Weekend - February 04, 2021 by repubnews

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Weekend

WINTERFEST: Annual event goes mostly virtual due to pandemic, E5 OFF THE MENU: ‘Immune-boosting’ foods latest dining trend, E9 WINE PRESS: Pairing wines with 5 classic Super Bowl snacks, E10

| THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

Virtual film fest

Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival features 7 movies, E2 FOUR SUNDAYS IN FEBRUARY FEB. 7-28, 2021

PRESENTED BY THE NORTHAMPTON ARTS C OUNCIL

MORE THIS MONTH

FEB. 7

FEB. 14

Silver Chord Bowl The Northamptones Edition Streaming online • Visit hamparts.org for details

“Untitled” Theatre Piece FEB. 15-19

KidsBestFest FEB. 21

SCDT Dance Performance FEB. 28

Best of Four Sundays

WEEKEND

E2 | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

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ON THE COVER

Jewish Film Festival goes virtual 7 films to be screened online, including 1 about Northampton’s Rabbi Kevin Hale

By Cori Urban

Special to The Republican

his year’s Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival — to be presented virtually — will feature seven film screenings, including one about Northampton’s Rabbi Kevin Hale, who has dedicated his life to the 613th biblical commandment to write a Torah scroll.

Miriam B. Lewin is the director and producer of that short documentary, “Commandment 613,” and she is Hale’s cousin. “A few years ago, he started telling me about his work on a particular set of Torah scrolls, the ones that belong to the Memorial Scrolls Trust in London, and are loaned out to communities around the world,” she said. “These scrolls come from communities in Czechoslovakia and were saved there during World War II. When he described to me the deep feelings they bring out for the people who now care for the scrolls, I thought it sounded like a good subject for a documentary.” The Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival, presented by the Springfield Jewish Community Center, marks its 16th year with the virtual mini-festival that runs Feb. 6 through March 22. It will include seven online film screenings as the festival continues its tradition of showcasing some of the best independent Jewish cinema from throughout the world. Zoom discussions are planned for nearly all of the films, featuring directors, screenwriters and

At left, Rabbi Kevin J. Hale, of Northampton, is featured in the documentary “Commandment 613.” Above, David Kross and Freya Mavor star in “The Keeper” from Menemsha Films. Both films will be featured in the 2021 Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival, which is virtual this year. (MENEMSHA FILMS)

“Crescendo” will be among the offerings during the 2021 Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival. (MENEMSHA FILMS)

experts on an array of topics of cultural and historical significance. “We’ve re-imagined this year’s festival and are bringing the best of the PVJFF experience to audience members in their living rooms,” said Debbie L. Krivoy, chief operating officer at the Springfield Jewish Community Center and director of

the Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival. “Many of the films we are presenting virtually this year were slated to be part of our 2020 ‘in-person’ festival lineup [postponed due to COVID-19, just days before launching last year] and we’ve added some new titles too.” Two dramas anchor the film festival:

• Dror Zahavi’s “Crescendo” is about a world-famous conductor (played by Peter Simonischek of “Toni Erdmann”) who accepts the job to create an Israeli-Palestinian youth orchestra and steps into a firestorm of conflict as he tries to bring the two factions of young musicians together in harmony. “Crescen-

SEE FESTIVAL, PAGE E3

“Our lineup encourages meaningful crosscultural dialogue throughout the Pioneer Valley community.” DEBBIE L. KRIVOY, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AT THE SPRINGFIELD JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER AND DIRECTOR OF THE PIONEER VALLEY JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL

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2021 PIONEER VALLEY JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL PVJFF is going virtual this year. From Feb. 6 through March 22, enjoy award-winning films and conversations from home. Registration is required for all of the online screenings and virtual discussions at pvjff.org. After registering you will receive links that give you 48 hours to stream the films. Feb. 6-8: “Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles” Feb 13-15: “Picture of His Life” Feb 20-22: “It Must Schwing!: The Blue Note Story” Feb 27-March 1: “Crescendo” March 5-8: “Commandment 613” March 13-15: “The Keeper” March 20-22: “The Museum” For more information and instructions on how to watch, and to register for the festival programs, visit pvjff.org.

Festival

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021 | E3

DVD RELEASES

‘Let Him Go’ thoughtful thriller By KATIE FORAN-MCHALE

Tribune News Service

A couple’s fight to save their young grandson tops the new DVD releases for this week. “Let Him Go”: Tragedy strikes early on in writer-director Thomas Bezucha’s Western neo-noir, based on the 2013 novel of the same name by Larry Watson. Margaret and George Blackledge (Diane Lane and Kevin Costner), a happy couple on a Montana ranch, are devastated by the sudden, accidental death of their grown son, James (Ryan Bruce), father to their newborn grandson, Jimmy. His widow, Lorna (Kayli Carter), remarries a few years later, a ceremony that Margaret and George graciously and awkwardly attend in support of Jimmy. When Margaret, a breaker of wild horses and wholly loving and fearless protector, sees Lorna’s brutish new husband, Donnie Weboy (Will Brittain), hitting both Lorna and Jimmy, she’s shaken to her core. And after Lorna and Donnie skip town with her grandchild to be with Donnie’s family, Margaret doesn’t think twice about setting off after them on a road trip to the Dakotas. It’s not just wild horses she breaks. Lane gives a commanding performance as the deeply passionate Margaret, emphatically and quickly convincing her reluctant retired sheriff husband to join her on her treacherous quest, and later holding her own with the highly unpredictable, dangerous Weboy clan holding Lorna and Jimmy hostage through physical and emotional abuse. Lesley Manville dazzles as the deranged Weboy matriarch, Blanche, who belly laughs as she threatens the couple and carries around a bag of deadly weapons with nonchalance. Michael Giacchino’s calming pastoral score and director of photography Guy Godfree’s beautiful cinematography of the West both

Diane Lane and Kevin Costner star in “Let Him Go.” (KIMBERLEY FRENCH / FOCUS FEATURES)

add to the weight of the film, which finds power in its quiet. The characters move slowly, but the story moves quickly, with a clear subtext hanging in the air of grief, love and sacrifice. “Sometimes that’s all life is, Margaret, a list of what we’ve lost,” says George at a particularly low point. But in Lane’s Margaret, the film shows one doesn’t have to lose a sense of self in the process. Also new on DVD “Breach”: After fleeing a plague on Earth, a mechanic aboard a spaceship (Bruce Willis) must protect the ship from a cosmic threat.

“Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror”: Documentary explores Black filmmakers and films in the popular genre. “Host”: A group of friends unintentionally unleashes evil after performing an online seance. Stars Haley Bishop, Jemma Moore and Emma Louise Webb. “JL Family Ranch: The Wedding Gift”: After Henry (Dylan Walsh) and Rebecca (Teri Polo) announce their engagement, the bride-tobe’s daughter hosts a disruptive guest. Also stars Jon Voigt, Bo Derek and James Caan.

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with us for the kind of lively conversations that would typically follow our in-perCONTINUED FROM PAGE E2 son screenings,” Krivoy said. do” screenwriter Stephen “Attendees consistently share Glantz will lead a Q&A about how much they love this community experience — interactthe film. • The biopic “The Keeping with fellow film buffs and er” tells the true story of Bert having a back-and-forth with Trautmann, a German prisfilmmakers.” oner of war who, amid much That’s why she says the protest and prejudice, secures festival is more than a night at the position of goalkeepthe movies. er at Manchester City and “The festival showcases the becomes a soccer icon. His unity and diversity of people’s signing causes outrage among lives through the language of thousands of fans, many of film. Year after year, we are them Jewish, until Mancheson the lookout for powerful ter’s communal rabbi interfilms that deal with relatable venes on his behalf. topics such as identity, legacy This year’s festival showcas- and social justice,” Krivoy es an array of documentaries, said. “Our lineup encourages including: meaningful cross-cultural • “It Must Schwing!: The dialogue throughout the PioBlue Note Story” follows two neer Valley community.” young émigrés from Berlin The purpose of The Pioneer who founded the legendary Valley Jewish Film Festival is jazz label Blue Note Records, to entertain and engage the which produced such jazz community with world-class stars as Miles Davis and The- films and compelling converlonius Monk. sations that are inspired by • “Picture of His Life” is Jewish life worldwide. a documentary about Israeli The 2021 Pioneer Valley underwater wildlife phoJewish Film Festival is free tographer Amos Nachoum of charge, but organizers who dreamed of swimming encourage donations to support the ongoing work of the underwater with a polar bear Pioneer Valley Jewish Film and capturing it face-to-face Festival. on film. • In “Commandment Registration is required for 613,” a sofer (Jewish scribe), all of the online screenings Hale, brings new life to Torah and virtual discussions. For scrolls saved from Czechoslo- a complete list of films and vakia during the Holocaust. instructions on how to watch Producer/director Lewin, them and to register for the cinematographer/editor Ran- festival programs, visit pvjff. di Cecchine and Hale and will org. lead a virtual discussion. To arrange a screening “This year, directors, of “Commandment 613,” screenwriters and local contact Miriam Lewin at 917scholars will gather virtually 804-1870.

WEEKEND

E4 | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

WEEKEND

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MUSIC LIVEWIRE

Bacon Brothers to play virtual Hartford Stage fundraiser

artford Stage’s annual fundraising gala hopes to bring home the bacon this year. And what better way to do that than to bring the Bacon Brothers in to perform? The duo will headline this virtual event on April 10 at 8 p.m. The Bacon Brothers have released 10 albums over their 23-year career, featuring the celebrated actor Kevin and the Emmy-winning composer Michael. It will mark Kevin Bacon’s return to Hartford Stage, six years after he appeared in a 2015 sold-out run of “Rear Window.” Tickets for the whole package are $300 and include an exclusive pre-show virtual cocktail party and a “Celebrate Hartford” gift bag. For concert-only viewing, $35 tickets are available. The event will stream online for one week alongside an online auction. All proceeds from the gala will benefit Hartford Stage’s “Raise the Curtain” campaign to sustain the theater during the pandemic and provide the financial support to reopen once the public health situation improves. Tickets are on sale now at hartfordstage. org/gala.

WinterFest 2021 will happen,” said Tony Pallagrosi, Light of Day co-founder and Executive Director, in a published statement. “The greater Asbury Park musical community, as well as some very special guests, will come together for three days of virtual streaming to raise money and awareness utilizing the awesome power of music in our battle to defeat Parkinson’s, ALS and PSP in our lifetime.”

