The Next Reel Film Podcast

“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 MaterialSupport 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

“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 MaterialLetterboxdSupport 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

“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 MaterialLetterboxdSupport 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

“I saw you on TV. I love you!”A Reality TV Satire Takes on The Most Dangerous GameBefore The Hunger Games and the reality TV boom of the 2000s, writer-director Daniel Minahan conceived Series 7: The Contenders as a TV show in the mid-90s. After networks passed on the concept, he developed it into a feature film that would serve as a prescient satire of reality television and American gun culture. With a small budget and shooting on digital video to authentically capture the TV aesthetic of the era, Minahan crafted his dark vision of an alternate present where random citizens are forced to kill each other for entertainment. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we wrap up the People Hunting People series with a conversation about Series 7: The Contenders.The Game Show Where Survival is Not OptionalThis reality TV satire follows Dawn (Brooke Smith), a pregnant returning champion who must face off against five new contestants in a government-sanctioned show where ordinary citizens are selected by lottery to kill each other. The film's commitment to never breaking its reality TV frame, from commercial breaks to behind-the-scenes footage, creates an eerily believable world that feels increasingly less satirical and more prophetic with each passing year.Like any good reality show, the producers manipulate situations to create compelling narratives. The "random" selection of contestants conveniently includes Jeff, Dawn's former high school friend and romantic interest, leading to an emotional subplot complete with a nostalgic music video they made together. This attention to creating drama through personal connections and backstories mirrors actual reality TV production techniques, making the deadly premise feel disturbingly plausible.Production Choices and Performance HighlightsThe authentic digital video cinematography perfectly captures the TV aesthetic of the eraBrooke Smith delivers a compelling performance as the pregnant returning championWill Arnett's narration adds the perfect reality TV toneThe integration of surveillance footage and multiple camera perspectives enhances the realismStrong supporting performances, particularly from Merritt Weaver as the youngest contestantThe film's dark humor effectively balances entertainment with social commentaryWhile box office numbers were modest, Series 7: The Contenders has developed a cult following for its ahead-of-its-time commentary on reality television and violence as entertainment. The film's examination of how media packaging can normalize extreme behavior remains relevant today, perhaps even more so than when it was released. 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 Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchTheatrical trailerLetterboxdSupport 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

“Never underestimate a man who’s got nothing to lose.”The Most Dangerous Game Gets a 90s Action MakeoverIn 1994, director Ernest R. Dickerson took on his second feature film following his directorial debut with Juice. After years as Spike Lee's cinematographer, Dickerson was ready to tackle this action-thriller starring Ice-T as a homeless man hunted by wealthy thrill-seekers. The film drew inspiration from the 1924 short story "The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell, updating it with a contemporary urban twist and social commentary. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the People Hunting People series with a conversation about Surviving the Game.Hunting Down What Makes This Film TickThe film assembles an impressive ensemble cast including Rutger Hauer, Charles S. Dutton, Gary Busey, F. Murray Abraham, and John C. McGinley. While Ice-T delivers a solid performance as Mason, the homeless man targeted for sport, it's the eccentric hunters who steal the show. Furthermore, the film explores themes of class divide and entitlement through its intense cat-and-mouse premise, though some logical gaps in the hunters' abilities occasionally strain credibility.Deep Diving into the Woods and CharactersGary Busey's dinner table monologue about training and killing his dog stands as the memorable highlightDickerson's direction shows his cinematographer's eye, particularly in a Blade Runner-inspired shot of Rutger HauerStuart Copeland's score starts strong but becomes less effective as the film progresses... at least per AndyThe film's Pacific Northwest setting (actually shot in Washington, not Oregon as stated) provides a compelling backdropCharles S. Dutton's casting as a seemingly benevolent shelter worker who reveals darker motives works particularly wellThe film oddly uses Philadelphia stock footage to represent Seattle in the finaleThe Trophy Room VerdictDespite some narrative shortcomings and questionable hunter competency, Surviving the Game delivers exactly what you'd want from a 90s action thriller. The stellar cast elevates the material beyond its B-movie roots, while the social commentary adds welcome depth to the hunt. Both hosts thoroughly enjoyed this bonkers entry in the People Hunting People series. 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 MaterialLetterboxdGary Busey and Gailard Sartain, Coach Chuck Sketch, Tulsa OK '74Support 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

