The Witch (2016)

This is world-class horror filmmaking. And it illustrates unnerving truths about what happens to community and family when the response to evil is blame and violence instead of soulful repentance and faith.


2 Comments9 Minutes

House on fire!


0 Comments1 Minute

Archival footage of creation discovered?

Are you ready to go backward and forward in time again with Terrence Malick?


0 Comments2 Minutes

Finding Dory (2016)

I did feel some trepidation as I took my theater seat. Did I really want a sequel to what I consider to be Pixar's most beautifully realized film, its most perfect execution of its narrative strengths? Could a follow-up do anything but dilute the formula?


0 Comments12 Minutes

In Memory of Peter Shaffer

I've just learned that the imagination responsible for one of my favorite films passed away today.


1 Comment10 Minutes

Bob Dylan — from faith to faith

He's 75. And I'm grateful for him.


1 Comment6 Minutes

Midnight Special (2016)

In which I relate a collage of conversations about Jeff Nichols's latest film —  an homage to '80s films about strangers who fell to earth.


0 Comments18 Minutes

Dreams come true. Be a part of one.

The clock is ticking. You have until May 1 to jump at this opportunity.


2 Comments3 Minutes

Two hours of texture

For a film as exquisitely beautiful as this, it's better to describe it's textures than to quote its dialogue.


1 Comment4 Minutes

Before Midnight Special: Looking back at Jeff Nichols’s masterful debut

If you've already seen Midnight Special (which I liked), try Nichols's first film and see if you agree with me: I think it's his best work.


0 Comments8 Minutes

To Read or Not to Read: The Confessions of X

In which Looking Closer launches a new, intermittent series on creative writing and the art of the opening chapter. Writers—take note!


0 Comments19 Minutes

10 Cloverfield Lane (2016)

You've probably already read the reviews. So let's do something different: I'll answer some unexpected questions about this unexpected movie.


1 Comment13 Minutes

Looking Closer with Jeffrey Overstreet

(now the ears of my ears awake andnow the eyes of my eyes are opened)

– e. e. cummings, “i thank You God for most this amazing”