• For the third time, an appearance by KT Tunstall at the Iron Horse Music Hall in Northampton has been moved off the calendar. Originally scheduled for March 2020 and then moved to Feb. 10, 2021, the Scottish singer’s show has now moved to a date “to be determined.” Tickets for the previous shows will be honored. Ticket purchasers can request refunds by email at customer Michael Bacon and Kevin Bacon of the Bacon Brothers perform during Mother Nature Network service@nbotickets.com. Presents White House Correspondents’ Jam IV on April 27, 2018 at The Hamilton in WashingTunstall first came to promiton, D.C. The Bacon Brothers will headline the 2021 Hartford Stage fundraising gala on April 10. nence back in 2004 when she All proceeds from the gala will benefit Hartford Stage’s “Raise the Curtain” campaign to sustain performed her song “Black the theater during the pandemic and provide the financial support to reopen once the public Horse and the Cherry Tree” health situation improves. (RICK DIAMOND / GETTY IMAGES FOR MOTHER NATURE NETWORK) on the BBC show “Later... with Jools Holland.” ‘Big Pearl,’ ‘Island in the Sun’ has been on hiatus because of Feb. 12 through Feb. 14 on The song became a Top and ‘Love Hotel,’ plus others the pandemic. He has played the Light of Day Foundations 20 hit in the U.S. and earned you may have heard before. ... more than 100 shows at Mad- Facebook page. Tunstall a Grammy nomination for best female pop vocal It’s a beautiful record coming ison Square Garden during “Even in times of performance. to you soon,” Young wrote on the course of his career. COVID-19, Light of Day The “Piano Man” also has his website. hopes of playing a few ballIn a 1995 interview with parks this summer, including Mojo, Young described “Island in the Sun” as “a tropical a previously announced gig thing all about sailing, ancient at Fenway Park in Boston on civilizations, islands and Aug. 4. water.” Kama Sutra Weekender Liner notes • The “Light of Day” festiKit • Neil Young is planning to val has gone virtual. • Billy Joel appears oprelease an album he shelved timistic that the pandemic The music festival, held nearly 40 years ago. won’t block live shows by annually in Asbury Park, New “Island in the Sun” was reyear’s end. Jersey, raises money to defeat corded in May 1982 in Hawaii, The Rock and Roll Hall of Parkinson’s disease and relatLiberator High On Love but rejected by Young as his Fame honoree is resuming his ed illnesses ALS and PSP. Axis Couples This year, in the wake of first album for Geffen Remonthly residency at MadiWedge Lip Gloss cords. Instead, he released the son Square Garden on Nov. COVID-19, the performancsynthesizer heavy “Trans.” 5. He has scheduled monthly es will be livestreamed with The lost album — now headlining sets from Joan Jett AdamEveGreenfieldMA dates at the iconic New York renamed “Johnny’s Island,” and the Blackhearts, Willie City arena through April. Pleasure, Adventure, & Fun 18 Main St., Greenﬁeld, MA • 413-774-9800 — “includes a majority of Nile, John Eddie, and others. Joel began his monthly Everyone AEStoresGreenfield Welcome www.Greenﬁeld.AdamEveStores.com unreleased tracks, including The event takes place from residency in January 2014, but

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021 | E5

EASTHAMPTON

WinterFest returns with new look, same spirit Annual event goes mostly virtual due to pandemic

By Cori Urban

Special to The Republican

he 8th annual Easthampton WinterFest has a different look and feel this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Creating a mostly virtual WinterFest was new to the (organizing) committee and challenged our creativity,” said Beth A. Tiffany, a committee member.

(METRO CREATIVE ARTS)

Easthampton WinterFest 2021 features virtual and outdoor events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual activities include a paper snowflake making contest and a Nashawannuck Pond photo contest, which is open to professional and amateur photographers. Enter photos online at nashawannuckpond. org/winterfest.html. Easthampton WinterFest has been the main source of funds that support the health of Nashawannuck Pond, above. (THE REPBULICAN FILE PHOTO)

But members came up with a variety of events and activities happening now through Feb. 13, including an online photo contest of Nashawannuck Pond, a snowflake making contest, a pond trivia contest, a Mt. Tom Ice cream flavor contest and four informational movies about the pond. Outdoor events include a storefront/window display contest, scavenger hunt, the Emily Williston Library outdoor story walk and Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary’s two animal tracking talk and walks. There is also the Albert Keisling Snow Art Competition. Kiesling was an artist who lived in Easthampton and during the winter took his artistry to his yard and made large snow sculptures for the enjoyment of all. “The commitment of the WinterFest Committee to our beloved Nashawannuck

Pond shows the very best of Easthampton’s city spirit,” said Mayor Nicole LaChapelle. WinterFest has been the main source of funds that support the health of Nashawannuck Pond. “Nashawannuck Pond is a vital part of our downtown,” said Elizabeth G. Provo, chairman of Easthampton WinterFest, noting that the boardwalk is enjoyed by visitors in all seasons. Art performances take place at the pond, it has been the backdrop of many wedding ceremonies, a Christmas tree is placed on the pond during the holiday season, and the American Flag hangs there many months of the year. Nature lovers can fish year round. Kayakers and paddle boarders enjoy the pond. “The man-made pond used to be approximately 50 acres, however, it has shrunk to about

water flow over the dam and anything else that may affect the pond’s health. The city health department and public works have started a new project to address cyanobacteria testing and monitoring protocols. “Pond closures during the last two years due to cyanobacteria have impacted both local businesses and those who use the pond for recreBeth A. Tiffany ation,” Provo said. “Our fundraising through WinterFest and merchandise sales at events throughout the year provide our 30 acres due to years of sediment and run-off,” she said. only source of funding.” “We can never get that acreage This year’s free, famiback, but through constant ed- ly-friendly WinterFest follows ucation and vigilance we may local Board of Health guidebe able to prevent greater loss.” lines; all activities have been reviewed for social distancThe all-volunteer Nashawannuck Pond Steering Commit- ing and wearing a mask in tee has undertaken such projall districts of the city where ects as erosion control along required. the banks of the pond, ongoing “I think most people feel invasive species maintenance the effects (of the) pandemic, and removal, monitoring so to find a way to engage at

home and in the community is helpful and hopeful and fun,” Tiffany said. “Some of these activities are only at home; others require walking the streets for the scavenger hunt and looking at storefronts.” This year the theme of the WinterFest is “LOVE. Love the pond. Love our community. Love each other.” It was chosen, Tiffany said, “because it seems like in so many ways the last year has been very trying on people’s emotions.” “The pandemic may have changed the way WinterFest looks this year, but it hasn’t dampened our spirits,” Provo said. “We have found safe and creative ways for families to learn more about the pond, get outdoors and enjoy nature and win prizes by entering our many contests.” Learn more at nashawan nuckpond.org/winterfest. html.

DVD

on the role of the legendary electrical system inventor and his rivalry with Thomas Edison (Kyle MacLachlan). “Wild Mountain Thyme”: A farmer (Emily Blunt) pursues a neighbor (Jamie Dornan) entrenched in family drama over land ownership.

woman’s relationship is upended when they both fall for the same woman. Stars Rachel Alig, Ryan Caraway and Kate Beecroft. “I’ll See You Around”: A community college student (Lucas Monroe) suspects his brother may have stolen and sold his laptop for drugs. “100 Days to Live”: A woman must save her fiance

woman embarks on an unsettling homecoming to her estranged mother. Stars Julia Ormond, Emma Draper and John Bach. Out tomorrow. “The Right One”: A writer (Cleopatra Coleman) falls for a constantly changing, eccentric man (Nick Thune) who inspires her as a muse. Out tomorrow. Look for it on DVD/Blu-ray Tuesday.

