
Unspooled
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.
Latest episodes

4 snips
Dec 7, 2023 • 1h 23min
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
Amy & Paul discuss the unusual casting of Michael Cera in Scott Pilgrim, the evolution of Scott's character, the complexities of relationships, and the unique style and imagery of the film. They explore the character of Ramona, analyze the visual aesthetics, and share dark theories about the movie. Plus, a teaser for the next episode on The Emperor's New Groove.

Nov 30, 2023 • 1h 4min
Concert Films
Amy & Paul discuss what makes a great concert film, highlighting Taylor Swift's 'The Eras Tour' and Talking Heads' 'Stop Making Sense.' They explore the cultural importance, choreography, and unique performances in concert films, as well as the challenges of turning music albums into musicals. The hosts also share their favorite looks and concert experiences, and mention upcoming topics and podcast sponsors.

Nov 23, 2023 • 1h 25min
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
The hosts explore the cultural impact of 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' and the complexity of the character Ferris. They discuss the relationships between the director and actors, compare the movie to 'Election', and analyze the character of Cameron. They delve into the German parade scene and discuss John Hughes' impact. Next, they talk about concert movies and promote the podcast.

Nov 16, 2023 • 1h 20min
The Hunger Games
Amy & Paul volunteer as tribute for 2012’s young adult dystopian saga The Hunger Games! They compare the young Jennifer Lawrence to her character Katniss, trace a theme of idealism vs cynicism through director Gary Ross’s filmography, and marvel at Peeta’s rock face. Plus: Should the main characters have been hungrier? Next week, Paul and Amy are watching Ferris Bueller’s Day Off! You can join the conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6 Check out this week's spotlight episode from the archives, Platoon: https://www.earwolf.com/episode/platoon/ Learn more about the show at unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts.
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Nov 9, 2023 • 1h 27min
Fight Club
This podcast episode of 'Unspooled' analyzes David Fincher's film 'Fight Club' and its themes of masculinity, consumerism, and conformity. They discuss the twist in the movie, the uncetainty of the future, online communication, perspectives on death and aging, filmmaker's techniques, societal conformity, and the underlying message. They also explore the advertising strategy for the film and briefly discuss Keanu Reeves and upcoming episode plans.

5 snips
Nov 2, 2023 • 1h 21min
Election
The hosts of 'Unspooled' discuss the acidic high-school satire 'Election', praising director Alexander Payne's eye for detail, Matthew Broderick's subversive performance, and the movie's reflections on American society. They explore the characters of Tracy Flick and Mr. McAllister, analyze gender and success in the film, and delve into the challenges women face in public roles. The podcast also touches on competition, judgment, and human behavior, while expressing gratitude and discussing future plans.

Oct 26, 2023 • 1h 11min
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
The hosts discuss the cult musical sensation The Rocky Horror Picture Show and what makes a movie camp. They reflect on the cultural shift and appreciate the details of the film. They explore the scene and campiness of the movie, its cultural context, and its elements of melodrama. They discuss the appeal and interpretation of the film and tease future episodes and film choices.

Oct 19, 2023 • 1h 23min
The Wolf Of Wall Street
Guests Leonardo DiCaprio and Martin Scorsese join in discussing the funding and freedom of The Wolf Of Wall Street, DiCaprio's performance, and the approval of Scorsese. Topics also include animal symbolism, lack of obstacles, lack of introspection, comparing with American Psycho, analyzing performances and Oscar snubs, comedic conversations, perspectives on marriage, workplace dynamics, and upcoming episodes.

Oct 12, 2023 • 1h 29min
Hairspray
Paul & Amy spritz on John Waters’ subversive 1988 comedy Hairspray! They learn how star ensemble player Divine was like Godzilla, compare the soundtrack to the 2007 Broadway production, and marvel at how this PG film snuck radical ideas about race, gender and body positivity into the mainstream. Plus: The curious legacy of Pia Zadora. Next week, Paul and Amy are watching The Wolf Of Wall Street! You can join the conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6. Check out this week's spotlight episode from the archives, Grease: https://www.earwolf.com/episode/grease/ Learn more about the show at unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts.
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Oct 5, 2023 • 1h 20min
Saw
Paul & Amy slice into 2004’s nasty low-budget horror Saw! They learn why Cary Elwes holds a grudge against the filmmakers, appreciate how much dread Leigh Whannell and James Wan were able to wring out of simple production design choices, and meditate on the term ‘torture porn’ and what audiences get out of films like these. Plus: Why was Danny Glover in a Pilates infomercial? Next week, Paul and Amy are watching Hairspray! You can join the conversation for this series on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6. Learn more about the show at unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts.
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