Film offers 'Hard Truths' about why some people are happy — and others are miserable
Marianne Jean-Baptiste gives a phenomenal performance as a profoundly unhappy woman. There isn't a lot of plot, but director Mike Leigh builds his stories from the details and detritus of daily life.
New Host Trevor Noah Puts His Own Spin On 'The Daily Show'
Last night, seven weeks after Jon Stewart stepped down as the host of The Daily Show, the new host debuted. Critic David Bianculli says Trevor Noah "gave viewers plenty of reasons to tune in again."
From Ingenue To Antigone: Juliette Binoche Discusses Acting, Aging And Family
The Oscar-winning actress plays Antigone in a new translation of Sophocles' 2,000-year-old tragedy. "It's a very powerful play," Binoche says. Sophocles "still is bringing so much truth in our lives."
Comic Jim Gaffigan On Stand-Up, Faith And Opening For The Pope
On Saturday, Gaffigan will perform for an audience that may include Pope Francis. A practicing Catholic, the comic says faith is a central part of his humor.
Unadulterated Brass-Band Fun On Banda De Los Muertos' Debut Album
The horn-led band updates traditional Mexican party/folk music for modern American listeners on its self-titled album. Critic Milo Miles says Banda De Los Muertos' debut will make you dance.
'Fates And Furies' Offers A Tour-De-Force Plot, Minus Compelling Characters
Lauren Groff's new novel paints a portrait of marriage from the clashing viewpoints of a husband and wife. Critic Maureen Corrigan says Fates and Furies is "a marvel" — but that it could be better.
'Fresh Air' Remembers: Jack Larson, Who Played Jimmy Olsen On TV's 'Superman'
Best known as the oft-kidnapped cub reporter on the original Superman TV show, Larson was also a poet, playwright and librettist. He died at his home Sunday. Originally broadcast in 1993.
Revisiting The Intense Twists And Turns Of Garner's 'Concert By The Sea'
In 1955, pianist Erroll Garner's trio played in Carmel, Calif. A new complete edition of the Concert By The Sea album has just been released. Critic Kevin Whitehead has a review.
Assessing The $100 Million Upheaval Of Newark's Public Schools
In 2010, Mayor Cory Booker, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg devised a plan to improve Newark's failing schools. Dale Russakoff recounts their efforts in The Prize.