Classics: A Review of East of Eden By Lauren Ennis

None of us can choose how we begin our lives. As we enter this world we do so without any say over where, when, how, or with whom we will do so. We cannot control the circumstances of our birth or the histories and cycles of the families that we are born into. What we do have control over is what we choose to do with those circumstances. Through three tumultuous generations of the Trask family John Steinbeck's 1952 classic East of Eden explores that very choice and the owe that each of us has to change our lives if we only choose to do so. The novel's latest adaptation brings the timeless tale of family, love, loss, fate, and ultimately choice to brilliant life. Choose your own adventure with the Trasks in East of Eden.

The story begins in Civil War-era Connecticut with young Adam and Charles Trask competing with one another for their father's attention. As they reach adolescence, their rivalry spirals into an outright feud as the boy's father forces Adam to fulfill Charles' dream of joining the military while Charles is relegating to working the farm that Adam had hoped would be his. Upon their father's death, the brothers briefly reconcile only to be torn apart once again by the arrival of a mysterious woman. The trio are then set upon a path of rejection, rivalry, and self-destruction that will carry down to the next generation. The new generation is then faced with the choice of repeating the bitter cycles of the past or forging their own path.

Adapting a classic is never easy, let alone one that spans several hundred pages and three generations. As a result, news of Netflix's East of Eden was met with mixed reactions from fans of the novel and 1955 film adaptation alike. Thankfully, the Trask family legacy is in safe hands with director Zoe Kazan. Taking full advantage of its seven episode run time, the series explores all three generations of the Trask family and those closest to them. As a result, rather than the tale of one father and his angsty adolescent sons that the 1955 film presented miniseries is instead a universal exploration of the cycles of, to paraphrase Lee, rejection, anger, and revenge that define the story of mankind. Even as it delves into timeless universal themes, the series still utilizes its length to ensure that each of its characters are fully developed and given time to shine. By showcasing supporting characters that the 1955 film either removed or minimized the series creates a broader, more immersive, world for the Trasks to interact with. Similarly, the focus upon individual characters ensures that despite the story's allegorical trappings none of the characters are reduced to caricatures or archetypes. As a result, each choice that the characters make hold a weight that ensure the story's tear-jerker ending is both satisfying and earned. Join the Trask family and discover the love, loss, devastation, and redemption that lie East of Eden.

"Do you mean that in the whole world there's only evil and folly?"

Steinbeck's masterpiece is brought to devastating life thanks to the stellar work of its star-studded cast. Mike Faist balances charisma and cynicism as family black sheep, Charles. Ciaran Hinds has the gift of gab as the Trask's jovial, but level-headed, neighbor Sam Hamilton. Joe Anders adds a darker dimension to fair-haired son Aron. Christopher Abbott aptly shows how Adam's admirable idealism spirals into a dangerous refusal to contend with the life's realities. Joseph Zada portrays Cal's desperate efforts to resist his inner demons and need for acceptance with gut-wrenching emotion. Hoon Lee steals each scene in which he appears and acts as the series' beating heart as the Trask family's servant turned teacher and surrogate father, Lee. Florence Pugh offers an acting masterclass in her by turns chilling, charismatic, and in brief moments surprisingly human portrayal of sociopathic Trask family matriarch, Cathy. 

Over the course of its seven episodes East of Eden brings Steinbeck's masterpiece to by turns brutal and beautiful life. The script relates over seven hundred pages novel without sacrificing either its quiet character moments or epic scope. The performances bring each of the characters to visceral, haunting, life. Discover the choices that await somewhere East of Eden.

Classics: A Review of The Omen By Lauren Ennis

 When discussing baby names with prospective parents there is one name that most certainly does not come up; Damien. Since 1976 the name Damien has become synonymous with evil and every parent's nightmare. At once a chilling supernatural thriller and an unnerving exploration of the dark side of parenting The Omen remains every bit as ominous it was upon its release. This Halloween, face every family's worst fears in The Omen.

The story begins with American diplomat Robert Thorn seeking counsel from priest Father Spiletto after learning that his first child was stillborn. While he knows that he should tell his hospitalized wife, Katherine, the truth he fears that the loss will will make her health deteriorate even further. The priest offers a solution that is too tempting to resist; adopt an orphaned newborn in the church's custody and pass it off to Katherine as their own. Robert gives in to the temptation and brings infant Damien into his family without Katherine being any the wiser. Years pass and Damien grows into a healthy boy. As his fifth birthday approaches, however, strange events begin plaguing the family. Local priest Father Brennan approaches Robert with a terrible explanation; that the boy he has raised is in fact the anti-Christ. Robert dismisses the priest's warning as the rants of a madman until a series of gruesome deaths occur which lead him to question Damien's true identity. He then finds himself in a race against time to uncover Damien's origins before its too late for Robert, Katherine, and the world.

