CURATED CRAFT INDEX
Maintaining a public identity requires choices with consequences. These scenes examine artists, students, workers, and social climbers whose preferred image conflicts with what they do or experience.
Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)
Theater backstage run-up to opening night and Riggan's public self-collapse
The theater’s deadline brings Riggan’s professional work, family, reviews, and self-image into direct conflict.
Read the reviewed scene →Black Swan (2010)
Rehearsal and performance pressure as Nina internalizes the Swan Queen role
Pursuing the ballet role connects Nina’s professional ambition with rivalry, injury, and changes in how she experiences her body.
Read the reviewed scene →Death Becomes Her (1992)
Potion bargain and the escalating maintenance of immortal damaged bodies
The potion makes maintaining a beautiful appearance require increasingly absurd repairs to damaged bodies.
Read the reviewed scene →Heathers (1988)
Cafeteria hierarchy, forged suicide notes, and escalating social violence
Rumors, notes, seating, and interpretations of death continue to enforce popularity after violence occurs.
Read the reviewed scene →Almost Famous (2000)
William joins the band tour and learns access is not the same as belonging
William’s access to the band creates attachments that complicate his responsibility to describe it accurately.
Read the reviewed scene →High Fidelity (2000)
Rob's top-five breakups and direct-address romantic inventory
Rob’s lists sound analytical while helping him avoid responsibility for failed relationships.
Read the reviewed scene →