#Cinematic Journey

[frank-olivier]

Everyday Poetry: Jonas Mekas’s Cinematic Celebration of Life

Jonas Mekas, a Lithuanian-born artist, left an indelible mark on the world of cinema through his films and his unwavering support for independent and experimental filmmaking. His life, shaped by the traumas of World War II and his subsequent journey to America, fostered a unique artistic vision that celebrated the beauty of everyday life through a deeply personal lens. This documentary explores the rich and complex life of Jonas Mekas, as seen through the eyes of his daughter, Oona, who offers an intimate portrayal of her father's impact on cinema.

Mekas's early years were spent in a small Lithuanian village, where he was born in the shadow of war in 1922. The horrors of World War II left an enduring imprint on his life, including his time in a Nazi labor camp. These experiences would later influence his artistic sensibilities, shaping his profound appreciation for the simple joys of life. After the war, Mekas, along with his brother Adolfas, found their way to the United States, and it was here that his passion for cinema ignited. The acquisition of a 16mm Bolex camera marked the beginning of his lifelong dedication to the art form.

Mekas's initial contributions to the film world were significant, especially his role in promoting independent cinema. He co-founded the groundbreaking film magazine "Film Culture" in the 1950s, offering a vital platform for experimental and independent filmmakers. His column "Movie Journal" in the "Village Voice" introduced readers to the vibrant underground film scene, featuring artists like Andy Warhol, Kenneth Anger, and Jack Smith. Mekas's writing advocated for artistic freedom and emphasized the importance of personal, independent cinema.

However, it is in his own films that Mekas's unique artistic voice truly shines. His approach to filmmaking was diaristic, capturing moments from his life and transforming them into intimate cinematic poetry. His works are often described as "cinema diaries," and his most celebrated films include the epic "Walden," a six-hour journey through his life in New York City, and "Lost, Lost, Lost," a collection of diary films spanning decades. Mekas's style is characterized by experimental techniques, such as handheld camera work and innovative editing, which he employed to create emotionally powerful imagery.

Oona Mekas's story begins with her childhood, immersed in her father's artistic world. Cameras were a constant presence, capturing intimate family moments. This early exposure to her father's creative process laid the foundation for her deep understanding of his art and her involvement in his projects.

The documentary introduces Jonas Mekas as a central figure in Oona's life and the world of cinema. He is portrayed as a charismatic and influential artist who founded the Anthology Film Archives, a sanctuary for independent and classic films. Mekas's dedication to preserving and showcasing cinema as an art form is evident in his establishment of the preservation department at the archives.

Oona shares her personal and professional relationship with her father. She reflects on the challenges and rewards of working with Jonas, known for his unique artistic vision. Her insights into their marriage and its dissolution provide a personal perspective on the complexities of being closely tied to a renowned artist.

The later years of Mekas's life brought personal changes, including divorce and a move from the family home. This period also marked a shift in his artistic focus, as he explored new avenues such as exhibitions and installations, presenting his work in innovative ways. These years brought international acclaim and awards, solidifying his status as a respected artist and filmmaker.

Oona's perspective on her father's work is a central theme. She views his films as poetry, capturing the beauty and emotion of everyday life. Mekas's ability to transform personal experiences, including his wartime traumas, into art is a recurring motif in her reflections, and this transformation of the ordinary into the extraordinary is what makes his work so compelling.

This documentary is a tribute to Jonas Mekas, his life, and his artistic legacy. Through his daughter's eyes, we see a man who found beauty in the simple moments of life and transformed them into powerful cinema. Mekas's influence on the film world is immense, from his advocacy for independent cinema to his groundbreaking personal films. His legacy continues to inspire filmmakers to explore the medium's potential for personal expression and the celebration of life's profound yet ordinary moments, turning them into cinematic poetry.

Fragments of Paradise - The Jonas Mekas Story (K.D. Davison, 2022)

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

[theomenmedia]

Is "Babylon" An Underrated Masterpiece?

"Babylon" might have bombed, but Margot Robbie believes it's destined for greatness. Is this film the next 'Shawshank Redemption'?

