“Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” Movie Review

The story of Pinocchio has been told various times through various mediums, studios, and countries. So why would you want to watch a film telling a story that’s been done time and time again, you may wonder. The sole reason is that Guillermo del Toro’s brilliant mind is behind it. del Toro and Mark Gustafson…

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“Marcel the Shell with Shoes On” Movie Review

Every now and then, we have the privilege of watching a movie that leaves an impact on us and makes us want to be a better person and more grateful for the luxury of living this miracle of life. Marcel, the title character in“Marcel the Shell with Shoes On,” is one of the most adorable…

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“Thor: Love and Thunder” Movie Review

The time has come to dive into another entry of the MCU: Phase Four. The latest is a much-awaited and anticipated one, “Thor: Love and Thunder” (2022), directed by Taika Waititi and starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tessa Thompson, Waititi, Christian Bale, and Russell Crowe. This movie reunites us with one of the original Avengers,…

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“Minions: The Rise of Gru” Movie Review

If you would have told me a few months back that the latest Minions movie, “Minions: The Rise of Gru,” would be a fun delightful surprise of the year, I wouldn’t have believed you. While I enjoyed the first two films, the third one wasn’t the greatest and the 2015 “Minions” was bad. So my…

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80. “Top Gun,” “Top Gun:Maverick” Film Reviews

In this episode, Catherine and Rosa introduce an exciting new segment to the podcast review episodes. One of our focuses has been reviewing films through our Latina lens. And while we love reviewing the latest releases we want to bring retro reviews of the films that we grew up watching that don’t come up in…

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“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” Movie Review

It’s a little odd that “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” releases on Mother’s Day weekend since its antagonist’s motherhood is villainized. The latest MCU entry is one of the most anticipated films of 2022 and the excitement was elevated after learning that Sam Raimi was in the directors’ chair. Starring Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict…

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63. Sundance Film Festival 2022: “Call Jane,” “Marte Um,” “Emergency,” “Brian and Charles”

Sundance Film Festival 2022 coverage continues for Rosa and Cat. In this episode, they review four films from the festival: “Call Jane” Director: Phyllis Nagy Chicago, 1968. As a city and the nation are poised on the brink of violent political upheaval, suburban housewife Joy leads an ordinary life with her husband and daughter. When…

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62. Sundance Film Festival 2022: “Long Line of Ladies,” “Bestia,” “Watcher,” “The Princess”

Sundance Film Festival 2022 coverage continues for Rosa and Cat. In this episode, they review two short films and two feature films:  “Long Line of Ladies” Directors: Rayka Zehtabchi & Shaandiin Tome A girl and her community prepare for her Ihuk, the once dormant coming-of-age ceremony of the Karuk tribe of northern California. “Bestia” Director:…

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61. Sundance Film Festival 2022: “Mija,” “Riotsville, USA,” “Nothing Compares,” “Fire of Love”

Sundance Film Festival 2022 coverage continues for Rosa and Cat. In this episode, they review four films: “Mija” Director: Isabel Castro Doris Muñoz desperately longed for better representation in the indie music she listened to as a teenager. At 23, she took matters into her own hands and began a career in music talent management,…

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60. Sundance Film Festival 2022: “La Guerra Civil,” “Tantura”

Latinx Lens is attending the virtual Sundance Film Festival 2022! The festival runs January 20 to January 30.  In this episode, Rosa and Cat dive into two documentaries premiering at the festival: “La Guerra Civil” Director: Eva Longoria Bastón In 1996, Oscar De La Hoya, the charismatic golden boy from East LA, challenged Mexican-born boxing…

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59. Clara Sola, Blanco en Blanco, Prayers for the Stolen, Deserto Particular

In this episode, Rosa and Cat are reviewing four Latin American films that were submitted by their respective country for consideration in the Academy Awards Best International Feature Film category. “Clara Sola” (Costa Rica) Director: Nathalie Álvarez Mesén In a remote village in Costa Rica, Clara, a 36-year-old woman, takes off on a journey to…