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“Love, Weddings & Other Disasters”: Rom-com follows the love lives of the people who make weddings happen. Stars Maggie Grace, Jeremy Irons and Diane Keaton. “Tesla”: Ethan Hawke takes

Out on Digital HD “First Blush”: A man and

“I think most people feel the effects (of the) pandemic, so to find a way to engage at home and in the community is helpful and hopeful and fun.”

from a killer. Stars Colin Egglesfield, Gideon Emery and Heidi Johanningmeier. “The Go-Gos”: Documentary explores the legendary girl band. Out tomorrow. “The Mimic”: Comedy follows man (Thomas Sadoski) who’s convinced his new neighbor (Jake Robinson) is a sociopath. Out tomorrow. “Reunion”: A pregnant

WEEKEND

E6 | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

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MOVIES / TV

What to watch during Black History Month Professor of Africana Studies makes recommendations

By KATHLEEN CHRISTIANSEN

Orlando Sentinel

ith February’s arrival comes Black History Month, providing a time to reflect upon the accomplishments of Black Americans. One way to mark the occasion is to watch shows and movies that celebrate Black history.

Donald Harrell, an adjunct professor who teaches Africana Studies at the University of Central Florida, believes Black stories have grown in popularity. “There’s far more interest now in these types of movies and TV shows than there has been in the past, which is a testament to our society,” he said. “Even though we look at it and everybody is feeling kind of taken aback by recent goings-on, at the same time, there’s been a level of awareness that’s increased in leaps and bounds because of all of this.” The movie industry, he said, has played a big role in “making the world a better place to live.” “This is a nice medium to affect change in society,” he said. “You can create a movie or a TV show ... and it can be viewed by thousands and even millions of people. And there are many, many of these new and old producers and filmmakers who understand that power, and they’ve gone to great lengths to uncover hidden truths. And you can find it by just sitting down, getting yourself some popcorn, get your favorite beverage and cross your feet and grow accordingly.” Harrell noted that these works aren’t just about consuming for entertainment. For the most impactful experience, viewers must be open-minded.

“If your mind is open and you really want to get to an understanding of what Black life is and why Black life is what it is with a mind to try to help to create a better life for all of us, then these types of movies are definitely worth watching,” he said. In honor of Black History Month, Harrell shared his list of must-watch movies and shows. ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ FBI informant William O’Neal infiltrates the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party to gather intelligence on Chairman Fred Hampton. “It’s about Fred Hampton, who was this incredible potential leader ... almost like a Malcolm X-type figure because he was so young and so eloquent and so smart,” Harrell said. “He was working with the Black Panther Party, but he died in a gun battle with the authorities.” Catch it in theaters and on HBO Max starting Feb. 12. ‘The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross’ This six-part PBS series six episodes explores the history of African Americans. Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

From front to back: LaKeith Stanfield and Daniel Kaluuya in “Judas and the Black Messiah.” At left, Malcolm X (Kingsley Ben-Adir) arrives at a place of peace by the end of “One Night in Miami.”(GLEN WILSON / WARNER BROS. PICTURES / TNS)

‘Mississippi Burning’ FBI agents investigate after a group of civil rights workers goes missing. Watch it on Cinemax Go.

(PATTI PERRET / AMAZON / TNS)

in this fictional film. Watch it on Amazon Prime Video. ‘Roots’ Based on Alex Haley’s novel, this eight-part miniseries follows a family struggling to survive slavery and regain freedom over many generations. Watch it on FuboTV or HBO Max.

‘Moonlight’ Chiron, a young Black man growing up in Miami, strug‘One Night in Miami’ gles with his identity through Muhammad Ali, Malcolm childhood, adolescence and X, Sam Cooke and Jim Brown adulthood. Watch the Acaddiscuss their roles in the civil emy Award-winning film on rights movement of the 1960s Netflix.

‘12 Years a Slave’ Prior to the Civil War, Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor) – a free Black man from upstate New York – is kidnapped and sold into slavery. Watch the Academy Award-winning film on Hulu. ‘Malcolm X’ This tribute film follows the life of Black Nationalist leader Malcolm X. Watch it on HBO Max. ‘The Hate You Give’ Based on Angie Thomas’ book, “The Hate U Give” follows Starr Thomas, a teen caught between two worlds – the poor, mostly Black neighborhood in which she lives and the wealthy, mostly white school she attends – who witnesses the fatal shooting of her friend. Watch it on FuboTV.

‘I Am Not Your Negro’ Based on James Baldwin’s unfinished book, this documentary looks at Black history from Martin Luther King, Jr. to the Black Lives Matter movement. Watch it on Netflix or Tubi. ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ Tensions rise between Ma Rainey, her horn player and the recording studio’s white management in 1927 Chicago. Watch it on Netflix. ‘Marshall’ “It’s about Thurgood Marshall, the African American lawyer who became the first Black Supreme Court Justice,” Harrell said. “It kind of gives an account of his life before that momentous Supreme Court decision that effectively abolished segregation.” Watch it starting at $3.99 on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play or YouTube. ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ An 11-year-old with a talent for spelling hopes to compete SEE BLACK, PAGE E11

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021 | E7

MOVIES ONLINE STREAMING

‘Penguin Bloom,’ ‘Palmer’ lead new releases By Michael O’Sullivan

Available on Operabox. 90 minutes.