[ajadedlens]

“𝙄𝙣 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙙𝙤𝙬, 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙪𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙨; 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙛𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩, 𝙖 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙤𝙢.” - 𝙈𝙤𝙞

𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝘆 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝘆 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗡𝗶𝗸𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗲. 📷🎞️

𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗿𝗯𝗮𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗵𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗺 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗺𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘆𝗺𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗲𝘀.

[youtubevideopromotion]

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Sri Lanka as we embark on a cinematic journey through seven of its most captivating destinations. From the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the historic Galle Fort, each location tells a unique story of culture, history, and natural splendor. Join us on this mesmerizing adventure, where every corner is a canvas, and every moment is a brushstroke in the masterpiece of serendipity. For more visit here

[gitzette]

Step into the world of glamour, passion, and iconic tales with Sofia Coppola's cinematic masterpiece. Dive deep into the Priscilla Presley biopic – a film that brings to light the untold stories behind the legend. Discover the intrigue, the love, and the complexity of Priscilla's life alongside Elvis. A story so captivating, it deserves more than a look. Your heart will skip a beat. Don't miss out on this exploration. #PriscillaPresleyBiopic

[awesomengers]

Hey there, fellow movie enthusiasts! If you’ve been following my cinematic journey, you probably caught my earlier blog, “The 15 Best Movies I Watched in 2023.” Well, buckle up because we’re not done yet! Today, I’m diving deeper into my personal favorites from that glorious year of film magic. These aren’t just critically acclaimed or box office hits; they are the movies that left an indelible…

[etherblog-surrealist-nexus]

Unveiling the Layers: Exploring the Untold Story of Sensitivity in the Captivating Film 'Sensitive - The Untold Story

Jonathan Cohen, who contributed to my book let me know about this amazing documentary and accompanying book which delves into the world of the highly sensitive. Embark on a cinematic journey with ‘Sensitive – The Untold Story,’ a groundbreaking documentary that delves into the intrinsic trait of high sensitivity, prevalent in 1 in 5 individuals and observed across 100 diverse species. This…

[esonetwork]

An Introduction To Film Noir | Earth Station One

New Post has been published on https://esonetwork.com/an-introduction-to-film-noir-earth-station-one/

An Introduction To Film Noir | Earth Station One

In the back alleys and dark shadows of the golden city of Tinsel Town, lives a genre of desperation, seduction, temptation, and brutality that all fall under the label Film Noir. Mike, Mike, Roby Levy, and Nick Frasier serve up their favorite sexy, smoky, and sour cinematic concoctions from the classic era to current. Plus, Angela’s A Geek Girl’s Take, Ashley’s Box Office Buzz, Michelle’s Iconic Rock Moment, and Shout Outs!

We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at feedback@earthstationone.com and subscribe and rate the show on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, wherever fine podcasts are found, and now we can be found on our own YouTube Channel.

Links The Earth Station One Website Earth Station One on Apple Podcasts The Earth Station One YouTube Channel Earth Station One on Spotify Past Episodes of The Earth Station One Podcast Angela’s A Geek Girl’s Take Ashley’s Box Office Buzz Michelle’s Iconic Rock Talk Show Film Noir Foundation TCM Noir Alley Modern Musicology Louder than War Monsterama

Promos Tifosi Optics Epsilon Three Cosmic Pizza The ESO Network Patreon Unique Crafts by Jenn ESO Network Tee-Public

If you would like to leave feedback or a comment on the show please feel free to email us at feedback@earthstationone.com

[wellhealthhub]

What are your top ten favorite movies?

Cinematic Marvels: Igniting Your Dreams with the Top Ten Inspirational Movies Embark on a captivating journey through the realm of cinema’s most inspiring tales. Discover how these films transcend entertainment to become life-altering experiences. From the perseverance of “The Shawshank Redemption” to the magic of “The Green Mile,” learn how each story unlocks your inner champion. Unleash your…

[theshitpostcalligrapher]

please tell me this manga/comic/show exists i do not wanna have to make it

okok I've posted about this before but I'm watching animation content on youtube again while getting work done and by GOD I WANNA TALK ABOUT THIS AGAIN

There's a specific concept I want to consume as content/art so badly but it came to me in a stupid dream. BUT. Sometimes, a dream means I DID see a hint of it somewhere and my brain accidentally plagiarized it which provides me with the teensiest sliver of hope that exists already and I don't have to work on it

It's a kind of a reverse isekai, right? But instead of an instant portal, it's time passing. And what I mean by that is that it's a Sun Wukong story, but the branch off is that after the main events of Journey to the West he gets either water temple'd or trapped in magic sleep again, not for a few hundred years but a few THOUSAND.