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“Hotel Transylvania: Transformania” Movie Review

The “Hotel Transylvania” franchise is regularly viewed in my household as my kids habitually watch the films during the spooky season. They’ve become attached to some of the beloved characters. One can easily look at these films and conclude their audience is for young people based on the type of jokes and overall tones in…

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58. Spider-Man: No Way Home, The Matrix Resurrections, Don’t Look Up

In this Latinx Lens reviews episode, Rosa and Cat review: “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (2021) Director: Jon Watts Our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man’s is back! With Peter Parker’s identity now revealed, the web slinger can no longer separate his normal life from his super hero identity. Peter seeks help from Doctor Strange and the consequences of…

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57. Anya Taylor-Joy

In this episode, Rosa and Cat dive into Anya Taylor-Joy’s select filmography including: “The VVitch” (2015) Director: Robert Eggers In 1630 New England, panic and despair envelops a farmer, his wife and their children when youngest son Samuel suddenly vanishes. The family blames Thomasin, the oldest daughter who was watching the boy at the time…

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Episode 56. 2021 Year in Review

In our last episode of 2021, Rosa and Cat look back at 2021! They choose a few highlights from the podcast and chat about the growth they’ve both had in 2021! We’ll be back in 2022!! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play and more!

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Episode 55. Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts

Latinx Lens reviews and discusses the Harry Potter 20th Anniversary special: Return to Hogwarts. Cat and Rosa talk about their connection with the Harry Potter franchise, the reunion special format and the things they learned from the cast, 20 years later. Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Stitcher

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Episode 54. “West Side Story,” “Being the Ricardos” and “Nightmare Alley”

Latinx Lens reviews three recent films including: “West Side Story” (2021) Dir. Steven Spielberg Love at first sight strikes when young Tony spots Maria at a high school dance in 1957 New York City. Their burgeoning romance helps to fuel the fire between the warring Jets and Sharks, the two rival gangs vying for control…

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Episode 53. Interview with Gigi Saul Guerrero

Latinx Lens interviews Mexican-Canadian filmmaker Gigi Saul Guerrero. Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play

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Episode 52. Interview with Pablo Larraín

Latinx Lens interviews Pablo Larraín about his latest film, “Spencer.” Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play and wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Episode 51. Pablo Larraín

In this episode, Rosa and Cat dive into Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larraín’s select filmography including: “Tony Manero” (2008) 50-something Raul Peralta (Alfredo Castro) goes to the same bar outside his native Santiago, Chile, and, with friends, dances to the hits from his favorite film, “Saturday Night Fever.” When he gets wind of a TV contest…

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Episode 50. “The Harder They Fall,” “Red Notice” and “Finch”

Latinx Lens reviews three films that include: “The Harder They Fall” (2021) “Red Notice” (2021) “Finch” (2021) Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play and more!

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Episode 49. “The Last Duel,” “Bingo Hell” and “Eternals”

Latinx Lens reviews three films including: “The Last Duel” (2021) “Bingo Hell” (2021) “Eternals” (2021) Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play and more!

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“West Side Story” Movie Review

Right off the bat, I have to admit that I’m not a fan of the original film “West Side Story” (1961) for obvious reasons, but I do admire the choreography. I understand it’s a product of its time, but it doesn’t mean I’m going to ignore its problematic depictions of Latinos. Therefore, I didn’t have…

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“Wolf” Movie Review

When initially reading about George MacKay, one the most talented up-and-coming actors, starring in the film, “Wolf,” I couldn’t help but get excited for this film. The trailer, where Jacob (MacKay) believes to be a wolf, looked promising, particularly seeing MacKay physically invested in the character.  “Wolf” (2021) follows Jacob who’s admitted into a clinic…

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Episode 48. Interview with Jorge Gutiérrez

Latinx Lens interviews the creator of the Netflix animated series “Maya and the Three” Jorge Gutiérrez. Jorge discusses the inspiration for Maya, representation and a bit of his own journey in Hollywood. “Maya and the Three” is streaming on Netflix! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play and more!

