Author: Laurie Coker

As a retired literature teacher who read and later introduced students to Emily Brontë’s only novel, I approached the 2026 adaptation of Wuthering Heights with anticipation—and, I admit, protectiveness. Directed and written by Emerald Fennell and starring Margot Robbie as Catherine and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, the adaptation is visually sumptuous and boldly acted. Yet… Continue reading Wuthering Heights: visually sumptuous, boldly acted, yet deeply disappointing

I didn’t expect to fall for Solo Mio, but I did. Kevin James is the first reason—it’s hard not to carry the shadow of Paul Blart, and yet he’s fully human, fully charming, and quietly heartbreaking. He plays Matt, a grade school art teacher whose carefully planned wedding in Rome… well, let’s just say life… Continue reading Solo Mio: warm, funny, sad, and uplifting all at once

The new Anaconda doesn’t pretend to be a reinvention, a reboot, or even a particularly clever update. Instead, it leans fully into its absurdity, presenting itself as an intentionally silly, self-aware comedy that knows exactly how ridiculous its premise is—and occasionally dares the audience to keep up. Inspired by the so-called cinematic “classic” rather than… Continue reading Anaconda: leans fully into its absurdity, presenting itself as an intentionally silly

Based on the documentary of the same name, Song Sung Blue: An Unbreakable Dream is a musical biopic rooted in the simple, deeply human idea that music and performance can bring real happiness—even when the songs belong to someone else. The film centers on Lightning & Thunder, a Neil Diamond tribute duo, and suggests that… Continue reading Song Sung Blue: delivers exactly what it sets out to do with care and sincerity

Watching You Got Gold felt like stepping into a room full of people who not only loved John Prine’s music but also truly understood his heart. I had the privilege of seeing Prine perform live years ago, and even then, what struck me most was his gift as a storyteller. He didn’t just sing songs;… Continue reading You Got Gold: A Celebration of John Prine – a fitting tribute to a storyteller who never required the spotlight to shine