John Hansen

Rope

Hitchcock smartly threads theatrical ‘Rope’ (1948)

On a Hitchcock kick (Movie review): An updated version could wring more twists and tension, but Hitchcock’s is a fascinating experiment.

Hercule Poirot's Silent Night

Hannah tries to get into the spirit with ‘Hercule Poirot’s Silent Night’

Book review: Unfortunately, this is the weakest of her first five Poirot books thanks to an implausible character’s unlikely actions.

Marple 12 New Mysteries

‘Marple: Twelve New Mysteries’ (2022) honors, expands character

Sleuthing Sunday (Book review): A dozen modern authors write Marple with an ease that will make you cozy next to the fireplace; plus, we get mild surprises.

Jack Frost

Unfunny horror-comedy ‘Jack Frost’ (1997) shouldn’t be thawed

Frightening Friday (Movie review): If a lump of coal isn’t bad enough for someone who’s been naughty, give them a copy of this movie.

Strangers on a Train

‘Strangers on a Train’ (1951) a first-class suspenser

On a Hitchcock kick (Movie review): Guy’s situation of having a bothersome person sit next to him is relatable but extreme in this classic thriller.

TMNT Season 4

Poor little rich cartoon: A look at the end of ‘TMNT’ Season 4 (1990)

‘TMNT’ flashback (TV review): The back half of CBS’ Season 4 includes minor hits, near misses, and bizarre missed opportunities for action figures.

Evil Dead Rise

‘Evil Dead Rise’ is … another ‘Evil Dead’ movie

Movie review: The saga’s fifth entry proves what we already knew: Digital special effects don’t have as much of an impact as practical.

Thin Man movie

‘Thin Man’ movie (1934) emphasizes stars, but I can’t blame it

Sleuthing Sunday (Movie review): Dashiell Hammett’s mystery is still there, but Powell and Loy steal the show. And that’s OK.

Mr. Monk's Last Case

‘Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie’ is not only for obsessives

Movie review: The art of solving murders with attention to detail is not stuck in the Aughts, as proven by Monk’s first on-screen case in 14 years.

Exorcist Believer

It’s hard to believe there was passion behind ‘Exorcist: Believer’

Movie review: It’s heretical to say this is the worst “Exorcist” film, but it’s pretty bad for a 50th anniversary legacy sequel.