Latest news with #Noir
Geek Vibes Nation
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'The Big Heat' Criterion Collection 4K UHD Blu-Ray Review - Vicious Fritz Lang Film Noir Is A Genre Highlight
Noir doesn't get any more hard-boiled than this scorching tale of vice and retribution, a film that finds director Fritz Lang working at the peak of his Hollywood style—stripped to the bone, simmering with outrage, and fatalistic to the core. A tightly wound Glenn Ford stars as a homicide detective whose investigation into a sprawling crime syndicate becomes a shockingly personal, hate-fueled quest for revenge. Costarring an iconic Gloria Grahame as the mink-coated gangster's moll with her own axe to grind, and featuring a supporting cast led by a sensationally sleazy Lee Marvin, The Big Heat hits with raw, unstoppable force. For thoughts on The Big Heat, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required: Video Quality The Criterion Collection presents The Big Heat on 4K UHD Blu-Ray courtesy of a terrific 4K digital restoration by Sony from the 35mm Original Camera Negative and a 35mm Fine-Grain Master Positive. The film is presented in its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio in 2160p Dolby Vision/HDR. The film was released on Blu-Ray twice previously by Twilight Time in 2012 and 2016. Those releases are long out of print, and we have never seen those transfers derived from older masters to make comparisons. What we can confidently say is that this new presentation looks spectacular. The transfer is clear of nearly all potential dust specks and print damage that you might expect from a film of this vintage. And, as expected from Sony, this transfer retains the filmic quality of the picture with fine film grain harnessing a world of detail. The black and white cinematography of Charles Lang is a work of art with smooth gradients and subtle textures in the design elements. The frame presents some exquisite depth to the canvas which gives way to a pleasing sense of scale within the settings. The contrast remains tight and provides valuable improvements in sharpness. With Dolby Vision, black levels are deep without any unwanted nuisances such as digital noise or compression artifacts, and highlights never come up short with blooming. The restoration reveals plenty of textural facets in the clothing and production design. The Criterion Collection will make film noir fans happy with this one. Audio Quality The 4K UHD Blu-Ray disc comes with a lovingly remastered LPCM 1.0 mono track with optional English SDH subtitles. Since this is a noir, you do have many of the hallmarks of the genre such as gunshots, loud outbursts, car engines, and more that transport you into this narrative. Even with all of this at play, there do not seem to be any serious instances of age-related wear and tear such as hissing or popping. This track does everything it needs to guarantee that dialogue comes through clearly. Environmental sounds are conjured well alongside everything else for a consistently good experience. The score sounds great without any shortcomings in the fidelity. Criterion has given this film the thoughtfully preserved audio presentation it deserves. Special Features The Criterion 4K UHD Blu-Ray of The Big Heat includes a foldout pamphlet featuring the essay 'Fate's Network' by author Jonathan Lethem which explores the themes, the work of Fritz Lang, the legacy of the film, and more that is very illuminating. The on-disc special features are as follows: Audio Commentary: A new commentary track from film-noir experts Alain Silver and James Ursini in which they discuss the legacy of the film, how it fits into the career of Fritz Lang, the background of the performers, the impact of the production code, the influence of the producers, and more. The Women of The Big Heat: A new 28-minute visual essay in which critic Farran Smith Nehme dives into the place of women in film noir, how Fritz Lang uses them in his narratives, the different archetypes they occupy, parallels to real-world issues, the performances of the women, and more. Fritz Lang: Two archival audio interviews are provided in which the filmmaker discusses his career, how he views the audience, notable themes that appeal to him, and more. Lang with Bachmann (1956) (16:08) Lang with Bogdanovich (1965) (6:54) Martin Scorsese: A six-minute archival interview with filmmaker Martin Scorsese in which he discusses the impact of watching the film as a kid, the themes of the picture, the visual language of the film, the legacy of the film, and more. Michael Mann: An 11-minute archival interview with filmmaker Michael Mann in which he discusses the influences of German expressionist cinema on the film, how the women stand out in the story, the morality of the feature, and more. Trailer (1:44) Final Thoughts The Big Heat is one of the more vicious film noirs to be released during the Hays Code era, and it stands as one of the best Fritz Lang outings we have seen. The moody cinematography sets the stage perfectly for this dark tale of corruption and revenge. The ensemble is firing on all cylinders from the star power of Glenn Ford to the burgeoning persona of Lee Marvin. This is a prime example of how impactful a good film noir can be. The Criterion Collection has delivered a new 4K UHD Blu-Ray that offers a grand A/V presentation and some marvelous special features. This is a must-own for fans of the genre. Highly Recommended The Criterion Collection edition of The Big Heat is currently available to purchase on 4K UHD and Blu-Ray. Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray. Disclaimer: The Criterion Collection has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Time of India
