Frank Capra

To "Americans for Prosperity" Capitalism Is a Love Story

Joseph A. Palermo | Posted 10.10.2009 | Politics


Joseph A. Palermo

The only distinguishing feature of the Americans for Prosperity Foundation's "National Defending the American Dream Summit" was its astonishing homogeneity both in thought and in demography.

Michael Moore's Grapes of Wrath

Dan Siegel | Posted 10.06.2009 | Entertainment


Dan Siegel

With the glimmering hope of the Obama campaign behind us, Moore's film is a wake-up call to renew and expand America's democratic promise.

What's Wrong With Empathy?

Joan E. Dowlin | Posted 08.15.2009 | Politics


Joan E. Dowlin

I, for one, am glad for the end of former President George W. Bush's "cowboy diplomacy," fear mongering, and pre-emptive strikes talk.

For Independence Day, Ten Movies That Scream America

John Farr | Posted 07.31.2009 | Entertainment


John Farr

As we head into Independence Day weekend, for those who'd like to move beyond the evergreen "Yankee Doodle Dandy", I want to suggest some classic titles that evoke our country's unique character.

Old Man Cheney

Jeffrey Feldman | Posted 05.22.2009 | Media


Jeffrey Feldman

Sean Hannity's interview with Dick Cheney serves as a kind of Tom Stoppard rendition of "It's a Wonderful Life" that might take place after the lights came up and the audience left the theater.

Mr. Smith? Roddy, You're a Real Paine

Donald Liebenson | Posted 02.28.2009 | Chicago


Donald Liebenson

Blago seems to be auditioning for a remake of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, casting himself as James Stewart's naïve and embattled senator. I recommend a different role that's tailor-made for him.

Movie Review: New in Town

Marshall Fine | Posted 02.28.2009 | Entertainment


Marshall Fine

If Frank Capra were to make a movie today, it would probably look a lot like New in Town. Of course, Frank Capra is dead. Then again, so is this movie.

"It's A Wonderful Life" Is Actually Terrifying: NYT

New York Times | Posted 01.20.2009 | Entertainment


"It's a Wonderful Life" is a terrifying, asphyxiating story about growing up and relinquishing your dreams, of seeing your father driven to the grave...

How the Wal-Mart Stampede Made a Long Holiday Season Longer

Jason Notte | Posted 01.02.2009 | Business


Jason Notte

I'm talking to you, dentist office filing clerk. While your boss is busy snaking a vacuum tube under someone's tongue, turn the radio from the all-Christmas station.

It's a Wonderful Life Explains the Financial Crisis

Charles H. Green | Posted 01.01.2009 | Business


Charles H. Green

Is it really that simple? How could Hollywood possibly get something so much more right than the risk-meisters of Wall Street?

It's a Wonderful Election

Steven Weber | Posted 11.14.2008 | Politics


Steven Weber

As simply as the lines are drawn between good and bad in Capra's classic, so are they drawn in this election. It has become clear which of the movie's characters comes closest to being identified with McCain.