How fortunate that as a young person I recognized the wealth of opera, music, film and the written word, would befriend me well into my dotage; it has paid off in spades. 2026 to this point has gifted me with two unique protagonists and a historical narrative I am bound to for life. “Safronia” an opera composed by poet laureate …

By far the most innovative, genuine watchable “horror” films in theatres this year. Director/writer Curry Barker handily conquers the genre in the “be careful what you wish for” category; acted to sublimity by Michael Johnston “Bear”, Inde Navarrette “Nikki”; brilliance lies in the simplicity of a “One Wish Willow” a supernatural toy that grants just one irrevocable wish, never reversed …

Rarely do I visit animated or child appropriate films! I was intrigued by “sheep”, Mary’s little lamb, known to be rather clueless, dumb animals; also furry, cute and huggable. But detectives no way! Based on the book by James Swann there is something charmingly simplistic about a flock that resolutely loves mystery stories, gifted every evening by Shepherd “George” (Hugh …

Stultifyingly stylish. Twenty years have passed and the characters are unchanged, robotic and struggling with digital dimensions demanded by director David Frankel. Anne Hathaway (better served in “Mother Mary” where she is brilliant as a “Taylor Swift” lionized, troubled performer) still coiffed in Rapunzel-flowing tresses, smiling vapidly, hiding intelligence behind contemporary fashion, journalist trends. Striving for substantiality as “Andrea Sachs” …