k.d. lang - "Constant Craving"

Recently, inspired by a colleague getting ready to celebrate his 50th high school reunion, I started thinking about the songs that defined my high school years. Not the best songs, but the songs that left an impression. Somewhere in the mix has to be this k.d. lang track, which probably remains her most enduring. I haven't listened to it in forever, but when I popped it on right now, it still soared.

'The Screen Podcast': Praising Cannes' Hidden Gems

I was back on Screen International's podcast, hosted by the delightful Wendy Mitchell, to discuss three movies that I feel were overlooked at Cannes. (In a separate segment, my colleague Wendy Ide offers three different picks from the festival.) You can check out our recommendations below.

'Masters of the Universe' Review

I wouldn't go so far as to say that I liked Masters of the Universe. But I do think it's trying to do some interesting things, and I appreciated the effort. My review is up at Screen International. 

The Grierson & Leitch Podcast: 'Backrooms,' 'The Breadwinner' and 'Exotica'

I return home from Cannes and immediately watch the worst movie of the year. On the podcast, we talk about The Breadwinner and dig deep into the A24 horror sensation Backrooms. Then, we go back to 1994 to reconsider Exotica and the once-promising career of Atom Egoyan. Check out the latest episode down below.

Sonny Rollins - "St. Thomas"

Rest in peace to the Saxophone Colossus.

My Interview With Ashley Padilla

I had the best time talking to Ashley Padilla, one of my favorite Saturday Night Live cast members. We discussed her time at the Groundlings and her memories of working for Diane Keaton. You can read my piece here.  

(Photo by Sela Shiloni.)  

The Film Comment Podcast: 'The Dreamed Adventure,' 'The Devils' and More

 
I was pleased to be back on Film Comment's podcast with Devika Girish, Justin Chang and Jessica Kiang for the final night of Cannes. We dug deep into The Dreamed Adventure, The Birthday Party, Coward and Ken Russell's The Devils. You can hear our conversation down below.

The Grierson & Leitch Podcast: Reviewing 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' and 'I Love Boosters,' Looking Back at Cannes

I'm back. On Sunday, I caught up with this weekend's new releases and then did the podcast with Will. (I also talked a little about my Cannes experience.) You can hear our thoughts on baby Yodas and Boots Riley down below.

'Press Play With Madeleine Brand': Recapping the Cannes Film Festival

It was a treat to be on KCRW talking about the high points of this year's Cannes. You can hear me talk about All of a Sudden, Fjord and Minotaur (pictured) starting at the 39:50 mark.