Author | Emma Badame

Emma Badame

Managing Editor / Senior Critic Emma is a Grade-A pop culture nerd. Aside from garnering her a one-time win on Jeopardy!, she's parlayed that passion into a careerâ interviewing everyone from Emma Thompson to Yorgos Lanthimos. Emma spends her days as a digital content specialist for award-winning features and documentaries, as well as accompanying film Impact Campaigns. Over the years, she has produced extensive coverage of TIFF, Comic-Con, and D23, and has been featured on/in eTalk, CBC News, POV Magazine,The Mary Sue, Cineplex Magazine, Smart Entertainment, MuchMusic, CTV's PopLife, CityTV's Breakfast Television, TALK 1010, and more. Emma is also a film programmer with the Rendezvous With Madness Film Festival and has served on the Short Film Jury at the AoDR Film Awards. She is also a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic and a member of the Alliance of Women Film Journalists (AWFJ). If she's not watching movies or TV, she's probably planning another trip to London or watching another British panel show.

Articles by Emma Badame:

June 24, 2023
The Full Monty: An Uneven Sequel Series with Heart
The Full Monty is unlikely to satisfy viewers looking for a repeat of the original, but with some charming performances, it may gain some new fans.

June 22, 2023
EXCLUSIVE New Trailer for BritBox’s Alan Carr’s Adventures with Agatha Christie!
Catch this preview of the brand new, hilarious travelogue that offers a fresh perspective on the Queen of Crime’s life and work.

June 16, 2023
Elemental Review: Stunning Visuals Uplift a So-So Story
Despite stunning visuals, Disney/Pixar’s latest film, Elemental , gets bogged down in the telling before ever really getting off the ground.

June 2, 2023
Bones of Crows Review: A Stirring Testament to Resilience and Persistence
A stirring indictment of colonialization and testament to resilience and persistence, Bones of Crows is made all the more powerful by Grace Dove’s richly layered central performance.

May 23, 2023
Interview: Jared Harris on the many sides of his famous father and new doc The Ghost of Richard Harris
Jared Harris about the many facets of his famous father, and re: the new documentary that explores them all: The Ghost of Richard Harris.

May 13, 2023
Interview: Mckenna Grace and Isaiah Russell-Bailey on Disney’s New Sci-Fi Adventure Crater
Young stars Mckenna Grace and Isaiah Russell-Bailey give us a glimpse behind the scenes of Disney’s new sci-fi adventure, Crater.

May 9, 2023
Hot Docs 2023: Coven Review
Documentary fans will be truly entranced by Canadian filmmaker Rama Rau’s latest ”” a captivating tale of three women re-claiming and channelling their innate and natural power.

April 26, 2023
EXCLUSIVE: Season 2 Trailer for BritBox’s The Cleaner
Catch the exclusive trailer for Season 2 of BritBox’s The Cleaner, starring BAFTA-nominated fan-fave Greg Davies and a bevy of impressive guest stars.

April 12, 2023
Bystanders Trailer and Poster Premiere
Catch the very first trailer for Canadian director Koumbie’s feature debut, Bystanders””a story about consent and community.

March 23, 2023
EXCLUSIVE: Season 2 Trailer for BritBox’s Sister Boniface Mysteries
That Shelf and BritBox are bringing you an exclusive trailer for BritBox Original Sister Boniface Mysteries, which is back for a second season starting April 4.

March 19, 2023
Class of ’07 Interview: Emily Browning and Caitlin Stasey on finding yourself in the apocalypse
Is the apocalypse the ideal situation to find yourself? Probably not. But if not then, when? Class of ’07 stars Emily Browning and Caitlin Stasey give us the lowdown on their new Prime Video dark comedy.

March 15, 2023
The 2023 TIFF Next Wave Film Festival lineup is here!
The 2023 TIFF Next Wave Film Festival celebrates the filmmakers of tomorrow and promises young cinephiles a programme of bold new tales.

