Episode 82 on The Substance Summary In this episode, Michael and Dave dive into The Substance, a film by Coralie Fargeat. The film explores the dark and gritty side of Hollywood’s obsession with youth, following Elizabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a former aerobic star who turns to a mysterious serum for a youthful transformation. This risky choice leads her into a twisted psychological battle with her younger self, Sue (Margaret Qualley), as the two are forced to switch bodies every seven days. Key Discussion Points Plot Overview: The film's exploration of ageism, Hollywood’s beauty standards, and the battle between youthful ambition and the wisdom of age. Director’s Style: Coral Le Far’s cinematic techniques, reminiscent of her previous work in Revenge, and visual callbacks to classic horror films like The Shining and The Fly. Cinematography and Sound Design: Praise for cinematographer Benjamin Krakun and sound designer Emmanuel's Yard, creating a contrast between Hollywood’s bright artificiality and the film’s dark themes. Practical Effects: Emphasis on the effective use of prosthetics and 1980s-inspired effects over CGI, with comparisons to movies like The Thing and Requiem for a Dream. Memorable Moments Shrimp Scene: The “disgusting” and metaphorical close-up of Dennis Quaid’s character devouring shrimp, symbolizing Hollywood’s consumption of aging stars. Body Horror: Discussions on the intense practical effects, leading to some wince-inducing moments that play with medical horror aesthetics. Themes of Identity and Self-Worth: The hosts analyze how the film examines the lengths people go to in order to stay relevant and young, questioning the true “value” of beauty and fame. Ratings and Final Thoughts Michael gives the film four stars, highlighting its timely commentary on youth obsession, while Dave awards it five stars, calling it one of the best films of the year. Both agree on the standout performances by Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, predicting Oscar buzz. Cultural Commentary The hosts reflect on Hollywood's commodification of beauty and youth, pointing out how the film exposes the industry’s relentless pursuit of “perfection” and the unrealistic standards imposed on women. Looking Forward Next episode, Michael and Dave consider reviewing Heretic, an A24 horror film, or exploring other films relevant to award season buzz. Connect with Us Visit our website mindframesfilm.com or find us on Facebook at MindframesMovies for more insights, and feel free to reach out if you’d like to be a guest or suggest a movie!   Introduction to The Substance 00:00:15 - Michael welcomes listeners and introduces the movie The Substance. Plot Summary & Themes 00:00:42 - Dave gives a brief overview of the film’s plot, focusing on Elizabeth Sparkle’s battle with her younger self, Sue. 00:02:17 - Michael and Dave discuss the film’s themes of ageism, youth obsession, and identity in Hollywood. Director and Cinematography 00:03:01 - Discussion of Coral Le Far’s style, including her previous work on Revenge and the “revenge movie” genre. 00:04:09 - Michael describes the vibrant color palette and camera work, including hallway shots reminiscent of The Shining. Shrimp Scene & Sound Design 00:05:34 - Michael and Dave analyze the infamous “shrimp scene” with Dennis Quaid’s character, highlighting the film’s sound design. 00:07:06 - Praise for Emmanuel’s Yard’s work on the sound effects, enhancing the visceral experience. Practical Effects and Body Horror 00:09:07 - Dave discusses the impressive practical effects, comparing them to The Thing and emphasizing the grotesque elements that made even seasoned horror fans look away. Discussion on Hollywood and Beauty Standards 00:13:38 - Michael and Dave explore the film’s commentary on Hollywood’s treatment of aging women and the pressures of beauty standards. Performances by Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley 00:14:22 - The hosts delve into the powerful performances, especially Demi Moore’s nuanced portrayal of Elizabeth, and Margaret Qualley’s rising-star status. Film References & Influences 00:50:38 - The hosts compare The Substance to other films like The Elephant Man, Frankenstein, The Fly, and Carrie, discussing how these influences shape the film’s narrative and aesthetic. Ratings and Spoiler-Free Reviews 00:17:09 - Michael and Dave each give their spoiler-free ratings, with Michael awarding four stars and Dave giving it five. Third-Act Discussion & Moral Takeaways 00:46:18 - Spoiler discussion on the third act, where the hosts interpret the film’s moral stance on aging, beauty, and acceptance. Closing and Next Episode Preview 00:57:04 - Dave previews potential films for the next episode, including Heretic, an A24 horror movie, as well as Rumors, a film featuring Tilda Swinton.

