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Jesse Hassenger is a freelance writer and editor based in Brooklyn. He contributes to Paste, where he is an associate movies editor, as well as Decider, Inside Hook, Polygon, The Guardian, and Vulture, among others. In the past, he has written for The A.V. Club, The Week, and Nylon. You can hear his voice on The New Flesh Podcast and The SportsAlcohol.com Podcast.

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Shocker: The Animated Movie About Talking Sneakers Is Bad

NEW KICKS, OLD TRICKS

“Toy Story” ripoff “Sneaks” is yet another case of what seems like a “30 Rock” joke about lazy Hollywood coming to life.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Apr 17, 2025

What in God’s Name Is the New Jesus Movie ‘King of Kings’?

WHAT THE DICKENS?

Oscar Isaac stars in an adaptation of the life and times of Jesus Christ, with computer animation that makes all your favorite Bible characters look like bobble-heads.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Apr 16, 2025

Kevin Hart’s Latest TV Series Is Actually Quite Good

THE UPSIDE

The blockbuster comedian has struggled to find a role that fits his specific sensibility. With ‘Lil Kev,’ he finally lands one: his younger self.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Mar 08, 2025

Why Is Everyone Obsessed With Netflix’s ‘The Night Agent’?

I SPY A MEDIOCRE SHOW

It’s certainly a fast-paced binge, but this political thriller starring Gabriel Basso and Luciane Buchanan takes itself too seriously.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Jan 23, 2025

Lori Loughlin’s First Major Role Since Her Scandal Is Rough

TRUE CRIME

In the Prime Video cop series, the former “Full House” star, back to acting after serving time for her role in the Varsity Blues scandal, ironically plays a police lieutenant.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Jan 10, 2025

Tim Allen’s New Cranky Boomer Sitcom Is His Worst Yet

TOOL TIME

Another sitcom where Tim Allen groans about kids these days and woke culture. What fun!

Jesse Hassenger | Published Jan 08, 2025

The Most Famous Songwriter You've Never Heard Of

CHASIN' THE CLOUDS AWAY

Willis wrote the “Friends” theme, “The Color Purple,” and Patti LaBelle hits. Her eclectic life finally gets a spotlight in the new doc “The World According to Allee Willis.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Nov 15, 2024

How Bad Was the Rivalry Between Backstreet Boys and NSYNC?

QUIT PLAYING GAMES

“Larger Than Life: Reign of the Boy Bands” features members of New Kids on the Block, Backstreet Boys, and NSYNC spilling about their pop-star lives and drama.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Nov 12, 2024

Is ‘St. Denis Medical’ the New ‘The Office’?

CODE BLUE

Allison Tolman, Wendi McLendon-Covey, and David Alan Grier star in the new series, which takes the mockumentary format to a hospital.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Nov 11, 2024

Kristen Bell Show ‘Nobody Wants This’ Lives Up to Its Title

OH BELL NO

The Netflix romantic comedy series, which stars the always charming Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, is packed with talent, but it's a pale imitation of better shows.

Jesse Hassenger | Published Sep 26, 2024

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