The Next Reel Film Podcast

“I could have made mashed potatoes, but we’re having that tomorrow.”When Routine Becomes Revolution: Chantal Akerman's MasterpieceIn 1975, Belgian filmmaker Chantal Akerman created Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles, a groundbreaking examination of feminine domestic life that would later be named the greatest film of all time by Sight & Sound critics in 2022. With a modest budget of $120,000 from the Belgian government, Akerman assembled an all-female crew to create this 201-minute meditation on routine, featuring Delphine Seyrig as a widowed mother whose rigid daily schedule includes housework and afternoon sex work to support her teenage son. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue our Golden Jubilee: 1975's Pioneering Visions in Global Cinema series with a conversation about Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles.A Study in Slow CinemaWe discuss our initial reactions to the film's deliberately slow pacing, with Pete describing his evolution from frustration to fascination over the three-hour runtime. We explore how Akerman's "ethical editing" approach forces viewers to experience labor and routine exactly as Jeanne does, with no shortcuts, creating an unprecedented level of intimacy with the protagonist's daily life. (We also debate the concept of “ethical editing.”)Performance and Technical AchievementWe praise Delphine Seyrig's subtle performance, noting how she communicates volumes through minimal expression and gesture. We examine Akerman's static camera work and deliberate framing choices, discussing how technical elements like selective focus in hallway scenes might reflect both intentional artistic choices and production circumstances.Key Discussion Points:The film's unique position as a feminist masterwork that examines domestic labor and capitalismThe complex mother-son relationship between Jeanne and SylvainHow the film's structure builds tension through minimal disruptions to routineThe significance of the ending and its relationship to the preceding three hoursComparisons to other films about domestic work, including Roma and ParasiteThe film's journey to becoming Sight & Sound's #1 film and the implications of that recognitionLegacy and ImpactWe reflect on how Jeanne Dielman creates a cinematic experience that could not be effectively translated to any other medium. We discuss its growing critical appreciation over decades and debate whether its recent coronation as "greatest film of all time" helps or hinders its accessibility to new viewers.We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🎥 See Our Full Conversation on YouTube🍿 Watch the Film: Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical Trailer Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

“How different Barry’s fate might have been had he not fallen in love with Nora and had he not flung the wine at Captain Quinn’s face, but he was destined to be a wanderer and the battle with Quinn set him on his travels at a very early age, as you shall soon see.”From Novel to Screen: Kubrick's Aristocratic SatireStanley Kubrick's 1975 period drama Barry Lyndon transforms William Makepeace Thackeray's novel into a visually stunning examination of 18th-century European aristocracy. Starring Ryan O'Neal as the opportunistic Irish rogue Redmond Barry, the film employed groundbreaking NASA-developed lenses to capture authentic candlelit scenes. Originally met with mixed commercial success despite critical acclaim, the film has since been recognized as a masterpiece of cinematography and historical storytelling. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we kick off our Golden Jubilee: 1975's Pioneering Visions in Global Cinema series with a conversation about Barry Lyndon.The Power of NarrationWe explore how the third-person narrator fundamentally shapes the film's storytelling, with Pete surprisingly defending its necessity—notable given his general skepticism toward voiceovers. We discuss Kubrick's deliberate deviation from Thackeray's first-person narrative, creating an omniscient perspective that enhances the film's satirical elements.Character and PerformanceWe delve into Ryan O'Neal's portrayal of Barry, examining how his sometimes vacant performance effectively serves the character's journey from ambitious young man to failed aristocrat. We analyze Barry's relationship with Lord Bullingdon and the complex family dynamics that ultimately lead to his downfall.Technical MasteryDiscussion points include:The revolutionary use of NASA-developed Zeiss lenses for candlelit scenesKubrick's distinctive application of zoom shots and tracking shotsThe effective use of classical music, particularly Handel's SarabandeThe film's painterly composition, inspired by period artworkThe meticulous attention to period detail in costumes and setsContemporary RelevancePete draws fascinating parallels between Barry's story and modern capitalism, comparing him to a "18th-century gig worker" while Andy explores how the film's themes of social climbing and aristocratic fragility remain relevant today.Final ThoughtsWe both express deep appreciation for the film's artistic achievements and thematic complexity, despite its deliberate pacing. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🎥 See Our Full Conversation on YouTube🍿 Watch the Film: Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical Trailer📚 Adapted from The Luck of Barry Lyndon by William Makepeace Thackeray Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