Washington Post

Based on a true story, “Penguin Bloom” is an Australian drama about Sam Bloom (Naomi Watts), who was left paralyzed from the chest down after an accident while on vacation, and how her feelings of despair and helplessness are alleviated by the arrival of an abandoned magpie – dubbed Penguin – that her son (Griffin Murray-Johnston) brings home to care for. Sam’s sense of hopelessness affects the whole family, from her saintly husband (Andrew Lincoln) to their three adorable sons. Her self-pity makes for a familiar and superficially uneventful narrative, despite Penguin’s scary and sad disappearance after she is attacked and injured by other magpies. But Watts’s carefully modulated and unhistrionic performance – aided by gorgeous beachside scenery and an appealing supporting cast that includes Jacki Weaver – ultimately elevates the sweetly inspirational film beyond melodrama. TV-14. Available on Netflix. Contains a disturbing accident scene and some strong language. 95 minutes.

New England TRAVELER CAPE COD From left, Justin Timberlake, Ryder Allen and June Squibb in “Palmer.” (APPLE TV PLUS)

some adults. This leads Palmer, who must overcome his own initial disapproval, complete with skeptical side eye, to become Sam’s protector. The film’s message about the harmful psychological effects of toxic masculinity is a nice one, but the story is marred by cliche, including a redemptive love interest for the protagonist, in the form of Sam’s pretty teacher (Alisha Wainwright). R. Available on Apple TV Plus. Contains crude language, some sexuality, nudity and brief violence. 110 minutes.

Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s supernatural 1839 story and set to a new recording of Philip Glass’s opera, with a libretto by Arthur Yorinks, “The Fall of the House of Usher” is a feature film incorporating animation – both hand-drawn and stop-mo-

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Also streaming Ukraine’s official Oscar submission, “Atlantis” is a dystopian love story, set in

a post-apocalyptic desert in the year 2025. Despite the film’s lack of sci-fi bells and whistles, the film’s writer, director and cinematographer, Valentyn Vasyanovych, and his cast manage to make “Atlantis,” according to the New York Times, both “heartening and stupefying.” Unrated. Available at afisilver.afi.com. In Ukrainian and English with subtitles. 108 minutes.

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Justin Timberlake plays Eddie Palmer, a paroled felon who moves in with his Louisiana grandmother (June Squibb, always a delight) while trying to reintegrate into society via a job as a school janitor in “Palmer.” Directed by actor-turned-filmmaker Fisher Stevens, the drama centers on the relationship between the ever-sullen, prone-to-violence Palmer, as he prefers to be called, and a cheerful if misfit moppet named Sam (Ryder Allen), whom Palmer takes in after the boy’s meth-head mother (Juno Temple) disappears. Sam likes dressing up as a princess and wearing lipstick, habits that causes him to be bullied by classmates – and

From Iranian filmmaker Kourosh Ahari, “The Night” is the first American-produced film licensed to be shown in Iran since the revolution of 1979. The tale of a couple and their infant daughter stuck in a creepy hotel possesses Andriy Rymaruk stars in “Atan “aura of almost beautiful lantis.” (GRASSHOPPER FILM) stillness, interspersed with moments of shock,” accordtion – and curated archival ing to the Chicago Sun-Times. “ ... To say they’re in for a footage. Taking place in the bumpy night is like saying the mind of an immigrant girl From left, Andrew Lincoln, Felix Cameron, Griffin Murray-John- held in a U.S. border detention Overlook Hotel from ‘The ston, Naomi Watts and Abe Clifford-Barr appear in a scene center, the tale is available on Shining’ never got a whole lot from “Penguin Bloom.” (JOEL PRATLEY / NETFLIX) a new streaming service of the of repeat business, and yes, Boston Lyric Opera. Unrated. SEE STREAM, PAGE E12

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Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

WITH TABLE 3

FEBRUARY 10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;14 Whether er itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a romantic meal created just for Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day enjoye enjoyed ed at o one ne of ou our award-winning restaurants RU D TXLHW PHDO DW KRPH QH[W WR D FR]\ Ä&#x2020;UH 7DEOH KDV VRPH JUHDW RSWLRQV IRU \RXU 9DOHQWLQHÃ¨V FHOHEUDWLRQ THE DUCK & AVELLINOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talented chefs have crafted some fantastic Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specials for dine in, take home, or for delivery.* Due to limited seating capacity, Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specials will be available Wednesday through Sunday. To celebrate with that someone special, please call 508-347-2321 for reservations or to pre-order take-out meals. CEDAR STREET GRILLE at The Barn will be also open Wednesday through Sunday to serve up some amazing small plates, entrÃ©es, and chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specials. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also be offering a brunch on Sunday from 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;2pm. Take-out orders with curbside pick-up and delivery* will be available. Place your order on-line or you can always call the restaurant directly. Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is always busy at Cedar Street Grille, so plan ahead and make your reservation now by calling 508-347-5800.

*Delivery available Friday and Saturday night and only in Sturbridge.

TABLE 3 RESTAURANT GROUP

Dine in, Take out, and Save!

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021 | E9

WINE & DINE

‘Immune-boosting’ foods latest dining trend

URING A TIME when a potent virus casts long shadows over everyday life, it’s not surprising that many are looking for ways to enhance their resistance to disease. Flavor & the Menu, an online and print publication that tracks restaurant and food service menu trends, has identified “immune-boosting” as a characteristic that an increasing number of today’s consumers would like to see in the foods they enjoy.

Hugh Robert Off The Menu

With key minerals and vitamins identified as potentially enhancing immune response to COVID-19, a number of savvy restaurant operators have focused on offering “functional foods,” the generic label applied to those ingredients and menu components thought to be health-promoting. These include a whole array of fruits and vegetables, some familiar, others more exotic “superfoods,” as well as juices, spices, and various supplements. Chefs and restaurant owners are currently reacting to this trend by developing menu offerings featuring immunity-boosting foods.

mune-boosting creations. The beverage category is a second area Flavor & the Menu identified as providing opportunities to promote immune-response enhancement. The full article, “Immunity on the Menu,” can be accessed at getflavor.com/ january-february-2021immunity-on-the-menu.