Episode Summary: In this fun and lively episode, Michael and David take a break from their usual thematic deep dives to enjoy the highly anticipated film "Deadpool and Wolverine." Join them as they explore the movie's humor, fourth-wall breaks, cameos, and more. This episode is packed with laughs, insightful critiques, and a healthy dose of fan service. Key Discussion Points: Introduction (00:15 - 01:11): The usual format involves pulling out one theme from a movie, but this episode is kept light and free to match the film's tone. Introduction to "Deadpool and Wolverine," starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. Director and Production (01:11 - 02:12): Directed by Sean Levy, who previously worked with Ryan Reynolds on "Free Guy." The film is described as a buddy comedy made by buddies. Humor and Fourth-Wall Breaks (02:12 - 06:35): The movie is filled with jokes, cameos, and references that require multiple viewings to catch all details. Outrageously violent and vulgar in keeping with Deadpool's character. Favorite Moments and Cameos (06:35 - 11:18): Highlights include cameos from Henry Cavill and Chris Evans. Discussion on how the film plays with meta-references and nostalgia. Comparisons and Critiques (11:18 - 13:54): Compared favorably to other superhero films like "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness." Praised for its self-awareness and comedic tone. Fan Service (13:54 - 18:07): The film is described as fan service done right. Michael appreciates the movie for being honest about its intentions and serving the fans well. Character Development and Themes (18:07 - 34:48): Discussions on character growth, particularly for Wolverine and Deadpool. Use of iconic costumes and staying true to the characters' comic origins. Upcoming Films and Recommendations (34:48 - 48:45): Mentions of upcoming films like "Twisted Metal," "Long Legs," and "Alien Romulus." Recommendations for future episodes and a look at some intriguing trailers. Quotes: "This movie breaks the fourth wall so often you will literally need to see it twice just to get all of that." "I am a fan. Serve me." "It's a buddy comedy made by buddies." Final Thoughts (44:04 - 48:45): Michael and David agree that "Deadpool and Wolverine" is a fun ride with beloved characters, making it worth the watch. The episode ends with a look forward to future movies and potential podcast topics.

