From time to time, there is a recognizable level of laziness in big budget films. Some amplify their dollars properly and it shows on the screen, clear…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: The Reckless Abandon of Lake Michigan Monster Shows Creative Commitment”

There is an anonymous saying connected to the idea of hospitality that states “hospitality is making your guest feel at home, even if you wish they were.”…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Summerland Grows an Honorable Heart With Hospitality”

Stature is something that can sell movie tickets. This was especially the case for the cinematic offerings of the 1990s. A picture could be a hit on…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: First Knight Trades Magic and Myth for Romantic Longing”

The expression of “holding court” may have historical roots with convening judges and members of royalty, but, make no mistake, actors can fit that idiom as well.…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Catherine Deneuve Defines Holding Court in The Truth”

You know, I don’t have a cleaner or nicer way of making this starting point. Criminals are f**k-ups, plain and simple. If they were smart, they would…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Killing Them Softly Shows What Criminals Really Are”

Get On Up, the 2014 film from The Help director Tate Taylor breaks away from a good chunk of the formula and cliche pitfalls that beset biographical…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Get On Up Separates Itself From the Biopic Formula”

This is going to sound unsophisticated in rhetorical philosophy, but we weren’t really meant to wear shoes everywhere we go. Our animalistic roots used to have us…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Dirt Music Lacks the Sung Binder For Its Sorrow”

When it comes to the myth of immortality, the sweeping sentiments of Queen from the Highlander soundtrack say it best. Their song poses it as a pair…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Theron Fights for Forever in The Old Guard”

When you confront the title of Sam Raimi’s 1995 western tribute The Quick and the Dead, you are met with foreboding biblical allusions. Referencing 2 Timothy 4:1…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: The Quick and the Dead: A Playful Bullet Between Your Eyes”

There’s something to be said for a film that can constantly exude tautness. Some films will have stress and pressure, but not convey those traits with true…… Read more “New from Don Shanahan on 25YL: Greyhound Exudes Authenticity and Tautness”