

Unspooled
Paul Scheer & Amy Nicholson | Realm
Each week actor & comedian Paul Scheer (Black Monday, The League) and film critic Amy Nicholson (LA Times Chief Film Critic ) watch and discuss the best movies out there. From the classics to new releases and every indie film in-between. Along the way, they’ll dissect iconic scenes, spotlight their favorite characters, and decide if these movies still stand the test of time.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 1min
10 Things I Hate About You
Celebrate Valentine's with a deep dive into a beloved 1999 teen classic. Find out how Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew' became '10 Things I Hate About You.' Discover the film's cultural impact, complex relationships, and the evolution of female characters in rom-coms. The hosts reflect on themes of vulnerability, authenticity, and personal growth while reminiscing about nostalgia in adaptations. Plus, there's a humorous take on tax returns and a nod to a new TV adaptation inspired by this iconic film.

Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 14min
Captain Condor
Paul & Amy are finally jumping into the Marvel universe with 2014 film, Captain America Winter Soldier! But it wouldn't be Unspooled if they didn't do it their way, by combining this conversation with the 1975 film, Three Days of the Condor. They discuss the Captain America's Condor origins, the purpose of the superhero film 2025, and, of course, that shield. Plus: they get into Hydra and it's impact on the Marvel Universe.You can rent Captain America and Three Days of the Condor on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy!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.Start your hair growth journey with Nutrafol. Get $10 off your first month's subscription when you go to Nutrafol.com and use the promo code UNSPOOLED Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 4min
WALL-E
Paul & Amy are continuing their dusty future saga this week with 2008 film, WALL E! They discuss how the film's future seems frighteningly possible, the blob-like character designs that didn't make the final cut, and (once again) the power of love. Plus: they get into that famous Pixar lunch that resulted in three of their biggest hits... and Trash Planet.You can rent WALL E on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy!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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 23, 2025 • 1h 14min
The Social Network
Paul & Amy are in the zone this week for 2010 film, The Social Network! They discuss how the film holds up in 2025, how many times they show that opening bar scene, and why everyone is talking so quickly. Plus: they get into the very powerful desire of wanting to be cool.You can rent The Social Network on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy!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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 13min
Interstellar
Paul & Amy are holding space this week for 2014 fan favorite Christopher Nolan film, Interstellar! They discuss the films parallels with Nolan’s family life, the “real” science used to create stunning visual effects, and Hans Zimmer’s very stressful score. Plus: they get into the films big Matt Damon shaped twist.You can rent Interstellar 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/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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 2, 2025 • 1h 18min
Die Hard (Re-Release)
Dive into the cultural significance of 'Die Hard' as a Christmas movie and its legacy in the action genre. Discover the intriguing casting doubts around Bruce Willis and the film's unique storytelling elements. Unpack the dynamic tension between John McClane and Hans Gruber, alongside the impact of the iconic phrase 'Yippee-ki-yay.' Explore themes of marriage and gender through Holly and John's relationship, plus the fascinating connection to Frank Sinatra's past roles. The discussion wraps up with a deeper look at the film's lasting influence on cinema.

Dec 26, 2024 • 1h 42min
Home Alone (Re-Release)
Dive into the playful chaos of a holiday classic with discussions about its unforgettable characters. John Candy gets rave reviews, while Joe Pesci's on-set antics steal the spotlight. The complexity of Kevin's character raises eyebrows as the hosts debate his moral compass. Nostalgia hits hard as they reflect on the film's cultural impact and evolution of holiday travel. From behind-the-scenes challenges to Uncle Frank's villainy, this conversation captures why 'Home Alone' continues to resonate across generations.

Dec 19, 2024 • 1h 15min
Eyes Wide Shut
The discussion dives deep into the making of Stanley Kubrick's erotic thriller Eyes Wide Shut, highlighting the intense shooting challenges and their effects on Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman's marriage. The hosts analyze the film’s complex themes, such as emotional disconnect and power dynamics in relationships, and explore character depth through poignant interactions. They also critique Kubrick's unique directorial methods and the impact of celebrity status on acting recognition, revealing insights into the nature of wealth and personal identity.

Dec 12, 2024 • 1h 20min
Magnolia
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.

4 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 1h 17min
The Big Lebowski
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.


