The hottest Film Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Art & Illustration Topics

The Film and Studio That 'Should Not Exist'

Animation Obsessive • 13095 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Design Creativity Production
  1. Cinema Fantasma, a unique stop-motion studio in Mexico, created the first Mexican stop-motion feature film called 'I Am Frankelda.' Their work shows how creativity can thrive even with tight budgets.
  2. The film has a fun, imaginative storyline with memorable characters and songs that resonate with audiences. Its premiere at the Annecy Festival was met with excitement and applause.
  3. The Ambriz brothers, who run Cinema Fantasma, faced many challenges but remained determined to bring their vision to life. They hope their success inspires more stop-motion projects in Mexico in the future.

'Life Is Too Short to Make Remakes'

Animation Obsessive • 13813 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Animation Events Creativity Film
  1. The Annecy Festival is a huge event for animation, attracting around 18,000 visitors and showcasing unique and powerful art from around the world.
  2. Michel Gondry emphasizes the importance of originality and creativity in art, believing that life is too short to spend making remakes of existing works.
  3. New films like 'The Mourning Children' highlight the dedication of animators to produce authentic and impactful stories by deeply researching historical contexts.

The French Film That Changed Japanese Animation

Animation Obsessive • 24397 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film Animation History Art Influence
  1. The French film _The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep_ had a big impact on Japanese animation when it was released in Japan. It showed animators that animated films could be for adults, not just kids.
  2. Filmmakers like Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata were inspired by the film's unique storytelling and beautiful animation style. They noted how it created a vivid world that felt real and grounded.
  3. The film influenced new ideas about how animation could express deeper themes, such as social and political issues, which changed the way Japanese animated films were made going forward.

Tuesday night dinner

What Do We Do Now That We're Here? • 2408 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Film Parenting Emotions
  1. Finding moments of presence in everyday life can create special experiences, like enjoying dinner while listening to film scores. It's important to appreciate these small, joyful moments before they become memories.
  2. Film scores can evoke strong emotions and help connect with deeper feelings. They can change a regular evening into something meaningful simply through music.
  3. Building community and connection is crucial for emotional support. It helps both parents and lonely individuals find joy and purpose together.

A man's gotta have a code, but there's a limit

Situation Normal • 74 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Television Ethics Art
  1. Having a personal code is important, but it can lead you into complicated situations. It's what guides a hero's actions in tough choices.
  2. Choosing your battles wisely is key to maintaining your sanity and focus. If you fight every fight, you risk losing sight of what truly matters.
  3. As you grow older, it's wise to be pickier about which issues you care enough to engage with. Save your energy for the hills that are really worth fighting on.
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The Visual World of 'Samurai Jack'

Animation Obsessive • 30856 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Visual Arts Film Television Storytelling
  1. Samurai Jack told stories through visuals instead of dialogue. The team focused on creating beautiful images that captured emotions and actions without needing words.
  2. The show's unique art style came from mixing different influences, like classic films and mid-century cartoons. This made the backgrounds and characters really stand out.
  3. Tartakovsky believed kids could understand complex stories, so he created a show that treated them with intelligence. This bold approach made Samurai Jack memorable and different from other cartoons at the time.

If Joan Didion wrote 'Little Drummer Girl'?

Read Max • 605 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Music Media Criticism
  1. There's a new espionage novel that mixes rich settings with themes similar to Joan Didion and 'Little Drummer Girl.' It sounds intriguing for fans of deep storytelling.
  2. The roundup includes recommendations for unexpected topics like the Murdoch family and some odd mysteries, which could make for interesting reading.
  3. There’s a one-take action movie mentioned that blends suspense with gritty action, perfect for anyone who enjoys intense thrillers.

The Audacity of Ambition

The Ruffian • 503 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Celebrity Film Art Ambition Public Speaking
  1. Timothée Chalamet is openly striving for greatness in his career, which is unusual in today's culture. Most people don't talk about wanting to be the best, but he is bold enough to express that ambition.
  2. Chalamet has devoted a huge amount of time and effort to his craft, even going as far as shutting off his phone for months to fully immerse himself in his roles. This shows how dedicated he is to his work.
  3. His speech about ambition was met with mixed reactions, highlighting a cultural tension where many people are hesitant to celebrate individual success. Chalamet's honesty about his goals challenges that idea.

