John Hansen

Manhattan

‘Manhattan’ (1979) another winner from Allen, Keaton

Woody Wednesday (Movie review): It’s not at the level of “Annie Hall,” but it’s nice to have Allen and Keaton back, sharing the spotlight with the city.

‘Andromeda Strain’ (1969) launches a career, genre

Michael Crichton Monday (Book review): With its gripping reportage style, Crichton’s debut under his own name is the epitome of a techno-thriller.

The Seven Dials Mystery

‘Seven Dials Mystery’ (1929) a Bundle of fun

Sleuthing Sunday (Book review): Strong characters from Bundle to Battle make this one of Christie’s strongest ventures into international crime.

Sleepaway Camp sequels

‘Sleepaway Camp’ sequels (1988-89) coast on momentum

Frightening Friday (Movie reviews): Bruce Springsteen’s sister takes over the lead role in sequels that lack the odd charm of the original.

Seven

‘Seven’ (1995) is Fincher’s dirty, gorgeous masterpiece

Throwback Thursday (Movie review): The director paints NYC as such a cesspool that there’s no way anyone would want to set foot there after seeing “Seven.”

Interiors

Allen shows serious side in ‘Interiors’ (1978)

Woody Wednesday (Movie review): After a decade of comedies and romances, Woody Allen gets introspective in this somber character study.

Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous Season 2

‘Camp Cretaceous’ Season 2 mixes dino action, mystery

TV review: Season 2 offers lessons for kids about teamwork, trust and using each person’s skills. And the dinosaur action is outstanding.

The Andromeda Strain

‘Andromeda Strain’ movie (1971) seems longer than TV miniseries (2008)

Michael Crichton Monday (Movie and TV reviews): The film is a faithful adaptation of Crichton’s book, but the miniseries is better.

The Man in the Brown Suit

Christie explores globe in ‘Man in the Brown Suit’ (1924)

Sleuthing Sunday (Book review): Starring plucky heroine Anne Beddingfeld, this is one of Christie’s standout world-hopping adventures.

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre

‘Texas Chain Saw Massacre’ (1974) a prime cut of horror

Frightening Friday (Movie review): Tobe Hooper’s film is so well-made that audiences didn’t know how to take it upon its release.