The Big Picture The 25 Best Movies of the Century: No. 3 - '25th Hour’
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Nov 26, 2025 Sean and Amanda dive into Spike Lee's '25th Hour,' highlighting its unique urgency post-9/11. They discuss Edward Norton’s emotional depth as Monty and unpack the film's powerful 'Fuck You' monologue. The conversation explores themes of male friendship, corporate power, and the critique of the justice system. With insights on cinematography and the film’s legacy, they reflect on its underappreciation and personal resonance. Comparisons to other films and a spirited debate on Monty’s fate wrap up this engaging analysis.
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Film As Post‑9/11 Time Capsule
- 25th Hour captures the immediate, present-tense feeling of post-9/11 New York through one man's final day.
- The film uses personal regret to mirror a city's loss of innocence and collective discombobulation.
A Finale That Keeps Landing
- The movie's ending is widely regarded by the hosts as one of the best of the 21st century and hits emotionally every time.
- Sean and Amanda both describe crying at different moments in the finale, highlighting its layered power.
Collaborative Lift Changes Spike's Register
- Spike Lee's familiar stylistic moves feel newly powerful when paired with David Benioff's material and Rodrigo Prieto's cinematography.
- The collaboration tightens Lee's vocabulary into a focused, emotionally affecting character piece.
