The Big Picture

Adam Nayman, a film critic known for his insights into contemporary cinema, joins discussions on the complexities of Kathryn Bigelow's ‘A House of Dynamite,’ highlighting its compelling first act and the weaknesses of its later stages. The conversation then shifts to Kelly Reichardt's ‘The Mastermind,’ where they explore Josh O'Connor's captivating performance as an art thief wannabe, the film's critique of male vanity, and its ironic humor. Nayman emphasizes Reichardt's unique cinematic style and her thoughtful engagement with audience expectations.

Chris Ryan, a music writer and podcaster, joins Yasi Salek, host of Bandsplain, and Mary Bronstein, writer-director of 'If I Had Legs I'd Kick You.' They dive into Scott Cooper's 'Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere,' discussing its lack of dramatic stakes and cinematic story. Chris and Yasi express their views on the potential and pitfalls of music biopics, while Mary shares her deeply personal journey in filmmaking and navigating audience empathy. Insights into casting choices and the challenges of telling imperfect stories make for a captivating conversation.

Dive into the world of 'Parasite' as the hosts unpack its layered storytelling and unforgettable ending. They explore the film's sharp critique of class dynamics, highlighting its blend of South Korean specifics with universal themes. The conversation touches on the film's brilliant visual design and the poignant empathy it evokes for all characters involved. Reflecting on its monumental Oscars win, they dissect how 'Parasite' reshaped the landscape of global cinema, making it an essential part of the 21st-century film canon.

Chris Ryan, a film critic who dives into the intricacies of contemporary horror, and Alex Ross Perry, a filmmaker known for his engaging short segments, tackle the intriguing landscape of horror in 2025. They discuss the disappointing sequel 'Black Phone 2' and explore the current imbalance in the genre, where high-quality auteur films clash with weaker studio releases. Alex shares his creative process for his short in V/H/S/Halloween, revealing how personal fears shape his storytelling and what makes a horror anthology truly standout.

Rebecca Miller, acclaimed filmmaker and writer, joins the conversation to share insights about her five-part documentary on Martin Scorsese. She details her journey transforming her film into a five-hour portrait, highlighting how she captured Scorsese’s personal and professional life. Miller discusses her interviews with Scorsese and key collaborators, revealing the trust and truth required in biographical storytelling. She reflects on the surprises she encountered, from Scorsese's early storyboards to his enduring passion for cinema.

Explore the exhilarating world of 'Mad Max: Fury Road,' hailed as a groundbreaking action film. The hosts highlight its silent film qualities and the stunning performance by Charlize Theron. They dive into the film’s kinetic editing and striking visual palette, discussing how sound design amplifies the experience. The history of its creation and George Miller's unique worldbuilding are examined, alongside comparisons to other iconic action films. Join the lively debate on its emotional resonance versus its spectacle-driven nature.

Film critic David Sims, co-host of the Blank Check podcast, joins to celebrate the legendary Daniel Day-Lewis. They dive into Day-Lewis's intriguing return to acting in 'Anemone,' directed by his son, and discuss if the year 2025 has delivered strong films. The conversation traverses his iconic roles, from 'My Left Foot' to 'There Will Be Blood,' debating his method acting techniques and the impact of his hiatus. They also build a Hall of Fame for his most memorable performances, solidifying his status in cinematic history.

Chris Ryan, a film podcaster and critic from Blank Check, joins Griffin Newman, an actor and fellow Blank Check co-host, and David Sims, a film critic and Blank Check co-host. They engage in an exciting draft of their favorite New York City movies. Topics include the significance of iconic films like "Goodfellas" and "When Harry Met Sally," with lively debates about subway scenes in "Frances Ha" and "The French Connection." David ultimately wins the draft, showcasing his extensive knowledge of New York’s cinematic landscape.

Van Lathan, a cultural commentator and media personality, shares his insights on the box office implications and representation in 'One Battle After Another'. He discusses the importance of supporting smaller creators and critiques the film's portrayal of Black women, raising concerns about harmful depictions. The conversation dives into how patronage influences filmmakers, addressing the double standards that affect marginalized voices. Lathan also emphasizes the film's potential to spark discussions about representation while balancing entertainment value.

This week, cultural commentator Van Lathan joins writer-director Benny Safdie to discuss 'The Smashing Machine.' Benny shares insights into working with Dwayne Johnson, revealing how The Rock's performance transcends his usual persona and adds emotional depth. They delve into the film's unique blend of realism and documentary style, as well as tackle critiques of Emily Blunt’s underwhelming role. Additionally, Sean and Amanda kick off new Best Picture power rankings following the fall festival season, sparking a lively debate about this year’s contenders.