The hottest Film Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics

What I've been reading to understand the election, a pure-escapist stupid slapstick comedy, and four new tracks I like

Read Max • 974 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Comedy Music Politics
  1. Reading is important for understanding current events, like the election. Articles and columns can provide valuable insights.
  2. Sometimes, it's good to escape and have fun. Watching a silly comedy can be a great way to lighten your mood.
  3. Discovering new music can bring joy. Listening to fresh tracks can be a fun experience and help you find new favorites.

Screw You Guys, I Root For Muad'Dib

Freddie deBoer • 8446 implied HN points • 06 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Critique Fandom Characterization
  1. In the Dune universe, the writer roots for Paul Atreides despite knowing it won't end well
  2. The Dune 2 movie is praised for being a meticulously crafted, popular film with excellent cast and stunning visuals
  3. Despite the warnings about not rooting for Paul due to the themes of the story, the writer still finds him and his rebel army cool and follows Muad'Dib passionately

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.

Exact revenge

Austin Kleon • 5415 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Books Film Music Art Literature
  1. January can feel slow and heavy for many. If you're struggling to start the year, consider waiting until February to tackle your resolutions.
  2. Year-end lists are fun and help discover new books and movies. Checking out these lists can inspire new reads and viewings for the new year.
  3. Creative works can offer deep insights. Books and essays that explore big ideas, like life's meaning or creativity, can be really rewarding to dive into.

UX Roundup: Film Festival | AI Therapy | AI Radiology | AI Creative Writing | Grok 3

Jakob Nielsen on UX • 13 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Health tech Creative Writing Film Usability
  1. AI technology has made significant strides in creative fields, like filmmaking, showcasing impressive work at events such as the AI Film Festival. Artists are using AI to create stunning visuals and stories, pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
  2. Research indicates that AI can perform on par with human therapists in couples therapy. Although AI therapy is cheaper and more accessible, many people still prefer human interaction due to trust and emotional connection.
  3. AI has demonstrated higher accuracy than human radiologists in medical diagnoses, particularly in breast cancer detection. This advancement has the potential to reduce workloads for doctors and improve early detection rates, highlighting AI's growing role in healthcare.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

An archival detective story and other links; a great, stupid action espionage TV show; and more!

Read Max • 711 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Literature Film Music Television
  1. There are interesting links including a detective story and articles on sports gambling and hustle culture. They cover both fun and serious topics.
  2. A recommended spy show is described as 'great' and 'stupid', suggesting it's entertaining and light-hearted.
  3. An album of Armenian-influenced electronic music is highlighted, indicating a diverse taste in music.

More of what I'm reading about the election, a masterpiece "erotic thriller," and four songs I'm digging

Read Max • 816 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Music Film Art Media
  1. There's a collection of interesting reading material about the election that can help understand what's going on.
  2. A unique 'erotic thriller' book is recommended, noted for its dreamy qualities and great music rather than typical thriller elements.
  3. Four cool songs are also highlighted, showing a mix of various forms of entertainment to enjoy.

A Tiny Juggler on a Big Screen

Animation Obsessive • 1614 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Illustration Film Storytelling
  1. The story of 'The Juggler of Our Lady' explores feelings of hopelessness through a juggler who tries to find his place in the world. It's a tale that many can relate to, especially during tough times.
  2. R. O. Blechman created this work in a short time, drawing from his own experiences of feeling out of place. His unique style and personal connection helped make the story really special.
  3. The animation industry is facing challenges, like the recent wildfires in Los Angeles affecting many workers. It's important to help those in need during these difficult situations.

Ripe on Time

Seven Senses • 1718 implied HN points • 23 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Film Education
  1. It's okay to bloom at your own pace, just like flowers. Some people find their talents early, but many discover them later in life too.
  2. Having a nurturing environment helps talents emerge, but sometimes life events push us to explore our creativity when we least expect it.
  3. It's never too late to follow your dreams or discover new passions. Many successful people achieved their greatest milestones later in life, showing that persistence is key.

