By Jim Tortolano Full disclosure: To me, Keanu Reeves is one of the worst actors to ever have leading roles in American motion pictures. The Challenge: Can a movie in which Mr. […]
“Bill and Ted” still dumb and slow
It’s a real trip to “Palm Springs”
By Jim Tortolano Contrary to appearances, “Palm Springs” is not just a hipper remake of the Bill Murray classic “Groundhog Day.” While there are some similarities – a romance that blooms for […]
Political satire that’s “Irresistible”
By Jim Tortolano “Money,” I remember hearing in my youth, “may not be the most important thing in life. But it sure beats the heck out of whatever is in second place.” […]
A new era with “Greyhound”?
By Jim Tortolano “Greyhound” is not an extraordinary movie, but it may turn out to be an important one. This World War II drama about the Battle of the Atlantic features Tom […]
An intoxicating return at Gem
By Thom deMartino We all agree, it’s been a long few months, as we all readjust to the “new normal.” Putting aside our collective weariness of the words “uncertain” and “unsure”, what […]
“Cocktail Hour” brings cheer to Gem
By Jim Tortolano If you can’t get enough of your musical theater needs filled while the Gem Theater in Garden Grove is closed due to the “stay-at-home” order in place because of […]
Get away with “Murder” at WCP
By Thom deMartino “It was a dark and stormy night…” Isn’t that always how it starts? Lightning blazing, thunder crashing, underscoring the menace of the moment? And what better setting for a […]
Engrossing “Lessons” at Golden West
By Thom deMartino In the darkness of the theater, be it live or cinematic, we lose ourselves in the lines and tales so those we never knew but somehow through the production […]
“The Way Back” takes surprising path
By Jim Tortolano “The Way Back” starts off as a stereotypical sports hero movie and then takes an abrupt turn in the fourth quarter that somewhat redeems the effort. Ben Affleck stars […]
“Guys and Dolls” is fun and flash
By Thom deMartino The things that matter most to us are often right in front of us: and while we might think it’s about the role of the dice and the game, […]
