Charade

⭐⭐⭐⭐ From the very first scene of Charade, Audrey Hepburn exudes effortless elegance and warmth, capturing your attention and holding it tightly. As Regina Lampert, a young widow swept into a whirlwind of danger and deception, Audrey masterfully balances vulnerability with sharp-witted charm. She makes it impossible not to root for her—or envy her impeccable Givenchy wardrobe. Watching her glide through Paris feels like witnessing … Continue reading Charade

Gods and Monsters

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Gods and Monsters, directed by Bill Condon, is a moving and visually stunning exploration of the final days of James Whale, the real-life director of Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein. While inspired by Whale’s life, the film is a fictional account of his last days, crafting a story about memory, identity, and the search for connection. Set in the 1950s, the film follows Whale (Ian McKellen) as … Continue reading Gods and Monsters

Milk

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Gus Van Sant’s Milk isn’t just a movie—it’s a powerful story about bravery, love, and the fight for equality. It tells the true story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to public office in California, and it’s both inspiring and heartbreaking. Sean Penn’s incredible performance as Milk brings this story to life, showing us the struggles and triumphs of a man … Continue reading Milk

The playwright, the legend, the man: Harvey Fierstein

by Frank Gaimari I WAS BETTER LAST NIGHT: A MEMOIR HARVEY FIERSTEIN © 2022 Knopf, 400 pages At the start of my writing journey, brimming with dreams and youthful naivety, I sent my screenplay to Harvey Fierstein. I didn’t expect a response — he was Harvey Fierstein, after all, a Broadway legend, a Tony-winning playwright, a voice that could shake the heavens. But to my … Continue reading The playwright, the legend, the man: Harvey Fierstein

Freakier Friday

⭐⭐⭐⭐ In a world where movies often strive to outdo themselves with complex plots and high-stakes drama, Freakier Friday is a refreshing reminder of the joy that comes from a film that wants to entertain. Directed by Nisha Ganatra, this sequel to the 2003 hit, Freaky Friday, doesn’t just revisit the beloved body-swapping chaos—it reinvents it with a multigenerational twist that’s as heartwarming as it … Continue reading Freakier Friday

The Paramount Theatre: A century of applause

by Frank Gaiamri As a lifelong lover of the stage—whether it’s Broadway, concerts, or comedy—retirement has given me the chance to immerse myself in the magic of live performance in a way I never imagined. My name is Frank Gaimari, and as a published author and self-proclaimed theater enthusiast, I’ve always found solace and inspiration in the arts. So, when the opportunity arose to work … Continue reading The Paramount Theatre: A century of applause

My Own Private Idaho

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Here’s my take on My Own Private Idaho (1991), directed by Gus Van Sant. It’s a strange yet fascinating film that lingers long after you’ve watched it. At its heart, it’s about figuring out who you are and what it means to search for love and a sense of belonging. Keanu Reeves and River Phoenix both deliver incredible performances, making the story feel raw … Continue reading My Own Private Idaho