The Big Picture

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.

Chris Ryan, a writer and editor at The Ringer, joins the hosts to dissect hot topics in cinema. They discuss the Academy’s choice to honor Tom Cruise, explore Glen Powell's new film, and marvel at the first trailer for a Springsteen documentary. The conversation shifts to '28 Years Later,' praising its bold filmmaking techniques, including shooting on an iPhone. Ryan highlights the synergy between Danny Boyle and Alex Garland, while they delve into the film's emotional depth and innovative storytelling within the horror genre.

A deep dive into 'Before Sunset' reveals its captivating emotional depth and the complexities of love depicted through Jesse and Celine’s journey. The hosts discuss the film’s Parisian backdrop, emphasizing its influence on the romance narrative. Personal reflections on evolving perceptions of relationships are woven in, alongside humor about reaching your 50s and navigating independence. They also touch on unconventional career paths taken by actors and highlight poignant moments from various films, showcasing emotional storytelling.

Join Amanda and Sean as they dive into quirky life advice, tackling everything from how to gently confront a smelly friend to incorporating cinematic flair in wedding speeches. Explore the dynamics of relationships rooted in shared movie passions and celebrate the joys and challenges of parenthood with humorous anecdotes. Plus, they provide fun deodorant tips and share personal experiences from film festivals, all wrapped in light-hearted banter. It's a unique mix of heartfelt advice and entertaining insights!