The hottest Film Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Art & Illustration Topics

The Lesbian Tragedy of 'Gia'

Paging Dr. Lesbian • 235 implied HN points • 12 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Tragedy has different interpretations in art, with Aristotle seeing it as artistically and morally useful, Socrates finding it discouraging, and Nietzsche believing it relieves from the world's suffering.
  2. Lesbian and queer art intersects with the debate on tragedy, challenging perceptions of queerness as already tragic and exploring the importance of naming and portraying tragedy.
  3. The film 'Gia' portrays a tragic lesbian story, emphasizing the complexities of Gia as a character and highlighting the impact of her relationships and struggles, urging a deeper consideration of tragedy in queer narratives.

Oppenheimer The Movie

Life in the 21st Century • 235 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The movie 'Oppenheimer' sheds light on the brilliance and quirks of J. Robert Oppenheimer, but falls short in addressing the broader story of science and technology.
  2. Scientific and technological developments are independent of personal character flaws and traits, focusing on facts and discoveries instead.
  3. The film 'Oppenheimer' struggles with its third act by overly emphasizing Oppenheimer losing his security clearance, losing depth in addressing the broader political context of the Cold War era.

The Matchbook | 3.3.23

Signal Fire • 235 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Film
  1. The Oscars Best Cinematography Winners showcase the beauty of movies.
  2. Ten nuggets of wisdom from philosophers can help you live life better.
  3. Making friends in middle age is crucial for mental and physical health.

Kindling | 3.21.23

Signal Fire • 235 implied HN points • 21 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The post discusses the idea of leading a group of thieves in a heist.
  2. It prompts readers to consider their specific skills for a heist and what they would steal.
  3. The post offers a 7-day free trial to keep reading from the author.
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Thank you, and remember, the universe is in your basement

Both Are True • 298 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. David Lynch believes everyone has creativity and happiness inside them. It's okay to be positive and embrace the good in life.
  2. Cinema can express emotions and experiences that are hard to put into words. It connects with our feelings in a unique way.
  3. It's important to just create and share your work, instead of always explaining why you're doing it. The act of creating speaks for itself.

Notes on 'Zone of Interest', by Adam Lehrer

Safety Propaganda • 137 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Film
  1. Jonathan Glazer is known for his unique and groundbreaking films, setting high standards for himself.
  2. The film 'The Zone of Interest' portrays a haunting vanitas concept by juxtaposing idyllic visuals with disturbing sounds of a Holocaust setting.
  3. The use of sound in the film creates a jarring contradiction, making it both boring and disturbing at the same time.

On the canceled extended version of "X-Men" (2000)

Textual Variations • 331 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. There was a planned extended version of the first X-Men movie, called X-Men 1.5, which was meant to include new scenes about Cyclops and Storm's origins. However, it was canceled due to budget issues.
  2. Director Bryan Singer wanted to include these new scenes to add depth to the characters, but it didn't happen because the money was needed for the sequel, X2.
  3. Even though the scenes were never made, later X-Men movies revisited some of these ideas, showing that the concept was valued by filmmakers.

Tomi Faison: First As Tragedy Then As Larp

Do Not Research • 199 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Film
  1. The artwork 'First As Tragedy Then As Larp' by Tomi Faison delves into the concept of devirtualization and the transition of online politics to physical actions during specific events.
  2. The piece 'Carousel No. 1 (Desire Is Structured Like A Montage)' showcases a series of 35mm slide shows that explore the circular nature of desires and the unconscious through various sourced images.
  3. Through the use of film slides and montages, Tomi Faison's work reflects on drive and desire with a focus on the repetition and cyclical aspects of the unconscious.

Based Safety vs. Cringe Propaganda #51

Safety Propaganda • 216 implied HN points • 03 May 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Adam Lehrer resumes his Safety Propaganda platform after a break, discussing his novel, music projects, and bodybuilding regimen.
  2. Adam reviews Ari Aster's film 'Beau is Afraid' as a work of art of near unparalleled genius, exploring its themes and reactions.
  3. Major media shakeups include the firing of Tucker Carlson and the bankruptcy of VICE media, reflecting on their impact and transformations.

