The Next Reel Film Podcast

“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.

“It's simplifying the cells, until there's no difference between a cell in your eye or your toe.”Alien Ripoffs, Mutations, and Space Station RomanceIn 1982, legendary B-movie producer Roger Corman released Forbidden World, a low-budget sci-fi horror film that shamelessly borrowed elements from Ridley Scott's 1979 classic Alien. Directed by Allan Holzman and starring Jesse Vint and June Chadwick, this exploitation flick follows a space marshal investigating a deadly mutant creature on a remote research station. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Roger Corman series with a conversation about Forbidden World.We dive into the schlocky delights of this Alien knockoff, from its cheap special effects to its gratuitous nudity. We discuss the film's place in Corman's canon of quickly produced, low-budget genre fare, and how it compares to other Alien imitators of the era.We highlight some of the more memorable aspects of Forbidden World, including:The film's creative use of recycled sets and footage from other Corman productions like Battle Beyond the StarsThe surprisingly effective creature effects, despite the obvious budget constraintsThe scene-stealing performance of Fox Harris as the eccentric Dr. CalThe copious amounts of female nudity, a hallmark of many Corman productionsWe also touch on some of the film's shortcomings, such as its derivative plot, uneven pacing, and occasional lapses in logic. However, we both agree that Forbidden World delivers exactly what it promises—a cheesy, exploitation-laden sci-fi romp that's perfect for fans of low-budget genre cinema.Additional topics covered in the conversation include:The film's not-so-subtle sexual undertonesCorman's influence on the careers of many notable filmmakers, including James Cameron, who worked on Forbidden World's art directionThe effectiveness of the film's practical effects, particularly the gory scenes involving the mutant creatureIn conclusion, while Forbidden World may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it's an entertaining example of the type of low-budget genre filmmaking that Roger Corman excelled at producing. We have a great time discussing this schlocky 1982 Alien knockoff, praising its creative practical effects and cheesy exploitation elements while also acknowledging its numerous flaws. 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 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.

“Somewhere, the zebra was dancing.”Racing Through Emotions: A Dog's Tale of Life on and off the TrackThe Art of Racing in the Rain, Simon Curtis's 2019 adaptation of Garth Stein's beloved novel, brings together the worlds of professional racing and canine companionship. With Milo Ventimiglia as aspiring race car driver Denny Swift and Kevin Costner as the voice of his philosophical dog Enzo, the film attempts to merge multiple genres while exploring life's deeper meanings through the unique perspective of man's best friend. Originally developed in 2009 with Patrick Dempsey attached to star, the project ultimately became the first film released by Fox after Disney's acquisition. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Car Racing series with a conversation about The Art of Racing in the Rain.A Different Kind of Racing FilmWe discuss how The Art of Racing in the Rain diverges significantly from traditional racing films, focusing more on relationships and life lessons than actual racing. We explore how the film's title, while creative, may have set incorrect expectations for viewers seeking high-octane racing action. In our discussion, we examine how director Simon Curtis handles the balance between the racing elements and the more emotional family story.Narrative Choices and Character DevelopmentWe dive deep into the film's narrative structure, particularly questioning the effectiveness of Kevin Costner's voicework as Enzo. We debate the decision to maintain Costner's mature voice throughout the dog's life and discuss how the highly sophisticated vocabulary and philosophical musings of the canine narrator impact the viewing experience. Our conversation explores whether the anthropomorphization of Enzo helps or hinders the story's emotional impact.Key Discussion Points:The film's position as both a racing movie and a dog movieThe effectiveness of the racing sequences versus the family dramaThe surreal zebra hallucination sequence as a standout momentThe handling of serious themes like illness and custody battlesHow the movie handles its metaphysical elementsFinal ThoughtsWhile we acknowledge the film's appeal to certain audiences, we ultimately find ourselves disconnected from its emotional core. We discuss how The Art of Racing in the Rain represents a departure from traditional racing films and debate whether its attempts to blend genres succeed. Regardless, 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 our conversation on YouTube!Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at LetterboxdScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal Material 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