“When you do horror films, do you go through a ritual purification before filming?”When Hair Attacks and Time Loops: Ju-on: The Grudge 2 Brings Spectacle to the FranchiseJu-on: The Grudge 2, released in 2003 and directed by Takashi Shimizu, marked a significant evolution in the franchise that began with the original short films. As the fourth installment in Shimizu's growing horror universe, this film followed a film crew working on a haunted house television show who become entangled in Kayako's curse. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we wrap up our Silver Screams: 25 Years of Ju-on series with a conversation about Ju-on: The Grudge 2.A Shift Toward SpectacleWe immediately noticed how this installment departed from the restrained approach of previous films. Rather than building slowly toward brief moments of terror, Ju-on: The Grudge 2 maintains higher intensity throughout, leaning into more elaborate supernatural sequences. Pete found himself both impressed by the conceptual ambition and amused by the execution, particularly noting how Kayako's increasingly active hair effects veered between genuinely creepy and unintentionally comedic.One of the most significant changes we identified was the narrative structure focusing on a film crew rather than disconnected individuals. This approach allows viewers to follow relationships between characters over extended periods, creating stronger emotional investment than the vignette-style storytelling of previous films. Pete particularly appreciated how seeing characters interact with each other before encountering supernatural elements made their eventual fates more impactful.Time Manipulation and InnovationWe spent considerable time discussing Shimizu's sophisticated approach to temporal storytelling. The sequence where characters hear mysterious thumping against walls, only to discover it’s something from their own future, exemplified this innovative approach. We found these temporal loops conceptually brilliant, even when execution didn't always meet expectations.Notable Discussion Points:Pete's shift from dismissing Kayako as a threat to finding her appearances comedicHow the film crew setting provides better character development than previous domestic settingsThe climactic birth sequence as symbolic rebirth of evilToshio's continued effectiveness compared to Kayako's diminishing returnsThe challenge of maintaining freshness across multiple franchise entriesFinal AssessmentDespite Pete's ongoing struggles with Kayako as a supernatural threat, we both found Ju-on: The Grudge 2 more engaging than its predecessors. The film's willingness to embrace larger-scale horror and develop complex character relationships created a viewing experience that felt both familiar and refreshingly different. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel--when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🎥 See Our Full Conversation on YouTube🍿 Watch the Film: Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical Trailer Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

“C’mon! Take a swing at me the way Sam Spade would!”A Detective Story Lost in the Florida SunNight Moves emerged from the politically charged atmosphere of early 1970s Hollywood, with screenwriter Alan Sharp crafting a neo-noir that deliberately subverted detective story conventions. Filmed in fall 1973 but delayed until 1975, Arthur Penn's direction paired Gene Hackman with Jennifer Warren in what would become a fascinating study of post-Watergate disillusionment wrapped in sun-drenched Florida locations rather than traditional noir shadows. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—for this member bonus entry in our Golden Jubilee: 1975's Pioneering Visions in Global Cinema series with a conversation about Night Moves.Character-Driven Neo-Noir ExcellencePete and Andy discover unexpected depth in this deliberately confusing detective story, finding that Night Moves succeeds most when character development drives plot mechanics. We particularly praise Gene Hackman's portrayal of Harry Moseby, a former football star turned private investigator who proves remarkably inept at connecting dots in both his professional cases and personal relationships. Andy notes how Hackman transforms what could have been a standard detective role into something much darker and more psychologically complex, embodying a man who excels at solving other people's problems while remaining completely unable to address his own internal conflicts.The Jennifer Warren FactorWe both express genuine enthusiasm for Jennifer Warren's magnetic screen presence as Paula, calling her performance electric and commanding. Pete draws comparisons to young Jane Fonda, highlighting Warren's ability to deliver dialogue that's simultaneously flirty and hostile. Their discussion reveals how Warren's natural charisma elevates what could have been a standard femme fatale role into something more nuanced and compelling, making them wish she had appeared in more films during this era.Plot Mechanics vs. Thematic AmbitionsThe conversation reveals a central tension in Night Moves between its deliberately obfuscated plot and its thematic goals. While Andy initially struggled with the film's confusing criminal mechanics involving stolen artifacts and Florida smuggling operations, we both ultimately appreciate how the narrative confusion serves the larger themes about post-Watergate uncertainty and the impossibility of complete understanding. Pete acknowledges the script's weakness in certain areas while praising Alan Sharp's naturalistic dialogue and character interactions.Key Discussion Points:The film's relationship to 1970s political disillusionment and Watergate-era paranoiaComparisons to Chinatown and how both films handle moral ambiguity and incomplete understandingThe problematic casting of 16-year-old Melanie Griffith and how the film handles her character's sexualityArthur Penn's direction compared to his more celebrated works like Bonnie and ClydeThe supporting cast including Harris Yulin, James Woods, and Susan ClarkMichael Small's 1970s minimalist score and its effectivenessThe significance of chess metaphors and Harry Mosby's tendency to replay famous games rather than create his ownHow the sun-drenched Florida setting subverts traditional noir visual conventionsA Successful RevisitAndy's dramatic reassessment demonstrates how Night Moves rewards patient viewing and acceptance of its deliberately frustrating structure. We both conclude that while the film's criminal plot remains unnecessarily convoluted, the character work and thematic ambitions create a compelling meditation on uncertainty, moral compromise, and the impossibility of heroic resolution in 1970s America. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🍿 Watch the Film: Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical Trailer Want More?This is a member bonus episode! While we'd love your support, you'll love what membership brings: monthly bonus episodes like this one, ad-free listening, early releases, exclusive Discord channels, and voting rights on future member movies. It truly pays to be a member.Ready to join? Visit TruStory FM to learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.

