Dive into the intricate world of 'Magnolia' as the hosts dissect its sprawling narrative and the unique creative freedoms of director Paul Thomas Anderson. They explore profound themes of love, fatherhood, and the impact of parental neglect, reflecting on Tom Cruise's powerful performance. The chaotic yet enlightening moments, like the metaphorical rain of frogs, illustrate life's unpredictability. Personal anecdotes and stylistic choices enrich the discussion, revealing layers of identity and emotional connection in this cinematic tapestry.

Sam Elliott, the iconic actor known for lending his voice to 'The Big Lebowski,' joins the discussion. They dive into the film's cult classic status and the philosophical themes behind 'The Dude.' The conversation explores the absurdities of character relationships, particularly Walter and Donnie, while reflecting on modern life's complexities. Elliott shares personal anecdotes, capturing the film's lasting influence and the storytelling magic of Los Angeles cinema. It's a nostalgic celebration of the Coen brothers' masterpiece.

(Originally released on May 30th, 2018) Close your eyes, tap your heels together three times, and join Paul & Amy as they discuss 1939’s The Wizard Of Oz! Discover what makes the land of Oz so satisfyingly tactile, how the Tin Man and Cowardly Lion tormented each other on set, and whether this is the most influential film of all time. Plus: Paul & Amy talk to Walter Krueger, who owns one of the world’s biggest collections of Oz memorabilia. Next week the pod will really tie the room together as we cover the 1998 crime comedy classic The Big Lebowski! You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6 Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/ Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheer Episodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/ Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Get access to all the podcasts you love, music channels and radio shows with the SiriusXM App! Get 3 months free using this show link: https://siriusxm.com/unspooled.

This week Paul & Amy break down the 2000 action/adventure blockbuster Gladiator starring Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen & Richard Harris. They talk about reviving the sword & sandals genre, the ever evolving script, how relevant it is to today and more. You can rent Gladiator on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Hoopla and Kanopy! You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6 Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/ Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheer Episodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/ Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Get access to all the podcasts you love, music channels and radio shows with the SiriusXM App! Get 3 months free using this show link: https://siriusxm.com/unspooled.

This week Paul & Amy break down the  1989 dark comedy classic Heathers starring Winona Ryder, Christian Slater and Shannen Doherty. They talk about how it subverts the high school comedy genre, how relevant it is today and more.  Next week you WILL be entertained as we cover Gladiator! You can rent Heathers on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Hoopla and Kanopy! You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6 Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/ Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheer Episodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/ Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Get access to all the podcasts you love, music channels and radio shows with the SiriusXM App! Get 3 months free using this show link: https://siriusxm.com/unspooled.

This week Paul & Amy are re-releasing their episode on the Alexander Payne film, Election. They praise director Alexander Payne’s brilliant eye for humanist detail, discuss how Matthew Broderick channels his Ferris Bueller image to subversive ends, and posit that America has only become more like high school since the movie’s release. Plus: How Election almost derailed Reese Witherspoon’s career. They'll be back with an all new episode next week about Heathers! You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheerEpisodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/ Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Get access to all the podcasts you love, music channels and radio shows with the SiriusXM App! Get 3 months free using this show link: https://siriusxm.com/unspooled.

Dive into the dark world of the 1995 thriller 'Seven,' where the hosts explore its innovative take on the cop genre. Discover the tumultuous journey of its script, with twelve drafts shaping its final form. They dissect powerful performances, especially Gwyneth Paltrow's, and discuss how the film serves as a cultural commentary on sin and morality. The transformative visual style and the profound character dynamics showcase not just a story but a significant shift in cinematic storytelling that left a lasting legacy.

In this discussion, Alison Foreman, a horror film aficionado and writer for IndieWire, dives into the chilling highlights of 2024's horror lineup, including 'Smile 2' and 'Longlegs.' She passionately promotes Art the Clown from 'Terrifier' and how recognizable actors like Cage and Hawke shape audience fears. The hosts reflect on the emotional ties viewers have with horror, explore how social media influences character development, and celebrate the unique blend of humor and horror in films like 'Speak No Evil.' It's a thrilling ride for horror lovers!

Celebrating 30 years of a cinematic masterpiece, the hosts dive into the revolutionary storytelling of the film and its iconic non-linear structure. They discuss the delicate balance of humor and tragedy within its character dynamics, particularly spotlighting the unforgettable relationships portrayed. Nostalgic reflections on settings like Jackrabbit Slim's are highlighted, alongside the significance of memorable dance scenes. Tarantino's evolution and the film’s controversial reception at Cannes are explored, underscoring its lasting impact on cinema.

Delve into the intriguing parallels between 'Taxi Driver' and 'Joker' as they explore themes of mental illness and societal struggles. Analyze the contrasting receptions of these films and their impact on superhero cinema. Discover the director's unique approach to visual storytelling, emphasizing emotional depth. Critique the legacy and moral questions raised by 'Joker', comparing it to classic narratives while unpacking the complexities of violence in film. Engage with deeper interpretations beyond surface-level controversies.