Film
French Noir and Flying Swordsmen
By David Wilentz and David N. MeyerIn the view of first-time director Gela Babluani, a life is not worth much—it can be bought or sold on a whim. Sometimes that whim originates with the owner of said life, sometimes it arrives on the wings of market forces. Either way, when the bill comes due, it’s instant karma time.
Bringing up Baby Beelzebub
By Tessa DeCarloThe original Omen, which debuted in 1976, is often discussed as one panel in a triptych of classic horror films about demonic youngsters, the other two being the 1968 Rosemary’s Baby and The Exorcist, released in 1973.
The Death of the Subject
By Nora Griffin“The only language that can be called ‘language’ without qualification is the language of natural reality.” —Pasolini
DVD Culture
July/August 2006
By David Wilentz and David N. MeyerDirector Maurice Paliat, with his bear-like frame, passive-aggressive mumbly voice and glittery impassive eyes, makes for a convincing Bad Daddy. Few of those who work with him once come back for more.
In Conversation
Uncontrolled Cinema: Albert Maysles
By Williams ColeAlong with his late brother David, Albert Maysles is one of the most important figures in American documentary credited with being one of the founders of what is variously called “Direct Cinema” or “Cinema Verite.”
Docs In Sight
Summer 2006
By Williams ColeNo one ever said that the New York Times was cutting edge regarding trends (in fact it’s practical wisdom that if a cultural trend is written about in the Times, it’s over).
In Conversation
Bruce McClure with Brian Frye
Bruce McClure doesn’t make films, he performs them. Most movies are frozen on celluloid or written on videotape.
Magic & Images/ Images & Magic
By David Levi StraussThis was an opening paper for a conference at Princeton University, “Magic and the American Avant-Garde Cinema.”
