My Affair with Bad and Good Movies

Nov 27, 2024 at 8:00 AM
I've always been known for my connection with bad movies. They are the very foundation of my career and my life. It's no surprise that my website is filled with articles about these cinematic flops, along with trash pop culture and people. But don't be fooled; I have a deep love for movies in general. They have been a source of escape and inspiration since my childhood, when I would dream in the dark.

My Immersion in Movie History

I have a rich history with movies. I had the privilege of staying at Robert Evans' house, and Roger Ebert even compared my memoir to Dostoyevsky. There was a spiritual awakening during my viewing of "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure" that led me to realize I wanted to make movies my life. I take great joy in watching bad movies, writing about them, and sharing them with an audience that shares my affection for cinematic trash.However, my love for great movies is just as strong. I admire Martin Scorsese as much as Tommy Wiseau. In some ways, I believe Scorsese is a greater and more important filmmaker. I'm also obsessed with both "Billy Jack" director Tom Laughlin and Preston Sturges.

Reigniting My Love for Film

Writing "The Fractured Mirror", my upcoming book on American movies about filmmaking, has reignited my passion for film. During the research process, I fell back in love with some of my all-time favorite movies such as "The Muppet Movie", "Pee-Wee's Big Adventure", "Singing in the Rain", "Sullivan's Travels", and "Sunset Boulevard". This writing and research have rekindled my love for quality cinema and film history. It has shown me the beauty and significance of both bad and good movies in the world of filmmaking.

Finding Balance in Cinema

While bad movies hold a special place in my heart, great movies have a way of captivating me in different ways. Martin Scorsese's masterpieces take me on a journey through different eras and emotions. Tommy Wiseau's "The Room" may be a cult classic, but it also represents a unique aspect of cinema. Tom Laughlin's "Billy Jack" and Preston Sturges' films each have their own charm and storytelling prowess. It's this balance between the two that makes the world of cinema so diverse and exciting.We can learn from both bad and good movies. Bad movies can teach us about the pitfalls of filmmaking and what not to do, while good movies inspire us with their creativity and artistry. Each type of movie contributes to the rich tapestry of cinema and helps us appreciate the medium on a deeper level.