This Is Not A Film (2011)

01/24/24 • 8 min

In this episode, we explore Jafar Panahi’s daring documentary This Is Not a Film (2011), shot partially on an iPhone and smuggled out of Iran inside a cake. Directed while Panahi was under house arrest, the film captures a single day in his life as he awaits a six-year prison sentence and a 20-year filmmaking ban. More than just a documentary, this profound act of defiance challenges censorship and explores the power of creative expression under political oppression. Tune in for a closer look at this bold, experimental masterpiece!

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Seduced and Abandoned (2013)

In this episode, we dive into James Toback’s Seduced and Abandoned (2013), a must-watch documentary that takes viewers on a wild ride through the high-stakes world of international filmmaking. Join Alec Baldwin and Toback as they navigate the Cannes Film Festival, pitching their dream project to producers, financiers, and legendary directors. Part documentary, part satire, the film offers a sharp, witty commentary on the tension between art and commerce in modern cinema. Tune in for an insider’s look at the movie industry’s deal-making machine!

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The Wizard of Oz (1939)

In this episode, we journey down the yellow brick road to explore the timeless classic, The Wizard of Oz (1939), directed by Victor Fleming. Discover how this pioneering film used Technicolor to transform cinema, captivating audiences with its vibrant visuals. We’ll delve into the iconic transition from the sepia-toned world of Kansas to the dazzling Technicolor of Oz, symbolizing Dorothy’s leap from the mundane to the magical.