Purely in concept, the visual depiction of an academic researching histories of racism, segregation and unbalanced power dynamics while writing a book should only be able to evoke snoring in an audience. But writer/director Ava DuVernay’s film, “Origin,” has managed to transcend traditional filmmaking structure, melding fiction, documentary, history and surrealism into a work that not only leaves a profound impact on its viewers, but builds a sound academic thesis in the process. 

“The Many Saints of Newark,” a follow-up to "The Sopranos" is able to balance between nostalgia and genuine entertainment.