Good Performers Can’t Save Standard Action-Thriller ‘The Protege’

Good Performers Can’t Save Standard Action-Thriller ‘The Protege’

By Lynn VenhausDespite a few fine actors who wring out decent performances, “The Protégé” is a convoluted and ridiculous late-summer action-thriller throwaway with too many... Details
Sightlines: My All-Time Favorite, Robert Redford, at 85

Sightlines: My All-Time Favorite, Robert Redford, at 85

By Lynn VenhausActor-filmmaker-founder of Sundance Film Institute Robert Redford turned 85 today! (Aug. 18).He has been a major part of my film-going life, first as... Details
Mighty Muny Effort to Transform ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’

Mighty Muny Effort to Transform ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’

By Lynn VenhausInspired by an adored golden-age movie musical 67 years ago, the stage version of “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” has been updated to... Details
Folksy Charm of Stages St. Louis ‘Always…Patsy Cline’ Tugs at Hearts

Folksy Charm of Stages St. Louis ‘Always…Patsy Cline’ Tugs at Hearts

By Lynn VenhausPatsy Cline was that rare artist who made a deep connection with anyone who listened to her sing. A similar effect happens with... Details
Heartwarming Drama ‘CODA’ Opens Our Ears to Deaf Adults’ Struggles

Heartwarming Drama ‘CODA’ Opens Our Ears to Deaf Adults’ Struggles

By Lynn VenhausSure, it’s predictable, but “CODA” earns its way into your heart with a touching family coming-of-age story that makes it impossible not to... Details
Fast, Furious, Fun – High-Spirited ‘Free Guy’ Is a Summer Surprise

Fast, Furious, Fun – High-Spirited ‘Free Guy’ Is a Summer Surprise

By Lynn VenhausClever, brimming with wit and good nature, “Free Guy” is one of the most pleasant surprises of the summer. An action video game, comic-book... Details
Piece of ‘Art’ Provokes Out-of-Tune Friends in Razor-Sharp Comedy

Piece of ‘Art’ Provokes Out-of-Tune Friends in Razor-Sharp Comedy

By Lynn VenhausAt times, friendship is not always the perfect ‘blendship.’ Case in point: “Art,” a razor-sharp comedy currently being staged outdoors by Stray Dog... Details
‘Nine Days’ Is Enthralling Sci-Fi Debut

‘Nine Days’ Is Enthralling Sci-Fi Debut

By Alex McPherson A thoughtful, meditative, unabashedly far-out sci-fi gem, Edson Oda’s directorial debut, “Nine Days,” asks intriguing questions about the rollercoaster of life. This... Details
Bright and Cheery ‘Vivo’ Pops with Personality, Catchy Latin Beats

Bright and Cheery ‘Vivo’ Pops with Personality, Catchy Latin Beats

By Lynn Venhaus A vibrant mix of bright colors and snappy Latin beats, the animated musical adventure “Vivo” pops with personality. Set in Havana, Miami... Details