Review: 'Conclave' brings fictional Church politics down to earth
Samantha Smith says the new film is a Catholic-themed thriller with an air of humanity amidst lofty themes of division and decision.
Reviews
Review: Tobe Nwigwe's 'HOOD HYMNS' is a grown-folks Christian hip-hop album to remember
The Catholic-raised Houstonian brings truly unmitigated urban flair on a churchy release that will nevertheless raise some eyebrows with its content.
Review: 'The Deliverance' brings fresh Black faith to horror genre
Briana Jansky says the new Lee Daniels flick integrates the African-American experience with a positive view of Christianity that's all too rare.
Another perspective on 'The Forge', an inspiring film for all Christians
Sr Stephanie Henry responds to a critical review of the new evangelical film, which promotes prayer, peer mentorship, and personal development.
Review: 'The Forge' is a Black Christian film with a conservative White ethos
The new Kendrick Brothers film aims to inspire with the theme of discipleship but lands awkwardly with an undercurrent of respectability politics.
Review: 'Kidnapped' tells sordid Catholic tale with drama, flair, and perhaps a bone to pick
The infamous Mortara Affair is centered in the Italian-language Cannes pick, which puts the Church hierarchy on trial for its sins of the past.
Review: 'In the Shadow of Freedom' makes justice work real for the people of God
Alessandra Harris' first nonfiction book covers the history of anti-Black racism in America and how Christians might respond with evidence and advocacy.
Review: 'Inside Out 2' is a fun, not-too-emotional adventure
Samantha Smith calls the new Disney/Pixar flick a well-made sequel that strikes the right chords—emotional and otherwise.
'Mass of the Ages', part 3: Cherry-picked, choppy, but charming at times
The last iteration in the pro-Latin Mass documentary trilogy is more of the same, featuring one side and flawed logic, but has a few bright spots.
Review: Donyale Luna doc gives due to Black Catholic fashion pioneer
An HBO Max film released in the fall showcases the nation's first Black supermodel, a troubled and triumphant Detroit-born force who broke barriers.
Review: 'A Symphony of Tiny Lights' illuminates Dr. John H. Francis, eco-justice pioneer
A new short doc on a planet-walking environmental activist—who once considered the monastery—does right by its subject and his love for the earth.
Review: 'Cabrini' strikes the right notes of nun's missions to America
Samantha Smith says the new Catholic flick is worth a watch, with strong acting and a compelling American story with an Italian twist.
Review: 'The Chosen' season 4 brings light, darkness, and a few oddities in between
The latest binge masterpiece is in theaters for now and packs quite a punch—though those looking for strict historical accuracy ought seek another.
Review: 'Bob Marley: One Love' is a passionate telling of musical greatness
Samantha Smith says a new biopic on the Jamaican reggae superstar handles his gravity well and benefits from a strong supporting cast.
Review: 'Origin' complicates the narrative, but with cinematic consequences
Ava DuVernay’s latest swings for the fences to bring a new angle to Black American history, but comes up short with a middling plot and unclear direction.
Review: 'American Fiction' an incisive, relatable film offering
Samantha Smith reviews a new Black film that's wowing critics and generating Oscar buzz with its timely themes and free-spirited storytelling.