The Omen did for parenting what Jaws did for the beach and Psycho did for showers. While many films have utilized the tired 'creepy kid' trope, few films have explored parents' all too real fears with the nuance and terror of The Omen. For example, Katherine is unable to fully embrace Damien as her own own. The more that she tries to love him as her own the more that she grows to fear and despise him. The pair's strained relationship mirrors that of many mothers who struggle to bond with their children and captures the fears of many expectant mothers. Similarly, while Robert is aware that Damien is not his biological son he is still dismayed when the boy begins systematically rejecting the values and morals that Robert and Katherine have tried to instill in him. Through its depiction of Robert's struggles to reconcile the terror in front of him with the boy he raised the film reminds us that despite every advantage of nature and nurture there is no guarantee that a child will grow into the adult that their parents hope they will be. When he learns Damien's true origins he is faced with the most devastating realization of all; that regardless of his efforts to provide a loving and stable home for Damien the boy is a force of evil that he and Katherine have unwittingly unleashed upon the world. His anguish at this revelation eerily echoes the dismay and remorse of parents whose children have gone on to commit heinous acts. In its portrayal of Robert and Katherine's inability to stop Damien the film brings every parent's worst nightmare to visceral, gut-wrenching, life. This Halloween, face the fear waiting at across the dinner table in The Omen.

The film brings its sinister story to life thanks to the stellar work of its cast. Marting Bensom aptly conveys the false charm of Father Spiletto. Patrick Troughton perfectly captures Father Brennan's desperation. David Warner exemplifies dogged determination as photographer Keith Jennings. Billie Whitelaw is the most frightening thing in domestic service since Mrs. Danvers as nanny Mrs. Baylock. Lee Remick captures Katherine's torment at her growing fear of and hatred towards Damien. Harvey Spencer Stephens perfectly balances Damien's image of innocence with his inner malevolence. Gregory Peck turns in one of the best performances of his career in a role that is a portrait of parental anguish. 

Blending supernatural thrills with real world chills The Omen remains as ominously relevant now as it was upon its release. The script uses its familiar, supernatural, premise to explore the everyday fears of failure that lurk in many a parent's heart. The cast bring the story to haunting life. This Halloween, discover the horror of the pitter patter of little feet with Damien in The Omen.

Just a cute little bundle...of trouble

Classics: A Review of The Devil's Advocate By Lauren Ennis

 "You can't win 'em all" a reporter taunts up and coming attorney Kevin Lomax. What price would you play to win them all? This is the question that lies at the heart of 1993's The Devil's Advocate. Part supernatural thriller, part courtroom drama, and part morality tale, the film raises vital questions that continue to resonate now more with each passing year. This October wrestle with your demons and dance with the devil in The Devil's Advocate.

The story begins with hot-shot Florida attorney Kevin Lomax defending a case. The normally self-assured Kevin finds himself wracked with doubt when he learns that his client is guilty of sexually abuse a young student. Forced to choose between his career and his conscience, he opts to keep the case. After securing a shocking 'not guilty' verdict he is approached with a job offer from a prominent law firm. Tempted by the firm's promises of wealth and prestige he eagerly accepts and moved to New York City with his wife, Mary Anne. All that glitters quickly proves to be less than gold, however, as he is assigned increasingly morally dubious cases and his work schedule begins to take a toll on his marriage. Further complicating matters is Kevin's charismatic boss, the mysterious John Milton. As Kevin's professional star ascends his personal life collapses, forcing him to question just who exactly he is working for an at what cost.