Postmodernism Is Good, Actually

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 1226 implied HN points • 24 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The novel 'J R' explores the corrupting influence of money on our pursuit of creating things of beauty.
  2. The current cultural trend of identity-mongering tied to neoliberal capitalism reflects themes seen in 'J R' from fifty years ago.
  3. Art should maintain autonomy and challenge norms, as seen through examples from the avant-garde and critical analysis of current artistic trends.

Jennifer Lopez: Now That's What I Call Me!

Teniade Topics • 117 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Jennifer Lopez is releasing a new visual album called 'Now That's What I Call Me!'
  2. She is known for her intense commitment and refusal to be detached, creating an extravagant, messy, yet pure star persona.
  3. The new experience is primarily for Jennifer Lopez fans who appreciate her unique charisma and dedication.

The Romantic Era Never Ended

Bet On It • 296 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The Romantic Era of music isn't over; it lives on in modern soundtracks. Many new compositions carry the spirit of famous Romantic composers.
  2. While some may think of soundtracks as simple background music, many actually hold high artistic value, comparable to classical masterpieces.
  3. It's important to appreciate and celebrate modern composers who continue the legacy of the Romantic tradition, rather than just mourn for the past.

🎦🌌 Dystopian Hollywood vs. a tech-optimist, Up Wing future

Faster, Please! • 731 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Popular sci-fi often portrays new technology harming humanity instead of helping, reflecting societal concerns and fears.
  2. Science fiction has shifted from optimistic visions of the future to dystopian and pessimistic outlooks, impacting our ability to strive for a better future.
  3. Movies and entertainment choices can reflect our core values and beliefs, influencing the success of different types of films in varying markets.

This Year's Best Bits: The Tipping Point?

What's Important? • 19 implied HN points • 19 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. 2025 felt like a tipping point where mystical or “woo” ideas and new models of consciousness moved from fringe curiosity into mainstream acceptance.
  2. Popular podcasts, books, and articles this year mixed scientific research with personal accounts of nonordinary experiences, highlighting renewed interest in healing and expanded models of mind.
  3. Mainstream entertainment—TV, film, and music—increasingly explored themes like collective consciousness and disclosure, signaling these ideas are spreading into broader culture and institutions.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 39

Why is this interesting? • 241 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. David Lynch is known for his strange movies, but he also had a love for his Scion xB car as he lived in Los Angeles.
  2. A man in Oregon shared that he created viral googly eye sculptures as a way to deal with heavy emotions.
  3. Many artists are covering the classic song 'A Long December' by Counting Crows, showcasing its lasting impact.

Reflections on Y2K and a Crappy Year on Substack

Textual Variations • 265 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Y2K was a big deal back in 1999, with many people fearing that computers would fail and cause chaos. Thankfully, it turned out to be mostly nothing, and it was a weird moment in history.
  2. 2024 was a tough year for many, especially for writers trying to grow their audience on platforms like Substack. It can be hard when things don't go as planned.
  3. Albert Pyun, a low-budget filmmaker, has a director's cut of his 1990 'Captain America' movie that many fans are excited to see. It's a chance to understand his vision better.

Anxieties about kids and screen time, train vs. submarine movies, crime-novel recommendations, and other questions

Read Max • 1080 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The writer discusses concerns about raising kids with technology, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries and modeling healthy behaviors.
  2. Submarine movies and train movies are compared, with a humorous take on cinematic transportation in films.
  3. The intersection of AI, writing, and labor is explored, emphasizing the social aspect of writing and the potential impacts of AI on the craft.

And In My Head I Do My Very Best Saying Goodbye

Babbling On • 196 implied HN points • 07 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Experiencing change can offer new perspectives and help in moving past personal struggles.
  2. Seeking beauty in surroundings and reconnecting with creative outlets can aid in healing and feeling like oneself again.
  3. Cinematic moments and experiences can offer a form of escapism and reflection during times of emotional turmoil.

