-Ray.Com

Film Reviews:

Blu-ray/UHD Reviews:

Nicholas Palodichuk – St. Paul Filmcast

Film Reviews:

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

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

The Minnesota Movie Digest: Issue No. 142

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: Making Friends during The Phoenician Scheme

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

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

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

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

And now… The Minnesota Movie Digest.

Joe Botten – The MN Movie Man

The summer movie season has officially kicked off and The MN Movie Man has several new and upcoming reviews for you this week.  Out now are Fear Street: Prom Queen and Restless, while May 30 will see the release of the queasy new horror film Bring Her Back.

At Loud and Clear Reviews, Joe’s reviews of the live-action remake of Lilo & Stich was published as well as Wes Anderson’s new comedy, The Phoenician Scheme.

A reminder that The MN Movie Man will be hosting Secret Movie Night at Emagine Willow Creek on Wednesday, June 11 at 7pm.  Don’t delay!  Get those tickets today.  One theater is nearly full, and the “Movie Only” theater (for overflow) is starting to sell.  Hope to see you there!

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!

Matt Clark – Kino Ventura

Matt joined Harry and Cody on the Trylove Podcast to discuss The Friends of Eddie Coyle, which played as part of the Trylon’s “Cantankerous Peter Boyle” series.

Brian Eggert – Deep Focus Review

On Deep Focus Review, Brian covered:

He also returned to KARE 11 to share his movie recommendations for Memorial Day weekend. And in case you missed it, check out the first episode of The CineFiles, a new movie-themed show on KARE 11+ starring Brian alongside anchor Chris Hrapsky and film journalist Jamie Rogers.

Hunter Friesen – The Cinema Dispatch

At The Cinema Dispatch, Hunter reviewed Fountain of Youth.

Zach Hammill – Movie Friend

Film Reviews:

C.B. Jacobson – Picturegoer

In this week’s issue of the “Picturegoer” newsletter, thoughts on “A Minecraft Movie”; changing American sexual mores in “Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice”; Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell in “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes”; Dustin Hoffman and Laurence Olivier in “Marathon Man”; Rudolph Valentino as “The Sheik”; and the third volume of Moore and O’Neill’s “League of Extraordinary Gentlemen”.  Follow the link: https://picturegoer.substack.com/p/picturegoer-vol-3-issue-16-a-minecraft-468

Catherine Krummey – Veg Out Recipes

Catherine has two new reviews on The Feed: “Jane Austen Wrecked My Life” and “Lilo & Stitch.” She also published a new list on Letterboxd: Jane Austen Joints, which ranks the movie adaptations she’s seen of the beloved author’s work.

Ruth Maramis – FlixChatter

Paul McGuire Grimes – Paul’s Trip to the Movies

Paul has some new reviews and interviews to share!

Find Paul on 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