‘Death of a Unicorn’ is a perfectly-executed character-driven comedy
By Ben Konuch
“I get this feeling that I don’t think we’re supposed to be here.”
I had no idea what to expect when I went to see “Death of a Unicorn.” It’s the latest film from A24, the indie studio that’s now become an alternative to the mainstream, with a trailer promising an intriguing mixture of satirical comedy and dark, creature horror. And yes, the creature horror in question is the titular unicorn. Sporting a star-studded cast that included Paul Rudd, Jenna ...
‘Win or Lose’ creatively explores individual psychology
By Teagan Warren
As the kid who resonated with the t-shirt, “I just hope both teams are having fun,” I was excited to watch a show that depicted each character compassionately, even the annoying ones we tend to resent.
In Disney Pixar’s first original series, the creators explore the inner world of eight different characters, all connecting to one children’s softball team.
Each character is featured in their own special episode.
When learning of the premise, I was concerned ...
‘Daredevil: Born Again’ episodes 5 & 6 struggle with consistency
By Ben Konuch
I am enjoying “Daredevil: Born Again” throughout its first few episodes, but my enjoyment is hand in hand with concerns about inconsistency. So far it’s been subtle, a mix of well-written and sloppy dialogue or a fantastic action sequence right before a horribly directed fight, but episodes five and six take every worry I had in the background and drag them into the forefront.
Now, over halfway through the series, “Born Again’s” last two episodes at best ...
‘Novocaine’ is a wild ride that’s not for the squeamish
By Ben Konuch
“Do you know what it’s like to wait your whole life to meet someone? Someone who finally gives your life meaning?”
The premise of “Novocaine” on the surface is incredibly simple – and that simplicity carries the film forward with a unique twist. Nathan Caine (Jack Quaid), a bank-working everyman, has a special condition: he can’t feel pain. Enduring overprotective parents and bullying throughout his life, Caine yearns for connections with people while living a ...
Foreign Film: ‘The Lady’ shows a new way to see the world
By Danielle Cherry
Set in 1990, “The Lady” portrays the life of Aung San (Michelle Yeoh), a political activist in Burma, fighting for a democratic republic. Before her leadership, Burma was under strict militant rule, having no tolerance for activism of any kind.
Aung San’s relationship with Burma is strained; her father, a political activist himself, took steps to make Burma free, but was murdered before any real change occurred. When university students begin rioting for ...
‘Daredevil: Born Again’ episodes 3 & 4 build a strong case for the defense
By Ben Konuch
“There’s a thing they say in boxing, the best cure to a black eye is fast hands.”
(The following review contains spoilers for “Daredevil: Born Again”)
“Daredevil: Born Again” is finally finding its footing. While its premiere episodes were a slightly uneven mix of great potential and rough edges, the series pumps the brakes on action to build a dramatic foundation, which works massively. Despite barely any action in episodes three and four, “Dared...
‘Love & Hyperbole’ is hopeful and relaxing
By Justin Kemp
Remember when Alessia Cara blew up from nowhere in 2015 with her debut single “Here,” took the Grammy for Best New Artist in 2018 and vanished? Well, she’s back with her fourth studio album, “Love & Hyperbole.” Released on February 14th, 2025, Cara’s newest record looks at love in a new light—happiness. While it features breakup songs reminiscent of her previous works, “Love & Hyperbole” offers a warm perspective on the changes that come with growing ...
‘Last Breath’ ushers in a new twist on the thriller genre
By Danielle Cherry
Based on the true story of deep diver Chris Lemons, (Finn Cole) “Last Breath” takes a twist on the typical thriller genre, portraying a heartfelt yet gripping story in a way atypical to Hollywood productions.
Deep sea diving is the most dangerous job in the world, and the film makes that very clear. The story follows Chris Lemons and his crew of Duncan Allcock (Woody Harrelson) and David Yuasa (Simu Liu) while they prepare to fix a deep sea pipe.
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Is “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-man” woke done well?
By Katlynn Rossignol
It took the whole season, but this show won me over. What appeared at first glance as a show with meager animation grasping for ‘diversity points’ actually provides an enjoyable narrative and fantastic build-up.
"Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-man" is Marvel's latest animated series, focusing on an alternate universe Spider-man. When Midtown High School is destroyed in battle, a What-If series of events has Peter Parker switch schools and never meet the ...
‘Mickey 17’ failed its own promises
By Ben Konuch
“Our entire life is a punishment.”
“Mickey 17” is the newest film from Bong Joon Ho, winner of Best Director and Best Picture for “Parasite” at the Oscars in 2020. His first project since “Parasite,” “Mickey 17” was announced in 2023 and confirmed to star Robert Pattinson as the titular Mickey, and I couldn’t wait to see these two creatives team up. Unfortunately, Warner Bros’ marketing team did such a good job selling the film that they ultimately ...
