The Unicorn Challenge 072123 — Biblical

© Ayr/Gray Barksley refused to believe his unnatural proclivities were his fault. Having been sent away to Saint Percival Boarding School at age nine, he was predated upon in every fashion by everyone who was stronger than he was, and everyone was stronger. Nuns rapped his knuckles with the metal edges of rulers for not…

Movie Review — Retaliation (2017)

Orlando Bloom is to be commended for his believable performance as a 30-some year-old man who gets triggered and spirals into emotional chaos when the priest who sexually abused and exploited him as a child returns to the small town parish to act as priest at the new church. The choice of career for Malky,…

REVIEW: “Women Talking” (2022) — Keith & the Movies

(CLICK HERE to read my full review in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette) Forming the very marrow of Sarah Polley’s quietly lacerating new drama “Women Talking” are the bold and timely themes of female survival and solidarity. That alone is enough for an engrossing story. But part of what makes Polley’s film adaptation of Miriam Toews’ 2018 […]…

TSM 243 — Daddy Needs a Drink

Photo by Kyle Thompson Maybe it’s being locked in the closet. Maybe it’s the surprise knuckles to the middle of my back. Maybe it’s seeing my breath on the air as I curl under the thin blanket. Maybe it’s his forcing himself into me. The day of my liberation it is mid-January. Daddy is drunk,…

#FF — Almost Like Home

PHOTO PROMPT © Lisa Fox When we were given tours of the rooms that were available, the director proudly showed off the few who had tubs. “Just think of soaking in hot water and bubble bath when winter comes!” she gushed to my mother. The tub, nutritious meals, and the view were the biggest selling…