The Fifth Column Members Only #282 – There Will Be Spoilers (One Battle After Another, Cartoon Politics, and Car Chases)
Oct 21, 2025
The discussion kicks off with complaints about romanticizing left-wing violence in a recent film. Car chases reminiscent of classic cinema receive high praise, igniting thrilling debates. Sean Penn's cartoonish performance faces criticism, contrasting sharply with a standout supporting actor’s authentic portrayal. Jim Downey's legacy in SNL adds a nostalgic touch. Themes of left-wing terrorism echo throughout the film, raising provocative questions about politics in cinema.
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Film Sparks Partisan Reactions
- There Will Be Blood–adjacent films provoke partisan takes about glamorizing violence.
- Matt Welch and Michael Moynihan note left-leaning listeners accused the film of whitewashing left-wing violence.
Car Chases Steal The Show
- Both hosts praised the movie's car chases as cinematic highlights.
- They singled out bookend chases (opening and ending) as particularly superb.
Differing Takes On Performances
- Matt Welch disliked Sean Penn's cartoonish performance and found DiCaprio merely good-looking at first.
- Michael Moynihan defended DiCaprio and recommended several of his earlier films.