Why is “Empire” perfect for drinking games?
The predictable unpredictability of "Empire" makes for some interesting drinking games.
How does the thematic content of “Cabaret” maintain the film’s cultural relevance today?
"Cabaret" remains relevant today because of its great performances and ever-excellent Bob Fosse direction and choreography, but also because of the cultural messages that still reflect…
What is the significance of the chimp in “Sunset Boulevard”?
The chimpanzee in "Sunset Boulevard" is symbolic of Joe Gillis' fate. His interactions with Norma Desmond turn him into Norma's chimp, eventually leading to his own similar fate.
Why does Joe try to leave Norma’s house at the end of “Sunset Boulevard”?
Joe's motivation for leaving Norma's house at the end of "Sunset Boulevard" can be unclear, but seems to stem from a realization that his life situations are less than perfect,…
How does the 2004 remake of “The Stepford Wives” differ from the 1975 film? Why was it such a flop?
The 2004 remake of "The Stepford Wives" is a spoof of the 1975 film that lampoons feminists as much as the radical right. Best read as camp, the film fails to achieve any coherent social…
Why does Bruce the Shark’s gender matter in “Jaws”?
Questioning the gender of the shark in "Jaws" helps us understand the film's statements on masculinity. Ultimately, the male-driven conflict ends with an affirmation of the middle…
How does “International Assassin” add to the mystery of “The Leftovers” world?
"International Assassin," the eighth episode of "The Leftovers" second season, takes a dramatic turn into new territory and raises questions about logic, faith, and identity…
How does “Jeanne Dielman, 23 quai du Commerce” benefit from its over 3 hour runtime?
The power of "Jeanne Dielman" lies in the way its long, monotonous scenes condition us to the particulars of her day. The film's almost oppressively long runtime exposes us to the…
Why can “Jeanne Dielman” translate into an array of ideological frameworks?
The best films realize that the things we see and the things we don’t see are equally valuable. "Jeanne Dielman" is over three hours of seeing almost nothing except the details that…
Why was “Fantasia” an artistic gamble for Walt Disney?
"Fantasia" is considered one of the great animated films of all time, yet it failed upon its initial release. The material and style were ahead of its time.
How does “Sunset Boulevard” ironically reference “Queen Kelly”?
The clever insertion of "Queen Kelly" into "Sunset Boulevard" stands as the most memorable bit of the film’s audacious ability to peer beyond the fantasies of Hollywood.
Why Was “Sunset Boulevard” Shot in Black and White When Color Was An Option?
Shooting "Sunset Boulevard" as a black and white picture was a necessary choice in delivering the noir material in the most holistically effective way.