What real-life events influenced the storyline of “The Godfather: Part III”?
"The Godfather: Part III" interweaves a fictional account of two real-life events: the 1978 death of Pope John Paul I and the Papal banking scandal of 1981-1982.
Is the dog scene in “Fruitvale Station” emotionally exploitative?
The decision to add the scene with the dog raises the issue of artistic license in films based off of real life.
How do “Ray Donovan” and “Orange Is the New Black” attract mainstream viewers despite edgy content?
"Ray Donovan" and "Orange Is the New Black" use their seemingly conventional protagonists as Trojan horses to attract audiences into worlds with more diverse themes and…
Why was “Fruitvale Station” shot on Super 16mm?
The decision to use 16mm film in the production of "Fruitvale Station" stems from the artistic preferences of the director, Ryan Coogler.
In “The Silence of the Lambs,” how does Clarice represent the struggle for female empowerment?
In "The Silence of the Lambs," Clarice Starling represents the struggle of female professionals who work in male-dominated fields.
What is so extraordinary about Anthony Hopkins’ performance in “The Silence of the Lambs”?
Despite his lack of screen time, a stunning performance as well as an incredibly thoughtful script delivered Hopkins one of the most impressive Oscars of all time.
How is the love story in “Brooklyn” a metaphor for the immigrant experience?
"Brooklyn" is as much a story about immigration as it is the struggle for love.
After 75 years, what is the cinematic legacy of “The Great Dictator”?
The Great Dictator was astoundingly bold political satire in 1940, and its legacy can be felt at the core of all the films that have followed in its tradition.
What does “De Palma” say about the role of a director?
"De Palma" is as much about the identity of being a director as it is about Brian De Palma.
How does “My Golden Days” compare the act of filmmaking to anthropology?
The Cannes Director's Fortnight, New York Film Festival and London Film Festival selection "My Golden Days" subtly compares filmmaking to anthropological study.
Does the character of Esther in “My Golden Days” perpetuate or interrogate sexist tropes?
While on the surface Esther (Lou Roy-Lecollinet) may seem like a cinematic cliché, she is a deep and substantial character whose deterioration challenges the common trope of the young desirable…
Why does “Anomalisa” use only one voice actor for everyone except Michael and Lisa?
(Spoilers) Tom Noonan voices every single character in "Anomalisa" other than Michael and Lisa, an artistic choice which communicates the protagonist's world view and shapes the…