'Charlie's Country': A Worn Landscape That's Both Sad And Majestic
NPR's Bob Mondello reviews a dramatic film about an aboriginal hunter who yearns for a life in Australia, like the one his parents had.
Movie Reviews
In 'Spy,' Melissa McCarthy Receives Top-Billing. Finally.
NPR film critic Bob Mondello says Spy is a generous, smart, sexy comedy, surrounding a generous, smart, sexy star. It was a long time coming, but it was worth the wait.
Movie Review: 'Testament Of Youth'
The British drama is based on the best-selling World War I memoir of Vera Brittain, who gives up her studies at Oxford to enlist as a nurse in the war.
A Simplified Brian Wilson In 'Love And Mercy'
Played at different stages of his life by Paul Dano and John Cusack, the Brian Wilson who emerges from this film is a less engaging and complex creator than the real Beach Boy.
A Strong Central Performance Elevates A Pacifist's Story
A new adaptation of Vera Brittain's memoir Testament Of Youth isn't really necessary, but a strong turn from actress Alicia Vikander is a highlight.
A Satisfying 'Spy' Proves There's Life In The Secret Agent Send-Up
Melissa McCarthy reunites with director Paul Feig (of Bridesmaids and The Heat) and ascends to a solo lead role as a skilled operative struggling to be taken seriously.
In 'Spy', Melissa McCarthy Shines Amid Crude Jokes And Chase Scenes
Melissa McCarthy plays a James-Bond-style undercover secret agent in the espionage comedy Spy. Critic David Edelstein says the movie lurches between slapstick, violence and crude humor.
Malian Bandleader Bassekou Kouyate Merges Rock And Soul In 'Ba Power'
The new album by the veteran musician and his band Ngoni Ba conveys the restless march of time and the transience of all human conditions. Milo Miles calls it "the most satisfying sort of catchy."
'Heaven Knows What' Adds New Wrinkles To The Street Junkie Narrative
The film slightly fictionalizes the experience of Arielle Holmes, a young homeless addict whom filmmakers Josh and Benny Safdie first encountered in Manhattan's Diamond District.
Pop Culture Happy Hour: 'Tomorrowland,' The Future And The Past
On this week's show, we tackle Tomorrowland and consider pop culture looks at both the future and the past. And as always, we chat about what's making us happy this week.