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Episode 47. “Maya and the Three”

In this episode Rosa and Cat dive into the Netflix animated series “Maya and the Three.” From creator Jorge R. Gutiérrez (“El Tigre”, “The Book of Life”) “Maya and the Three” is a Netflix Animated Event told in nine epic chapters. Starring Zoe Saldaña, Gabriel Iglesias, Allen Maldonado, Stephanie Beatriz, Diego Luna, Gael García Bernal,…

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Episode 46. Interview with Lissette Feliciano

In this episode, Rosa and Cat introduce Latinx Lens Interviews – a new segment to the podcast! Cat chatted with director/writer/producer Lissette Feliciano about her debut feature film, “Women is Losers,” representation and much more. “Women is Losers” is available to stream on HBO Max. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play and more!

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Episode 45. “Mass,” “Dune” and “Women is Losers”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat dive into three recent films: “Mass” (2021) Directed by Fran Kranz Two couples meet for a painful and raw conversation in the aftermath of a violent tragedy. “Dune” (2021) Directed by Denis Villeneuve Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding,…

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Episode 44: Oscar Isaac

In this episode Rosa and Cat dive into Óscar Isaac Hernández Estrada. You might know him simply as Oscar Isaac. Rosa and Cat discuss three of his films: “Balibo” (2009) Directed by Robert Connelly Roger East (Anthony LaPaglia) and Jose Ramos-Horta (Isaac) travel to East Timor to investigate the Balibo Five murders. “Inside Llewyn Davis”…

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Rosa’s 20 favorite films featured on Latinx Lens

It’s Latino Heritage Month and it’s our time to shine! Here at Latinx Lens, we celebrate Latinos year-round, but we are joining everyone else in highlighting Latinos and providing them their well-deserved recognition. Since we celebrate our contribution and representation in film this month, I’ve decided to focus on Latino-centric and -created movies. The following…

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TIFF Reviews (Part 3)

Here is the last of my coverage of TIFF. You can read the first two parts of my reviews here: (Part 1) (Part 2) “Charlotte,” directed by Eric Warin & Tahir Rana, is an animated drama that brings to life the remarkable true story of Charlotte Salomon, an enigmatic young German Jewish painter who created…

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Episode 43. “Cry Macho,” “Venom: Let There Be Carnage,” “No Time To Die,” “The Empty Space,” and “Blood Positive”

Latinx Lens reviews: CRY MACHO (2021) Dir. Clint Eastwood A onetime rodeo star and washed-up horse breeder, in 1978, takes a job from an ex-boss to bring the man’s young son home and away from his alcoholic mum. Crossing rural Mexico on their back way to Texas, the unlikely pair faces an unexpectedly challenging journey,…

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TIFF 2021 Reviews (Part 2)

Here’s my continued coverage of TIFF. You can read the first part of my reviews here: TIFF 2021 Reviews (Part 1) “All My Puny Sorrows,” directed by Michael McGowan, is based on the Miriam Toew’s beloved novel of the same name. The poignant story of two sisters: one, a concert pianist obsessed with ending her life;…

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TIFF 2021 Reviews (Part 1)

The Toronto International Film Festival has come to an end and it’s time to share my thoughts on the films I’ve had the opportunity to view. This was my second year covering TIFF and I’m incredibly thrilled I was able to do it. In addition, I was accepted via the Media Inclusion Program. Through the…

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Episode 42. TIFF 2021 Recap and “Titane”

In this episode, Rosa talks about her virtual TIFF 2021 experience and lists her Top 10 Films of the festival.  Rosa and Cat review “Titane.” 

