The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: Recent Episodes
The ThawedCast
Jodi and Philip discuss the fifth Toy Story film from Disney/Pixar. The film takes a direct approach to addressing the difficulties of balancing the allure of technology with a healthy childhood. Sherriff Jessie is the leader of the toys that inhabit Bonnie's room, but Bonnie's love of toys isn't shared by her friends, who all have the Lilypad, a smart tablet designed for kids. When Bonnie's parents buy her a Lilypad, it initially seems like this has fixed Bonnies friendship problems, but Jessie recognizes the deeper problems that an abandonment of true play causes. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Lara discuss Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, a film from Matt Johnson and Jay McCarroll, a comedic duo known for playing fictionalized versions of themselves. They have released mockumentary-style videos since 2007 detailing the adventures of 'Nirvana the Band,' later renamed 'Nirvanna the Band' for legal reasons. Their latest film incorporates footage shot for their original web series dating back to 2008, stringing together an absurd time-travel plot that involves a hilarious series of hijinks and impeccable cinematic craft. Shot on a small, indie-level budget and maintaining a documentary aesthetic throughout, the film manages to deliver impressive setpieces and heartfelt moments befitting of the movies it is paying homage. This genre-bending experience is a clever blend of familiar, experimental, and spectacular. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Elliott discuss the latest Star Wars film, The Mandalorian and Grogu, and also dig into the latest Steven Spielberg film, Disclosure Day. In their own ways, these two films are derivative of a legacy of classic pulp sci-fi. They each evoke a sense of nostalgia and empathy in their themes and respective creative visions, and while they don't venture too far from the beaten path, there's enough new territory they cover to make for a worthwhile cinematic experience. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
promises to grant a single wish to the user who cracks it like a glowstick. This seven-dollar children's toy couldn't possibly be the key to winning Nikki's undying affection, could it? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Lara discuss the 1954 animated adaptation of George Orwell's 1945 novella, Animal Farm. When a drunk and cruel farmer fails to uphold the duties of his small, rural farm, the animals rise up and drive him and any other humans from the property. The crafty pigs draw up a plan for a new barnyard civilization. The former livestock agree on a set of animal-centric values that enshrine their newfound liberty, emphasizing equality and unity and condemning anything seen as too human. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie picks up where The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) left off. Mario and Luigi are now heroes who traverse through magical sewer pipes to different realms, including the Mushroom Kingdom, home of the Toads and Princess Peach. The Mushroom Kingdom is threatened by the son of the defeated Bowser, and our heroes take to the stars to battle the tech-savvy Bowser Jr. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/samara_mitchell9, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
of a mission, especially now that has crewmates are dead, the amnesia-stricken Dr. Grace can only hope that a series of unexpected discoveries can somehow salvage any prospect of the mission's success. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
to understand and talk to animals, and it works in a similar way to the titular tech from the 'Avatar' films. Mabel, a 19-year-old college student, stumbles upon this technology as she investigates a mysteriously empty wildlife habitat. The one creature she finds happens to be a beaver robot controlled by her professor, Dr. Sam. Mabel commandeers the robot in order to find the missing animals and wild adventures ensue. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi discuss the new film from Director Emerald Fennell and Warner Bros. Pictures, 'Wuthering Heights' (2026), based on the 1847 novel by Emily Brontë. Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi star as childhood friends-turned-lovers Catherine and Heathcliff. Tragedy and hardship conspire to separate the pair who are then reunited later in adulthood. Passions reignite in the northern English shire where they shared their upbringing and now live as neighbors. Such a twist of fortune could only be the stuff of fairy tales--or nightmares. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/philipehlke, tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Lara discuss the new adaptation of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein from Guillermo del Toro and Netflix, featuring a star-studded cast and an impressive awards season run. This visual spectacle follows the life journey of Victor Frankenstein, son of a renowned surgeon and aristocrat, who suffers the loss of his mother at a young age. Victor becomes obsessed with the human anatomy and the preservation of one's natural life. Whilst conducting macabre experiments with human cadavers, he discovers a way to reanimate an assemblage of body parts, leading to his and his wealthy benefactor's fully-fledged scientific pursuit in the service of playing God. Their efforts yield miraculous results, but their hubris leads to certain dire consequences. Will the creature spawned from the work of Dr. Frankenstein embody the lack of humanity often displayed by its creator? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi discuss 'Marty Supreme' and a variety of other topics such as the Safdie Brothers' filmography, 'Uncut Gems', and the late 2025/early 2026 media and content landscape. The they explore the parallels between 'Uncut Gems' protagonist Howard Ratner and Marty Mauser. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/philipehlke, tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47. Visit thawedcast.com
