Peter Bart On Movie Sequels, Prequels & Trump Trials

[ With at least 10 sequels awaiting our imminent attention, here’s the challenge for filmgoers: Viewing each sequel means mastering a new code. Dune: Part Two becomes more accessible once you’ve learned why the Chakobsa-speaking characters are frustrated by their stalled kirzibs. For that matter, the fifth Ghostbusters makes more sense if you understand why … Read more

Smart New Movies Face Critics’ Disdain & Audience Torpor

[ “Uninspired.” “Never catches fire.” “Non-memorable.” I was sifting through reviews last weekend as the first step in my mission to re-discover the habit of moviegoing. With Barbenheimer finally behind us (well, almost), I decided to see three new movies on successive days – yes, buying tickets and going to theaters. But first come the … Read more

‘Love Story’ Was A Surprise Even To Its Reluctant Star Ryan O’Neal: Peter Bart – Deadline

[ “Why is this like a dark secret? It’s just a movie.” Ryan O’Neal, who died this week at 82, was a smart, good-natured man who was bemused by the contradictions of Hollywood. As he nervously awaited the release of Love Story five decades ago, he respected its shroud of silence but also was perplexed … Read more