February 26, 2023
Director Frances O’Connor on blending fact and fiction in Emily
Emily director Frances O’Connor geeks out with our Managing Editor over a mutual love of the Brontës, and they discuss the decision to blend historical fact with fiction.

February 23, 2023
Emily Review: A moody showcase for a magnetic Emma Mackey
Frances O’Connor’s fictional portrait of author Emily Brontë provides a moody and atmospheric showcase for a magnetic Emma Mackey.

February 23, 2023
Kris Marshall, Sally Bretton and Barbara Flynn on their Death in Paradise spin-off, Beyond Paradise
“It’s a frolic!” Stars Kris Marshall, Sally Bretton and Barbara Flynn discuss their highly anticipated Death in Paradise spin-off, Beyond Paradise.

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Remembering Sebastián Lelio (1974–2026). One of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Chilean cinema, Sebastián Lelio built an extraordinary body of work exploring identity, desire, faith, freedom, and the complexities of being human. His films often placed women at the centre of their own stories, approaching their experiences with sensitivity, curiosity, and an unwavering sense of humanity. He first gained international recognition with Gloria, a tender and deeply moving portrait of a middle-aged woman rediscovering herself, which earned widespread acclaim and was later remade in English with Julianne Moore. He went on to direct A Fantastic Woman, which made history as the first Chilean film to win the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. His other notable works include Disobedience, The Wonder, and The Year of the Tiger. Throughout his career, Lelio demonstrated a remarkable ability to move between languages, cultures, and genres while maintaining a distinctive cinematic voice. His films challenged conventions, made room for complicated characters, and invited audiences to see the world from different perspectives. His work leaves an important mark on Chilean cinema and international filmmaking, and his stories will continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
5 hours ago
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1/9

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The Only Living Pickpocket in New York follows Harry Lehman, an aging pickpocket struggling to survive in a city that has moved on from cash and the old ways of doing business. When he unknowingly steals a USB key tied to a dangerous criminal operation, Harry finds himself caught in a race against time that forces him to confront his past and the people he has left behind. John Turturro delivers a tender, compelling performance as a man caught between nostalgia and a changing world, with Steve Buscemi and Tatiana Maslany adding to the film’s strong cast. However, an overly predictable plot and underdeveloped character motivations prevent this crime drama from reaching its full potential, despite its evocative New York atmosphere and glimpses of a more compelling story. 📝 Full review by Andrea Miller now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
4 days ago
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Wicker follows a lonely Fisherwoman, played by Olivia Colman, who has grown tired of being judged by her medieval village for failing to meet its beauty standards and expectations of womanhood. She asks a local Basketweaver to make her a husband, resulting in a devoted companion made entirely of willow. But as their unconventional romance blossoms, their happiness begins to threaten the village’s established social order. Blending fairy-tale fantasy with raunchy humour and heartfelt romance, the film offers a thoughtful exploration of gender politics, societal expectations, and the freedom to define happiness on your own terms. Colman and Alexander Skarsgård share charming chemistry, while the imaginative craftsmanship and beautiful visuals bring this strange, whimsical story to life. What begins as an absurd premise becomes a surprisingly tender celebration of love beyond convention. 📝 Full review by Rachel West now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
6 days ago
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3/9

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A Talent for Murder follows reclusive author Patricia Highsmith during her final years in Switzerland, where a publishing representative named Edward Ridgeway arrives hoping to convince her to write another Tom Ripley novel. What begins as a battle of wills soon turns into a dangerous game of manipulation, lies, and murder as the two collaborate on a new story. Helen Mirren relishes the chance to play the sharp-tongued, unpredictable author, trading deliciously cutting insults with Alden Ehrenreich in a gripping battle of wits. While the film occasionally loses momentum and its psychological thriller elements could go further, the strong performances, dark humour, and eerie atmosphere make for an entertaining mystery. 📝 Full review by Colin Biggs now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
1 week ago
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4/9

