Giallogy: The Psychic

I love giallo movies. I tend to watch them in bunches, like when I recently plowed through The Psychic, aka Seven Notes in Black (1977), Puzzle, aka The Man Without a Memory (1974), and Black Belly of the Tarantula (1971). Gialli offer an intoxicating blend of glamorous women, gorgeous Italian (or other gorgeous European) locales, … Continue reading Giallogy: The Psychic →

Lost and Found: Firecracker

Firecracker (1981), also known as Naked Fist, is another in a long line of 1970s and 1980s cheapies shot in the Philippines by producer Roger Corman. Directed by Corman regular Cirio H. Santiago—who also helmed one of the most memorable rape-revenge films of the ‘80s, Naked Vengeance (1985)—Firecracker mostly works as a starring vehicle for … Continue reading Lost and Found: Firecracker →

Batman Returns is a Christmas Miracle

Spending Christmas in Gotham City is an annual tradition for diehard fans of Batman Returns (1992). I have to watch the movie sometime in December—and often several times this month—and nothing brings me more Yuletide spirit than the most gloriously bizarre and unapologetically kinky superhero movie ever made. Tim Burton and screenwriters Daniel Waters and … Continue reading Batman Returns is a Christmas Miracle →

Hot Shots of the Week: Gotham City’s Ice Princess

“The tree lights up, and then I push the button. No-no, wait, wait, wait, wait. I press the button and *then* the tree lights up...” It wouldn’t be the holidays without the delightfully ditzy Ice Princess from Batman Returns (1992)—played brilliantly by Cristi Conaway—lighting up Gotham City’s Christmas tree. As cinematic dumb blondes go, she’s … Continue reading Hot Shots of the Week: Gotham City’s Ice Princess →

Hot Shots of the Week: Susie’s Audition

When our girl Susie Diamond sings “More Than You Know” during her audition with the Baker Brothers, jaws dropped across the globe. Jack and Frank were wowed, and so were audiences. It’s still a moment that sends shivers down my spine. She closes her eyes, purses those seductive lips, and seemingly transports to another plane … Continue reading Hot Shots of the Week: Susie’s Audition →