The Sleepless Cinematic Podcast

Many Lives To Live: 'Cloud Atlas' (2012) with Emilio's Sister!

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 07:00:00 -0400

For the Twins and Doppelgängers cycle "Mise-Unseen", Madeline, Julian and Emilio strap in and tackle 'Cloud Atlas', the 2012 film directed by The Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer, based on David Mitchell's novel. It features a truly head spinning array of actors playing multiple different characters spanning several centuries, and with help of Emilio's sister Maria-Elena, the group digs into the many different stories, the parallel editing, the way reincarnation seems to return these souls to Earth in new and distinct ways, and the ride that the journeys of these souls take us on. It's a conversation that is critical of some of the choice made in the film, but also very much along for the ride these filmmakers constructed.

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When Life Gives You Orchids: 'Adaptation' (2002) with Michaela Brady

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio welcome back writer, performer, and Julian's longtime friend Michaela Brady to discuss the iconic meditation on the creative process that is "Adaptation" (2002), written by Charlie Kaufman, directed by Spike Jonze, and starring Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep, and Chris Cooper in an Oscar-winning role. As the "View-nanimous" entry in a new episode cycle focusing on Twins and Doppelgangers in film, the group members all re-watch this exceptionally meta movie to discuss its relationship to reality, both in the literary process and its specific characters, as well as how its fusion of sincerity and irony produces an inimitable outcome, and how having a dual performance at the center actualizes the film's messages. And while the main four participants generally praise "Adaptation," they also consider a hot take from friend of the pod Idris Goodwin, for whom the distinct qualities of this film landed a little differently compared to many others.

Follow Michaela Brady on IG @leatrice_write or @jillnjeff11, and check out her writing and blog at leatrice-author.com.

Follow Idris Goodwin on IG at idrisgoodwin, and learn more about his latest book "King of the Neuro Verse" as well as his plays, music, published works, and varied artistic endeavors at http://www.idrisgoodwin.com/

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

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Offbeat Movie Musicals We'd Love To See

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:00:00 -0400

We've spent the last several episodes discussing interesting existing Offbeat Musicals, but what about the ones that we'd love to see get made? For a bonus episode, Madeline, Emilio, Julian, and all the guests from our most recent episode cycle share their picks for movies they'd love to see adapted and turned into "offbeat" musicals, for film or for the stage, or both.

We want to thank our guests for this cycle who joined us to talk movies and share their perspectives and picks!

Will Reynolds - see where he is performing next at his website willreynoldsonline.com and on IG @willcreynolds

Lexi Amoriello - check out her website movierecsbylex.com and on IG, Tik Tok, and YouTube @movierecsbylex

Kelly Autry - follow him on IG: @kelly_a_autry

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If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

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The Movie Musicals of Paul Williams: 'Phantom of the Paradise' (1974), 'Bugsy Malone' (1976), & 'The Muppet Movie' (1979)

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 07:00:00 -0400

To wrap up our episode cycle featuring "Off-Beat Musicals", Madeline, Julian and Emilio close in on a prolific songwriter whose career has notably dovetailed with film over the years: Paul Williams. An unconventional public figure with the gift of gab and an ear for making timeless music, Williams left his mark on the 1970s, penning memorable scores for some truly unique movie musicals. First, we cover 'Phantom of the Paradise', Brian De Palma's 1974 rock musical featuring Williams in a lead role, the nefarious music producer Swan whose deal with the devil sets the stage for a WILD mix of camp, vengeance, and glam rock swagger. Then there's 'Bugsy Malone', Alan Parker's 1976 gangster film satire with a cast of nothing but children, yet another wild ride of fun performances and some era-specific songs. And we wrap up the conversation with a look at 'The Muppet Movie' from 1979, one last off-beat musical featuring puppets with a witty script and several equally clever heartfelt tunes from Williams and collaborater Kenneth Ascher. It's an earnest look back on the work of one of the more influential songsmiths of his era, with an off-beat musical performance of our own just for kicks!

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Walkin' on the Wild Side: 'Velvet Goldmine' (1998) and 'Hedwig and the Angry Inch' (2001)

Wed, 27 May 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Julian, and Emilio continue their cycle of Offbeat Musicals with a "Two-Shot" on a pair of turn-of-the-millennium glam-rock extravaganzas: Todd Haynes' "Velvet Goldmine" (1998) and John Cameron Mitchell's "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" (2001). Marking their fifth - yes, fifth - discussion on a Todd Haynes film, the trio begin by unpacking "Velvet Goldmine" and its refraction of the legacies of 1970s glam-rock icons such as David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, T. Rex, and Roxy Music. Presented in "Citizen Kane"-like fashion, the film conveys a distinct impression of a well-known popular music era without ever mentioning any of the aforementioned artists by name, and wandering in and out of the realms that often classify a musical. Premiering around the same time off-Broadway was the show that would then be adapted into the second film of focus, "Hedwig and the Angry Inch," unambiguously a musical, but one for people who may less typically gravitate to the genre. Drawing from many of the same influences in music, "Hedwig" portrays the unique story of the titular performer, from her fraught upbringing in East Berlin to her stateside music career with backing band the Angry Inch, and the numerous experiences that fan her rock-and-roll flames along the way.

Listen to Dougie's Glam-a-Rama here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOjsoFA6he4_bWfjlCtNFoPf9Xr2cOofn&si=Vth2DPJed7RKNa7x

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So May We Spark(s): 'Annette' (2021) with Kelly Autry

Wed, 13 May 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Continuing with the cycle theme of “Offbeat Musicals”, Julian and Madeline draw from the conception of their friendship with a joint suggestion - Leos Carax’s “Annette” (2021). Joining Emilio as a first-time viewer is actor and puppeteer Kelly Autry, a friend of Madeline’s since tweendom. Our two seasoned Sparks fans share their background with the musical duo, who write and compose the music for this film, and try their best to initiate those who are new to the band’s unique musical style. Although many may know “Annette” as “the Adam Driver puppet musical”, the group digs into themes of originality, self-sabotage, and the nature of performance. Their opinions of the film may vary, but the group agrees that “Annette” becomes richer with a discussion among friends, and in the value of “simple stories expressed unconventionally”, in the words of past guest Shaun Seneviratne.

Kelly Autry is an actor, singer, dancer, and puppeteer, who can be seen performing around New York City. Follow him on IG: @kelly_a_autry

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

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All "Inn" The Family: 'The Happiness of the Katakuris' (2001) with Lexi Amoriello

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

For the "Offbeat Musical" cycle's Mise-Unseen episode, Emilio and Julian come in brick cold (and Madeline a tad less frigid) to their selected film for discussion - 'The Happiness of The Katakuris', Takashi Miike's surreal horror/dramedy/musical from 2001' about a down-on-their-luck family banding together to run a struggling roadside inn, only to endure a string of unfortunate events. They are joined by cinephile and film recommender extraordinaire Lexi Amoriello, who had seen this wacky film before, to get into their initial feelings on this film. The group discusses the subjective role the musical numbers occupy in the story, digest the film's look and feel, share bits from this film's commentary track (notably not easy to find!), examine what messages about family and familial responsibilities run through the film, have fun noticing wardrobe choice, and take part in one of the more freewheeling rounds of Unlikely Shared Universe yet!

Lexi's movie recommendations, a wonderful and much appreciated service to film lovers everywhere, can be found at her website movierecsbylex.com and on IG, Tik Tok, and YouTube @movierecsbylex

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

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Don't Feed The Plants: 'Little Shop of Horrors' (1986) with Will Reynolds

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

This week, Madeline, Julian and Emilio kick off a new cycle dedicated to "Offbeat Musicals" with perhaps the pre-eminent offbeat musical movie: 'Little Shop of Horrors', released in 1986, directed by Frank Oz, featuring standout performances from Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, and Levi Stubbs as Audrey II, anchored by the iconic score from Howard Ashman and Alan Menken. It's a Viewnanimous pick, and they are joined by composer/performer/teacher/great human/"Little Shop" enthusiast Will Reynolds to break down what is weird and wonderful about the film and its music. The group digs into the touching performances, the elite puppetry, its playful yet clear adherences to classic Broadway musical conventions, how the period setting becomes a backdrop for the themes, that very bleak original ending vs. the happy theatrical release ending, and much more!

Will Reynolds is an accomplished composer, coach, and performer. His score for The Violet Hour can be found where ever you stream music. You can follow his goings on, learn about his Inspired Actions Method, and see where he is performing next at his website willreynoldsonline.com and on IG @willcreynolds

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

On Letterboxd? Follow Julian at julian_barthold and Madeline at patronessofcats

Seventy Years of 'Written On The Wind' (1956) with Christian Garcia

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

This week, Emilio, Madeline, and Julian welcome in fellow podcaster Christian Garcia for a bonus episode to discuss 'Written on the Wind', Douglas Sirk's seminal romantic melodrama from 1956 starring Rock Hudson, Lauren Bacall, Robert Stack, and Dorothy Malone in an Oscar-winning performance. This was a first watch for everyone involved, but a welcome initiation to the aesthetic and thematic paths on which Sirk often tread. The group digs into the reach and influence that this film had on modern filmmakers, how the film chooses to portray masculinity, the captivating performances, the blend of genres it manages to balance, and the many subversive touches Sirk sneaks into the film that give it so much staying power.

Christian Garcia is a co-host of the podcast That Ol' Gay Classic Cinema. Along with co-host Luke Delmar, the podcast takes a loving look back at classic films from Hollywood's Golden Age through a queer lens. You can listen and follow @thatolgayclassiccinema

Programming Note: This conversation was recorded in 2025.

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A Neil Simon Rom-Com Trio, with James Codoyannis: 'Barefoot in the Park' (1967), 'The Heartbreak Kid' (1972), and 'The Goodbye Girl' (1977)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Emilio, and Julian are rejoined by film editor and all-around great cinephile hang James Codoyannis to wrap up their cycle of Oscar-Worthy Rom-Coms with a "Close-Up" on three films written by the prolific Neil Simon. For the first "Close-Up" episode devoted to a screenwriter, the group bring their varied histories with Simon's body of work, on screen and on stage, to viewings of 1967's "Barefoot in the Park," directed by Gene Saks, 1972's "The Heartbreak Kid," directed by Elaine May, and 1977's "The Goodbye Girl," directed by Herbert Ross. Despite the common threads of Neil Simon's writing style (such as speedy couplings of main characters, eccentric supporting roles, and impromptu moments of singing), these films make for an eclectic mix; whereas "Barefoot in the Park" channels an of-its-time comedy of errors from stage to screen, "The Heartbreak Kid" thrives on friction between Simon's romanticism and Elaine May's offbeat directorial style, and "The Goodbye Girl" goes back to matching Simon's vision while reflecting a newfound wisdom that comes with age.

All of these films received Oscar nominations or wins in their respective years, most prominently in the acting categories, but awarded or not, they give us memorable performances from Robert Redford, Jane Fonda, Mildred Natwick, and Charles Boyer in "Barefoot in the Park," Charles Grodin, Jeannie Berlin, Cybill Shepard, and Eddie Albert in "The Heartbreak Kid," and Richard Dreyfuss, Marsha Mason, and Quinn Cummings in "The Goodbye Girl," all of whom helped bring Neil Simon's evolving screenplays to life.

