The Next Reel Film Podcast

“You sure you thought this all the way through?”From UFC to the Big Screen: How Amazon's Remake Came to BeAfter years of development, Amazon Studios greenlit a modern remake of the 1989 cult classic Road House with Jake Gyllenhaal stepping into Patrick Swayze's shoes. Doug Liman signed on to direct, bringing his action expertise to the project. The production made headlines when they secured UFC star Conor McGregor for his acting debut, adding authenticity to the film's fight sequences. However, controversy emerged when Amazon decided to skip a theatrical release in favor of streaming, leading to public disagreement between Liman and the studio. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we wrap up this return to our Movies and Their Remakes series with a conversation about Road House (2024).Fighting Talk: Breaking Down This Modern TakeIn our discussion, we explore how this remake both honors and diverges from the original. While Gyllenhaal brings his own charming interpretation to the role of Dalton, the film makes significant changes to the character's backstory that didn't necessarily improve upon the source material. We debate the effectiveness of these changes and whether they serve the story or simply modernize it for the sake of change.Key Elements That Pack a PunchDoug Liman's dynamic direction and innovative fight scene cinematographyThe chemistry between Gyllenhaal and McGregor, despite the latter's controversial castingBilly Magnussen's entertaining performance as the antagonistThe shift from the original's Missouri setting to the Florida KeysChanges to the musical elements that defined the originalDespite some missteps in attempting to "fix" elements of the original that weren't broken, Road House (2024) delivers as an entertaining action film that stands on its own merits. While we both enjoyed the movie, we recognize it may not quite reach the cult status of its predecessor. 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.

“I want you to be nice, until it’s time to NOT be nice.”From Bar Fights to Box Office: The Making of a Cult ClassicIn the late 1980s, United Artists sought to capitalize on Patrick Swayze's rising star power following the success of Dirty Dancing. The studio paired him with director Rowdy Herrington for what was pitched as "the best drive-in movie ever made." The film's original casting included Annette Bening as Dr. Clay, but she was replaced by Kelly Lynch due to reported chemistry issues with Swayze. Despite initial skepticism from critics, the $15 million production would go on to become a cultural phenomenon. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we return to our Movies and Their Remakes series with a conversation about Herrington’s 1989 film Road House.Bouncing Through the Film's Deeper ThemesThe film cleverly reinterprets classic Western tropes through the lens of late 1980s sensibilities. We discuss how Dalton embodies the archetype of the wandering hero, much like characters from films such as Shane and Seven Samurai. Furthermore, the movie explores themes of authoritarian capitalism through Ben Gazzara's villainous Brad Wesley, while simultaneously delivering crowd-pleasing action sequences and memorable character moments.Elements That Make Road House Stand OutJeff Healey's authentic musical performances that evolve alongside the bar's transformationThe distinction between bouncers and "coolers" in bar cultureSam Elliott's compelling performance as Wade Garrett, despite the ‘controversial’ lack of his signature mustacheThe film's ability to appeal to multiple audiences through strategic character developmentDean Cundey's cinematography capturing both brutal fight scenes and sensual momentsA Lasting Impact on Popular CultureRoad House has demonstrated remarkable staying power, spawning a theatrical musical adaptation, a direct-to-DVD sequel, and most recently, a high-profile remake. While initially receiving Razzie nominations, the film has been embraced by audiences and reappraised by critics over the years. Both hosts found themselves thoroughly entertained by this blend of philosophy, fisticuffs, and Patrick Swayze's undeniable charisma. 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.

