The Big Picture

The podcast dives into the blockbuster success of the 'Minecraft Movie,' highlighting its significance for the film industry. It discusses the evolving landscape of children's films and the impact of video game adaptations on storytelling. The hosts reflect on the current state of cinema versus television and how recent strikes have affected releases. They also share insights on parenting amid the changing media environment, all while emphasizing the importance of creating quality content that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Matthew Belloni, founding partner of Puck and host of The Town podcast, joins the conversation to share insider Hollywood insights. They discuss a surprising sequel to 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' directed by David Fincher. The excitement around CinemaCon is palpable, with highlights about upcoming films like 'Spider-Man' and debates over film accessibility. Personal anecdotes from Las Vegas add a light-hearted touch, showcasing the charm and chaos of the film industry while reflecting on its nostalgic appeal.

Jomi Adeniran, a social content producer at The Ringer, is joined by producer Jade Whaley and young film enthusiast Jack Sanders. They dive into their unique Gen Z movie-watching experiences, exploring the transition from nostalgic DVDs to streaming options. The trio debates the influence of iconic films like 'Avengers Endgame' and 'Lady Bird' on their generation. They also reflect on the shared joy of movie-going, the enduring charm of early 2000s favorites, and how films like 'Barbie' serve as cultural connectors among friends.

Yasi Salek, a film critic and pop culture enthusiast, joins Amanda to explore the quirky world of 'Garbage Women' films—those charmingly mediocre movies starring iconic actresses. They dive into recent releases like 'Holland' and 'Kinda Pregnant,' dissecting their flaws and fun. The duo hilariously critiques female representation in cinema, discusses the dynamics of motherhood in comedy, and ruminates on beauty standards while forming a whimsical 'garbage women canon.' Their candid insights blend humor and thoughtful commentary on women’s roles in film.

Dive into the mesmerizing world of 'The Handmaiden,' a film that brilliantly intertwines power dynamics and seduction in an intricate narrative. The hosts explore its stunning visuals and thematic depth, showcasing Park Chan-wook's remarkable storytelling. They discuss its bold exploration of sexuality, class struggles, and the transformative relationships among female characters. Additionally, the impact of streaming on independent cinema and the film's legacy within South Korean cinema is examined, making for an engaging and insightful discussion.

Joining the discussion is Chris Ryan, a film critic and writer for The Ringer. They dive into Barry Levinson’s ‘The Alto Knights,’ exploring its mobster themes and connection to Scorsese. The conversation takes a humorous turn as they create a mini-genre called 'garbage Scorsese,' critiquing films that pay homage to the master but miss the mark. They also share excitement about upcoming releases and reflect on the challenges of family viewing. This lively chat blends insights with plenty of laughs about the film industry.

We’re drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris are joined by the resident physical-media king of 'The Big Picture,' Tracy Letts, to draft movies from 1982 and take stock of the biggest ways the film world has changed in the past 40 years.Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda DobbinsGuests: Tracy Letts and Chris RyanSenior Producer: Bobby WagnerVideo Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two hosts dive into the intricacies of 'Michael Clayton,' exploring its tight narrative and the brilliance of its script. They discuss the complexities of its characters, especially the morally ambiguous villain played by Tilda Swinton. The impact of casting choices, like what Denzel Washington might have brought to the lead role, sparks intriguing speculation. Themes of tragedy and internal struggle weave throughout the conversation, highlighting the film's lasting cultural significance and emotional depth.

In this lively discussion, Chris Ryan critiques the Netflix debacle 'The Electric State,' a film many consider one of the worst of the decade, diving into its disappointing execution and the Russo brothers' recent failures. Mark Anthony Green joins later to share his creative journey behind 'Opus,' highlighting the emotional challenges of filmmaking. The conversation shifts to a list of overlooked films worth watching, bringing to light hidden gems amidst criticisms of today's cinematic landscape. Expect insights, laughs, and a fresh take on modern filmmaking!

Sean and Amanda discuss their upcoming trip to Las Vegas for CinemaCon (1:00) before taking stock of Steven Soderbergh’s 36th feature film, ‘Black Bag,’ starring Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender (8:30). Then, they build a Hall of Fame for Blanchett by selecting the 10 most important performances by the two-time Oscar winner (27:00).Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda DobbinsSenior Producer: Bobby WagnerVideo Producers: John Richter and Jon Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices