Why is Phyllis in “Double Indemnity” hailed as one of cinema’s greatest femme fatales?
Barbara Stanwyck's Phyllis in "Double Indemnity" is a fantastic example of the femme fatale in film noir.
What is the song heard through the window during the climax of “Double Indemnity”?
The song playing during the climax of "Double Indemnity" is more poignant than it seems, and holds more weight than simple background music wafting in through the window.
What does it mean to call a woman a “Stepford Wife”?
The term "Stepford Wives" is at its core a term for the caricature of a submissive, obedient and mindless housewife.
How did “The Maltese Falcon” help craft the noir film genre?
"The Maltese Falcon" is typically regarded as the first film noir. Though it doesn't contain all the elements that would eventually work to define the genre, it paved the way for the…
Does Mapes feel the “Truth” controversy would have played out differently in today’s media landscape?
In the environment of Twitter, social media, and a balanced blogosphere, would the events depicted in "Truth" have become such a frenzy?
Does Dan Rather think “Truth” is true? What do Dan Rather & Mary Mapes say “Truth” is really about?
Dan Rather and Mary Mapes comment on the accuracy of "Truth" as it relates to their personal memories of the Killian Documents Controversy and their forced departure from CBS News.
How do Rather and Mapes view “Truth” as an examination of how news has evolved over the last decade?
Dan Rather and Mary Mapes give their input on "Truth" and the shift in news media over the last 11 years.
How does “Rosemary’s Baby” create realistic psychological terror?
The strength of "Rosemary's Baby" lives in its believability, Mia Farrow's excellent performance, and Roman Polanski's strong direction of the film.
Why did “Night of the Living Dead” spark controversy after its release?
"Night of the Living Dead" told an unconventional story using heavy gore, shocking violence, and an African American as the lead.
How did “Night of the Living Dead” create the idea of the zombie as it’s known today?
Though zombies existed in many forms for ages, Romero's "Night of the Living Dead" created the zombie as we know it today - a reanimated dead body focused on cannibalism.
In the “Saw” franchise, what are the philosophy and motivations behind Jigsaw’s actions?
Jigsaw is an intelligent, educated villain who doesn't kill by his own hand, but sets up elaborate traps that test the will to live of their victims.
What tropes and themes did “Halloween” help introduce to the horror genre?
"Halloween" is a staple in the horror/slasher genre and called to attention a number of themes and tropes now considered staples in the genre.