Blank Check with Griffin & David

Leslye Headland, a talented writer-director and playwright, joins the discussion to dive deep into No Country for Old Men. The conversation explores Anton Chigurh's menacing physicality and the philosophical implications of his coin toss. Leslye shares her emotional connection to dark cinema, and the group examines the film’s unusual structure and its chilling absence of a traditional score. The Coen brothers' faithful adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's novel is also scrutinized, highlighting the cinematic choices that amplify the narrative's dread.

Connor Ratliff, an actor and podcaster known for creating 'Dead Eyes,' dives into the quirky world of Tom Hanks and the Coen Brothers' 'The Ladykillers.' They discuss Hanks' transformative 'Weird Hanks' phase and how this film marks the end of his box-office success. Ratliff also introduces the term 'mooseporting,' a concept for reassessing flops, sparking conversations about the film's controversial humor and its impactful performances. Get ready for a blend of insights, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia!

In this entertaining dialogue, guest Katey Rich, a film critic and writer from Vanity Fair, dives into the quirks of 'Intolerable Cruelty,' featuring Clooney and Zeta-Jones at their prime. They unravel why the film flopped, debating if it was too mean or simply overshadowed by Clooney's dazzling smile. The discussion flits from Clooney's directorial missteps to memorable performances by Richard Jenkins, alongside a humorous exploration of Hollywood's evolving comedic landscape. Expect laughs along with a few surprising insights!

Join writer and film critic Jordan Hoffman as he dives into the mysteries of 'The Man Who Wasn't There.' He shares theories about its themes of alienation, communication struggles, and the complexities of identity. Expect a humorous twist as Jordan suggests Beethoven's later life struggles could even reflect the film’s emotional depth. The conversation blends personal anecdotes with critiques of film narratives, exploring how societal expectations shape cinematic characters, all wrapped in witty banter and engaging insights!

Emily St. James, a writer on 'Yellowjackets' and author of 'Woodwork,' dives into the quirks of 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?'. She highlights the film's soundtrack, which overshadowed its cinematic strengths, and discusses George Clooney's unique career trajectory. The conversation meanders from absurdities in gourmet dining to exploring profound themes of race in music. Additionally, they touch on the evolution of filmmaking techniques and how nostalgic television shows shaped pop culture today, making this chat a delightful mix of humor and insight.

Joining the conversation is Seth Rogen, an actor, writer, and director known for his comedic hits like Superbad and Pineapple Express. They delve into the stoner classic The Big Lebowski, dissecting its cultural impact, memorable characters, and the Coen brothers' unique storytelling. Rogen shares personal anecdotes about the film’s influence on his own work and discusses the quirky dynamics between characters. The lighthearted banter continues with humorous reflections on iconic scenes and drinks, making for a delightful exploration of this beloved cult classic.

Zach Cregger, the director of 'Barbarian' and 'Weapons,' joins to dissect the Coen Brothers' classic 'Fargo.' They dive into unforgettable moments like the inner life of Gaear Grimsrud, the hilarious awkwardness of Mike Yanagita, and the unique 'Minnesota nice' dialogue. The conversation explores the complexity of character dynamics and the balance of humor and darkness throughout the film. Cregger reflects on the operatic score and the film's cultural impact, revealing insights into the Coens’ distinct filmmaking style.

Join Mike Mitchell and Nick Wiger, co-hosts of the Doughboys podcast and chain restaurant aficionados, as they hilariously dissect 'The Hudsucker Proxy.' They delve into the enduring charm of Paul Newman, contrasting the film’s quirky characters with classic Hollywood tropes. The duo riffs on memorable comedic moments and even dips into whimsical Star Wars lore with Yaddle. Expect playful banter about food, personal anecdotes, and reflections on the film’s cultural impact and humor—all while questioning the absurdities of corporate life and cinematic nostalgia.

Chris Weitz, acclaimed filmmaker known for 'About a Boy' and 'American Pie,' delves into the complexities of artistry in Hollywood. The discussion probes John Goodman’s devilish portrayal in 'Barton Fink,' exploring the tension between art and commerce. Weitz reflects on the pitfalls of the studio system, the haunting aesthetic of the film, and how audience expectations shape filmmakers' realities. The conversation balances humor and critique, highlighting the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity in a profit-driven industry while navigating creative labyrinths.

Filmmaker Ari Aster, known for his chilling works like Hereditary and Midsommar, dives into the Coen Brothers' masterwork, Miller's Crossing. He passionately explores themes of ethics and character complexities within the film. Listeners will love his insights on Gabriel Byrne's performances and the surprising Oscar win for Marcia Gay Harden. A discussion on the influence of Jewish identity in cinema adds depth, while humorous anecdotes about Cinema's quirks make it an engaging listen!