“Immune-boosting” foods, such as kale, are the latest dining trend according to Flavor & the Menu, an online and print publication that tracks restaurant and food service menu trends. (METRO CREATIVE ARTS)

Side dishes • Sue and Mark Tansey of Partners Restaurant in Feeding Hills are standing by to help out those who want to host a Super Bowl party on Sunday. The Tanseys have put together a menu that they describe as a “super feeding frenzy.” It includes fan favorites like a jumbo cold cut grinder, meatballs in sauce, bacon and cheddar potato skins, Buffalo chicken thighs, and three different dips. The total package, the Tanseys say, is enough to accommodate six to 10 guests. They’re also suggesting add-ons like chili, clam chowder, shrimp cocktail, and jumbo cookies. The Superbowl Party package must be ordered by today and will be available for pickup on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information and an online ordering link are available at partnersrestaurant.com. Orders can also be placed by phone at 413-7860975.

Flavor & the Menu interviewed chefs from across the U.S. who are adding so-called immunity foods into their menus, using “superfood” ingredients like kale, turmeric, mushrooms, and salmon, all of which are particularly rich in desirable nutrients. In addition to developing menu items that enhance immune support, chefs and restaurant owners are exploring ways to promote those dishes. Some operators are suggesting a special menu “bullet” by which to identify such offerings while • Boston Market locations others are experimenting with have joined in the chicken separate menu categories sandwich wars, launching a SEE MENU, PAGE E11 where they list supposedly im-

Readers share their take on Guinness taste

VEN AFTER 17 years, I’m always a bit amazed (and pleased, of course) to see that people from all over the world read this column. Such is the nature of the internet. My most recent encounter with this came from emails regarding a column about Guinness, specifically how I blended Guinness Foreign Extra Stout and Draught Stout in an attempt to replicate the taste brewed decades ago. There were many replies, some from Massachusetts, but also ones from places as far and wide as Virginia, Illinois, and the United Kingdom. A lot of folks merely chimed in to say they agree that Guinness doesn’t taste the same as it used to, and others offered various takes on the subject. Here is a sampling: A few folks wrote in to say that they had heard that Guinness used to use fish bladders as a filtration, and maybe that changed the beer when they stopped. It’s true that Guinness used isinglass, which is made from the dried fish swim bladders. Many brewers have used this form of collagen for the clarification of their beers, and yes, Guinness stopped in 2017. But the taste difference predates that switch by 20 years. Daniel agreed with my assessment and wondered if the company “did a subtle tweak to the grain bill in an effort to cut costs … cut down on malt and introduce rice? Different water system?” While those are all possibilities, I don’t think they introduced rice, nor do I think they were trying to cut costs. My belief is that they slightly changed the process in order to get it more quickly to the market. But again, this

George Lenker Beer Nut

is all conjecture (albeit with an alleged result that many Guinness drinkers have noticed). Likewise, Sandy offered the guess that maybe the “USA version includes high fructose corn syrup and the Irish version does not.” That seems unlikely as I doubt Guinness would allow any change that would radically alter the flavor. The change I’m talking about is subtle, but noticeable, at least to a fair amount of us. But I think that sort of bigger change would be more egregious. And last, but certainly not least, is an email from Bob in the U.K., who not only agrees with me, but serendipitously has been way ahead of me on this. I’ll let him tell the story: “Just read your article about combining Guinness draught and Foreign Extra. I’ve been doing the exact same for years. In fact I often buy myself 24 bottles of extra and 24 cans of draught (lockdown). I pour the whole can straight into a pint glass and take a swig, then slowly add the extra. The drink gets more quaffabble towards the end.” So there you have it folks. Thanks to everyone who wrote in and if anyone besides Bob ends up trying the experiment, please let me know at geolenker@yahoo. com. Sláinte!

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WINE & DINE

Pairing wines with 5 classic Super Bowl snacks

OU DON’T HAVE to be a football fan to appreciate the Super Bowl. (Then again, you couldn’t plan a better matchup – age (Brady) versus youth (Mahomes), the defending champions (Kansas City Chiefs) versus the veterans with something to prove (Tampa Bay Buccaneers). Some people watch the game just for the commercials. Others tune in just to see the halftime show. But almost everyone can agree on one thing. The food. Well, not exactly. Some love nachos. Others prefer chicken wings. The bottom line is most of us agree that the Super Bowl Sunday is all about the snacks. And while most people will probably wash all that food down with beer, who says you can’t have wine during the game instead? But what wines go best with nachos or chili or guacamole? Fear not, Super Bowl fans. Below, behold my wine recommendations for some of the Greatest Of All Time (aka Tom Brady to most New England fans) Super Bowl snacks. Hope you enjoy and hope it’s a great game!

Ken Ross Wine Press

And while most people will probably wash all that food down with beer, who says you can’t have wine during the game instead?

very spicy, fire engine hot chili. I’m a total wimp when it comes to chili and steer more towards the mellow, Kenny G version of chili. But I think we can all agree there’s no better sports food, particularly since chili pairs so perfectly with nachos. Recommended wines: While I cannot speak from experience, I will say there are certain wines that go better with very spicy foods. If you prefer you chili on the red hot Ken Ross recommends pairing nachos with blended red wines side, stock up before game from France’s Bordeaux region or Rhone region for Super Bowl day on German riesling white Sunday. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) wine, especially ones on the drier side. If your prefer chili that tastes more like food instead of molten lava, may I recommend a red malbec from Argentina’s Mendoza region?