The nervous system

Austin Kleon • 5195 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Film Parenting
  1. Starting a 31-day challenge now can help you get ahead instead of waiting for the new year. Making commitments regularly can lead to personal growth.
  2. Children are companions in life, not just projects. It's important to share experiences and life with them rather than just focusing on goals.
  3. It's frustrating to wait for new episodes of your favorite shows. Waiting can feel especially hard when you're looking forward to something exciting.

Like a ghost went through me

Austin Kleon • 6774 implied HN points • 06 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Film Education
  1. John Green learned he has aphantasia, which means he can't create mental images. This shows how different our brains can be.
  2. Wes Anderson recreated Roald Dahl's writing shed, highlighting the importance of creative spaces for writers. It's neat to see how environments can inspire artistic work.
  3. Joseph Grigley's art exhibit features notes he collected during conversations. It reminds us of the challenges of communication, especially for those with hearing loss.

The Ideology of the Dangerous Female

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1458 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Society Gender Narrative Mythology
  1. The 'Dangerous Female' concept explores how women can be seen as powerful or chaotic forces in society. It's interesting to think about the balance of power between genders.
  2. In the 2024 film 'Nosferatu,' women are portrayed as summoning dark, ancient powers. This adds a layer of complexity to the narrative about femininity and danger.
  3. The film suggests that men often fail to recognize or stop these chaotic forces from women. It raises questions on awareness and the dynamics in gender relationships.

Sam Tanenhaus's Buckley; Marcel Ophuls; More on MacIntyre; DOGE's price in blood

Unpopular Front • 32 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Philosophy History Art
  1. Sam Tanenhaus's biography of William F. Buckley is considered a must-read. It offers a deep look at a key figure in American conservatism with engaging writing.
  2. Marcel Ophuls's documentary 'The Sorrow and the Pity' changed how France views its history during World War II. It reveals that many collaborated with the Nazis instead of resisting.
  3. A recent critique of MacIntyre's views argues that moral progress is possible through conversation and shared values, rather than just searching for a single goal in life.

Then and Now: Stop Motion

Animation Obsessive • 2152 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Animation Art History Film Media
  1. Stop motion animation has been around for over a hundred years. It involves taking photos of objects in small movements to create the illusion of motion.
  2. The '50s and '60s were a golden age for stop motion, and we're seeing another rise in popularity in the 2010s and 2020s.
  3. People appreciate the handcrafted look of stop motion compared to digital animation. It has unique qualities like texture and imperfections that make it special.

It’s the 349th Day of January

Hung Up • 2908 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Film Entertainment
  1. The post is about January 2024 and the author's movie watching experience.
  2. The author watched the movie "Postcards from the Edge" as the first movie of the year and loves it.
  3. Readers can access more content with a 7-day free trial subscription.

Pyrotechnics and Play

Animation Obsessive • 1704 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Japanese culture Visual Arts Creative Process
  1. Atsuko Fukushima is a talented Japanese animator known for her unique and playful style in various anime projects, including well-known films like Akira. Her work shines with energetic and whimsical animation.
  2. Fukushima's notable projects include the opening sequence of Robot Carnival and the short film Genius Party, showcasing her dynamic approach to animation. Both works, while different in tone, represent her signature style of bright visuals and lively motion.
  3. Throughout her career, Fukushima has contributed to both mainstream and independent anime, illustrating her versatility and creative spirit in the animation industry.

Publish your enthusiasm

Austin Kleon • 5755 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Film Creativity
  1. Sharing your excitement can be really powerful. When you show your enthusiasm, it inspires others too.
  2. Reading a good book can transport you to another world. Dive into your favorite stories for a little escape and joy.
  3. Engaging in creative activities like drawing or painting is rewarding. They combine thinking and pleasure, making it enjoyable and satisfying.

Late autumn is lit!

Austin Kleon • 3636 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Food Music Film
  1. Late autumn is a wonderful time for bike rides and enjoying the changing leaves. It's a nice reminder to take advantage of the season's beauty.
  2. Shopping for the holidays can be stressful, but planning ahead and seeking out specific gift guides can make it easier. Consider gifts that reflect the recipient's interests, like books or food-related items.
  3. Year-end lists can be a great resource for discovering new movies and music. Checking out critics' favorites can help you find something cool to enjoy during the holiday season.

