Filmspotting

Dive into the world of Sean Baker's 'Anora,' where the defiance of its hustler protagonist offers fresh perspectives on identity and societal roles. Explore the complexities of Hugh Grant's character in 'Heretic,' merging politeness with malevolence. Delve into the latest theatrical releases and compare critical reception with audience reactions. Reflect on memorable Pixar characters and their emotional depth, alongside insights into Robert Zemeckis' storytelling techniques. It's a cinematic journey filled with humor and engaging analysis.

Celebrate the 25th anniversary of a cult classic that reshaped cinema and challenged societal norms. The hosts dive into the film's themes of identity, masculinity, and consumerism, offering fresh insights and humorous reflections. They analyze Fincher's unique cinematic techniques and reveal their top five standout scenes from his impressive filmography. With a focus on the emotional depth and artistry in Fincher's work, the discussion illuminates how his filmmaking resonates with audiences past and present.

Dive into the world of film as the hosts dissect a gripping papal thriller and celebrate Ralph Fiennes' stellar career. They showcase Fiennes' complex roles, from the flamboyant Harry Hawks to the nuanced M. Gustave, highlighting his emotional depth. Exploring themes of political intrigue and the clash of tradition versus modernity in 'Conclave', they also engage in a lively debate comparing Fiennes to Gary Oldman. With personal anecdotes and audience engagement, this conversation is a must for cinephiles.

The lasting impact of 'The Texas Chain Saw Massacre' is explored as it turns 50, highlighting its raw aesthetic and cultural significance. The discussion dives into how the film reflects societal anxieties through its chilling characters and sound design. Additionally, the hosts award standout performances from a Sidney Lumet Marathon, blending humor with insightful critiques. They also review 'Memoir of a Snail', a poignant stop-motion film, while sharing experiences from various film festivals and engaging listeners in a fun 'massacre theater' segment.

With Wes Craven's A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET back in theaters for its 40th anniversary, we're sharing Adam and Josh's 2016 "Blind Cow" review of the film that Josh considers the best horror movie of all time—and Adam catches up with first the first time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into a lively discussion of the top performances by iconic SNL cast members like Eddie Murphy and Kristen Wiig. Recap the hilarious sketches and characters that shaped comedy history, alongside a review of Jason Reitman's film about SNL's chaotic beginnings. Whether reflecting on the emotional depth of Adam Sandler's roles or the memorable chaos of listener polls on SNL favorites, this conversation blends nostalgia with insightful commentary, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the comedic talent that emerged from Saturday Night Live.

Our very first Sacred Cow review was this March 2012 revisit of PULP FICTION, which turns 30 this month. Originally paired with the Top 5 Films of 1994 (episode #390), which you can find in the Filmspotting Archive. Access to the complete archive going back to 2005 is one of the perks of being a Filmspotting Family member. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s no joke: JOKER FOLIE À DEUX is a musical. Adam and Josh discuss whether it pays off and how the film handles its predecessor’s troubling legacy. Plus, Josh recommends THE OUTRUN, and the sixth and final film in the Sidney Lumet Marathon, 1981’s PRINCE OF THE CITY.This episode is presented by Regal Unlimited, the all-you-can-watch movie subscription pass that pays for itself in just two visits.(Timecodes will not be precise with ads; chapters may start early.)Opening (00:00:00-00:02:44)Review: “Joker: Folie à Deux” (00:02:45-00:47:19)Review (JL): “The Outrun” (00:47:20-00:50:30)Next Week, Notes (00:50:31-00:57:50)Massacre Theatre (00:57:51-01:03:53)Lumet #6: “Prince of the City” (01:04:01-01:34:07)Notes/Links:Filmspotting Guide to the Archiveshttps://letterboxd.com/wjmclaughlin/list/the-filmspotting-guide-to-the-archives/Feedback:Email us at feedback@filmspotting.net.Ask Us Anything and we might answer your question in bonus content.Support us:-Join the Filmspotting Family for bonus episodes and complete archive access.http://filmspottingfamily.com-T-shirts (and more) on sale at the Filmspotting Shop.https://filmspotting.net/shopFollow:https://www.instagram.com/filmspottinghttps://letterboxd.com/filmspottinghttps://twitter.com/filmspottinghttps://facebook.com/filmspottinghttps://letterboxd.com/larsenonfilmhttps://twitter.com/larsenonfilmhttps://facebook.com/larsenonfilm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Between its late-August premiere at Venice (where it won the festival's top prize) and its release in theaters here in the States, Todd Phillips' JOKER provoked every possible response, with some calling it one of the best films of the year and others calling it the absolute worst – not to mention the much-discussed fears that the movie was "dangerous." No surprise then that when Adam and Josh finally got around to seeing it, they split – not just on the film itself, but on everything from the film's score to star Joaquin Phoenix's take on the iconic villain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's much to discuss (and admire) about Coppola’s MEGALOPOLIS. Plus, reviews of Pitt and Clooney in WOLFS, animated hit THE WILD ROBOT, and Rosemary’s Baby prequel APARTMENT 7A, along with some under-the-radar Chicago International Film Festival titles to seek out.This episode is presented by Regal Unlimited, the all-you-can-watch movie subscription pass that pays for itself in just two visits.(Timecodes will not be precise with ads; chapters may start early.)Opening (00:00:00-00:01:46)"Megalopolis" (00:01:47-00:39:48)“Wolfs,” “The Wild Robot,” “Apartment 7A” (00:39:49-00:49:52)Next Week, In Memoriam (00:49:53-00:57:25)Polls (00:57:26-01:06:56)Preview: Chicago Int'l Film Festival (01:06:57-01:33:34)Notes/Links:Chicago International Film Festivalhttps://www.chicagofilmfestival.com/Feedback:Email us at feedback@filmspotting.net.Ask Us Anything and we might answer your question in bonus content.Support us:-Join the Filmspotting Family for bonus episodes and complete archive access.http://filmspottingfamily.com-T-shirts (and more) on sale at the Filmspotting Shop.https://filmspotting.net/shopFollow:https://www.instagram.com/filmspottinghttps://letterboxd.com/filmspottinghttps://twitter.com/filmspottinghttps://facebook.com/filmspottinghttps://letterboxd.com/larsenonfilmhttps://twitter.com/larsenonfilmhttps://facebook.com/larsenonfilm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices