From Hype to Reality

As movie fans, we frequently fawn over the latest blockbuster. Drawn by the promise of hot performances and breathtaking visuals, trailers seduce us, charging us with an explosive buzz of excitement. We surrender willingly to the allure of these audiovisual delights, for they promise not just entertainment but an escape from the mundane. Then, expectations form, dancing within our minds, eagerly whispering promises of cinematic joy.

However, our fascination with movies goes beyond mere escapism; blame our brain’s remarkable ability to anticipate and predict outcomes based on past events. Just as we seek comfort in the familiar, we have mastered the art of anticipating certain emotions in the cinematic experience.

This you? No, I’m afraid not. In the words of the mirth maestro Bo Burnham: “If you want love, lower your expectations.” For when they skyrocket to unattainable heights, disappointment lurks in the shadows. Remember the blockbuster that tanked? The twist that wasn’t twisty enough? “Howl! Howl!” Oh, well, can’t be helped.

Call me a Grinch, but I take solace in storing my emotions and approaching events with a clear head. Sure, it means avoiding trailers and postponing the deep dive, but it’s my method of preserving my unique viewing experience. Cinema, as Scorsese put it, has become a theme park ride. As a result, I avoid unrealistic expectations, knowing that true gems are rare. It’s not about dampening the joy but welcoming the delights that even a misfire might bring. In short, I’d rather be surprised than continuously expect cinematic perfection.

Yet, through it all, the magic of movies endures, and we find solace in the fact that even a flop can spark lively discussions and passion-filled rants.

And now the news >>>

• Jessica Chastain faced criticism for wearing a mask to the Oscars, with some accusing her of making a political statement. However, Chastain explained that she wore the mask to protect herself and her castmates, avoiding the risk of getting sick and missing theatrical performances. Despite the backlash, she stayed healthy.

• Helen Mirren has been selected as the recipient of the 37th American Cinematheque Prize, which will be presented to her during a ceremony on November 4th. The American Cinematheque ceremony serves as an annual fundraiser for the nonprofit organization and supports year-round programming at three theatres in California.

⚖️ Brian Singer, the Bohemian Rhapsody director fired amid allegations of sexual assault, is reportedly planning a comeback. He has been pitching industry insiders on three narrative features set in and around Israel, where he has been living. Singer is also working on a self-financed documentary about himself, addressing the allegations and his would-be career resurrection.

▶ Explore the life of an iconic actor in the documentary Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed. The film, directed by Stephen Kijak, delves into Hudson's Hollywood career and hidden homosexuality. Through archival footage and personal testimonies, the documentary pays tribute to Hudson's legacy as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation while questioning the progress made in the industry.

▶ Legendary writer, editor, and publisher Stan Lee will be the focus of a new documentary featuring exclusive interviews, unseen archival footage, and photographs capturing his essence. The documentary offers rare conversations with his loved ones, colleagues, and friends. Marvel has set the release of the Stan Lee documentary on Disney+ on June 16. 

Cliffhanger's Famous Plane Zip-Line Stunt

Cliffhanger (1993), directed by Renny Harlin, features a daring airplane zip-line stunt, now iconic in action film history. This article delves into the behind-the-scenes details of the film's practical work. Read more …

Is It Over For Movie Stars?

A recent study by the National Research Group (NRG) suggests that the future of Hollywood stars is uncertain. The study asked moviegoers to select five actors they would specifically go to the theatre to see, indicating a change in audience preferences. As studios grapple with the financial risks of theatrical releases, the study highlights the importance of having reliable actors to attract audiences while questioning the enduring iconic status of traditional movie stardom. Read more …

• A mini-season of films on the Criterion Channel aims to give depth and dignity to the often demeaned gay best friend character in movies. Going beyond the romantic comedy genre, the selection includes realist dramas, psycho-thrillers, and art films, showcasing the evolution of the trope from a type to a human being.

• Redditors on r/movies, the largest film subreddit, have compiled a list of movies that are seemingly unbelievable but are based on actual events. From tales of corporate corruption to biopics on bungling criminals, these films highlight the extraordinary aspects of our world, proving that truth can be stranger than fiction.

• Ari Aster is considered a major influence in the film industry, redefining arthouse cinema with his genre-breaking work. His previous movies, Hereditary and Midsommar, have solidified his reputation, and his latest film, Beau is Afraid, is his most divisive yet. As the A24 film prepares for its VOD release, explore Aster's filmography ranked.

▶ Elemental

▶ The Blackening

▶ No Hard Feelings

Worldwide Box Office June 04, 2023 📈

♻️ Reboots and Sequels

Tweet of the Week(s):

New BFI Film Festival Celebrates Celluloid

Film on Film is a new festival at the BFI Southbank that aims to bring back the experience of watching films on celluloid prints, a rarity in the digital age. Most of these prints have been locked away for decades in storage sites, making seeing films in this format a luxury and a new experience for cinephiles.

And don't miss:

Why Is Netflix 4K So Expensive?

As Netflix enforces stricter measures against password sharing, users must decide whether the high price of Netflix Premium, offering 4K quality and ad-free viewing, is worth the investment. This article provides insights into the reasons behind Netflix 4K Premium's costliness and whether it justifies the expense.

When Stuntmen Direct the Film

This video essay explores how the co-directors of John Wick, Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, faced challenges in making their film due to hesitation about letting stunt workers direct. However, their extensive experience and belief in their storytelling abilities ultimately led to creation of the genre-reviving franchise. The essay highlights the unique perspective and skills that "stunt guys" can bring to filmmaking. Check out the video from @CinemaStix

Oh, just one more thing…

So long, BARRY 😭

📅 That’ll do, Pig.

And that concludes this edition! We hope you found the recommendations and insights enjoyable. If you have any feedback or ideas for upcoming newsletters, please don't hesitate to reach out.

End of line.

– Lee