Mind Frames Podcast - Episode 79: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga Overview: In this episode, Michael and Dave delve into the newest installment of the Mad Max universe, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga. Directed by George Miller, this film explores the origin story of Imperator Furiosa, previously portrayed by Charlize Theron in Mad Max: Fury Road, now played by Anya Taylor-Joy. Join the hosts as they discuss the film's thematic elements, casting choices, and how it fits into the larger Mad Max franchise. Key Topics: Introduction to Mind Frames (00:00 - 00:24) Overview of the podcast and the format of the show. Film Introduction (00:25 - 00:52) Introduction of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga. Brief synopsis and connection to Mad Max: Fury Road. Discussion on George Miller (01:43 - 03:33) George Miller’s influence on the post-apocalyptic genre. His versatility as a filmmaker with works like Babe and Happy Feet. Thematic Elements in George Miller’s Films (03:35 - 06:32) Themes of human society’s impact on the world. Comparison of themes across Miller’s diverse filmography. Casting Choices (07:21 - 10:51) Anya Taylor-Joy’s performance as Furiosa. Physical and stylistic differences between Anya Taylor-Joy and Charlize Theron. Discussion of Chris Hemsworth’s role as Dementus and his comedic influence. Character Analysis (10:55 - 12:31) Examination of Furiosa’s character development. Comparison between Furiosa in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga and Mad Max: Fury Road. Chris Hemsworth as Dementus (15:45 - 19:17) Analysis of Hemsworth’s performance and character. Discussion on the balance of humor and menace in his role. Immortan Joe and Prequels (19:18 - 22:06) Role of Immortan Joe in Furiosa. Challenges of integrating iconic characters into prequels. Supporting Characters (23:05 - 26:04) Discussion on Tom Burke’s character and his role in Furiosa’s story. Critique of the necessity of his character in the narrative. Cinematography and Visuals (27:24 - 30:14) Comparison of cinematography in Furiosa and Fury Road. Use of CGI and its impact on the film’s visual appeal. Action Sequences (30:15 - 31:33) Overview of the film’s action sequences and stunt work. Comparison to other action movies of the year. Box Office Performance and Marketing (31:34 - 42:31) Discussion on the film’s box office performance. Analysis of marketing strategies and their impact on the film’s reception. Cultural Impact and Audience Reception (42:32 - 50:01) Broader discussion on the cultural impact of the film. Comparison of audience reception across different demographics. Final Thoughts and Recommendations (50:01 - 53:01) Hosts’ final thoughts on Furiosa. Recommendations for exploring more of George Miller’s work. Conclusion: Michael and Dave conclude the episode with reflections on George Miller’s filmmaking career and the significance of Furiosa within the Mad Max franchise. They also touch upon broader trends in the film industry and audience preferences. Next Episode: ????? Follow Us: - Website: [mindframesfilm.com](http://mindframesfilm.com) - Network: [Now Playing Network](http://nowplaying.org)  

The Complexities of "Civil War" and the Intricacies of Alex Garland's Direction In this episode of "Mindframes," hosts Dave and M.W. Cockerill delve into Alex Garland's latest film, "Civil War," exploring its portrayal of a polarized America and the role of media in war contexts. The discussion traverses Garland's filmography, highlighting his distinctive approach to filmmaking and thematic consistency across his works. The episode also touches on broader film genres, notably the categorization challenges within horror and zombie films, using "28 Days Later" as a focal point. Key Discussion Points 1. **Alex Garland's Directorial Style:** Insight into Garland's evolution as a director, with a detailed discussion on his notable films including "Ex Machina," "Annihilation," and "Men." The hosts explore how these films align thematically with "Civil War." 2. **Genre Definitions and Controversies:** A lively debate on what constitutes a zombie film, referencing "28 Days Later" and other genre films like "The Walking Dead" and "I Am Legend." 3. **"Civil War" - A Film Analysis:**    - **Plot and Setting:** Examination of the film's setting in a dystopian America, discussing the world-building elements and the narrative's focus on societal breakdown.    - **Character Development and Performances:** Discussion on the character arcs, particularly focusing on the performances of Kristen Dunst and other key actors.    - **Themes:** Deep dive into the political and social themes portrayed in the film, such as division, media influence, and the impact of leadership styles reminiscent of contemporary political figures.    - **Cinematic Techniques:** Analysis of Garland's use of visual and sound design to enhance the thematic depth and emotional impact of the film. Special Segments - **Horror Film Debate:** Is "Civil War" a horror movie? Hosts debate the genre specifications and the broader implications of genre categorization in film. - **Viewer Reactions and Interpretations:** Exploration of varied audience reactions to the film, particularly focusing on its political commentary and its reflection of real-world tensions. Closing Thoughts - The hosts reflect on the implications of "Civil War" for future filmmaking in politically charged climates. - Recommendations for audiences on how to approach the film to gain a deeper understanding of its themes. **Where to Watch:**   "Civil War" is currently in wide release and available exclusively in theaters, including IMAX. **Episode Links:** - Stream this episode and subscribe to "Mindframes" on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, and wherever podcasts are available. - Visit our website at mindframesfilms.com for more insights and discussions.