How They Made 'Where the Wild Things Are'

Animation Obsessive • 1524 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Literature Art
  1. Gene Deitch was a skilled artist known for adapting children's picture books into animated films, particularly the beloved 'Where the Wild Things Are.'
  2. Deitch saw adapting Maurice Sendak's picture book as a monumental challenge, comparing it to climbing 'Mount Everest' in the literary world.
  3. The process of transforming books into films requires a unique approach and understanding of the source material to resonate with audiences.

barbie didn't direct itself

Airplane Mode with Liz Plank • 2535 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Film Gender Awards Diversity Entertainment
  1. The lack of Oscars nominations for the Barbie movie highlights gender bias in the film industry
  2. Only eight female directors have ever been nominated in the 95-year history of the Academy Awards, showing a significant gender disparity
  3. The success of the Barbie movie, despite lack of recognition, shows the industry's need for change and the importance of celebrating female creators

Make an appointment with yourself

Austin Kleon • 4376 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Film Comics Photography
  1. Making time for yourself is important, and you should commit to it like an important appointment. It's easy to forget self-care in our busy lives, but it can greatly improve your happiness.
  2. Creativity is essential to many artists, and being away from their art can hurt their well-being. Finding ways to create regularly can help maintain a good quality of life.
  3. Explore new books, music, and films to inspire creativity and reflection. Engaging with different forms of art can spark new ideas and perspectives.

Be a good date

Austin Kleon • 4656 implied HN points • 18 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Film Philosophy
  1. Being a good date means being someone others want to spend time with, including your readers. It's important to engage and connect with them.
  2. Reading can be a rewarding experience, no matter the book. Discovering new insights from familiar writers, like Vonnegut, can be very fulfilling.
  3. Sharing interests or experiences, like music or art, can create a sense of nostalgia and connection with others. It's great to revisit things that made you happy in the past.

It’s trying to tell you something

Austin Kleon • 4356 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Philosophy Film
  1. Writer's block can mean something important and may guide your creative process. It's worth paying attention to what your mind is telling you when you feel stuck.
  2. Understanding the impact of literature and quotes in our lives can help us grow. Reflecting on classic works can lead to deeper insights about ourselves and our experiences.
  3. Art is about pushing culture forward. Engaging with different artistic expressions can inspire personal and collective growth.

Being Unrealistic

Animation Obsessive • 1524 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Visual Arts Cultural Studies Creativity
  1. Cinema Fantasma, a stop-motion studio in Mexico, started with a big dream and little money. The founders had to get creative, making their own animation tools and props from scratch.
  2. The studio began on a rooftop in Mexico City, showing the dedication of the Ambriz brothers and their family. They transformed their home into a workspace to achieve their goal of creating a top-quality animated film.
  3. The making of 'Revoltoso' was a learning experience for everyone involved. The animators were new to the craft but worked hard to develop their skills for this project.

When Japanese Animation Cracked the Oscars

Animation Obsessive • 6099 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Creative industry Influence
  1. Japanese animation made a significant impact at the Oscars when 'Spirited Away' won in 2003, marking the full acceptance of Japanese animation into Hollywood's mainstream.
  2. Koji Yamamura's film 'Mt. Head' brought Japanese independent animation into the spotlight, showcasing a unique style and storytelling approach that influenced a new generation of animators globally.
  3. The animation world mourned the passing of Akira Toriyama, a legendary manga artist known for 'Dragon Ball,' whose work has had a lasting impact on global animation and storytelling.

The Rise of the Theater Kids

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 310 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Theater Film Music Pop culture Media
  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.

