Matt's Musings

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. McMurphy : Get out of my way son, you're usin' my oxygen. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) Original List Position : 20 Starring : Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher Director : Milos Forman About: There are only three films in history that won Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay. This is one of them. That's rare air and this film certainly earns that. It's an iconic film in a lot of ways, even if it's not a fun watch because of the subject matter. It slid back to No. 33 in the re-done list a decade later. That's closer to my feeling on the film. I appreciate the performances and the way the s...

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. Laurie Henderson : [quoting from Curt] "It doesn't make sense to leave home to look for home, to give up a life to find a new life, to say goodbye to friends you love just to find new friends." American Graffiti (1973) Original List Position : 77 Starring : Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, Harrison Ford, Charles Martin Smith, and Cindy Williams Director: George Lucas About: There are certain films that fall into the arena of rite-of-passage. That's certainly the case with American Graffiti. Four years before George Lucas changed science fiction, he offered this sweet, amusing, and timeless film about youth and a certain period of life. It landed a...

  We’ve made it to August, which means the NFL Season is just around the corner! Over the course of the month, I’ll be previewing each of the division races, looking at the teams in order of finish from 2025. Below, we continue with the AFC South. Let’s dive in! Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4) About : The Jaguars had just about everything break right for them in 2025. The team got a career year from Trevor Lawrence, while the Texans struggled early and the Colts struggled late. The Jaguars won 13 games and surged into the playoffs, where they fell in the Wild Card Round to the Buffalo Bills. This off-season, the team lost Travis Etienne, who signed with the Saints. That leaves a hole in the backfield. I am not sold on Bhayshul Tuten as a workhorse, though there aren't a lot of options. In the passing game, there are questions around Brian Thomas, Jr., while Travis Hunter will be the team's starting corner, meaning a diminished role likely on offense. That could mean bigger things f...

 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 ...

  We’ve made it to August, which means the NFL Season is just around the corner! Over the course of the month, I’ll be previewing each of the division races, looking at the teams in order of finish from 2025. Below, we continue with the NFC South. Let’s dive in! Carolina Panthers (8-9) About : The Panthers backed into the division title and the playoffs. Three teams finished tied, all one game under .500, and the Panthers were the tie-break winner. They lost in the Wild Card Round, but they made it. A lot of this season will depend on the continued evolution of Bryce Young and the offense. He has a true No. 1 receiver in Tet McMillan, but the rest of the offense has some questions. Last year seemed like the best-case scenario for the team. I don't know that they luck out again. Prediction : The Panthers will finish around the same place, with eight or nine wins, and likely be short of the playoffs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9) About : The Buccaneers started hot and faded quickly. Inj...

  There were a lot of interesting films released the first weekend in August. Below is my take on the new movies I saw. You can keep up with everything I'm watching by following me on Letterboxd @knighthawk7734. Cookie Queens (Limited) Synopsis : There is an activity that is practically a right-of-passage each Winter. It’s when Girl Scout Cookies go on sale. Many people wait all year for those few short weeks when those cookies will be available for purchase and mass consumption. But how much time do you spend thinking about those who are selling the cookies? The new documentary Cookie Queens follows a few Girl Scouts around the country as they embark on the annual tradition. Some are veterans who are trying to set new personal bests, some have a vested interest in using the fundraiser money for camp, and some are just getting started. But all of them are trying their best to peddle their wares at a fever pitch over a short span of time. The film follows a quartet of sellers, track...

The first part of August has been a robust time for new series as networks, streamers, and cable channels try to get in that last gasp of summer. But what of the 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: The annual Hard Knocks look at a team’s pre-season preparation begins, this time with the reigning Super Bowl champions. The first episode is about setting the stage for what’s to come, with the Seahawks being a successful team that’s relatively stable. The first episode celebrated the success of last year while getting ready for what’s to come. I enjoyed the peak behind the curtain, and I think this could be a fun installment. For fans of the NFL, this is what you’re looking to see! The series continues w...