The current Ozian regime is one of rapid industrialization and modernization, and anyone other than a proper human Ozian is subject to discrimination or worse. In this magical land where the foremost Wizard and Witch are incapable of real magic, true power is viewed with hostility by the one magical mastermind, Madam Morrible. Uniformity and submissiveness are paramount. Can Elphaba enlist the aid of the Wizard and Glinda to thwart their behind-the-scenes puppetmaster? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
by his father. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/samara_mitchell9, instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget discuss 'American Psycho,' a horror/thriller/Christian Bale vehicle from director Mary Harron. Released in 2000, the film is an adaptation of the 'American Psycho' novel by Bret Easton Ellis that is meant to be a grisly, satirical critique of 1980s corporate culture. Bale portrays Patrick Bateman, a young executive on Wall Street, who is obsessed with his looks and social status, his egocentric inner monologue serving as the film's narration. Along with concealing his terrible insecurity, his outward façade also serves to hide an insatiable bloodlust. A man whose existential void has left him bereft of his humanity, Bateman must deal with the maelstrom of chaos that surrounds him constantly, a desperate scenario placated--and reinforced--by his social standing. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
last only 29 minutes.... Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/philipehlke, tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Bridget, and Lara discuss the new film from Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation, 'KPop Demon Hunters'. The film follows a group of K-Pop artists in South Korea, Huntr/x, comprised of pop stars Rumi, Mira, and Zoey. These are no ordinary artists, but super-powered warriors capable of detecting and fighting off demons that manage to infiltrate the real world. They not only uses their music to entertain millions, but also to cast an aura of protection over their homeland that keeps ancient demons from feeding on human souls. This aura, the Honmoon, is threatened when one musically talented demon forms a K-Pop boy band to rival Huntr/x. Will the rivalry doom Huntr/x to failure in their mission to protect the world from their nemesis, Gwi-Ma, now that his servants, the Saja Boys, have found success? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip is joined by Samara and Elliott to talk about the summer movie season. Titles include '28 Years Later,' 'Jurassic World,' 'Superman,' 'Eddington,' and more. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/samara_ehlke9, instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Lara, and Philip discuss the live action Disney remake 'Snow White' from 2025. Directed by Marc Webb and starring Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, this retelling expands the story to encompass Snow White's relationship with her parents, having been born during a snowstorm and later suffering the loss of her mother as a child. Gal Gadot's Evil Queen uses her sorcery to enchant the king and amass her power as queen. Thought to be absent on a military campaign, the king is unable to prevent the Evil Queen from inflicting her cruelty upon Snow White and the citizenry. Snow White eventually escapes and finds herself in the company of the forest-dwelling dwarfs, where she also meets up with a band of rebels loyal to the king. Can they aid Snow White in her attempt to find her father and thwart the treacherous Evil Queen? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/philipehlke, tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47. Visit thawedcast.com
The ThawedCast discusses the first feature-length animated film, 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' from 1937. Philip, Jodi, and Lara examine the impact and legacy of this fairy tale classic that would influence countless films over the decades. Snow White is a princess living in a fantastical medieval-style kingdom currently overseen by her stepmother, a vain and cruel queen. When the Queen's envy of Snow White's beauty reaches a breaking point, she conspires to have the princess killed. Snow White is allowed to escape into the wilderness where she meets seven dwarfs. These mysterious, diminutive men are perplexed by their new house guest, but they grow to appreciate her for the kind spirit she is, and are willing to protect her from the Queen's wrath if ever she were to be found. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/philipehlke, tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47. Visit thawedcast.com
Lara and Philip revisit the original 'Lilo & Stitch' from 2002. This was the feature animation debut for both directors, Dean DeBlois and Chris Sanders, who would team up again on DreamWorks' 'How to Train Your Dragon' (2010). Chris Sanders had originally conceived the Stitch character in 1985, and he has gone on to voice the character in numerous appearances, beginning with the famous "Inter-Stich-als" promotional campaign for this film. He would later reprise the role for the 2025 live-action adaptation, directed by Dean Fleisher Camp. The story followed an escaped alien genetics experiment who crash lands in Hawaii. He poses as a dog and is adopted by recently orphaned sisters Lilo and Nani, but their difficult life seems to only take a turn for the worse with the addition of this new family member. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Alexandria review the new Disney live-action remake 'Lilo & Stitch,' a summer 2025 smash hit at the box office directed by Dean Fleischer Camp. Lilo and her older sister and guardian, Nani, find themselves in a precarious position as Nani struggles to raise the temperamental Lilo on her own following the offscreen death of their parents. On a distant planet, the alien weapons scientist Jumba is being held on trial for unethical experiments. His latest experiment, 626, is a superpowered six-legged furry alien who escapes aboard a spaceship on a course to Earth. Experiment 626 poses as a dog an an animal shelter on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. He is then adopted by Lilo and named Stitch. Stitch introduces various elements of chaos into Lilo and Nani's lives, and the fragile family must weather threats both domestic and extraterrestrial. