How do the “two Ralphies” of “A Christmas Story” create a perfect balance?
"A Christmas Story" is told by Ralphie, his adult self narrating the on-screen actions of his child self. The two Ralphies working in tandem build a wonderful chemistry for the film,…
Of all the successful components in “Pulp Fiction,” why is dialogue the most important?
The dialogue of "Pulp Fiction" is remarkably original and the strongest aspect of a film that is wonderfully-constructed in every way.
How did “Toy Story” grow out of a planned sequel to Lasseter’s “Tin Toy” short?
"Toy Story" is a project that spawned out of a sequel to "Tin Toy," an Academy Award-winning short film by John Lasseter that was one of Pixar's earliest CGI creations.
Is a James Bond film really only as good as its villain?
The phrase "A James Bond film is only as good as its villain" is frequently heard, but is it true?
Is there a male counterpart to the “femme fatale” of film noir?
Gender stereotypes in the film-noir genre leaves little room for a counterpart to the "femme fatale" character archetype.
Can film noir be funny?
Film noir relies on mood, so cutting the tension with comedy is a dangerous strategy.
Did Classic Hollywood films feature characters we would call “trans” today?
Movies and television shows are increasingly exploring the world of trans characters, but how far back can we find trans characters on the big screen?
How does Bond’s behavior in “Dr. No” reflect 1960s Cold War paranoia?
"Dr. No" reflected American concerns during the Cold War, and introduced the Bond character as someone capable of handling the most relevant concerns of the time.
How is “Taxi Driver” a character study of man versus city?
"Taxi Driver" uses New York City as a character and antagonist to Travis Bickle, who believes he has a calling to clean up the city's "scum."
What has kept “Spectre” and Blofeld out of Bond films over the past 40 years?
SPECTRE and Blofeld were common enemies of James Bond in the 1960s and 1970s, but haven't been mentioned in Bond films for decades. Now, with "Spectre," they make their…
How do the opening and title screens of “Se7en” establish the film’s tone and themes?
"Se7en" introduces the tone and characters of its story through poignant exposition and a legendary title sequence.
What happened at the end of “Se7en”? How were wrath and envy fulfilled?
At the end of "Se7en," killer John Doe forces Mills and Somerset out into the desert for a final twist revelation that completes his master crime.