The Big Picture

Van Lathan, known for his insightful take on pop culture, dives into the divisive ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’, dissecting its musical style and societal commentary. He examines the current landscape of moviegoing and how social media shapes audience engagement. Joining later, Greg Jardin shares insights from his debut film ‘It’s What’s Inside’, discussing its sci-fi thrills and unique narrative choices. The conversation explores the evolving perceptions of cinema and the complexities of audience reactions in today’s polarized film culture.

Dive into the ambitious yet tangled narrative of Francis Ford Coppola's 'Megalopolis,' featuring insights on its unique journey, mixed reviews, and the disconnect between expectation and reality. The discussion also highlights memorable moments from a cinematic screening and explores the criteria for a Coppola Hall of Fame, showcasing both legendary hits and infamous flops. Further, there’s a lively debate on themes of gender representation in film and the distractions of modern entertainment, all wrapped in engaging anecdotes and humor.

In this engaging conversation, Josh Cooley, the talented director of 'Transformers: One' and 'Toy Story 4,' shares his insights into the vibrant world of animation. He discusses the challenges and creative processes behind making animated films and his journey from Pixar to new adventures. The dialogue dives into themes of non-biological relationships and the character origins within the Transformers franchise. Additionally, they touch upon the recent film 'Wolfs' featuring Brad Pitt and George Clooney, debating its charm beyond star power.

In this engaging conversation, Coralie Fargeat, a celebrated writer and director known for her provocative body horror films like 'Revenge,' discusses her latest work, 'The Substance,' starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley. She delves into her early influences in body horror and shares insights on the creative process behind crafting unsettling narratives. The conversation touches on themes of body image, societal pressures, and the psychological implications of beauty standards—all through the lens of cinema's unique ability to challenge perceptions.

Chris Ryan and Zach Baron join the conversation, with Chris being a Ringer colleague known for his engaging film analysis, and Zach recently profiling Brad Pitt and George Clooney. The guests draft their favorite films from these iconic actors and delve into their unique friendship, sharing humorous anecdotes and insights from their careers. They also explore the impact of streaming on cinema and reminisce about memorable moments from their recent trip to France, blending nostalgia with playful banter in a lively cinematic discussion.

In this discussion, film critic Adam Nayman, known for his sharp insights, joins Sean and Amanda to recap standout films from the Toronto International Film Festival. They explore audience favorites, the potential Oscar contenders like 'The Life of Chuck', and navigate through themes of illness and privilege in cinema. The trio also dives into the anticipation for the psychological thriller 'Baby Girl' starring Nicole Kidman, while predicting nominees for the 2025 Oscars. Expect laughs along with thought-provoking discussions about this year's film landscape!

Join James McAvoy, the star of 'Speak No Evil,' alongside director James Watkins and film critic Chris Ryan, as they dive into the eerie depths of psychological horror. They explore why remaking the film was essential, tapping into humanity's darker sides. Prepare for a lively discussion on movies that evoke a desperate need to escape danger, with their top picks sure to resonate. The conversation shifts from character complexities to personal anecdotes, all wrapped in humor, making it a thrilling watch for horror fans.

Chris Ryan, a film writer and podcaster at The Ringer, joins independent filmmaker Jeremy Saulnier, known for his suspenseful films like Blue Ruin. They dive into the thrilling realm of 'Rebel Ridge,' discussing its gripping narrative and impressive performances. The duo coins the term 'Garbage Revenge' to describe a quirky subgenre of vengeance films. Saulnier also shares insights into his creative process, the challenges of filmmaking, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Expect humor and keen observations on revenge narratives!

Join Van Lathan, co-host of 'Higher Learning' and 'Midnight Boys,' as he dives into the quirky world of 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.' They discuss Michael Keaton’s nostalgic return, the challenges of sequels, and the intriguing addition of Jenna Ortega. The trio reflects on Tim Burton's early successes and later drops, sharing their top five favorite films that showcase his unique blend of whimsy and horror. Lathan's insights and personal anecdotes make for a delightful exploration of legacy, creativity, and the enduring impact of beloved stories.

Witness the buzz from the Telluride Film Festival as standout films like 'Anora' and the Trump biopic 'The Apprentice' spark excitement. Delve into the evolving narrative landscapes with discussions on diverse storytelling and emotional performances. The hosts share insights on festival experiences, anticipated fall films, and the competitive awards race. Humorous anecdotes about celebrity culture and grooming add a light touch, while speculations on potential Oscar nominations keep the conversation lively.