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Bridget and Philip discuss 'A Minecraft Movie,' based on the popular open-world, LEGO-esque video game, 'Minecraft'. The film follows brother and sister Henry and Natalie as they arrive in a new town and encounter a colorful cast of characters who join in their adventure into the Overworld, the world of 'Minecraft' accessed by a secret portal. In the Overworld, they encounter many terrors but are guided by Steve, the 'Minecraft' protagonist carried over from the game. The Overworld has come under threat of the Piglins, who occupy the Nether dimension, and the film's merry band of misfits must work together to keep the evil forces of the Nether from taking over Steve's beloved mining & crafting paradise. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke Visit thawedcast.com
Having made recent trips to Walt Disney World, Jodi and Bridget join Philip to discuss the new Magic Kingdom attraction Tiana's Bayou Adventure, a 'The Princess and the Frog' re-theming of the log flume ride Splash Mountain based on animated segments from 'Song of the South'. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke, tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Lara discuss 'The Substance' written and directed by French Filmmaker Coralie Fargeat. Fargeat and 'The Substance' won Best Screenplay at the festival, and the film has since received many accolades and has earned strong word-of-mouth buzz for its incisive storytelling and its iconic visual style. This sci-fi-infused horror film makes heavy use of practical makeup effects and vibrant production design, and won the Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling. Demi Moore stars as Elisabeth Sparkle, an actress and TV personality who is ending her career has an exercise show host. Devastated by the prospect of aging out of a life of being celebrated for her physical appearance, Elisabeth turns to an experimental "substance" that purports to alleviate some of the difficult aspects of aging. This has a highly disruptive effect on Elisabeth's life, but the lure proves too difficult to resist, and the substance takes hold with the potential for innumerable unforeseen consequences. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Lara, Jodi, and Bridget discuss the new Disney animated sequel, 'Moana 2'. Moana returns to screens after eight years since the original. Set a number of years after the first film, the heroine has embraced her role as a wayfinder and is searching for other inhabited islands in an attempt to establish contact with the outside world. After receiving a vision from her ancestors, Moana sets out to an island that once served as the hub of her civilization. There are dark spirits and frightening creatures standing in her way, so it is bound to be a perilous voyage, posing tremendous risk to Moana and her newly formed crew. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke, tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Elliott discuss the most recent Star Wars series from Lucasfilm and Disney Plus, 'Skeleton Crew'. Four kids growing up in the suburbs have their life planned out on the seemingly unremarkable planet At Attin. At Attin's place in the galaxy is shrouded in mystery, however, due to its secretive role as a Republic mint holding countless credits in its vaults. Fern, KB, Wim, and Neel discover a crashed pirate ship and are taken on an an adventure with the help of pirate droid SM33 and the roguish Jod Na Nawood. Their desire to return to the safety of home is complicated by their home planet's vulnerability should its location ever be discovered by their pirate pursuers. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Bridget and Philip talk about 'Spellbound' (2024), a new animated musical from Netflix and Skydance Animation. This is the second animated feature to come from Skydance after 'Luck' (2022) and is directed and co-written by 'Shrek' director Vicky Jenson. The film takes viewers to the enchanted, or rather, cursed, kingdom of Lumbria, ruled by King Solon and Queen Ellsmere. Their daughter, Princess Ellian, must determine whether to become queen, since the king and queen were transformed into feral monsters and have been hidden away in the palace for a year. Ellian manages to contact two oracles who are unable to reverse the enchantment but point her toward a possible solution. She must guide the two lizard-like monsters on a journey to a lake of light, but must contend with the fact that this perilous quest will likely leave her, her kingdom, and her family forever changed. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke, visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Lara discuss the new film from Focus Features and Robert Eggers, a remake of the 1922 German silent film 'Nosferatu.' Eggers brings his signature austere style to this classic Gothic horror story, originally an unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker's 'Dracula.' Key details were changed from the book, but that didn't stop the original film's legacy from being threatened by the forcible destruction of all prints due to copyright infringement. Thankfully the film lives on and Max Shreck's iconic portrayal of the corpse-like Count Orlok would go on to inspire generations of vampire enthusiasts. Bill Skarsgård provides a unique take on Count Orlok as he haunts and seduces his unwitting victims, such as the newlywed Thomas and Ellen Hutter and their friends Frederick and Anna Harding. This dark, atmospheric film evokes the previous works of Eggers whose obsessive attention to detail transports you to 1830s Germany, where the fear of plagues and sorcery were ever-present, often requiring tremendous sacrifice to thwart the evil that infects the world. