Tag: film
Lest We Forget: The Great War and Cinema
This August sees the centenary of the First World War. This tragic conflict destroyed nations, took millions of lives, and changed the map of the world. Many films have been made about this war, and this seems a suitable time to examine some of them. I normally seek out lesser-known films for my posts; but…
Predestination: Temporal Loops and Narrative Hoops
Last night I was fortunate enough to attend the Australian red-carpet premiere of the Spierig brothers’ new science fiction film, Predestination, as part of the opening night celebrations at the Melbourne International Film Festival. Held at the Melbourne Arts Centre, the night commenced with a typically charismatic introduction by MIFF patron, Geoffrey Rush, and ended…
Lucy and Boyhood: The Evolution of Narrative Integration
Tom Gunning has forgotten about the evolution of early cinema than anyone I know. So let’s consult him. Gunning has argued that the earliest form of cinema was one of “attraction.” The audience watched new and interesting pictures in much the same way that carnival crowds would gape at the bearded lady. Had it remained…
Movies & Racism: 5 Films That Should be Relegated to Museums
Racism has been around since day one – and in cinema almost as long. Some racist films, such as Gone With the Wind (1939), are still shown on television, while others, like The Birth of a Nation (1915) are harder to find. The question I want to ask is: Should these flicks be relegated to…
Wish I Was Here: Kickstarting Zach Braff
Years from now, it is entirely likely that the cinematic significance of Zach Braff’s second feature film, Wish I Was Here, will be based primarily on the manner in which it was funded. Unable to secure funding via traditional means, Braff launched a Kickstarter campaign and raised enough money in 48 hours to move ahead…