The Rewatchables

Join a lively discussion as the hosts dive into the making of Rocky II, highlighting Sylvester Stallone’s push to direct for a career comeback. They debate its foundational role in the franchise, celebrated moments, and movie magic like the iconic training montage. Revel in tales of audience reactions, on-set anecdotes, and the emotional highs of Apollo's locker room speech. The conversation touches on casting choices, nostalgic quirks from 1979, and the film's legacy, while questioning some plausibility issues, making for an entertaining rewatch experience!

Join Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan as they chat with Cousin Sal, a comedic force and gambling aficionado. They dive into the chaotic world of the 2005 film 'Two for the Money,' discussing its ties to early 2000s sports-advisor culture. Cousin Sal shares wild gambling stories while the trio hilariously critiques Pacino's commanding performance and McConaughey's charming persona. They also paint a vivid picture of outdated elements like fax machines and 900-numbers, while debating which film moments truly stand the test of time.

Bill Simmons and Kyle Brandt dive into the iconic 1985 film, exploring how it reflects the era's quirky teen culture. They compare it to Superbad, dissect the unique portrayal of AI in Lisa, and debate whether Gary and Wyatt are cinema's first hackers. Listeners are treated to hilarious anecdotes, including Robert Downey Jr.'s on-set antics. The hosts highlight memorable scenes, soundtracks, and cast choices while also discussing what has aged well or poorly. Join them for a nostalgic journey through 80s suburbia and its cinematic quirks!

Dive into the wild world of Brian De Palma's 'Snake Eyes' with insights on Nick Cage's audacious acting style and his 1990s career. The hosts dissect De Palma's cinematic flair, exploring elaborate techniques like the breathtaking 12-minute steadicam sequence. They ponder the late '90s vibe of the film, touching on everything from Atlantic City boxing to flip phones. Plus, enjoy humorous hypotheticals, intriguing casting what-ifs, and a look at the film's 'that guy' actors, all while examining its lasting impact on genre filmmaking.

Actor and producer Glen Powell joins to explore 'The Truman Show,' shedding light on its 90s cultural impact and Jim Carrey's unique dramatic performance. He shares his movie-night traditions and discusses the challenges of creating a 24/7 film set. The conversation dives into the film's deep themes, including 'Truman Syndrome' and its ethical questions related to surveillance. They also touch on alternate casting choices, reflect on its Oscar snubs, and imagine potential sequels based on Truman’s life post-escape.

The discussion dives deep into the legacy of Michael Myers and the 1981 sequel's rapid production. The hosts debate the necessity of giving Myers a backstory and the impact on the franchise. They dissect memorable kills, including a wild mistaken-identity death, while humorously examining 80s tropes. The nuances of Loomis's descent and the peculiar hospital setting spark intriguing insights. Additionally, there's a playful assessment of the film's dated elements, contribution to Halloween culture, and a pitch for alternate sequels.

In this discussion, Brian Koppelman, a talented screenwriter and producer, joins Bill Simmons to revisit the classic ‘Quiz Show.’ They delve into the film's compelling themes of media manipulation and class dynamics, exploring how it resonates today. Koppelman lauds the screenplay as a masterclass in structure and character depth. The hosts also dissect standout performances and Redford's role in casting and directing, debating the film's Oscars fate and historical accuracy. Their reflections highlight the film's prescience regarding reality TV and its enduring relevance.

The hosts dive into why 'Sneakers' is an underrated gem from the 90s, reflecting on Robert Redford's influence and River Phoenix's memorable performance. They explore the film's unique blend of paranoia and post-Cold War themes, discussing its memorable characters and iconic scenes. The conversation highlights James Earl Jones's impactful cameo and debates Ben Kingsley's performance. They also touch on modern surveillance relevance and playful nitpicks, ultimately celebrating 'Sneakers' as a charming rewatchable classic.

In this lively discussion, Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan are joined by Bill's dad, a devoted fan of 'Jeremiah Johnson.' They explore the film's deep connection to nature and its 1970s sensibility, comparing it to classic Westerns. Bill's dad shares personal anecdotes, shedding light on what makes the movie resonate. The trio debates memorable scenes and plots, including humorous 'when would we have died' moments. They even dream up alternate casting choices while pondering the film's legacy and the idea of modern adaptations.

The hosts delve into why ‘The Sting’ marks the perfect start to Redford Month, celebrating the collaboration of cinematic legends. They discuss the evolution of star reunions and how the film popularized con narratives. A lively debate unfolds about writing con vs. heist movies, considering modern digital influences on classic schemes. They analyze the film's intricate cons, iconic performances, and timeless style, along with its memorable scenes. Finally, they reflect on the movie's enduring impact and Redford's remarkable career.