Episode 76, "Navigating the Sands of Dune Part Two" Episode Summary: In this enthralling episode, Michael and Dave embark on a journey through the expansive deserts of Denis Villeneuve's "Dune Part Two." From the continuation of Paul Atreides' epic saga to the deep philosophical underpinnings of messianism and political intrigue, the hosts dissect the film's thematic complexities and its directorial prowess. Join us as we compare Villeneuve's adaptation to its cinematic and literary predecessors, speculate on the potential directions for the franchise, and reflect on the broader impact of "Dune" on the future of film and cinema culture. Show Notes: [00:00:00] - Introduction to "Mind Frames" and today's focus on "Dune Part Two." [00:01:30] - Overview of "Dune Part Two," including its narrative continuation from "Dune Part One" and initial thoughts on the film's impact. [00:05:00] - Deep dive into Denis Villeneuve's directorial style, examining how his vision and thematic focus contribute to the "Dune" universe. [00:10:45] - Analysis of religious and political themes in "Dune Part Two," exploring the portrayal of Paul Atreides as a messianic figure and the interplay between faith and power. [00:20:30] - Comparison with previous "Dune" adaptations, including the 1984 film, and discussion on the challenges and successes of Villeneuve's approach. [00:30:00] - Speculation on future films in the "Dune" series, potential plot developments, and the continuation of thematic exploration. [00:40:00] - The cultural impact of "Dune" and its significance in the context of modern cinema. Discussion on the shift from traditional movie-going experiences to streaming platforms and "Dune's" role in this evolution. [00:50:00] - Closing thoughts on "Dune Part Two" and its place in the pantheon of science fiction cinema. [00:55:00] - Final remarks and preview of the next episode of "Mind Frames." Resources Mentioned: Denis Villeneuve's Filmography "Dune" by Frank Herbert "Blade Runner 2049" and its thematic parallels with "Dune" The cultural phenomenon of movie-going as an event and its future Connect with Us: Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Website: mindframesfilm.com

Dave and Michael discuss their five go-to movies for 2023, along with some initial Oscar reactions, and a lot of honorable mentions. The Mindframe(s) must-sees of 2023 Killers of the Flower Moon Oppenheimer Barbie The Holdovers

Anaita Wali Zada as Donya Jeremy Allen White as Daniel Gregg Turkington as Dr. Anthony Hilda Schmelling as Joanna Avis See-tho as Fan Siddique Ahmed as Salim Taban Ibraz as Mina Timur Nusratty as Suleyman Eddie Tang as Ricky Jennifer McKay as Lin Divya Jakatdar as Amaya Fazil Seddiqui as Aziz Molly Noble as Molly Enoch Ku as Jason Sich Liu as Restaurant Worker Bettina Devin as Ellen (uncredited) Gisele Matocq as Restaurant Patron (uncredited) Corey Seaver as Deliveryman (uncredited) Nisha Steiger as Restaurant Patron (uncredited) Timestamps 00:00 - 12:16 Intro and Background 12:36 - 21:37 Spoiler-free reviews 21:37 - 54:50 The theme of resilience in Fremonet 54:50 0 End Outro

This episode’s topics Start - 18:23 Greta Gerwig and the people who made Barbie 18:23 - 41:35 Mindframes reviews Conversation 1: Barbie and the Millennial experience  Conversation 2: IP in films, are more toys movies coming (yes)   Film info Imdb https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1517268/   Barbie suffers a crisis that leads her to question her world and her existence. In wide release and coming to IMAX….somehow! Crew Greta Gerwig as director and co-writer Noah Baumbach as co-writer Robbie Brenner as producer David Heyman as producer Ynon Kreiz as producer Cast Margot Robbie as Barbie Ryan Gosling as Ken Issa Rae as President Barbie Kate McKinnon as Weird Barbie Alexandra Shipp as Writer Barbie Emma Mackey as Physicist Barbie Hari Nef as Doctor Barbie Simu Liu as Skipper America Ferrera as Gloria Will Ferrell as the CEO of Barbie Ncuti Gatwa as a drag queen Sharon Rooney as Lawyer Barbie Ana Cruz Kayne as Judge Barbie Rhea Perlman as Betty Michael Cera as Ryan Gosling's character's best friend Kingsley Ben-Adir as a character described as "a doll with an attitude" Emerald Fennell as an unknown character Ritu Arya as Journalist Barbie Dua Lipa as Mermaid Barbie Nicola Coughlan as Diplomat Barbie Tom Ackerley as producer  

