The fictionalization of Chilean political campaign becomes meta self-commentary Photos courtesy of Sony Pictures At first glance, it’s easy to dismiss No as a member of a long line of platitudinous films dramatizing social and political movements of the 20th century. Films like Gandhi and Milk too often reduce their complex political atmospheres to simplistically motivated acts of martyrdom and common-sense morality, and mistake condescension for sympathy. Yes, No is one of those films. No, it should not be dismissed, at least not for that. In 1988, Chilean dictator Augustus Pinochet caved to global political pressure and held a plebiscite.…
Continue readingRarely do I call a movie unwatchable, but for Foodfight I will make an exception. I’ve racked my brains, but can’t find a way to explain Foodfight. I mean I can give you a synopsis: it’s an animated film of…
Continue readingThis week, editors David Dyck, Alison Roach, Will Ross, and Bryan Scott discuss the SFSS election results and SPORTS! With special guests Clay J. Gray and Adam Ovenell-Carter.
Continue readingCosmic journeys through classic cinema Movies set in the wild black yonder of space are a rare thing. Good ones are even rarer. But the sci-fi sub-genre’s traditional association with grindhouse cin- emas and multi-part epic franchises makes marathons a…
Continue readingThe Oscars were almost over when their insidiousness reached its peak. First lady Michelle Obama was brought in to present best picture, delivered some platitudes about how these films prove “love can endure against all odds” etc., and handed the…
Continue readingSoderbergh’s latest turns film conventions inside out Photo courtesy of Di Bonaventura Pictures Whether or not it’s Steven Soderbergh’s final theatrical feature, Side Effects may be his most quintessential work, the one best suited for explaining his ethos to a…
Continue readingPhotos by David Yanchick If your film takes place in a medieval fantasy world and features shotguns, record players, and defibrillators, don’t expect your audience to take it seriously, and for heaven’s sakes, don’t take it seriously yourself. Wanting it…
Continue readingEditors David Dyck, Will Ross, and Daryn Wright discuss the end of the Waldorf and chit chat about Tiki bars, Game Boys, and possible podcast subjects.
Continue readingThe reaction to Zero Dark Thirty has been plagued with unfounded accusations Were you not already embroiled in the controversy surrounding Zero Dark Thirty, a political thriller based on the search for and assassination of Osama bin Laden, you may…
Continue readingSpielberg's latest feature succeeds as more than a biopic Even Steven Spielberg’s detractors agree on this much: his movies make people feel good. But those critics insist that he is too eager to please; an empty moralizer; a charlatan. To…
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