Follow James on his socials:

INSTAGRAM: @codboyannis

LETTERBOXD: jcodoyannis

BLUESKY: @codboyannis.bsky.social

WE STRANGERS now available on rent & buy at AMAZON, APPLE TV, and other places

Follow @westrangersthefilm on INSTAGRAM

SEAWEED STORIES now available to watch on Leo DiCaprio's YouTube Channel

Rent/Purchase RON DELSENER PRESENTS at: https://linktr.ee/rondelsenerpresents

Watch BOB OF THE PARK on NYT's Op-Docs Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLQUC7_wtFg

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Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

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Our Rom Com Oscar Snubs

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

We've been breaking down Oscar Worthy Rom Coms for several weeks now, but what about movies that didn't get nominations or wins but absolutely should have? This week, Madeline, Julian and Emilio, along with their guests from our latest cycle, share their picks for romantic comedies that never got the Oscar love they deserved. These selections range from obvious snubs to cult classics misunderstood upon initial release to unapologetic personal picks from the heart.

A huge thanks to our guests this cycle who shared their picks: writer/director Anu Valia, Anna Stone of the film podcast Stone's Top Tens, writer and film programmer David Schwartz, and filmmaker/editor James Codoyannis.

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

On Letterboxd? Follow Julian @julian_barthold and Madeline @patronessofcats

Arrival of an Ingenue: 'Roman Holiday' (1953) and 'Pretty Woman' (1990) with Sydney Duncan

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0400

This week, Julian, Emilio, and Madeline are joined by comedian Sydney Duncan to discuss two films that launched their leading ladies to superstardom - William Wyler’s “Roman Holiday” from 1953 and Garry Marshall’s “Pretty Woman” from 1990. The group draws comparisons both salient and subtle, and examines the aspects of Audrey Hepburn and Julia Roberts’ performances that solidify these roles as their breakouts. The group also discusses the role that class plays in each of these films and the relationships at their center. Among the many similarities, they also observe that one of the best-known scenes in each film features a kindred improvisatory moment.

You can follow Sydney Duncan on Instagram and TikTok @sydneyduncanonem, and catch her on the Maude and Betty house teams at UCB NY.

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

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Remembering Rob Reiner with Matt Friedman

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0500

2025 ended with a real gut punch for us film lovers - the sudden and shocking death of Rob Reiner, alongside his wife Michele Singer. This week, Emilio, Julian and Madeline welcome back friend of the pod and musician extraordinaire Matt Friedman to the table to talk about Reiner and his legacy as one of the most beloved and important American filmmakers of the last forty years. The group discusses some of the famous individual scenes he helmed, unforgettable performances, Reiner's standout moments as an actor, the films of his that are most personally resonant, and much more.

You can check out Matt's incredible band, and see where he is playing next, by visiting their website: https://stilettobandnyc.com/

You can also follow Matt and the band on Instagram @stilettobandnyc

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

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A Human Interest Story: 'Broadcast News' (1987) with David Schwartz

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0500

This week, Madeline, Emilio and Julian continue making their way through Oscar Worthy Rom Coms and tune into 'Broadcast News', James L. Brooks' beloved 1987 film starring Holly Hunter, William Hurt and Albert Brooks. The group is joined by accomplished NYC-based film programmer David Schwartz to discuss at length what is special about this romantic comedy, and the ways in which it is both conventionaly satisfying and also subverting genre expectations. The strong lead performances, Brooks' extensive research of the media and news, the clever writing, the layered characterizations, the "non-ending" ending... the group covers these topics and much more in this enthusiastic discussion about one of the great films of the 1980s.

David Schwartz is a New York-based film curator and writer who is currently the Director of Film Programming at The Barrymore Film Center in Fort Lee. You can read his work and see where and what he is programming next at his website www.david-schwartz.net

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

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'The Apartment' (1960): Keys to Success, RomCom-Wise

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio continue their cycle of Oscar-Worthy Rom-Coms with a Suggestion Box episode focusing on "The Apartment," Billy Wilder's unforgettable multi-Oscar-winning film from 1960. The trio dig into this classic tale of work-related romance by discussing its iconic performances from Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, and Fred MacMurray, the dynamics of the love triangle it portrays, and how the film's transgressive qualities stand the test of time. Anchoring the conversation are a slew of favorable comparisons to other films, new and old, along with appreciations of film's fine-tuned aesthetic details and a tally of a word Wilder and co-writer I.A.L. Diamond clearly relished in, suffix-wise...

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Starry-Eyed Bard: 'Shakespeare in Love' (1998) with Anna Stone

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0500

If podcasting be the food of love, record on! Continuing with their cycle of "Oscar Worthy Rom Coms", Madeline, Emilio and Julian fire up 1998's Best Picture winning 'Shakespeare In Love', directed by John Madden, starring the likes of Joseph Fiennes, Colin Firth, and Geoffrey Rush, with performances by Gwyneth Paltrow and Dame Judi Dench that also won them Oscars. It's a Mise-Unseen episode, so this is the main hosts' first time seeing this movie, but it's a rewatch for their guest Anna Stone, she of the delightful movie podcast Stone's Top Tens. Together the group digs into the historical "fan" fiction conceit of the story, speculate as to why this movie was so well-received when it was first released, turn to an oft-consulted non-fiction book to provide context for its controversial Oscars awards campaign, discuss the many engaging performances, enjoy the film's many nods to modernity, and much more. Anna leaves with some new additions to her watchlist, and everyone leaves with some appreciation for one of the more decorated romantic comedies of the last thirty years.

Anna Stone is the host of the always enjoyable movie podcast Stone's Top Tens. You can follow her and keep up with the podcast on the socials @stonestoptens

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

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Gnomes, Pay Phones and Deux Moulins: 'Amelie' (2001) with Anu Valia

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0500

It's a new year, and Emilio, Madeline, and Julian kick off a new episode cycle of "Oscar Worthy Rom Coms" with 'Amelie', Jean-Pierre Jeunet's 2001 film starring Audrey Tautou that is as well-crafted as it is refreshing and life-affirming. They are joined by a guest that, like the film itself, blends meaningful personal connection with great insight and sincerity - Anu Valia, film/TV writer and director extraordinaire, and a dear friend of Emilio's through high school and college. The group discusses this film's reputation and influence on film students in the 2000s, its delightful focus on small personal quirks and sensory input, how the film deviates from more traditional romantic comedies, the way it feels both timeless and very rooted in the moment and setting it depicts, the film's messages about optimism and human goodness, and so much more!

Anu Valia is a wonderful human and talented filmmaker whose work on shows like Shrill, And Just Like That, Interior Chinatown, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law and Shrinking can be streamed and enjoyed, and her feature film 'We Strangers' can currently be streamed on Amazon Prime and rented digitally where ever you get your movies.

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

On Letterboxd? Follow Julian at julian_barthold and Madeline at patronessofcats

Dolls in Toyland: 'Tangerine" (2015) with Edo Choi

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Madeline, Emilio, and Julian wrap up their cycle of Unorthodox Holiday Movies with a film befitting of a Christmas Eve episode - Sean Baker’s “Tangerine”, released in 2015. Joining Emilio as a first-time-watcher is Edo Choi, Film Programmer at the beloved NYC independent theater, Metrograph. The group reflects on the way this film catapulted Sean Baker to prominence in the cinematic world, and discusses the unique style that comes through via Baker’s use of iPhone cameras. They also take time to appreciate the variety of performances in this film, from newcomers to Baker regulars to social media stars. And, of course, they attempt to answer the question on everyone’s minds: why is this film titled “Tangerine”?

**Programming note: This conversation was recorded approximately ten days before the news of James Ransone’s passing. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this time.

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

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The Criterion Disc Holiday Share

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0500

This week, Emilio, Madeline and Julian make good on something that has been in works for over two years - a conversation about the movies they gifted each other back in 2023! To be specific, these were discs from The Criterion Collection, acquired during Barnes and Nobles summer 50% Criterion sale. Madeline gifted Emilio 'House', Nobuhiko Obayashi's wild inventive horror/comedy from 1977. Julian gifted Madeline 'Being John Malkovich', Spike Jonze and Charlie Kaufman's breakout film from 1999. Emilio gifted Julian 'Ikiru' from 1952, Akira Kurosawa's influential meditation on life and imminent mortality. The group gets a chance to talk spolier free about these three films, what motivated their decision to give what they did, some details and themes that stick out to them about each film, and what kind of cinephile would be ideal recipient of these films. They also take a moment to reflect on their year in podcasting, and gift each other a new Criterion disc to discover in 2026!

Happy holidays listeners, thanks for a great year!

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On Letterboxd? Follow Julian at julian_barthold and Madeline at patronessofcats

There You Are Peter!: 'Hook' (1991) with Rob McClure

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Bangarang! Emilio, Madeline, and Julian fly, fight, and crow their way through this next "Unorthodox Holiday Movie" suggestion, and this is a special one, a movie suggested to them by multiple guests - "Hook", Steven Spielberg's take on the story of Peter Pan, released in 1991 starring Robin Williams, Dustin Hoffman, Julia Roberts and more. The group welcomes back Tony-nominated performer, teacher, father, and "Hook" enthusiast and suggester Rob McClure to discuss this film from all angles. How do you square your experiences with the film as a kid versus revisiting it as an adult? Does Spielberg have good reason to dislike it? How much Peter Pan background is needed to fully enjoy 'Hook', or does it stand alone? The group discusses Spielberg's knack for getting great performances from children, Robin Williams' incredible range, Rufio's undeniable appeal, the elaborate sets, John Williams' underrated score, and its messages related to parenthood. Rob even brings a robust background in the J.M. Barrie's original text (and a collectible trading card) to the conversation, and even pulls out his highlighted copy to try to get to bottom of a pressing question. It's a great discussion about one of the 1990s most rewatched VHS tapes, and more beloved childhood favorites.

Rob McClure has earned Tony nominations for his roles in the Broadway productions of Mrs. Doubtfire and Chaplin, and has also appeared in Something Rotten!, Mary Poppins, Hello Dolly, Beetlejuice, and many more productions On- and Off-Broadway. You can follow him on Instagram @mcclurerob

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

On Letterboxd? Follow Julian at julian_barthold and Madeline at patronessofcats

'Wicked for Good' (2025) Reactions with Down The Yellow Brick Pod and Courtney Iventosch

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0500

This week, Madeline, Emilio and Julian discuss the recently released 'Wicked For Good', the second part of a pair of films that together have brought the beloved Broadway musical to the big screen. After chatting a bit themselves, the co-hosts invite back their guests from last year’s conversation about 'Wicked Part 1' - EmKay and Tara from the popular Oz-themed podcast Down The Yellow Brick Pod, and Courtney Iventosch, a Broadway performer with years of experience in the cast of the stage musical of 'Wicked'. How does this film stack up against Part 1? What do we make of the new songs? Standout performances? Disappointing moments or takeaways? What moments and small details are particularly captivating? And what other musical would they like to see get the spare-no-expense theatrical treatment?

Hear us talk 'Wicked Part 1' with Down the Yellow Brick Pod and Courtney here!https://www.buzzsprout.com/2269866/episodes/16231889

Hear us talk about John Waters' 'Desperate Living' and 'Wizard of Oz'! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2269866/episodes/15109178

Hear us talk early 'Wicked' thoughts and 'Crazy Rich Asians' here! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1172138/episodes/15117944

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

On Letterboxd? Follow Julian at julian_barthold and Madeline at patronessofcats

'Eyes Wide Shut' (1999): Escapade, Cavalcade, Masquerade

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0500

Madeline, Emilio, and Julian continue their seasonal cycle of Unorthodox Holiday Movies with a discussion about "Eyes Wide Shut," Stanley Kubrick's enigmatic final feature from 1999. Marking their first discussion about a Kubrick film, the trio take an appropriately late-at-night stroll journey through the many layers of EWS, including its touches of dream logic, commentary on class and wealth, and what the film has to say about observation and participation in potential acts of transgression, romantic and otherwise. Also along the way are nods to the film's admirable fake New York City, musician-specific considerations about gigs akin to one taken by character Nick Nightingale, and a shout-out to friend-of-the-show Jamie Homs, originally slated to be the guest for this episode.

