R.I.P. Michael Ballhaus (1935-2017)

Michael Ballhaus

On April 11, 2017, cinematographer Michael Ballhaus passed away at the age of 81. Through is career spanning almost 60 years, he helped to create some of the most memorable films from collaborators Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Mike Nichols, and most notably with Martin Scorsese. His work has created some of the most gorgeous and innovative films in cinema history, including the famous tracking shot in Goodfellas. He lives behind an impressive and expansive body of work that more than speaks for itself. He inspired many to copy his often gorgeous and cryptic style, and it's quite an impressive legacy to have. 

Theory Thursday: Winona Ryder is Underrated

Winona Ryder in Stranger Things

Welcome to a weekly column called Theory Thursdays, which will be released every Thursday and discuss my "controversial opinion" related to something relative to the week of release. Sometimes it will be birthdays while others is current events or a new film release. Whatever the case may be, this is a personal defense for why I disagree with the general opinion and hope to convince you of the same. While I don't expect you to be on my side, I do hope for a rational argument. After all, film is a subjective medium and this is merely just a theory that can be proven either way. 

Francis Ford Coppola Announces That His Next Film May Be His Last

Francis Ford Coppola

Depending on your personal stance, director Francis Ford Coppola created some of the best cinema arguably ever. Among his many achievements includes the indomitable classics such as The Godfather, The Godfather Part II, The Conversation, and Apocalypse Now. His achievements not only impacted cinema, but changed the way that many saw the medium. In a recent interview as part of the Marrakech International Film Festival, he gave some big news regarding his career and the work of one of his former collaborators George Lucas. What he said may not be life changing, but definitely will come as a surprise for long term fans of the director.

The Directors Project: #13 - Francis Ford Coppola

Scene from Cinema Paradiso

With the many lists and essays written on the subject of film, there has been one thing that The Oscar Buzz has tried to understand: Who is my favorite of the film world? For 10 weeks this summer, I will be exploring this with a countdown of the Top 50 names based on a numerical ranking of ratings from various sources, the following is a list of directors who rank above everyone else. With occasional upsets, this is intended as both a discussion opener as well as a better understanding of me as a film critic and fan. Please enjoy and leave any comments you have regarding the entry's selection.