“What good is a sword against sorcery?”From Barbarian to Family-Friendly FantasyAfter the success of Conan the Barbarian in 1982, producer Dino De Laurentiis wanted to create a more family-friendly sequel. He recruited director Richard Fleischer and turned to comic book writers Roy Thomas and Gerry Conway to craft a PG-rated story. With a screenplay by Stanley Mann, Universal Pictures aimed to broaden the franchise's appeal while maintaining its sword-and-sorcery roots. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Conan series with a conversation about Fleischer’s 1984 film Conan the Destroyer.Destroying Expectations with Comic Book FlairThe shift from the gritty, violent tone of the first film to a more lighthearted adventure creates interesting discussion points. While the comic book influence brings fresh energy to the franchise, the movie struggles to balance serious fantasy elements with comedic moments. The addition of characters like Tracey Walter's Malak as comic relief and Wilt Chamberlain's Bombaata as a double-crossing warrior presents both opportunities and challenges for the narrative.A Journey Through Cast and Creative ChoicesThe film showcases notable performances and creative decisions that deserve attention:Grace Jones delivers an intense, committed performance as ZulaAndré the Giant appears uncredited as the Dagoth monsterBasil Poledouris returns with another masterful musical scoreThe mirror room sequence features impressive practical effects despite questionable creature designSarah Douglas brings regal menace to Queen TaramisOlivia d'Abo debuts as Princess Jehnna in an underwritten roleThe Legend ContinuesWhile Conan the Destroyer may not reach the dramatic heights of its predecessor, it represents an interesting experiment in broadening the appeal of the franchise. The lighter tone and increased emphasis on humor might disappoint hardcore fans, but the film maintains enough sword-and-sorcery spectacle to remain entertaining. 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.

“Get it up or I’ll cut it off.”Roger Corman's Foray into Women in Prison FilmsIn 1971, Roger Corman's New World Pictures sought to capitalize on the success of the women in prison film 99 Women. Working with a low budget, they brought on director Jack Hill who, dissatisfied with the original script, hired Don Spencer to create a new screenplay that would inject more humor into what he considered a preposterous story. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our member bonus Roger Corman series with a conversation about The Big Doll House.Prison Break: Exploring Power, Agency, and ExploitationThe film presents an interesting balance between exploitation elements and female empowerment. While it includes expected genre tropes like mud wrestling and torture scenes, it also subverts expectations by putting men in subservient positions. We discuss how Jack Hill manages to smuggle bigger ideas about institutional corruption and colonial impacts under the guise of spectacle and genre conventions.Behind Bars: Production and PerformancePam Grier and Sid Haig deliver standout performances that elevate the materialThe film's use of humor helps offset some of the more exploitative elementsShot back-to-back with other prison films in the Philippines to maximize efficiencyInteresting character dynamics between the six main prisonersThe film's ending strikes a lighter tone compared to similar genre entriesThroughout our discussion, we explore how The Big Doll House fits into both Corman's broader production approach and Hill's filmography. While Andy prefers the more serious tone found in Women in Cages, Pete finds more value in this film's lighter touch. Despite its exploitation roots, the film manages to deliver entertainment value while sneaking in something of a commentary on power dynamics and institutional corruption. 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 trailerThis 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.

“Not a nick in the blade, I promise you. The butcher was like butter.”The Origin Story Nobody Asked ForAfter the success of the Hannibal Lecter films, producer Dino De Laurentiis wanted to continue the franchise. When author Thomas Harris initially refused to write another story, De Laurentiis threatened to move forward with different writers. This ultimatum led Harris to craft both the novel and screenplay for Peter Webber's 2007 film Hannibal Rising.Serving Up a Dish Best Not Served At AllThe film fundamentally breaks what makes Hannibal Lecter such a compelling character. Instead of the sophisticated, intellectual monster we've come to know, we get a revenge story that transforms him into more of an anti-hero. This origin tale attempts to explain Lecter's cannibalistic tendencies through trauma and nurture rather than nature, which contradicts the essential mystery of his evil. Additionally, the film mishandles the iconic mask by trying to turn what was originally a tool used by law enforcement to control a dangerous killer into a dramatic prop meant to give young Lecter a superhero-like mystique.A Feast of Discussion PointsDirector Peter Webber's attempts at crafting an elegant period piece clash with the revenge thriller elementsGaspard Ulliel's performance, while good, fails to convince as a young version of either Brian Cox or Anthony HopkinsGong Li's talents are wasted in an underdeveloped role as Lady MurasakiThe beautiful cinematography by Ben Davis can't overcome the weak storyUnexpected parallels to superhero origin stories, particularly sharing similarities with Magneto's backstoryDespite its impressive production values and occasional moments of visual brilliance, Hannibal Rising represents the low point of the Hannibal Lecter series. The film's attempt to humanize one of cinema's greatest villains ultimately diminishes what made the character so fascinating in the first place. 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.