  We’ve made it to August, which means the NFL Season is just around the corner! Over the course of the month, I’ll be previewing each of the division races, looking at the teams in order of finish from 2025. Below, we continue with the AFC North. Let’s dive in! Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) About : The Steelers won the AFC North and made the playoffs with Aaron Rodgers in 2025. But it wasn't their greatest performance. The division was a slog, and while the Steelers outlasted the rest their playoff run was short-lived. That led to Mike Tomlin stepping down, being replaced by Mike McCarthy. The Steelers pumped up the offense this off-season, adding Michael Pittman in trade and drafting Germie Bernard. They also added Rico Dowdle to the backfield, and brought back Rodgers. Will it be enough to make the playoffs again? How about just having a more exciting offense? It's possible, but hardly a lock. Prediction : I think the Steelers are in the mix in the AFC North but fall short of t...

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. Trent : I don't want you to be the guy in the PG-13 movie everyone's *really* hoping makes it happen. I want you to be like the guy in the rated R movie, you know, the guy you're not sure whether or not you like yet. You're not sure where he's coming from. Okay? You're a bad man. You're a bad man, Mikey. You're a bad man, bad man. Swingers Starring: Jon Favreau and Vince Vaughn Director: Doug Liman About : You're so money and you don't even know it! We've all had a friend like Trent, and Vaughn plays the part perfectly here. Before Favreau was known for his directing prowess, and his connection to Star Wars, he was Mikey in Liman's film. Favreau wrote the film, so it makes sense he has a good feel for the material. I was never the...

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. Don Jose: We all dream of being a child again, even the worst of us. Perhaps the worst most of all. The Wild Bunch (1969) Original List Position : 80 Starring : William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, and Robert Ryan Director : Sam Peckinpah About : This is a good, old-fashioned Western. It's violent and focuses on the wild element of the West. It's been an action movie favorite over the years for that reason. It lands at No. 80 on the original list, staying relatively consistent at No. 79 on the revised list a decade later. I enjoy the action and the performances here. The story holds your attention and I like the way it's put together. This is a solid, cla...

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. John Prentice : Dad... You're my father. I'm your son. I love you. I always have, and I always will. But you think of yourself as a colored man. I think of myself as a man. Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967) Original List Position : 99 Starring : Sydney Poitier, Spencer Tracy, and Katherine Hepburn Director : Stanley Kramer About: This is an interesting film. It was timely when it was released and its theme still resonate, though differently, today. It barely made the original list, clocking in at No. 99. When the list was revised a decade later, it was left off entirely. I can see why, I guess, but as you can see from my ranking it's a movie I h...

 We’ve made it to August, which means the NFL Season is just around the corner! Over the course of the month, I’ll be previewing each of the division races, looking at the teams in order of finish from 2025. Below, we continue with the NFC North. Let’s dive in! Chicago Bears (11-6) About : The Bears rose above the fray in a division where all four teams were above .500. The first year under Ben Johnson was a success but the Bears have hopes of going further in 2026. The team clarified its offense by moving on from D.J. Moore, which means it's all about Rome Odunze, Luther Burden, and tight end Colston Loveland. Caleb Williams was brilliant at times, but needs to work on his accuracy. Still, the Bears will be fun to watch and fun to roster in fantasy. Prediction: The Bears will compete for an NFC North Title and return to the playoffs. Green Bay Packers (9-7-1) About : The Packers entered last year as a Super Bowl favorite and it never quite turned out that way. The team struggled ...

 Since 2002, we’ve seen three men play Peter Parker in a total of eight live-action films. The most recent is Tom Holland, who in his last installment brought all of the other spider-men and their iconic villains back together. It was a huge moment, and one that changed our latest Peter’s life forever. He had to choose to let everyone forget him in order to save the world. That film was a big piece of the post-Avengers Marvel Cinematic Universe. And it left one of the most popular stars seemingly isolated. With Holland returning for a fourth film—something no other Spider-Man has done—the question was how do we move forward? This is also the first of the Holland films without Jon Watts in the director’s chair. But is this Brand New Day worth checking out? The answer is a resounding yes. The film finds Peter in the immediate aftermath of where he was left in his last film. He’s alone, no one remembers him, but Spider-Man is still the savior of the city. He finds a place to set up a ...