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
LEGO Fortnite Expeditions set to launch with hero classes and new adventures
Image via Epic Games Epic Games has officially teased the upcoming mode, which introduces a new layer of gameplay through 'Hero Classes.' The first of these, Shadow Caller, has already been unveiled, and early speculation suggests the class will feature enhanced mobility and mystical abilities. Interestingly, the character resembles Morgan Myst, hinting at the crossover potential Epic is known for. 'Shadow Caller is the first of three Hero Classes coming with Expeditions. Switch between them for a different gameplay experience and level them up as you play,' Epic said in an official post. While details remain limited, the new mode is expected to offer progression-based gameplay where each Hero Class will provide a distinct play style. Whether that translates to specific roles, similar to RPG-style party dynamics - or simply alternate mechanics remains unclear. However, fans are already drawing comparisons to Fortnite's Hero Items from Chapter 6 Season 3 and speculating that the experience may adopt elements from RPGs or even roguelites. LEGO Fortnite 's expanding universe LEGO Fortnite has seen rapid evolution since its initial debut in December 2023. Starting as a survival crafting experience, the game mode quickly became a fan favourite. The addition of LEGO Fortnite Brick Life brought life-sim elements to the table, including the recent inclusion of AI NPCs like Noir and Slurp Leviathan, who interact dynamically based on player actions. With Expeditions on the horizon, Epic continues to double down on LEGO Fortnite's appeal, especially among younger audiences and creative builders. On June 17, just a day before Expeditions launches, the LEGO Brick Editor will also be integrated into the Unreal Editor in Fortnite. This will give players access to 50 LEGO Bricks in 42 colours, allowing even more customisation within the metaverse. More details about the remaining two Hero Classes are expected soon, with speculation hinting at melee and ranged specialists. Some fans believe these may draw inspiration from existing Fortnite characters, while others hope for original LEGO-style heroes. Epic's history of unexpected crossovers leaves the door wide open. Players are also curious about how these Hero Classes will evolve during gameplay. Could we see RPG-style progression, skill upgrades, or team-based mechanics? While nothing has been confirmed, the potential for deeper engagement is promising. With Expeditions launching on June 18, Epic Games appears ready to expand LEGO Fortnite into something much larger. As class-based combat, storytelling, and creative tools come together, players can expect a richer, more layered experience moving forward. LEGO Fortnite Expeditions will be free to play across all major platforms including Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Also Read: Fortnite leak hints at big changes: Weapon mastery, ranked shops, and more in the pipeline
Forbes
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Malone Souliers' Lastest Campaign Celebrates Noir Cinema
Malone Souliers' AW25 Pre-Campaign Made in Italy, founded by Mary Alice Malone, London-based label Malone Souliers offers exquisitely made footwear and bags that are loved by leading ladies around the globe. It's no surprise then, that for its autumn/winter '25 pre-collection, entitled 'Noir,' it draws its inspiration from the seductive visuals that are synonymous with classic noir cinema, and its glamorous heroines. Think a vivid Hitchcockian palette of deep reds, inky blues, and blacks, with new season silhouettes including brogue-detail slingbacks, old Hollywood-worthy platforms, dramatic corset-inspired mules, and a new retro-inflected handbag to complete the line. Malone Souliers' AW25 Pre-Campaign To walk us through the collection, from femme fatale inspirations to new key styles for the season, Coco Fong and Valerio Bava, co-creative directors, share the story behind the new line. Noir cinema has been a long time fascination of ours. We have been wanting to reference this work for a while and we felt that this collection, at this time, was the right moment. Coco Fong & Valerio Bava: We are always inspired by costume design within film. The wardrobes of the leading women, the personalities of the characters, and the way their style reflects what those characters embody is something we were inspired by when designing this collection. In particular the wardrobes of Hitchcock's femme fatales and the duality of femininity and danger which is represented, was deeply interesting to us. CF & VB: 'Fierce femininity' is represented within the collection because of this duality of femininity and danger, which we found in the leading characters of noir cinema. This translates into design through the bold detailing, statement embellishment, sharp lines and jewel tone materials, featured throughout the collection. Malone Souliers' AW25 