TAKE 55
TAKE 55 is an independent video essay series on cinema by Shane James Bordas, exploring films through tone, form, and recurring motifs.
Strands:
Main Essay: under 9 minutes, every other Sunday
Quick Cut: under 3 minutes, sharp reflections
Interval: around 5 minutes, films that blend genres and styles
I'm not a film academic, but I've spent decades watching, rewatching, and thinking about what makes certain films linger. The aim is to offer analysis that stays personal, precise, and reflective.
Film noir, screwball comedies, art films, overlooked gems. If a film is worth talking about, it belongs on TAKE 55.
Reasons to subscribe:
Clear, concise essays with a consistent rhythm
A focus on ideas, images, and atmosphere
One voice, one editor, one vision
New episodes every Sunday evening (UK)
If you enjoy the channel and want to support it, you can do so at Ko-Fi.
TAKE 55: Quick Cut | Touch Of Evil (1958)
The Asphalt Jungle (1950) | TAKE 55: "Front. Nothing but front."
TAKE 55: Quick Cut | Criss Cross (1949)
TAKE 55: Interval | The Wrong Man (1956)
The Chase (1946) | TAKE 55: "Silly law-abiding jerk!"
TAKE 55: Interval | The Letter (1940)
TAKE 55: Quick Cut | Born To Kill (1947)
Murder, My Sweet (1944) | TAKE 55: “They don’t make that kind of time in watches anyway.”
TAKE 55: Quick Cut | In A Lonely Place (1950)
Out Of The Past (1947) | TAKE 55: "It's a small world... or a big sign."
TAKE 55: Quick Cut | Possessed (1947)
Sudden Fear (1952) | TAKE 55: "You're a very good actor too."
TAKE 55: Quick Cut | Tension (1949)
Detour (1945) | TAKE 55: "Your philosophy stinks, pal!"
TAKE 55: Quick Cut | Where The Sidewalk Ends (1950)
The Lady From Shanghai (1947) | TAKE 55: "That's an edge, brother."
Phantom Lady (1944) | TAKE 55: “I thought guys didn’t cry.”