By CJ Tiernan Naval gazing (which is neither a reference to a seedless variety of orange fruit nor a way of describing a look into the middle distance by a member of our aquatic armed forces) is inherently self-indulgent. To look back at one’s own work and choose which best stands the test of time is to stare in to the face of God, hold up a hand, and say, “I’ve got this, big guy.” It’s wrong. To gaze upon one’s own naval requires a mirror, which is a private, intimate thin

By CJ Tiernan There is an inherent desire, lurking in every performer, to be a star. We are drawn to the center of the spotlight, to shine brighter than anyone else, to stand out. It takes a great deal of grace (or a series of failures) to willingly step aside and yield the floor to someone else. But making a movie, as with most victories, is a team game. It takes all parties pulling the rope in the same direction to be successful. Sometimes, those supporting players do the

By CJ Tiernan The Coen Brothers, comprised of actual brothers Joel and Ethan, have created an untouchably eclectic oeuvre. They can go broad and slapstick or dark and understated. They have a very unique sense of humor that helps to cut their often violent films' tension to pieces with a wood chipper. They can just as easily pull the rug out from under you as they can leave rolling on said rug, laughing your head off. Apart from recurring cast members, you never really know w