The Big Picture

We are drafting again! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan as well as Griffin Newman and David Sims from the 'Blank Check' podcast to draft their favorite movie presidents.Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda DobbinsGuests: Chris Ryan, Griffin Newman, and David SimsSenior Producer: Bobby WagnerVideo Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Ryan, a sharp movie analyst at The Ringer, and Matt Tyrnauer, a noted documentarian, dive into thrilling cinematic discussions. They speculate on Christopher Nolan's upcoming film and explore nostalgic Hollywood remakes, pondering if modern filmmakers can recapture the magic of the past. The spotlight shines on 'Conclave,' a taut thriller featuring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, with a captivating plot and unexpected twists. Tyrnauer also shares insights on his documentary about political strategist James Carville, revealing the intrigue behind political narratives.

Mallory Rubin and Charles Holmes, film critics from The Ringer, team up to dissect 'Venom: The Last Dance,' noting its chaotic charm despite shortcomings. They share laughs while delving into the bizarre energy of the Venom trilogy. Then, Chris Sanders, the award-winning director of 'The Wild Robot,' joins to discuss the innovative strides in animation and the emotional depth of storytelling in his film. The trio reflects on current trends in comic book movies and the future of animated features, blending humor with insightful critiques.

In a hilarious dive into everything except movies, the hosts tackle forgotten childhood memories and unforgettable death row meals. They debate the nuances of email etiquette while sharing their quirks as parents wrangling toddlers. Sports fandom heats up with a passionate discussion on MVPs, and a whimsical showdown arises over battling duck-sized horses. From favorite cocktails to healthcare rants, this lively conversation blends humor, nostalgia, and friendship in a way that keeps you entertained throughout.

In this lively discussion, Alex Ross Perry, an indie film writer and director known for ‘Pavements,’ joins the show to dissect the slasher genre. They chat about the cultural impact of classics like ‘Halloween’ and ‘Scream,’ while curating a Slasher Movie Hall of Fame. Perry shares insights on the thrill of horror films, the unique storytelling in the genre, and the excitement surrounding upcoming releases like ‘Terrifier 3.’ Their humorous banter offers a nostalgic reflection on slasher films’ evolution and their place in cinema history.

John Crowley, director of ‘We Live in Time,’ is known for his heartfelt romantic dramas. In this discussion, he shares insights on his collaboration with stars Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh, revealing what drew him to their performances. The conversation dives into the complexities of cinematic storytelling versus theater, highlighting Crowley’s dedication to exploring sincere romantic narratives. They also touch on the unpredictable Best Picture race, with a focus on the urgency and emotional depth of the newly released film ‘Anora.’

Chris Ryan, a film critic from The Ringer, joins the discussion to dive into the captivating world of horror cinema. They explore the success of 'Terrifier 3,' reflecting on its cult status and extreme gore. The pair also critique 'Smile 2,' noting its impressive filmmaking contrasted with a disjointed storyline. In an engaging segment, they each share their top five horror films of the year, highlighting promising entries like 'Longlegs' and beloved franchises. The conversation reveals the evolving landscape of horror and the enduring loyalty of its fans.

Join Bryan Curtis, a media and culture commentator, and actor Sebastian Stan, known for his role as Bucky Barnes and recently portraying Trump, as they delve into cinematic brilliance. They explore highlights from the New York Film Festival, discussing standout entries and the complexity of films like 'The Brutalist.' Curtis shares insights on 'The Apprentice,' examining Trump's rise and connections with Roy Cohn. Stan reflects on his acting choices, the evolution of characters, and the intriguing journey bringing 'The Apprentice' to life.

Chris Ryan, a contributor to The Ringer known for his sharp insights, joins forces with Jon Caramanica, pop critic at the New York Times and host of Popcast. They delve into Jason Reitman's film ‘Saturday Night,’ exploring its take on the origins of 'Saturday Night Live' and the challenges of capturing its iconic nature. The duo also ranks their top five backstage movies, discussing the intrigue behind the scenes. Later, Jon reviews the unique Lego-animated Pharrell Williams biopic ‘Piece by Piece,’ analyzing its effectiveness in portraying his prolific career.

Chris Ryan, a writer and podcaster for The Ringer, joins Sean and Amanda for a lively draft of 1996 films. They reminisce about their cinematic memories from the year, sharing humorous childhood anecdotes related to movies and youth sports. The trio dives deep into iconic films like 'Fargo,' 'Independence Day,' and 'Trainspotting,' discussing their cultural impact and personal connections. Expect nostalgic reflections, playful banter, and a spirited debate over which films truly defined the cinematic landscape of 1996!