John Contini Triumphs in Vibrant Production of ‘Barrymore’ at STLAS

John Contini Triumphs in Vibrant Production of ‘Barrymore’ at STLAS

By Lynn Venhaus Local treasure John Contini is at his best in a vibrant, vigorous portrayal of legendary actor John Barrymore that is both funny... Details
Nicolas Cage Is In Top Form in ‘Dream Scenario’ – a Dark, Intriguing Satire

Nicolas Cage Is In Top Form in ‘Dream Scenario’ – a Dark, Intriguing Satire

By Alex McPherson A creative, darkly comic story of self-destructive ego and fame’s dehumanizing effects, director Kristoffer Borgli’s “Dream Scenario” is never less than engaging... Details
‘American Symphony’ Triumphs as Tender Look at Art, Life and Love

‘American Symphony’ Triumphs as Tender Look at Art, Life and Love

By Lynn Venhaus Transformative in the very best of ways, both heartbreaking and heartwarming, “American Symphony” is an ode to believing in art, hope, and... Details
Shakespeare Festival’s Jolly ‘Q Brothers Christmas Carol’ Sparkles

Shakespeare Festival’s Jolly ‘Q Brothers Christmas Carol’ Sparkles

By Lynn Venhaus Even the most mean-spirited holiday-hater won’t be muttering “Bah! Humbug” after sampling the jolly high-octane hip-hop musical remix of Charles Dickens’ classic... Details
Disney’s ‘Wish’ Lacks the Luster It Is Striving For in Centennial Tribute

Disney’s ‘Wish’ Lacks the Luster It Is Striving For in Centennial Tribute

By Lynn VenhausThe idealist in me wants to believe in Disney magic, of good triumphing over evil, of the power of community, and memorable moments,... Details
Waititi Delivers in Fun, Messy Sports Film ‘Next Goal Wins’

Waititi Delivers in Fun, Messy Sports Film ‘Next Goal Wins’

By Alex McPherson A lightweight, enjoyable treat that leans into sports movie cliches while adding some wrinkles, director Taika Waititi’s “Next Goal Wins” doesn’t try... Details
Silly Offbeat ‘Next Goal Wins’ Is By-the-Numbers Crowd Pleaser

Silly Offbeat ‘Next Goal Wins’ Is By-the-Numbers Crowd Pleaser

By Lynn VenhausThink a second tier “Ted Lasso” meets a “Cool Runnings” vibe in this rough-around-the-edges underdog sports comedy-drama that is based on a true... Details
Coppola’s ‘Priscilla’ Presents Elvis Romance as Surreal Teenage Dream

Coppola’s ‘Priscilla’ Presents Elvis Romance as Surreal Teenage Dream

By Lynn Venhaus Women of privilege but not power in a male-dominated world has been a theme in other Sofia Coppola films, and “Priscilla” fits... Details
Road Maps, Detours and Powerhouse Vocals Drive ‘The Mad Ones’

Road Maps, Detours and Powerhouse Vocals Drive ‘The Mad Ones’

By Lynn Venhaus An 18-year-old girl in a car. Life looms large at that age, so much ahead, not much in the rear-view mirror. Is... Details
‘Priscilla’ Is An Atmospheric Look at a Troubled Relationship

‘Priscilla’ Is An Atmospheric Look at a Troubled Relationship

By Alex McPherson Stylistically resonant with absorbing performances from Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi, director Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla” is emotionally removed, eschewing a deeper dive... Details