Shelf Criticism

Shelf Criticism

por Stephen

Artes escénicas Televisión y Cine

Temporada 2

Beside My Shelf - Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie's Island Adventure

In this special bonus episode of Shelf Criticism, Stephen takes a harrowing journey into the ill-advised world of made-for-TV sequels with Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure. Armed with his signature wit and scholarly insights, Stephen unpacks this cinematic misstep, exploring its threadbare plot, baffling production choices, and the unfortunate misuse of comedic legends like Ed Asner and Eric Idle. Beyond the main feature, the episode also delves into the Shelfless Endeavors segment, where Stephen reviews three standout films: the delightful French romantic comedy Anaïs in Love, the screwball drama Anora, and the steamy yet tastefully crafted Babygirl. With his keen eye for storytelling and visuals, Stephen highlights what made each of these films shine, offering a palate cleanser after the rancid experience of Cousin Eddie’s escapades. Tune in for a mix of humor, analysis, and cathartic critique as Stephen wraps up the holiday season and sets the stage for his year-end review in the next episode. Whether you’re a fan of cinematic flops, arthouse gems, or anything in between, this episode has something for everyone—except, perhaps, the makers of Christmas Vacation 2.

Temporada 1

"We're in a Franchise": Scream VI

The special bonus episode of Shelf Criticism no one asked for but everyone wanted, Stephen dives into the latest installment of the Scream franchise, Scream VI. With a mix of nostalgia and critical analysis, Stephen reflects on the series' long-standing impact on his love for cinema and film studies while taking a close look at the latest offering. Despite Neve Campbell's absence and the controversies surrounding some cast departures, Scream VI delivers a gripping addition to the Ghostface legacy, though it may not reach the heights of its predecessors. Expect insights into the standout performances, plenty of trivia, and Stephen’s personal ranking of the Scream films. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the franchise or just a lover of horror, this episode has something for everyone. And, as always, get ready for some witty observations, DVD details, and a tease for what’s to come in the world of Shelf Criticism.

"All Hail the Queen": Rogue

In this latest episode of Shelf Criticism, Stephen takes us on a wild ride with Rogue (2020), the Megan Fox-led action-thriller featuring a deadly lioness and a group of mercenaries fighting for survival in the African wilderness. Does the film manage to pull off the suspense and action, or does it fall prey to some seriously bad CGI? Stephen breaks down the film’s environmental message, its place in the animal-attack genre, and how it compares to other lion-centric thrillers like The Ghost and the Darkness. From bad accents to questionable character arcs, this episode has it all—topped off with a discussion of how well Megan Fox holds her own as a hardened mercenary. Plus, Stephen offers his usual deep dive into the DVD’s special features and cover art. Is this one worth adding to your shelf, or is it best left in the wild?

"Revelation and Revulsion": The Lords of Salem

In this episode of Shelf Criticism, we dive into Rob Zombie’s 2012 film The Lords of Salem, a surreal blend of witchcraft, nightmares, and unsettling visuals. Join us as we explore the film’s haunting atmosphere, its meticulously crafted imagery, and how it flirts with the line between traditional horror and more nuanced, intellectual storytelling. From the diegetic score to the film's bold color palette, we look at the elements that make Lords of Salem stand out in Zombie's filmography, while pondering the subtle nods to Greek tragedy, and yes, even Peter Greenaway. Is it elevated horror or just pure chaos?

"Actually, I'm Just a Friar": Van Helsing

In this episode of Shelf Criticism, Stephen dives into the monster mash that is 2004’s Van Helsing. Hugh Jackman stars as the iconic monster hunter in a film packed with Dracula, Frankenstein’s monster, werewolves, and over-the-top action sequences. It’s a love letter to Universal’s classic monster films—or at least, that’s what it aims to be. Stephen explores the movie’s frenetic pacing, its campy tone, and how the film embraces spectacle over substance. He also shares a personal story about his dinner with the late film scholar David J. Skal, who had strong opinions on the film's breakneck speed and manic energy. Though Stephen admits Van Helsing isn't a good film by critical standards, he defends it as a fun, brain-off popcorn flick perfect for the Halloween season.

"Just Glass and Silver": Mirrors

In this episode of Shelf Criticism, Stephen goes deep into the reflections of Alexandre Aja’s Mirrors (2008). He explores how this film stacks up against Aja’s other work, what the Splat Pack brought to the horror scene, and why Mirrors is an oddball in the bunch. Stephen also shares some interesting trivia (jaw prosthetics, anyone?) and gives his final shelf rating for this eerie tale. Did he mention he watched the unrated version?

"Relax, It's Just Urine": Orange County

Wax up your board and grab your copy of Marcus Skinner's Straight Jacket. This week, we're cruising up the PCH to Orange County. A beloved film in his cabinet, Stephen turns a critical eye to this comedy to determine whether this quotable flick holds up to academic rigor or is a throwaway flash in the pan of early-aughts cinema. Discussions of camera movements, nepo babies, and misuse of literary allusion abound. Join us this week for the 2002 film Orange County.

"The Water Goes Outside the Boat": Into the Blue

In this episode of Shelf Criticism, Stephen dives into the 2005 tropical thriller Into the Blue. Known for its breathtaking underwater cinematography, Jessica Alba in a bikini, and Paul Walker perpetually shirtless, the film has often been dismissed as a shallow Hollywood spectacle. But is there more lurking beneath the surface? Stephen revisits the film, exploring whether it’s just an extended swimsuit calendar or if it holds genuine suspense and storytelling merit. Spoiler alert: It’s better than you remember, but maybe not by much. As mentioned, check out the site for Shark Angels.

"Taken by a Shark": Sirens

Our peerless host was, frankly, getting a little tired of having to discuss nudity and sexual content so often, but, as luck of the draw would have it, Sirens emerged from his sea of DVDs and called to him. Join him as he delves beneath the surface of this 1994 film starring Hugh Grant, Tara Fitzgerald, Sam Neill, and Elle Macpherson. He explores some of the symbols and motifs, discusses the setting, critiques the acting, and, yes, has a few things to say about the film's copious amount of flesh on display. See where this little artsy drama gets placed on the shelf.

“Immaculate Canvas”: The Break-Up

In this episode of Shelf Criticism, Stephen navigates the turbulent waters of The Break-Up, a film that tries to subvert the romantic comedy genre but ends up leaving audiences divided. Delving into its mixed critical reception, Stephen explores how the film's attempt at an "anti-romantic comedy" both falls flat and intriguingly undercuts expectations. The discussion includes personal anecdotes, a critical analysis of the film's narrative flaws and strengths, and a cultural context that examines the waning popularity of romcoms as well as their potential resurgence. Also, surprisingly little discussion of nudity this time.

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