The hottest Film Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Art & Illustration Topics

Little Treats

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 06 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Enjoy little treats along your journey of self-improvement, they are important.
  2. Find joy in small things like Algonquin School paintings and quality fruits from California.
  3. Discover unique items like Emilio Braga notebooks and engaging books for a well-rounded experience.

PictureTime: The Balloon And The Box Office

Tigerfeathers! • 15 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. PictureTime is using inflatable cinema theatres to bring movies to rural India, where traditional cinemas are rare. This makes it possible for more people to enjoy films without traveling long distances.
  2. The company's founder, Sushil Chaudhary, believes that cinema is a basic need after basic necessities are met. His goal is to make movies more affordable and accessible in all parts of India.
  3. Despite challenges from the pandemic and the film industry, PictureTime has adapted by also providing structures for emergency medical care. Now, it's expanding to set up more permanent theatres as the demand for cinema grows.

Recommendations II

Nice Try • 99 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Resequencing albums can change how you experience them. For example, swapping tracks on 'Let It Bleed' can create a better flow and make it feel more like a complete piece of art.
  2. Taking your time with long books is important. It's not about how fast you read but how much you engage with the material. Marking notes can help deepen your understanding.
  3. Not all movies about famous artists hit the mark. Some, like the Van Gogh biopic, might not do justice to their subjects, even if they have good performances or interesting ideas.

Disaffected watch party today

Disaffected Newsletter • 59 implied HN points • 19 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. There will be a watch party today at 3 pm Eastern. It's a chance for subscribers to join and enjoy a show together.
  2. The show being featured is the mini-series 'Feud: Bette and Joan'. It's about two famous actresses clashing during the decline of old Hollywood.
  3. The link to join the watch party is available below the paywall for subscribers only.

The best of The Rectangle in 2023

The Rectangle • 113 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The author reflects on their favorite pieces from The Rectangle in 2023
  2. The focus is more on lesser-known pieces rather than the most popular ones
  3. Topics covered include YouTube time-stamping, digital memory, and a deep dive into Elon Musk
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Is "The Brutalist" a Holocaust Film? An Architecture Film? Is This "Masterpiece" Even Much of a Film?

Gideon's Substack • 35 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The film 'The Brutalist' is criticized for its heavy-handed writing and lack of real character depth. The characters often feel more like symbols than real people.
  2. Despite being praised for its visuals, the film fails to convey a genuine sense of place or energy in its settings. It does not fully explore the historical context it claims to represent.
  3. Many viewers feel the film treats serious subjects like the Holocaust and American identity in a superficial way. This reduces the experiences of the characters to mere symbols rather than meaningful narratives.

Comic-Con 2025 Is Over. If You Weren’t There, You Missed BIG!

$5.vc • 1 implied HN point • 17 Jan 26
💥 Comics Film
  1. Comic‑Con shifted from trailer hype to live, context‑rich reveals where studios show execution and direction through exclusive footage and reactions.
  2. Video games became core culture and a primary source of cross‑media IP, with developer panels and community conversations driving Hollywood collaborations and a single‑player resurgence.
  3. Fandom and indie creators are now steering the industry, forcing real-time debates about AI, ownership, credit, and representation while grassroots IPs and unexpected collaborations gain major traction.

Sinners Review

The Carousel • 16 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The movie 'Sinners' is bashed for being a total mess and not making sense. It mixes too many ideas poorly, leading to an unclear story and characters.
  2. There's a strong criticism of the film's approach to racism, suggesting it presents white people as bad without a solid storyline. This creates confusion rather than a meaningful message.
  3. The review expresses frustration that big-budget films like this can be made without proper quality control, making audiences wonder why they even go to see it in the first place.

Good Fortune (2025)

The Author Is Dumb • 3 implied HN points • 30 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The film 'Good Fortune' tackles serious issues like wealth inequality and the gig economy through a comedic lens. It explores how two very different characters learn about each other’s struggles in a hyper-capitalist world.
  2. Despite the comedic elements, the film ends with a message that feels disconnected from its main themes. It suggests a simplistic view of complex issues like capitalism, which can leave audiences unsatisfied.
  3. Dystopian themes creep into everyday life disguised as normality. Even when things seem fine on the surface, there are deeper, troubling realities that can make life feel like a form of a dystopia.

