Genteel Apocalypse: The Quiet Earth
A view of life after humanity from New Zealand devoid of zombies, gangs and nihilism.
Phil Tippett’s Magnum Opus: Mad God
A full review of one of my favorite films from last year, whose website describes it as, “a fully practical stop-motion film set in a Miltonesque world of monsters, mad scientists, and war pigs.”
Ghosts in the Machine: Charlie Shackleton's Afterlight Project
Speculating on the existential implications of this rare and precious appropriated footage piece
Au Revoir, Nightingale (For Now)
A partial sendoff for a Chicago neighborhood screening space ending its run and the magic of makeshift moviehouses
Speaking of Revolution & The Disease of the Oyster: Pump Up The Volume
The most inspiring and politically responsible of all teen movies is an abashed and hopeful celebration of 60's radicalism and the 1st amendment.
How to Make a Name in Blogging, or, A Case Study in Retroactive Virtue Signaling
A lesson in Missing the Mark - using ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ as a template.
What’s Wrong With the Street, Or, Why I Can’t Quit Falling Down
Why can't we give up on movies that peddle cheap wish fulfillments? And is Joel Schumacher's white rage opus really that disposable?
On Problematic Standup: Eddie Murphy: Raw and Dice Rules (Part 2 of 2)
Two of the biggest theatrically released stand-up concert films from their era and what their differences in style, energy, point of view and taste have to teach us about separating art from exploitation
On Problematic Standup: Eddie Murphy: Raw and Dice Rules (Part 1 of 2)
Two of the biggest theatrically released stand-up concert films from their era and what their differences in style, energy, point of view and taste have to teach us about separating art from exploitation
Return of the Repressed: Revived Treasures of 2021
Three standout restorations from last year, distinguished by controversial, anti-establishment attitudes and new, diverse viewpoints.
Identity Crisis: Studio Logos and the Evolution of Pre-Title Branding
A look into the ever more egregious and excessive nature of studio and distributor logos before features, with some more esoteric favorites highlighted.
Austen Translation: Emma & Clueless
Amy Heckerling's Clueless as a more enjoyable and successful adaption of Jane Austen's classic tale of self-discovery than Miramax's straight translation.
Emerald Isle Jewel : Maeve
A look at this landmark Irish film and its feminist perspective on the Northern Ireland Conflict
Chaplin’s Big Moment
The revelatory finale of City Lights as a radical blueprint for new ways of seeing others.
The Greatest Sports Movie Ever Made?
The immersive, anti-sentimental Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait - a meditative glance at the intense inner world of an elite athlete in action.
Short Film Crash Course
For FK's 20th post, 20 recommendations for short films, an underexposed category of filmmaking. Most titles are linked within.
Meat, Murder and Ethics: Motel Hell
Looking closer into this smart satire of sunny American values and food production in the Grand Guignol tradition.
Heroic Love: Professor Marston and the Wonder Women
For Valentine's Day, a deep dive into this sexy and romantic origin story, its kicks servicing not just the libido, but also one's brain, heart and social conscience
Once Upon A Time In Wakaliwood: Ugandan Communal Cinema
A Hollywood-style DIY film movement, operating out of the slums and ghettos of Uganda, forged from spare parts and repurposed action renditions, mesmerizing audiences in its tenth year of production
What To Do About Bond?
A look into the emotional continuity in the most recent rendering of James Bond