This week we’re continuing our three-part (I) look at one of film’s most famous Roman battle sequences, the iconic opening battle from Gladiator (2000). I had planned this to be in two parts, but even though this sequence is relatively short, it provides an awful lot to talk about. As noted last week, this iconic … Continue reading Collections: Nitpicking Gladiator’s Iconic Opening Battle, Part II →

Much has changed in Northern Ireland Mike Abrahams took these pictures, including the Good Friday Agreement and a return to power sharing. “I am not a news photographer,” says Abrahams to Cafe Royal, which has published a zine of his pictures of July 12 celebrations, “there are many of my colleagues who have pursued that … Continue reading "July 12 in Northern Ireland, 1987–1998" The post July 12 in Northern Ireland, 1987–1998 appeared first on Flashbak.

An Ancient Journey to the Moon

Folk beliefs in the Middle Ages included a variety of fantastical creatures pulled from a hodgepodge of local customs, ancient tales, Judeo-Christian teachings, and limited understanding of zoology. The sea monsters and demons that feature in these stories range from the famous to the obscure to the downright bizarre. It is unknown how many […]

Among the papers left behind by the English writer Evelyn Waugh (8 October 1903 – 10 April 1966) is a so-called Victorian Blood Book. This large rectangular decoupage scrapbook of 41 plates bound and wrapped in marble endpapers is remarkable, strange and unsettling, with echoes of illuminated medieval manuscripts and Rosicrucianism.   The book’s decoupage … Continue reading "All 41 Plates From Evelyn Waugh’s Victorian Blood Book, Durenstein!" The post All 41 Plates From Evelyn Waugh’s Victorian Blood Book, Durenstein! appeared first on Flashbak.