Category: Film

Soviet Film Wednesday: Birthnight

In Birthnight, Night visits young Tima, a boy who sleeps with the light on because he is afraid of the dark, and she invites him to her nighttime birthday party in the woods. If the story doesn’t sound intriguing enough, the eccentric synth music of Eduard Artemyev is sure to transport you to another world, …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: Russian Sugar Ad

Here’s a little treat for this Wednesday: a jam ad created for Russian Sugar directed by Yuri Norstein. It was one of a group of Russian Sugar commercials made by Norstein between 1994 and 1995 that used cutouts and drawings for the animations (a bit past the Soviet era but still delightful and created by …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: Tenderness

Full of the vibrant energy of the outdoors and whimsical romance, Tenderness (Нежность, Nezhnost) was director Elyer Ishmukhamedov’s first major film, made in 1966-1967, and set in summertime in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. At its release, the film won awards at the International Week Of Asian Film Festival in Frankfort and at the Locarno Film Festival. Tenderness was …

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From Beauty and the Beast to Orpheus: The Cinematic Magic of Jean Cocteau

Step into the enchanting world of Jean Cocteau, born on this day July 5, 1889 in Maisons-Laffitte, France, a visionary filmmaker who effortlessly blended reality and fantasy on the silver screen. From his iconic adaptation of Beauty and the Beast to the mesmerizing journey of Orpheus, Cocteau’s cinematic magic continues to captivate audiences to this …

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Celebrate Independence Day with These Classic American Films

Step back in time this 4th of July with a selection of timeless classics that capture the essence of American culture and patriotism. These films from the golden age of Hollywood offer a nostalgic glimpse into family traditions and historical events that have shaped the American spirit. Grab some popcorn, gather your loved ones, and …

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Chantal Akerman’s Cinematic Vision: A Look into Her Unique Style

Chantal Akerman was a trailblazing filmmaker whose unique cinematic vision challenged traditional storytelling and captivated audiences with its raw honesty and intimacy. Known for her personal and experimental style, Akerman’s films explored themes of gender, identity, and cultural displacement. Her legacy continues to influence modern filmmakers and audiences alike, inspiring a new generation of artists …

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A Look Back at Henry Fonda’s Most Celebrated Movie Roles

Born on this day May 16, 1905 in Grand Island, Nebraska, Henry Fonda is one of the most celebrated actors in Hollywood history, known for his incredible range and ability to bring complex characters to life on the big screen. Over the course of his illustrious career, Fonda starred in countless films, earning critical acclaim …

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The Color of Pomegranates: A Masterpiece of Surrealism and Poetry in Film

The Color of Pomegranates is a film that defies the traditional norms of cinema. It’s a masterpiece of surrealism and poetry that transports the viewer to a world of visual and emotional wonder. Directed by Sergei Parajanov, this film is a unique exploration of the life and work of Armenian poet Sayat-Nova. The Color of …

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4 Fun Facts About R2-D2 for May the 4th

R2-D2 is one of the most beloved characters in the Star Wars franchise, known for his spunky personality and unwavering loyalty to his friends. Despite his small size, this astromech droid has played a crucial role in many of the series’ most iconic moments. Here are some fascinating facts about R2-D2 that every Star Wars …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: Walking the Streets of Moscow

Walking the Streets of Moscow (Я шагаю по Москве, Ya shagayu po Moskve) is a lighthearted look at everyday city life in Moscow for youth in the ’60s. We see an opening scene in the airport, city sidewalks in the rain, taxi rides through the streets, evening traffic flows, and a concert in Gorky park. …

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