In this episode of Mindframe(s), Michael and Dave discuss Christopher Nolan's new film, Oppenheimer. Our hosts praise the film's technical achievements and discuss the flaws and triumphs of the titular character in the non-spoiler section. Cillian Murphy gives a stunning performance, and you'll have to listen to find out how much forgiveness and sympathy our hosts ended up giving this depiction of the "Father of the Atom Bomb." Crew Director: Christopher Nolan Screenwriters: Christopher Nolan, Kai Bird, Martin Sherwin Producers: Christopher Nolan, Charles Roven, Emma Thomas Cinematographer: Hoyte Van Hoytema Editor: Jennifer Lame Music: Ludwig Göransson Distributed by: Universal Pictures Cast Cillian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer Emily Blunt as Kitty Oppenheimer Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss Matt Damon as Leslie Groves Jr. Alden Ehrenreich as Senate Aide Scott Grimes as Counsel Jason Clarke as Roger Robb Jack Quaid as Thomas Morgan Gary Oldman as Harry S. Truman Tony Goldwyn as Gordon Gray Rami Malek as Benny Safdie John Gowans Ward Evans Dane DeHaan Macon Blair Lloyd Garrison James D'Arcy Patrick Blackett

The Flash Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One

Introduction: Welcome to "Mindframe(s)", the podcast where Dave and Michael try to pull themes and ideas relevant to our modern world from the world of movies. Overview: In this episode, Dave and Michael discuss Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and its portrayal of America's complicated, diverse, and intersected youth. Timestamps: 00:00 - 20:29 Intro 20:30 - 27:05 Spoiler-free reviews 27:05 - 59:42 Spider-Man across the Spider-verse and Intersectionality 59:52 - End Outro Links and Resources: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9362722/ Social Media Links: Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/mindframesMovies Visit our website:  https://mindframesfilm.com/ Find us on the Now Playing Network: https://www.nowplayingnetwork.net/mindframes

Blackberry is a comedy that won't waste your minutes.

Ari Aster's new surreal film Beau is Afraid is more likely to leave you confused than fearful, but Michael and Dave love it all the same.   00:00 - 00:57    Intro and synopsis 00:57 - 09:14    Is Ari Aster a millennial master? 09:14 - 19:02    Joaquin Phoenix and the cast 19:02 - 24:39    Spoiler Free reviews 24:39 - 33:25    The world construct of Beau is Afraid 33:25 - 36:34    What is wrong with Beau? 36:34 - 42:41    Beau's apartment 42:41 - 47:30    Grace and Roger's house 47:30 - 57:40    The forest 57:30 - 1:10:29    "Home" 1:10:29 - 1:16:11    Beau's Trial 1:16:11 - 1:23:11    Theme's shard with Hereditary

Dave and Michael tackle the outrageous world of "Renfield," a film that follows the comical journey of Dracula's henchman as he tries to break free from what has been reframed in modern terms as a toxic codependent relationship with the notorious Count. Nicolas Cage delivers a full-Cage performance as Dracula. Renfeild offers a feast of side-splitting humor, sometimes literal side-splitting, great performances, and great entertainment that is worth going to a theater to see.  

Dave and Michael recommend five movies from 2022 that you shouldn't miss. We discuss why we chose these and why they scream, "2022." We abuse the word "zeitgeist" for your enjoyment. They are 5. RRR 4. The Batman 3. The Banshees of Inisherin 2. Everything Everywhere All at Once 1. Tar  

A special guest joins the guys for a very serious discussion of WEIRD, a hard-hitting biopic on the late "Weird" Al Yankovic.