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Episode 41. “Kate,” “Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed,” and “Cinderella”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat chat about Hispanic/Latinx Heritage month and what the term Latinx means to them. And they review three films:  Kate (2021) on Netflix  Slipped a fatal poison on her final job, a ruthless Tokyo assassin has less than 24 hours to find out who ordered the hit and exact revenge.…

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Episode 40: Emmanuel Lubezki

In this episode, Rosa and Cat discuss the Mexican cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki and three of his films: THE BIRDCAGE (1996) A gay cabaret owner and his drag queen companion agree to put up a false straight front so that their son can introduce them to his fiancée’s right-wing moralistic parents. THE TREE OF LIFE (2011)…

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“Candyman” Movie Review

Having seen only the trailer to this film, I was intrigued to see what Nia DaCosta would deliver with her latest film “Candyman.” This new movie (co-written and co-produced by Jordan Peele) is the latest addition to the franchise and takes place 30 years after the original 1992 horror film about a killer named Candyman…

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Episode 39: “The Night House,” “The Protege,” “Reminiscence,” “Paw Patrol: The Movie” and “Shang-Chi”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat review five films: The Night House (2020) in theaters Reeling from the unexpected death of her husband, Beth is left alone in the lakeside home he built for her. She tries as best she can to keep it together – but then nightmares come. The Protege (2021) in theaters…

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Episode 38: Val, Pig, Jungle Cruise and The Green Knight

In this episode, Rosa and Cat review four recent releases: VAL (2021) streaming on Amazon Prime PIG (2021) in theaters and on demand JUNGLE CRUISE (2021) in theaters and streaming on Disney+ THE GREEN KNIGHT (2021) in theaters Warning: There are spoilers!

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Episode 37: “Annette,” “Free Guy,” “The Suicide Squad” And “Vivo”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat review these films: ANNETTE (2021) is currently playing in theaters and streams on Amazon Prime on August 20 FREE GUY (2021) in theaters August 13 THE SUICIDE SQUAD (2021) in theaters and streaming on HBO Max VIVO (2021) streaming on Netflix Warning: There are spoilers!

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Episode 36: Janicza Bravo

After reviewing ZOLA (2021) in Episode 32, Rosa and Cat needed to see more of writer/director Janicza Bravo work. In this episode, they dive into her filmography: LEMON (2017), available on streaming platforms Four short films that can be watched on the Criterion Collection: GREGORY GO BOOM (2013) PAULINE ALONE (2014) WOMAN IN DEEP (2016)…

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Episode 35: “Old,” “Snake Eyes,” “Jolt,” “The Sound of the Wind,” “The Green Knight”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat review four films and Cat reviews five recent releases.  OLD (2021) SNAKE EYES (2021) JOLT (2021) THE SOUND OF THE WIND (2020) THE GREEN KNIGHT (2021)

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“I Carry You With Me” Movie Review

I never took the time to consider my mother’s enormous sacrifice leaving her country, her family, and her life until I saw “I Carry You With Me,” a film that gave me an additional layer of perception.  “I Carry You With Me” (2020), follows Ivan’s (Armando Espitia) journey from growing up in Mexico to immigrating…

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Episode 34: “Gunpowder Milkshake,” “Summertime,” “Fear Street Trilogy” and “The Forever Purge”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat review these films and series: GUNPOWDER MILKSHAKE (2021) streaming on Netflix To protect an 8-year-old girl, a dangerous assassin reunites with her mother and her lethal associates, The Librarians, to take down The Firm, the ruthless crime syndicate that her mother worked for. These three generations of women must…

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Episode 33: Anthony Quinn

In this episode, Rosa and Cat discuss three films featuring Mexican-American actor and two-time Academy Award winner, Anthony Quinn: LAWRENCE OF ARABIA (1962) Lawrence, a lieutenant in the British Army, is asked by Colonel Brighton to moderately assess Faisal, their ally. Lawrence is impressed with Faisal and seeks his help to plan an attack on…

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Episode 32: “Zola,” “The Tomorrow War,” “No Sudden Move” and “Black Widow”

