As of this writing, we are one week from the Academy releasing its shortlists for next year's Oscars. Among the most anticipated categories getting the semifinal news is International Feature, where 88 films were deemed eligible to vie for the prize (of 92 total submissions; apologies to Cuba, Hong Kong, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan). By the … Continue reading Back Row Thoughts – International Co-operation
The writing has been on the wall for quite a while now. Ever since Phase Four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe began, the onslaught of diminishing returns has brought us to this inflection point. There have been a couple of bright spots, mostly from fan service films that served as closure for beloved characters that … Continue reading RIP MCU – The Marvels
Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho has, in his relatively short career, established an international reputation as a man who can bend genre to his whim. His highly successful output thus far has blended sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and suspense - oftentimes within the same piece of work - but he always grounds his films in the reality … Continue reading The Sweet Smell of Excess – Parasite
I Actually Paid To See This 