The Pandemic’s Effect On Cinema and Production

In addition to a halt in box office sales, film production has also slowed the past few months. I believe this is the ideal opportunity for the industry to blossom creatively, for quality films to flourish in accordance with smaller budgets, sets, and casts. There is something raw and beautiful about less precision and professionalism, which Hollywood tends to rely on. New voices and creators within the independent film industry may thrive, working around the struggles a pandemic provides. This time around, creativity and flexibility win over professionalism…

Continue Reading →

The Triviality of Performative Social Justice in Media

Following worldwide protests empowering black and indigenous lives, corporations have attempted catering to the masses by sporting temporary Black Lives Matter logos, altering racially insensitive brand names, and so on. Corporate media is another participator of such performative allyship, with white voice actors collectively stepping down from black roles. But why are shows like The Simpsons, Big Mouth, and Family Guy releasing statements of regret, conveniently after several season releases and a time of mass civil unrest? 

Continue Reading →

Art Films 101: “Ida”

If you’re looking for a film that surpasses mere entertainment, Ida by Pawel Pawlikowski may be an eye-opener. The 2013 Polish film, with its poignant story and stunning cinematography, ignited my love and appreciation for art films. “Ida” explores existentialism, family, and the secular world versus religion through Ida Lebenstein, a Catholic-raised girl who learns of her Jewish background after meeting her only living relative, Wanda Gruz.

Continue Reading →