More than 24 years ago, Sir Ridley Scott created a remarkable historical epic with his film, Gladiator. Released in 2000, it became the second highest-grossing movie of that year, earning nearly $500 million worldwide, just behind Mission: Impossible II. The… Continue Reading →
In the pop-culture realm, gastropods seem to be en vogue. First, Junji Ito transformed ordinary humans into strange snail-like creatures through a wicked curse in Uzumaki and now, an IFC Films release is receiving a lot of publicity as word-of-mouth… Continue Reading →
Japan understands Mother Nature. If you’ve ever watched an anime by Hayao Miyazaki, you’d easily recognize that being one with your environment is something very important within Japanese culture. Taking ownership in not ruining your environment is a topic that… Continue Reading →
Per Matt Alexander Payne is a filmmaker who just gets it. He seemingly understands every element of the industry (or at least he has the self-awareness to hire the very best employees to make up the difference). That’s high praise… Continue Reading →
Per Matt Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer lit up the Music City Film Critics’ Association 2023 Film Awards with seven wins in total, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Supporting Actor, which is an all-time record for the Association!
I must confess my fondness for well-crafted Westerns. Despite my virtual film library being primarily dominated by sci-fi and horror, classic and contemporary Westerns have captured my admiration. Whether it’s timeless gems like Gunfight at the O.K. Corral or Guns… Continue Reading →
Per Matt Despite its worldwide success throughout the years, Studio Ghibli still feels like it’s got an unknown presence stateside. But not to anime fans! Merely mention Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle or Princess Mononoke and you’re likely to get… Continue Reading →
Per Matt For comedy fans of a certain age, The Maestro might refer to a character fond of quick-acting balms who conducts the Policeman’s Benevolent Association Orchestra, but Bradley Cooper had a different story in mind for the title. Premiering… Continue Reading →
Per Matt There’s obvious symbolism in play when depicting a romantic relationship alongside volcanos. For one thing, these ruptures of Earth’s crust are some of the most powerful and unpredictable forces of nature on the whole planet. Same with relationships…. Continue Reading →
With the Oscars coming up this weekend, I thought it would be fun to write up my choices for each of the award-winning categories. The Music City Film Critics’ Association, of which I am a member, conducted their award nods… Continue Reading →