The Next Reel Film Podcast

“You didn't mean it. You never mean it. You didn't mean it the time when you put up the bouquet with the 'get well' card in the funeral parlor, and sent the black lilies to the old lady in the hospital, you didn't mean it.”Roger Corman's 38th Film in 5 YearsThe year was 1960. The American movie landscape was dominated by Westerns, sword-and-sandal epics, and Rock and Roll musicals. But in the underbelly of Hollywood, a different kind of movie was brewing. This was the era of exploitation cinema, and Roger Corman was its undisputed king. With a knack for spotting talent and squeezing every penny out of a budget, Corman churned out low-budget genre films at an astonishing rate. The Little Shop of Horrors was one of them. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off our Member Bonus Roger Corman series with a conversation about his 1960 film The Little Shop of Horrors.Don't Feed the JokesIn this episode, we dig into the fascinating backstory of how The Little Shop of Horrors came to be, a film shot in just two days on a set borrowed from another Corman production, A Bucket of Blood. We marvel at Corman's legendary efficiency and his ability to create entertaining films on a shoestring budget. We also discuss the film's unique blend of horror and comedy, noting how the comedic elements ultimately overshadow the horror, making for a surprisingly funny viewing experience. We analyze the film's sharp, witty dialogue, packed with puns, wordplay, and topical references that would have resonated with audiences in 1960.Other Buds to Snip From This ConversationJack Nicholson's small but memorable roleThe film's connection to the later stage musical and film adaptationThe somewhat effective practical effects used to bring Audrey Jr. to lifeThe film's lasting legacy as a cult classicThe differences between the original ending and the ending of the musicalThe Little Shop of Horrors is a fascinating time capsule of early 1960s filmmaking and a testament to Roger Corman's ingenuity and talent. It's a fun, fast-paced, and surprisingly funny film that holds up remarkably well 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 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 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.

“How can you tell what’s a dream or what’s real when you can’t even tell when you’re awake or when you’re asleep?”Dalton Trumbo's Controversial Anti-War ClassicIn 1971, blacklisted screenwriter Dalton Trumbo adapted his own 1939 anti-war novel Johnny Got His Gun for the big screen. The film marked Trumbo's directorial debut and only feature film as director. Set during World War I, the story follows a young American soldier who becomes a quadruple amputee after being hit by an artillery shell. Trumbo's powerful critique of war and its devastating effects on soldiers resonated strongly in the Vietnam War era. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about Johnny Got His Gun.Locked-In Horror: A Haunting Tale of War's CasualtiesWe dive deep into the film's harrowing portrayal of Joe Bonham, played by Timothy Bottoms, as he struggles with his horrific injuries and loss of autonomy. The movie's exploration of disability rights and the dehumanization of wounded veterans sparks a thoughtful discussion. We examine how Trumbo's adaptation differs from his novel, particularly in its use of flashbacks and dream sequences to break up the claustrophobic hospital scenes. While we appreciate the film's powerful anti-war message, we debate the effectiveness of some of its more surreal elements.Other points of discussion include:• Timothy Bottoms' compelling performance as Joe Bonham• The impact of Jason Robards as Joe's father• Donald Sutherland's portrayal of Christ in dream sequences• The film's bleak ending and its emotional impact• Comparisons to other "locked-in" films like The Diving Bell and the Butterfly• Trumbo's transition from novelist to filmmakerA Thought-Provoking Journey Through War's AftermathJohnny Got His Gun remains a powerful and disturbing examination of war's human cost. While we found some aspects of the film more effective than others, we agree that it's an important work that continues to resonate decades after its release. Its unflinching look at the physical and psychological toll of combat makes it a challenging but worthwhile 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 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 don’t have anything. Never did have anything. Never will have anything.”The Tale of Barbara Loden's Unsung MasterpieceIn the late 1960s, actress Barbara Loden came across a newspaper article about a woman on trial for bank robbery who thanked the judge for her sentence. Perplexed by what could drive a woman to such a point, Loden crafted a story that would become her sole feature film, Wanda. Despite being married to acclaimed director Elia Kazan, Loden struggled to get the film made, eventually scraping together a meager budget and shooting on 16mm. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about Wanda.A Portrait of Aimlessness and Apathy in Rural AmericaOn the surface, Wanda may seem like a bleak and meandering character study, but it's precisely those qualities that make it such a fascinating film. We dive into Loden's raw, cinema verité-style approach to storytelling, which eschews traditional Hollywood structure in favor of a more naturalistic portrayal of its titular character's directionless existence. From her passive acceptance of a divorce that leaves her children in the care of their father to her listless drift into a life of crime with a small-time thief, Wanda's journey is one of quiet desperation and longing for purpose.Throughout our discussion, we grapple with the film's deliberate pacing, sparse cinematography, and lack of a traditional character arc. While Pete finds the film's unrelenting bleakness and Wanda's apparent lack of agency challenging, Andy argues that the film's power lies in its unflinching portrayal of a marginalized woman's experience.Wanda may not be an easy watch, but it remains a powerful and uncompromising portrait of a woman adrift in a world that offers her little in the way of hope or purpose. Barbara Loden's singular vision and commitment to telling an untold story make this a film that demands to be seen and discussed. Despite our differing reactions to the film, we both agree that Wanda is a work of undeniable importance and a testament to Loden's talent as a filmmaker. 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

