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.
15 years after the abuse scandal broke, will “Spotlight” impact the Catholic Church’s public image?
"Spotlight" (2015) retells the true story about the Pulitzer Prize-winning team of journalists that exposed the highly publicized sex scandal and the Church’s controversial response.…
In “Taxi Driver,” what is the role of the “director” motivating Travis’ actions?
Scorsese's cameo as a passenger in Travis' cab represents the moment when the director literally controls his character and plants the seed of violence in his head.
In “Toy Story,” which character changes, and which is steadfast in their resolve?
"Toy Story" employs common narrative style relating to two characters with opposing viewpoints who have to work together. The way it presents them is a bit unique.
How does the first episode of “Flesh and Bone” set up conflict between the old and the new?
"Flesh and Bone" aims for a mix of the familiar dance story with an original angle. The conflict between the old and the new manifests both literally and figuratively in the first episode.
Are Andy’s parents in “Toy Story” divorced, or is his father deceased?
Andy in "Toy Story" doesn't have a father. Unfortunately, contextual evidence gives the impression he's left the family.