The Rise of the Theater Kids

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 310 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The success of the movie 'Wicked' shows that theater kids are becoming really popular in pop culture. Their high energy and performances are winning everyone's attention.
  2. With a huge budget and lots of marketing, 'Wicked' is shaping into a big cultural event, drawing people into the world of musical theater.
  3. The film's success at the box office proves that theater adaptations can be very profitable, marking a win for theater kids everywhere.

T.V. News: Pledges, Hiatus, Wong Kar Wai Revisions

Textual Variations • 231 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The author plans to take a break from publication to catch up on other priorities, which might cause gaps in the schedule this Spring. They hope to return to a regular posting schedule by May.
  2. Wong Kar Wai's classic film 'In the Mood for Love' is being reissued in China with new footage, and there are discussions about changes that may come with this release.
  3. The new animated series 'Invincible Fight Girl' is praised for its authentic anime style and storytelling, blending action with comedic elements in a unique way.

Dune 3: Planetary Regeneration?

Surfing the Future • 59 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The Kynes family in 'Dune' is crucial, with Pardot, Liet-Kynes, and Chani playing significant roles in planetary regeneration.
  2. The complex characters and the family business of planetary regeneration add depth and memorability to the 'Dune' story.
  3. Herbert's ecological themes in 'Dune' explore the aim of all life to maintain coordinated patterns of greater diversity, emphasizing the importance of sustaining life.

when the youtube motivational videos stop working

Both Are True • 226 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  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.

A rant about children’s movies

The Common Reader • 1240 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Children's films are often created with adult perspectives in mind, leading to moral shortcomings.
  2. Studio Ghibli movies prioritize realistic challenges and creativity in a way that Disney films do not.
  3. Studio Ghibli movies set a better moral example by portraying a world where hard work, creativity, and real-life challenges are valued.

Intermissions

Austin Kleon • 1179 implied HN points • 16 Nov 21
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. It's fun to watch movies in parts instead of all at once. Taking breaks can make the experience more enjoyable.
  2. You can create a zine, which is a small magazine, to share your thoughts or ideas easily. It's a fun way to express yourself.
  3. Watching old movies in black and white can give them a new twist. It can feel like you're seeing the film for the first time again.

Back with Bette and Joan!

Disaffected Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 17 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The watch party for the miniseries 'Feud: Bette and Joan' is a fun way to connect over classic Hollywood drama. It's happening on March 19 and everyone is welcome to join the discussion.
  2. Bette Davis and Joan Crawford had very different personalities, with Davis being a talented actress and Crawford more of a classic movie star. Their intense rivalry makes for a captivating story to explore.
  3. The series delves deeper into the personal struggles of both actresses and highlights the challenges they faced in an ageist Hollywood. It's a mix of humor, tragedy, and glamour that portrays their complex relationship.

Somehow They Filmed a Movie From Inside My Internet-Addled Brain

Michael Tracey • 88 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The movie 'Eddington' effectively captures the chaotic nature of our online lives and how it spills into real life. It portrays how people get lost in social media and feel detached from reality.
  2. Joaquin Phoenix's character is complex and reflects contemporary political themes without endorsing any particular viewpoint. The film shows the absurdity of online behaviors and their real-world consequences.
  3. The film's representation of events like protests and conspiracy theories mirrors the strange and wild experience of recent years. It connects the dots between internet culture and current social issues in a unique way.

Links for June

By Reason Alone • 110 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. It's important to understand how trade agreements really work because they involve many details beyond just tariffs. Knowing the ins and outs can help you talk smarter about trade.
  2. Dublin's water infrastructure has been poorly managed for decades, with no new sources being built since 1940. This shows a serious need for investment and improvement.
  3. Exercise can help you feel more connected to your body and improve your mental health. Many people overlook the importance of physical activity and its positive effects on life.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Castalia • 179 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is more about the human cost of espionage than the spy work itself. It shows how pressure and ambition can wear people down and impact their lives.
  2. The series emphasizes the theme of waste, highlighting how many characters dedicate their lives to ideals without any reward. Their struggles often lead to feelings of emptiness and loss.
  3. While George Smiley and others navigate a morally gray world, the show suggests that maintaining one's dignity and doing your best work can be meaningful, even if the larger system feels corrupt.