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

Send us an email at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com

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Dads, Daughters, and the Revolution: "One Battle After Another" (2025) with Brendan McDonald

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 15:00:00 -0500

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio are rejoined by Brendan McDonald, former producer of the iconic podcast WTF with Marc Maron, for a bonus episode about Paul Thomas Anderson's latest masterpiece, One Battle After Another. Kicking off with a check-in on Brendan's life following WTF's end this past October, the group roll through the many hills of PTA's new film, including its roots in Thomas Pynchon's novel Vineland, numerous thematic and aesthetic connections to his greater filmography, and its balancing of political commentary and the personal struggles that coincide. Much time is also spent praising of the film's phenomenal cast, be it Leonardo DiCaprio delivering comic and dramatic beats with equal prowess, Chase Infiniti commanding the screen with her evocative breakout performance, or Teyana Taylor using limited screentime to maximal effect, among other examples. Keeping track of the time and remembering the password, with or without format punch-cards, the group draw from their many combined viewings to highlight a film that truly shines like a beacon with its expansive worldview, sincerity, and attention to detail in the uncertainty-laden present of 2025.

Listen to the WTF archives and look back on the podcast's legacy at wtfpod.com.

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The Worst Noel: 'Black Christmas' (1974) with James Codoyannis

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 13:00:00 -0400

To kick off the latest cycle of "Unorthodox Holiday Suggestions", Emilio brings the original 'Black Christmas', Bob Clark's other holiday themed masterpiece from 1974, to the group just in time for spooky season. Joining the usual three cohosts is James Codoyannis, fellow cinephile and editor for film/TV who worked on the well-received, recently released indie film "We Strangers". The group digs into this proto-slasher classic, highlighting the way this movie is in such great control of its tone and atmosphere, the changing nature of the POV shots, at iconic atonal piano sound design/score, the amazing voice acting work by Nick Mancuso as Billy, and much more. The group also discusses the many ways 'Black Christmas' intersects with and diverges from John Carpenter's 'Halloween', the much more popular and influential slasher film from the 1970s, and discusses the filmmaking decisions that implicate Peter as the killer, and whether or not it works for building suspense. It's a great conversation about what makes 'Black Christmas' such a important entry in the horror canon!

Follow James on his socials:

INSTAGRAM: @codboyannis

LETTERBOXD: jcodoyannis

BLUESKY: @codboyannis.bsky.social

WE STRANGERS now available on rent & buy at AMAZON, APPLE TV, and other places

Follow @westrangersthefilm on INSTAGRAM

SEAWEED STORIES now available to watch on Leo DiCaprio's YouTube Channel

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Found Footage Evolution with Shaun Seneviratne: 'The Blair Witch Project' (1999), 'Creep' (2014), and 'Searching' (2018)

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 13:00:00 -0400

For their Audience Interrogation cycle "Close Up" episode, Emilio, Julian and Madeline hit record and explore a genre that they are, admittedly, not as familiar with: Found Footage Films. They are joined by writer/director/teacher/musician Shaun Seneviratne, a fellow cinephile whose been historically lukewarm on Found Footage films, but enthusiastic to dive in and open minded to the ways this filmmaking style can tell unique, cinematic stories. The group selects three representative films from different eras. First, they unpack 1999's 'The Blair Witch Project', considered the codifier of the genre, and note how the film balances a growing sense of unease with naturalistic, improvised acting and dialogue. Then they discuss Patrick Brice's 2014 film 'Creep', its unavoidable connection to mumblecore, and the ways it intentionally plays with long-standing horror tropes. They complete the conversation digging into 'Searching', Aneesh Chaganty's 2018 screen life thriller that concerns itself with the finding of footage, and manages to capture emotion and intention through computer use in surprisingly effective ways.

Shaun Seneviratne can be found and followed on the socials at thebrownshaun

His feature film 'Ben and Suzanne: A Reunion in 4 Parts' is streaming now on Fandor and available for rent on digital.

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Movies That Scarred Us

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

If you're a lover of movies, there is, without a doubt, a disturbing movie (or several) that you saw when you were too young to process it. With imagery and scenes that have lodged themselves in your brain. And since the memory of the discomfort that movie brought you is still there somewhere, it changed us in a small but meaningful way.

For this bonus episode, Julian, Madeline and Emilio decide to spend some time digging into those movies, and what kind of relationship we have with them now. What movie, ostensibly OK for kids, did not sit well with Madeline? What dark and depraved movie did Emilio mistakenly believe was going to be an action movie? And to end the episode, Julian delves deep into the moment he was subjected to a horror movie he was way too young to see, and unpacks the ripple effects of this premature screening that are still with him today.

The cohosts asked several of their recent guests to chime in too:

- Mariquita Reese @keeta_babe - fellow Criterion Kid and cohost of Post Film Clarity @postfilmclaritypod

- Michael Cramer, Film History professor at Sarah Lawrence College

- Lily Desmond @lilygoddamndesmond - mutli-talented musician known for her work with the band Sloppy Jane and as a solo artist.

- Idris Goodwin @idrisgoodwin - whose new book "King of the Neuro Verse" is available wherever they sell books NOW!

- Shaun Seneviratne @thebrownshaun - musician, film teacher, and filmmaker, with his first feature film "Ben and Suzanne: A Reunion in 4 Parts" available on demand later this month!

- Emily Kay Shrader, cohost of the go-to podcast about all things Oz, Down The Yellow Brick Pod @downtheyellowbrickpod

They also weigh in on the responses they received from our listeners on social media - if you wrote to the pod via our socials, it's here!

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Pursuing the Money Shot: 'Nightcrawler' (2014) and 'Civil War' (2024) with Michael Cramer

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio continue their episode cycle on Audience Interrogation with a "Two-Shot" on Dan Gilroy's "Nightcrawler" (2014) and Alex Garland's "Civil War" (2024), and are joined for the conversation by Michael Cramer, professor of Film History at Julian's alma mater, Sarah Lawrence College. Looking at this surprisingly fitting pair of movies, the group begin by zooming in on "Nightcrawler" and discussing how Jake Gyllenhaal's unforgettable portrayal of a wide-eyed sociopath cements the film's parable about the ethics of procuring and propagating "newsworthy" footage. Then, jumping forward a decade, the group consider the similar questions posed by "Civil War" in its depiction of war photographers navigating the ruins of the United States in a fictional future conflict, along with the polarized reception of its narrative ambiguities.

Michael Cramer is on the Film History faculty at Sarah Lawrence College and is the author of "Utopian Television: Roberto Rossellini, Peter Watkins, and Jean-Luc Godard Beyond Cinema," along with numerous scholarly articles on European Cinema and television.

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Rock and Roll Re-Creation: 'Spinal Tap II: The End Continues' (2025)

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

As a bonus this week, Julian, Emilio, and Madeline gear up for Spinal Tap’s reunion in the new release “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues”. Released 41 years after the previously discussed “This Is Spinal Tap” (1984), this legasequel catches up with our hosts’ favorite semi-fictional heavy metal band. The group points out the impossibly high bar of the first film, and discusses whether or not the sequel is able to successfully callback to the original’s best moments without triggering Emilio’s fan service allergy. The conversation also leads the hosts to theorize about how Christopher Guest spends his downtime - is he bingeing Gilmore Girls, or is he on the deep web?

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Spike Lee's 'Bamboozled' (2000) at 25 with Idris Goodwin

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

For the "Audience Interrogation" cycle's Suggestion Box episode, Emilio, Julian and Madeline go with a pick that's been a long time coming: 'Bamboozled', Spike Lee's unapologetically confrontational satire from 2000 about racial stereotypes and the media. The group welcomes back multi-disciplinary artist, professor, and fellow appreciator of satire Idris Goodwin to the discussion, and consider why, now a quarter of a century after it was initially released, 'Bamboozled' continues to captivate audiences and grow in esteem. They discuss the film as a time capsule of the year 2000, how the mini DV format it's shot on creates a feeling of discomfort, how Spike Lee spotlights multiple forms of black expression in his films, the many cinematic influences the film wears on its sleeve, why Paul Mooney's scene is so pivotal to the narrative, the film's prescient "defense strategy" scene, and much more. It's an earnest and far reaching conversation about why this particular Spike Lee Joint is, whether you like it or not, one of the writer/director's most essential and important works.

Be sure to follow Idris Goodwin on IG at idrisgoodwin. His latest book "King of the Neuro Verse" is available for pre-order and can be found wherever books are sold next month. Additionally, you can follow him and find his plays, music, published works, and varied artistic endeavors at http://www.idrisgoodwin.com/

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Rerelease - 'This is Spinal Tap' (1984)

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

With 'Spinal Tap II: The End Continues' arriving to theaters this week, England's "loudest band" is coming back to the big screen! If you haven't yet listened to it, or would love to remind yourself of what makes the original film such a delight, don't miss our conversation from last year (originally released August 2024), where Madeline, Julian and Emilio dig into Rob Reiner's groundbreaking mockumentary. The group discusses the film's origins, all of the wonderful improvised acting, the ways in which the movie both lampoons and embraces the music industry, the things it borrowed from and what it foreshadowed about music history, as well as the film's absolutely essential commentary track. It was a 40th anniversary chat about this landmark film that you won't want to miss!

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Hindsight is 2020: 'Eddington' (2025) with Mariquita Reese

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Continuing their episode cycle discussing films related to "Audience Interrogation", Emilio, Julian and Madeline strap on their masks, observe social distancing guidelines, and harken back to the recent past with 'Eddington', Ari Aster's darkly comedic Neo-Western and one of 2025's more polarizing and thought-provoking releases. In true lockdown fashion, the cohosts are joined by virtual guest Mariquita Reese, a top-shelf cinema fangirl and cohost of Post Film Clarity, to dig into the film and how it made them feel. The group shares their 2020 experiences and the aspects of that time the film captured, how 'Eddington' compares to other recent films that address Covid and quarantine, the performative nature of almost every character, the biggest (uncomfortable) laughs the film elicited, the unsettling fate of Michael, what to make of the film's violent third act, what other movies 'Eddington' reminds them of and why, and much more!

Follow Mariquita on IG, Tik Tok and Letterboxd at keeta_babe - and check out Post Film Clarity, her podcast with cohost Lindsey Strickland, at postfilmclaritypod

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In Dreams, You're Mine: "Blue Velvet" (1986) with Lily Desmond

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio begin a new episode cycle focusing on Audience Interrogation in film with a "View-nanimous" discussion on David Lynch's 1986 masterpiece "Blue Velvet," and are joined by returning guest, multi-talented musician and fellow Lynch fan Lily Desmond for the conversation. Marking their long-awaited first episode on a Lynch film, the group discuss their formative past experiences with "Blue Velvet" and its undeniable staying power, on account of its simultaneous adherence to and divergence from narrative conventions. As the film famously polarized critics upon release, the group also discuss the surprising watchability of its most unsettling scenes, along with distinctly "American" sensibilities tapped into by Lynch and other offbeat filmmakers of his generation, and the desires which underly the dually transparent and enigmatic actions of the film's main characters, Jeffrey, Dorothy, Frank, and Sandy.

