Expedient MEANS

Notes on Film, Art, Writing, Technology and other things by Steve A Furman

  • Artivism as Activism in Laguna Canyon

    Artivism as Activism in Laguna Canyon

    It was only recently that I learned of the term “artivism.” It came to me through a friend by way of an amazing project and a book. The project emerged from the mind of Mark Chamberlain a California artist who used his formidable photography talents to mobilize a community. With the efforts of hundreds of citizens Read more

  • My 2018 Oscar Picks

    My 2018 Oscar Picks

    The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will hold it’s 90th awards ceremony this Sunday. Controversy within the industry continues. Most organizations are slow to change and this one is no different. Changes were made to the voting members to include more minorities and women. I’m hopeful that as a result, there will be Read more

  • “Phantom Thread” Fashion, Power and Poison – Film Review

    “Phantom Thread” Fashion, Power and Poison – Film Review

    I always feel the need to prepare myself, at the very least, for an unfamiliar world before I see a Paul Thomas Anderson movie. That’s a given. As part of that preparation I did some serious research ahead of my recent viewing of Mr. Anderson’s latest film, Phantom Thread. Everyone knows by now this is Daniel Day-Lewis’s last Read more

  • “Lady Bird” Cinematic Album of Greatness – Film Review

    “Lady Bird” Cinematic Album of Greatness – Film Review

    One of my favorite films of 2016 was 20th Century Women. I’m a sucker for these social/cultural concept pictures that have a big cast, all with issues. They transport me back to my youth. Lady Bird is cut from the same celluloid and although it doesn’t take me all the way back to my boyhood, Read more

  • “The Big Sick” Romantic Comedy Remade – Film Review

    “The Big Sick” Romantic Comedy Remade – Film Review

    I really enjoyed The Big Sick. l think in large part for its ability to make me laugh even through a life or death circumstance. Michael Showalter directs this surprising gem written by married couple Emily V. Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani (HBO’s Silicon Valley). Its based, I’m assuming, on their real life exploits, but maybe not. No Read more

  • She holds all the Cards. “Molly’s Game” – Film Review

    She holds all the Cards. “Molly’s Game” – Film Review

    Every time I go into a theater or turn on a TV that has a script written by Aaron Sorkin, I’m convinced this is the time he will run out of words. That trading his soul for the talent to write unending, spectacular dialogue will have finally run out. Well, I’m happy to report whatever Read more