The Big Picture

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to recap their trip to the mobile Criterion Closet before celebrating the big box-office weekend performances of ‘Sinners’ and ‘Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith’ and explain why movies are so back (1:09). Then, they cover some recently released mediocre action films: ‘The Accountant 2’ (14:30), ‘Havoc’ (25:39), ‘A Working Man’ (36:33), and ‘The Amateur’ (44:41), and have a big-picture conversation on what these four films mean for the state of action movies (53:32). Finally, they discuss a handful of movie news headlines and share their excitement and concern for some upcoming releases (1:00:35). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda briefly react to some Oscars news, including a rule requiring Academy members to watch the movies and the details surrounding the new Casting and Achievement in Stunt Design award (1:34). Then, for the first time, they play the Summer Movie Preview Game, in which they predict the box office and Metacritic score for every major summer movie release in 2025 (16:27). Later, Sean is joined by Adam Nayman to give a brief “state of the movies” before discussing David Cronenberg’s newest body horror film, ‘The Shrouds.’ They talk about its complicated and moving portrayal of grief, praise Vincent Cassel for his excellent performance, and create a “Cronenberg starter pack” for those who aren’t very familiar with the director’s filmography (1:25:06). Finally, Sean is joined by the great David Cronenberg to discuss ‘The Shrouds.’ They talk about his decision to cast Cassel in an unusual and challenging role, why he hates shooting on film and would never return, and his long-term creative collaboration with composer Howard Shore (2:06:43).Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda DobbinsGuests: David Cronenberg and Adam NaymanProducer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Sean Fennessey and Chris Ryan, a writer and editor at The Ringer known for his keen insights on action films, as they dive into the legacy of Val Kilmer. They discuss the success of Ryan Coogler’s film 'Sinners,' examining its box office reception and award potentials. The highlight is the creation of the Val Kilmer Hall of Fame, where they select his ten most essential performances, celebrating his unique charm and impactful career. It's a thrilling blend of nostalgia and critical film analysis!

The discussion dives into the heart-wrenching world of 'Children of Men,' examining its haunting narrative and striking visuals. The hosts reflect on its themes of societal collapse and hope, particularly in light of recent global events. Key moments include Clive Owen's physical performance and the film's chilling parallels to contemporary issues like the migrant crisis. They also scrutinize the Academy's puzzling snub during awards season, while celebrating the film's emotional resonance and its bold artistic choices that challenge moral responsibility in a dystopian setting.

Van Lathan, a cultural commentator and podcast host, joins Ryan Coogler, the visionary director behind Black Panther, to dive into Coogler's latest film, 'Sinners.' They discuss the film's unique blend of horror and blues culture, and ponder if this is Michael B. Jordan's standout performance. Coogler reveals the inspiration behind the film, including the significance of shooting on film and the daring scenes that challenge audience perceptions. Join them as they explore artistic ownership, character complexities, and the importance of authentic storytelling in modern cinema.

Chris Ryan, a writer and editor at The Ringer, joins hosts Sean and Amanda for a fun-filled discussion. They kick things off with humor about Matt Damon’s fitness for 'The Odyssey' and dive into nostalgic reflections on 1990. The highlight is the vibrant movie draft featuring iconic films like 'Goodfellas' and 'Driving Miss Daisy,' where they share personal stories and friendly debates about their favorites. With lively banter about baseball and shoutouts to classics, this conversation is a delightful romp down memory lane, blending humor and cinematic insights.

Chris Ryan, a film and TV analyst at The Ringer, joins acclaimed director Alex Garland, known for works like Ex Machina, and former Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza, co-director of the gripping combat drama Warfare. They dive deep into the complex perspectives presented in Warfare and its emotional resonance regarding military experiences. The trio also discusses the significance of memory in storytelling and the evolving representation of war in cinema, revealing how these narratives can challenge viewers' perceptions and provoke thoughtful reflections.

Dive into the charm of Nancy Meyers's romantic comedy, featuring the captivating performances of Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson. The discussion highlights the film's legacy in portraying mature relationships and the complexities of life after 50. Explore how it redefines romance through an engaging and relatable lens. Learn about its influence on contemporary cinema and fashion trends, particularly the 'Coastal Grandma' aesthetic. The hosts also celebrate the film's meta-narrative and its nostalgic take on love, moving beyond standard rom-com conventions.

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.