He wakes up to an incredibly far-flung China that remembers his myth and only his myth.

The art style that operated in this dream was sort of. Textured but 3D? Think nimona's buttery lighting but instead of emphasis on light and shapes to operate with the stained glass and solarpunk-medieval style the models are textured in a way that just invokes traditional brushwork and colour bleed even in a more cyberpunkish setting. Think like. Whenever there's a night scene the astigmatism glow of lamplight bleeds a little, like ink feathering on paper.

It's a little bit of a Steve Rogers treatment in a way, the world has moved past him, but also completely mythologized and capitalized on that mythology. Rather than treat that man out of time narrative as an aspect of backstory, it's the MAIN character narrative, because this ISN'T a world that needs him. This world is doing pretty okay, actually.

This a story about him.

Not about his feats or how cool his powers are or the 8 gajillion things the magic staff can do but just.

How ya doing, bud?

From the vaguely coherent notes that I could garner from my sleepily typed googledoc, it seems that I wanted this to be a love letter of sorts to the Asian diaspora experience? A specific sort of loneliness? Where the world you experience has a sort of disconnect in that it makes plain you belong there but you also don't, you never have, and there's no way to go "back" but going forward feels like groping blind through the muck. How much right to the past does he feel like he has? When it's been built into something he can't recognize and is clearly important to other people.

I want the pickup of the plot to gain him friends, family, maybe even a conflict or two but the stakes should never elevate vis a vis physical enemies to battle.

It'd be about 2/3 of this sort of narrative drawn story and the other 1/3 just hogwild worldbuilding and design

I've looked at a few other journey to the west adaptations but they mainly just use him as a funky lil action figure hero that's there to be cool as hell and save the day

99% likely this is just a thing my brain is made up and I'd need a several million budget and about 25 additional skills to start the ball rolling but hey, worth it to ask yall again

[shambelle97]

LOKI - TV SERIES / SEASON ONE | FAN ART | (2021)

‘Open your eyes’ painted by me, on the iPad 🎨

Art by: Dame_Deviant

[mhevarujta]

At the end of Nosferatu (2024) Ellen is supposed to stare at Orlok in reckoning and in victory. Thrice is the idea of Ellen redeeming her city through consummating herself mentioned. She makes a redemptive sacrifice and yet she and women like her cannot ultimately exist in this society. Such women can only find peace in death.

When Eggers explores a genre or adapts a story, he's a purist and I LOVE his purism to an extent. I love his attention to detail, to historical accuracy, his interest in the occult and in people's real beliefs. The authenticity is part of what makes his movies so good. At the same time I feel that in terms of the feminist themes in Nosferatu (2024) Eggers is just one more man who chose to tackle female sexuality but does the bare minimum and calls it a day. But he STILL wants to have an answer to the critique that he KNOWS he will receive. He is very aware of the problems and tries to sugar-coat the outcome by giving Ellen this 'power' and 'peace' but he still chooses to not engage with them on a deeper level.

In choosing to adapt Nosferatu his love for the genre and the motifs simply exceeded his regard for the themes. While he was very much aware of the existence of A LOT of literary criticism about endings like the very one he chose to maintain, he just went ahead and found feminist critique that is not as critical of the motif to be able to have a ready answer that gives SOME validity to his decision. This feels like a very performative approach to me.

[theomenmedia]

10 Highest Rated Emma Stone Films Of Her Career So Far

Celebrating Emma Stone's cinematic journey on her 36th birthday! Dive into her top 10 films on IMDb and see why she's Hollywood royalty.

Check out the full list right here: https://www.theomenmedia.com/post/emma-stone-at-36-celebrating-a-career-full-of-cinematic-excellence

[watchnrant]

Daisy Johnson: Marvel’s Hidden Powerhouse Deserves the Spotlight

Daisy Johnson, better known to some as Quake, is one of those Marvel characters who, despite being packed with potential, often flies under the radar. With her complex backstory and incredible abilities, Daisy stands out as a character who could easily take center stage in the Marvel Universe. Yet, despite her many contributions to various teams and storylines, she remains one of Marvel’s most underappreciated heroes.

