FOLLOWING FILMS

In a world where IP reigns supreme, the multiplex is dominated by safe bets and familiar franchises, “Caligula: The Ultimate Cut” emerges as a bold and provocative re-examination of one of the most infamous films in history. Directed by Tinto Brass and released in 1979, the original Caligula has long been mired in controversy, notorious for its explicit content and its turbulent production involving adult film stars and a star-studded cast that included Malcolm McDowell, Peter O’Toole, and Helen Mirren. With the release of this newly re-edited version, audiences are invited to revisit the Roman Empire through an audacious lens that seeks to reconcile artistic ambition with moral outrage. “Caligula: The Ultimate Cut” seeks to reframe the narrative surrounding its titular character, the infamous Roman Emperor Caligula, whose reign was marked by excess, decadence, and brutality. McDowell’s portrayal of Caligula is mesmerizing—a blend of charm and chaos that encapsulates the duality of pow...

Robert Rodriguez’s Mexico Trilogy, comprising El Mariachi, Desperado, and Once Upon a Time in Mexico, is an epic, 11 year in the making, journey that pulsates with a distinctive blend of violence, humor, and Mexican cultural identity. While not a cohesive narrative in the traditional sense, this trilogy shares a common DNA: a hyper-stylized visual aesthetic, a penchant for explosive action sequences, and a love for the mariachi sound. El Mariachi, the trilogy's humble beginning, is a raw, gritty gem. Shot on a shoestring budget, it introduced the world to a young, guitar-toting protagonist wrongly accused of being a ruthless killer. The film’s lo-fi charm is undeniable; it’s a testament to Rodriguez’s ingenuity and resourcefulness. The action is visceral, the characters are archetypal, and the story is simple yet effective. It’s a film that punches above its weight, establishing Rodriguez as a director with a unique voice. With Desperado, the series undergoes a significant transfor...