Jeffrey Liao

USG Movie Review: ‘Boyhood’ (2014)

“‘Boyhood’ is an impressive cinematic feat, displaying nuance and restraint in its portrayal of the individuality of Mason Jr.’s life yet also the universality of the obstacles he undergoes — the search for meaning, identity, and belonging in the world. The film offers no grand climax or resolution. It simply moves with clarity and confidence ... ” The Prospect contributing writer Jeffrey Liao reviews the 2014 film “Boyhood.”

“‘Boyhood’ is an impressive cinematic feat, displaying nuance and restraint in its portrayal of the individuality of Mason Jr.’s life yet also the universality of the obstacles he undergoes — the search for meaning, identity, and belonging in the world. The film offers no grand climax or resolution. It simply moves with clarity and confidence ... ” The Prospect contributing writer Jeffrey Liao reviews the 2014 film “Boyhood.” 

Diving into contemporary poetry: 5 recommendations

Once unsatisfied by previous encounters with poetry from bygone eras, Prospect contributing writer Jeffrey Liao recommends five collections by contemporary poets for anyone looking to venture into the realm of poetry.

Once unsatisfied by previous encounters with poetry from bygone eras, Prospect contributing writer Jeffrey Liao recommends five collections by contemporary poets for anyone looking to venture into the realm of poetry.

Chinatown Diptych: The Origins of a Writer

Growing up, writing was my haven. My friends teased me for carrying a marble notebook wherever I went, pages brimming with mediocre poems my 12-year-old mind thought Shakespearean. Words, I discovered, have the power to forge rivers, oceans, mountains. They immortalize the rise and fall of civilizations, etch our names in rock and dust.