The 99-Year-Old Film That Stops People

Animation Obsessive • 18567 implied HN points • 19 May 25
🎭️ Culture Film Animation Art History Media
  1. A film called _The Adventures of Prince Achmed_ is really special because it's the oldest animated feature still around. Even after almost 100 years, people are still amazed by its magic and creativity.
  2. The director, Lotte Reiniger, used a unique cut-out style that made her work stand out from others. Her approach was different from American cartoons, focusing more on artistic storytelling through puppetry and silhouettes.
  3. Despite the struggles during its creation and the trouble faced by her team with the rise of the Nazis, the film gained huge popularity and helped show the power of animation even in tough times.

Why We’re Obsessed with JFK Conspiracies

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 741 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories History Politics Media Film
  1. Many people are really curious about JFK's assassination and the theories surrounding it. These theories often stem from a mix of history and pop culture.
  2. The 1991 movie _JFK_ played a big role in shaping public interest in these conspiracy theories. It questioned the government's involvement in the assassination and got people talking.
  3. Recently, the idea of releasing more documents on JFK's assassination has garnered attention, especially with Donald Trump's involvement. It shows that the topic is still relevant and controversial today.

A Portal to the Past

Animation Obsessive • 1793 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Animation History Film Media
  1. The 1980s were a special time for Shanghai Animation Film Studio, making it a leader in Chinese animation.
  2. A rare brochure was digitized to preserve and share the studio's history and artworks from 1957 to 1987.
  3. The article expresses gratitude to readers for their support and mentions excitement about an upcoming trip to a festival.

Oscar the Grouch

Gideon's Substack • 7 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Film Criticism Entertainment Events Awards
  1. Oscar movies often don't match personal taste, despite their prestige. It's interesting how we expect serious films to be good but sometimes they aren't.
  2. Some films gain Oscar nominations for political reasons rather than quality, and this can lead to unexpected viewer reactions.
  3. The film industry is changing, with fewer mid-budget, serious films being made, which affects what audiences are excited to see. Maybe it's time to wish for better films that speak to a wider audience.

Hearing What You See

Animation Obsessive • 2421 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Music Media Visual Arts
  1. Mickey Mousing is when music matches the exact movements in animation. This technique started in early cartoons and was popularized by Mickey Mouse.
  2. Some famous artists and directors criticized Mickey Mousing as being too mechanical and limiting. They believed it took away from the original creativity of the film.
  3. Despite the criticism, syncing music closely with animation can still be powerful and effective when done well. Some animations have shown that this technique can enhance the experience.

What Happens in a Second?

Animation Obsessive • 2870 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Art History Media
  1. The length of the film 'The Adventures of Prince Achmed' varies between different editions. Some versions are 65 minutes long while others are longer due to differences in playback speed.
  2. There's a debate about how long the film originally was, with some believing it could be as long as 90 minutes. This confusion stems from how silent films are understood and played today.
  3. The discussion around the film highlights a broader issue about silent films in general and how one second can mean different things in different contexts. It's a fun puzzle that has had people talking for many years!

HALLOWEEN HORRORS (cont.)

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 579 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Horror Critique Media Entertainment
  1. Rob Zombie's version of 'Halloween' presents a more human and demonic Michael Myers, giving depth to his character as he deals with abuse and violence.
  2. The portrayal of Dr. Loomis is twisted, showing him as a con man looking to profit from Michael's killings, which reflects modern culture's obsession with crime and entertainment.
  3. The film 'Lifeforce' offers a unique blend of sci-fi and horror with its storyline about energy vampires, featuring impressive special effects and an adventurous feel despite being a commercial flop.

Fly-fishing in a business suit

Read Max • 711 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Music Fashion International
  1. This week features a mix of cool recommendations, including a thrilling international book and a stylish 1990s movie.
  2. There's interesting reading on sports conspiracy theories and financing in soccer, plus a new eurodance-pop album that's really enjoyable.
  3. The writer loves getting suggestions from readers for books or movies they might like, and they offer a free trial for new subscribers.

