How does “Bride of Frankenstein” cross genres to add humor and build empathy for the monster?
"Bride of Frankenstein" contains all the spooks and scares of true horror yet, by the film’s conclusion, Pretorius has taken place as the film’s villain over the monster. The monster…
How do Bobby’s love interests in “Five Easy Pieces” help reveal parts of his character?
Bob Rafelson uses "Five Easy Pieces" to make multiple commentaries on Bobby’s disillusioned category of character types from the early 1970s. One means to this end is through…
Why is “Five Easy Pieces” one of the best character studies in film history?
"Five Easy Pieces" minimalist plot captured and depicted the youth alienation prevalent in the unstable middle class life of the early ‘70s.
How have The Marx Brothers, particularly with “A Night at the Opera,” influenced future comedians?
The Marx Brothers employed intelligent, character-driven humor. Such comedic styling tends to have a timelessness to it. It is contested whether "A Night at the Opera" is their best work,…
Is “Microbe and Gasoline” less surreal than Michel Gondry’s other films?
Michel Gondry scales back the surrealism in his latest film, "Microbe and Gasoline."
How much of “Microbe and Gasoline” is an autobiography of Michel Gondry’s childhood?
"Microbe and Gasoline" borrows largely from the life of director Michel Gondry.
When would “Angels With Filthy Souls,” the film within “Home Alone,” have been made?
Could "Angels With Filthy Souls" actually have been made in the era it appears to have been made? Chances are no - it's a throwback film made much closer to modern day.
Why is “The Proposition” a spiritual Western?
John Hillcoat's "The Proposition," set in the Australian Outback, exemplifies the spiritual Western by examining the nature of violence while incorporating elements of the sublime.
How has “Home Alone” endured as a fan favorite over time? Can it continue?
"Home Alone" is one of those films that audiences have been returning to year after year, and that is a true achievement in the oversaturated, generally crummy genre of Christmas movies.
In “The Lion King,” could Simba and Nala be half-siblings?
Given the natural behaviors of lions, Mufasa would likely be the only male lion in his pride, making him father to both Simba and Nala.
What did “Friends” say about ‘90s dating culture? What has changed since then?
"Friends" shaped a generation's views and assumptions on relationships and sex. What messages did it send us about dating culture, and how much is still relevant now?
How does “Elf” transcend “holiday movie” pitfalls and emerge as a balanced film?
"Elf" is the type of Christmas comedy that seems aware of the kind of film it doesn’t want to be, and avoids the traps that turn so many holiday films into boring, overly sappy stories.