Must See Filmclub - Deep Dive

Day for Night (1973)

In this episode, we explore François Truffaut's iconic film about filmmaking, La Nuit Américaine (1973), or Day for Night. This meta-cinematic gem blurs the lines between fiction and reality, offering a witty and poignant glimpse into the chaos and emotional entanglements of movie production. It’s both a love letter to cinema and a sharp critique of the madness behind the magic. Tune in as we unpack how Truffaut masterfully contrasts the illusions of film with the raw human emotions that drive the art of moviemaking.

The Bad and the Beautiful (1953)

In this episode, we dive into Vincente Minnelli's classic Hollywood melodrama, **_The Bad and the Beautiful_** (1953). Known for its dazzling portrayal of ambition, artistry, and betrayal, the film offers a searing look behind the scenes of the movie industry. We’ll explore how the "movie in a movie" narrative device brilliantly uncovers the tangled web of personal ambition, fractured relationships, and the sacrifices made for cinematic success. Join us as we uncover the complex dynamics that drive Hollywood’s golden age in this timeless classic!

Show People (1928)

In this episode, we dive into King Vidor’s silent gem, Show People (1928), a timeless satire of early Hollywood. Nearly a century later, it’s still as charming and enjoyable as ever! We’ll explore why this critically acclaimed film stands the test of time with its witty humor, energetic performances, and clever commentary on the early days of Tinseltown. Tune in to discover the magic behind one of Hollywood’s most delightful silent-era comedies!

Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

In this episode, we dive into the mind-bending world of Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022), directed by the visionary duo Daniels (Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert). Join us as we follow Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh), a stressed laundromat owner facing a mid-life crisis, who discovers she can access alternate versions of herself across parallel universes. Suddenly entangled in an epic cosmic battle, Evelyn must harness her newfound abilities to save her family and reality itself.

Get Out (2017)

In this episode, we explore Jordan Peele’s groundbreaking 2017 horror sensation, Get Out. Join us as we unravel how Peele masterfully combines classic horror thrills with sharp social commentary on racism in contemporary America. We’ll follow the gripping story of Chris, portrayed by Daniel Kaluuya, an African-American man who visits his white girlfriend Rose’s family estate—only to encounter unsettling behaviors from the enigmatic Black housekeeper and groundskeeper.

In the Mood for Love (2000)

In this episode, we immerse ourselves in Wong Kar-wai’s visually stunning and emotionally rich masterpiece, In the Mood for Love (2000). Join us as we explore the poignant story of Chow Mo-wan (Tony Leung) and Su Li-zhen (Maggie Cheung), neighbors who form a deeply emotional yet platonic bond after discovering their spouses’ infidelities. We’ll discuss how their unexpressed love and understanding create a hauntingly beautiful narrative that delves into the complexities of love, longing, and loyalty.

Watermelon Woman (1996)

In this episode, we dive into Cheryl Dunye’s groundbreaking 1996 film, The Watermelon Woman. This pioneering work masterfully blends documentary and fiction to explore the intersections of race, sexuality, and history. Follow the journey of Cheryl, a young African-American lesbian filmmaker, as she uncovers the life of a forgotten black actress known only as “The Watermelon Woman.” Join us as we discuss how Dunye’s innovative narrative challenges traditional cinema, offering a candid and complex representation of black queer identity while critiquing the selective nature of historical documentation. Tune in for an insightful conversation about a film that reshaped the landscape of independent cinema and continues to resonate today.

Touki Bouki(1973)

In this episode, we dive deep into Djibril Diop Mambéty’s groundbreaking 1973 film, Touki Bouki (The Journey of the Hyena), a cornerstone of African cinema that gained international acclaim. Join us as we follow the captivating story of Senegalese couple Mory and Anta, who dream of breaking free from their mundane lives in Dakar to pursue the allure of Paris.

Breathless (1960)

This episode looks at Jean-Luc Godard's groundbreaking 1960 film Breathless, a key work of the French New Wave. The film tells the story of Michel, a small-time crook who finds himself on the run after a murder and becomes involved with an American journalist. We will explore the film's innovative cinematic techniques, including jump cuts, handheld camera shots and a documentary style, which break with traditional conventions and create a sense of realism and immediacy.

Tokyo Story (1953)

Tokyo Story (東京物語 Tōkyō Monogatari) is a 1953 Japanese feature film directed by Yasujirō Ozu, widely regarded as a masterpiece of world cinema and released in Japan in 1953. The film offers a profound examination of family dynamics, generational conflicts and the passage of time in post-war Japan.