Blank Check with Griffin & David

Dive into the whirlwind of Park Chan-wook's latest film, where a unique blend of satire, masculinity, and capitalism takes center stage. The hosts rave about its tonal juggling and eye-popping visuals, with cheeky nods to viral trends and personal anecdotes along the way. Explore themes of family loyalty and societal pressures, while enjoying a sprinkle of dark humor and slapstick moments. Plus, don't miss their take on pop culture tangents, including nostalgic musings and a fascinating Chevy Chase profile!

Griffin Newman, an actor and host/executive producer, joins the discussion after a memorable night at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards. They dive into the nuances of awards campaigning, particularly focusing on Timothée Chalamet's strategic moves for his film "Marty Supreme." The conversation explores the shifting dynamics of the Academy, the film's resonant themes, and how Chalamet's internet savvy positions him as a potential A-list anchor. Spoiler alerts follow as they unpack Marty's ambiguous ending and its deeper implications.

The discussion kicks off with a lively debate about Bradley Cooper's latest film featuring a mixed bag of reviews. They dive into behind-the-scenes anecdotes from a dinner with Cooper, questioning the film's identity as a divorce drama or a comedy. The hosts critique the authenticity of stand-up portrayals and discuss the chemistry among supporting characters. Peyton Manning's surprising performance and the film's pacing issues also come under scrutiny. Tune in for insights on comedy culture and a peek at Cooper's future projects!

Dive into the peculiar world of the awards season as Richard Lawson and Alison Willmore explore the Oscars landscape! They share festival tales, including unforgettable screenings and their first encounters at Cannes. The duo discusses how social media and industry dynamics shape the Oscars race, along with the subtle art of critical influence. Get insights into eligibility rules for foreign and animated films, while reflecting on the importance of festivals like Cannes and Venice in setting the stage for potential winners.

Dive into the chaos of Pandora where a new Na'vi queen captivates hearts. Explore the messy yet thrilling plot of Fire and Ash, highlighting the complexities of Quaritch's arc from villain to antihero. Delve into the fascinating dynamics of Na'vi connections and the ethical stakes of hybrid lifeforms. The hosts dissect the film's narrative density and how it critiques humanity and colonialism. Plus, enjoy insights on production, character dynamics, and exciting future predictions for the franchise!

Richard Lawson, a film critic and writer, joins to discuss the quirky and complex film 'Ella McKay' by James L. Brooks. They dive into themes of political scandals and media narratives, reflecting on the film's rarity in today’s cinemas. The conversation explores the chaotic plot dynamics, including a governor's unexpected rise and family tensions, while noting the film's nostalgic charm despite its flaws. Lawson also teases his new podcast, 'Critical Darlings,' promising more insights into film culture.

Join writer and illustrator Mattie Lubchansky as she dives into the chaotic world of Honey Don’t. They debate the performances of Margaret Qualley and Aubrey Plaza, with insights on Chris Evans' bold career choices. The hosts explore the film's inconsistent tone and how it compares to previous Coen brothers' works. Expect a playful discussion on the intended lesbian B-movie trilogy and the film's unique aesthetic choices. Will Go Beavers rise from the ashes? Tune in for all the juicy insights!

Maya, known as mxmtoon, is a musician and content creator who shares her unique perspective as a first-time viewer of Drive Away Dolls. She dives into the unconventional relationship between Ethan Coen and Tricia Cooke, discussing their creation of a sex-positive queer film. The trio covers the intriguing rise of Pedro Pascal's fame, the decline of lesbian bars, and the film's blend of humor and emotional depth. They also explore mxmtoon’s firsthand experience with the Coens, highlighting the film's light-hearted vibe amidst its cultural reflections.

Dana Schwartz, a talented writer and podcaster, joins to delve into Joel Coen’s The Tragedy of Macbeth. They explore the film's unique visual style, informed by German expressionism and the challenges of pandemic production. The conversation includes a lively debate on the performances of Frances McDormand and Denzel Washington, alongside standout supporting actors. Dana shares her insights into the historical context of Macbeth and the infamous curse of the play, making for a fascinating discussion on adapting Shakespeare for the screen.

Join comedians Paul Scheer and Jason Mantzoukas as they unpack the Coen brothers' film, offering hilarious insights and candid discussions. They dive into the film's anthology style, comparing it to a sketchbook of Western themes, and joke about meme culture stemming from iconic lines. The pair also analyze standout segments, like Tim Blake Nelson's quirky performance and the profound depth of Zoe Kazan's story. Expect spirited banter and a ranking of the Coens' films, making for a delightful exploration of their unique cinematic legacy.