Amazon has graduated to hourlong dramas. Chris Carter of "X-Files" fame is creating the pilot "The After," while the Harry Bosch detective books provide inspiration for another. As with previous Amazon pilots, with customers will vote on whether they live on as series on the Amazon Prime service. Pencil it in as a landslide for Carter's new … [Read more...]
Archives for October 2013
A trio of Halloween treats from Criterion
When it comes to classy horror, everything looks better in black in white. See "Dr. Caligari." "Psycho." "Vampyr." "Night of the Living Dead." "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." ... And "Eyes Without a Face." Georges Franju, director of that French horror classic, once was asked why he preferred his chills in black and white. He pointed to … [Read more...]
‘The Substance’: LSD’s long strange trip
"High" on LSD doesn't quite cover it. The hallucinogenic drug provided such a mind-altering experience that almost all users of the 1960s swore off the stuff, sooner or later. Mostly sooner. As a social phenomenon (and widespread social problem), LSD's run lasted only a few twisted years in the 1960s. But its influence lingers, like some … [Read more...]
Family plot for Netflix
Netflix and Sony Pictures TV are in the family way. The streaming media provider has exclusive rights to a new original drama from the creators of FX's acclaimed "Damages." It's billed as "a suspenseful family drama" kicking off with 13 episodes. The deal, which is exclusive in Netflix's coverage areas, is the first the streaming media … [Read more...]