The Importance of Dear Friends in “The Perks of Being a Wallflower”
Stephen Chbosky’s 1999 novel “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” was something of an anthem for introverts. Over a million high schoolers and former high schoolers identified with the book, … Continue reading
Summer Love and Identity in “Tomboy”
Moving is an emotional experience, especially for a 10-year old. Thin and petite Laure and her mischievous 6-year-old sister are packed up by their parents over the summer and moved … Continue reading
Historical Artifact, Powerful Reminder: “The Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975”
In the late 1960s, several curious Swedish television journalists travelled to the United States to examine the growing unrest in the young democracy. Like contemporary Tocquevilles, they captured the growing … Continue reading
Blood, Corpses, and Heart in “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil”
Tucker and Dave are two of the nicest hillbillies you’ll ever meet. They’re hairy and speak with not-quite-right grammar, but they have a knack for being kind, hospitable, and generally jovial … Continue reading
In “Weekend,” A Morning After Aches to become a Happily Ever After
Amidst the strobe lights and electric pop in an English gay bar, two men catch each other’s eyes. One is Russell, a timid lifeguard with a stubbly beard and round … Continue reading
Love is “Easier with Practice”
NC-17 is a film rating reserved for the raciest of films. But a 2009 independent film earns this badge of inappropriateness not for what we see, but for what we hear. … Continue reading
Chicago Culture Vulture 