David Thomson's 'A Sudden Flicker of Light' Review – A Brilliant 2026

David Thomson's latest book 'A Sudden Flicker of Light' is a brilliantly eccentric history of the movies that captivates and challenges. The acclaimed film critic and historian delivers a sweeping, revisionist take on cinema from its prehistory to modern streaming.

What Makes This Book a Revisionist History?

Thomson subtitles his work a 'revisionist' history, but it's far more than a simple retelling. He delves into the movies' tendency to coarsen culture and enforce mob-rule, citing King Vidor's 1928 film The Crowd as a key example. The tragic rise and fall of actor James Murray mirrors Thomson's view of cinema's populist power and its dark underbelly.

The Power of the Crowd

Thomson marvels at the unique democratic reach of film, where the audience cannot stop or affect the action unlike in theater. He compares this to a theologian dragged by doubts to the foot of the cross, questioning if movies lack literature's ability to enlarge imagination.

Key Films and Figures Highlighted

From Eadweard Muybridge's early photography to Fritz Lang's Metropolis, DW Griffith's Birth of a Nation, and David Lynch's Mulholland Drive, Thomson covers a vast landscape. He also discusses modern works like Sean Baker's Anora and Stephen Graham's Adolescence on Netflix.

Key Takeaways from the Review

• Thomson writes with the magnificent elan of a 1940s big band leader, blending brilliance and exasperation.
• The book covers Hollywood with side trips to European and East Asian arthouse cinema.
• Thomson argues that big-screen theatrical experiences may be fading, as seen in the success of Netflix dramas.
• He questions whether movies can ever match literature for imaginative depth.

FAQ

Whether you agree with Thomson's views or not, his latest book offers a brilliantly eccentric journey through the movies. It is a must-read for film enthusiasts who appreciate deep, provocative analysis.