Movies Update: The Year in Movies and More

Critic’s Notebook

David Fincher, the Unhappiest Auteur

The director makes beautiful bummers in an industry that prefers happy endings. Perhaps that’s why his movies seem like an endangered species.

By Manohla Dargis

Critic’s Notebook

The Bruce Willis Journey From In Demand to On Demand

An assessment of the actor’s late-career B-movie filmography, including his most recent entry, “Breach.”

By Elisabeth Vincentelli

Vanessa Kirby Has Been Waiting for a Role That Scares Her

For her first lead in a film, the actress wanted a character as challenging as many of those she’s played onstage. She found it in Kornel Mundruczo’s “Pieces of a Woman.”

By Eleanor Stanford

A History of the Cheetah in ‘Wonder Woman’

This villain, played by Kristen Wiig in “Wonder Woman 1984,” has had a long, complicated relationship with her rival.

By Devin Fuller

For His Second Act, Nnamdi Asomugha Made Preparation His Byword

The former pro football player has pushed himself in acting classes, onstage and in films. His latest drama, “Sylvie’s Love,” also meant returning to an early passion: music.

By Gina Cherelus

Critic’s Notebook

Jazz Onscreen, Depicted by Black Filmmakers at Last

“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” “Sylvie’s Love” and “Soul” understand the music and its place in African-American life, a welcome break with Hollywood history.

By Giovanni Russonello

Wonder Woman and Her Evolving Look

She remained steadfast in her decades-long fight for justice, but her costumes ranged from a golden-eagle emblem and skirt to a W logo breastplate and leggings.

By George Gene Gustines