Dive deep into the eerie and enchanting world of folk horror with this week’s episode of Shelf Criticism, where we dissect the 1973 classic, The Wicker Man. Join me, Stephen, as I explore the film's rich tapestry of sultry tunes, mysterious rituals, and the unforgettable performance by Britt Ekland. Discover why this film is considered a foundational piece of the folk horror genre alongside insights into its unique cinematic techniques, characterization and plotting. And, fear not, there is only a passing mention of that abomination of a remake. NOT THE BEEEEEEEEEES!! MY EYES!

Why let the fellows in the Frat Pack have all the fun? In this episode, we give the ladies a chance to let loose as we dive into the 2011 comedy Bridesmaids. Join us as we explore this groundbreaking film that redefined female-led comedies and brought us unforgettable characters like Annie, Lillian, and the hilarious Megan, played by the incomparable Melissa McCarthy.

We'll discuss the film's clever writing, standout performances, and the iconic scenes that made it a modern classic. From the unforgettable airplane meltdown to the infamous food poisoning incident, Bridesmaids is a riot of humor and heart. But it's not all laughs; we'll also critique some of the film's pacing issues and discuss whether the cameo by Wilson Phillips--NOT Wilson Pickett--hits the right note.

Join us for Shelf Criticism.

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Get out your boogie shoes and "put your weight on it!" Get prepared to "attack the wack!" Leave all hopes for logical plot progression and verisimilitude at the door. We're serving up the beats and the action in this 1979 Blaxploitation masterpiece.

Dive into the enigmatic world of David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive in this episode. Described as a masterful blend of psychological thriller and neo-noir, this film is an intricate tapestry of Hollywood dreams and nightmares. We peel back the layers of its complex narrative, exploring the duality of its characters and the surreal twists that challenge our perceptions of reality.

Join us as we discuss how Lynch plays with the concepts of identity and aspiration in the neon-lit underbelly of Los Angeles. We’ll analyze the standout performance by Naomi Watts, whose portrayal adds depth to this bewildering puzzle.

Mulholland Drive is not just a film; it's a study in the art of cinema that questions the line between life and artifice. From its haunting opening to its ambiguous conclusion, the film remains a profound commentary on the nature of fame, fortune, and the film industry itself.

Whether you're a longtime Lynch fan or new to his work, this episode promises to offer fresh insights and thoughtful analysis. So, tune in as we attempt to decode one of the most fascinating films of the 21st century.

Kick off your journey through 'Shelf Criticism' with a dive into the haze of the classic stoner comedy, Pineapple Express. In our debut episode, Stephen breaks down the high points and the lows of this cult favorite, exploring what makes it a standout in the genre. Get ready for laughs, unexpected insights, and plenty of cinematic trivia as we light up the first disc of our eclectic DVD collection.