Alex Carter

Aaron Schimberg, an accomplished writer-director, unveils a compelling narrative about a neurotic New Yorker who undergoes an experimental facial transformation in the brilliantly acted, peculiar, and comical film “A Different Man”, starring Sebastian Stan. The film echoes Rod Serling’s nightmare fantasies and draws on a variety of cinematic influences from different periods known for their … Read more

Who can resist a compelling headline framed as a question? Or an opening sentence in a newsletter, for instance? The answer to that question can sometimes be contentious. But there are times, like my colleague Bill Addison’s critique of the snug eatery on Melrose Avenue, “Stir Crazy,” where the answer is quite clear. “Aren’t quaint … Read more

Coralie Fargeat, a film director, seems to have an odd fascination with buttocks. Her Cannes-winning film, “The Substance,” centers around a faded Hollywood actress who has an unusual tolerance for self-inflicted torment. This movie is notable for having a surprisingly high number of buttocks shots, given its lengthy runtime of just over two and a … Read more

Renowned actor Michael Madsen, famous for his roles in “Reservoir Dogs” and other Quentin Tarantino films, has recently initiated divorce proceedings from his wife of over two decades. Stating irreconcilable differences as the primary cause for their separation, Madsen hints that there are deeper issues at play. Coming in the wake of a recent arrest … Read more

Upon the suggestion of my colleague Mark Olsen’s weekly Indie Focus newsletter (which you can sign up for here), I found myself at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on Monday evening for a 35mm screening of “Mi Vida Loca.” The film, directed by Allison Anders, tells the story of Mousie (Seidy Lopez) and Sad … Read more

There’s no event like the passing of a loved one that can bring people together, magnifying the subtle tensions, longstanding grudges, and deep-seated emotional links. The recently released film “His Three Daughters” delves deep into these complex dynamics with remarkable insight and precision. Crafted by the skilled hands of Azazel Jacobs who served as both … Read more

It’s no secret that the entertainment world is grappling with significant challenges, including reduced content production and a shrinking job market. Eric Roberts, renowned for his electrifying film performances, was among the first to recognize this shift, even before television binge-watching was a badge of honor. His outlook is straightforward: “The days of lengthy rehearsals … Read more

As the curtain lifts on Lana Wilson’s documentary “Look Into My Eyes,” focused on the world of psychics, a dull New York skyline is seen above an indistinct building. A single window emits a soft, golden light. Inside, a woman recounts a story of a young girl’s heartbreaking death that she has held onto for … Read more

“My Old Ass” by Megan Park revolves around a common pondering: If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be? The film’s creator and director, Park, brings this thought to life through the main character, Elliott, portrayed by Maisy Stella when she’s 18 (in her debut film role) and by Aubrey … Read more

Chad McQueen, a well-known actor, and racing enthusiast, recognized for his roles in the “Karate Kid” series during the 1980s and as the son of the late actor and race car driver Steve McQueen, has passed away at the age of 63. His death was confirmed on Wednesday by his attorney and close friend, Arthur … Read more