The Devil's Advocate sets itself apart from other supernatural thrillers by taking its protagonist on a descent into hell while acknowledging that the journey is entirely of his own making. Throughout the film, Kevin is provided with opportunities to change course which he consistently rejects. He also refuses the help and advice of those around him, all in pursuit of his professional ambitions. When he finally learns Milton's true identity he insists that his boss coerced and manipulated him. As Milton aptly reminds him, however, Kevin has only himself and his own vanity to blame. Through its depiction of the process of Kevin's corruption, the film explores the notion free will and the cost of ambition. The film also aptly delves into the banality of evil as Kevin doggedly assists his violent, dangerous, and sadistic client's in their efforts to secure freedom all in the name of 'just doing his job'. In this way, the film forces us to confront the moral and ethical dilemmas in our own lives and question if our motives are really as innocent as we think. As a result, even when the plot crosses into supernatural territory the characters and their actions remain unsettlingly grounded in the moral and ethical questions of our own world. Take a look into our own darkness when you play The Devil's Advocate.

The film's star-studded cast bring the story to sinister life. Jeffrey Jones personifies sleaze as Kevin's envious colleague, Eddie. Judith Ivey perfectly captures the torment of Kevin's repentant mother, Alice. Craig T. Nelson aptly conveys the callousness of Kevin's client, murderous billionaire Alex Cullen. Connie Nielson blends sultry with sinister as Kevin's tempting coworker, Christabella. Charlize Theron is nothing short of haunting in her gripping portrayal of Mary Anne's descent into mental illness. Keanu Reeves's portrayal of Kevin's all-consuming ambition is nothing short of chilling. Al Pacino steals each scene in which he appears as the alternatingly charismatic and calculating John Milton.

The Devil's Advocate blends the elements of supernatural thrillers with courtroom drama to relate a brutal modern morality tale. The script serves of plenty of thrills and chills while still raising vital questions surrounding ethics, ambition, and free will. The cast turn in performances that continue to treat viewers to a devilishly good time. This October, take a walk on the dark side with The Devil's Advocate.

Classics: A Review of Muppet Treasure Island By Lauren Ennis

 On August 26, 2026 Tim Curry passed away at the age of eighty. In tribute to his legendary career, this week I'll be turning the spotlight onto the film that introduced me to his work, 1996's adventure-comedy Muppet Treasure Island. This crowd pleaser blends the adventure of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel with the madcap hijinks of the Muppets. What ensues is an adaptation for the whole family. Set sail with Kermit, Piggy, and Tim Curry in Muppet Treasure Island.

The story begins in 1700's England with orphan Jim Hopkins working at a local inn. When he isn't working, he spends his days listening to customers' tales of life on the high seas, especially ex-pirate Billy Bones' stories of Captain Flint's buried treasure. One night, Bones' former shipmates arrive and deliver the 'black spot', signaling that they have marked him for execution. Panicked, Bones has a heart attack on the spot. As he lay dying he gives Jim a map to Captain Flint's treasure with orders to keep it safe from a mysterious 'one-legged man'. With the help of half-witted Squire Trelawney Jim and his friends Gonzo and Rizzo et sail for the Carribbean. The friends are quickly befriended by the ship's charming, one-legged, cook, Long John Silver. Silver manipulates Jim into giving him the map and later takes him hostage. What follows is the ultimate swashbuckling showdown between Silver's pirates and the ship's crew.

Blending classic literature with whimsy and slapstick Muppet Treasure Island is a firm reminder that the Muppets is one of those rare franchises that truly is fun for the whole family. The film remains largely faithful to the original novel and captures the spirit of adventure that made it a classic. The film refuses to talk down to its young viewers and ensures that the story's darker elements remain intact. In this way, the film offers a family friendly means through which to explore such mature themes as greed, disillusionment, and betrayal. Even as it relates its high action adventure, the film still offers plenty of laughs courtesy of the Muppets signature mayhem. Alternating between standard slapstick and 90's commentary and literary spoof, the film's unique blend of action and humor ensures that parents will be entertained alongside their kids. For 'something better' for viewers of all ages, answer the call to adventure in Muppet Treasure Island.

The film transports viewers to the high seas thanks to the stellar work of its cast. Jennifer Saunders is nothing short of 'absolutely fabulous' in her brief turn as stern but kind inn-keeper Mrs. Bluveridge. Billy Connolly turns in a hilariously hammy performance as drunken ex-pirate Billy Bones. Kevin Bishop infuses Jim with idealism and integrity. Even in the midst of the Muppets madcap antics Tim Curry dominates the film as the equal parts smooth and sinister Long John Silver.

Balancing high adventure with hijinks Muppet Treasure Island is truly fun for the whole family. The script relates a largely faithful adaptation of the classic novel while infusing it with just enough of the Muppets' anarchic spirit to keep even the youngest of viewers engaged. The live-action and voice cast alike bring Stevenson's iconic characters to colorful, fresh, life. For a hidden gem for your next family movie night join the treasure hunt on Muppet Treasure Island.

