“We know what we are, but know not what we may be.” –- Hamlet
Review
Film Review: “Dark Waters” — Poison and Passion
Dark Waters may not be Todd Haynes’ most beautiful film, but it may yet prove to be among his most important.
Film Review: “A Hidden Life” — A Sacramental Journey
Even with my caveats, A Hidden Life raises filmmaking to heights that will thrill Terrence Malick fans.
Book Review: “The Conservative Sensibility” — A Plea for a Return to Normalcy
The very people that George Will is trying to appeal to are evidently quite happy to be drunk on the power that their brutishness has created.
Book Review: Refugee Scholars — “Well Worth Saving”
This is a carefully-researched book of far more than academic interest.
Opera Review: A Major Opera by Donizetti — Heard for the First Time!
One of Donizetti’s strongest and most original works, has finally been reconstructed and recorded by superb forces under the remarkable Mark Elder.
Book Review: The ‘Papa’ of Male Modern Dance, Ted Shawn — A Story of Changing Norms
In this new biography, Ted Shawn is on display in all his narcissism, paternalism, hypocrisy, originality, and the dedication to creative expression that set American modern dance on its way.
Concert Review: Tedeschi Trucks Band — Even Now, Still Evolving
Each concert offered all that the Tedeschi Trucks Band can do.
Theater Review: New Rep’s “Oliver!” — Less Boundless Energy, Please
The spirit of Oliver! explodes on stage here, and that is a credit to the ambitions of this company.
Book Review: “A History of Philosophy” — An Excellent Tour for the Curious
A.C. Grayling’s history is an excellent tour for the curious and a refresher for everyone who had Philosophy 101 and wants to remember why it was so moving at the time.