“What I needed was not a new weapon, but a new animal.”Setting the Stage for the Ultimate HuntIn 1932, RKO Pictures produced The Most Dangerous Game while simultaneously building elaborate jungle sets for their upcoming production of King Kong. Based on Richard Connell's 1924 short story, the film became one of the earliest to explore the concept of humans hunting humans. Using the same jungle sets and several cast members who would later appear in King Kong, including Fay Wray, directors Irving Pichel and Ernest B. Schoedsack crafted this taut 63-minute thriller on a modest budget. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off the People Hunting People series with this 1932 film The Most Dangerous Game.Pre-Code Thrills and Dark PsychologyThe film's pre-Code status allowed for surprisingly graphic content, including human heads displayed in jars and mounted on walls. Originally, even more shocking footage was shot, including fully stuffed human corpses positioned in death poses, though these scenes were ultimately cut. As Bob Rainsford and Eve Trowbridge run through the jungle, their clothing becomes increasingly torn and revealing – another pre-Code element that wouldn't have made it past censors a few years later.The film's exploration of hunting humans as sport raises intriguing questions about civilization versus savagery. Count Zaroff's twisted philosophy about hunting humans being the ultimate game creates a compelling narrative that examines humanity's darker impulses. Leslie Banks delivers a memorably sinister performance as Zaroff, using his real-life facial paralysis to enhance his character's menacing presence.Points of DiscussionThe innovative cinematography, including POV shots through the jungleMax Steiner's adventurous score that becomes diegetic when played on pianoThe film's efficient use of its brief 63-minute runtimeIts enduring influence on the "humans hunting humans" subgenreThe rapid development of the central romanceThis lean, atmospheric thriller maintains its impact even after 90 years. While some elements feel dated, The Most Dangerous Game effectively establishes many tropes that would define the "hunting humans" subgenre. We found much to admire in this tightly-crafted adventure, particularly its exploration of humanity's capacity for both civilization and savagery. 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 JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal Material and on AudibleLetterboxdSupport 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 all have our devils, my dear.”Roger Corman's Exploitation Era in the PhilippinesIn the early 1970s, Roger Corman discovered he could stretch his production dollars further by filming in the Philippines. He partnered with established Filipino director Gerardo de Leon, known for his award-winning films and work in the Filipino film industry since 1938. Despite de Leon's prestigious background, Corman convinced him to direct Women in Cages, though de Leon would later distance himself from exploitation films. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our member bonus Roger Corman series with a conversation about Women in Cages.Breaking Free from Prison Film ConventionsPete and Andy engage in a spirited debate about the merits of Women in Cages, with Andy finding more depth than expected while Pete struggles with its exploitation elements. The film follows Jeff, a naive American woman framed by her drug-dealing boyfriend and imprisoned in a corrupt facility run by a sadistic guard played by Pam Grier. Through their discussion, they explore how the film attempts to balance serious themes with exploitation requirements.Deeper Themes Behind Prison BarsStrong performance by Pam Grier as Alabama, the complex and ruthless prison guardExamination of power dynamics and corruption within the prison system, though Pete questions if these themes truly landControversial portrayal of violence and nudity that divides our hostsNoteworthy ending that leaves a lasting impact about women trapped in cycles of abuseDiscussion of de Leon's reluctant participation in exploitation cinemaAnalysis of how the film handles themes of sexual exploitation and systemic corruptionClassic Corman cost-cutting: Film set in a Spanish-speaking country but shot in the PhilippinesWhile Pete finds the film's exploitation elements overwhelming, distracting, and worst of all—boring, Andy appreciates its attempts to tackle deeper themes about women trapped in various forms of imprisonment. Whether viewing it as pure exploitation or something more substantial, Women in Cages represents an interesting chapter in Corman's production history and de Leon's career. 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 JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerLetterboxdThis 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 content, 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 can make the world swear King Kong is ten stories tall and Mary Pickford a virgin at 40, yet you can’t convince starving voters that a turncoat socialist is a menace to everything California holds dear? You’re barely trying.”David Fincher's Personal Connection to Old HollywoodAfter decades of development, David Fincher finally brought his late father Jack Fincher's screenplay about Herman J. Mankiewicz to life. Originally planned for production in the late 1990s with Kevin Spacey and Jodie Foster attached, the project stalled when studios balked at Fincher's insistence on shooting in black and white. Following Jack Fincher's death in 2003, David continued developing the script, eventually partnering with Netflix who gave him creative freedom to realize his father's vision. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we return to our David Fincher series with a conversation about Mank.Writing History Through a Modern LensIn discussing Mank, we explore how Fincher approaches the controversial story of who really wrote Citizen Kane, while examining the film's portrayal of 1930s Hollywood politics through a contemporary perspective. We debate the historical accuracy of certain story elements and character portrayals, particularly regarding Herman Mankiewicz's political leanings and relationship with William Randolph Hearst.Behind the Scenes of Old HollywoodThe film raises interesting questions about the balance between historical accuracy and dramatic storytelling. While some criticize the film's creative liberties with Mankiewicz's political views and relationships, we discuss whether these changes serve a greater purpose in crafting a compelling narrative. This leads to a broader conversation about the responsibilities filmmakers have when telling true stories and whether artistic license can be justified in service of a larger truth.Key Discussion PointsOldman's compelling performance as Mankiewicz... without prostheticsThe technical achievements in recreating the period look using modern digital toolsAmanda Seyfried's standout portrayal of Marion DaviesTrent Reznor and Atticus Ross's period-appropriate score recorded remotely during COVIDThe film's exploration of fake news and media manipulation then and nowCrafting a Modern ClassicWhile not ranking among Fincher's most dynamic works as far as we’re concerned, Mank succeeds as both a love letter to classic Hollywood and a thoughtful examination of the creative process. Despite some historical liberties, the film's technical excellence and strong performances make it a worthy addition to Fincher's filmography. 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 SundriesCheck out these other Mank-adjacent conversations in The Next Reel’s family of podcasts:Movies We Like: Cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt on ChinatownThe Film Board: Erik Messerschmidt joins Justin Jaeger and Tommy Metz III for a Conversation on The KillerThe Film Board: MankFind places to watch this at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

