Covid and Reality TV’s Fake Audience

I have a secret vice, I love reality TV. I know there is little real about it, but whether watching the Real Housewives‘ gorgeous houses, or the elegant ballgowns on Dancing with the Stars, or guessing the camouflaged celebrity on Masked Singer, I find these silly shows fun. Lately, however, I am finding these shows anxiety-producing. Whether it is the couples dancing cheek-to-cheek on Dancing, … Continue reading Covid and Reality TV’s Fake Audience

What Gardening & Mysteries Have in Common (& Fashion Video!)

by Ellen Byerrum It’s summer. How does your garden grow? This year our pink roses look pretty spectacular,  and our lilacs were lovely and fragrant. Still, we lost other flowers to a late spring freeze.     In many ways, I suppose, cultivating a garden is like writing a book. It takes time for everything to bloom. If you force it, it won’t flower in the right … Continue reading What Gardening & Mysteries Have in Common (& Fashion Video!)

Daddy Long Legs: Fire-Breathers and Criticism

Author’s note: I recently reread the novel Daddy Long Legs and loved it yet again. It reminded me of the wonderful musical I saw a few years ago. How I miss NYC theater! I am reposting this and wishing the cast my best during this difficult time when New York’s theaters are all dark. Take heart, we are thinking of you all.

by Diana Belchase

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Late Night Movie Review: When Feminism Falls Flat

I eagerly waited for Late Night to come out. The trailers were a hoot. The premise delightful. It utilized every trope I love: women coming together, underdog who succeeds, girl who shows the boys she’s better. Yet, while there are some glorious and funny moments in the film, ultimately it fell flat at the end, the point it matters most.   Late Night is about … Continue reading Late Night Movie Review: When Feminism Falls Flat

Why “A Wrinkle in Time” Missed the Mark

by Diana Belchase Like thousands of other Americans, I eagerly awaited the release of the movie, A Wrinkle in Time. As a kid’s fantasy adventure, it contained the special effects, star-studded cast, and fast action  designed to create a modern blockbuster. A film you waste a couple of hours on and then forget. It’s not the type of film to change anyone’s life, and that is … Continue reading Why “A Wrinkle in Time” Missed the Mark