Cannes 2024: 'Being Maria' Review

Maria Schneider was a teenager trying to establish herself as an actor. Then, she landed her big break as the lead opposite Marlon Brando in Last Tango in Paris. But what happened afterward ended up traumatizing her. For Screen International, I reviewed the bittersweet biopic Being Maria.

What Are the Best Films of the 1970s?

Rolling Stone asked me and others to send in ballots for the best 1970s movies. Then, the editors put together a list of the top 100 and had us write up capsules. You can read me on Harlan County U.S.A., Carnal Knowledge, A Woman Under the Influence, Stalker, Scenes From a Marriage, The Last Waltz and The Godfather here.

What James Caan Brought to 'The Godfather'

In honor of James Caan's passing, Rolling Stone asked me to write about his impact on The Godfather, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. It was my honor to do so.

Weighing 'The Offer'

I probably enjoyed this silly, shallow Paramount+ series more than most. But this dramatized look at the making of The Godfather isn't without serious flaws. My piece is up at MEL.

The Grierson & Leitch Podcast: 'The Godfather' and 'Brewster McCloud'

Two very different 1970s movies, but both so good. We talked about each of them on this week's episode. Plus, we discuss the future of theaters. Check out the whole thing down below.

When Directors Try Their Hand at Musicals

Steven Spielberg has made his first musical with West Side Story. For MEL, I looked at the track record of other major filmmakers and their one musical: Did they ace the assignment? Read on.

Marlon Brando 101

If you were going to start your Marlon Brando education, what movies should you see? For MEL, I did a twist on that question, offering up the movies (and more) that best represent his legacy. That means they're aren't necessarily the best, but they're where to begin. Hope you enjoy.