“Now that you know everything about me, you still love me?”A Twisted Love Story and a Director's Only FilmThe Honeymoon Killers, released in 1970, is a crime drama based on the real-life story of Raymond Fernandez and Martha Beck, the infamous "Lonely Hearts Killers" who murdered as many as 20 women in the 1940s. The film was originally set to be directed by a young Martin Scorsese, but after a start too slow for the budget, the project was handed over to the producer’s friend and roommate Leonard Kastle, a composer and opera director with no prior filmmaking experience. Kastle had written the screenplay and so was asked to also direct the film, which would be his only foray into the world of cinema. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about The Honeymoon Killers.Discussion PointsThe film's low-budget, black-and-white aesthetic and its impact on the overall atmosphereThe sequences directed by Martin Scorsese and how they fit into the larger narrativeThe real-life story of the "Lonely Hearts Killers" and how the film adapts and fictionalizes certain elementsThe film's controversial and provocative marketing campaign, including its sexually charged posterOliver Wood's striking cinematography in his first solo job, particularly the powerful closeups that heighten the film's emotional intensityA Singular Vision Worth RediscoveringDespite its grim subject matter and challenging characters, The Honeymoon Killers remains a fascinating and singular work of cinema, one that showcases Leonard Kastle's unique vision, the fearless performances of its lead actors, and Oliver Wood's evocative cinematography. It's a shame that Kastle never directed another film, as his debut suggests a talent for crafting complex, emotionally charged stories that push the boundaries of conventional Hollywood storytelling. 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 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

“Why can’t anybody hear me?!”The Fascinating Origins of a Classic Horror FilmIn the early 1960s, director Herk Harvey stumbled upon an abandoned amusement park in Salt Lake City, sparking the idea for what would become the classic horror film Carnival of Souls. With a shoestring budget and a cast of mostly unknown actors, Harvey set out to capture the haunting atmosphere of that desolate park. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off the One-and-Done series with a conversation about Harvey's 1962 film Carnival of Souls.Exploring the Liminal Space Between Life and DeathOur discussion of Carnival of Souls delves into the film's unique storytelling approach and its exploration of the space between life and death. We examine how the protagonist, Mary Henry (played by Candace Hilligoss), navigates this liminal space after surviving a tragic car accident, and how her experiences blur the lines between reality and the supernatural.Throughout our conversation, we touch on:The effective use (overuse?) of organ music and striking visual imageryThe ambiguity of certain scenes and their room for interpretationThe film's influence on later horror moviesA Timeless Classic That Continues to CaptivateDespite its low budget and relatively unknown cast, Carnival of Souls has endured as a classic of the horror genre. Its haunting imagery, ambiguous storytelling, and exploration of existential themes continue to captivate audiences decades after its initial release. 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 JustWatchCheck out An Occurence at Owl Creek BridgeScript 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

“I don't believe in magic, Wombat, but a few times in my life, I've seen things. Things I can't explain. And I've come to believe it's not so much what you believe. It's how hard you believe it.”The Final Chapter(?) in the Indiana Jones SagaAfter a 15-year hiatus, the legendary archaeologist Indiana Jones returns for one last adventure in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. Directed by James Mangold, this fifth installment aims to capture the spirit of the original trilogy while bringing the series to a satisfying conclusion. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we wrap up (again) the Indiana Jones series with a conversation about Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.Dialing Up the Nostalgia or Stuck in the Past?In our discussion, we explore the various aspects of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny that worked well and those that may have fallen short. We delve into the film's attempts to recapture the magic of the original trilogy and debate whether the callbacks enhance the experience or make the film feel repetitive. Throughout the episode, we grapple with the question of whether this movie manages to justify its existence as a fitting conclusion to the franchise or if it ultimately feels unnecessary.A Polarizing Send-Off?As we conclude our discussion, it becomes clear that this final installment has sparked a range of reactions among fans and critics alike. Regardless of one's personal opinion, it's evident that the film has generated a lively debate about the legacy of Indiana Jones and the challenges of crafting a fitting end to a beloved 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 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