“Don’t you understand, Will? You caught me because we’re very much alike.”The Return to Hannibal Lecter's OriginsAfter the box office success of Hannibal in 2001, producer Dino De Laurentiis quickly moved forward with another adaptation of Thomas Harris's work. With Anthony Hopkins agreeing to return one final time as Dr. Hannibal Lecter, they secured Ted Tally to adapt the screenplay and Brett Ratner to direct. The film would serve as both a remake of Michael Mann's Manhunter and a prequel to The Silence of the Lambs. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Hannibal Lecter series with a conversation about Red Dragon.Devouring the Details of This Psychological ThrillerWhile Red Dragon brings together an impressive ensemble cast including Edward Norton, Ralph Fiennes, and Emily Watson, the film struggles to reach the heights of its predecessors. Despite strong performances and Tally's faithful adaptation of Harris's novel, Ratner's direction lacks the artistic flourishes that made both Manhunter and The Silence of the Lambs so memorable. However, the film does provide fascinating insights into Will Graham's relationship with Lecter and offers a deeper exploration of Francis Dolarhyde's psychological transformation.Additional Elements We DiscussThe opening sequence showing Graham's capture of LecterThe film's nice production design and bland cinematographyRatner's safe directorial choices compared to previous directors in the seriesThe expanded role of Lecter compared to ManhunterFiennes's portrayal of Dolarhyde and his relationship with RebaThe changed ending and its closer alignment with Harris's novelA Serviceable Addition to the SeriesWhile Red Dragon may not reach the artistic heights of earlier entries in the series, it delivers a competent thriller that expands the Lecter mythology. Despite strong performances and production values, the film's conventional approach prevents it from becoming truly memorable. 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.

“Bowels in or bowels out?”The Return of Dr. Lecter: A Sequel Ten Years in the MakingWhen Jonathan Demme declined to direct the sequel to The Silence of the Lambs, producers Dino and Martha De Laurentiis began searching for a new director. After David Mamet's initial script was heavily rewritten by Steven Zaillian, Ridley Scott signed on to direct. Though Jodie Foster passed on reprising her role as Clarice Starling, Anthony Hopkins agreed to return as Dr. Lecter, with Julianne Moore stepping in as the new Clarice. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Hannibal Lecter series with a conversation about Hannibal.Serving Up a Fresh Take on a Beloved CharacterThe film attempts to expand Hannibal Lecter from supporting player to lead character, which proves both successful and problematic. While Hopkins delivers another captivating performance, the story struggles to maintain the psychological depth of its predecessor. The controversial change to the book's ending and the treatment of Clarice Starling's character spark considerable debate between us about whether these alterations helped or hurt the final product.Key Ingredients in This Gothic FeastThe Florence sequences featuring Lecter as Dr. Fell provide some of the film's strongest momentsGary Oldman's unrecognizable turn as Mason Verger feels underutilizedHans Zimmer's score effectively enhances the moodThe film's pacing issues and action sequences draw criticismRay Liotta's performance and character arc culminate in one of the more memorable scenesFinal VerdictThough Hannibal successfully grossed over $350 million worldwide, we find it a significant step down from The Silence of the Lambs. While the film has moments of grotesque beauty and maintains Hopkins' magnetic presence as Lecter, the muddled story and uneven pacing ultimately result in a disappointing follow-up. With Pete liking this more than Andy but still struggling largely with the adaptation, we see this as a missed opportunity to further develop these iconic characters. 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.

“Quid pro quo.”The Birth of an Iconic ThrillerAfter the commercial disappointment of Manhunter in 1986, producers Dino and Martha De Laurentiis were hesitant to pursue another adaptation of Thomas Harris's work. However, when The Silence of the Lambs was published in 1988, Gene Hackman initially optioned the rights with intentions to direct and star as Hannibal Lecter. When Hackman dropped out, Jonathan Demme took the helm, casting Jodie Foster as Clarice Starling despite initial resistance from the studio. Join us — Pete Wright and Andy Nelson — as we continue the Hannibal Lecter series with a conversation about The Silence of the Lambs.Serving Up The Silence of the Lambs with Some Fava BeansWe examine how this film elevates the basic structure established in Manhunter to create something more compelling and psychologically complex. The relationship between Clarice Starling and Hannibal Lecter forms the dark heart of the story, with Anthony Hopkins delivering an unforgettable performance in just 24 minutes of screen time. We discuss how Foster's vulnerable yet strong portrayal of Starling adds crucial stakes to every interaction.Deeper Into the Darkness• The film's innovative use of first-person camera angles to create intimacy and discomfort• Jonathan Demme's gothic visual style compared to Michael Mann's industrial aesthetic• Questions about the storage unit subplot and its narrative purpose• The controversial portrayal of Buffalo Bill and transgender representation• The effectiveness of the film's two major misdirect sequences• Ted Levine's haunting performance as Buffalo Bill• The significance of the film winning the "Big Five" Academy AwardsThe Silence of the Lambs remains a masterpiece of psychological horror that transcends its genre roots through outstanding performances and skillful direction. This iconic thriller continues to captivate audiences with its psychological complexity and unforgettable characters. 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 JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxd 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.