“We're lighter, we're faster, and if that don't work, we're nastier.”Racing Against Corporate Politics: Ford v Ferrari (2019)James Mangold's Ford v Ferrari dramatizes the true story of Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles' quest to build a Ford race car capable of defeating Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Originally developed under the title "Go Like Hell" with Michael Mann attached to direct, the film evolved into a $97.6 million production examining the tension between passionate racers and corporate oversight. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Car Racing series with a conversation about Ford v Ferrari.Corporate Dynamics vs Racing SpiritPete and Andy explore how the film's real conflict isn't between Ford and Ferrari but rather between passionate racers and corporate bureaucracy. They discuss how Josh Lucas's portrayal of Leo Beebe represents the film's true antagonist, though historical accounts differ on the extent of his interference. The hosts particularly appreciate Tracy Letts' nuanced performance as Henry Ford II, especially the emotional test drive scene that reveals the human side of the corporate titan.Technical Achievement and Historical AccuracyThe conversation delves into the film's impressive racing sequences, which combined practical effects, camera rigs, and minimal CGI to create authentic period racing footage. Pete notes how the film manages to make the potentially tedious 24-hour race engaging while maintaining historical accuracy about Ferrari's mechanical failures and the controversial photo finish ending.Key discussion points include:Christian Bale's embodiment of Ken Miles versus Matt Damon's interpretation of Carroll ShelbyThe family dynamics between Miles, his wife Molly, and son PeterHow the film explains complex racing concepts through natural character interactionsThe significance of the "7000 RPM" moment as both character development and historical commentaryThe hosts' differing views on whether the title Ford v Ferrari accurately represents the film's core conflictLegacy and ImpactPete and Andy reflect on how Ford v Ferrari succeeds where previous racing films struggled, balancing technical detail with emotional depth. It was quite a successful film, and provides lots to discuss. 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 our conversation on YouTube!Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at LetterboxdScript OptionsTheatrical 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 closer you are to death, the more alive you feel. It's a wonderful way to live. It's the only way to drive.”Racing Against Reality: Ron Howard's High-Speed DramaRon Howard's Rush (2013) dramatizes the intense 1976 Formula One rivalry between James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) and Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl). The film garnered attention for its stylized portrayal of the racing world, though Howard's approach to the true story sparked debate about historical accuracy versus cinematic entertainment. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Car Racing series with a conversation about Rush (2013).The Racing vs. The RealityPete and Andy explore how Howard's direction prioritizes dramatic tension over historical authenticity, particularly in the portrayal of Hunt and Lauda's relationship. Pete, an F1 enthusiast, notes that the film's decision to amplify their rivalry undermines the fascinating complexity of their actual collegial off-track relationship. Andy appreciates the performances but questions the narrative's divided focus between the two drivers.Technical Execution and StorytellingThe hosts debate Howard's racing sequences, with Pete finding them overly stylized and "Michael Bay-esque," while Andy acknowledges their effectiveness for general audiences unfamiliar with F1. They discuss how the film's voice-over narration and character development choices impact the overall storytelling.Key Discussion PointsThe film's unclear protagonist focus, splitting attention between Hunt and LaudaDaniel Brühl's acclaimed performance and physical transformationThe film's handling of the racing team dynamics and season structureHoward's visualization of the sport compared to earlier racing filmsThe relationship portrayals, including Olivia Wilde as Suzy Miller and Alexandra Maria Lara as Marlene LaudaThe balance between racing sequences and character developmentThe simplification of F1's complex point system and team strategiesThe impact of Howard's stylistic choices on the film's authenticityFinal ThoughtsWhile both hosts appreciate elements of Rush, particularly Brühl's performance, they agree the film sacrifices some of the most interesting aspects of the true story in favor of more conventional dramatic beats. The conversation highlights how the film serves better as general entertainment than as a faithful portrayal of F1 racing history.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 our conversation on YouTube!Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at LetterboxdScript OptionsTheatrical 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

“It’s a long race.”Racing to Nowhere: Steve McQueen's Polarizing Vision of Le MansSteve McQueen's passion project Le Mans (1971) emerged from a tumultuous production history, shifting from its original incarnation as "Day of the Champion" with director John Sturges to a more experimental documentary-style racing film under Lee H. Katzin. After losing creative control and his salary to keep the project alive, McQueen delivered a divisive exploration of the legendary 24-hour endurance race that would ultimately lead to his production company's bankruptcy. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Car Racing series with a conversation about Le Mans.The Documentary ApproachPete and Andy explore how Le Mans takes a radical departure from traditional racing film narratives, eschewing conventional storytelling in favor of an immersive, documentary-style experience. While Pete appreciates the authenticity of being inside the claustrophobic racing vehicles, Andy struggles with the film's glacial pacing and minimal dialogue, finding the experimental approach more frustrating than enlightening.Racing Without StoryThe hosts debate the film's unique structure, with only approximately 12 lines of dialogue for McQueen and virtually no traditional character development. Pete, as a racing enthusiast, finds value in the technical accuracy and racing footage, while Andy laments the lack of coherent storytelling and character relationships.Key Discussion Points:The complex production history involving multiple directors and McQueen's creative visionComparison to Grand Prix and their different approaches to racing filmsThe documentary-style filming techniques and their effectivenessThe minimal dialogue and character development choicesThe authenticity of the racing experience versus narrative engagementTechnical achievements in capturing the race environmentThe film's influence on future racing moviesThe hosts' dramatically different ratingsLegacy and ImpactDespite its commercial failure, Le Mans has gained a cult following among racing enthusiasts for its authentic portrayal of the legendary endurance race. The hosts discuss how the film's experimental approach influenced future racing films and documentaries, while debating whether its artistic choices ultimately serve or hinder the viewing experience.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 our conversation on YouTube!Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at LetterboxdScript OptionsTheatrical 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