We’re back! Did you miss us? 🙂 In this episode, Rosa and Cat review these films: ZOLA (2021) in theatersBased on the viral Twitter thread, Zola, a Detroit waitress, strikes up a new friendship with a customer, Stefani, who seduces her to join a weekend of dancing and partying in Florida. What at first seems…

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Episode 31: “Luca,” “Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard” and “Rita Moreno: A Girl Who Just Decided to Go For It”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat review three films:  LUCA (2021) now streaming on Disney+ Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, the original animated feature is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. HITMAN’S WIFE’S BODYGUARD (2021) now in…

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Episode 30: LALIFF 2021 Recap, “The Conjuring 3,” “Blue Miracle,” and “Plan B”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat review three films: THE CONJURING: THE DEVIL MADE ME DO IT (2021) streaming on HBO Max and in theaters BLUE MIRACLE (2021) streaming on Netflix PLAN B (2021) streaming on Hulu Before they dive into the reviews, Rosa talks about her experience attending the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival…

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Episode 29: Patricia Cardoso

In this episode of Latinx Lens, Rosa and Cat discuss three films from Colombian writer/director/producer Patricia Cardoso: Real Women Have Curves (2002), Meddling Mom (2013) and Lies in Plain Sight (2010). Latinx Lens Recommend film is Güeros (2014) by Mexican director Alonso Ruizpalacios.

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Episode 28: “Blast Beat,” “Cruella,” “Army of the Dead” and “A Quiet Place Part II”

In this episode of Latinx Lens, Rosa and Cat reviews the latest films: Blast Beat (on VOD), Cruella (in theaters & Disney+), Army of the Dead (on Netflix) and A Quiet Place Part II (in theaters now and Paramount+ on July 12) WARNING: There are spoilers!

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Episode 27: “In the Heights”

In this special episode of Latinx Lens, Rosa and Cat are joined by social media manager Sarah to discuss the upcoming film, In The Heights. The team brings their unique perspectives to share what they loved (and didn’t love) about the musical. WARNING: There are spoilers!

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Episode 26: Rosie Perez

In this episode, Rosa and Cat dive into three films from Oscar nominee and actress Rosie Perez: Fearless (1993), The 24 Hour Woman (1999) and Birds Of Prey (2020). Latinx Lens Recommend film is Retablo (2017), a Peruvian drama.

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“Selena the Series” TV Review Coverage

While we haven’t recorded dedicated episodes about the show, hosts Catherine and Rosa have both share their thoughts on Selena the Series for other publications. Luz Collective: Click on the image to read the review. Pod Clubhouse Love It or Leave It?: Click here to listen to Part 1. Click here to listen to Part…

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Episode 25: “For Rosa,” “Mortal Kombat,” “Without Remorse,” and “The Mitchells vs. the machines”

In this episode, Rosa and Cat review some new releases from HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video and Netflix.  They dive into HBO Max’s short film, “For Rosa” and the “Mortal Kombat” reboot. They chat about the newest Tom Clancy film “Without Remorse” featuring Michael B. Jordan and get emotional with Netflix’s animated family film, “The…

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Episode 24: Alejandro González Iñárritu

In this episode, Rosa and Cat dive three films from Academy Award-winning director, writer and producer Alejandro González Iñárritu. “Amores Perros” (2000), “Babel” (2006) and “The Revenant” (2015) and Latinx Lens Recommend film, “Mosquita y Mari” (2012) form director/writer, Aurora Guerrero. 

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Episode 22: “Yes Day,” “Raya and the Last Dragon,” “Godzilla vs. Kong,” and “Howard Original”

In this episode, Cat and Rosa review Yes Day, Raya and the Last Dragon, Godzilla vs. Kong and Howard Original from Natalie Rodriguez. 

