“Film as dream, film as music. No art passes our conscience in the way film does, and goes directly to our feelings, deep down into the dark rooms of our souls.” — Ingmar Bergman

 

A favorite image is a primal one: sitting in a darkened theatre watching a story unfold under the spotlight on the stage is akin to ancestors under the night sky in front of a fire, participating in the storytelling by the tribal elder or shaman. There’s a link for you.

Today’s filmed stories, on screens large and small, can be high art or escapist entertainment. I like both. I also like the stories behind the story, conveniently available as featurettes on DVDs.

I’ll be sharing opinions, memories and suggestions. Consider this an open invitation to join the dialogue by commenting on the individual posts and sharing your favorites.