‘Playdate’ comically and confusingly conveys fatherhood
By Carly Shaner
They say people get closer in high-stakes situations; that friendships are strengthened when the stakes are heightened. Why not also use those circumstances as father-son bonding time?
“Playdate” follows Brian (Kevin James), a new stay-at-home stepdad, as he tries to connect with his son Lucas (Benjamin Pajak). They accept an invitation from another stay-at-home dad, Jeff (Alan Ritchson), and his son CJ (Banks Pierce). At said playdate, part of which is in a Chuck-E...
‘A Very Jonas Christmas Movie’ captures the laughter of Christmas
By Danielle Cherry
In this comedic Christmas movie, the Jonas Brothers portray themselves in their struggle to get home for Christmas. Through all the singing and hijinks, the brothers’ biggest obstacle is themselves and the bond that seems to be disappearing before their eyes.
Throughout the film, each brother struggles with some level of self-doubt, each stemming from popular internet knowledge. Nick is the uptight brother, Joe is the womanizer, and Kevin just wants to ...
‘Hidden Gems’ is a collection of well-performed pieces with a handful that truly shine
By Eva Tweeten
Known for his rich voice and beautiful covers of classic songs, Josh Groban delivers a new staple to his repertoire in his newest album, “Hidden Gems.” A compilation of formerly limited-edition Groban pieces and new covers, “Hidden Gems” is a natural addition to Groban’s collection.
Groban has been with his partner, Natalie McQueen, since 2022. Their relationship was made official on Valentine’s Day in 2023.
The opening track, “The Constant,” is ...
‘Ballad of a Small Player’ requires audiences gamble 101 minutes for an uncertain payout
By Teagan Warren
Edward Berger, the director of “Ballad of a Small Player,” is known for other films on my watchlist including, “All Quiet on the Western Front” (2022) and “Conclave” (2024). Most recently, he presented a stunning, detailed filming style in his film adaptation of the book “The Ballad of a Small Player.”
At the time of review, this film was ranked number six in movies today on Netflix. It depicts a man who calls himself Lord Doyle as he stays in a fancy ...
Leanna Crawford opens the ‘Still Waters Tour’ in Xenia, OH with style
By Amelia Morris
You may not have heard the name Leanna Crawford, but you likely have heard her song “Still Waters.” On November 6, 2025, Crawford opened her “Still Waters Tour” with her first show at the Schneider Banquet Center in Xenia, Ohio.
Crawford is a new Christian artist best known for her hit “Still Waters,” from her album of the same name. The catchy and spiritual song features a chorus with lyrics similar to the words from Psalm 23, also known as ‘the ...
‘Truth & Treason’ is a tenacious true tale
By Amelia Morris
‘Truth & Treason’ recounts the true story of Helmuth Hubener, a 16-year-old boy living in Nazi Germany in 1942. Helmuth has an incredible gift for writing, is a devout Mormon and loyal German citizen.
The movie sets the stage for the audience, showcasing the World War II landscape of Hamburg, Germany. Inside Helmuth’s house, we see him getting ready for his first day at his new internship at city hall. He easily impresses his new bosses with his writing skills ...
‘Bugonia’ terrifyingly portrays the brokenness of humanity
By John Hiett
Have you ever wondered what would happen if conspiracy theorists had enough determination and planning to test their actual theories out? “Bugonia,” an absurdist thriller, deals with this exact question.
Two beekeepers-turned conspiracy theorists, Teddy (Jesse Plemons) and Don (Aidan Delbis), kidnap a high-level CEO, Michelle Fuller (Emma Stone).
The plot of the movie stems from two beekeepers who have experienced hardship due to a drastic decline in the bee ...
‘The Diplomat’ season three depicts the complexities of life as a government official
By Josh Ball
What are you willing to do to prevent the next world war? This is the question Kate Wyler tries to answer in Netflix’s “The Diplomat.” After finding out the origins of a terror plot, she must do everything she can to maintain relations with the United Kingdom to prevent the end of NATO.
Season three picks up with our political leaders in a tense state, holding the world order in a precarious balance. With new President Grace Penn, played by Allison Janney, the plot ...
‘Predator: Badlands’ offers an exhilarating balance between epic showdowns and wholesome fun
By Gabriel Payne
The newest installment of the Predator franchise, Dan Trachtenberg’s “Predator: Badlands,” is an excellent addition to a long list of quality movies. But this movie stands out for so much more than the raw action and adrenaline pumping sequences. It’s funny, heartwarming and thoughtfully deals with refreshingly relevant themes.
The film follows the journey of Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), a young Yautja warrior seeking to claim honor and glory among his ...
Guilmero del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’ is a terrific retelling of a classic story
By Cadence Powers
“Frankenstein,” the newest installment in Del Toro’s Gothic film collection and a modern adaptation of Mary Shelley's 1818 novel, hit select theaters on Oct. 17. Marked by beautiful visuals, powerful writing and a moving soundtrack, the newest installment in “Frankenstein” adaptations demonstrates why Del Toro’s work is so well known for its gothic aesthetic.
The movie opens on a vessel bound to reach the North Pole amongst a Frozen Wasteland. The crew ...