“It’s a helluva thing, killin’ a man.”A Western Classic RevisitedClint Eastwood's 1992 Western masterpiece, Unforgiven, was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The film, which Eastwood directed and starred in, was a revisionist take on the classic Western genre, exploring themes of violence, redemption, and the myth of the American West. With its complex characters and morally ambiguous storyline, Unforgiven challenged traditional Western tropes and helped revitalize the genre for a new generation of filmgoers. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we conclude our member bonus series looking at the 1993 Academy Award Best Film Editing Nominees with Eastwood’s 1992 film Unforgiven.Exploring the Depths of UnforgivenWe discuss how the film subverts traditional Western archetypes, presenting a more realistic and gritty portrayal of life on the frontier. We also explore the film's themes of violence and redemption, examining how Eastwood's character, William Munny, grapples with his past as a notorious outlaw and his desire to leave that life behind.Throughout the discussion, we highlight several key aspects of Unforgiven that make it a standout entry in the Western genre. We praise Eastwood's direction and performance, as well as the supporting cast, which includes Gene Hackman, Morgan Freeman, and Richard Harris. We also touch on the film's cinematography, which captures the stark beauty of the American West while also conveying a sense of danger and unease.Other Topics CoveredThe film's commentary on the mythologizing of the American WestThe moral ambiguity of the characters and their actionsThe role of women in the Western genreThe film's place within Eastwood's larger body of work as a director and actorA Western for the AgesUltimately, we conclude that Unforgiven is a masterful example of the Western genre and a film that continues to resonate with audiences over three decades after its release. Through its nuanced exploration of complex themes and its subversion of traditional Western tropes, Unforgiven stands as a testament to Eastwood's skill as a filmmaker and his enduring legacy in American cinema. 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 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.

“Can we talk about something other than Hollywood for a change?”Robert Altman's The Player is a satirical dark comedy that takes a sharp look at the inner workings of Hollywood and the movie industry. The film was nominated for Best Film Editing at the 1993 Academy Awards, competing against Basic Instinct, The Crying Game, A Few Good Men, and the winner Unforgiven. The Player marked Altman's return to the spotlight after a string of critical and commercial disappointments in the 1980s.Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the member bonus 1993 Academy Awards Best Film Editing Nominees series with a conversation about The Player.This 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 member bonus content in extended episodes, access to members-only Discord channels, access to watch episodes live when we record and comment along with it, 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.Film SundriesWatch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxd

“We’re all useless alone. It’s a good thing you’re not alone.”Everything Everywhere All at Once is a unique and ambitious film that defies genre conventions. Directed by the Daniels (Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert), the film was born out of their desire to create something that would explore the multiverse concept in a fresh and exciting way. With an all-star cast led by Michelle Yeoh, the Daniels set out to craft a story that would not only entertain but also provoke thought and emotion. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 2023 DGA Awards Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Theatrical Feature Film Nominees series with a conversation about Everything Everywhere All at Once.A Mind-Bending Journey Through the MultiverseIn our discussion, we delve into the film's exploration of the multiverse concept and how it uses this premise to tell a deeply personal story about a mother-daughter relationship and a husband-wife relationship (and a daughter-father relationship). We examine how the Daniels masterfully weave together multiple genres, from science fiction to martial arts to comedy, creating a unique and engaging viewing experience. Additionally, we analyze how the film's inventive use of aspect ratios and visual effects enhances the narrative and immerses the audience in the various universes.Other Topics CoveredThe stellar performances by the cast, particularly Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy QuanThe film's exploration of themes such as family, identity, and the choices we makeThe Daniels' distinctive directorial style and how it elevates the materialThe emotional resonance of the story and its ability to connect with audiencesWhy Everything Everywhere All at Once is a Must-See FilmEverything Everywhere All at Once is a film that pushes the boundaries of storytelling and filmmaking. It is a testament to the Daniels' creativity and vision, as well as the incredible talent of the cast and crew. Despite its complex narrative and unconventional structure, the film remains accessible and emotionally engaging, thanks to its relatable characters and universal themes. We thoroughly enjoyed discussing this unique and thought-provoking film, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh and exciting cinematic 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 this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places 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

“It’s not the plane, sir. It’s the pilot.”The Long Road to Top Gun: MaverickThe original Top Gun was a massive success in 1986, but it took over 30 years for a sequel to finally take flight. Development on Top Gun: Maverick began in 2010 when Paramount Pictures approached producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Tony Scott about a sequel. Unfortunately, the project was put on hold after Scott's death in 2012. The studio eventually moved forward with the sequel in 2017, with Joseph Kosinski taking the helm and Tom Cruise reprising his iconic role as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 2023 DGA Awards Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Theatrical Feature Film Nominees series with a conversation about Top Gun: Maverick.Feeling the Need for Speed in Top Gun: MaverickIn our discussion of Top Gun: Maverick, we dive into the film's thrilling action sequences and how they compare to the original. We also explore the movie's themes of legacy, aging, and the changing nature of warfare. Additionally, we examine how the sequel handles the absence of key characters from the first film and introduces new ones.Other Discussion PointsThe film's impressive practical effects and minimal use of CGITom Cruise's commitment to the team actually flyingThe emotional weight of Maverick's relationship with Rooster, Goose's sonJennifer Connelly's strong performance as Penny BenjaminThe movie's nostalgic callbacks to the original Top GunWhy Top Gun: Maverick SoarsTop Gun: Maverick is a rare sequel that manages to capture the spirit of the original while updating it for a new generation. The film's stunning aerial sequences, coupled with its exploration of complex themes and character relationships, make it a worthy addition to the Top Gun legacy. While the movie may lean heavily on nostalgia at times, it still manages to stand on its own as an entertaining and emotionally resonant blockbuster. 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 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