Type of Guy studies; MAGA misfit toys; Adorno on the Mangiones; An old-time boss's farewell to politics

Unpopular Front • 35 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The author is excited about their book receiving recognition, appearing on several year-end best lists, which they didn't expect.
  2. They discuss the relevance of the film 'Taxi Driver' and encourage listeners to check out a screening of 'Ronin', highlighting its quality as a thriller.
  3. For those interested in art, fashion, and culture, the author recommends checking out a Substack called 'Selling Out' by Natasha Stagg.

Welcome to DOC NYC

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Attending film festivals can provide inspiration for new projects, especially when you see how different filmmakers tackle similar issues like climate change and culture.
  2. Protecting indigenous cultures and ways of life is crucial, as modern influences can threaten their traditions and connection to the land.
  3. Wealth is often measured by generosity and community support rather than money, highlighting the importance of sharing and helping one another.

American Upanishad

Covidian Æsthetics • 28 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. David Lynch's work is seen as a deep reflection on life and existence, similar to ancient philosophical texts. His storytelling encourages us to look beyond the surface and embrace ambiguity.
  2. The themes of good and evil in Lynch's projects suggest that they are intertwined and originate from the same reality. Understanding their relationship can change how we perceive our own experiences.
  3. The character dynamics, especially in 'Twin Peaks,' reveal complex emotional and metaphysical struggles, showing how personal trauma can affect broader narratives of family and destiny.

Down the Rabbit Hole ...

Through the Looking Glass • 39 implied HN points • 17 Jan 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Film
  1. This blog explores the blending of art, cinema, and physics to create meaning for viewers.
  2. Blogs provide a platform for learning, growth, and sharing knowledge publicly.
  3. The movie 'Blade Runner 2049' uses specific colors to convey different emotions and themes like loneliness and distress.

Audio Dispatch for Paid Subscribers(5)

The Joyous Struggle • 19 implied HN points • 22 Oct 23
🎙 Podcasts Film
  1. The post discusses being out of London, feeling confused, being filmed, and preparing for New York City.
  2. The post includes links to various relevant resources and upcoming events mentioned in the audio dispatch.
  3. There is an opportunity for readers to access the full post archives with a 7-day free trial of The Joyous Struggle.

Meeting David Lynch on the Dreaming Plane

Gideon's Substack • 26 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Movies can feel like dreams, and David Lynch's films especially tap into that dreamlike quality. They connect deeply with our subconscious and show us the hidden layers of life.
  2. Lynch's storytelling often blurs the line between dreams and reality, making us question our perceptions. This can be both enchanting and confusing, as seen in films like 'Mulholland Drive.'
  3. Experiencing a film should be a shared connection, not just an analysis. It’s valuable to remember that movies are meant to evoke feelings and experiences, not just be puzzles to solve.

Death of Stalin

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 06 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. People often focus on small issues instead of looking for bigger opportunities. It's important to see the bigger picture instead of just fighting over tiny matters.
  2. The culture in some workplaces can be similar to the fear-based leadership seen in the film The Death of Stalin. Employees may feel pressured to please their bosses instead of being genuine.
  3. Workplaces that have strict quotas or high-pressure environments can lead to competition among coworkers, making it hard to build strong team bonds. This can create a feeling of isolation instead of teamwork.

Recs III

Nice Try • 59 implied HN points • 13 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Using randomness can make discovering new music fun and interesting. By choosing albums randomly, you can explore various genres that you might not usually listen to.
  2. Reading big books slowly lets you enjoy them more. Taking your time with a classic novel, like 'Middlemarch', can enhance the experience and lead to interesting conversations with others.
  3. Creating an edited version of the Bible for personal study can help grasp its important themes. It’s a unique way to understand the core stories across religions while making it easier to digest.

