Film Theory/History
Downstairs Film Review 
"Downstairs" proves that silent star John Gilbert had the ability to adjust to the new sound medium and the cynical zeitgeist of Depression-era America. A conniving chauffeur profits by exploiting women both financially and sexually in this 1932 film.
Drama Movies Column - News and Reviews 11
It's a film lover's dream in the coming weeks as the Venice Film Festival, the Telluride Film Festival, The Toronto International Film Festival, and the San Sebastian Film Festival showcase the best in world cinema.
Drama Movies Column - News and Reviews 13
What is the definition of cinema? Can serious dramatic films survive in the age of Marvel and Disney?
Drama Movies Column - News and Reviews 2
I discuss upcoming films from directors Kasi Lemmons and Dee Rees. Also, a change to the Drama Movies site in 2019.
Drama Movies Column - News and Reviews 4
Because of the latest controversy surrounding the telecast of the Oscars on February 24th, I thought a few words of wisdom from the Academy's first president were in order.
Drama Movies Column - News and Reviews 7
Do you want to watch a film written by a computer? Would you care? This week's column offers some thoughts on the use of artificial intelligence in the film industry. I also review Dorian Bond's memoir "Me and Mr. Welles".
Drama Movies Column - News and Reviews 8
This column takes a look at four upcoming film projects; two original films being shopped at the Cannes Film Festival and two remakes of American classics.
Drama Movies Newsletter 1/7/17
This week's newsletter contains additional info about actor Stellan Skarsgard and his film "In Order of Disappearance". I also preview the 2017 Golden Globe Awards.
Film Music - Mortar or Frosting? Part One
How does a music soundtrack add or detract from the success of a film? I examine six films, from different genres and time periods, to answer this question.
Film Music - Mortar or Frosting? Part Two
How does a music soundtrack add or detract from the success of a film? I examine six films, from different genres and time periods, to answer this question.
Haunted Screens - German Expressionism in Film
German Expressionist films, produced between 1913 and 1933, influenced American film noir and continue to inspire filmmakers, including Tim Burton and Ridley Scott. I attended a museum exhibit that displayed set designs and production stills from groundbreaking features such as "Metropolis".
Medium Cool Film Review
Haskell Wexler was voted one of the most influential cinematographers in American film. His 1969 directorial debut, "Medium Cool", is a prescient exploration of politics, violence, and the deleterious effects of a post-literate culture on democracy.
Medium Cool Film Review
Haskell Wexler was voted one of the most influential cinematographers in American film. His 1969 directorial debut, "Medium Cool", is a prescient exploration of politics, violence, and the deleterious effects of a post-literate culture on democracy.
My First Time in Hollywood Book Review
In 1909, Hollywood was a dusty village surrounded by orange groves. Then the movie folk arrived. "My First Time in Hollywood" presents 42 of Hollywood's pioneers and their role in creating a town and an art form.
Reel Injun Film Review
Canadian filmmaker Neil Diamond is your guide for "Reel Injun: On the Trail of the Hollywood Indian". Diamond travels the United States interviewing actors, critics, activists, and filmmakers to discover the history of Native Americans on film.
The Art of Camera Movement in Film
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, television personalities are stuck at home in front of their computer screens while broadcasting. Watching the parade of talking heads has led me to a new appreciation of the art of camera movement.
Three Capsule Film Reviews
Reviews of "Janis: Little Girl Blue", "Stealing Charlie Chaplin", and "Blade Runner 2049".
Thunderheart and The Activist Film Review
"Thunderheart" and "The Activist" are political thrillers that also comment on the stereotyped view of the American Indian in Hollywood films.
Top 10 Movie Songs - Vocal
These songs are performed during the film or featured on the soundtrack. See if my eclectic mix of favorites matches some of your own.
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