In this week’s episode of Unclear and Present Danger, Jamelle and John watch “Toys,” a largely-forgotten fantasy-comedy film from director Barry Levinson. Despite its myriad flaws, the boys have a productive conversation about the film’s obvious themes — the military-industrial complex and the rise of remote and drone warfare — and its less obvious themes, specifically the bourgeois vision of family capitalism and industrial harmony at the heart of the film.
“Toys” is virtually impossible to watch if you don’t have a physical disc, but there is a low-quality version available to stream here.
Connor Lynch produced this episode. Artwork by Rachel Eck.
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