When most people think of The Love Witch (2016), the first things that come to mind are visual. They might remember a colorful costume or a stunning set that were designed by the film’s writer-director-producer-editor-songwriter/arranger Anna Biller, or an impeccably framed close-up of its unforgettable protagonist, Elaine (perfectly played by Samantha Robinson). But while I… Read more »
Feature Articles
The Exquisite Visuals and Murky Morality of The Conformist (1970)
The Conformist (1970) is a film of visual wonders that takes place in a world of moral horrors. It features some of the most beautiful shots you’ll ever see as well as very dark dramatic situations. But what makes this film so memorable isn’t just the fact that it is visually dazzling or expertly explores… Read more »
The Awards Paradox
Guest post by Dr. Alicia Kozma, Director of IU Cinema. While, conventionally, the beginning of a new year brings resolutions and new beginnings, in Hollywood the new year is the start of the big push towards awards season. “Awards season” is a bit of a misnomer, as it indicates a discrete, bounded segment of time,… Read more »
One More Chorus: Thank You, Establishing Shot
You find salvation in the funniest places sometimes. You spend so much of your life thinking you’ll be chasing one thing that’ll make you feel fulfilled and free only for something else to sprout through the concrete you paved over your own garden long ago. If I had known my own salvation was going to… Read more »
Physical Media Isn’t Dead, It Just Smells Funny: Criterion and Imprint Reviews for December, Kino Lorber Holiday Gift Guide, and Picks of the Year for 2022
Full transparency: all Blu-rays reviewed were provided by Kino Lorber, Fun City Editions, the Criterion Collection, Imprint Films, Arrow Video, 88 Films US, Dekanalog, and Vinegar Syndrome. Well, here we are everyone: at the end of another calendar year for this column and another incredible year for physical media. We saw long-awaited releases, upgrades… Read more »
Physical Media Isn’t Dead, It Just Smells Funny: Kino Lorber, Fun City Editions, and Criterion Blu-ray Reviews for November 2022
Full transparency: all Blu-rays reviewed were provided by Kino Lorber, Fun City Editions, and the Criterion Collection. This month’s cavalcade of carefully curated content is mostly some near-and-dear favorites of mine and a new certified slapper in my arsenal of “dad movies” I’ll be revisiting on many Sunday afternoons to come. From Kino Lorber, we… Read more »