In John Patrick Shanley’s 2004 play, “Doubt,” Sister Aloysius (played in the film version by Meryl Streep) is convinced that Father Flynn has engaged in improper sexual contact with a young black boy. She holds onto that belief, despite less than concrete evidence, throughout the play, only admitting, when her efforts to have Flynn disciplined […]

Before memories of the summer just past fade, here are capsule reviews of a dozen films we saw and, to a greater or lesser extent, appreciated. “Love and Mercy” – Directed by Bill Pohlad (screenplay by Michael Alan Lerner from his book), this film tells the redemptive story of Brian Wilson, the legendary leader of […]

Several theories have been suggested for the timing of John Boehner’s sudden announcement that he has decided to relinquish his position as the third most important official in the government. (At least, as Speaker of the House, he would so rank by being second-in-line, behind the Vice-President, in the succession hierarchy.) One theory is that […]

Donald Trump held a town hall style campaign event last week, and one of his supporters, in the process of asking a question, said that Barack Obama is a Muslim. Trump let the statement pass without commenting. He could have offered a correction or clarification of the voter’s remark, something like, “the President says he […]