Why Theory

Unlock the secrets of heist films as the hosts dissect their unique structure of desire versus object. Delve into the evolution of the genre and its interplay with crime and law enforcement. Explore psychological dynamics, from the allure of wealth to moral complexities in classics like 'Rififi' and 'Heat.' Discover how non-linear narratives enrich storytelling and challenge audiences. Lastly, examine the shifting portrayals of masculinity and femininity in iconic films and the societal issues woven into their plots.

Dive into the captivating world of sports films as the hosts unravel their evolution, humorously connecting them to Halloween candy. Discover the iconic legacy of 'Rocky,' with its themes of resilience and underdog triumph. Explore emotional narratives of athletes' journeys and family bonds, including a surprising film featuring Ray Allen. Unpack the representation of women in 90s sports films and the societal themes evident in classics like 'Caddyshack,' blending humor with class dynamics. The discussion is a rich tapestry reflecting life's challenges and victories.

Dive into Freud's intriguing theories as hosts unpack the essentials of his New Introductory Lectures on Psychoanalysis. Explore the puzzling concept of the death drive and its implications for personal relationships and society. Discover how Freud’s ideas intersect with contemporary issues like trauma, power dynamics, and gender roles, all while enjoying humorous anecdotes about dietary preferences and cultural critiques. This lively discussion blends psychoanalysis with modern dilemmas, encouraging a fresh look at traditional theories.

Delving into Freud's 'Introductory Lectures on Psychoanalysis,' the podcast explores topics like dreams, neurosis, and psychosis. It discusses the significance of unconscious behaviors impacting dreams, challenges perceptions of normality, analyzes dream work, memory surrounding trauma, understanding serial killers from Freud's perspective, the impact of fantasy in psychoanalysis, and explores the successes of 'Silence of the Lambs' at the Academy Awards.

Delve into the concept of suture in film theory, exploring its migration from theorists to public discourse. Analyze iconic coffee shop scene, complexity in film studies, and translations in theoretical shifts. Feel the ideological effects of suture in cinematic storytelling through 'Gross Point Blank' and 'Memento' analysis.

The podcast delves into the concept of extimacy in psychoanalysis, exploring how external perspectives challenge internal perceptions. It discusses philosophical examples on lying, anamorphosis, and symbols of failure in Lacan's seminars. The hosts also analyze voiceovers in film, highlighting themes of control and representation.

Exploring prequels in media, revenge narratives, character development, trauma, societal change, and Magneto's origin story. Dive into Better Call Saul's character evolution, time travel in films, and the ethical decisions of protagonists. Discussing the radical potential and ideological function of prequels in storytelling.

Exploring the evolution of endings in novels, sacrifice and redemption in 'A Tale of Two Cities', modernist themes in Dickens' 'Bleak House', analysis of modernism and post-modernism, immersive writing techniques, symbolism of cuts in literature, and Antonioni's connections to English rockers in 'Blow-Up'.

Exploring the significance of well-executed endings in media and audience perception. Discussing impactful conclusions in TV shows and movies like Golden Girls and M*A*S*H. Delving into narrative techniques and surprise endings in classic films. Connecting movie endings to psychoanalysis and audience expectations. Reflecting on the influence of digital technology on the concept of film endings. Delving into internal conflicts in Star Trek and societal influences on cinematic conclusions.

Ryan and Todd analyze Slavoj Zizek's ideas on the parallax view, conspiracy themes in films, controversial scenes in 'Wild at Heart', Stalinism vs. Nazism, Heidegger's legacy, freedom, impulses, and parallax in narrative interpretation.