INFOGRAPHIC: How much would movie cars cost to insure?

We’ve all seen the iconic cars from the films, with their flashy gadgets and awe-inspiring bodywork. But how much might it cost to insure these celebrated motors? The folks at Quotezone.co.uk decided to put the curiosity to rest. Our specialists looked at the usual queries asked when comparing car insurance quotes, such as the driver’s age, their profession and whether or not they have a No Claims Bonus. They also reviewed the unique features of each vehicle, such as its ability to time-travel or transform into a submarine. Find out how much these cars might cost to insure in 2019.

2019, Column, Editorial, Infographic, LIST, Social Media, SPECIALDon ShanahanFebruary 14, 2019Comment

EDITORIAL: What makes Marvel movies better than DC movies?

What makes Marvel movies better than DC movies? Marvel managed to create its own world – unique and dynamic. It embodies its heroes’ features immersing the spectators into the action. What are the key points of such a success? Let’s read and learn.

2019, Column, Editorial, GUEST CRITIC, Social Media, SPECIALDon ShanahanFebruary 14, 2019Comment

MEDIA APPEARANCE: David Ehrlich's IndieWire Critics Survey on February 11, 2019

Notable and notorious IndieWire film critic David Ehrlich recently put out a social media call for film critic peers to join a weekly survey to discuss movie topics, answer questions, and highlight their work. Representing Every Movie Has a Lesson, I, along with over 50 other emerging and established film critics including some of my fellow Chicago Independent Film Critics Circle members, accepted the invitation to participate. I'm honored by the opportunity, and I hope my responses are chosen each week.

Independent Film, Media Appearance, Social Media, SPECIAL, 2019Don ShanahanFebruary 11, 2019David EhrlichComment

CAPSULE REVIEWS: The 2019 Academy Award nominees for Best Animated Short

Call it a critic’s perk, but it is an absolute treat to be able to annually view and review many of the Academy Award nominees for the minor film categories. This year’s finalists for the Animated Short category are the best field in several years. They vary in emotional anchors and artistic styles, but sacrifice little in quality, effort, or impact. Locally here in Chicago, these selections are playing at the the Landmark Century Centre Cinema location in Lakeview.

2019, Independent Film, MOVIE REVIEW, SHORT FILMS, SPECIALDon ShanahanFebruary 9, 2019Landmark Century Centre CinemasComment

INFOGRAPHIC: The 10 most expensive jewelry pieces worn at the Academy Awards

The women of Hollywood wear gowns from the biggest names in fashion and jewelry — some of which carry a hefty price tag. From emerald earrings to blue diamonds, dazzling pieces have graced the red carpet since the awards began in 1929. Take a look at the 10 most expensive pieces of jewelry that celebrities have borrowed for the Academy Awards over the years from HOLA!

2019, Infographic, LIST, Social Media, SPECIALDon ShanahanFebruary 7, 2019 Comment

INFOGRAPHIC: Hidden Iconic Movie Cars Quiz

Can you find the iconic movie cars hidden in this poster? If you love cars, and movies, this is the perfect quiz for you. The folks at Leasing Options have hidden 24 famous cars from movies in the awesome cityscape below. I am happy to share that here on Every Movie Has a Lesson. You’ll need to really know your movies, and your cars, to find all of them. You can find the link to the answers below.

2019, Infographic, SPECIAL, Social MediaDon ShanahanFebruary 7, 2019Comment

MOVIE REVIEW: The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part

Matching the classic plastic building toys themselves, reinvention is as easy and frequent as the twist of one of their rainbow-hued blocks if one is prepared for it. Projecting that life’s simplicity through its dazzling style of presentation, The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part is another sparkling escapade of accepting and approachable entertainment.

2019, 4 STARS, ADVANCE MOVIE REVIEW, MOVIE REVIEWDon ShanahanFebruary 6, 2019AMC Navy Pier IMAXComment

MOVIE REVIEW: Perfect Strangers (Perfectos Desconocidos)

The poster for the Mexican remake Perfectos Desconocidos glows with affluence. We see a richly appointed dinner party scene flush with refinement from edge to edge across fashions, place settings, and the flowing wine. What intentionally glows the brightest on the poster is the statement “We all have a secret life.” It symbolically shows materialistic beauty undone by the blunt intrusion of technology. Thematically, that tagline statement is the lightning bolt of tension that charges this entire film.

2018, 2019, 3 STARS, Foreign Film, Independent Film, MOVIE REVIEW, Video on DemandDon ShanahanFebruary 5, 2019 Comments

MEDIA APPEARANCE: David Ehrlich's IndieWire Critics Survey on February 4, 2019

Notable and notorious IndieWire film critic David Ehrlich recently put out a social media call for film critic peers to join a weekly survey to discuss movie topics, answer questions, and highlight their work. Representing Every Movie Has a Lesson, I, along with over 50 other emerging and established film critics including some of my fellow Chicago Independent Film Critics Circle members, accepted the invitation to participate. I'm honored by the opportunity, and I hope my responses are chosen each week.

Independent Film, Media Appearance, Social Media, SPECIAL, 2019Don ShanahanFebruary 4, 2019David EhrlichComment

SPECIAL: Third annual CIFCC Award winners

As one of the founders and directors of the Chicago Independent Film Critics Circle, I am honored and thrilled to share with you the results of the third annual CIFCC Awards. On Saturday, February 2nd at a special evening members event hosted by the Cards Against Humanity Theater in Chicago, the film critics and guests gathered to honor the year in film, celebrate member accomplishments, and promote overall group achievements. The event was streamed live over the CIFCC YouTube channel.

2019, Best Films, Independent Film, LIST, Social MediaDon ShanahanFebruary 4, 2019Comment

EDITORIAL: Make yourself a better Oscar predictor

Here on Every Movie Has a Lesson, I have fashioned myself as an informed individual when it comes to predicting the winners of the Academy Awards. My role as a critic has me in tune with the films of the season and my eyes on the industry has me seeing the trends. My annual claim has been “stick with me and I will help you win your Oscar pool.” Many friends has backed my picks and come out winners. I wanted to peel back the curtain and show you how I do it. There are four areas to scout.

2019, Column, Editorial, Social MediaDon ShanahanJanuary 31, 2019Comment

SPECIAL: Third annual CIFCC Award nominations

On Saturday, January 26th, the Chicago Independent Film Critics Circle announced the nominees for the their third annual CIFCC Awards. 37 different films were nominated between 21 categories. As one of the founders and directors of the Chicago Independent Film Critics Circle, I’m honored to be among such fine peers. These are solid picks our group can be proud to support. Here’s a special slideshow presenting each category. The CIFCC will present their winners on February 2nd.

2018, 2019, Column, LIST, SPECIAL, Social MediaDon ShanahanJanuary 27, 2019Comment