The Origin of a Seismic Hero

Daisy Johnson’s story begins with her debut in Secret War #2 (2004). Born to the supervillain Mr. Hyde and a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, Daisy inherited more than just a complicated legacy — she developed seismic powers that allow her to generate powerful earthquakes. These abilities immediately set her apart, making her one of the most formidable characters in Marvel’s roster. But Daisy isn’t just another hero with an impressive skill set; she’s a trained S.H.I.E.L.D. operative, a force to be reckoned with in her own right.

Throughout the years, Daisy has proven herself time and time again. As part of the Secret Warriors, she worked directly under Nick Fury, handling threats that required the utmost discretion and skill. For instance, her leadership during the “Secret Warriors” storyline showcased her strategic mind and ability to navigate complex missions, yet these moments often didn’t get the spotlight they deserved. Similarly, her role in the “Avengers: Standoff!” storyline, where she played a crucial part in resolving the conflict, further cemented her status as a key player. However, despite these significant contributions, Daisy’s moments of glory have often been overshadowed in the broader Marvel narrative.

The Missed Opportunity in Marvel Comics

What’s frustrating about Daisy’s journey in the comics is how often she’s been pushed to the sidelines. Despite her vast potential, Daisy is often cast as a supporting character — a powerful ally who steps in during crises but rarely takes the spotlight. This is particularly disappointing when considering the rich narrative possibilities that come with a character like Daisy.

Her seismic abilities alone could easily be the focus of epic battles or catastrophic events. Imagine a storyline where Daisy’s powers are central to averting a global disaster — her seismic waves could be both the cause and solution, adding layers of moral complexity to her actions. Coupled with her experience as a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, Daisy has everything needed to take on leadership roles in high-stakes missions that blur the lines between espionage and superheroics. Unfortunately, these opportunities are rarely explored, leaving Daisy in the shadow of more mainstream characters.

Learning from Marvel’s Success Stories

To understand how Daisy Johnson could transition from a supporting role to a leading one, it’s useful to look at other Marvel characters who have successfully made this leap. Take Carol Danvers, for instance. Originally introduced as Ms. Marvel, Carol underwent a significant evolution to become Captain Marvel, eventually rising to prominence as a symbol of strength and empowerment within the Marvel Universe. Her journey from a secondary character to a leading figure in both comics and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a testament to what can happen when a character’s potential is fully realized.

Similarly, Natasha Romanoff, who started as a supporting character in Iron Man 2, grew into one of the Avengers’ central figures, both in the comics and films. Her story arc, filled with complexity and depth, transformed her into a beloved and central figure in the MCU. These examples illustrate that with the right narrative push, characters like Daisy Johnson can ascend from the background to become vital parts of the Marvel Universe.

A Star in the Marvel Cinematic Universe

The contrast between Daisy’s treatment in the comics and her portrayal in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) couldn’t be more stark. In Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Daisy, portrayed by Chloe Bennet, is not just a side character — she’s central to the show’s narrative. Viewers watch her evolution from a rebellious hacker named Skye into a powerful Inhuman leader, embracing her identity as Quake and becoming one of the MCU’s most formidable heroes.

The show succeeded where the comics have struggled: it recognized Daisy’s potential and gave her a fully developed character arc. She wasn’t just a member of the team — she often was the heart of it, driving the narrative forward with her growth and deepening connection to her powers. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. highlighted what makes Daisy special: her ability to balance her humanity with her extraordinary abilities, and her relentless determination to do what’s right, even when the odds are against her.

Exploring the Future: Where Could Daisy Go Next?

Looking forward, there are numerous ways Marvel could reintegrate Daisy into major storylines, giving her the spotlight she deserves. One possible direction could be to have Daisy lead a new iteration of the Secret Warriors, perhaps in response to a global crisis that requires her unique combination of intelligence, training, and seismic power. This would not only showcase her leadership abilities but also reconnect her with her roots as a S.H.I.E.L.D. operative.

Another intriguing possibility could be exploring the tension between her powers and her sense of responsibility. A storyline where Daisy is faced with a moral dilemma — using her powers at the risk of causing widespread destruction — could add layers of complexity to her character. Such a narrative could challenge her in new ways, forcing her to confront the limits of her abilities and the weight of her decisions.

