Friday Flotsam: The Epiphany and Other Thoughts

1. Happy Feast of the Epiphany! From my reflections this morning: why those three gifts of the magi? The foremost is recognition of Christ’s three roles as King, Priest, and Sacrifice, as elaborated on in the famous song. But there’s something else as well which becomes clear when we consider that these are gifts offered … Continue reading Friday Flotsam: The Epiphany and Other Thoughts

Friday Flotsam: New Year Reflections and Goals, New Medievalism, and Death Note

1. Another year older, not an hour richer, as the saying goes. Okay, that’s a bit much. Let’s see, in 2022 I put out three new publications, including a full-length novel that been receiving quite a bit of positive feedback. Also set up a website for my publishing label, got a new job, and had … Continue reading Friday Flotsam: New Year Reflections and Goals, New Medievalism, and Death Note

Second Mario Trailer – Yep, Looks Bad

I was pleasantly surprised by the first trailer for the new, animated Super Mario Brothers movie: the aesthetics looked just right, Bowser was portrayed as a genuine threat rather than a joke, and so on. Now the second one's landed and...egh. Good feeling's gone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMYg69DfFLs As I said last time, the crucial factor is Peach, … Continue reading Second Mario Trailer – Yep, Looks Bad

Friday Flotsam: Retreat Reflections and Bad Movies

1. As I say, last weekend was a silent, Ignatian retreat for me; an intense few days of prayer and meditation, with no conversation, no media, nothing to distract me. Long days of talk, prayer, meditation, talk, prayer, sacrament. It was a wonderful experience that I feel brought some much needed clarity and a greater … Continue reading Friday Flotsam: Retreat Reflections and Bad Movies

Reviews: Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

On the surface, 1947’s Miracle on 34th Street is somewhat unlikely as an all-time classic. The story sounds like something you’d find in a cheesy, made-for-TV special, perhaps something from the Hallmark channel: a kindly old man working as a mall Santa Claus claims to be the real Santa Claus, spreads the Christmas spirit everywhere … Continue reading Reviews: Miracle on 34th Street (1947)