Pre-Campaign CF & VB: We have introduced new styles, which we believe will become new Malone Souliers icons. The Roxanne, which is very reminiscent of styles from the 50s era with a block heel and clean lines is finished in embossed croc and cherry red patent. The Bettina, which features a new update to our signature curve, is a universally flattering pump, worn to be dressed up or dressed down. CF & VB: We were primarily inspired by Alfred Hitchcock's movies, 'To Catch a Thief' and 'Vertigo', in particular Frances Stevens, played by Grace Kelly in "To Catch a Thief" and the dual role of Madeleine Elster and Judy Barton played by Kim Novak in 'Vertigo'. Malone Souliers' AW25 Pre-Campaign CF & VB: We have long been wanting to incorporate our signature strap into our handbag offering and this shape really lent itself to house this design detail. We took inspiration from vintage cosmetics and their unique packaging, which is where the new 'lipstick lock' feature evolved from. CF & VB: Of course, a highlight of our calendar is our LFW presentation, where we will showcase our SS25 collection in September, which is always a huge moment for us. We also have various activations that we are planning across the US and the Middle East to celebrate our seasonal collections which drop throughout the year.
Fashion Value Chain
29-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Fresh Perspectives with Familiar Luxury at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai
Mumbai's most beloved luxury hotel in Worli is stepping into a new chapter. After an extensive transformation, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai invites guests with refreshed elegance, reimagined spaces, and a soulfully luxurious experience that pays homage to the city's rich heritage while meeting the desires of the modern traveller. From revitalized accommodations and a newly envisioned spa to enhancements across the hotel's public spaces, guests can now expect a more refined, more immersive, and more indulgent Four Seasons experience than ever before. The hotel's signature warmth remains, but everything else from interiors to amenities has been elevated, whispering quiet luxury in every detail. General Manager Nitesh Gandhi introduces the new Spa at Four Seasons Mumbai The New Rooms Reimagine Elegance Renowned for their generous scale and impeccable comfort, the newly transformed rooms and suites at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai now offer an evocative tribute to the spirit of the city. Echoing Mumbai's vibrant textures, each space is imbued with intricate saree-inspired patterns, peacock feather motifs, and geometric borders; subtle cues that nod to tradition while feeling entirely of-the-moment. The design language is grounded in contemporary palettes and clean lines, creating a sanctuary that balances culture with calm. New rooms at Four Seasons Mumbai sparkle with city spirit Modern conveniences are seamlessly woven into the aesthetic. Smart Lutron systems allow guests to intuitively control lighting and window shades, while the blackout curtains promise uninterrupted rest. At the heart of each room is MyBar by Four Seasons, a thoughtfully stocked private bar replenished daily, whether you're craving a revitalizing espresso at sunrise or a smooth nightcap to end the day on a golden note. The Spa Redefines Urban Wellness In a metropolis known for its pulse and pace, the newly reimagined Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai offers a rare gift: stillness. Unfolding over two sun-drenched floors, The Spa has been meticulously redesigned into a sanctuary that invites you to pause, breathe, and return to yourself. Soft natural hues, airy interiors, and healing energy define the atmosphere, setting the stage for rituals that blend ancient Indian wisdom with modern elegance. Every treatment begins with a grounding Kansa foot massage: an age-old Indian ritual that calms and centers. From there, a curated menu of therapies unfolds like poetry: the Rejuvenating Serenity Massage uses flowing strokes and bespoke oils to dissolve tension, while the 24K Gold Radiance Facial blends precious metals and potent actives for a luminous, sculpted glow. Signature treatments like Myrrh, Noir, and the meditative Neroli Massage offer tailored experiences to meet individual needs, each using botanical oils from Ras Luxury Oils and cutting-edge formulations from French brand Gemology. Couples can reconnect over a candlelit soak in the Spa Romance ritual or indulge in the immersive Blissful Journey, while little guests are welcomed with the Junior's Escape menu. With wellness for every generation, private spa suites with Jacuzzis, Ayurveda rooms, and serene vitality pools, every moment is soaked in serenity. 'Fuelling the physical transformation is our continued focus on enhancing the positioning of the hotel as Mumbai's leading luxury hotel, supported by a team of talented and passionate hoteliers who make each guest feel welcome and special,' says Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, as he helms the hotel's transformative journey. From immersive room experiences rooted in local artistry to wellness journeys that feel like quiet revelations, the all-new Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai welcomes guests to experience the city's energy through a gentle, luxurious lens.
