Meg Shields

Anna Swanson is a Senior Contributor who hails from Toronto. She can usually be found at the nearest rep screening of a Brian De Palma film.
Constantine

Double Take: They Got ‘Constantine’ Right The First Time

By Anna Swanson, and Meg Shields 

For its 16th anniversary, here’s our re-appraisal of the DC comic book movie.

The Matrix Fembot Red Dress

A Brief History of the Fembot in a Red Dress

By Meg Shields 

Were you distracted by the woman in the red dress? Yeah, us too. So let’s talk about it.

Scanners Exploding Head

How They Shot the Head Explosion Scene in ‘Scanners’

By Meg Shields 

“If ever you want to blow up a head, I advise using kosher salt. But don’t do this at home.” – special effects artist Gary Zeller.

Gravity sound design

‘Gravity’ and the Line Between Realistic and Believable Sound Design

By Meg Shields 

In sound cinema, the impression of silence is rarely…well, silent. Here’s a look at ‘Gravity’ to explain why.

The Long Goodbye Punch Drunk Love

Paul Thomas Anderson and the Uncanny Influence of ‘The Long Goodbye’

By Meg Shields 

Here’s an homage to one of cinema’s greatest homages: Paul Thomas Anderson’s love for ‘The Long Goodbye.’

Pixar Lighting Soul

The Real Fake Lighting of Pixar’s ‘Soul’

By Meg Shields 

Here’s a video essay on the development of Pixar’s ray tracing technology and its importance (and beauty) in their latest film.

Skyfall Movie Credits

The Beginner’s Guide to Deciphering Movie Credits

By Meg Shields 

Here’s your one-stop beginner’s guide to deciphering the meaning, placement, and purpose of movie credits.

Pixar Inspiration Up

Pixar’s Secrets for Finding Inspiration

By Meg Shields 

Choice snippets from Pete Docter on how the studio navigates creativity.

In The Mouth Of Madness Ending Explained

The Ending of John Carpenter’s ‘In The Mouth of Madness’ Explained

By Meg Shields 

Look, when you inadvertently play a part in freeing a Lovecraftian nightmare…you have to laugh!