Just saw Grand Illusion. Gabin and the supporting case were excellent.

The avalanche of personal attacks on Mr. Shapiro suggests that his article contains more than a list of 'overrated' directors. Doesn't he insinuate that the 'system' that produces financing, awards and public homage is flawed?

"Hitch was a hit with audiences and critics...most influential film...most-copied filmmakers...most-referenced... impossible to understand...cinema without...Hitchcok..."

Sorry to pick out one sentence but it will illustrate what Ben is targeting: Hitchcock is a 'hit', the director has 'influence' and he is "most copied" and "most referenced".

Isn't Ben attacking the cult of "following" and "imitating"?

Isn't he almost attacking the entire move-making industry?

Haha, you'd think so from the comments.

Stanley.