The Next Reel Film Podcast

“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 Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeSitting in the DarkJoin the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsBlueskyYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWhat are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for 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 Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeSitting in the DarkJoin the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsBlueskyYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWhat are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for 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 Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeSitting in the DarkJoin the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsBlueskyYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWhat are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for 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 Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeSitting in the DarkJoin the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsBlueskyYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWhat are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for 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.

“All of us, proving what? That we can go faster, and perhaps remain alive?”Racing to Glory: John Frankenheimer's Grand Prix (1966)When director John Frankenheimer set out to make Grand Prix in 1966, he faced competition from Steve McQueen's planned racing film. Through strategic negotiations and groundbreaking technical innovations, Frankenheimer created what would become the definitive Formula One racing film of its era, pioneering new camera techniques and shooting during actual F1 races. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we kick off our Car Racing series with a conversation about Grand Prix.A Technical Marvel on the TrackAndy and Pete dive deep into Frankenheimer's revolutionary filming techniques, particularly the mounted cameras that could pan and tilt while cars raced at full speed. The hosts marvel at how the film captures the intense vibrations and physical demands of banking turns at Monza, with Andy noting how this technical authenticity remains impressive even by modern standards.Melodrama vs. Racing ExcellenceWhile both hosts praise the racing sequences, they share frustrations with the film's romantic subplots. Pete and Andy point out how the relationships involving James Garner, Yves Montand, Brian Bedford, Eva Marie Saint, and Jessica Walter often drag down the pacing, though these elements help illustrate the psychological toll of the sport.Team Dynamics and Sport EvolutionPete provides fascinating context about how F1 team structures have evolved since the 1960s, explaining how Grand Prix accurately captured the complex relationships between drivers, engineers, and team owners. The hosts discuss how the film's portrayal of team conflicts remains relevant to modern F1 racing.Key Discussion Points:Revolutionary split-screen techniques and their increasing effectiveness throughout the filmThe authenticity of racing sequences filmed during actual F1 eventsStrong performances from Yves Montand and Jessica WalterTechnical innovations in racing cinematographyThe film's influence on modern racing moviesPortrayal of team dynamics and driver relationshipsThe ending involving the black flagFrankenheimer's successful negotiation with Ferrari and other racing teamsThe physical and psychological demands of F1 racingComplex relationships between drivers and their romantic partnersLegacy and ImpactBoth hosts agree that while the melodrama may date the film, the racing sequences remain extraordinary achievements in filmmaking. The technical innovations and authentic portrayal of Formula One racing continue to influence modern motorsport 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 SundriesEvolution of Monza F1 Track - 1922-2024Watch our conversation on YouTube!Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at LetterboxdScript OptionsTheatrical trailer Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeSitting in the DarkJoin the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsBlueskyYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWhat are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for AUDIBLE.

“I just can’t accept the idea of universal disease.”When Science Meets SurvivalVincent Price stars in the first adaptation of Richard Matheson's influential novel I Am Legend, bringing to screen a post-apocalyptic tale that would help define both vampire and zombie genres for decades to come. Directed by Sidney Salkow and Ubaldo Ragona, The Last Man on Earth follows Dr. Robert Morgan as he navigates a world where a mysterious plague has turned the population into vampire-like creatures. Shot in Italy on a modest budget, this AIP production would go on to influence filmmakers from George Romero to Stephen King. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the I Am Legend series with a conversation about the 1964 film The Last Man on Earth.Scientific Survival vs. Gothic HorrorPete and Andy explore how Vincent Price delivers an unusually restrained performance, trading his typical gothic flourishes for the bone-weary routine of a scientist trying to survive. While Andy found Price's portrayal somewhat lacking in emotional depth, Pete appreciated seeing a different side of the horror icon, particularly in scenes showing the mundane aspects of post-apocalyptic life.The Evolution of Monster MoviesThe hosts discuss how The Last Man on Earth bridges vampire and zombie genres, with creatures that display characteristics of both. They note how the film's scientific approach to vampirism was groundbreaking for its time, though the execution of the monsters themselves often falls short of threatening.Key Discussion Points:The film's influence on George Romero's Night of the Living DeadComparing adaptations of I Am Legend across different decadesThe moral implications of survival in a changed worldTechnical aspects of filming in Italy with a limited budgetThe effectiveness of black-and-white cinematographyAdaptation and InnovationBoth hosts agree that while The Last Man on Earth may not be the definitive adaptation of Matheson's novel, it remains the most faithful attempt. They particularly praise the film's exploration of isolation and humanity's capacity for adaptation, even as they critique its rushed pacing and underdeveloped character moments.Notable Elements:Vincent Price's lathe workshop scenesThe empty streets of Rome as a haunting backdropThe scientific approach to vampire mythologyThe film's influence on subsequent post-apocalyptic narrativesThe Last Man on Earth emerges as a fascinating historical piece that, despite its limitations, helped establish many tropes we now associate with both vampire and zombie genres. 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!Additional ResourcesVideo Content: Full episode discussion on YouTubeInternational Film Version: Italian-directed cut by Ubaldo B. Ragona (1964)Digital Streaming: Available on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, and other platforms (via Letterboxd)Film Transcript: Recent fan-created dialogue transcriptHistorical Media: Original 1964 theatrical trailerLiterary Source: Richard Matheson's 1954 novel "I Am Legend" Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeSitting in the DarkJoin the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsBlueskyYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWhat are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for AUDIBLE.