Perfect Days.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 66 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Film
  1. The movie 'Perfect Days' explores finding beauty in the everyday moments, emphasizing the importance of living in the present and appreciating the small details around us.
  2. Creativity is about connecting dots in new ways, as showcased in the process behind the film and how it surprises in an AI-driven world.
  3. The film highlights the contrast between modern digital life and traditional analog elements like cameras, film, and cassette tapes, urging a deeper connection with the present moment and our surroundings.

Autism and the critic in me

The Author Is Dumb • 1 implied HN point • 11 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Discovering ADHD and autism can explain why someone might not emotionally connect with movie characters, so they legitimately experience films differently than most people.
  2. A critic often watches a film as a 'hyperobject'—seeing the filmmaker’s body of work, historical and social context, and technical choices all at once—which gives a broad, analytical perspective.
  3. That analytical distance is a strength, so the plan is to lean into long-form film criticism and focus the newsletter on reviews and essays, while still doing occasional fiction and other projects.

Why do publishers and film studios come up with new material?

Logos • 19 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Many people believe that publishers and film studios create new material because audiences prefer something fresh. However, it might just be that studios think new things sell better, even if there are timeless classics people still love.
  2. People are naturally drawn to innovative styles and effects in films and books. But it's important to remember that a good story can shine regardless of whether it uses modern techniques or classic styles.
  3. Marketing also plays a big role in why new works get more attention. Stars and buzz around new releases can draw audiences in, but classic works could also gain popularity if promoted better.

Bobbsey Twins

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 16 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Documentary work often uncovers unexpected stories that don't fit into the main narrative. These side experiences can leave lasting impressions and enrich the overall understanding of the subject.
  2. The lives of the physicist's family members reflect contrasting lifestyles, showing both simplicity and complexity in relationships. Even with a famous father, personal struggles shaped their identities significantly.
  3. Community and connection can provide a sense of belonging, illustrated by the lively porch gatherings. The joy and camaraderie in these moments highlight the importance of social interactions in life.

Reading, Watching 11.17.24

Unpopular Front • 28 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. There's a split in how people view the middle class in America. Some see it as people who work hard for what they earn, while others think it should be about helping each other and building community.
  2. Many Trump voters still hold middle-class values, even if they feel left out. They believe having a job is important and look down on those who need government help.
  3. Hegel's ideas show a contrast between being self-centered (bourgeois) and being focused on the greater good (citoyen). It relates to how people balance their personal needs with their responsibilities to society.

Doppelgängers

The Leftovers • 59 implied HN points • 20 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The concept of doppelgängers and the doubling of the self in the age of social media is explored through works like 'Silvia Prieto' and 'Lejana'.
  2. Encountering a doppelgänger can challenge one's sense of uniqueness and lead to varied reactions, from curiosity to avoidance.
  3. Literature, like the story 'Lejana' by Julio Cortázar, delves into themes of encountering one's double and the eerie connections that may unfold.

"Now is the Most Important Time"

SatPost by Trung Phan • 58 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Being present and focusing on the now is a common theme among successful individuals like Jensen Huang, Cillian Murphy, Michael Jordan, Jerry Seinfeld, and Oprah Winfrey.
  2. Living in the present moment and minimizing rumination about the past or worries about the future is key to achieving goals and success.
  3. Although the concept of 'now is the most important time' may seem generic, it holds value in helping people stay focused and achieve their aspirations.

To All The RomComs I've Watched Before

Holodoxa • 39 implied HN points • 17 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. RomComs are beloved for their predictable yet endearing plots, performances, and lighter tone.
  2. Scott Meslow's book discusses the rise and fall of Romantic Comedies, highlighting their comeback in adjusting to new cultural and economic contexts.
  3. The RomCom genre faces challenges due to shifts in the entertainment industry towards franchise-focused and blockbuster films, impacting the traditional mid-level theatrical releases that once thrived.

Meet the teen who tried watching 'The Lorax' every day for a year

The Rectangle • 113 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. A teenager attempted to watch 'The Lorax' every day for a year but had to stop due to declining mental health.
  2. The pressure of internet audience can impact creators, causing some to continue despite personal struggles.
  3. It's important to remember there's a real person behind online content, and to prioritize mental well-being over online commitments.

