Production Design

Conclave (2025.7, Terrific , Faith )

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The movie Conclave depicts the secretive process of electing a new Pope, highlighting the struggle between certainty, doubt, and faith among the cardinals. The film, based on a novel by Robert Harris, is praised for its attention to detail and powerful performances, particularly from Ralph Fiennes as the Dean of Cardinals. Through the characters’ interactions and monologues, the audience is drawn into the complexities of the decision-making process, making it a compelling and thought-provoking thriller.

Wicked (2025.6, Wicked , Good Fun)

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The movie Wicked focuses on character development, particularly the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, rather than delving deeply into complex themes like the nature of evil. While the film’s story and tone are heavily influenced by the Broadway musical and original novel, the director, Jon M. Chu, effectively brings the characters and musical numbers to life. The first part of the movie leaves viewers with more questions than answers, setting the stage for the second part due out in November.

Dune: Part Two (2025.1, Awesome , Big )

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Dune: Part Two, a science fiction film, explores the enduring human traits of power-seeking and religious fervor, highlighting their timelessness despite technological advancements. The movie’s themes of power, ideology, and environmental concerns resonate with contemporary issues, prompting reflection on the persistence of human nature.

2025 Oscar Movies: My Predictions

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For each category I present my best guess for which 2025 Oscar movie will win with an explanation of my reasoning.

2025 Oscar General Interest: Ratings and Rankings

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A look at the 2025 Oscar General Interest movies as rated and ranked by the viewing public and by critics.

Napoleon (2024.32, Stunning , But Bad)

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Napoleon is visually stunning but fails to tell an emotionally engaging and understandable story. (1.5*)

Oppenheimer (2024.11, Astonishing , Full )

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Oppenheimer is an epic film that rewards the hard work required of the viewer. A full exploration of a man, physics, politics, and movie making. (5*)

Poor Things (2024.10, Beautiful , Sex )

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Poor Things, the story of a baby’s mind in an adult woman’s body, is probably the most bizarre movie I’ve ever seen. It is also one of the best. (5*)

Barbie (2024.4, Terrific , Energy )

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So far, at least, this is my favorite picture of the year. Full of sensory and storytelling delight. (5*)

Killers of the Flower Moon (2024.1, Exceptional, Murder )

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Killers of the Flower Moon is an exceptional and powerful movie about the Osage Native American murders of the 1920s, but it’s just too long! (4*)

Babylon – A Rare Failure from a Fine Filmmaker (2*)

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Babylon has some great moments, but is ultimately an overstuffed mess.

Avatar: The Way of Water – (Superb Spirit & Beauty) (4*)

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Avatar: The Way of Water is a visual spectacle, a story setting up the next three sequels, and, yes, long.

The Fabelmans – A Case Study in Creative Success (4*)

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The Fabelmans is a well crafted movie focusing on the roots of Steven Spielberg’s remarkably successful career. Still, it might not be for everyone. (4*)

Elvis – The Price You Pay for Ignoring Your Roots (4.5*)

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Elvis (4.5*) In a dazzling production full of sights and sounds, Baz Luhrmann paints the tragic story of a man who struggled to get back to his cultural roots.

All Quiet on the Western Front – A Gut Punch Focus on War (4*)

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A German production, All Quiet on the Western Front re-adapts the 1928 novel of the same name, adding some distinctive scenes and commentary to the story of a young German man, and his friends, thrust onto the “Western Front” to fight the French in the final months of World War I. Accompanied by some stunning cinematography, dominating sound and music, and visceral visual effects, the film reaches new heights in presenting the horror of war. It also adds another, very important message about how events are felt differently depending on where you stand on the social ladder.