J.C. Macek III

Fans Killed the Magic of Mystery in Hollywood Films

Fans Killed the Magic of Mystery in Hollywood Films

The Force is no longer mysterious. We've demanded to know everything about Logan’s history at the expense of his mystery. Hollywood complies. The magic is dead.
Spy for Sale: What Does the Future Hold for the James Bond Series and for Bond Himself?

Spy for Sale: What Does the Future Hold for the James Bond Series and for Bond Himself?

With Sony's 007 contract expired, we take a tongue-in-cheek look at how very differently the Bond films might take shape under different studios.
Mainstream Darko: Director Richard Kelly on Building His Own Sandbox

Mainstream Darko: Director Richard Kelly on Building His Own Sandbox

Much as Donnie Darko claimed widespread fame by defying both convention and expectation, Richard Kelly is fighting to bring the mainstream to him on his own terms.

Turkeys from Turkey: The Best Bad Films on the Globe

Turkeys from Turkey: The Best Bad Films on the Globe

Turkey has a rich cultural tradition in film, but lax copyright standards and low budgets led to some very bad rip off films that are funnier than ever today.
Something Isn’t Right with Criterion’s ‘Something Wild’

Something Isn’t Right with Criterion’s ‘Something Wild’

This film itself is problematic, but Criterion’s Blu-ray of Something Wild has me wondering, is Criterion slipping?

What Happens When Happy Shows Turn All X-Files on You?

What Happens When Happy Shows Turn All X-Files on You?

From The Brady Bunch to M*A*S*H, what do we do when our favorite TV shows spawn shockingly dark offspring?
In ‘The Quiet Earth’ The End of the World Arrives with a Whisper

In ‘The Quiet Earth’ The End of the World Arrives with a Whisper

This cerebral drama stands up with some of the best and most original science fiction.
The Criterion Edition of ‘Cat People’ Leaves an Indelible Impression

The Criterion Edition of ‘Cat People’ Leaves an Indelible Impression

The horror master Val Lewton is immortalized in this excellent reissue of his first (and possibly best) film, Cat People.

The Future and Past of Batman, Superman, Fantastic Four and Hunger Games

In ‘Esteros’, When Intolerant Society Pushes, Love Pushes Back

In ‘Esteros’, When Intolerant Society Pushes, Love Pushes Back

While appreciating the beauty of Argentina, Esteros tells a story of timeless love.
Adding Spice Amid the Chaos, an Interview With Faith No More’s Billy Gould

Adding Spice Amid the Chaos, an Interview With Faith No More’s Billy Gould

Faith No More's producer, songwriter and bassist on the songwriting craft, the re-release of their first album, and the real reasons behind guitarist Jim Martin's departure.
Hidden City to Hidden Cities: An Interview with the Cult’s Billy Duffy

Hidden City to Hidden Cities: An Interview with the Cult’s Billy Duffy

Wrapping up a blazing tour supporting new album Hidden City, The Cult's Billy Duffy reflects on the band's dynamic, their style, and how best to irritate the critics.