Classics: A Review of Steel Magnolias By Lauren Ennis

 On August 25, 2026 American icon Dolly Parton passed away at age 80. In honor of the beloved singer, songwriter, and actress I'll be turning the spotlight onto one of her most popular films; 1989's Steel Magnolias. This slice of life dramedy celebrates family, friendship, and southern culture at its most hospitable. Over three decades after its release, Steel Magnolias remains must-see viewing for mothers, daughters, and anyone who has ever needed a friend. 

The story begins in small-town Louisiana with recent arrival Annelle applying for a new job at local beautician Truvy's in-home salon. At the salon, Annell meets Truvy's colorful customers; wealthy widow Clairee, curmudgeon Ouiser, and mother-daughter duo M'Lynn and Shelby. The women welcome awkward outsider Annell into their circle and over the course of the following year the group face tragedy and triumph. Through it all, they find comfort and solace in their fellow steely-spined southern magnolias.

Through its earnest depiction of a group of friends facing life's everyday obstacles Steel Magnolias acts as an ode to the power of friendship. Each of the characters is confronted with varying degrees of adversity, but all of them find comfort and strength in each other. Even when they disagree, their support for one another remains unwavering. In their efforts to bolster each other's spirits through humor, gossip, and the occasional makeover the women demonstrate how we can all get by with a little help from our friends. Next time you need a friend have a girls day with the ladies of Steel Magnolias.

The film transports viewers to the coziness of a small southern town thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Darryl Hannah ditches her sultry image and is utterly convincing as straight-laced wallflower, Annelle. Shirley MacLaine steals each scene in which she appears as crotchety but ultimately good-hearted Ouiser. Olympia Dukakis blends sass with class as society widow Clairee. Julia Roberts balances rebelliousness with girl next door charm as willful Shelby. Sally Fields lends a by turns heartwarming and heartbreaking turn as overly protective M'Lynn. Dolly Parton is nothing short of delightful in her warm, witty, and ultimately inspiring portrayal of everyone's favorite confidante, Truvy.

This slice of Americana holds all the sweetness of a breath of fresh magnolias. The script brings Robert Harling's 1987 Broadway hit to vibrant, tear-jerking, life. The cast brings each of the characters to the screen with humor, warmth, and charm. When life gets you down treat yourself to some southern hospitality courtesy of the Steel Magnolias.

Classics: A Review of Lead Children By Lauren Ennis

"A doctor's responsibility doesn't stop at the clinic doors" physician Jolanta Wadowska-Krol declares. Netflix's 2026 critically acclaimed series chronicles just how far Dr. Wadowska-Krol was willing to go to expose the lead poisoning outbreak amongst her young patients. This true story of corruption, oppression, illness, and resilience proves that history can truly be more strange, devastating, and ultimately inspiring than fiction. Discover one of modern history's unsung heroes in Lead Children.

The story begins in 1974 Poland. The Cold War is at its height and the people are caught in the iron grip of communist oppression. After earning the ire of the state, idealistic doctor Jolanta is transferred to the working-class city of Szopience. When one of the children in her neighborhood collapses at a local fair she struggles to diagnose his mysterious illness. Soon after, she begins noticing that an unusual number of her pediatric patients are suffering from anemia. When the state begins hiding the ill children at facilities across the region she realizes that there are greater forces at play and launches her own investigation. She quickly confirms that the children are being poisoned by the lead emissions from the local metal smelter. When she brings her findings to the local authorities she earns the mistrust of the locals, who rely upon the smelter for their jobs, and security and state officials, who deem her a threat to the status quo. She then finds herself caught in web of political intrigue and bureaucratic corruption as she races against time to get the children treated before its too late.

Lead Children blends the best of medical dramas and political thrillers to shed vital light upon a largely forgotten chapter of history. Viewers begin the series fully aware that the children of Szopience are suffering from lead poisoning. Despite that spoiler, however, the depiction of Jolanta's investigation contains so many twists and turns that viewers will still be on the edge of their seats. Additionally, the series' portrayal of the impact of contamination upon the children and the community at large is nothing short of harrowing. While the series follows the familiar beats of such contamination related dramas as Erin Brokovich and A Civil Action it sets itself apart by placing its story within the greater context of communist oppression. By exposing the smelter's toxicity, Jolanta also exposes the corruption, negligence, and political machinations of the Soviet government, making her an enemy of the state. As a result, her life is every bit as at risk as those of her patients. In its portrayal of Jolanta's fearless efforts to resist state oppression and cure her patients, the series relates a tale of real-life heroism that serves as an apt reminder of the difference that one person can make. Discover one of history's most compelling unsung heroes in Lead Children.