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Rest in peace, Patrick Stewart (1940–2026). A distinguished actor whose career spanned more than six decades, Patrick Stewart brought an unmistakable presence, intelligence, and depth to every role he inhabited. Best known to generations of audiences as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, he helped define one of science fiction's most beloved characters, carrying that legacy across films, television, and countless adventures throughout the Star Trek universe. He also became an iconic part of the X-Men franchise as Professor Charles Xavier, bringing warmth, wisdom, and humanity to the legendary mutant leader. Beyond these defining roles, his remarkable filmography includes Excalibur, Dune, Robin Hood: Men in Tights, and Green Room. Before becoming a household name on screen, Stewart spent years honing his craft with the Royal Shakespeare Company, building a celebrated stage career that reflected his extraordinary command of language and performance. Equally at home in Shakespearean drama, science fiction, comedy, and animation, he was an actor whose versatility extended far beyond his most recognizable characters. His contributions to theatre, film, and television leave behind an extraordinary legacy. Live long and prosper, Sir Patrick.
1 week ago
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5/9

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La Bola Negra weaves together three timelines to explore queer love, identity, and the stories that survive across generations. From a musician navigating love and survival during the Spanish Civil War to a playwright uncovering a forgotten piece of queer history in contemporary Spain, the film connects lives shaped by stigma, loss, and the courage to be true to oneself. With soulful music, a richly interconnected narrative, and outstanding performances led by Guitarricadelafuente and Penélope Cruz, the film becomes a moving tribute to queer artists and the histories that deserve to be remembered. Directors Javier Ambrossi and Javier Calvo build on Federico García Lorca’s unfinished play to create an expansive, deeply felt celebration of LGBTQ+ lives, love, and artistic expression. 📝 Full review by Pat Mullen now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
1 week ago
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6/9

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With just 34 days before reporting to federal prison, Elizabeth Holmes invites filmmakers Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim into her home for an unrestricted look at her life. What begins as an offer of complete access becomes an unsettling exploration of truth, performance, and the difficulty of knowing who someone really is. Balancing uncomfortable humour with a fascinating sense of ambiguity, the documentary refuses to offer easy answers about Holmes or her carefully constructed public image. Through intimate cinematography, intricate editing, and Fielder’s signature awkwardness, it challenges audiences to question what they’re seeing, making for an ambitious, thought-provoking film that lingers long after it ends. 📝 Full review by Lyle Kruger now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
2 weeks ago
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7/9

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Rest in peace, Tom Skerritt (1933–2026). A familiar and commanding presence on screen for more than six decades, Skerritt built a remarkable career across film and television, bringing a quiet authority and understated humanity to every role. From Captain Dallas in Alien and Viper in Top Gun to his performances in MASH*, The Turning Point, Steel Magnolias, and A River Runs Through It, he became part of some of cinema’s most enduring stories. On television, he earned an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Sheriff Jimmy Brock in Picket Fences, a role that showcased his ability to balance strength, warmth, and humour. Whether playing a military commander, a father, or a small-town sheriff, Skerritt had a way of making his characters feel grounded and real. With a career spanning generations and more than 170 film and television credits, he leaves behind a body of work that will continue to find new audiences. Thank you for the performances and the lasting mark you left on cinema.
2 weeks ago
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8/9

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Street Fighter brings the iconic video game franchise back to the big screen, following estranged brothers Ryu and Ken as they reunite for the World Warrior Tournament. But with M. Bison plotting to harness the fighters’ power for his own sinister purposes, the competition soon becomes a battle for the fate of the world. Packed with spectacular fight sequences, nostalgic references, and a soundtrack that takes audiences straight back to the ’90s, the film delivers a major upgrade over its predecessor. With a perfectly matched cast, genuinely funny dialogue, and faithful recreations of the game’s signature moves, it balances fan service with entertaining action that newcomers can enjoy, too. 📝 Full review by Sarah Gopaul now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
2 weeks ago
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9/9