What kind of beer do you like? Heineken or Pabst Blue Ribbon? Let us know here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1r4zRKEPPyh5TrQzLE_vuqnMYFmrNL7IHqvwgPgVoPHU/edit

Listen to Lily Desmond's music on Bandcamp and all other streaming services, and follow them on IG @lilygoddamndesmond

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Goin' Out West: Tom Waits on Film in 'Down By Law' (1986), 'Bram Stoker's Dracula' (1992), and 'The Ballad of Buster Scruggs' (2018)

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio wrap up their cycle of Musicians on Film by diving into the filmography of Tom Waits, once dubbed a "performer, singer, actor, magician, spirit guide, changeling" by the great Neil Young. Joined by Madeline's dad Richard, the trio kick off the conversation by discussing Waits' starring role in Jim Jarmusch's "Down By Law", and ponder the similarities between his character Zack and his well-known boozy troubadour persona. The group then pivots to Francis Ford Coppola's campy classic "Bram Stoker's Dracula", and agree that Waits' interpretation of R. M. Renfield is the necessary constant in such a sprawling film. And although our subject only appears in one of the six vignettes that make up Joel and Ethan Coen's "The Ballad of Buster Scruggs", the conversation would not be complete without taking the time to appreciate Waits' magnetism as the prospector in "All Gold Canyon".

Subscribe to Richard's Substack for pieces on politics, satire, anger, and more at substack.com/@mcmongrel

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Big Feminist Swings: "A League of Their Own" (1992) and "Don't Worry Darling" (2022) with Emilio's Sister!

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:00:00 -0400

For our Musicians-Turned-Actor cycle "Two Shot", Madeline, Emilio and Julian are swinging for the fences with an unexpected pair of films - Penny Marshall's 1992 baseball classic 'A League of Their Own' and Olivia Wilde's 2022 release 'Don't Worry Darling', featuring acting performances by Madonna and Harry Styles, respectively. The cohosts are joined by Emilio's pop culture literate sister Maria-Elena to make some connections between these two films, one a unanimous home run, the other... perhaps a base hit. They discuss the ways each film uses and considers their respective celebrity musician's star power, how both films theme of women's empowerment is conveyed to viewers, the small moments characters have that are meant to convey more, and the moments and details that both delight and leave us with more questions than answers. Doris and Mae are a couple, right? And who between these two films appears to be a "gaslighting gatekeeping girl boss" in waiting?

Listeners: AS A CHILD, WHAT MOVIE LIVED IN YOUR VCR (OR DVD PLAYER) FOR WEEKS AT A TIME? Respond here to this question (or with any other feedback too!), and we'll compile your responses and share our own thoughts in an upcoming episode!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjZUC7GOu2-tOXhnbvtfboNBeSZ9LqLBxkIIUo-keD1eqKew/viewform?usp=dialog

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In the Moon for Love: 'Moonstruck' (1987) with Jamie Homs

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Julian, Madeline and Emilio pop some Asti Spumante and welcome back social media maven and podcast favorite Jamie Homs to talk 'Moonstruck', the beloved 1987 romantic comedy directed by Norman Jewison. A "Suggestion Box" entry from Madeline, the group makes time to highlight the film's musician-turned-actor Cher, and her lauded and iconic turn as Loretta Castorini. The group also dives into the film's universal themes of family, relationships and love, breakdown the multiple love triangles, rave about other sensational performances, enjoy the witty script, and share some of their favorite moments and small details. How many times can we say we were "struck" by something while talking about this film? More than we realized!

Listeners... Is there a movie that you make a point to watch at least once a year? Let us know here, and we'll share your responses on an upcoming episode: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdfR_LEmL8gn-ZVTYtZ30OY-BK3o5rxUEgTKk1PPj_8dF7ILw/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=102380210702143385882

Be sure to follow Jamie Homs! Her awesome film-related content can be found on Tik Tok and Instagram at jamie.homs

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Intergalactic Man of Industry: 'The Man Who Fell to Earth' (1976) with Michaela Brady

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Julian, and Emilio welcome back past guest and Julian's longtime friend Michaela Brady to continue discussing films with Musicians-Turned-Actors, and this time it's a "Mise-Unseen" on Nicolas Roeg's 1976 film "The Man Who Fell to Earth," starring David Bowie in his first acting role. Centered on the titular alien's efforts to harness earthly resources and bring water back to his drought-laden home planet, the film blends its literary world-building with a tone barely seen in films after the 1970s, by way of first-time actor Bowie's naturalism, Roeg's unconventional direction, and an eclectic supporting cast. A first-time watch for all, the group compares this film to others they didn't get on an initial watch, but still found compelling, along with discussing its reflections of the 1970s zeitgeist and dropping plenty of Bowie-related anecdotes, both personal and well-known, along the way.

Listeners - what are some movies you didn't quite understand on first watch, but knew you wanted to come back to? Let us know here, and we'll share your responses on an upcoming episode: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1N6B0AYVGegnis7UYhE82ZDR8AMDvGb-79Yvgo1JT-6I/edit

Follow Michaela Brady on IG @mnbawriter or @jillnjeff11, and check out her writing and blog at michaela-n-brady.com.

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'Jaws' (1975) at Fifty with Mike Duquette

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

This week, Emilio, Julian and Madeline set sail with pop culture writer and Spielberg aficionado Mike Duquette aboard to take on 'Jaws', the landmark film that is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer. The group discuss what makes this film so unique in film history, Spielberg's maturation as a nascent Hollywood director, the ways in which the novel and the film differ, the iconic Oscar-winning score by John Williams, the underappreciated performances throughout, and what modern blockbusters could learn from the stakes and scopes of this story. It's a lovefest for a timeless film that still feels as fresh and captivating today as it did when it first hit theaters a half century ago!

Mike Duquette has worked for Legacy Recordings, Rhino Records, Allmusic, Ultimate Classic Rock, Discogs, Observer, uDiscover Music and Mondo Records, where he penned the liner notes to their 40th anniversary vinyl release of John Williams’ score to E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. He founded The Second Disc, a website devoted to music reissues and box sets, in 2010, and writes about other music, movies and film novelizations at Duque’s Delight.

Listeners... what's your first memory of watching a Steven Spielberg film? Let us know here, and we'll share some of our favorite responses in a future episode: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSehHyTMNV2UaItyxtEr0T6IugLq_Huw6tcb_Nc7cmT5gOXnhg/viewform?usp=header

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'Licorice Pizza' (2021): Life Plans and Stick Shift Vans

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

To kick off a new cycle featuring musicians turned actors, Julian, Madeline and Emilio rewatch 'Licorice Pizza', Paul Thomas Anderson's 2021 film and love letter to the San Fernando Valley circa 1973. Populated with memorable turns from Bradley Cooper, Sean Penn, Tom Waits, Skylar Gisondo, Benny Safdie and others, the film is anchored by the performances of newcomers Cooper Hoffman (son of late great PTA favorite Phillip Seymour Hoffman) and Alana Haim, the youngest of three musician sisters that make up the band HAIM. The group discusses their own personal histories with HAIM, as well as the band's many collaborations with PTA, who directed several of their music videos, They then dig into the unusual friendship dynamic between Gary and Alana, discuss several of the reoccurring motifs, praise the film's visual aesthetic, the many great needle drops, and weigh in the film's polarizing final note. And stick around to the end for an Unlikely Shared Universe first!

Would you rather go into business with Gary Valentine or Max Fischer? Let us know here!: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1e3llPyl0toYj7isVJ_YMRfatMQRzAgfGgtYO7xtSPyo/edit

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Marriage Gory: 'Possession' (1981) with Sylvie Dranoff

Wed, 28 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Emilio, and Julian are joined by Julian’s oft-mentioned cinephile cousin Sylvie for a standalone discussion about Andrzej Żuławski’s singular film “Possession” (1981). Distinctly mixing a drama of romantic turmoil with elements of body horror, spy thrillers, and creature features, “Possession” centers on the alternatively broad and grounded performances of its two versatile lead actors, Isabelle Adjani and Sam Neill, to deliver a film worthy of high accolades yet relegated to obscurity for many years, due to its transgressive content and difficulty to classify. The group break the film down through elements such as its dynamic cinematography and memorable secondary characters, in addition to finding notable comparisons to other films (the Cronenberg name looming large), considering what it's like to flail around in Berlin's U-bahn, and wondering what ever happened to calling people “Bob.”

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Owen Roizman's New York Cinematography, with Special Guest Brendan McDonald: 'The French Connection' (1971), 'The Taking of Pelham One Two Three' (1974), and 'Network' (1976)

Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio are joined by Brendan McDonald, the producer of 'WTF with Marc Maron,' to finish off their cycle of New York City movies with a "Close-Up" on the works of legendary cinematographer Owen Roizman. A versatile visual talent ready for whatever came his way, Roizman burst out of the gate with William Friedkin's crime drama "The French Connection" (1971), in which he unforgettably and frantically photographed a plethora of New York locales. This showcase of his skills made him the perfect choice to shoot "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" (1974), the Joseph Sargent-directed, subway-set thriller infused with workplace humor that indelibly captures a timeless spirit of New York. But Roizman's aptitude also extended beyond the grimy streets and subway tunnels, and rose up to the broadcasting towers of Midtown Manhattan in "Network" (1976), the darkly prescient media satire written by Paddy Chayefsky and directed by Sidney Lumet. Blending their eyes for detail with their lived experience as New Yorkers, the group get into how Roizman's visual sense cemented the iconic status of these films, and why they stand the test of time even as they were made just a few years apart from one another.

To hear Brendan discuss movies and other topics regularly, subscribe to the WTF bonus feed, "The Full Maron," for access to The Friday Show and other bonus material. Learn more at https://www.wtfpod.com/

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Outer Borough Scrambles: 'Good Time' (2017) and 'Anora' (2024) with Mariquita Reese

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

For our "Two Shot" episode featuring New York City movies, Emilio, Julian and Madeline welcome on Mariquita Reese, fellow cinephile and cohost of Post Film Clarity, to talk two recent NYC based films about late night desperation that sends characters racing around the boroughs - the Safdie Brothers' 'Good Time' from 2017 and Sean Baker's 'Anora' from 2024, the current Best Picture winner. The group discusses the depths of Connie's ineptitude and audacity, the ugly truths that the Safdies wanted to keep in the film, the shifting nature of power in both these films, compelling casting choices, why these bummer endings are actually pretty good, Mikey Madison's mastery of insulting with a Brooklyn accent, the going rate these days for a farm in Virginia, how DVD commentaries can redeem a bad movie, why Dick York is the superior Darrin, and much, much more!

Follow Mariquita on IG, Tik Tok and Letterboxd at keeta_babe - and check out Post Film Clarity, her podcast with cohost Lindsey Strickland, at postfilmclaritypod

If you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice. This really helps us find new listeners and grow!

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A "Wedding Banquet" (1993) Companion with NYU Film Professor Zhen Zhang

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0400

For a bonus episode this week, Emilio goes solo for a (mostly) spoiler free talk about a film he really loves, Ang Lee's "The Wedding Banquet". It was a successful and critically acclaimed independent film back when it was released in 1993, but has mostly stayed relevant as its esteemed director's international breakthrough. Yet it's a timeless film full of humor, compassion, and reflections on what we sacrifice of ourselves due to societal forces and the expectations of our families. Its enduring place in cinema history is evidenced by it being reimagined by writer/director Andrew Ahn - this remake can currently be seen in theaters nationwide. Emilio gets into what he enjoys so much about the original, shares his thoughts on the remake and how it is distinct from the original, and speaks with Professor Zhen Zhang, an NYU film professor who shared this film with him in an undergraduate seminar, about Ang Lee's original film.

Professor Zhen Zhang is a film professor at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and the Director of the Tisch's Asian Film and Media Initiative. She has a decades long, decorated career in academia that also includes guest-curating film programs for the Film Society at Lincoln Center of Performing Arts, Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the Women Make Waves Film Festival in Taipei.

