Category: Film

Celebrating Pollyanna: A Timeless Classic Released on May 19, 1960

Get ready to take a delightful trip down memory lane as we celebrate the enchanting film Pollyanna, which graced the silver screen on May 19, 1960. Starring the talented Hayley Mills as the eternally optimistic orphan, this Disney classic has captured hearts for over six decades! In the quaint town of Harrington, Pollyanna, the spirited …

Continue reading

Chishū Ryū: A Master in Japanese Cinema and the Art of Emotional Storytelling

Chishū Ryū (1904-1993) was a legendary Japanese actor who played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Japanese cinema. His career spanned over six decades, during which he appeared in over 160 films. Ryū’s work with director Yasujirō Ozu made him a prominent figure in the world of cinema, and his unique acting style …

Continue reading

Soviet Film Wednesday: The Ascent

The Ascent, a Soviet film released in 1977, is a remarkable and powerful war drama that stands as a testament to the exceptional talent of its director, Larisa Shepitko. The film, which is an adaptation of the novel Sotnikov by Vasil Bykov, masterfully explores themes of sacrifice, betrayal, and the moral complexities of war. Set …

Continue reading

5 Must-Watch Satyajit Ray Films That Define Indian Cinema

Born on this day May 2, 1921, Satyajit Ray is considered one of the greatest filmmakers in Indian cinema history. His films are known for their realism, humanism, and attention to detail. From his debut film, Pather Panchali, to his later works like Charulata, Ray’s movies have heavily influenced Indian cinema. Here is a list …

Continue reading

Soviet Film Wednesday: Enchanted Desna

In the world of cinema, few films capture the essence of childhood as beautifully as Enchanted Desna (Зачарована Десна). Directed by Yuliya Solntseva in 1964, this Soviet fantasy drama is not just a film; it’s a heartfelt journey into the whimsical memories of Oleksandr Dovzhenko, a celebrated Ukrainian writer and cinematographer. His autobiographical story unfolds …

Continue reading

Step into the Dreamlike Realm of “Meshes of the Afternoon”

Born on this day April 29 (N.S. May 12), 1917 in Kyiv, Ukraine, Maya Deren was an American experimental filmmaker and one of the most important figures in the history of avant-garde cinema. Maya Deren’s 1943 short film, Meshes of the Afternoon, invites viewers to traverse this ethereal landscape, where reality blurs with the subconscious. The …

Continue reading

Cliff Richard & The Shadows: A Summer Holiday to Remember!

On April 28, 1963, music history was made as Cliff Richard and The Shadows captured the #1 spot on the UK albums chart for an astonishing 14 weeks with the soundtrack to the movie Summer Holiday. This achievement was not just a testament to their talent but also a significant moment in the British music …

Continue reading

Soviet Film Wednesday: A Rainy Story

Inspired after seeing this on Soviet Visuals and Folklore Film Fest‘s #SovietFilmWednesday, this was the first Soviet film I shared a little over four years ago, and it is still one of my favorites. What can I say, I love rain and cats, and the illustrations are beautiful, so this seemed like the perfect starting place for …

Continue reading

From Darling to Doctor Zhivago: The Best Julie Christie Films

Born on this day April 14, 1940 in Chabua, India, Julie Christie is a legendary actress whose career spans over six decades. Her performances have captivated audiences and earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress. From her breakthrough role in Darling to her iconic turn in Doctor Zhivago, Christie’s films are …

Continue reading

Soviet Film Wednesday: The Snow Queen

The Snow Queen, a 1957 film directed by Lev Atamanov, is a celebrated cinematic gem in the realm of animated cinema. This Russian animation feature, produced by Soyuzmultfilm, is based on the fairy tale of the same name by renowned Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. The film remains a classic example of Atamanov’s brilliant storytelling …

Continue reading