The performances brilliantly bring the harrowing reality of life behind the iron curtain to the screen. Kinga Pries infuses Jolanta's friend and colleague nurse Wieslawa Wilczek with warmth and earnestness. Agata Kulesza captures the political savviness, intelligence, and determination of Jolanta's partner in her crusade, Professor Krystyna Berger. Zbigniew Zamachowski aptly portrays Jolanta's husband, Zbigniew Krol's, devotion to his wife and fears for his family with depth and nuance. Michal Zurawski blends calculation, callousness, and charm as secret police officer Hubert Niedziela. Even in the midst of superb supporting performances, Joanna Kulig dominates the series in her magnetic turn as Jolanta.

At once a harrowing look into the horrors of state oppression and a testament to the power of the human spirit Lead Children makes for six of the most compelling hours in modern television. The script brings a dark chapter of Poland's history to light with striking accuracy and devastating realism. The performances transport viewers to the gritty, contaminated, streets of Szponiece. Follow Jolanta on the trail of justice in Lead Children.

Classics: A Review of The Devil Wears Prada By Lauren Ennis

How far would you go to climb the corporate ladder? Is a staying at a toxic job today worth the opportunities it may bring tomorrow? Are you defined by your job? These are the questions that plague the modern professional and lie at the heart of the 2006 dramedy The Devil Wears Prada. Through its depiction of one employee's efforts to survive a hellish boss the film raises vital questions surrounding the modern workforce and the meaning of success. For devilish fun clock in with Andy and Miranda in The Devil Wears Prada.

 

The story begins with recent college grad Andy searching for her first job in journalism. While she dreams of writing hard-hitting exposes she reluctantly takes a job at high-end fashion magazine Runway. While she initially dismisses her position as a temporary resume builder, she soon finds herself swept into the ruthless world of high-fashion and under the influence of her manipulative boss, Miranda. What begins as a mere day job soon spirals into an all-consuming lifestyle as one by one each of Andy's personal relationships and passions are put aside in the name of meeting Miranda's impossible standards. Andy is ultimately forced to face her own demons and decide if she's willing to make a devilish deal with Miranda.

For a film about the elite world of high-fashion, The Devil Wears Prada continues to delight viewers across the work force and it's little wonder why. Andy's increasingly outrageous efforts to survive her toxic job lend themselves to plenty of laughs while still being all too relatable. Even as the film keeps the jokes coming, the script does not shy away from the darker truths about Andy's situation. For example, the film expertly depicts the ways in which a lack of work-life-balance can negatively impact our relationships as Andy prioritizes her job over her family, friendships, and love life. Over time, her dedication to her job becomes so extreme that she alters her appearance, personal hobbies, and interests all in an effort to be the best representative of Runway that she can be. While her efforts do allow her to advance at the magazine, they also force her to compromise her values and relinquish her original goals. the film's portrayal of her ultimately hollow victory perfectly demonstrates the ways in which all too many of us reach the top of the corporate ladder only to realize that the most important things were the ones that we gave up along the way. For a comedy that will keep you working for the weekend, strut your stuff with Andy and Miranda in The Devil Wears Prada.

The film brings the world of high-fashion to colorful life thanks to the stellar work of its cast. Adrian Grenier infuses Andy's boyfriend, Nate, with warmth and boy next door charm. Emily Blunt masterfully balances loyal assistant Emily's outward arrogance and inner desperation. Stanley Tucci infuses fashion director Nigel with biting wit and surprising heart. Anne Hathaway makes for an ideal everywoman as she channels Andy's inner journey from innocent new hire to hardened veteran employee. Meryl Streep turns in a tour de force performance as she perfectly blends cool charisma with cold calculation as Miranda.

Twenty years later The Devil Wears Prada remains every bit as biting and relevant as it was upon its release. The script pokes hilarious fun at the fashion industry while still being relatable for anyone convinced that they're working the job from Hell. The performances blend high-fashion hijinx with biting social commentary to expert effect. For a devilishly good time open the pages of Runway with Andy and Miranda in The Devil Wears Prada.