The modern zeitgeist seems destined to waver between despair and daring to hope, and "Everything Everywhere All at Once" perfectly dissects that phenomenon. How it does that is our thematic discussion for this excellent film. Timestamp of contents Intro 00:00 - 15-:21 Spoiler-free reviews 15:21 - 22:12 Our Theme discussion: Hope and Despair in "Everything..." And Modern US zeitgeist 22:12 - 1:08:48 Misc Love and nice touches 1:08:48 - 1:16:40 What movies is this like? 1:16:40 - 1:23:02 Outro 1:23:00 - End  

Yeah, we're talking about the movie everyone's talking about this week, but only one podcast has our special guest Sergio Mims.  We discuss Nope, Jordan Peele, and Sergio's shock and horror of the Wakanda Forever trailer. Topics Intro 00-17:54 Cast Discussion 17:54 - 24:47 Spoiler-free Reviews 24:47 -37:21 Theme discussion: Fame, spectacle, and how to tame it 24:47 - 55:08 There is Black film beyond the Peele 55:08 - 1h:09m Michael and Dave talk comic con 1h:09m - 1h:11m Sergio on Wakanda Forever 1h:11m - 1h:25m Outro 1h:25m - End

Peter Strickland bites the art world with less-gross-than-expected and funny Flux Gourmet. Timestamps Intro 00 - 12:41 Is it horror? 12:31 - 15:14 Spoiler-free Reviews 15:14 - 21:59 The Humor of Flux Gourmet 21:59 - 29:54 How Flux Gourmet parodies the elite art world 29:54 - 45:02 Outro 29:54 - End

Timestamps Start - 05:43 Intro 04:53 - 39:55 Reviews 39:55 - 42:42 History of Dinosaurs in movies 42:42 - End Outro   Directed by  Colin Trevorrow ... (directed by) Writing and Directing Credits   Emily Carmichael ... (screenplay by) & Colin Trevorrow ... (screenplay by)  Derek Connolly ... (story by) & Colin Trevorrow ... (story by)  Michael Crichton ... (based on characters created by) Cast Chris Pratt as Owen Grady Bryce Dallas Howard as Claire Dearing Laura Dern as Ellie Sattler Sam Neill as Alan Grant Jeff Goldblum as Ian Malcolm DeWanda Wise as Kayla Watts Mamoudou Athie as Ramsay Cole Isabella Sermon as Maisie Lockwood Campbell Scott as Lewis Dodgson BD Wong as Dr. Henry Wu

Michael and Dave, two men, talk Men, a movie about men written and directed by a man.    Men on IMDB https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13841850/ Men on Rotten Tomatoes https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/men_2022   Times Intro and synopsis 00:00 - 06:17 Is it horror? 06:17-08:49 Spoiler-free Reviews 08:49-13:56 The Alex Garland cannon rankings 13:56-19:11 Spoiler discussion: The bad men in Men 19:11-36:47 Spoiler discussion: What about the woman in Men? 36:47-44:49 Spoiler discussion: What is up with that (those) ending(s)? 44:49-1:05 Outro 1:05-End

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness brings Sam Raimi back from a nine-year-long directorial slumber. Whether he is alive and kicking or a studio zombie, well, we’ll let you decide. Besides Sam, the movie has a plot with many twists and turns, cameo upon cameo, and maybe enough excitement to deliver a light two-hour entertainment experience.  

You won't be alone listening to this!

The boys head down south with some pornographers in a van. We're talking Ti West's fun new horror film X.

“An ambitious carny with a talent for manipulating people with a few well-chosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is.”

Can a room full of dramatic conversation hold your attention? David and Michael agree, but the Oscars do not because they snubbed this superb chamber film.

Drive My Car on IMDB  

Michael and Dave are sick, but somehow make it through a discussion of The Lost Daughter and The Sparks Bros.

We are continuing with December weekly, double-film episodes chronicling Award seasons contenders. This week it is Spencer and The Power of the Dog. Michael and Dave have pretty divergent opinions on Spencer but agree The Power of the Dog is one of the year's best.

Michael and Dave try to make sense of the infinitely interesting and bewildering Titane.

Edgar Wright takes us back to London in the '60s via camerawork and smoking. They might not have been all they were cracked up to be.

Dave and Michael both liked the latest from Paul Schrader, and agreed the strongest aspect of the film is the lead character development and the same's portrayal by Oscar Isaac. DESCRIPTION Redemption is the long game in Paul Schrader's THE CARD COUNTER. Told with Schrader's trademark cinematic intensity, the revenge thriller tells the story of an ex-military interrogator turned gambler haunted by the ghosts of his past. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11196036/

Candyman is the new film from Nia DaCosta that picks up twenty years post-original. We as lovers of the original awake to a new Chicago, one where only a tiny sliver of Cabrini Green lives on, and the legend of our hooked friend is all but forgotten. Fortunately, artist Anthony (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) is there to look in the mirror with us and say his name. Candyman on IMDB

Special Mindframes delivery! The Green Knight will be streaming Thursday on most platforms, so we did an episode. Ralph Ineson will host, and as soon as you finish, you can listen to our out spoiler-filled argument over the ending!

So many words have been used to describe our featured movie this week Annette. Some of these words have included, “bizarre,” “weird” and “Sparks-y,” but what are Sparks and Leos Calax really trying to do here? In this episode, Dave and Michael try and unpack why Annette wants to remind you it’s a movie.

Timestamps 00:00 - 15:00  Intro, cast, and overall recommendations 15:00 - End Spoiler discussion of Pig and loss Discussion Summary Although Nick Cage has come to be known for his over-the-top portrayals and eccentric characters, Pig is an understated journey through one man's grief.  After years of living isolated in the woods with only his trusty eponymous pig to keep him company, save a weekly truffles-for-supplies visit from Amir (Alex Wolff), Robb is forced to confront the world and his past after a brazen kidnapping. Resources Pig IMDB https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11003218/ Nicolas Cage’s Superman screen test, maybe? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvzpNoTnhV4   Corrections Michael meant to say 3000 Miles to Memphis, not 3000 Miles to Vegas. Dave meant to say Ghostrider, not Ghosthunter.

In honor of Richard Donner, Michael watched and David revisited the classic THE GOONIES. It's a little messy by kind of works!

Is there a spiritual element in the struggle of Minari's characters to cultivate an unforgiving Arkansas?

Today, Dave and Michael are joined by a very special guest, Chicago’s very own Robert Daniels! Robert and the guys run down their 2020 Top 10 lists and ruminate on the year that very much was. About our guest Robert Daniels is a Chicago-based critic and is the founder and editor of 812filmreviews. Robert is a contributor to RogerEbert.com, ThePlaylist, Vulture, Consequence of Sound, Polygon, the New York Times, and many others. He can be found at 812filmreviews.com. Contents 0 - 3:30 Intro 3:30 - End Top 10 Discussions  The Top 10's Robert "David Byrne's American Utopia"  "Nomadland"  "One Night in Miami"  "First Cow"  "Night of the Kings"  "Martin Eden"  "I'm Thinking of Ending Things"  "Minari"  "Lovers Rock"  "Time" Dave "I’m Thinking of Ending Things"  "The Invisible Man" "Come to Daddy"  "Bacurau" "Possessor" "La Llorona"  "The Deeper You Dig" "His House" "Scream, Queen! My Nightmare on Elm Street" Michael* Sound of Metal Bacurau Lovers Rock Nomadland I’m Thinking of Ending Things Education David Byrne’s American Utopia Red, White and Blue Wolfwalkers First Cow * So far

Charlie Kaufmann invites you inside a mind-trip of great movie that keeps you interested and guessing. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7939766/  

Special guest Jim Laczkowski stops by to talk about the movie everyone is mooooing over FIRST COW. This will not be the only cow pun.

Three generations of women come to terms with aging, family histories, and maybe more in the debut film from Natalie Erika James, Relic.