“They didn't realize they'd be the slums of the future.”Penelope Spheeris Brings Punk to Roger CormanAfter completing her documentary The Decline of Western Civilization about the LA punk scene, director Penelope Spheeris wanted to tell a narrative story in that world. Roger Corman saw potential in her vision and agreed to match her $250,000 investment to make the film. Spheeris made the unconventional choice to cast real punk musicians and street kids rather than professional actors, believing it would create more authentic performances. Join us — Pete Wright and Andy Nelson — as we continue the member bonus Roger Corman series with a conversation about her 1983 film Suburbia.Living on the Edge of SocietyThe film powerfully depicts alienated youth finding community among fellow outcasts while struggling against societal rejection. Though Corman insisted on including sex or violence every 10 minutes, Spheeris managed to maintain her artistic vision while incorporating these commercial elements. We explore how she achieved this balance and whether it ultimately strengthened or weakened the final product.Key Themes and Production ElementsThe abandoned suburban setting becomes a character itself, reflecting broader issues of American development and social displacement. Spheeris based many plot elements on real stories she encountered while filming her documentary, including the pack of abandoned guard dogs. Her documentary background influences the film's raw, authentic style.Additional Discussion Points:The performances by non-professional actors and whether this approach succeededThe film's portrayal of parents and authority figuresThe parallel between abandoned dogs and abandoned youthThe tragic bookending deaths that open and close the filmHow the film fits within Spheeris' larger body of workCorman's influence on the commercial elementsWe both found Suburbia to be a powerful and emotionally affecting film that transcends its low-budget origins through authenticity and strong thematic resonance. Though it can be difficult to watch at times, it offers valuable perspective on alienated youth and societal rejection that remains relevant today. 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 trailerThis 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 like this one that only members can access. You also get member bonus content on select 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.

“You want to know how he’s choosing them, don’t you?”The Birth of Cinema's Most Infamous CannibalBefore Anthony Hopkins donned the infamous mask as Hannibal Lecter, director Michael Mann brought Thomas Harris's novel Red Dragon to the screen in 1986. Working with a budget of $15 million, Mann cast William Petersen as FBI profiler Will Graham and Brian Cox as the imprisoned Dr. Hannibal Lecktor (spelled differently in this adaptation). Despite Mann's growing reputation after Miami Vice, the studio showed little faith in the project, providing minimal marketing support. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off the Hannibal Lecter series with a conversation about Manhunter.Hunting Down the Elements of Manhunter's LegacyWhile Manhunter initially struggled at the box office, its influence on the psychological thriller genre and subsequent Lecter films cannot be understated. The film's visual style, particularly Dante Spinotti's bold color palette and Mann's precise framing, creates a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the psychological cat-and-mouse game between Graham and Francis Dollarhyde (Tom Noonan). However, we disagree on Noonan's performance, with Andy finding it less compelling while Pete considers it a standout element of the film.Deep Diving into the InvestigationBrian Cox's understated yet menacing portrayal of Lecktor offers a fascinating contrast to later interpretationsThe complex relationship between Dollarhyde and Reba McClane (Joan Allen) adds unexpected emotional depthMann's signature visual style, particularly his use of bold blues and greens, enhances the film's moody atmosphereWilliam Petersen delivers a compelling performance as the psychologically tormented Will GrahamThe film's procedural elements and Graham's investigation methodology feel authentic and engagingMichael Mann's direction emphasizes style, sometimes at the expense of narrative clarityThe final confrontation sequence feels rushed compared to later adaptationsAs the first cinematic adaptation of Thomas Harris's work, Manhunter sets a strong foundation for the Hannibal Lecter series while standing on its own as a compelling psychological thriller. Though we have some disagreements about certain performances, we both appreciate the film's unique visual style and psychological depth. While it may not reach the heights of later entries in the series, it remains an important and entertaining entry in the canon. 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 JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxd 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.