David Blakeslee
David, Richard, and James continue their conversation about Black cinema of 1973, focusing on a Blaxploitation classic featuring a funky James Brown soundtrack and charismatic Fred Williamson in the title role.
Podcasts
Criterion Reflections – Episode 144 – Mel Stuart’s Wattstax
David is joined by Richard Doyle and first-time guest James Merritt to talk about this engaging concert/documentary featuring Isaac Hayes, Richard Pryor, The Staples Singers, and an all-star cast of Black musical...
Criterion Reflections – Episode 143 – Fernando Di Leo’s The Boss
David is joined by Richard Doyle as they dive into the mafia-infused milieu of Italian poliziotteschi cinema via this trilogy-concluding whirlwind of mayhem, betrayal, and revenge.
Criterion Reflections – Episode 142 – Luchino Visconti’s Ludwig
David provides a video overview of Visconti's maligned late career masterwork and extends his coverage in a conversation with Brad McDermott
Criterion Reflections – Episode 141 – Roberto Rossellini’s The Age of the Medici
David revisits the TV miniseries that attempts to recreate the cultural milieu of 15th century Florence in this first episode of Season 5: 1973.
Criterion Reflections – Intro to Season 5: 1973
A brief video introducing the newest phase of my long-running project to review every Criterion film in chronological order of original theatrical release!