The expression “hard act to follow” rings like a peal of bells both centrally and superficially when it comes to the new adaptation of Rebecca premiering on…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Rebecca Colors Its Own Gothic Undertones”

For anyone who’s heard one of the countless monologues in a Woody Allen film, you may have found yourself asking “who in the world talks like that?”…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: A Rainy Day in New York is Mismatched Nostalgia”

The 2020 edition of the Chicago International Film Festival will bring several of their Gala and World Premiere presentations to socially distant audiences from the comfort of…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: 56th Chicago International Film Festival Part 1: Drive-In Features”

There are certain notable people who have created an aura where they can get by on charm alone. Their mere presence elevates and enlivens any occasion. The…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: On the Rocks Gets by on Charm”

In one of her many quotable soundbites throughout her storied career, Gloria Steinem once said, “Women have two choices: Either she’s a feminist or a masochist.” You’re…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: The Glorias Puts Feminist Strength on a Proper Pillar”

Ten years ago, The Social Network from director David Fincher wasn’t a college roommate comedy.  It wasn’t a long legal drama either. It wasn’t an underdog entrepreneur…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: The Reflective Edge of The Social Network Ten Years Later”

Not if, but when, you watch The Trial of the Chicago 7 on Netflix, know that, like all movies based on historical events, what you’re watching is…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: The Trial of the Chicago 7 is an Affirming Fraction of its Embattled History”

For this critic, there are two telling scenes among many that stand out in Migonnes, now better known as Cuties, that typify its challenge and its caution.…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Cuties Displays Its Tangible Negatives With Powerful Worth”

Twists and turns be damned, Antebellum is a potent illustration of the discrepancy between a premise, the intellectual seed of every creative film, and what could simply…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Antebellum Is the Discrepancy Between a Premise and a Good Idea”

Quite quickly into Roger Michell’s Blackbird, Susan Sarandon stamps exactly what kind of terminally ill character this film intends to portray. You may see the Academy Award…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Blackbird Presents an Ethical Challenge with Family Grace”