5. Chicken wings I often wonder what happens to the rest of the chicken on days like Super Bowl Sunday. Millions of people will consume millions of chicken wings. Where does the rest of the chicken go? Why are we so obsessed with the wing? Is For chicken wings, Ken Ross recommends paring them with an it because we can’t fly? I want 2. Pizza to know! OK, enough of my Oregon pinot noir or Italian prosecco. ( DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN I could (and will) write an trying to channel Jim Gaffigan FILE PHOTO) entire column about what or Jerry Seinfeld. My point is wines go great with pizza. Here nia red zinfandel. Mushroom open a bottle of wine that goes I think we can all agree that pizza? You can’t go wrong with great with the cheddar cheese, chicken wings are a huge hit again, it all depends on what a Spanish albarino white wine. salsa and other assorted type of pizza you’re having on Super Bowl Sunday – or 1. Potato chips – thin crust or deep dish, red flavors. And the wines that frankly any day of any week. 3. Nachos When it comes to foods sauce or white sauce. And come to mind in this particuRecommended wines: sports fans love to eat while You can’t easily make potato lar case include blended red then there are all the toppings, One of the great things about watching a game, no article chips at home. Same goes wines from France’s Bordeaux chicken wings is how versatile from pepperoni and sausage would be complete if it didn’t region or Rhone region. Like a they are when it comes to pairto mushrooms, black olives or for good pizza – unless your ing them with different wines. include potato chips. I will ad- anchovies. The possibilities kitchen comes equipped with a great plate of nachos, a blend mit I don’t eat as many chips as are endless – and so are the wood-fired brick oven. But you of several different grapes goes From Champagne to CaliI used to. That’s partly because wines that taste great with can easily make a fairly decent into making wines from these fornia cabernet sauvignon to chardonnay, you can honestly these delicious morsels in a plate of nachos. When it comes two legendary French wine pizza. bag seem to be specifically deto nachos, I’m a fan of corn regions. And you don’t have a open a dozen different types Recommended wines: signed to pack on the pounds of wine and they would all spend a fortune either. There Let’s keep this simple for Super chips, cheese, black olives, around the waist as quickly as Bowl Sunday. The vast maprobably go great with wings. scallions and salsa. I also pre- are many, great affordable jority of pizzas consumed on fer mine on the mild side com- red wines from both of these possible. But that’s one of the I personally recommend an this unofficial national holiday pared to my wife, who lives great things about sporting Oregon pinot noir or Italian regions, which I have written for anything on the extreme have no toppings (other than events like the Super Bowl. about here many times before, prosecco with your wings. But cheese) or pepperoni/ sausage spice range. (I once witnessed including in my recent column honestly, anything you open Everyone has an excuse to crack open a bag or two during or mushroom. If you decide to my wife eat chicken wings at about the Top 10 Wines Under will probably taste great, especially if it’s a great game. have a plain pizza, you can’t go a restaurant that came with a the game. $10 for 2020. Recommended wines: De- wrong with a hearty, red wine written warning because they Cheers! 4. Chili pending on what type of potato from Italy’s Montepulciano Wine Press by Ken Ross apwere so insanely hot.) pears on Masslive.com every As with nachos, you can chips you like (regular, sea salt region or Spain’s Rioja region. Recommended wines: easily make a great pot of chili Monday and in The Republican’s and vinegar, dill, etc.), there If you prefer your nachos on Ordering a pepperoni pizza? weekend section every Thursday. at home. Many people prefer are several wines that go great Pair that with a robust, Califor- the mild side like me, I would

with potato chips. Champagne from France or cava from Spain pair perfectly with these salty snacks. So does sauvignon blanc from New Zealand or other, dry, tart white wines like gruner veltliner from Austria.

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Menu CONTINUED FROM PAGE E9

limited-time-only Nashville Hot Crispy Chicken Sandwich. The sandwich features a crispy chicken breast filet drenched in smoky, Nashville-style hot sauce. Prepared on a brioche bun, the sandwich construct is garnished with pickles and ranch dressing. Boston Market is also using its Nashville hot sauce, based on a blend of chili powder, garlic, cayenne pepper, sugar, and “secret spices,” to create a new version of its signature spit-roasted chicken. The resulting Nashville Hot Rotisserie Chicken comes garnished with pickles and is served with two sides. There is a Boston Market Rotisserie Kitchen location at 1387 Boston Road (at Parker Street) in Springfield. The phone number is 413-2713808.

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legs. Among the entree selections can be found “wild things” like elk stroganoff, a buffalo ribeye, stuffed quail, and bone-in half pheasant. The Student Prince is currently observing a five-daysa-week operating schedule; for more information call 413-734-7475.