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FutureMakerPro: The Surreal Immigrant Experience of 'Problemista' (2024)

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Julian, and Emilio continue their cycle of New York City movies with a "Suggestion Box" entry covering "Problemista," the film debut of director, writer, and actor Julio Torres, known previously for his writing on Saturday Night Live, HBO special "My Favorite Shapes," and co-creating and starring in the supernatural comedy "Los Espookys." Like other films the group have discussed in this cycle, "Problemista" depicts a recent immigrant's struggle to get by in New York City, but through a distinctly contemporary lens that stands out for its surrealism and vivacious humor. In discussing Alejandro "Ale" Martinez's journey towards steady employment and a work visa, the group look in depth at the magical realism throughout (with emphasis on "Craigslist" and "Bureaucratic Limbo"), how people with power use or abuse their privilege, and the enigma that is Elizabeth, Alejandro's erratic presumed employer played by a tour-de-force Tilda Swinton. And perhaps they'll match some databases in FileMakerPro in the process...

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Giddy for Gitl: 'Hester Street' (1975) and its Timeless Charms with Sharyn Rothstein

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

For this cycle's "Mise-Unseen" entry, Julian, Emilio and Madeline fire up 'Hester Street', Joan Micklin Silver's overlooked and under-appreciated film from 1975 depicting the struggles one Jewish family, recently immigrants to the United States, face while assimilating to life in their new homeland at the turn of the century. The trio comment on the film's unique depiction of New York City (particularly in relation to when it was first released), the unusual complexity that most characters are given, how centering Gitl's journey gives the film a strong emotional core, the film's unexpected humor, its portrayal of the working class Jewish immigrant experience class, and why this movie and its story feel so unique. They then have a great chat with Sharyn Rothstein, an accomplished writer who recently adapted 'Hester Street' for the stage, and discuss what was meaningful to her about this story, what details from the film spoke to her, and what the stage production does to modernize and reshape the story for today's audiences. It's a deep dive into an unsung 1970s NYC film you won't want to miss!

Sharyn Rothstein is an award winning playwright, teacher, and writer for television. Her play "Bad Books" is currently running at Roundhouse Theater in Bethesda, Maryland through April 27th. Follow her and her work at www.sharynrothstein.net

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How Go The Dances?: ‘Frances Ha’ (2012) with Maggie Hill

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Emilio, Madeline, and Julian are joined again by freshly-minted New Yorker Maggie Hill, who helps them kick off a new episode cycle focusing on New York City movies. They begin with a "View-nanimous" entry on “Frances Ha”, Noah Baumbach’s 2012 film co-written by him and the film’s star, Greta Gerwig. The four New York residents praise the many accuracies of the film and share their own NYC-specific stories about living as artists, navigating complex social situations, and searching for an ATM with no fee. They also discuss the other “coming-of-age in NYC” media from the zeitgeist of the 2010s, and consider what has changed in the 13 years since this film was released.

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Follow Maggie Hill on IG, TikTok, YouTube, and more @themaggiehill

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Oscar-Winning Comic Roles, with Special Guest Rob McClure: 'A Fish Called Wanda' (1988), 'City Slickers' (1991), and 'My Cousin Vinny' (1992)

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio are graced by the enthusiastic presence of Tony-nominated actor Rob McClure to finish off their episode cycle on Oscar-Winning Supporting Performances with a "Close-Up" about three classic comedic roles, which each garnered their performers the coveted trophies. The first of these would be Kevin Kline's role in "A Fish Called Wanda" (1988), the British-American, Monty Python-adjacent caper where Kline plays the audaciously stubborn diamond thief Otto West. Next is that of Jack Palance in "City Slickers" (1991), the story of three New Yorkers on a cattle-herding vacation in the American West, in which Palance plays their rugged-yet-warm-hearted trail boss, Curly. And rounding out this trio is Marisa Tomei in "My Cousin Vinny," the courtroom dramedy where the titular Brooklyn lawyer is enlisted to represent his wrongfully-accused cousin and best friend in Alabama, depending on crucial contributions from his brash and mechanically-astute fiancée Mona Lisa Vito to work towards their exoneration.

Though all of these films were released in nearby years, the group discusses why these performances stand the test of time, be it due to laugh-out-loud physical gags, the contrast between locals and fish-out-of-water, or the resonant truths at each role's foundation. Aided by Rob McClure's inimitable experience and expert insight about the "actually, actually" that defines a great comic performance, they trace the vast range of humor among these characters and the greater stories in which they appear, making notable stops along the way at unforgettable facial expressions, one-armed push-ups, and scathing instruction-manual retorts.

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Jess LeProtto on his 'West Side Story' Experience

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0500

This week, Emilio, Madeline, and Julian have the privilege of speaking to Jess LeProtto, an accomplished Broadway performer whose triple threat talents earned him the role of the thorny yet memorable Jet "A-Rab" in Steven Spielberg's 2021 remake of 'West Side Story'. Jess talks about his unusual first exposure to the music of West Side Story, the development and audition process, receiving character backstory from the film's Pulitzer Prize winning writer Tony Kushner, and the new historical context specific to the remake. He also talks about performing in the film's immersive sets, working with Rita Moreno, what it's like to take direction from Steven Spielberg, and the unexpected ways his skill set proved quite useful on set. It's a deep dive into all things 'West Side Story' you won't want to miss!

In addition to his work in the film, Jess LeProtto has performed on Broadway in Cats, Hello Dolly!, A Beautiful Noise, Carousel, On The Town, Newsies, Bye Bye Birdie, and more. You can follow him on IG at the_jess_leprotto

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'West Side Story' (1961 & 2021) with Ron Piretti

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0500

For our "Two Shot" episode of Best Supporting Acting Winners, Madeline, Julian and Emilio keep things local, and with the help of actor/teacher/fight director Ron Piretti, they dive into both film adaptations of the beloved musical 'West Side Story'. Both the Jerome Robbins original and the Steven Spielberg remake have the distinction of earning the Best Supporting Actress Oscar in their respective years for their portrayals of the same character, Anita, by Rita Moreno in 1961 and Ariana DeBose in 2021. In addition to exploring what makes Anita such an indelible and celebrated character, the group explores the ways in which the remake expands the world its characters inhabit, discuss which character portrayals they enjoyed the most, how the climactic "Rumble" is depicted on stage vs on film, the effect that differences in the order of musical numbers has on the greater narrative, and much more!

Ron Piretti is a teaching artist for The Barrow Group in NYC, and you can find him and his work at ronpiretti.net

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'L.A. Confidential' (1997): On the Record with Matt Friedman

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0500

This week, Madeline, Emilio and Julian welcome back piano man extraordinaire and film aficionado Matt Friedman to discuss 'L.A. Confidential', the 1997 Neo-noir directed by Curtis Hanson and starring Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, Kevin Spacey, and Kim Basinger in an Oscar-winning supporting role. The group discusses how this movie hits differently if you knew who Crowe and Pearce were upon first watch, how depictions of corrupt police from the 1950s read in 2025, how the film satisfyingly affirms and upends cop archetypes, whether or not Kim Basinger's performance as Lynn Bracken is truly Oscar worthy, and much more!

You can check out Matt's incredible band, and see where he is playing next, by visiting their website: https://stilettobandnyc.com/

You can also follow Matt and the band on Instagram @stilettobandnyc

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Talking 'Dreamgirls' (2006) for One Night Only!

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Continuing their conversations about films featuring Best Supporting Acting Oscar winning performances, Madeline, Julian and Emilio dive into a film they had yet to see: 'Dreamgirls', the 2006 film adaptation of the Broadway musical, starring Jamie Foxx, Beyonce, Anika Noni Rose, Danny Glover, and Jennifer Hudson, whose portrayal of Effie White earned her an Academy Award in her film debut. The group gets into its status as a "film a clef" with many references to Motown history and associated artists, the unstable foundation (narratively speaking) upon which "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going" sits, as well as that song's undeniable power. They dig into the 2007 Oscars win (and snub) that is a huge part of this film's legacy, Beyonce's irrepressible voice, the distracting brief appearance of John Krasinski (looking way too much like Jim Halpert), other possible directors who could have brought this musical to the screen, and so much more!

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Not Everyone's Tempo: ‘Whiplash’ (2014) with Rob Mitzner

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Emilio, Madeline, and Julian are joined by drummer Rob Mitzner to begin a new episode cycle on films featuring winners of the Best Supporting Actor or Actress Oscars, with a "View-nanimous" entry on director Damien Chazelle's 2014 breakthrough film, "Whiplash." Starring Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons, the latter of whom won the requisite Oscar, the film memorably portrays student drummer Andrew Neiman's struggle to impress his autocratic band instructor, Terence Fletcher, and the group filter their own experiences as musicians through their aptitude for cinematic detail to assess the film's spectrum of musical and emotional realism. While "Whiplash" was a hit upon release and highly lauded during awards season, it has always been polarizing among musicians, and some of those differing views are articulated in this very conversation. Plus, did anyone in the group ever have a teacher like Fletcher? Is Miles Teller's drumming accurate? And how do we interpret that unforgettable ending?

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Follow Rob Mitzner on IG @robmitznerdrums, and visit his website, robmitzner.com, to keep up with his live performances and purchase a copy of his book, "Drumming in a Band: Stuff You Can Use."

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We Three ‘Tokyo Godfathers’ (2003)

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Emilio, Julian, and Madeline wrap up their “Holiday Suggestion/Gift Box” mini-cycle with Satoshi Kon’s penultimate work, “Tokyo Godfathers” (2003). Rather than gold, frankincense, and myrrh, our three hosts come bearing different personal histories with the art form of anime. They discuss the benefits and challenges of this storytelling medium, and dive into the burning questions: were the actions that ostracized our protagonists really that bad? What do the serendipitous events of this movie mean? And, of course, could this film have been made as live action?

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'Home Alone' (1990) for the Holidays... with Jamie Homs!

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0500

For Round 2 of our "Holiday Gift/Suggestion Box" mini-cycle, Emilio selects 'Home Alone', the 1990 Christmas holiday classic directed by Chris Columbus and starring Macaulay Culkin, Catherine O'Hara, Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. It's a first watch for Julian, a rewatch for Madeline, and a welcome return visit from our pal Jamie Homs, a musician extraordinaire and social media savvy film enthusiast. The foursome discuss their own personal histories with being left home alone (intentionally and unintentionally) by their parents, and their own curious tendencies when left unsupervised. They get into the god tier John Williams score, the game changing stunt work, and speculate about why this movie has so much staying power and universal appeal. Fan theories are entertained, production trivia is shared. Even a last minute Unlikely Shared Universe entry saliently contends with the value of home. It's a conversation that, like the movie, finds a balance of heart and silliness for all the enjoy!

Jamie Homs' great film-related content can be found on Tik Tok and IG at jamie.homs

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'Wicked' (2024) Reactions with Down the Yellow Brick Pod and Courtney Iventosch

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0500

For a bonus episode this week, Madeline, Emilio and Julian call on some buddies to help them process and deepen their initial appreciation of the highly anticipated, record breaking movie of the moment, 'Wicked'! After sharing their first reactions to the film, the group welcomes pals and Oz experts EmKay and Tara from Down the Yellow Brick Pod to get their thoughts, assessments of what worked best, how the fanbase is receiving the film, and little details that populate the movie that you might have messed. And what happens when you see this movie in 4DX? Then the trio speak to Courtney Iventosch, a Broadway performer and veteran of the 'Wicked' musical, for her opinions, considerations of the stage-to-screen adaptation, and the way the film's leads are characterized compared to the musical. It's a fun dive into the worlds that both birthed the film and currently celebrate it!

