Gareth’s Picks

Control (2007)

This biopic about Ian Curtis from Joy Division is the first feature length film directed by legendary music video director Anton Corbjin. He actually worked with Joy Division as a photographer so he brings a personal connection to the film. It is filmed in black and white (naturally) which allows for an already depressing story to be even more bleak.  It stars Sam Riley as Mr. Curtis and he does a fantastic job inhabiting the role. It was his first major role. Samantha Morton is also brilliant as his wife.

Available on TUBI

In the Soup (1992)

Another black and white film, this time the marvelous film by Alexandre Rockwell starring Steve Buscemi, Seymour Cassel, and Jennifer Beals.  The cast also includes Stanly Tucci, Sam Rockwell, Jim Jarmusch, Carol Kane, and Debbi Mazar.  It is a comedy about a down and out deluded filmmaker who, desperate to make a movie, accepts money from a crook.  Buscemi is the ultimate Buscemi in this role as the filmmaker and Cassel is charming as ever.

Available on TUBI

Craig’s Picks

Phantom of the Paradise (1974)

Directed by Brian De Palma and scored and starring Paul Williams – this cocaine fueled white hot take on The Phantom of the Opera/Faust/and I don’t know…American Bandstand? is probably supposed to be funny and I guess it is, but it’s also kind of disturbing in that 70s way. It’s worth it just to see The Undead perform “Somebody Super Like You” – KISS owes them a lot of money. Did I mention it was directed by Brian De Palma?

Available to rent on Amazon

Bugsy Malone (1976)

Let’s keep going with this weird trend of the 1970s with Bugsy Malone directed by…Alan Parker – yeah Pink Floyd’s The Wall and Fame! Alan Parker. This a musical about gangsters – but all of the adult parts are played by children, including a young Scott Baio and Jodie Foster. Guess who scored this one? Paul Williams, it was Paul Williams.

Streaming on Kanopy (with your library card!)

And PlutoTV