Glazed Cinema

Directed by John Ford and released in 1956, The Searchers is a one of the greatest films ever made by a cinematic master. Following two men, Ethan Edwards and Martin Pawley as they embark on a search for Ethan's only surviving family member, his niece Debbie after she's capturing by Native Americans in a raid that killed her family. A movie with a lot of layers, complexity, and visual beauty, it's one of my favorites and a movie worth experiencing for yourself.

Directed by Roy Ward Baker and released in 1958, A Night to Remember is a film that tells the tragic tale of the R.M.S. Titanic. Based on a novel by Walter Lord of the same name, the film takes a respectful approach to the subject with honesty and care. It is widely respected and its influence can still be felt to this day. 

Directed by Marc Forster and released in 2006, Stranger Than Fiction follows a tax auditor named Harold Crick through a unique moment in his life. A moment defined by a voice, narrating his actions, thoughts, and feelings. A wonderfully layered film, it's an experience I enjoy watching often and one worth pressing play on.

Directed by Steve James and released in 1994, Hoop Dreams follows two young basketball players named Arthur Agee and William Gates. From the eighth grade to college we see their basketball careers develop and what life on and off the court is like for a player scouted from a young age, trying to realize a dream. One of the best documentary films ever made, Hoop Dreams is a must-see for any film fan and a great accompaniment to March Madness.

Directed by Marjane Satrapi and released in 2007, Persepolis is a film based on a graphic memoir of the same name. Using animation inspired by the illustration style of the book, it uses a mix of stark black and white and vibrant color to unfurl its plot. With themes of identity, perseverance, and courage it's an emotionally gripping and poignant tale we can all take something from and an experience well worth your time. 

Directed by Leontine Sagan and released in 1931, Madchen in Uniform follows a teenage girl named Manuela who enters an all-girls boarding school. As she makes friends and learns the rules of the strict school,  she soon develops a crush on a young female teacher. A movie boasting an impressive number of firsts in cinema, it opened a lot of doors for women and the LGBTQ+ community in film.

Directed by George Tillman Jr. and released in 1997, Soul Food follows a family in Chicago, whose ties that hold them together begin to come loose when the matriarch, Big Momma Joe, falls ill. Ahmad, the youngest plans to bring them together again to strengthen their ties with a tried and true solution, the Sunday meal. A story that celebrates the complexities and bonds of family, it's a great pick for the Thanksgiving holiday and a reminder that love conquers all.

Directed by Barbara Kopple and released in 1976, Harlan County USA is a documentary about a coal mining strike, called 'The Brookside Strike'. Showing empathy toward the workers, protesting we get a glimpse of what it means to be a coal miner in Harlan County at that time. Documenting many aspects of the strike, Harlan County USA is an important historical document about labor and human rights.

Directed by Peter Medak and released in 1980, The Changeling is a horror film that brings a fresh look at the haunted house genre. With an eerie atmosphere, fantastic acting, and an intriguing story, it's sure to keep you on your toes. It's a multi-dimensional horror film filled with frights, surprises, and great moments sure to entertain you during the spooky season of the year.

Directed by Benjamin Christensen and released in 1922, Häxan is a film about the history of witchcraft. Acting like a film essay that blends documentary and fiction, it results in an experience uniquely its own. Banned shortly after its release for depicting controversial content, its history is a rocky one. At 100 years old, Häxan packs quite the punch and is a silent era wonder.