“Please stop tormenting me!”From V-Cinema to Theatrical Horror: The Evolution of Ju-on: The GrudgeAfter finding success with his V-Cinema entries Ju-on: The Curse and its sequel, director Takashi Shimizu brought his haunting vision to theaters in 2002 with Ju-on: The Grudge. This theatrical adaptation expanded on his original concept while introducing new audiences to the cursed Saeki house and its vengeful spirits. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Silver Screams: 25 Years of Ju-on series with a conversation about Ju-on: The Grudge.A Tale of Two ViewingsWe approach the film from distinctly different perspectives, with Andy having seen this theatrical version first, while Pete’s experience is largely based on his recent watches of the two previous V-Cinema entries. This colors their discussion as we explore how the increased budget and production values affected the scares and overall impact of the story.Evolving Horror ElementsWe dive deep into how Shimizu expanded his supernatural toolkit, from the addition of the three schoolgirl ghosts to new manifestations of Kayako's curse. Andy particularly appreciates these innovations, while Pete finds the original V-Cinema versions more effectively haunting, leading to an interesting debate about horror presentation in different formats.Cultural Context and InterpretationA fascinating tangent emerges as Pete proposes viewing the film as a metaphor for dementia, connecting various elements from the older characters' interactions with the spirits to the disorienting non-linear structure. This interpretation opens new ways of understanding the film's approach to horror.Key discussion points include:The film's non-linear storytelling and how it affects audience engagementEvolution of supernatural elements from the V-Cinema versionsUse of sound design and its role in creating effective scaresThe significance of the "normal" house as a horror settingTreatment of older characters and their connection to the spirit worldComparison to American remakes and adaptation choicesTechnical innovations in ghost appearances and manifestationsCultural differences in horror presentation and expectationsFinal ThoughtsWhile Andy finds it the strongest entry in the franchise thus far, Pete is less positive but finds a slightly growing appreciation through the discussion. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🎥 See Our Full Conversation on YouTube🍿 Watch the Film: Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical Trailer Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

“You’ll die if you remain here!”Expanding the Curse: Exploring Ju-on: The Curse 2Released just one month after its predecessor in March 2000, Ju-on: The Curse 2 continues director Takashi Shimizu's haunting tale of a curse born from powerful rage. Made for Japanese V-cinema (direct-to-video) with an extremely tight nine-day shooting schedule shared with the first film, this second installment notably incorporates about 30 minutes of footage from Ju-on: The Curse before launching into new territory. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Silver Screams: 25 Years of Ju-on series with a conversation about Ju-on: The Curse 2.A Curse ContinuesPete and Andy discuss the unusual structure of incorporating so much footage from the first film, with Pete noting this choice makes more sense given the V-cinema market's typical viewing patterns. Andy appreciates how this approach allows Shimizu to lean into repetition as a storytelling device, reflecting the cyclical nature of the curse itself.Evolution of HorrorThe hosts explore how Ju-on: The Curse 2 expands its supernatural elements, particularly in the multiplication of Kayako's appearances. They debate whether this evolution serves the story or potentially diminishes the impact of the original's more focused approach. Both agree the film's daytime horror sequences remain particularly effective.Key Discussion PointsThe film's innovative use of multiple Kayakos in the classroom sceneHow the curse extends beyond the house to affect connected individualsThe effectiveness of minimal exposition in creating tensionThe hosts' differing views on whether this should have been combined with the first filmShimizu's creative solutions to budget constraints, particularly in the final sceneThe impact of daytime horror sequencesThe significance of unexplained elements in Japanese horror storytellingCharacter development and narrative progression debatesThe film's position within the larger Ju-on franchiseFinal ThoughtsWhile Pete struggles with the film's structure and recycled content, both hosts appreciate Shimizu's ability to create effective horror sequences on a minimal budget. Andy particularly enjoys how the film expands the curse's mythology, even if some elements remain deliberately unexplained. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🎥 See Our Full Conversation on YouTube🍿 Watch the Film: Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical Trailer Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