• Participating Pizza Hut locations are currently promoting Detroit-style pizza as a limited-time-only offering. A Motor City favorite dating back to 1946, authentic Detroit-style pizza has a number of distinguishing characterisThe Student Prince and The Fort Restaurant in Springfield is tics. These include its distinccelebrating the return of its socially distanced Sunday brunch tive rectangular shape and its this Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. February is also Game reverse layering of sauce over Month at the restaurant. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) cheese and toppings, with the sauce usually dolloped includes two pizzas and two com/BELAVEGETARIAN) across the pie in “racing salads. or can be accessed by texting stripes.” Typically made with Also “new on the menu” at MENU to 413-977-9261. processed Brick cheese, a Panera is a Teriyaki Chicken Orders can subsequently be Midwestern specialty, Detroit & Broccoli Bowl. placed by calling the restaupizzas depend on a long-ferrant’s main number 413-586- mented dough to produce a There are Panera Bread 8011. Patrons pick up and crust that’s soft, chewy, and locations in Chicopee, East pay (cash only, exact change, yet crunchy at the edges. Longmeadow, West Spring• As the winter of pandem- field, and Hadley. in an envelope, or by check) Detroit-style pies have ic continues on, a number of from a table in front of the become a hot food trend over well-known area restaurants • While major chains have restaurant. the last few years, and Pizza have decided to take a break relied on strong brand idenA special pleasure that Bela Hut is capitalizing on that tity, digital platforms, and and await improved operoffers is its selection of vege- popularity growth by taking ating conditions later in the tarian-inspired, house-made its version of Detroit-style economies of scale, many year. desserts. Some recent sweet small independent restaunationwide in four different Among the operations mak- rants have found themselves treats have included a gluvariations. ing this difficult hiatus choice struggling in the face of pan- ten-free German chocolate Pizza Hut’s Detroit Double demic-related challenges. are Spoleto in Northampcake and a masala-chai carrot Pepperoni pie features at ton and the Blue Heron Bella Vegetarian Restau- cake with cream cheese least 80 slices of pepperoni Restaurant in Sunderland. rant in Northampton frosting. in two forms – regular and Both cite the difficulty in certainly qualifies for such “cupped and crispy.” doing business with limits on a “small independent” des• The Student Prince A Double Cheesy employs ignation. The establishment inside seating and a wish to and The Fort Restaurant both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, while a Meaty protect the well-being of their does business out of a funky in Springfield is celebrating Deluxe is made with sausage, storefront on Gothic Street; in the return of its socially respective staff members as an age when digital payment distanced Sunday brunch this bacon, and “cupped” pepmotivating the temporary is dominant, Bella remains a Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. peroni. The Supremo Detroit shutdown decision. Pizza gets topped with sau“cash-only” operation. Billed as a “Big Game Day • Participating Panera sage, peppers, and onions. One thing that Bella does Tailgate Brunch,” the menu Bread Bakery Cafes recent- have going for it is the ability will feature selections such as The four pies, which Pizza ly expanded their menu of Hut is characterizing as its to produce eclectic vegetarimeatballs, BBQ pulled pork, an fare. The options its kitch- Thai chicken wings, and a flatbread pizzas. biggest menu launch of 2021, The new Pepperoni Flaten turns out have an ability all feature a richer sauce and carving station stocked with bread features pepperoni and to satisfy that can make even pork roast. the distinctive “frico” (crispyfresh mozzarella along with the most resolute of carniedged) crust for which DeFebruary is also Game vores flirt with the idea of troit-style pizza is legendary. a tomato-bell pepper sauce, Month at the restaurant, going “meat free.” while a Four Cheese Flatreflecting a Student Prince bread brings together a garlic Bela’s current operational Hugh Robert is a faculty tradition that goes back cream sauce with four cheese strategy is to be open for member in Holyoke Commudecades. nity College’s hospitality and varieties – mozzarella, Fonti- takeout on Thursdays, FriThis year’s Game Month na, Parmesan, and feta. days, and Saturdays from 3 menu feature appetizers such culinary arts program and has As well as being available p.m. to 7 p.m. nearly 45 years of restaurant as game soup, “sloppy doe” separately, the pizzas can be The restaurant’s menu for and educational experience. sliders (they’re made with enjoyed as part of a Flatbread the week is available on its ground venison), crispy duck Robert can be reached online at Family Meal Feast, which Facebook page (facebook. OffTheMenuGuy@aol.com. wings, and deep-fried frogs

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in the National Spelling Bee. Watch it on HBO Max. ‘Imitation of Life’ There are two versions of this movie (1934 and 1959) based on Fannie Hurst’s novel, which “was one of the very early books that kind of dealt with the problem of being Black and the problem of race in America,” Harrell said. Watch the 1959 version starting at $3.99 on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, iTunes or YouTube. ‘BlacKkKlansman’ Based on real events, an African American detective from Colorado Springs infiltrates the local Ku Klux Klan branch with help from his white colleague. Watch it on Hulu Live TV or Sling TV. ‘John Henrik Clarke: A Great and Mighty Walk’ Author and historian John Henrik Clarke describes his personal history and his views on the history of Africa and of Pan-Africanism. Watch it on YouTube. ‘13th’ This documentary gives an in-depth look at the U.S. prison system and racial inequality. Watch it on Netflix. ‘Unchained Memories: Readings from the Slave Narratives’ Well-known Black actors voice the stories of former slaves interviewed during the 1930s as part of the Federal Writers’ Project. Watch it on YouTube. ‘Hip-Hop Evolution’ This docuseries traces the evolution of hip-hop. Watch it on Netflix. “The (shows and movies) I mentioned are representations of important things to know and understand in and of themselves, but they’re not the sum total of what is needed to be known and understood,” Harrell said. “What these things can do is to help folks develop a thirst for even more understanding of what our society is, what it has been, what it could be, what it should be.”

E12 | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

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From left, Hiromi Nagasaku, Reo Sato and Arata Iura appear in “True Mothers.” (FILM MOVEMENT)

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there are many similarities to Kubrick’s classic ahead, from the creepy, ghostlike receptionist (George Maguire) to the sudden appearance of a child in a hotel hallway to one spouse wondering if the other has gone completely, Niousha Jafarian stars in “The dangerously mad.” Unrated. Night.” (IFC MIDNIGHT) Available on various streaming platforms. In English and Farsi “Psycho Goreman” is a with subtitles. 106 minutes. sci-fi horror comedy about Filmed over three years, suburban siblings (Nita-Josee the documentary “NotturHanna and Owen Myre) who no” looks at the people who find themselves in possession live on the borders between of a magical amulet that gives Iraq, Kurdistan, Syria and them control over an ancient Lebanon, amid war, foreign alien overlord who they find invasion and the scourge of buried in their backyard, the Islamic State. Director and whose plans of galactic Gianfranco Rosi, accorddestruction are thwarted by ing to Rolling Stone, avoids his masters’ childish whims. the “easy pornography of Variety calls the film “cleverly trauma,” focusing instead on schlocky.” Unrated. Available “the surreality of what the at afisilver.afi.com. 92 minutes. people he films experience as everyday life.” Unrated. AvailJapan’s official Oscar subable at afisilver.afi.com and on mission, “True Mothers” tells Hulu. In Arabic and Kurdish the story of a couple whose with subtitles. 100 minutes. comfortable life with their adopted son is upended by the In “Our Friend,” a couple arrival of a woman claiming to (Casey Affleck and Dakobe the child’s biological mothta Johnson) are assisted in er. The Hollywood Reporter their struggle with the wife’s calls the film a “lush visual ovarian cancer by the arrival reworking of parental angst of a selfless friend (Jason and despair, offset by frequent Segel). The New York Times interludes of communing calls the fact-based drama with that great healer, Mother a “Lifetime-ready weepie.” Nature.” Unrated. Available at R. Available at themiracletheafisilver.afi.com and angeatre.com; also in theaters. 124 likaanywhere.com. In Japanese minutes. with subtitles. 140 minutes.