John Hansen

Defendor

Harrelson’s ‘Defendor’ (2009) a rare mentally challenged hero

Superhero Saturday (Movie review): “Defendor” isn’t perfect, but Woody Harrelson and Kat Dennings make this unusual superhero film quite watchable.

Psycho III

Diminishing returns kick in with ‘Psycho III’ (1986)

‘Psycho’-analysis (Movie review): Now directing and starring, Anthony Perkins shows us a few new things in this middle-of-the-road third entry.

Empire Records

‘Empire Records’ (1995) no longer overshadowed by its music

Throwback Thursday (Movie review): Upon its release, “Empire Records” was known for its soundtrack. Now the whole film is starting to be appreciated.

Psycho II

‘Psycho II’ (1983) more than a slasher-era cash grab

‘Psycho’-analysis (Movie review): Thanks to Anthony Perkins’ performance, this is a rare 1980s horror sequel that smartly builds on the original.

Christmas Vacation 2

‘Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure’ (2003) has few laughs

Hughes Day Tuesday (Movie review): Many people are unaware there is a sequel to National Lampoon’s “Christmas Vacation.” They are the lucky ones.

Divine Invasions

Sutin’s ‘Divine Invasions’ (1989) is definitive PKD bio

PKD flashback (Book review): With “Divine Invasions: A Life of Philip K. Dick,” Lawrence Sutin delivers the core biography of the legendary and troubled author.

Christmas Chronicles 2

Cute ‘Christmas Chronicles 2’ could use more humor

Movie review: This Netflix children’s-movie sequel will make adults feel good in the moment, even if we soon forget the details.

Brimstone

P&C’s ‘Brimstone’ (2004) a devilishly fun read

Preston & Child flashback (Book review): The authors tiptoe into the Diogenes Trilogy with the pleasing re-teaming of Pendergast and D’Agosta.

The New Mutants

‘X-Men’ finale ‘New Mutants’ taps into old story

Movie review: Fox’s “X-Men” film saga ends with a relative whimper despite “The New Mutants’ ” standout cast and intriguing influences.

Psycho 1960

Hitchcock’s ‘Psycho’ (1960) a masterpiece of tension

‘Psycho’-analysis (Movie review): Hitchcock’s horror classic is a masterpiece of slowly ratcheting tension — and that’s before we even meet Norman Bates.