The Ringer’s Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark and they’re wearing sunglasses as they rewatch the 1980 classic ‘The Blues Brothers,’ starring Jon Belushi and Dan Aykroyd.Watch this episode on the Ringer Movies YouTube channel!Producer: Craig HorlbeckVideo Producers: Jack Sanders and Chia Hao Tat Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the emotional depths of 'Before Sunset' as thoughtful discussions uncover its themes of love and missed opportunities. The hosts analyze character dynamics, reflecting on how personal experiences shape storytelling. Enjoy playful debates about the film's Oscar oversight and the contrast between independent films and blockbusters. Nostalgia and vulnerability in adult relationships unfold, alongside musings about idealized Paris versus real-life experiences. Lively banter, character reflections, and delightful anecdotes create an engaging exploration of this cinematic gem.

Explore the enchanting backdrop of Vienna as the hosts dive into the timeless romance of 'Before Sunrise.' They reflect on the film's cultural impact and delve into Jesse's heartbreak in Spain with a humorous twist. Discussion flows over authentic connections, character dynamics, and nostalgic themes that resonate even today. Engaging anecdotes and playful banter highlight the film’s artistic choices, from iconic scenes to inventive casting speculation. Expect laughter and thoughtful insights on love, life, and the evolving cinema landscape.

Listeners are treated to a lively mailbag session featuring hilarious new award categories, including the 'Chris Ryan Award' for iconic smoking characters. The hosts explore memorable movie plot twists and delve into survival scenarios from beloved films while pondering their own instincts in absurd situations. They thoughtfully assess real estate in cinema and engage in playful debates about sports scenes in non-sports films. With a nostalgic nod to 90s classics and humorous awards for overlooked performances, the conversation is a delightful celebration of film culture.

The hosts dive into the entertaining heist film 'Den of Thieves', comparing it to iconic crime classics. They explore its unexpected box office success and cultural impact, all while sharing humorous anecdotes. The conversation includes playful casting ideas, a hilarious debate on character motivations, and discussions about the quirks of heist narratives. Nostalgic memories intertwine with comedy as they reflect on memorable moments in crime cinema and examine how films like this have carved their niche amid evolving viewing habits.

Dive into the nostalgic world of high school football as the hosts reminisce about 'Friday Night Lights,' discussing its cultural impact and emotional storytelling. They explore Billy Bob Thornton's standout role and career resurgence, along with the nuanced character dynamics that define the series. The complexities of coaching and relationships in the film are critiqued, alongside insight into casting choices. With a blend of humor and reflection, they tackle the film's inaccuracies and highlight its lasting legacy in the sports genre.

Bill Simmons is joined by Kyle Brandt, a dynamic sports media co-host known for his engaging commentary. They dive into the holiday charm of 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,' defending its place as a Christmas classic. The duo critiques its absurd plot while celebrating standout performances, like Tim Curry's. They explore the nostalgic impact of the Talkboy toy and reminisce about childhood memories tied to the film. Their conversation balances humor and insightful reflections on sequels, child stardom, and the cultural significance of this 90s gem.

A deep dive into the high-stakes world of 'The Gambler' reveals intriguing discussions about its character complexities and themes of addiction. The hosts explore the film's journey to cult status, dissecting its dialogue and contrasting it with classic crime narratives. Expect a mix of humor as they critique character portrayals, explore bold casting choices, and reflect on cinematic trends. Also, nostalgic musings on breakfast cereals seamlessly blend with insights on casino psychology in this lively examination of film.

The hosts sip on a 1991 Chardonnay while diving into the corporate thriller 'Disclosure'. They reflect on 90s tech optimism versus today's digital realities. Gender dynamics and power plays are examined, alongside a humorous take on the film's portrayal of virtual reality. Deep dives into masculinity, complex female antagonists, and the evolution of sexuality in cinema spark lively discussions. They celebrate iconic moments from the film and explore the lasting impact on actors' careers, all mixed with a dose of nostalgia and humor.

The hosts dive into the cultural significance of 'Running Scared,' tying it to Yacht Rock and nostalgic moments. They explore Chicago's vibrant 80s cinematic landscape and the buddy cop genre, highlighting character dynamics. The discussion paints a humorous picture of 80s transportation trends and notable films. They humorously critique casting choices and reflect on how the film's themes resonate today. With lively anecdotes and playful debate, the episode celebrates the unique charm and enduring legacy of a beloved classic.