How the Star of 'Wicked' Just Sabotaged Her Own Movie

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 356 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Theater Entertainment Performing Arts Social Issues
  1. Cynthia Erivo reacted strongly to a fan's edited poster of 'Wicked', claiming it was offensive and degraded her. Many thought her response was an overreaction and not necessary.
  2. This kind of response from Hollywood actors is becoming more common. Some stars seem to let their egos get too big, which can harm their own films.
  3. There's a growing trend where people in entertainment see themselves as victims of oppression. This makes it hard to enjoy their work when they focus on perceived grievances instead of celebrating their art.

HALLOWEEN HORRORS (cont.)

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 759 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Horror Arts Media Entertainment
  1. Phantasm II is a sequel that captures the essence of the 1980s horror trend. It's a fun film with great action where the characters fight against a powerful evil entity.
  2. Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer is a dark and brutal film that portrays the reality of serial murder without glamorizing it. It's a raw look at a killer's life and actions.
  3. Prince of Darkness blends horror and science fiction in a unique way. It explores deep themes while maintaining a creepy atmosphere, making it a standout John Carpenter film.

The Truth About Bob Dylan’s Falling Out with Pete Seeger

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4229 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music Film Politics History Art
  1. Bob Dylan's conflict with Pete Seeger was more about differing political views than Dylan going electric. Seeger and others were concerned about Dylan's lack of interest in their leftist politics.
  2. Dylan's career has played tricks on fans and critics alike, creating misunderstandings about his true beliefs and intentions. His complex lyrics and infrequent interviews lead to lots of interpretations, some far from the truth.
  3. The film 'A Complete Unknown' attempts to provide a straightforward take on Dylan's early career, but it misses the bigger picture of his unique relationship with the political scene around him. Dylan chose his own path, moving away from the expectations of his folk singer peers.

The femcel crypto-degen catalog model and the serial killer

Read Max • 922 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Film Music Literature Art
  1. There's been a lot of talk about a little AI from China that really made waves in Silicon Valley this week. It seems to be a big deal in tech discussions right now.
  2. A new dark web movie explores intense themes like true crime, cryptocurrency, and mental health issues. It sounds like a gripping watch for those interested in these topics.
  3. A new album has been released that combines sounds similar to Radiohead. If you enjoy multi-instrumental music, this could be a great addition to your playlist.

‘Emilia Pérez’ and the Curse of Oscar Bait

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1358 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Awards Media Entertainment Arts
  1. The film 'Emilia Pérez' is a strong Oscar contender, despite losing money at the box office. Many viewers may feel left out because it wasn't made with them in mind.
  2. Oscar bait films are designed to catch the attention of Academy voters, who often favor serious dramas and social commentary. This leads to films that resonate more with industry insiders than with general audiences.
  3. Past Oscar winners like 'Moonlight' and 'Nomadland' show a pattern of how the awards often favor poignant stories, even if they don't perform well commercially.

David Lynch, 1946-2025.

The Bottom Feeder • 630 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Fantasy Media
  1. David Lynch was a unique filmmaker who made strange but influential art that didn't always make sense. His work often blended reality with surreal elements, creating something both unsettling and captivating.
  2. Lynch believed in having the final cut of his films, which meant his vision was fully realized without outside interference. This independence can inspire other creators to prioritize their artistic integrity.
  3. Modern fantasy often makes magic too clear and predictable, which can take away its mystery. Lynch's work reminds us that magic can be strange and elusive, making it much more compelling.

What I'm reading about the tech right and Trump, a gonzo Iron-Age movie with dialogue in proto-Latin, my all-time favorite album now on streaming

Read Max • 1290 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Arts Literature Film Music
  1. There are lots of interesting articles out there about tech leaders like Trump, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg. They cover some pretty serious topics.
  2. A fun Italian movie set in the Iron Age is being recommended. It's cheesy and entertaining, perfect for a light watch.
  3. One of the all-time favorite albums of the author is now available to stream online. It's exciting to have it accessible again.