“The family that used to live there, they all either died or went missing.”From V-Cinema to Global Horror: The Birth of Ju-onTakashi Shimizu's Ju-on: The Curse (2000) emerged from two successful short films to launch one of Japan's most influential horror franchises. Originally released direct-to-video as part of Japan's V-Cinema movement, this low-budget supernatural horror film established the haunting mythology of Kayako, Toshio, and their curse that would eventually reach global audiences. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we kick off our Silver Screams: 25 Years of Ju-on series with a conversation about Ju-on: The Curse.Breaking Down the CurseWe dive deep into the film's non-linear narrative structure, discussing how the six interconnected stories build a compelling mythology around the cursed house. We explore how Shimizu masterfully creates tension through minimal effects and strategic camera placement, particularly praising the effective use of still shots and lighting to build dread.Narrative Complexity and Character ConnectionsWe spend considerable time untangling the film's timeline, tracking how characters like Kobayashi, the Murakami family, and the real estate siblings connect to the central curse. Andy particularly appreciates how the film subverts traditional ghost story resolution tropes, while Pete notes the innovative approach to spiritual connection through the sake-drinking test.Key discussion points include: The original curse's creation through Takeo's jealous rageHow the curse spreads beyond the house's physical boundariesThe significance of Toshio's cat sounds and appearancesCultural context of home visits by teachersThe effectiveness of low-budget horror techniquesComparison to other J-horror franchises like RingTechnical Achievement and LegacyWe both praise Shimizu's ability to create genuinely unsettling moments despite budget constraints, particularly highlighting scenes like Kayako's stair-crawl and Toshio's classroom appearance. We discuss how these techniques would influence both future installments and Western horror cinema.A Franchise FoundationWhile acknowledging some rough edges in dialogue and performance, we agree that Ju-on: The Curse successfully establishes the franchise's core elements of cyclical fatalism and inescapable supernatural vengeance. The conversation touches on how these themes would be developed in subsequent films and international remakes. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🎥 See Our Full Conversation on YouTube🍿 Watch Takashi Shimizu’s Short Films Katasumi and 4444444444 (1998)🍿 Watch the Film: Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical Trailer Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

“Fight like a girl.”Dancing with Assassins: The Latest Chapter in the John Wick UniverseBallerina, released in 2025, expands the John Wick universe with Ana de Armas stepping into the lead role as Eve, a trained assassin seeking revenge. Director Len Wiseman, known for the Underworld series, takes the helm with a reported $90 million budget. The film, originally a spec script by Shay Hatten, was adapted to fit within the John Wick timeline, specifically during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the John Wick series with a conversation about Ballerina.A Complicated Dance with ContinuityWe explore how Ballerina integrates into the established John Wick timeline, with particular attention to the film's placement during the events of Chapter 3. We discuss the challenges of maintaining continuity while expanding the universe, especially regarding John Wick's involvement despite his excommunicado status.Action Sequences and ChoreographyWe highlight several standout action sequences, including the innovative plate fight in an Alpine restaurant, the grenade battle with the arms dealer, and the climactic flamethrower sequence. We both agree that while the stunts may not reach the heights of previous John Wick entries, they maintain the franchise's high standards for action choreography.Script and Story ElementsPete expresses concerns about the script's dialogue and character development, while Andy finds the writing serviceable within the established universe. They debate the effectiveness of the Cult as antagonists and the integration of Eve's personal story into the broader John Wick mythology.Key discussion points include:The integration of ballet themes and training into the assassination worldAna de Armas's performance and physical commitment to the roleThe expansion of the John Wick universe beyond Keanu ReevesThe potential future of the franchise and announced spinoff projectsThe film's box office performance and implications for future installmentsThe role of Winston and the Continental in the broader narrativeTechnical achievements in stunt work and practical effectsFinal ThoughtsWhile we both agree Ballerina may be the weakest entry in the franchise thus far, we find enough merit in its action sequences and world-building to recommend it as a worthy addition to the John Wick universe. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🎥 See Our Full Conversation on YouTube🍿 Watch the Film: Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical Trailer Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

