International Holocaust Remembrance Day: Movies

The United Nations designated January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day to mark the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. When the resolution was passed in 2005, it also rejected any form of Holocaust denial. There has been different themes during every year. In 2022, the day’s theme is Memory, Dignity, and Justice. Going into April 2020, I knew that I lost an aunt, uncle, and a number of cousins during the Holocaust. What I did not know…

"International Holocaust Remembrance Day: Movies"

Comedian Jerry Lewis dead at 91

Comedian Jerry Lewis has died at the age of 91. Lewis, one-half of the popular Martin and Lewis duo with Dean Martin, hosted the annual MDA telethon over Labor Day weekend from 1966 through 2010. A statement by the Lewis family was tweeted by Las Vegas Review reporter John Katsilometes‏: “Legendary entertainer Jerry Lewis passed away peacefully today of natural causes at 91 at his home w/ family by his side.” Born Joseph Levitch on…

"Comedian Jerry Lewis dead at 91"

The Solzy Awards for Film in 2017 So Far

We’ve reached the halfway point of 2017 so that means it’s time to issue the Solzy Awards for Film in 2017 So Far. The two films that really stand out to me at this point in the year are The Big Sick and Baby Driver.  I started writing this article prior to seeing The Beguiled when it opened in Chicago on Friday.  I debated a lot to myself about whether or not I should include…

"The Solzy Awards for Film in 2017 So Far"

It’s Good To Be The King: Happy Birthday, Mel Brooks!

Mel Brooks is one of the first people I think of when it comes to comedy.  Today, he celebrates his 91st birthday. Together with Carl Reiner, they created The 2000 Year Old Man.  While doing the routine for their friends, comedian George Burns told them to record an album or he would have stolen it from them.  Steve Allen was also one of those who approached them and if not for him, the album likely…

"It’s Good To Be The King: Happy Birthday, Mel Brooks!"

The Last Laugh: What’s So Funny About the Holocaust?

What’s so funny about the Holocaust? Nothing is really funny about it but director Ferne Pearlstein explores whether or not the Holocaust should be off-limits for comedy. If it’s off-limits what becomes of other controversial topics? What is considered to be too taboo for comedy? How soon is too soon to be talking about 9/11? In her interviews with survivors, we learn that those in the concentration camps turned to humor as a survival technique…

"The Last Laugh: What’s So Funny About the Holocaust?"