Fix Your Hearts or Die!: A Short Ode to David Lynch (RIP)

Counter Craft • 910 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Tribute Media Music
  1. David Lynch was a visionary artist whose work greatly influenced American cinema and television. His shows and films changed how we think about storytelling in media.
  2. Lynch blended different tones in his art, mixing horror with humor and beauty. This combination made his work feel real and relatable.
  3. Even in death, Lynch's legacy lives on through his art, which captures the complexity of life and human emotions. His stories remind us of the beauty and mystery of existence.

Barbie Answers Oppenheimer

Culture Study • 9015 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Film Gender Society Entertainment Art
  1. Oppenheimer is a classic Christopher Nolan film with a focus on the masculine world and a lack of interest in women's narratives.
  2. Hollywood often caters to a male-centric audience, but Barbie challenges this norm by offering a matriarchal world where women hold power.
  3. Barbie's success signals a hunger for diverse perspectives in cinema, contrasting with the typical white male-centered narratives in Hollywood.

I don’t want to be the best

Austin Kleon • 4915 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Film Comics
  1. Laziness can sometimes lead to more discipline. It's interesting how they can connect in unexpected ways.
  2. Reading apps like Libby and Hoopla have made it easier to discover new books, but it's concerning when access gets restricted for younger audiences.
  3. Midlife crises can be transformative opportunities, so rather than seeing them as negative, we should embrace the change and potential they bring.

11 Best Things of 2024

SatPost by Trung Phan • 164 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Books Podcasts Music Memes
  1. The film industry is relying too much on sequels and spin-offs, leading to a lack of creativity. New stories like 'The Wild Robot' bring freshness and are needed more than ever.
  2. Nuclear threats are still a serious concern, and many people are complacent about it. A book about a potential nuclear war highlights the urgent need for communication between world leaders to prevent disaster.
  3. Taking time to create special memories with loved ones is important. A personal trip to Paris with family shows how meaningful experiences should not be postponed.

Waiting to be thrilled

Austin Kleon • 3437 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Media Music Film
  1. It's interesting to define yourself by what you won't do. This can help clarify your values and beliefs.
  2. While technology can be helpful, it's okay to be cautious about it. Asking questions and being skeptical can lead to better understanding.
  3. Taking time to enjoy great books can be fun, and sometimes you just need a little trick to get started.

‘Looking Forward’: A Brief Film for Our Times.

Breaking the News • 1141 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Art Media Documentary Creativity
  1. The film 'Looking Forward' combines AI and real-world footage to highlight the contradictions of our time. It's a unique mix that encourages viewers to think deeply about today's world.
  2. It has a hopeful message about how we face challenges, showing that optimism and pessimism can exist together. This balance is important for understanding our current situation.
  3. The film is not just informative but also visually impressive, making it enjoyable to watch. It features interesting moments that capture the audience's attention.

What Didn't Get In

Animation Obsessive • 1614 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Illustration Art history Film
  1. Katsuhiro Otomo is well known for his detailed storyboards, and many of his early works are now available to view online for the first time.
  2. Mary Blair's seldom-seen artwork related to Disney films has been shared, showcasing her unique style and contribution.
  3. An interview with animator Tony White reveals more insights and stories from his work in animation, adding depth to understanding his projects.

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.

Not knowing is the first step

Austin Kleon • 4016 implied HN points • 21 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Comics Film
  1. Sometimes not knowing what you're doing can be a part of the creative process. Even famous artists admit they often don't have everything figured out.
  2. Books can be powerful tools for dealing with loss. There are new releases that focus on saying goodbye and exploring difficult emotions.
  3. Documentaries can be really enjoyable when they're well-made. The recent Wham! documentary shows how good editing can make a story more engaging.

Curator of Secrets

Vague Blue • 579 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🎭️ Culture Reading Music Film Art Literature
  1. On June 13, a live Substack reading will feature secrets shared anonymously by various readers, creating an intriguing event to look forward to.
  2. Critics have discussed the intricate relationship between tennis, desire, and sexuality portrayed in the film 'Challengers', emphasizing the thematic depth beyond surface eroticism.
  3. The book 'Community Garden for Lonely Girls' by Christine Shan Shan Hou is described as a surreal, sensual collection worth exploring for its unique and engaging content.