Five Times I Sided with the Bad Guys in Movies

I Might Be Wrong • 8 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Sometimes, the characters we see as villains might actually be in the right, and we need to rethink who we cheer for in stories.
  2. Breaking contracts or laws can have serious consequences, and it's important to consider the implications of those actions in both fiction and real life.
  3. Characters that seem like 'bad guys' might represent qualities like strength or assertiveness, which can challenge traditional views about morality.

The World Is Wrong, Vol. 2: Who is "The Hudsucker Proxy" For?

I Might Be Wrong • 9 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The Coen brothers make unique films that don't follow Hollywood trends. It's surprising they managed to keep their careers going in such a formula-driven industry.
  2. The Hudsucker Proxy, though a box office failure, is praised for its humorous and clever writing. It targets a niche audience that enjoys old-school humor and rapid-fire dialogue.
  3. Enjoyment of Hudsucker is based on personal taste, especially for those who love jokes over storylines. While it didn’t connect with many viewers, it holds a special charm for some.

Barbie (2023)

Kvetch • 79 implied HN points • 01 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Barbie represents the idea that women can be anything
  2. The movie critiques traditional gender roles in a satirical way
  3. The film explores themes of growing up and societal expectations through Barbie and Ken's characters

Mastering the Alchemy of AI Storytelling

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 2 implied HN points • 21 Nov 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Film
  1. A six-week hands-on seminar teaches you how to create polished AI short films, giving practical tools like prompts, camera grammar, sound design, and a finished project to release.
  2. The program pairs technical training with ethics, philosophy, and somatic practices so creators learn to use AI responsibly, covering appropriation, attribution, and the social impact of viral media.
  3. It runs Jan 11–Feb 15, 2026 with live sessions and recordings, offers tuition tiers (including a $500 early-bird rate and a $1500 advanced option with one-on-one coaching), and provides scholarships and clear IP terms.

Doing what gives you goosebumps

Austin Kleon • 99 implied HN points • 08 Oct 21
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. Doing what excites you can lead to great experiences. It's important to pursue things that give you goosebumps.
  2. Stay open to your creative urges. Sometimes, you don’t even have to believe in yourself; just follow where your interests take you.
  3. Creating freely requires a safe space. You can't truly express yourself if you feel watched or judged.

COMING SOON: Comancheria

Kvetch • 50 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The rise and fall of the Comanches as a people with their own unique culture and history, and how they clashed with other civilizations over vast lands in violent tribulations.
  2. The portrayal of the Comanche people in the historical epic _Comancheria_ will be morally complex, with a mix of heroes, villains, and grey areas, similar to other historical dramas like _Vikings_.
  3. The outlined episodes for the show _Comancheria_ will cover the rise of Comancheria, conflicts with other groups, interactions with historical figures like Robert Neighbors, Buffalo Soldiers, and events like the Chivington Massacre, providing a detailed and encompassing view of the Comanche history.

Is "A Real Pain" a Holocaust Film?

Gideon's Substack • 19 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. The film 'A Real Pain' explores family connections and personal pain rather than focusing solely on the Holocaust experience. It highlights how the characters are motivated by their relationships, especially their bond with their grandmother.
  2. It questions the idea of generational trauma by showing that the characters deal with their struggles in their own ways, suggesting that their issues are common to many people and not uniquely linked to their grandmother's past.
  3. The film intentionally avoids heavy themes of Jewish trauma related to the Holocaust, instead subtly emphasizing the importance of living and connecting in the present, which can be just as significant.

John Carpenter suspends natural law until the end of October

Meaningful Particulars • 65 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Film
  1. John Carpenter's horror movies explore the theme of the absence of reasons, creating terror by challenging beliefs about reality and identity.
  2. Horror can work on three levels: gross-out, horror, and terror, with terror being the most powerful as it creates fear in the imagination.
  3. Carpenter's films, like Lovecraft's stories, confront the idea of a horrifying, incomprehensible universe, emphasizing the terror of the unknown.

Orson Welles as Falstaff on Late Night TV

Castles in the Sky • 15 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film
  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.