Risen Is A So-So Faith-Based Mystery

Christ’s death and resurrection have inspired countless films and TV series, but most stick reasonably close to the Gospels. Risen takes a slightly different tack: in the film, Pontius Pilate tasks Clavius (Joseph Fiennes), a Roman centurion and skeptic, to find out whether Jesus was resurrected after his death. Critics say it’s a faith-based film that might even entertain a few non-believers: despite its occasional hokiness, Risen balances its weighty themes with a wry sense of humor, and the performances are sincere and committed.

The story of Jesse Owens is so gobsmackingly awesome that it’s pretty surprising nobody has made a movie about it until now. Race chronicles Owens’ performance at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, in which he won four gold medals while taking Hitler’s racist arrogance down a few notches. Critics say the result is well acted (particularly by relative newcomer Stephan James in the lead), beautifully photographed, deeply respectful of its hero… and often a bit too slavish in its adherence to the inspirational sports movie playbook.

The Witch has generated heated anticipation among horror buffs since its screening at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival. Set in New England in the 1600s, The Witch is the tale of a family that establishes a homestead in a remote wooded area after being  exiled from their Puritan community. But when they are threatened by otherworldly horrors, the family members accuse each other of consorting with the demonic.  Critics say the Certified Fresh The Witch conjures a mood of profound dread that will linger long after the lights go up in the theater.

Better Call Saul continues to tighten its hold on viewers with a batch of episodes that inject a surge of dramatic energy while showcasing the charms of its talented lead.

Though it can never live up to its parent publication in terms of purpose and cachet, many of the segments in The New Yorker Presents are classy, polished, and culturally educational.

Though the execution feels almost as dated as the period it represents, 11.22.63 gradually reveals a compelling, well-performed series of events.