HALLOWEEN HORRORS

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 1278 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Horror Art Media Literature
  1. The horror film 'X-TRO' explores deep themes of family and alienation against the backdrop of 1980s UK troubles. Its unique approach makes it not just a scary film, but also a reflection of society's issues.
  2. In 'FOUND', the story of a boy dealing with a serial killer brother unfolds in a disturbing, shocking way. It's not just about horror; it shows the complex family dynamics and the impact of violence.
  3. The classic 'PHANTASM' combines elements of science fiction and horror, raising questions about reality and death. Its surreal style captures the fears of childhood, resonating with anyone who grew up in the dangerous environment of the late 70s.

How ‘Puss in Boots' Reveals the Key to Human Happiness (Seriously)

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 158 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Philosophy Happiness Society Literature
  1. Appreciating what you have is key to happiness. Instead of focusing on what you don't have, think about the good things in your life.
  2. The characters in 'Puss in Boots' show that friendship and love matter more than wishes. Sometimes, you realize what you want is already around you.
  3. Envy not only makes you unhappy, but it can also lead you down a dark path. Being grateful helps you enjoy life better.

Is the Baroness in The Sound of Music a Nazi?

The Common Reader • 2055 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Literature History Art Theater
  1. The Baroness in The Sound of Music might be seen as a Nazi sympathizer due to her actions and lack of opposition to the Nazi regime. Her character does not openly challenge the views around her.
  2. She maintains a connection to Rolf, who is aligned with the Nazis, indicating a passive acceptance of his stance. This raises questions about her moral standing in the film.
  3. While the film is viewed as a beloved classic, the deeper analysis of its characters, like the Baroness, reveals complex themes related to loyalty and affiliation during a troubled historical period.

Listening is the whole deal

Austin Kleon • 6554 implied HN points • 26 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Film Literature Creative Process
  1. Listening is really important in music and art. It helps you connect deeply with what you're experiencing, whether it's a song or a piece of writing.
  2. Movies like _Perfect Days_ show us the beauty of simple life moments, like taking photos and enjoying music, reminding us to appreciate everyday experiences.
  3. When creating something, many artists say they listen to their work. It’s like the art guides them on what to do next—this shows how important it is to be open and receptive during the creative process.

🚀 Beyond 'The Jetsons': A new vision of a fantastic future that never was

Faster, Please! • 1096 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film Design Futurism Architecture Literature
  1. Stories about the future are really important. They can inspire people to be more creative and push for new technologies.
  2. Dystopian tales have been popular for a long time, which makes the need for positive and hopeful stories about the future even greater.
  3. With technology changing fast, like AI and space travel, we need more stories that remind us to dream big and embrace progress.

The Girlboss Is Sleeping with the Intern

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2606 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Society Gender Art Literature
  1. There is a growing sense of dissatisfaction among women, leading some to seek out new experiences or break commitments. Many women feel trapped in their current lives and long for excitement or change.
  2. The film 'Babygirl' explores the character Romy, who seems successful but feels unfulfilled in her marriage. Her search for pleasure and connection leads her to an affair with her younger intern.
  3. Romy's journey highlights the complexities of desire and the risks people take when chasing what they think will make them happy. It raises questions about love, commitment, and personal satisfaction.

What's the Most Profitable Movie of the Year? (No, I Won't Watch It.)

The Honest Broker • 12168 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Music Literature Entertainment Art
  1. Horror movies are really making money right now. Films like 'Terrifier 3' and 'Smile 2' are bringing in huge profits compared to what they cost to make.
  2. Bob Dylan is now writing quirky tweets directly from his account, sharing his unique thoughts without his team’s help. It offers fans a personal look at his views beyond music.
  3. People are increasingly worried about AI. Many believe it's reducing trust in media and making us lazier, and most want more rules on how AI is used.

