Kirsten Dunst

  • Review: ‘The Beguiled’ captivates characters before it all goes wrong (Includes first-hand account)

    During war times in the 19th century and earlier, the men would all leave and the women would ban together in an effort to protect their homes and families. While the men faced the carnage of battle, the women faced their own hardships with supply shortages, pillaging soldiers and tending large pieces of land alone. This was the case during the Civil War, in which men of all ages and races were sent to kill each other while the women were delivered news of their deaths. In The Beguiled, a Southern all-girl’s school becomes host to an injured Yankee solider near the end of the conflict.

  • Review: ‘Hidden Figures’ is a testament of our ability to create change (Includes first-hand account)

    When one reviews humanity’s various achievements over the centuries, it becomes evident that our potential for great things has not evolved as much as our ability to accomplish them. Technological advancements have made it possible for even some of the most far-fetched dreams to be converted into reality. Accordingly, it’s not so much that the population is getting smarter but that they have the tools to fully realize their brilliance. Thus, when one looks at a historical drama like Hidden Figures, the wonder isn’t at what they could do but how hard they had to fight to do it.

  • Review: ‘Midnight Special’ is a unique tale of knowing and not knowing (Includes first-hand account)

    In spite of humans’ desire to be all-knowing, we must admit that which we don’t know far exceeds that which we understand. Who knows what the rest of the infinite universe holds or what other intelligent life may live beyond our reach, and whether or not they’re aware of our existence; or, as many films have proposed, how long these beings have observed us and/or lived undetected in our midst. On top of scientific unknowns are the various possibilities provided in religion regarding omnipotent deities, the afterlife and Earth-bound saviours. Writer/director Jeff Nichols’ latest picture, Midnight Special, is a captivating mystery steeped in faith and devotion.