The Big Picture

Join film critic Joanna Robinson as she dives into the surprising snubs and noteworthy nominations of the 2025 Golden Globe Awards. She and Sean discuss how these choices impact the Academy Awards and the industry's evolving landscape. Later, legendary actor Richard Gere shares insights about his career and his collaboration with director Paul Schrader on 'Oh, Canada.' He touches on the emotional connections that shape storytelling and reflects on the intertwining of family and art. Expect an engaging mix of awards chatter and cinematic nostalgia!

Joining the conversation are Chris Ryan, a film critic known for his sharp insights, and Adam Nayman, a storyteller who dissects cinema's artistry. They delve into the rise of 'Wicked' and its award prospects. The trio passionately shares their top five films of 2024, featuring a lush mix of blockbusters and indie gems. They also discuss the evolving portrayal of queer narratives and the excitement brewing for anticipated releases, all while highlighting the intricacies of nonlinear storytelling and emotional depth in cinema.

Chris Ryan, a regular contributor at The Ringer known for his sharp movie insights, and Rob Mahoney, a film history enthusiast, join the conversation. They dive into the recent box office boom, highlighting major hits like 'Gladiator 2' and the critique of Steve McQueen's 'Blitz.' Their discussion then pivots to the endless appeal of World War II films, examining genres from classics to lesser-known titles. They each share their top five WWII movies while reflecting on the emotional depth and cultural significance these films hold today.

Rob Harvilla, a witty music podcaster, joins Yasi Salek, a music genre expert, and filmmaker Garret Price to dive into the quirky world of holiday films. They hilariously dissect 'Hot Frosty,' celebrating its self-awareness and absurdity. The trio contrasts it with the beloved 'Moana,' sharing personal viewing experiences. They also chat about upcoming movies, including the anticipated sequel to 'Moana.' Garret offers insights into creating the documentary 'Yacht Rock,' discussing the complexities of capturing authentic musical nostalgia.

Juliet Litman, head of production at The Ringer and pop culture expert, joins the discussion alongside Malcolm Washington, writer and director of 'The Piano Lesson.' They explore the mixed feelings surrounding the film adaptation of 'Wicked,' its cultural significance, and potential Oscar prospects. The duo also ranks their top five 21st-century musicals. Malcolm shares insights on transforming August Wilson's work into film, the influence of his Hollywood legacy, and the broader themes of identity and resilience in storytelling.

Chris Ryan, a writer and podcaster at The Ringer, and Mallory Rubin, also a writer for The Ringer, dive deep into the highly anticipated 'Gladiator II.' They share their mixed feelings about the sequel, discuss standout performances, and evaluate its Oscar chances. The conversation flows into a ranking of their top five favorite legacy sequels, exploring themes from nostalgia to emotional engagement in film. Their insights blend humor and thoughtful analysis, drawing on their rich podcasting history and cinematic passion.

Joanna Robinson, a sharp film critic, joins actor-director Jesse Eisenberg, known for 'The Social Network', to dissect the cinematic blunders in 'Red One'. They explore why it misses the mark and share insights about Eisenberg's latest film, 'A Real Pain', featuring cousins on a poignant holiday journey. The conversation shifts to the nuances of character dynamics in two-hander films, highlighting favorites that showcase deep emotional connections. Additionally, they reflect on casting choices and the unpredictable landscape of awards season.

Joanna Robinson, an awards season expert, and Katey Rich, the awards editor at The Ankler, dive into the current Best Picture race. They discuss the top 10 films vying for Oscar nominations, highlighting the mixed reception of 'Emilia Pérez.' The conversation touches on how recent political events might influence voter preferences and the themes of major contenders like 'Wicked.' They also analyze the impact of box office performance on nominations and the ever-changing dynamics of the competitive awards landscape.

Adam Nayman, a film critic and writer, delves into Clint Eastwood's 'Juror No. 2,' examining its unique rollout and the filmmaker's trademark style. He reflects on Eastwood's cinematic legacy and the evolving landscape of filmmaking. Later, Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, co-directors of the horror thriller 'Heretic,' share their insights on the creative process behind the film, Hugh Grant's compelling performance, and the intricate themes of faith and truth woven throughout. Their journey and collaborative efforts in storytelling ignite fascinating discussions.

Bryan Curtis, Ringer editor-at-large and host of ‘Press Box,’ joins Sean Fennessey to dissect Robert Zemeckis's latest film 'Here,' highlighting its innovative blend of technology and emotional storytelling. They dive into Zemeckis's approach to chronicling history and building a Zemeckis Hall of Fame, spotlighting his influential works like 'Back to the Future' and 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit.' The conversation also explores cinematic advancements, the intersection of nostalgia and modern storytelling, and the evolving landscape of filmmaking.