The Film Yap

Audiences and critics didn’t quite know what to make of “The Master,” but it’s an ambitious if flawed piece of cinematic grandiosity. Continue reading →

Despite a slightly odd bit of casting, this ode to dysfunction, insecurity and endless politics among performers hits all the right notes. Continue reading →

In our new podcast, Austin Lugar and Christopher Lloyd attempt to puzzle out the hidden meanings — if any — behind the grandiose but head-scratching “The Master.” Continue reading →

Inevitability is a quality that may work when it comes to winning elections, but it turns otherwise promising political films into cinematic also-rans. Continue reading →

The best performance of Brad Pitt’s career brings this behind-the-game drama to life. Continue reading →

The polar opposite of populist fare, “Happiness” is a compelling look at the rotting “picket-fence American Dream.” Continue reading →

“The Ides of March” is a well-executed retread that impresses without ever surprising us. Continue reading →

Not a typical sports movie, but a deep and probing film that gives us a glimpse at the high-stakes games that happen off the baseball diamond. Continue reading →

“Synecdoche, New York,” — Charlie Kaufman’s tremendous directorial debut — continues Nick Rogers’ daily look back at the 365 best films of 2000-2009. Continue reading →

“State and Main” — David Mamet’s farcical, on-the-nose Hollywood satire — continues Nick Rogers’ daily look back at the 365 best films of 2000-2009. Continue reading →