Refinery29
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Refinery29
5 Pixie Cuts That Will Inspire You To Go Shorter
Prepare for the pixie wave. Search for ' pixie haircuts ' spiked after the Golden Globes where Emma Stone debuted a new 'defined' pixie, and since then, short haircuts have been a hot request in salons: 'I think pixie cuts will become more popular in 2025,' predicts Anilsa Sanchez, a hairstylist and educator at Bumble and bumble's in NYC. 'I see it as a natural progression from all the bobs we've been seeing.' Whether you want to inch your bob to its next evolution or chop your long hair short in one fell swoop, scroll ahead to collect all the inspiration you need in time for your next haircut. Defined Pixie View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mara Roszak (@mararoszak) 'Sculpted, defined and timeless,' is how hairstylist Mara Roszak describes the pixie cut she gave Stone for her role in the upcoming film Bugonia. Andrean Noir, a hairstylist at Bumble and bumble, calls this 'the truest shape of a pixie, similar to Mia Farrow's now-iconic haircut from 1968. 'That cut powerfully influenced the industry,' Noir says. (Case in point: Actress Brie Larson also recently chopped her hair into a 'defined pixie' inspired by Mia Farrow in preparation for her role as Elektra.) Rounded Pixie View this post on Instagram A post shared by Style by Peter - Peter Corvington (@petercorvington) For many, a rounded pixie — with lots of length at the top and sides — is a good gateway short haircut. 'I've noticed more and more of these in the salon recently,' says Noir. It's a great option for anyone who wants a soft, rounded look versus a square shape which sometimes happens if the sides are cut short and flat. 'For those who feel like square is too aggressive, rounded is the way to go,' adds Noir. 'The grow-out is easy, and maintenance for this style is low.' Take inspiration from this cut by hairstylist Peter Corvington. Blunt Pixie View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jess Gonzalez (@jesstheebesttcolor) The blunt pixie cut frames the face with a more dramatic shape. With a heavy fringe, Sanchez recommends styling this cut with a hairdryer and hairspray to keep it soft but in place: 'Blow-dry flat with a flat brush and then shellac it with Bb. Strong Finish Firm Hold Hairspray, $61.' Choppy Pixie View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kiitan Akinniranye (@kiitana) With a choppy pixie, the fringe and the side pieces are cut to create angles at the forehead, around the ears, and even at the nape of the neck like this cut on Kiitan Akinniranye. Sanchez calls this style a 'punk-inspired pixie cut' and a 'striking choice that will emphasise your style and creativity.' Textured Pixie View this post on Instagram A post shared by Isabella Sementilli // los angeles hairstylist (@isabellahair) Like the rounded pixie, the textured pixie includes lots of shape and movement around the face, like this cut by hairstylist Isabella Sementilli. The difference is that the textured pixie is cut shorter on the sides with added layers at the top to create extra volume. To style a textured pixie, a great tip is to spray a thickening spray like John Frieda Volume PROfiller+ Thickening Spray, $20.99, into damp hair and let it air-dry. Beyond being a beautiful, timeless cut, you can simply wash your hair and leave the house.