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'Carol' (2015): A Very Todd Haynes Christmas

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio kick off their "Holiday Suggestion Box" episode cycle by discussing "Carol" (2015), the great Christmastime-set queer romance directed by Todd Haynes, holding up his title as the most-covered director on the podcast. A re-watch for Madeline and Julian and a first-time viewing for Emilio, the group discuss such topics as the film's status as an adaptation (of Patricia Highsmith's "The Price of Salt"), why it works as a holiday movie, and its balance of finely tuned 1950s period detail and the timeless appeal of its love story. Additionally, utilizing their refined attention to Todd Haynes' distinct touches as a director, Madeline praises the film's affecting portrayals of complex female characters, Emilio touches on Haynes' delicacy with varied male archetypes, and Julian points out some highlight moments of the film's subtly expressive visual language.

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Flicky Dick: 'Nixon' (1995), 'Dick' (1999) & 'Frost/Nixon' (2008) with Madeline's Dad!

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0500

To end their "Politics" cycle, Madeline, Julian and Emilio put a different spin on their Close Up episode format by looking at three different actors' portrayal of one real-life political figure, former President Richard M. Nixon. The group welcomes in another Richard - Madeline's dad! - a retired history teacher and Watergate buff, to give these films and performances some important historical context. They discuss Oliver Stone's sprawling biopic 'Nixon' from 1995, the several stages of Nixon's political and private life depicted with impressive realism by Anthony Hopkins, and what is gained and lost when a film has such a wide scope. Next is 'Dick', Andrew Fleming's 1999 farcical reimagining of the Watergate scandal with Dan Hedaya as Nixon, where the group discusses the importance of mining politicians for humor. They close their discussion with a look at Ron Howard's 2008 film 'Frost/Nixon', featuring Frank Langella as Nixon, and consider where and when its helpful for creative liberties to be taken to depict real-life people and events. Be sure to stick around for a lively round of Unlikely Shared Universe!

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Disengaged in '68: 'Medium Cool' (1969) & 'Shampoo' (1975) with Sydney Duncan

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Madeline, Julian, and Emilio welcome NYC-based comedian, writer, and actress Sydney Duncan to continue their "Politics" episode cycle with a "Two-Shot" discussion on 1969's "Medium Cool" (dir. Haskell Wexler) and 1975's "Shampoo" (dir. Hal Ashby). Though differing on surface level, the two films bear striking similarities in their portrayals of apathy to politics in the face of the 1968 presidential election, focusing on egotistical male protagonists more invested in their jobs and tumultuous love lives than the far-reaching events occurring around them. The group begins by discussing the ingenious commentary that "Medium Cool" offers on media and class, with its Chicago-set blend of fiction and documentary and fortuitous backdrop of the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Shifting gears to "Shampoo," they then discuss that film's seeming juxtaposition of its characters' sexual promiscuity and their political context over roughly thirty-six hours in Los Angeles during the aforementioned election, along with the film's status as a self-ordained vehicle for star/co-writer/co-producer Warren Beatty. Aided by numerous piercing insights from Sydney and loads of fun trivia and personal stories, the group dives deep into these oddly similar films while finding many notable zeitgeist connections (in film and otherwise) along the way.

Follow Sydney Duncan on IG @syndeyduncanonem, and get tickets to her one-woman show, "ACAB: Angry, Crazy, and Black," at Brooklyn Art Haus on Sat 11/16 @7pm! https://www.stellartickets.com/o/brooklyn-art-haus--2/events/angry-crazy-and-black-sydney-duncan-live-at-bah/occurrences/482afbbd-3b3f-45d3-a26b-8645025eb5ea

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The Demagogue in Denim: 'A Face In the Crowd' (1957) with Maggie Hill

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

For their Politics-related "Suggestion Box", Madeline, Emilio, and Julian invite social media professional and film lover Maggie Hill to a conversation about Elia Kazan's 'A Face In The Crowd', a film from 1957 whose observations about television, mass persuasion, and political ambition seem more relevant today than ever. Emilio starts the discussion with how the filmmakers' personal and professional experiences with the Hollywood blacklist most likely influenced this cynical look at American institutions. Madeline notes how the film's central figure Lonesome Rhodes is wildly different than the wholesome persona the actor who plays him, Andy Griffith, would eventually cultivate on his beloved eponymous TV show. Julian sees the ripples of this film in several other films about fame and personal connection. Maggie sees the film's female lead Marcia and her ambition as the skeleton key to a deeper understanding of the film. These, and many other observations, ground a discussion about 'A Face In The Crowd' and its place among the more interesting and enduring films to emerge from the 1950s Hollywood.

Maggie Hill is a writer/director/producer whose thoughtful content about media can be found on the socials: @themaggiehill

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'Night of the Living Dead' (1968): Zombie Ground Zero

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Julian, and Emilio mark this year's Halloween season with a bonus conversation on George A. Romero's genre-defining 1968 Horror film "Night of the Living Dead." A first-time viewing for each of them, the group trace the details of the film that have made far-reaching ripples in the Horror genre and Zombie subgenre ever since, aided by Madeline's comprehensive walkthrough of the history of zombies in film and television. They discuss the admirable markers of the film's limited budget, the human elements that make it relatable, and its likely unintentional resemblance to fellow films of the then-burgeoning New Hollywood Era, with numerous fun facts and personal revelations along the way.

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Spin Dog-tors: 'Wag the Dog' (1997) with Idris Goodwin

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Emilio, Madeline, and Julian continue their "Politics" episode cycle with a "Mise-Unseen" entry on Barry Levinson's 1997 film "Wag the Dog," and are joined to do so by special guest Idris Goodwin - a playwright, educator, fellow cinephile, and significant role model from Emilio's Chicago upbringing. The group get into the movie by discussing its place in the canon of mid-budget 90s studio films, as well as in the greater careers of its heavy-hitting stars, Robert De Niro and Dustin Hoffman. Looking more broadly, they also consider the category of satire that "Wag the Dog" falls into, and of course its famously prescient view on the handling of political scandals, and eerily good timing in doing so.

Idris Goodwin is currently the Artistic Director at the Seattle Children's Theatre, and Board President of TYAUSA, a member organization committed to live theater in the lives of children everywhere. You can follow him and find his plays, music, published works, and varied artistic endeavors at http://www.idrisgoodwin.com/

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Voting for Pedro: The Simple Charms and Politics of 'Napoleon Dynamite' (2004)

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

To usher in a new cycle on "Politics", Julian, Emilio and Madeline soft pedal their way into the theme by way of discussing Jared Hess's 2004 debut feature film 'Napoleon Dynamite', a high school movie featuring socially maladjusted yet charming teenagers, tater tots, rural Idaho, airborne food, fraudulent internet purchases, non-fraudulent internet dating, and yes, an election for class president! After a conversation about the film's gentle, family-friendly humor and off-beat style that continues to win over audiences of all ages and generations, the trio dives deep into the specifics of presidential race of Summer Wheatley vs Pedro Sanchez. Their campaigns, their platforms, the speeches, the outcome, the electorate of Preston High, other political comparisons - no stone is left unturned. Stick around for a lively Unlikely Shared Universe, and for real time contributions from Dougie about the cast's love lives and an eBay purchase that influenced one of the movie's wackiest scenes.

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That Thing He Did! Adam Schlesinger's Music in 'That Thing You Do!' (1996), 'Josie and the Pussycats' (2001), and 'Music and Lyrics' (2007)

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

To close out the "Musicians on Film" cycle, Julian, Madeline and Emilio dig into the work of ace songwriter Adam Schlesinger, focusing on catchy pop songs he penned for three films - 'That Thing You Do!' (1996), 'Josie and the Pussycats' (2001), and 'Music and Lyrics' (2007). Emilio and Julian break out guitars to point out some of the little details from early 60s rock n'roll and beyond that made their way into "That Thing You Do!", the irrepressible hit single from the movie of the same name. The trio gets into how 'Josie and the Pussycats', and by extension Schlesinger's contribution "Pretend to Be Nice", both sends up the early 2000s music pop landscape and predicts the female punk pop explosion that was around the corner. And the group gets into what works, and what doesn't work as well, in the execution of "Way Back Into Love", the song at the center of 'Music and Lyrics'. All the while, discussions about the movies themselves supplement a lively conversation about Schlesinger and his most enduring cinematic bangers.

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The Times They Were a-Filmin': Bob Dylan in 'Dont Look Back' (1967) and 'I'm Not There' (2007)

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Julian, and Emilio continue their "Musicians on Film" episode cycle with a "Two-Shot" entry on a pair of unforgettable cinematic portrayals of Bob Dylan, namely D. A. Pennebaker's trailblazing 1967 documentary "Dont Look Back" (apostrophe not included), and Todd Haynes' kaleidoscopic 2007 film "I'm Not There." As two of many films out there which focus on the enigmatic musician, the group aims to distill from them whatever greater truths they can, both about Dylan himself and broader musical artistry and publicity. Starting with "Dont Look Back," they consider how the film's fly-on-the-wall look at Dylan's 1965 tour of England serves to dually build the legend and arguably demystify its young and newly famous subject. They then fast-forward forty years to "I'm Not There," which refracts Dylan's well-established mythos into a sprawling, non-linear ensemble drama that illuminates as much about the artist as it obscures. The two films also mark milestones for the podcast itself, the former being the first documentary which the trio cover in-depth, and the latter being the third Todd Haynes film they've discussed, making him the most-covered director on the show to date.

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'This is Spinal Tap' (1984): This Conversation Goes to Eleven!

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

For the Suggestion Box entry to the "Musicians on Film" cycle, Julian, Madeline and Emilio emerge from seed pods and go one louder for a conversation about 'This is Spinal Tap', Rob Reiner's hilarious and influential mockumentary from 1984 chronicling the US tour of England's loudest band. The trio dig into the film's origins, the improvised acting, the ways in which the movie both lampoons and embraces the music industry, the things it borrowed from and what it foreshadowed about music history, as well as the film's absolutely essential commentary track. It's a lively discussion that touches on the many things that make 'This is Spinal Tap' such a fun film for musicians and non-musicians alike.

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Down the Envy Drain: 'Saltburn' (2023) with Michaela Brady

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio are joined by writer, performer, cultural connoisseur, and Julian's longtime friend Michaela Brady, for a bonus episode on Emerald Fennell's recent shock-laden estate film "Saltburn." Aided by Michaela's regional expertise as an alum of Oxford University (and current resident in said city), the group dive into the workings of this anti-hero-centric film, praising such details as its visuals and soundtrack while devoting careful attention to its narrative details. Throughout this experience, they consider the film's treatment of themes such as shock value and social class in the UK, as well as its place in the broader "Estate" genre, and how it compares to other films of a similar sort...

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Follow Michaela Brady on IG @mnbawriter or @jane_n_jeff, and check out her writing and blog at michaela-n-brady.com.

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'Mo' Better Blues' (1990) Makes It Mo' Better

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week, Emilio, Julian, and Madeline continue their cycle about “Musicians on Film” with an oft-overlooked Spike Lee Joint, “Mo’ Better Blues” (1990). While this film may be quite a shift from “Do the Right Thing” only a year before, our hosts discuss commonalities (and possible shared universes?) between the two films and the director’s filmography at large. They discuss the film’s exploration of the personal and romantic lives of musicians, a portrayal these three may have a vested interest in. And it seems they may agree that “Mo’ Better Blues” gives us Denzel Washington at the very height of his sex appeal…ya dig?

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Appreciating 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial' (1982) with Mike Duquette

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

For this bonus episode, Emilio, Madeline, and Julian power up a communicator and call on the presence of Mike Duquette, an out-of-this-world pop culture writer based in Astoria, NY, to discuss Steven Spielberg's evergreen classic 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial'. Mike brings his encyclopedic knowledge of all things 'E.T.' for a panoramic look at the film and its legacy. The group covers the film's personal and inauspicious origins, its unusual (at the time of its release) foregrounding of children and childhood, the best-selling film novelization (and its authorized sequel?!), its status as a rare box-office behemoth that's also a stand alone movie, the Oscar-winning score by John Williams, and the little details that make 'E.T.' a film for the ages.

