Turning Heel

Though a good/evil distinction is present in most narratives, when it comes to professional wrestling the dynamic between babyfaces (good guys) and heels (bad guys) is uniquely important. In an entertainment medium that lives and dies based on the reactions and whims of the live audience, it’s critical […]

The True Meaning of Masculinity

When we first meet John McClane (Bruce Willis), hero of John McTiernan’s seminal 1988 hit Die Hard, he’s not feeling the holiday spirit, grudgingly giving in to small talk with his seatmate on a crowded flight to L.A. And so, the first things McTiernan makes sure we know […]