Let me preface this week’s review by stating just how much I dislike the title of this movie. Like, who on earth could not come up with a better title than “The Smashing Machine?” Like seriously, with a corny title such as this, it’s no wonder it bombed opening weekend with only $6 million worldwide! And it should be noted that it had a $40 million budget — yikes! Of course it did open up next to Taylor Swift’s new album preview film, not that the target audiences cross paths at all.

With the loss of West Hazleton’s Cinema & Drafthouse, there are now only four movie venues in Luzerne County, and two of them are the always majestic but unfortunately temporary drive-ins, Garden and Moonlite. Movies 14 in Wilkes-Barre and the Regal in Hazle Twp. are year-round consistent presences, as is Cinemark in Moosic, just north of Luzerne County’s border.

Ed Rambeau was born in Hazleton in 1942, and he was always a singer. At Hazleton High School, he wrote and played the lead in his school play. When he met Bud Rehak, he found a manager and a pianist to accompany him in his musical pursuits.

Stephen King is one of the most notorious names in terms of authors whose works have spanned many generations. He has more than 60 novels in print to date, 200 short stories, and more than 60 of his stories have already been adapted into films and television series. Some of the most notable and popular of his book titles adapted to film have been arguably, “Carrie,” “Misery,” and “The Shining” to name just a couple.

As far as I’m concerned, spooky season has begun.

WILKES-BARRE TWP. — Diane McGee, Times Leader Media Group advertising director, said the Times Leader is a leader in hosting job fairs for Northeast Pennsylvania.

Certainly being released at the most appropriate time of year, “Him” is a psychological horror-sports film of sorts starring Marlon Wayans (“White Chicks,” “Scary Movie”) as Isaiah White, a charismatic football legend teasing retirement. His franchise is scouting out a possible quarterback replacement, Cameron Wade, a wide-eyed new talent in the league.

OLD FORGE — With a King Tut coffin and hieroglyphic mural designs, Black Earth Magical Cafe is like being inside a pharaoh’s home — or final resting place. Paintings on the wall depict dogs as pharaohs, just some of the Egyptian-themed restaurant and sanctuary’s decorations.

OLD FORGE — With a King Tut coffin and hieroglyphic mural designs, Black Earth Magical Cafe is like being inside a pharaoh’s home — or final resting place. Paintings on the wall depict dogs as pharaohs, just some of the Egyptian-themed restaurant and sanctuary’s decorations.

HONESDALE — The Wayne County Farmers Market kicks off its 50th anniversary season on Saturday, May 24, marking half a century of connecting local growers, bakers, and artisans with the community.

DICKSON CITY — For spice lovers and chicken lovers alike, there’s a new HOT spot opening in Dickson City. The vibrant air of the casual dining restaurant smelled like pickles and good times — or good brine I should say!

CLARKS SUMMIT — Rose Brutico Fazio has owned Abbiocco for almost nine years and now ownership is shifting to Andrea Araujo, but don’t worry — the food, values and atmosphere of the restaurant will continue on.

SCRANTON — Hardcore for Husvar is a benefit concert taking place at St. Mary’s Center over Memorial Day Weekend to honor the life of NEPA-native Neil Husvar as well as raise funds for Suicide Prevention.

STROUDSBURG — The Sherman Theater announced that Wheatus, the band behind the iconic global hit “Teenage Dirtbag,” will take the stage on Friday, May 23, with special guest MC Lars and Good Stuff.

STROUDSBURG - Emo and pop-punk icons Mayday Parade hit the road in 2025 to celebrate their incredible two-decade career with the “Three Cheers for 20 Years” Tour, stopping at the Sherman Theater on Friday, May 24.

STROUDSBURG — Rochester-based indie trio, Joywave brings their “Here To Perform… Spring 2025 Tour” to the Sherman Theater on May 22, 2025.

WILKES-BARRE – The Vindys are set open for Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo at their F.M. Kirby Center show on Tuesday, May 20, at 7:30 p.m.