Orson Welles as Falstaff on Late Night TV

Castles in the Sky • 15 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Theater Film Television Literature Art
  1. Orson Welles performing Shakespeare on late-night TV was a bold and unique choice. Today, it would be surprising to see such dramatic performances on those shows.
  2. The film 'Chimes at Midnight' creatively combines multiple Shakespeare plays, which is a clever idea that could inspire others to mix classic storytelling with modern interpretations.
  3. There’s a desire to read all of Shakespeare’s plays, and a group reading challenge could make it more enjoyable. Having a community can motivate people to explore Shakespeare together.

Great Movies You Might Not Have Seen, Part 4

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1844 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Media Literature Performing Arts
  1. There are many great movies that most people haven't seen, and they are worth checking out. These films often have unique stories and perspectives that can inspire and entertain.
  2. One movie, 'After Life,' explores what happens when you die and how people choose a significant memory to carry with them. It's both a thoughtful and fun take on life and memory.
  3. Another interesting film, 'Temple Grandin,' tells the inspiring true story of a woman with autism who revolutionized the livestock industry. It highlights her unique understanding of animals and her journey in overcoming challenges.

Culture Study Classifieds, Heart of Winter Style

Culture Study • 2372 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Community Arts Film Podcasts
  1. The classifieds section connects readers from all over the world, allowing them to share services and create groups like book clubs.
  2. People can post about services they offer, skills they want to share for free, or projects they're proud of to gain support and praise.
  3. This space encourages readers to find recommendations, make new friends, or even trade items, creating a supportive community online.

Totoro Before Totoro

Animation Obsessive • 16952 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Art Media History
  1. In the late 1970s, Hayao Miyazaki began his career by working on the film 'Panda! Go, Panda!' which greatly influenced his future works.
  2. The film focused on everyday life, showing a young girl and her magical encounters, aiming to highlight the charm in simple moments.
  3. Many key staff members from 'Panda!' went on to shape Studio Ghibli, showing its lasting impact on animation and storytelling.

HALLOWEEN HORRORS (cont.)

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 659 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Film Horror Music Nostalgia
  1. In 1988, many horror films were released, making it a great year for horror fans. Movies like 'Night of the Demons' stood out with their unique style and practical effects.
  2. 'Ghost Town' mixes western themes with horror, featuring a sheriff facing off against undead outlaws. It's an interesting take on classic cowboy stories.
  3. 'Trick or Treat' reflects the fears of the 1980s about heavy metal music and Satanism. The movie taps into that era's moral panic, making it a unique snapshot of its time.

The Animation Trove That Keeps Growing

Animation Obsessive • 10494 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Art History Media
  1. The Zagreb School of Animation has restored many classic cartoons from the 50s, 60s, and 70s, making them available in high quality on YouTube. These cartoons are unique for their adult themes and artistic styles, breaking away from traditional children's animation.
  2. The success of the animated film _Nezha 2_ has set new box office records in China, surpassing $1 billion in just ten days. Its unprecedented popularity showcases a growing trend in animated films capturing massive audiences and financial success.
  3. Animation production in places like Yugoslavia and China reflects a strong spirit of creativity and boundary-pushing, with artists working together and exploring unconventional ideas, even in challenging circumstances.

Open Mic Day: Tells Us About Your Favorite Movies, Music, Books, Etc. of 2024

The Honest Broker • 5818 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Film Music Literature Television Gaming Arts
  1. Share your favorite movies, music, books, and more from 2024. Everyone loves to hear new recommendations!
  2. It's important to have fun and take a break from serious topics sometimes. Sharing our creative finds can lift our spirits.
  3. When sharing, try not to promote your own projects this time. This is about celebrating what others have created.

when the youtube motivational videos stop working

Both Are True • 226 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Motivation Film Personal Growth Fitness Psychology
  1. Motivational videos can inspire workouts, but they may lose their impact over time. Sometimes you need something deeper, like an emotional connection to a story.
  2. True fulfillment comes from within, not from external achievements or recognition. It's important to know that your self-worth isn't defined by likes, numbers, or others' opinions.
  3. Feeling empty or seeking validation is normal. It's helpful to find healthy ways to express emotions, like writing or working out, instead of relying on outside sources for happiness.