Unspooled

Paul Scheer & Amy Nicholson | Realm
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Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 14min

Dead Poets Society

Paul and Amy reopen the pages of Dead Poets Society, chatting about Robin Williams' shocking shift to dramatic acting, characters cut from the film, and the film's lasting legacy in the years since its release. 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-scheer Check 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 13min

Minority Report

Dive into the futuristic world of a 2002 sci-fi classic as the hosts explore Tom Cruise's gripping performance and Spielberg's visionary direction. The conversation navigates technology's impact on society, from AI influences to surveillance issues. They examine thoughtful themes of free will versus fate and the film's gritty realism. With insights on visual design, memorable action scenes, and character dynamics, this discussion reveals the layers of a film that continues to resonate in today's world.
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Sep 29, 2025 • 41min

One Battle After Another

VIVA LA REVOLUTION! Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest film, One Battle After Another, reenergizes the revolutionary spirit. In this special episode, Paul and Amy dive into PTA's biting critique of America, and how his vision - and an extraordinary cast - bring it all to life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 10min

Dog Day Afternoon

Paul and Amy head to the streets of Brooklyn to discuss Dog Day Afternoon. They talk about how Sidney Lumet turned a botched heist into a cinematic event, Al Pacino's killer performance, and how culturally relevant the film and its themes still are today. 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-scheer Check 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 14min

Spinal Tap

Paul and Amy turn the dial up to eleven as they revisit 1984's Spinal Tap. They laugh through their favorite bits, explore Rob Reiner’s ambitious leap from sitcom actor to acclaimed director, and unpack how the film redefined and reshaped the very genre it set out to parody. 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-scheer Check 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Sep 17, 2025 • 23min

Celebrating Robert Redford

In this special midweek episode, Paul and Amy pay tribute to the late great Robert Redford. They take a look back on the first Redford films that made an impression on them, celebrate his career highlights both in front of and behind the camera, and reflect on how he always remembered to embrace the weird. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 16min

Clue

Join Paul, Chris, and Lizzie as they dive into the quirky world of 'Clue,' celebrating its comedic brilliance and cult status. They unravel the film's chaotic production, the challenges of blending British and American humor, and the unforgettable performances that make it a timeless classic. The trio dissects the film's unique storytelling, particularly its multiple endings, while reflecting on its journey from box office disappointment to beloved icon. Expect nostalgic banter and a lively analysis of how it has influenced modern mystery comedies!
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Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 16min

The Breakfast Club

The hosts celebrate the 40th anniversary of a teen classic, reflecting on its cultural impact and personal high school memories. They dive into the complex relationships between characters, questioning the dynamics of Claire and Bender's attraction. The discussion explores the film's themes of individuality versus conformity while revealing deeper societal implications. They also critique character representations and broaden the conversation to encompass nostalgia and emotional struggles present in John Hughes' work.
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Aug 28, 2025 • 1h 5min

Memento

Dive into the intriguing world of memory and identity with a discussion about 'Memento.' Uncover the complexities of trust and perception as the film challenges what we believe about our pasts. The hosts explore how personal experiences influence storytelling, and they analyze the intricate motivations behind the characters. With humor interwoven throughout, they reflect on the impact of altruism and guilt in both film and life, while celebrating the cinematic achievements that have shaped modern narratives.
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Aug 21, 2025 • 1h 11min

Donnie Darko

Dive into the mind-bending universe of a cult classic as the hosts tackle its captivating themes. They explore twisted timelines and the film's reflection on mental health during adolescence. Insights into societal challenges and grief add depth to their discussion. The conversation also highlights the complex dynamics between parents and teens, alongside the significance of iconic characters. Expect engaging anecdotes and spirited debates that invite varied interpretations while resonating with contemporary issues.

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