The Big Picture

Two hosts take a deep dive into 'Inside Llewyn Davis,' celebrating its unique take on the struggles of a folk singer in 1961. They discuss the Coen brothers' choice of this film over others, highlighting its masterful blend of humor and drama. The conversation touches on Oscar Isaac's compelling performance and the impact of the film on his career. They explore themes of artistic integrity and the music scene, while also examining character dynamics and Llewyn's uncelebrated journey. Expect insights into the Coens' lasting influence on cinema!

Van Lathan, a media personality known for his cultural commentary, and Rob Mahoney, a Ringer staff writer with a passion for cinema, dive into the recent Superman film by James Gunn. They discuss its box office performance, the evolving cultural significance of Superman, and what the future of the DC Universe might hold. The duo also ranks every Superman movie, weighing character dynamics and nostalgic performances, and engage in a spirited debate about the legacy of past films, including a critique of the storytelling flaws in recent adaptations.

Dive into a captivating discussion about James Gunn's new vision for Superman, featuring intriguing insights on casting David Corenswet and evolving character dynamics. The hosts explore the balance of humor and heroism while critiquing pacing and thematic depth. Delve into Lex Luthor's modern portrayal, mirroring today's tech billionaires, and their thoughts on the film's socio-political commentary. With a sprinkle of nostalgia, they touch on various adaptations and upcoming superhero films, keeping the conversation fresh and entertaining.

Chris Ryan, a frequent guest and film enthusiast, joins the hosts to dive deep into the thrilling 2025 Movie Auction! They pay tribute to Michael Madsen's legacy and analyze some of the most anticipated films like 'Superman' and 'Avatar: Fire and Ash'. The trio debates box office strategies and potential Oscar contenders while reflecting on the evolving landscape of cinema. From light-hearted banter about film quality to personal anecdotes, their camaraderie shines as they auction off their favorite upcoming titles with excitement!

The discussion dives into the monumental impact of 'Oppenheimer,' highlighting its significance in Christopher Nolan's filmography. The hosts explore the film's artistic achievements, particularly its visual beauty and emotional depth. They also reflect on Nolan's evolving style and its implications for modern cinema. A lively debate emerges around thematic connections with other iconic films, including the complexities of character and morality. The dialogue around the film's legacy raises intriguing questions about its place in cinematic history.

Chris Ryan, a keen commentator on action and genre films, joins first-time writer and director Eva Victor, whose Sundance-winning film 'Sorry Baby' has garnered acclaim. They delve into the latest 'Jurassic World Rebirth,' examining its nostalgic pitfalls and critique of screenwriting. Ryan shares hilarious childhood dinosaur memories while Eva discusses the challenges of pitching personal stories to financiers. The conversation also touches on the creative journey in filmmaking, navigating personal and public perceptions with humor and insight.

Charles Holmes, a film contributor at The Ringer, joins Joanna Robinson, a pod princess known for her film insights, Grace Fennessey, a recent college graduate and avid movie fan, Van Lathan from Higher Learning, and critic Adam Nayman to discuss their favorite films of the year so far. They tackle notable box office hits, underlooked gems, and even a controversial choice that might spark debate. The discussion spans from artistic successes to the evolution of friendships in cinema, making it an engaging dive into contemporary film.

Joseph Kosinski, the talented director behind 'Top Gun: Maverick,' joins the conversation to discuss his latest film 'F1,' starring Brad Pitt. He shares insights into the challenging filming environment and the evolution of cinematic storytelling. They also dive into the future of James Bond with Denis Villeneuve at the helm, speculating on casting choices and the franchise's direction. The chat touches on the film's electrifying racing sequences and its commentary on the thrills and lifestyle of professional drivers.

Dive into the comedic genius of 'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy' as the hosts discuss its iconic quotes and scenes. They explore the film's role in shaping modern comedy and its subversion of gender roles, celebrating Christina Applegate's standout performance. The conversation highlights the balance of humor and emotional depth, particularly through Ron's connection with his dog, Baxter. They also reflect on the impact of female characters in comedy and the film's nostalgic legacy compared to its contemporaries.

Join the hosts as they celebrate a milestone with an engaging mailbag, answering listener questions on 2025's movie landscape. They dive deep into Pixar's 'Elio,' questioning its box office struggles, and tackle the live-action adaptation of 'How to Train Your Dragon,' critiquing its lack of originality. Enjoy discussions on memorable theatrical experiences and personal movie anecdotes, along with thoughts on the evolving realm of children's cinema and the influence of nostalgia in film marketing.