Mike Duquette has worked for Legacy Recordings, Rhino Records, Allmusic, Ultimate Classic Rock, Discogs, Observer, uDiscover Music and Mondo Records, where he penned the liner notes to their 40th anniversary vinyl release of John Williams’ score to E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. He founded The Second Disc, a website devoted to music reissues and box sets, in 2010, and writes about other music, movies and film novelizations at Duque’s Delight.

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'Nashville' (1975): Altman's Sprawling Masterwork

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Kicking off a new episode cycle about "Musicians on Film", Julian, Emilio and Madeline hop on a three-wheeled motorcycle and revisit a movie they've previously seen and admired: Robert Altman's 1975 epic 'Nashville', a five-day, criss-crossing journey through the country music capital. The trio do their best to make sense of the many disparate things that take place in its unusual narrative, and discuss scenes and characters that have outsized importance in their own personal experiences watching the film. They discuss at length the film's many musician/actors, the songs they sing (many they wrote themselves), and the respect to the work Altman demonstrates in showing most of these musical performances in full. With three down and only two best picture nominees from 1975 left to discuss, might there be plans to discuss all of them before long?

DISCLAIMER: While they are current events related to our discussion of 'Nashville', the passing of actress Shelley Duvall and the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump are not discussed here because this conversation was recorded before either incident took place. R.I.P. Shelley Duvall

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High School Cycle Recap + Superlatives!

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

For this bonus episode, Julian, Madeline and Emilio reflect on the high school based films that were discussed over the last few months. Are there any shared characteristics between them? What about a high school setting makes for interesting, relatable stories? Lastly, the trio assigns superlatives to several of the memorable characters from the nine films they watched. Cutest Couple? Life of the Party? Best Athlete? Best Dressed? Friendliest? Arguments are made for these categories and several more!

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Heckerling High: 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High' (1982), 'Clueless' (1995), and 'Loser' (2000)

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Emilio, Madeline, and Julian finish off their cycle on High School Movies with a "Close-Up" on the great director Amy Heckerling, and a selection of her school-based films. The trio kick it off with 1982's "Fast Times at Ridgemont High," Heckerling's directorial debut and an unforgettable ensemble comedy/drama with a Cameron Crowe-penned script and career-defining performances from many of its stars. To follow, they then take a look at 1995's "Clueless," Heckerling's mid-90s, Beverly Hills-set adaptation of Jane Austen's "Emma," and a trendsetting masterpiece influential to many later movies set in high school and beyond. And to finish off, the trio shed some light on 2000's "Loser," a college film to punctuate the episode cycle, and one that may have done better critically and at the box office had Amy Heckerling been allowed more autonomy in its production.

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Last Chance To Party: 'Superbad' (2007) and 'Booksmart' (2019)

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

For the latest "High School" cycle episode, Julian, Madeline and Emilio revisit two beloved "one crazy night" teen/buddy comedies, Greg Mottola's 'Superbad' and Olivia Wilde's 'Booksmart'. The trio gets into what really works, and some of what doesn't work as well, in these two iconic films. While there are striking (and well documented) similarities between these two films, there are also notable differences. They discuss the performances of the young leads, what the presence of social media adds to one of these films, how these films present immature adults, and how common it is to be in an unbalanced friendships during your teen years. Madeline talks about the censored scene in 'Superbad' that she just saw for the very first time. Emilio shares his experiences being present at test/preview screenings for both of these movies. Julian sees a great opportunity (and name) for a current troupe of actors to identify as and adopt. And it's an Unlikely Shared Universe you won't want to miss!

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"How Very" - The Unlikely Persistence of 'Heathers' (1989)

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week, Emilio, Julian, and Madeline break out the croquet mallets and slushies for a discussion of 'Heathers', the 1989 high school dark comedy starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater. This is as formative a movie as there can be for Emilio, who can't help but speak with admiration for this cult classic. They dig into the film's satirical approach to the subject matter, its prescience about a future with rampant school violence, the star-making turns for the film's lead actors, and consider several cinematic predecessors and successors with similar themes and stylistic choices. Julian graces us with another impersonation and a few outside-the-box character comparisons. Madeline has lingering questions about Veronica's true nature. Emilio shares why the college party might be the most important scene in the movie. It's a conversation filled with exploration and earnest appreciation for one of the more influential high school movies of the 1980s.

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Tell Me More, Tell Me More: 'Grease' (1978) with Jamie Homs

Thu, 30 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Julian, and Emilio are joined by guest Jamie Homs as they continue their High School Movies cycle with a "Suggestion Box" episode on the original high school musical, Randal Kleiser’s “Grease”. While Madeline and Jamie have lost count of the number of times they’ve visited Rydell High, Julian is coming in with fresh eyes as a first-time viewer! Does the magic of this bright and peppy classic work without the nostalgia of watching it as a kid? The group discusses the characterization (and debated lack thereof) of the Pink Ladies and T-Birds, assisted by a former Rizzo herself! And of course, no conversation would be complete without discussing the ultimate “Grease” conspiracy - did she really drown?

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We Saw the TV Glow, featuring Lily Desmond of Sloppy Jane!

Mon, 27 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Julian, Madeline, and Emilio are joined by Lily Desmond of the band Sloppy Jane to venture into the midnight realm with a discussion on the new film "I Saw the TV Glow." The group dive into its portrayals of such themes as media obsession, personal identity crisis, and co-dependency, along with its abundance of music, aided by Lily's perspective on Sloppy Jane's presence in the film. They also discuss which experiences in their lives most closely resemble main character Owen's relationship with the Pink Opaque, and reminisce about the television shows with clear homages in the film, bookended by comparisons both apparent and "unlikely..."

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'Desperate Living' (1977) + 'Wizard of Oz' (1939) featuring Down the Yellow Brick Pod!

Wed, 22 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week, The Sleepless Cinematic Podcast joins forces with Down the Yellow Brick Pod hosts Emily Kay Shrader and Tara Tagliaferro, two of the world's leading experts on all things Oz, to discuss one of the more bizarro films ever to be influenced by 1939's classic 'The Wizard of Oz' - the third and final installment of John Waters' trash trilogy, 1977's 'Desperate Living'. Emily and Tara come to this film with plenty of Oz-related background, and weigh in on several of the homages that Waters seems to have snuck into this film: a demented "Over the Rainbow", dropped "houses", an "effed-up" Oz/Munchkinland, witches wreaking havoc, villains having a lot of fun, and much, much more!

Please check out our conversation with Emily and Tara on Down the Yellow Brick Pod about 2018's 'Crazy Rich Asians' and the Oz-related themes that its director John M. Chu, who's directing the theatrical release of 'Wicked', managed to knowingly or unknowingly incorporate.

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'Fame' (1980): Four Years That Will Live Forever

Wed, 15 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Emilio, Madeline, and Julian continue their High School Movies cycle with a "Mise-Unseen" entry on Alan Parker's 1980 classic, "Fame." Coincidentally a film that none of the trio had seen previously, they look in depth at its ensemble-based depiction of a full four years at New York City's High School of the Performing Arts. Amidst their many talking points, Julian brings a unique perspective to the film as the native New Yorker of the group, while Emilio spins a discussion from the film's "Rocky Horror Picture Show" sequence, and Madeline grades the vowels of every choir singer we see on screen. All three also continue relating their own high school experiences to those shown in the film, and revel in the details of its iconic "Hot Lunch Jam" and street-dancing sequences. They hope it'll be the best experience possible, but whatever you think, one thing's for sure: they just wanna dance!

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'Dazed and Confused' (1993): We Get Older, It Stays The Same Age

Wed, 01 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Alright, Alright, Alright! This week Julian, Madeline and Emilio kick off their newest cycle of High School movies by revisiting a 90s favorite about the 70s, Richard Linklater's 'Dazed and Confused'. The trio looks back on their own time in high school, and discuss what this movie gets right about this time in life. What signature Linklater touches are present in this movie? Which of the film's impressive ensemble performances stand out, and which ones leave something to be desired? What's the deal with all the hazing? Is Milla Jovovich really playing that guitar? Which of the several great needle drops is most satisfying? And which of these characters do each of the co-hosts relate to the most?

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Unpacking 'Unbreakable' (2000) with Matt Friedman

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Bonus episode! Emilio, Madeline and Julian are joined by esteemed NYC musician and bandleader Matt Friedman to discuss one of his favorite films, M. Night Shyamalan's 'Unbreakable'. The quartet dig into the many fun aspects of this film - the great camera work and the influence comic book imagery has throughout, its status as a revisionist superhero movie, the abundant color symbolism, how its twist ending is still so effective (in spite of being there the whole time in retrospect), and much more. The group end with a highlight round of Unlikely Shared Universe, that features leaps in time, actual leaps, and a particular brand of nautical nonsense.

Spoiler alerts for this film, as well as M. Night's related films 'Glass' and, to a lesser extent, 'Split'.

Be sure to check out Matt and his fantastic band Stiletto on IG:
@stilettobandnyc

and at the band's website:
www.stilettobandnyc.com

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John Cazale: An Actor You Can't Refuse

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

To wrap up their cycle on "Unique Best Picture Winners," Julian, Emilio, and Madeline take a deep dive into the life and work of the great actor John Cazale. Best known as Fredo Corleone in "The Godfather" Parts I and II, Cazale appeared in only five feature films in the 1970s before his untimely passing. However, all five of those films became iconic, both in and beyond his lifetime, and made Cazale a mainstay of the Best Picture Oscar category in the process. On top of the first two "Godfather" films, Cazale also starred in Francis Ford Coppola's "The Conversation" (1974), Sidney Lumet's "Dog Day Afternoon" (1975), and made his final appearance in Michael Cimino's "The Deer Hunter" (1978). The trio touch on all five films, focusing in depth on three of them, to appreciate the immense quality of Cazale's acting in the limited quantity of his career, and make external connections and speculations of what Cazale may have gone on to do had he lived longer.

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State of Disgrace: 'Crash' (2005) and 'Green Book' (2018)

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

For our Unique Best Picture Winner "Two-Shot" episode, Madeline and Julian finally see (and Emilio rewatches) two of the more upsetting upset winners of the Academy Award's last twenty years, Paul Haggis' passion project 'Crash' and Peter Farrelly's mismatched-buddy-road-trip picture 'Green Book'. They reflect on what social conditions existed that might have led to their ascension to Best Picture consideration, as well as what was internal (and in some cases endemic) within the Academy that put these films over the top. The trio is firmly in agreement that the racial themes of 'Crash', while important to consider, are handled so poorly and lazily rendered on screen. With very few exceptions, the redeeming qualities of 'Crash' are practically non-existent. And while Emilio agrees with the others that 'Green Book' is not Best Picture worthy, he makes a case for why this movie is a little better than its current reputation would have you think it is.

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We're Talking Here!: 'Midnight Cowboy' (1969)

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Madeline, Julian, and Emilio continue their cycle on Unique Best Picture Winners with a "Suggestion Box" episode on the 1969 classic "Midnight Cowboy," the first and only X-Rated film to win the top Oscar. As the oldest film the trio have covered to this point, they each think it holds up spectacularly in numerous ways, such as its frenetic dual portrayals of youthful desire and repressed trauma, its iconic needle drops with Harry Nilsson's "Everybody's Talkin'," and Dustin Hoffman's inimitable overbite. Aided by myriad anecdotes along the way on the film's production and release, director John Schlesinger's greater filmography, and, as it just so happens, Emilio's freshman year at NYU, the trio follow in the footsteps of Joe Buck and Rico "Ratso" Rizzo (luckily without being forced to yell "I'm walkin' here!") and go where the filmic sun keeps shining through the pouring rain.

