Monica Castillo

Monica Castillo, a freelance film critic and programmer, dives into Paul Thomas Anderson's powerful film, One Battle After Another. They discuss Leonardo DiCaprio's role as a troubled ex-revolutionary and Sean Penn's flamboyant villainy that adds urgency to the narrative. With a focus on critiques of white supremacy, they explore the film's timing and potent political messages. Monica also reflects on real-world activism and the complexities of sustaining movements, revealing the film's deeper layers amid thrilling IMAX visuals and stunning cinematography.

Monica Castillo, freelance film critic and festival programmer, and Mandalit Del Barco, NPR Culture Desk correspondent, share their Sundance favorites. They discuss a Depression-era thriller with Ethan Hawke, a quiet romance starring Chris Pine, a powerful documentary about Harlem, and films about rebellious artists and queer archival work. Quick, lively festival highlights and top picks.

Monica Castillo, a freelance film critic and programmer, dives into the action-thriller 'One Battle After Another.' She shares insights on Leonardo DiCaprio's role as a washed-up revolutionary and discusses Sean Penn's portrayal of a racist antagonist. Monica highlights the film's sharp visual style and urgent pacing, particularly praising a riveting IMAX car chase. The conversation also explores themes of activist fatigue and the complexities of revolutionary leadership, alongside lighter moments about their current happy finds, including Bad Bunny's livestream.