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 …
Category: Film
May 02 2024
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 …
May 01 2024
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. …
Apr 29 2024
The Dreamlike Realm of “Meshes of the Afternoon” by Maya Deren
Maya Deren’s “Meshes of the Afternoon” is a surreal and haunting short film that has become a classic of avant-garde cinema. Through its dreamlike imagery and symbolic storytelling, the film explores themes of identity, memory, and the subconscious mind. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the film’s unique style and meaning. Born …
Apr 27 2024
Theo Angelopoulos: A Master of Greek Cinema
Theo Angelopoulos, an esteemed Greek filmmaker, holds a prominent position in the world of cinema and has left an indelible mark on the industry with his thought-provoking and visually captivating films. Born in Athens on this day April 27, 1935, Angelopoulos began his journey into the world of storytelling by studying law before transitioning into …
Apr 24 2024
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 …
Apr 18 2024
Hayley Mills: Angelic Icon of the 60s and Beyond
Actress Hayley Mills was born on this day, April 18, 1946, in London, England. Her child acting career began with her debut performance in the 1959 crime drama Tiger Bay, for which she won the “BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer.” A year later she starred in the Disney classic Pollyanna (1960), and quickly became one of …
Apr 17 2024
Soviet Film Wednesday: Enchanted Desna
Enchanted Desna is a film that gives us insight into the mind of Aleksandr Dovzhenko as a child, growing up by the Desna river. Directed by Yuliya Solntseva, the film is an “autobiographical film story” by her husband, Aleksandr Dovzhenko. Both thought-provoking and beautiful, the film elicits memories and introspection from its viewers. For instance, …
Apr 14 2024
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 …
Apr 10 2024
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 three 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 …