The Fifth Element is loud, strange, and completely confident in its own weirdness. This review looks at why the movie still works decades later: the energy, the phenomenal costumes, the sincerity underneath all the craziness. From Bruce Willis playing it as low-key as possible to Milla Jovovich turning innocence into power, it’s a film that commits. Wildly imaginative and impossible to mistake for anything else, it’s the kind of sci-fi that reminds you how fun big swings can be.

We continue our Luc Besson retrospective with Léon: The Professional (1994), a film that turned a hitman into a pop-culture archetype and remains one of the most debated thrillers of the 1990s. Host John Mills is joined by Darren Moser to dig into Besson’s precise visual control, Éric Serra’s melancholic score, Thierry Arbogast’s stylized cinematography, and the film’s complicated emotional core.

In this episode of Houselights, we begin our retrospective of Luc Besson's work from the 90s with "La Femme Nikita." We examine the film's stylistic impact and its role in reshaping the action-thriller genre. While the movie serves as a genre blueprint, we also touch on its narrative inconsistencies and character development challenges. Join us as we explore the film's influence and its place in cinematic history.

In this episode, we walk slowly but carefully into Kathryn Bigelow's Oscar-winning film, "The Hurt Locker." We explore the film's gripping portrayal of the Iraq War, its intense cinematography, and the nuanced performances by Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackie. With a mix of admiration and critique, we discuss the film's lasting impact and its place in cinematic history. Whether you're a fan of war dramas or just curious about what makes this film a standout, this episode offers a thoughtful analysis that will leave you with a new appreciation for Bigelow's work.

In this episode of Houselights, we navigate through Kathryn Bigelow's "K-19: The Widowmaker," focusing on its technical brilliance and narrative challenges. We discuss the film's claustrophobic cinematography, the nuanced performances of Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson, and the historical context that frames this gripping submarine drama. While the film excels in its technical execution, the emotional connection with the characters remains elusive, leaving us with a complex yet compelling cinematic experience.

Wire into the dystopian world of Kathryn Bigelow's "Strange Days" with our latest review. We explore the film's ambitious narrative, technical wizardry, and its reflection of 90s societal angst. From groundbreaking POV shots to its complex themes, this episode unpacks why "Strange Days" remains a compelling watch.

Join Houselights as we explore "Point Break," Kathryn Bigelow's 90s cult classic that blends extreme sports with high-stakes heists. With Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze leading the charge, this film is a thrilling ride of surfing, skydiving, and philosophical musings on freedom. Discover why this action-packed spectacle remains a beloved piece of pop culture.

​In this episode, we review Kathryn Bigelow's 1990 thriller, "Blue Steel," where Jamie Lee Curtis shines as a rookie cop entangled in a psychological battle with Ron Silver's unnerving antagonist. We critique the film's narrative structure, character development, and Bigelow's evolving directorial style, offering insights into both its strengths and missed opportunities. Join us for a thoughtful analysis of this intriguing yet imperfect cinematic piece.

In this episode of Houselights, we explore Kathryn Bigelow's "Near Dark." Join hosts John, Darren, and Tristan as they delve into the film's unique blend of vampire, western, and punk rock genres, discuss the performances of its ensemble cast, and examine its cult status and technical execution. Discover how "Near Dark" set the stage for Bigelow's illustrious career and why it remains a fascinating piece of 80s cinema.

A towering classic of Hollywood’s Golden Age, The Ten Commandments (1956) remains one of the greatest epics ever made. In this episode, we explore Cecil B. DeMille’s monumental vision, Charlton Heston’s iconic performance, and the timeless spectacle that continues to part the cinematic seas.