Less than a Critique

"Welcome to 'Less Than a Critique' with your host, Rudy Crown. Drawing on his decade-long experience in the film and TV industry, Rudy dives beneath the surface of his favorite films, exploring their deeper meanings, the impact they've made, and the passion and labor that went into creating them. Whether it's a dystopian future filled with violence or an introspective drama that mirrors society, every film is a starting point for a larger discussion. Tune in as we transform the final credits into the opening lines of a fascinating conversation. Welcome, to a unique critique."

Recent Episodes

Ep. 4

Menace II Society

Ep. 2

Oldboy

Ep. 3

Don’t Look Up

Ep. 1

Robocop

Brand Guide

Video Essays

In this episode, we're dissecting the boundary-pushing brutality of 'The Suicide Squad'. Does its uber-violence enhance the narrative or distract from it? We'll dig into why such explicit violence can actually serve as a potent storytelling tool within this ensemble comic book film. Tune in as we navigate the bloody battleground of The Suicide Squad and understand its strategic use of violence in telling a compelling story.

This video centers around the gripping sensation 'Squid Game'. While capitalism serves as the show's core theme, what makes it irresistibly good? We'll explore the distinct facets of Korean cinema that make it stand out, and the specific elements that make 'Squid Game' an addicting watch. Join us as we navigate the intense, high-stakes world of 'Squid Game' and dissect why it's a monumental success in the realm of storytelling.

In this episode, we're shining a spotlight on 'Don't Look Up'. Despite its lukewarm reception among critics, the film has striking elements that make it work. We'll delve into some of my favorite scenes and the distinct directorial choices behind them. 'Don't Look Up' is a product of our current era, eliciting diverse reactions from its viewers. Join us as we discuss how such films shape our perspectives and provoke different emotional responses.

In this episode, we delve into the potent themes of hood allegory and premature death in urban environments, as depicted in films like 'Menace II Society'. Do these cinematic portrayals still reflect today's reality? We're taking a closer look at the relevance and importance of the hood allegory in contemporary society and understanding why it might be even more significant now than it was three decades ago. Tune in as we unravel these complex themes and their lasting impact on cinema and society.