  We’re done with July and on to August. Summer is coming to a close and it’s just about time for Fall. But before the torrent of Fall begins, we have a few last series staking their claim on Summer. But what of these new shows 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. Thursdays: Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, Streaming Thursdays on HBO Max (Premiered July 23) About: This spin-off of the Big Bang Theory is a wild departure from the original series. And yet, from a casting perspective, it’s the most closely tied spin-off to the original. It centers on four peripheral characters from the show—Stuart (Kevin Sussman), Bert (Brian Posehn), Barry (John Ross Bowie) and Denise (Lauren Lapkus)—on a series of adventures through the multi-verse. We learn in the pilot it’s due to a device created by Sheldon, Leonard, and Howard, but those th...

 We’ve made it to August, which means the NFL Season is just around the corner! Over the course of the month, I’ll be previewing each of the division races, looking at the teams in order of finish from 2025. Below, we continue with the AFC West. Let’s dive in! Denver Broncos (13-4) About: The Broncos finished first in the AFC West and the AFC, but an injury to Bo Nix in the Divisional Round led to a loss in the AFC Championship Game. That was tough, but the Broncos are poised for another run in 2026. Nix is back healthy, and the Broncos added Jaylen Waddle to provide more pop in the passing game. The team also added Jonah Coleman to provide depth in the backfield. With a strong defense and a good team overall, the Broncos are contenders. Prediction: This team will be in the mix to win the AFC West again and make the AFC Playoffs. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) About: The Chargers fell short last season, leading to some changes. Mike McDaniel is in as Offensive Coordinator, hoping to ...

 We’ve made it to August, which means the NFL Season is just around the corner! Over the course of the month, I’ll be previewing each of the division races, looking at the teams in order of finish from 2025. Below, we start with the NFC West. Let’s dive in! Seattle Seahawks (14-3) About: The Seahawks won the NFC West, won the NFC, then won the Super Bowl. So, you know, they did pretty well! The Seahawks also didn’t have a ton of changes, which helps. Sam Darnold is back at quarterback, with all his primary receivers—Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Rashid Shaheed, and Cooper Kupp, along with tight end A.J. Barner. But the team lost Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker, who is now on the Chiefs. Still, the team has Zach Charbonnet, who is recovering from a torn ACL, and rookie Jadarian Price to carry the load. That combined with a mostly returned defense should help. I think the Seahawks are still going to be a strong team. Prediction: The Seahawks will still make the playoffs, but I don’t know if they...

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. Stanley Goodspeed : Well, I'm one of those fortunate people who like my job, sir. Got my first chemistry set when I was seven, blew my eyebrows off, we never saw the cat again, been into it ever since. The Rock Starring : Nicholas Cage, Ed Harris, and Sean Connery Director : Michael Bay About: Look, I'm an unabashed fan of Bay and his filmmaking, but this is one of his more universally praised films. This was his second feature, coming years before he became the man behind Transformers . It's got a great cast and the action of the film works well. I like the story and the way that it all comes together. It's an iconic action film that remains a classic for fans and for those love a good, late-night cable classic.

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. Gold Hat : Badges? We ain't got no badges. We don't need no badges. I don't have to show you any stinking badges. The Treasure of Sierra Madre (1948) Original List Position : 30 Starring : Humphrey Bogart and Walter Huston Director : John Huston About : Bogart was a classic leading man who starred in several iconic films, some of which are on this list. Sierra Madre is one of his most famous, and one of the better Westerns on the list. It was ranked No. 30 on the original list, sliding to No. 38 a decade later. It's pretty close to where I have it here. This is a movie I remember seeing as a teenager. My dad was a big fan of Bogart, showing me som...