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“Godzilla vs. Kong” Movie Review

Originally set to release last year, Godzilla vs. Kong became one of the most anticipated releases of 2021. This film was made for the big screen. Like all blockbusters, it has epic fights, extraordinary visuals, and incredible sound.  I was lucky to have seen it in theaters, which is the preferred way to watch it.…

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Episode 21: Gael García Bernal

In this episode, Rosa and Cat dive into Gael García Bernal’s select filmography. Gael is a Mexican actor and producer. We discuss three of his films including:  THE MOTORCYCLE DIARIES (2004) THE SCIENCE OF SLEEP (2006) EVEN THE RAIN (2010) And this week’s Latinx Lens Recommends film is TORTILLA SOUP (2001). 

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Episode 20: Oscar Noms, SXSW 2021 and Zack Snyder’s “Justice League”

In this Latinx Lens review episode, Rosa and Cat share their thoughts on the 2021 Oscar nominations, Cat discusses her 2021 SXSW Virtual Film experience and both dive into Zack Snyder’s “Justice League.”

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Episode 19: Alfonso Cuarón

In this episode of Latinx Lens Catherine and Rosa look at three films directed by Alfonso Cuarón. “Great Expectations” (1998) This second Hollywood directed film is an adaptation of Charles Dicken’s classic story. Although it’s his least critically acclaimed film, there seems to be some early signs of his unique filmmaking style.  “Y Tu Mamá…

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Episode 18: Latinx representation in TV

In this episode, Rosa and Cat discuss three Netflix television shows that represent a variety of Latinx representation that is not only universal, but also hits  close to home.  “Rompan todo: La historia del rock en América Latina” (2020) Soda Stereo, Café Tacvba, Aterciopelados and other rock bands are featured in this chronicle of 50…

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Episode 17: Tessa Thompson

In this episode Cat and Rosa highlight the one and only Tessa Thompson. They discuss her work on three films and ending with our newly revamped Latinx Lens Recommends. Sorry to Bother You (2018) Set in an alternate present day version of Oakland, where telemarketer Cassius Green discovers a magical key to professional success, propelling him…

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“Wolfwalkers” Movie Review

“Wolfwalkers” has been accumulating momentum since screening in some festivals, many labeling it the best animated movie of 2020 while others claim it’s one of the best movies of the year.  In Ireland, an English hunter, Bill (Sean Bean), is ordered to get rid of the last group of wolves. His daughter, Robyn (Honor Kneafsey),…

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“Promising Young Woman” Movie Review

“Promising Young Woman” openly challenges society’s misogynistic and patriarchal mindset as it follows Cassandra (Carey Mulligan), a woman seeking revenge against those involved in her friend’s sexual assault. I’ve been reading and hearing an overwhelmingly positive reception about this film since its premiere at Sundance earlier this year. Does it live up to the hype?…

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“Hillbilly Elegy” Movie Review

Directed by Ron Howard, “Hillbilly Elegy” stars Amy Adams and Glenn Close as the mother and grandmother of a Yale law student who returns to his rural hometown to attend to a family crisis. Adapted from the book of the same name by J.D. Vance, the film begins with a teenage J.D., played as an…

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“Ammonite” Movie Review

As early as its trailer, “Ammonite” unavoidably gave off vibes similar to 2019’s “Portrait of a Lady on Fire.” Both are period dramas with intense, secretive romances between women. Common threads in their stories, locations and time periods make it difficult for a viewer familiar with “Portrait” not to compare the two. In fact, there…

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Episode 6: Robert Rodriguez

Rosa and Cat talk about the trailblazing U.S. Latinx director Robert Rodriguez. He’s sought to make films his way, from his lens, that have been both universal and groundbreaking for Latinx representation on-screen and behind-the-scenes. Films discussed in the podcast: “Desperado” (1995) “The Faculty” (1998) “Spy Kids” (2001) Latinx Recommends: “The Ring” (1952) 

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“Don’t Worry Darling” Movie Review

Oliva Wilde’s directorial debut, “Booksmart” (2019), is one of the strongest and most promising debuts in recent memory. This is why her sophomore directorial film, “Don’t Worry Darling” (2022), was one of my most anticipated films of the year. With the addition of THE Florence Pugh, this film immediately climbed on my must-watch list. To…

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