Matt's Musings

 Some interesting films dropped for the middle of August. Below is my take on the new movies I saw this week. You can keep up with everything I’m watching by following me on Letterboxd @knighthawk7734. The End of Oak Street (Theaters) Starring: Ewan McGregor, Anne Hathaway, Maisy Stella, and Christian Convery Synopsis : Back in 2014, David Robert Mitchell created something fascinating in the horror genre. His film, It Follows, was unlike anything I had seen. That was the case for many, as it became something of a phenomenon. It put him on the map in a new way and became a cult classic in the horror genre. Now, 12 years later, he’s back with a new film that could do the same for the science fiction and adventure genre. It’s a film that bends expectations with a rich story, a cool concept, and some great performances. And it’s a gem to end the summer movie season. The End of Oak Street presents us with a typical American family. It’s near the end of summer in 1982, and on the surfac...

 We’re near the end of summer, and yet we’re still getting new series. As you’re spending the dog days of summer by the air conditioning, you might be wondering what of these new series is worth your time to check out. Let this weekly post be your guide as I review the pilot and second episode of new series this summer. Don’t see a new show listed below? Check previous weeks. Tuesdays: Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Seattle Seahawks, Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on HBO (Premiered August 4) About: This annual rite-of-passage is a way to get ready for the upcoming season. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the preparation of the players and coaches. And usually, it’s about a team with a lot to prove. This year’s addition is following the Super Bowl champions, which gives it a different kind of feel. I really enjoyed the look at the Seahawks’ training camp and learning more about the behind-the-scenes process this off-season. Each installment is different and will likely appeal to fans of a...

  Pre-Season, Week 1 : Denver Broncos 27, Atlanta Falcons 7 Pre-Season Record: 1-0 (0-0 Home) Key Play : In the second quarter, with the Broncos already up 17-0, Jahdae Barron intercepted a pass from Cooper Rush and took it back 97 yards for a touchdown, putting the Broncos up 24-0 in the first half. Recap: The Broncos came into Friday's pre-season opener on a win streak in the pre-season. They hadn't lost a game in a few years, and nothing changed Friday night. The Broncos scored with the First Team/Starters, led by Jarrett Stidham, and ended up with a 24-0 lead after one half. The second half was slower, but the defense only allowed a single score, aided by a Broncos' turnover. The team cruised to victory and the streak is in tact. We got a look at some new players and it was a good start for the team's 2026 season. Game Balls: * Courtland Sutton . The veteran wasted no time showing he has the goods, catching three passes for 60 years. * Riley Moss and Jahdae Barron...

It's hard to believe, but 1996 was 30 years ago. Over the next few weeks I'm going to be looking at some stand out films from 1996 that are turning 30 in 2026. Today, it's the start of a franchise. Marge Gunderson : [to Gaear] So, that was Mrs. Lundegaard on the floor in there. And I guess that was your accomplice in the wood chipper. And those three people in Brainerd. And for what? For a little bit of money? There's more to life than a little money, you know. Don'tcha know that? And here ya are, and it's a beautiful day. Well. I just don't understand it. Fargo Starring : Frances McDormand, Steve Buscemi, Peter Stormare, and William H. Macy Director : Joel and Ethan Coen About: This is a classic Coen Brothers tale, one that was nominated for Best Picture. This is a classic story and a classic set of performances. It inspired an anthology series on the small screen, too. I love McDormand and Macy in these roles, and the crime-gone-wrong motif that became so...

Back in 1998, the American Film Institute unveiled its list of the 100 greatest films as voted on by members of the cinematic community. The year, I'm looking at the films on that list, re-ranked according to my preference. Check back Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year as we walk through this list of classic films. Sherif Ali : Truly, for some men nothing is written unless THEY write it. Lawrence of Arabia (1962) Original List Position : 5 Starring : Peter O'Toole and Omar Sharif Director: David Lean About: This is an epic that has become a timeless classic for many. It landed at No. 5 on the original list and down to just No. 7 10 years later. It continues to endure and get theatrical screenings, finding new fans and audiences each year. I like the film and I appreciate the craft and the effort. I don't love it as much as some, which is why it's a bit lower for me. But Lean was a master craftsman, and this film is reflective of his great skill and care as a di...

Back in 1998, the American Film Institute unveiled its list of the 100 greatest films as voted on by members of the cinematic community. The year, I'm looking at the films on that list, re-ranked according to my preference. Check back Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year as we walk through this list of classic films. Jefferson Smith : You see, boys forget what their country means by just reading The Land of the Free in history books. Then they get to be men they forget even more. Liberty's too precious a thing to be buried in books, Miss Saunders. Men should hold it up in front of them every single day of their lives and say: I'm free to think and to speak. My ancestors couldn't, I can, and my children will. Boys ought to grow up remembering that. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) Original List Position : 29 Starring : Jimmy Stewart Director : Frank Capra About : It's largely regarded that 1939 was one of the great movie years. This film is part of what made ...