How did “The 39 Steps” Help Create the Hitchcock Format?
"The 39 Steps" is an early look at what became Hitchcock's trademark style, and the birth of an intelligent cinematic format.
What Made “Dracula” an Influential Hollywood Horror Film?
Karl Freund, the cinematographer on "Dracula," was from the Expressionist camp and largely responsible for many of the components that have made the film legend.
Since “M,” How has the Serial Killer Figure Evolved in Film and TV?
"M" questions society as a whole and the way we view our roles within it, using a child killer as its catalyst.
How does “M” use sound and music?
Fritz Lang's "M" pioneers the use of the cinematic leitmotif and uses off-screen sound to signal danger beyond the frame.
How does “Jane the Virgin” present a nuanced view of sexuality?
The CW's "Jane the Virgin" presents a nuanced vision of sex and sexuality.
What is the significance of Helen Ramirez in “High Noon”?
In "High Noon", the character Helen Ramirez complicates depictions of gender and race in Western films.
Does “In a Lonely Place” adhere to or challenge traditional gender roles?
In Nicholas Ray's "In a Lonely Place", the lead characters both conform to and push against traditional gender roles.
In “Room,” how did Brie Larson create the character of Ma?
Brie Larson's performance in "Room" creates the warmth at the center of the film. Larson prepared for the role with research and developed her relationship with her child actor co-star.
How does “Spotlight” pay tribute to longform journalism?
"Spotlight" draws attention to the important service that long, investigative journalism provides to society.
How did Will Smith alter the personality of Dr. Bennett Omalu for “Concussion”?
Will Smith and "Concussion" director Peter Landesman worked to dial down the bright and jovial personality of Dr. Bennett Omalu for dramatic purposes in the film.
Screenosophy: What ethical theories are reflected in “The Big Short”?
The Big Short tells the story of the tension between our moral views and our typical thinking about capitalism; its characters live out the messiness that results from this tension. Ethical egoism…
The One to Watch For A Comedy Legacy: “The Office (UK)” S1E1 – “Downsize”
Ricky Gervais' legacy in "The Office" can be felt all over comedy today. The show's humor and philosophy represented a fundamental shift in the history of the television…