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The "Oppenheimer" Part of Barbenheimer

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

While they cycle through Unique Best Picture Winners, Julian, Madeline and Emilio take a moment to reflect on the most recent Best Picture Winner (and recipient of six other Oscars), Christopher Nolan's 2023 mega-hit 'Oppenheimer'. After some thoughts on this last Sunday's Academy Awards, they dive into the movie. Would it qualify as a unique Best Picture winner? What is it about this movie that feels timeless and timely? They cover the cagey nature of Nolan as interview subject, the film's exceptional writing, the surprising amount of children actors from Nickelodeon series to stay off the cutting room floor, and praise the performances and careers of Benny Safdie and David Krumholtz, amongst others!

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Both Sides Now: 'CODA' (2021) and its Dualities

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0500

For this cycle's "Mise-Unseen" entry, Madeline, Emilio and Julian finally pony up for Apple TV Plus subscriptions and see 'CODA', Sian Heder's 2021 Best Picture winning film. Like the Joni Mitchell classic at the heart of this film, the trio can't help but see both triumphantly good and puzzlingly frustrating aspects to 'CODA'. For all the powerful and winning scenes with the Rossi family (that scene on the pickup truck!), there are clunky and shallow ones with most every other peripheral character. For all the great ways this film centers and empowers its deaf actors and main characters, it also short changes the viewer with an overly predictable narrative. And this group of musicians can't help but weigh in on the music plot line. From up and down, and still somehow, there is genuine appreciation for this film, but not without some nits to pick.

For those who are deaf or hearing impaired, a full written transcript for this episode can be found on this episode's Buzzsprout link!
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2269866/14621363

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Having an Old Film for Dinner: 'The Silence of the Lambs' (1991)

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500

To coincide with Oscars season, Julian, Emilio, and Madeline begin a new episode cycle on Unique Best Picture Winners with a "View-nanimous" on 1991's The Silence of the Lambs. Hear them discuss the myriad qualities that distinguish this movie, such as its aesthetic innovations, presciently macabre subject matter, and advancements in filmic portrayals of feminism, all while trying to pin down its place in a distinct cross-section of genre and critical esteem. And keep your ears open for some favorite moments of acting and camera subtlety, a certain co-host's Hannibal Lecter impression, and a nod to a music/movie ending crossover that knows no limits...

A 'May December' (2023) chat + some Oscars talk

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500

With the 96th Academy Awards a little less than a month away, Julian, Madeline and Emilio share their first impressions and some opinions about 'May December', a movie that didn't get the Oscars love most thought it would receive upon its release. They note that the ambiguous interpretations of motivation and behavior favorably reminds them of Haynes' (previously discussed on this podcast) film 'Safe'. They also comment on the film's interrogation of viewer desires, and how that theme situates it amongst several other films released in 2023. Then, Julian and Madeline have a back and forth about the Best Picture race, and share personal anecdotes about some of their favorite films nominated this year.

Perceptions of Sanity: The Episode Cycle Recap

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500

A Bonus Episode! Madeline, Emilio and Julian reflect on the last several weeks' films - what they have in common with each other, how different they actually are when dealing with "sanity" or "insanity", and some of what they learned by considering the same things while watching several different films.

A BIG thanks to all of you who have listened to these episodes!
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'Divine' Intervention with Anthony Hollock

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Emilio, Madeline, and Julian welcome their first guest Anthony Hollock for a “Close-Up” on the life and work of the one and only Divine. For the final episode in their “Perceptions of Sanity” cycle, the group looks at Divine’s career-spanning collaboration with John Waters with a focus on 'Multiple Maniacs', 'Pink Flamingos', 'Polyester', and 'Hairspray', while making some stops along the way to discuss turns in non-Waters films such as 'Lust in the Dust' and 'Trouble in Mind'. Hear them trace the arc of Divine’s initial bombast to later subtlety, with myriad reactions along the way. Plus, why does Anthony feel like he’s lived in a John Waters movie? What record does 'Pink Flamingos' set for Julian? And who in the group was a “hair-hopper”?

Love is Bind: 'Secretary' (2002) & 'Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!' (1990)

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0500

This week for their Two Shot episode, Emilio, Madeline, and Julian set their sights on a pair of unconventional, challenging, and highly self-aware movies about falling in love: Steven Shainberg's 2002 film 'Secretary' and Pedro Almodovar's 1989 release 'Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!' While discussing 'Secretary', Emilio details a personal story about discovering and appreciating this unusual film. The trio have a lot to say about Maggie Gyllenhaal's star-making performance as the main character Lee, the ways in which the film references several romantic comedy tropes, and express their approval of a "Wash and Dine" business. When the conversation shifts to 'Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!', the group continues to discuss romantic comedy narratives and what Almodovar does to subvert (and pervert) them. Considering the overarching theme of "perceptions of sanity", they ponder if terms like "sanity" and "sane" can be used to describe what and how we choose to show love, and what these movies have to say, if anything, towards that greater point. And of course, some Unlikely Shared Universe sprinkled in!

CONTENT WARNING: These are movies that depict and/or directly address self-harm, substance abuse, and violence of a sexual nature, and our conversation will occasionally reference this content.

No Podcaster is a '(Shutter) Island' (2010)

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In their first episode of 2024, Madeline, Julian and Emilio disembark, hand over their firearms, and investigate Martin Scorsese's 2010 film 'Shutter Island'. In the third of five episodes considering "perceptions of sanity," the trio consider its place among other well known films with twist endings. Is this Scorsese's attempt to beat M. Night Shyamalan at his own game? How much of what we see is actually happening? Who is the real "monster" in this film? Should some of these nurses and orderlies consider side hustles as working actors? Did Emilio actually find a scenario where clever wordplay just didn't do it for him? The three also try their hand at a new segment called 'Unlikely Shared Universe', where they test the limits of their imagination and movie nerd brains to keep characters repopulating the movies they love, only with new aliases and identities.

The Haunting Brilliance of 'Safe' (1995)

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0500

For the last episode of 2023, Madeline, Julian and Emilio continue exploring the theme of "Perceptions of Sanity" with an episode category called "Mise-Unseen", where they discuss a movie they've all just now seen for the first time. That movie is Todd Haynes' 1995 release 'Safe', a film as devoid of holiday cheer as it is of clear-cut interpretations, but a fascinating film to watch now, or any time for that matter. How present or convincing is the feminist messaging? Is Greg the husband unlikeable and selfish, aloof, or a character we are meant to sympathize with? What is Carol's ultimate fate? The trio deep dives into several of the directions that this movie allows you to go.

Thanks so much for finding us this year! If you like what you've heard, please consider following us and writing us a positive review on your platform of choice. Happy holidays, and we'll see you again in 2024 on January 10th!

Email us at sleeplesscinematicpod@gmail.com
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Three Go Over the Cuckoo's Merits

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Emilio, Madeline, and Julian kick off a new cycle of episodes on "Perceptions of Sanity" by discussing a classic film they have all seen before, 1975's "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." Highly regarded by many, the trio discuss whether they agree with the film's stature in the cinematic pantheon, while also discussing much of the history and production details that led to it before assessing its deeper meaning. Nurse Ratched is considered one of the great movie villains, but is she really that much of a baddie? How does Randle McMurphy hold up as the main vessel of the film's messages? And what insights can be offered by the film's myriad supporting characters? Oh, and also, is this a Christmas movie?

Close Up on Joe Pantoliano, a.k.a. Joey Pants: 'Risky Business' (1983), 'The Fugitive' (1993) and 'Memento' (2000)

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0500

For their first ‘Close-Up’ episode, Julian, Madeline and Emilio take a deep dive into the career of Joe Pantoliano, a great character actor known to many viewers who may or may not realize it. The trio focus on several noteworthy roles from the extensive filmography of Joey Pants (as he is known amongst fans), namely those from ‘Risky Business,’ ‘The Fugitive,’ ‘Memento,’ and ‘The Sopranos.’ Hear them break down what makes these roles tick, alongside collected stories of the moxie that Joe brings both on-screen and behind-the-scenes. Plus, what iconic film did a young JP have his scenes cut from? Outside of his acting career, what noble cause has he devoted himself to? And what do Shrek and Cars have to do with all of this?

PTAdapted: 'Inherent Vice' (2014)

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0500

This week Emilio, Madeline and Julian beware the Golden Fang and discuss a movie they've just seen for the first time: the convoluted stoner-noir 'Inherent Vice', Paul Thomas Anderson's 2014 film based on a novel of the same name by Thomas Pynchon. With this viewing, Julian and Emilio finally become PTA completists, and give their perspectives on this movie's place amongst the famous director's filmography at-large. Having just read the book, Madeline brings a much-appreciated perspective on how faithful of an adaptation this is. The group gets a big laugh out of some of the irreverent moments and details, consider the perils and pleasures that the film's attempt to create a "doper mindset" has on the narrative, and (mostly) enjoy the performances of its all-star cast, especially when it comes to frozen banana consumption.

The 'Barbie' part of Barbenheimer

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0500

Emilio, Madeline and Julian talk all things 'Barbie', the breezier of the two simultaneously released films whose portmanteau "Barbenheimer" became shorthand for the cinematic event of 2023 . Recorded a few days after its theatrical release, they share their initial thoughts and feelings, and do their best to break down this bright, ambitious comet of a film that is going for so many things. In doing so, Julian and Emilio share their separate NYC sightings of Michael Cera. Madeline thanks Greta Gerwig personally for also loving Charlie XCX. Why does Julian believe this will be one of the more influential movies to the next few years of cinema? Will Madeline finally cash out on her unopened, mint condition New Millennium Barbie that has been sitting in a closet for over 20 years? And will a similar themed Simpsons episode finally get Emilio to give the show a belated try?

Alien (1979)... Aliens (1986)... ALIEN$!

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0500

For their third conversation, Emilio, Madeline, and Julian take a look at the iconic original-and-sequel pair of 'Alien' and 'Aliens.' They trace the film landscape into which the 1979 original enters and how the movie shook up the Sci-Fi and Horror genres, before getting into what the 1986 sequel amplifies about the original as well as its own distinct merits. Emilio and Madeline are big fans of both to begin with, but Julian initially digs one and is not as sold on the other. Have his opinions shifted with fresh viewings? Plus, why is Madeline so taken by Jonesy the cat? And what visual moment of the franchise stands out the most to Emilio?

For A Little Bit Of Money: 'Fargo' (1996), 'A Simple Plan' (1998), and 'Shallow Grave' (1994)

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0500

For their second conversation, Emilio, Madeline and Julian set their sights on a trio of movies from the 1990s - 'Fargo', 'A Simple Plan', and 'Shallow Grave' - centered around everyday people who stumble into criminal activity. Opinions are shared and some questions still linger. Madeline wants to know more about Brainerd's painting scene and the postal service's stamp art selection committee. Julian still contends that the least Raimi-esque of the director's works still has a few too many Raimi-esque flourishes. Emilio wants to know how he saw a movie (a good one at that!) twice and didn't realize it was taking place in Edinburgh, NOT London.

O 'mother!' (2017), what art thou?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0400

In their first recorded conversation, sleepless cinephiles Emilio, Madeline and Julian do their best to make sense of mother!, Darren Aronofsky's highly allegorical 2017 release. They consider the multiple interpretations of this film that the director himself has suggested, and decide as individuals which one feels most relevant based on their own personal experiences and readings. How does its release alongside the rise of the Me Too Movement impact how it can be understood? How does some previous knowledge of Aronofsky's other films and their themes help prepare you for the confusing and visceral nature of this film? By the end, do any of the characters come out on top? And wait, was that actually Kristen Wiig?