Jean Shepherd

It Runs In The Family (1994) Review

Weak

This lackluster sequel to A Christmas Story features none of the same cast (Kieran Culkin plays Ralphie) and little of the same charm. This one focuses on summer hijinks a few months later -- dad (now Charles Grodin) is still angry, there's about 30 hillbillies living next door, the guys go fishing, and some kind of charlatan is working in the local movie hall. Not funny, really, and Grodin is downright scary.

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Lenny Bruce Without Tears Review

By Christopher Null

Good

This very rough documentary, produced way back in 1972, is only finally available on DVD, and Lenny Bruce fans will find plenty to like. Filled with archival video and audio of the infamous comedian, Lenny Bruce Without Tears captures Bruce at nearly every stage in his career -- from his tepid early years to raunchy mid-career stuff to the seldom seen drugged-out zombie he'd become in the years leading up to his death by overdose. All the usual highlights of the Lenny Bruce story -- namely covering his trouble with the law -- are covered with due expedience.

Continue reading: Lenny Bruce Without Tears Review

It Runs In The Family (1994) Review

By Christopher Null

Weak

This lackluster sequel to A Christmas Story features none of the same cast (Kieran Culkin plays Ralphie) and little of the same charm. This one focuses on summer hijinks a few months later -- dad (now Charles Grodin) is still angry, there's about 30 hillbillies living next door, the guys go fishing, and some kind of charlatan is working in the local movie hall. Not funny, really, and Grodin is downright scary.

Continue reading: It Runs In The Family (1994) Review