“A Simple Machine” Review: Deconstructing a Life, One Cycle at a Time

A film made not only for people who like movies, but for people who like bikes.
Bennett’s Summer 2026 Best-to-Worst List

These are the movies I watched this season, presented in order of preference.
“The Dog Stars” Review: I’ve Seen Things You People Will Believe

Of all the bleak futures Ridley Scott has manifested, this one may be the bleakest.
15 Filmmakers Who Have Shaped the Cinema of the 21st Century

A useful pantheon for anyone who wants to understand the movies of the moment.
“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” Review: You’ll Believe a Man Can Cry

Director Destin Daniel Cretton plunges us into the soul of a superhero who protects a city he’s barely part of.
“The Odyssey” Review: A Man! A Film! A Future!

Christopher Nolan molds Homer’s epic poem into an epic film about a flawed hero “chasing the escaping sun.”
“Disclosure Day” Review: Close Encounters of the Human Kind

Steven Spielberg’s latest is about a future that echoes transformative moments from the past.
Yet Another Graham Platner Scandal [PARODY]

As long as nothing WORSE comes out….
“Silent Friend” Review: The Roots of Human Connection Reach Across Time

Echoing “Intolerance” and “Resurrection,” “Silent Friend” extends through eras in search of the high of one life brushing up against another.
Ships and Spies, Cars in the Sky: Three Great Books About Movies
This week, we’re reviewing books about a “Titanic” producer, a “Bourne” director, and a movie franchise all about (insert Vin Diesel growl) “family!”