“Our lives are the sum of our choices.”The Final Mission: Breaking Down Mission: Impossible - The Final ReckoningChristopher McQuarrie's Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning (2025) marks the ambitious conclusion to Tom Cruise's 29-year tenure as IMF agent Ethan Hunt. With a reported budget of $400 million, making it one of the most expensive films ever produced, this eighth installment brings together elements from across the franchise while pushing the boundaries of practical stunt work. The film faced multiple production delays due to COVID-19 and the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike before finally reaching theaters in May 2025. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we return to the Mission: Impossible series in a surprise member bonus episode with a conversation about Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning.A Measured Opening ActPete and Andy discuss the film's extended opening sequence, with Pete finding the first hour somewhat bloated while Andy appreciates the careful franchise connections being established. Both hosts note how the film works to integrate elements from previous installments, particularly callbacks to the first and third films in the series.Standout SequencesThe hosts spend considerable time analyzing two major action sequences: the submarine recovery mission and the climactic biplane chase. Both agree these represent some of the most impressive practical stunt work in the franchise, with particular praise for Tom Cruise's commitment to performing his own stunts even at age 60+.Character Development and CallbacksAn unexpected highlight for both hosts was the return of a particular character from the first film, with Pete particularly praising how his scene with Ethan Hunt emphasized emotional weight over comedy. They also discuss Hayley Atwell's Grace taking up the mantle from Rebecca Ferguson's character, agreeing her presence felt natural within the team dynamic.Key Discussion Points:The revelation of the Rabbit's Foot's true nature from Mission: Impossible IIIGabriel's evolution as an antagonist after being abandoned by the EntityThe emotional resonance of Luther's sacrificeThe practical versus CGI elements in the major stunt sequencesThe film's approach to providing closure while leaving possibilities openHow the movie handles its connections to previous installmentsThe evolution of the IMF team dynamicTom Cruise's dedication to practical stunt workFinal ThoughtsWhile Pete and Andy differ slightly on the pacing of the opening act, both agree Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning delivers a satisfying conclusion to the franchise. The combination of practical stunt work, emotional depth, and franchise connectivity creates what they consider a fitting send-off for Tom Cruise's Ethan Hunt. 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 our conversation on YouTube!Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at LetterboxdTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialThis is a member bonus episode. We'd love it if you became a member to support our show, but you’d love it because of everything you get. We have monthly member bonus episodes that only members can access. You also get other monthly member bonus episodes, access to members-only Discord channels, and early releases for every episode. Plus, no ads! And you get to vote on the movies we discuss in our members only episodes! What can we say? It pays to be a member. Learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership — visit TruStory FM.

“I got a better chance of handling him when he's pie-eyed. The front seat don't know it, but the back is still pulling the strings.”Racing Across America with Roger Corman's CannonballIn our latest member bonus episode, we dive into Paul Bartel's 1976 action comedy Cannonball, produced by Roger Corman's New World Pictures. Made with a modest budget of $780,000, this unauthorized take on the real-life Cannonball Baker Sea-to-Shining-Sea Memorial Trophy Dash features David Carradine as a recently released convict entering an illegal cross-country race from Santa Monica Pier to New York. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue our Roger Corman celebration with this early entry in the cross-country racing genre.A Race Without a CountryPete and Andy discuss how Cannonball struggles to create a genuine sense of cross-country scope, with the film seemingly transitioning directly from Los Angeles to New York with little in between. Despite this limitation, they find entertainment value in Paul Bartel's character-focused approach, particularly his own memorable performance as a lounge-singing mobster.Characters Over CarsThe hosts explore how the film compensates for its modest racing sequences by focusing on its eccentric cast of characters. From David Carradine's brooding anti-hero to the three women in their van and Beutell Morris's car thief with questionable pickup lines, the film succeeds more as a character study than as a racing film.Key Discussion Points:• The surprising involvement of the Shaw Brothers Studio as co-producers• Notable cameos including Martin Scorsese, Sylvester Stallone, Roger Corman, Don Simpson, Joe Dante, Allan Arkush, and Jonathan Kaplan• The film's influence on later cross-country racing films like The Cannonball Run• Paul Bartel's apparent disinterest in car racing affecting the final product• The real history of the Cannonball Baker race and its enduring legacy• The impressive array of vehicles featured, including the 1968 Dodge Charger, Pontiac Trans Am, De Tomaso Pantera, Chevrolet Corvette, and 1969 Ford Mustang• How the film balances action with character development• The odd subplot involving identical cars and mysterious motivationsThe Legacy of CannonballWhile both hosts found entertainment value in the film, they agree it falls short of both serious racing films and pure chaos movies like Death Race 2000. However, they appreciate its place in racing film history and its influence on later, bigger-budget cross-country racing films.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 LetterboxdScript OptionsTheatrical 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.