“You must start thinking of the spiral, the spiral that’s coming into your head.”An Overlooked Horror GemIn 1987, Spanish filmmaker Bigas Luna ventured into the horror genre with an innovative approach to storytelling. Working with a budget of $2 million, Luna crafted a unique narrative that would blend psychological horror with commentary on cinema itself. Despite its limited theatrical release and modest box office returns (to be generous), the film would go on to win several awards and be nominated for others. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we wrap up this return to the 'Spoiled. Rotten? Twist Endings' series with a conversation about Luna’s 1987 film Anguish.Eyes Wide Open for This Horror ExperienceThe film follows John Pressman (Michael Lerner), a troubled ophthalmologist's orderly whose overbearing mother (Zelda Rubinstein) exercises an unusual amount of control over his life. As their story unfolds, Luna takes viewers on an unexpected journey that challenges conventional horror storytelling.A Deeper Look into Cinema's Dark cornersWe discuss how the film's unique approach to storytelling enhances rather than diminishes its impact. While we initially found the first act somewhat challenging, we agree that the film's revelations make these early moments more meaningful in retrospect. We particularly praise Michael Lerner's performance and Zelda Rubinstein's uniquely unsettling presence.Key Elements of Discussion:The effective use of sound design and visual elements to create a hypnotic atmosphereThe film's commentary on cinema and audience experienceThe innovative approach to horror storytellingThe challenges of distribution and accessibility in modern timesThe potential impact of a modern remakeThe film's lasting influence on horror cinemaAnguish proves itself to be a fascinating and innovative piece of horror cinema that deserves wider recognition. Despite its limited availability, this hypnotic and unsettling film rewards viewers with its creative storytelling and memorable performances. 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 JustWatchTheatrical trailerLetterboxdSupport 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