Does The Female Gaze Exist?

Paging Dr. Lesbian • 176 implied HN points • 26 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The concept of the female gaze is not a scholarly term and lacks rigorous evaluation.
  2. The male gaze in cinema is rooted in psychoanalytic theory and apparatus theory, privileging the masculine perspective.
  3. Black feminist scholars like bell hooks critique the lack of intersectionality and representation in traditional feminist film theory.

Sensitive

The Line Between • 176 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Take in good things to make good things
  2. Art can unexpectedly bring out emotions and offer what we need
  3. It's inspiring to see older individuals making comebacks in the film industry

The Queer Danger of Girl, Interrupted

Paging Dr. Lesbian • 176 implied HN points • 05 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The film 'Girl, Interrupted' explores themes of danger and the choice to face it
  2. Angelina Jolie's character in the film represents a queer and dangerous figure
  3. The dynamic between Jolie and Winona Ryder in the film is highly potent and drives much of the action

Men in 1973 vs Men in 2023

diabolical • 176 implied HN points • 30 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Meme about men in 1973 vs men in 2023 highlights changing perceptions of masculinity over time.
  2. Appearance can be deceiving when it comes to masculinity; deeper discussions are needed on men's issues in today's society.
  3. Cultural tensions around freedom and masculinity depicted in the film 'Easy Rider' still resonate today.

27 Trippy Films to Spice Up Your Holiday Break

Tripsitter • 119 implied HN points • 20 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Explore a collection of trippy films and TV shows to watch during the holiday break, ranging from whimsical animations to mind-bending sci-fi series.
  2. Encounter unique storytelling and visually captivating experiences in movies like 'Waking Life' and 'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,' each pushing boundaries in their respective genres.
  3. Dive into surreal worlds and existential conversations with TV series like 'The Midnight Gospel' and 'Russian Doll,' offering deep philosophical exploration in a visually striking manner.

Fall in the Family

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 14 implied HN points • 18 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Certain violent events and the political reactions to them can act as archetypal signs that reveal shifts in the collective psyche.
  2. A mainstream cultural figure can stand for an older liberal, secular vision of America—social mobility, pluralism, and civility—that now feels like a fading, outdated ideal.
  3. These deaths combined with an extreme political response signal a broader collapse of civic discourse and the rise of authoritarian impulses, marking an unsettling threshold in public life.

Can Hollywood Be Saved? One Man Is Trying, And The Industry Hates Him For It

Unmasked • 29 implied HN points • 09 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Hollywood is facing major problems as box office revenues have dropped, and studios like Disney and Marvel aren't doing well. Many people are worried about the future of the movie industry.
  2. Political messages in movies seem to be pushing away a large part of the audience. Some actors are more focused on their political views than on entertaining everyone.
  3. Paramount Pictures is trying to make movies that appeal to a broader audience. This approach is being criticized by others in Hollywood, but it could be a step toward revitalizing the industry.

Waterbirth at Sea: Pregnancy, a Power Drill, and Transcendence in the Middle of "Nowhere"

Humanities in Revolt • 139 implied HN points • 18 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Film
  1. Movies and TV often portray childbirth in a narrow and disempowering way, overlooking the humanizing and empowering aspects of the experience.
  2. The film 'Nowhere' challenges typical narratives by showcasing a pregnant woman's survival and birth in a dystopian setting, emphasizing her strength and resilience.
  3. 'Nowhere' highlights the importance of creative transcendence over destructive tendencies in storytelling, particularly through the unique representations of women's birthing and caregiving roles.