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:

February 11, 2023
Somebody I Used to Know Review: Dream Big and Ditch the Romance
Stick it out through Somebody I Used to Know’s bumpy first half, and you’ll find Dave Franco and Alison Brie’s latest delves into something worthy of deeper exploration.

February 5, 2023
Arctic: Our Frozen Planet Review
BBC Earth’s latest, Arctic: Our Frozen Planet, provides a gorgeous but sombre reminder that this stunning but fragile ecosystem is crumbling.

January 24, 2023
2023 Oscar Nominations: Everything Everywhere All At Once Comes Out on Top
The 2023 Oscar nominations are in and the sublimely surreal Everything Everywhere All at Once leads the pack with 11 nods.

January 22, 2023
Make Me Famous Review: A Vivid Portrait of Unsung Artist Edward Brezinski
Make Me Famous serves as a moving reminder that fame is far from egalitarian and often eludes even the most talented artists.

January 19, 2023
Stonehouse: The Stars and Filmmakers on Bringing this Truly Bonkers Real Story to Life
Matthew Macfadyen, Kevin McNally, Emer Heatley, director Jon S. Baird & writer John Preston talk about their new Britbox miniseries, Stonehouse””a fictionalized look at one of the most memorable scandals in British political history.

November 29, 2022
Interview: Willow’s Ruby Cruz and Tony Revolori
Two of Willow’s intrepid fellowship, Ruby Cruz and Tony Revolori, talk with That Shelf about venturing back into this beloved fantasy world.

November 21, 2022
Delve Deep into the Disney Icon in Mickey: The Story of a Mouse
Mickey: The Story of a Mouse delves into the relationship between the iconic character, his creator and over 100 years of cultural change. Learn more from the team behind the new Disney Plus doc.

November 9, 2022
Interview: Director Lindsay MacKay’s The Swearing Jar
The filmmaker talks to That Shelf about the film’s characters, her (spoiler-free) personal connection to the story and, of course, what it was like directing an icon like Kathleen Turner.

October 9, 2022
For Love Review: Shining the Spotlight on Systemic Abuses
Essential viewing for all, this new doc examines the links between (and the legacy of abuse and trauma from) residential schools and the child welfare system.

September 22, 2022
EXCLUSIVE: First Trailer for BritBox’s Karen Pirie
That Shelf and BritBox are bringing you an exclusive trailer for Karen Pirie, a new 3-part cold case detective drama.

September 19, 2022
TIFF 2022: A Playlist of Memorable Soundtrack Moments
From Weird Al to Bowie and beyond, we round up the memorable songs that stuck with us from the films we loved at this year’s 11-day festival.

September 18, 2022
TIFF 2022: The Lost King Review
Sally Hawkins shines, but Stephen Frears’ The Lost King isn’t quite the cinematic jewel in the crown it sets out to be.

September 14, 2022
TIFF 2022: Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery Review
With Glass Onion, Rian Johnson turns the volume up to 11 and manages to deliver a mystery every bit as entertaining as its predecessor.

September 11, 2022
TIFF 2022: One Fine Morning Review
Mia Hansen-Løve’s follow-up to 2021’s Bergman Island is a simple but emotional character piece that ruminates on relationships and on the difficulties inherent in appreciating life as it comes.

August 8, 2022
Jason Isaacs to Play Cary Grant in “Archie”
Jason Isaacs is set to star in Archie, a four-part limited series about the life of Hollywood leading man, Cary Grant…and we cannot wait.

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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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2/9

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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