“On behalf of the students from Vince Lombardi High who are here tonight, I'd just like to say one thing: Screw you, Principal Togar, we made it to the concert anyway!”Rock 'n' Roll Rules the School: A Corman Classic Gets WildRock 'n' Roll High School (1979) emerged from Roger Corman's desire to tap into the teen movie craze following the success of Grease. Originally conceived as "Disco High," the project evolved when director Allan Arkush convinced Corman to feature punk rock instead, ultimately landing The Ramones as the film's musical stars. With a modest budget of $200,000, Arkush (with uncredited help from Joe Dante) crafted a frenetic comedy that would become a beloved cult classic. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Roger Corman series with a conversation about Rock 'n' Roll High School.A Perfect Storm of Punk and ComedyPete and Andy dive into their shared enthusiasm for this high-energy film, with both hosts expressing particular delight in its escalating absurdity. They discuss how the movie consistently takes every scene one step further than expected, from exploding mice to Eaglebauer's elaborate underground operation run from a TARDIS-like bathroom stall complete with his own secretary.Performance and CharactersThe hosts praise P.J. Soles' performance as Riff Randall, noting how effectively she carries the film despite being 29 playing a teenager. They discuss Mary Woronov's memorable turn as Principal Togar, and Clint Howard's scene-stealing role as Eaglebauer, the school's underground fixer.Key Discussion Points:The film's surprisingly chaste nature for a Corman productionThe Ramones' presence and performance throughout the filmThe movie's unique position in the teen film genreThe satirical elements of high school authorityThe film's remarkable influence on later teen comediesLegacy and ImpactPete and Andy reflect on how Rock 'n' Roll High School fits into both the teen movie genre and the Corman catalogue, noting its distinctive blend of music, comedy, and rebellion. They discuss its theatrical release strategy and eventual success as a midnight movie favorite.We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Film SundriesWatch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at LetterboxdTheatrical trailer

“When was the last time you won a race?”Racing to Victory: Apple's F1 Brings Hollywood Formula to the TrackJoseph Kosinski's 2023 film F1 represents Apple's ambitious entry into big-budget theatrical releases, with a reported $300 million budget and unprecedented integration of real F1 racing footage, teams, and personalities. Starring Brad Pitt as aging driver Sonny Hayes alongside Damson Idris as hotshot rookie Joshua Pearce, the film follows the struggling Apex racing team's efforts to avoid being sold off by winning races in their final season. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we add a member bonus episode to our Car Racing series with a conversation about F1.Technical Achievement Meets Hollywood FormulaPete and Andy explore how F1 breaks new ground in racing cinematography while adhering to familiar storytelling tropes. Pete celebrates the film's unprecedented access to actual F1 races and integration of real personalities like Lewis Hamilton, while Andy notes the predictable character arcs and relationship dynamics.Team Dynamics Take Center StageThe hosts dive deep into how F1 uniquely showcases the team aspect of Formula One racing, from the intricate pit crew choreography to the engineering challenges faced by Kerry Condon's character Kate. They discuss how the film illuminates the massive financial stakes and technical complexity of modern F1 racing.Key Discussion Points:The innovative filming techniques used to capture authentic race footageBrad Pitt's character as an agent of controlled chaos on the trackThe integration of real F1 personalities and locationsApple's unprecedented marketing approach including haptic trailersThe balance between technical authenticity and Hollywood conventionsThe not-so-great representation of female characters, particularly Kerry Condon's roleThe film's handling of team dynamics versus individual achievementFinal ThoughtsWhile Pete enthusiastically embraces the film's technical achievements and racing sequences, Andy appreciates the detailed look at F1 team operations while expressing frustration with conventional plot elements. Both hosts agree the film succeeds in showcasing the collaborative nature of modern Formula One racing. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!🎬 Watch & Discover🍿 Watch the Film: Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd📽️ Original Theatrical TrailerWant More?This is a member bonus episode! While we'd love your support, you'll love what membership brings: monthly bonus episodes like this one, ad-free listening, early releases, exclusive Discord channels, and voting rights on future member movies. It truly pays to be a member.Ready to join? Visit TruStory FM to learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.