Why Daisy Deserves More

Daisy Johnson has all the qualities that make for a great Marvel character: a compelling backstory, unique powers, and the potential for significant character development. Her journey from a troubled young woman with a mysterious past to a confident leader and hero is one that resonates with fans. She embodies the struggle between destiny and choice, power and responsibility, in a way that few other characters do.

It’s time for Marvel Comics to bring Daisy Johnson out of the shadows and into the spotlight she deserves. She should be leading major storylines, tackling threats that require her unique blend of intelligence, training, and raw power. There’s no reason why Daisy couldn’t be a central figure in the Marvel Universe, especially given her deep connections to S.H.I.E.L.D., the Inhumans, and the Avengers.

In a universe that’s constantly evolving, with new heroes rising to prominence, Daisy Johnson deserves to be at the forefront. Marvel has a hidden powerhouse in Quake, and it’s time they let her truly shake things up. By giving Daisy the attention she deserves, Marvel could unlock a treasure trove of untold stories, bringing new depth and excitement to their universe. The potential is there — Marvel just needs to unleash it.

FAQs

Who is Daisy Johnson, and what are her powers?

Daisy Johnson, also known as Quake, is a Marvel Comics character with the ability to generate seismic vibrations, effectively causing earthquakes. She is the daughter of the supervillain Mr. Hyde and a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, and she is a highly trained S.H.I.E.L.D. operative.

Why is Daisy Johnson considered underappreciated in the Marvel Universe?

Despite her significant powers and contributions to various teams, Daisy Johnson often plays a supporting role in the comics. She has not been given the same level of prominence or storytelling focus as other Marvel characters, leading her to be somewhat overlooked.

How is Daisy Johnson portrayed in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)?

In the MCU, Daisy Johnson is portrayed by Chloe Bennet in the television series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.. Her character evolves from a hacker named Skye into a powerful Inhuman leader known as Quake, playing a central role throughout the series.

What potential storylines could elevate Daisy Johnson’s status in Marvel Comics?

Daisy could take the lead in a new Secret Warriors team, or she could be involved in storylines that explore the moral and physical implications of her seismic powers. These narratives would provide her with more opportunities to be a central figure.

How does Daisy Johnson compare to other Marvel characters like Carol Danvers?

Like Carol Danvers, who evolved from a secondary character into a leading superhero, Daisy Johnson has the potential to rise to prominence. Both have compelling backstories and unique powers, making them strong candidates for more significant roles in the Marvel Universe.

Why should Marvel Comics focus more on Daisy Johnson?

Daisy Johnson has a rich history, unique abilities, and the potential for deep character development. By giving her more attention, Marvel could explore new storylines and add depth to their universe, appealing to fans who enjoy complex and powerful heroes.

[multicolour-ink]

I think it's worth noting that at the beginning of the Knuckles miniseries, Sonic narrates, "Knuckles, Tails, and I became friends and roommates"; he doesn't say they became "brothers", almost as if it's a repeat of him initially not seeing Tom as his dad

I admit, the fandom has been self indulgent in the whole "movie verse Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles being brothers". But it that really a bad thing?

We know that other versions of Sonic and Tails have a clear brother/family relationship, depending on the context and when they met. Heck, Sonic even calls Tails "little bro" in Sonic Frontiers (the most recent Sonic media). Sadly, Knuckles has not really been portrayed with as close a bond with these two in the games (if it has in somewhere else like the comics, I can't comment as I don't know about it) - so it's really refreshing to see the movie version be literally living under the same roof as them.

And with the whole theme of family running through these movies, can you blame us for putting these three into even more brotherly scenarios?

I also don't necessarily think you even need to address someone as "brother"/"sister" etc in order to see them as family. Just the the fact Team Sonic is living under the same roof and in the same room is enough proof that they are super chill and comfortable with each other.

So with that said, I feel like Sonic does see them as his brothers. Sonic's relationship with Tom is much different compared to the relationship he's built with Knuckles and Tails. Tom is an older guiding hand. Knuckles and Tails are the siblings Sonic never had.

[hjbirthdaywishes]

August 22, 2024

Happy 53 Birthday to Richard Armitage.