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Mele Kalikimaka as the ThawedCast covers 'Moana,' the monumental 2016 film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, directed by longtime Disney Animation dynamic duo John Musker and Ron Clements, and co-directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams. Bridget, Lara and Philip revisit the mythical ancient Polynesian world of Moana of Motunui (Auli'i Cravalho) and her adventures with the demigod Maui (Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson). Moana--a princess of sorts as the daughter of the chief--is faced with inheriting the leadership of an insular island nation that has abandoned its seafaring roots. However, she must learn to sail in order to restore the Heart of Te Fiti, a magical relic bestowed on her by the ocean. Failing in her mission would doom her island to a growing famine. Guided by her grandmother's spirit and the power of the ocean, she first seeks out the aid of the shapeshifter Maui. He reluctantly agrees to accompany her, first to retrieve his magical fishhook, and then to potentially face the perils posed by the demon Te Kā, who has corrupted the influence of the nature goddess Te Fiti. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The ThawedCast celebrates the release of ‘Wicked: Part I’ from Universal Pictures, 21 years after the Broadway musical made its sparkling debut. Jodi, Lara, Bridget, and Philip discuss the new 160-minute film which concludes at the intermission point of the stage version. This ‘Wizard of Oz’ prequel began as a 1995 Gregory McQuire novel depicting a darker, more adult take on the original mythology conceived by L. Frank Baum. The film doesn’t shy away from borrowing heavily from the imagery of the seminal 1939 Judy Garland film, but it certainly provides a different take on the characters, positioning Elphaba, future Wicked Witch of the West, as the main hero of the story. Elphaba’s widowed father only grudgingly allows her to leave home in order to help care for her paraplegic younger sister, as the two enroll at the prestigious Shiz University. There, Elphaba meets Galinda, future Good Witch of the North. This iconic pair embark on a fateful rivalry that evolves heavily over the course of the film. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke, tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Bridget, and Philip convene prior to Thanksgiving to sneak in a quick episode about a holiday classic (Passover, in this case)--2019's 'Uncut Gems,' directed by brothers Josh and Benny Safdie. Adam Sandler plays Howard Ratner, a jewelry dealer in Manhattan's Diamond District. He and his associates, Demany and Julia (LaKeith Stanfield and Julia Fox), work together to attract a high-profile clientele. Kevin Garnett stars as himself as an interested buyer of a mysterious black opal recently obtained by Howard. Set during the 2012 NBA Eastern Conference semi-finals, 'Uncut Gems' imagines an outcome to the series perhaps influenced by Garnett's connection to the opal, as he feels drawn to it. Howard first needs Garnett to win the opal in an auction where he hopes to gain a large enough profit to pay off a gambling debt. When this plan falters due to the opal's poor valuation, Howard sneakily uses the reduced earnings to place a bet on Garnett, now in possession of the opal, hoping KG will score big in game 7. This Rube Goldberg mousetrap of a film sees Howard go from a failed family man pleading with his wife (Idina Menzel), to uptown playboy renting helicopters, to cornered con fending off loan sharks. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. tiktok.com/@jodipolasky47, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
In celebration of Wicked Month, Philip, Bridget, and Lara discuss the 2015 LucasFilm animated feature, 'Strange Magic.' Featuring the voice talents of Evan Rachel Wood, Alan Cumming and Kristin Chenoweth, this fairytale combines the fantasy romance of ‘A Midsummer Night's Dream’ and the musical tastes of George Lucas, who curated this jukebox musical's all-pop soundtrack. The musical selections range from the titular song by ELO and the main protagonist's eponymous "C'mon Marianne" by The Four Seasons to more recent hits from Beyoncé and Kelly Clarkson. Marianne is a fairy princess who abruptly ends her engagement to the self-obsessed knight Roland. Presumptive heir to the fairy kingdom, she must follow her destiny to protect her kingdom from the Dark Forest as well as from the scheming Roland. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/partoflarasworld, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Samara and Philip review and discuss the found-footage horror film from directorial sibling duo Cameron and Colin Cairnes, 'Late Night with the Devil.' This re-creation of a 1970s late night talk show, the fictional "Night Owls" with Jack Delroy, depicts one night of the show gone horribly wrong, as the broadcast becomes infiltrated by an evil force. Desperate to rise to the top of the ratings, Delroy pulls out all the stops for his 1977 Halloween special, bringing on a colorful panel of guests culminating with a psychologist and her patient. Each round of guests successively leads the show down the road toward a hellish outcome, providing a spectacle that confirms the old adage for Delroy: Careful what you wish for. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/samara_ehlke9, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Elliott chat about 'Transformers One,' the new animated film from Paramount Animation depicting the origins of the Autobots and Decepticons and their respective leaders, Optimus Prime and Megatron. These central characters within the Transformers franchise begin as humble miner bots on Cybertron, a planet ravaged by conflicts that have depleted its key natural resource, Energon, needed for life to exist on Cybertron. In order to become Transformers, miner bots would need to acquire a "cog," which are also scarce. The ambitious miners simply known as Orion Pax and D-16 hatch a plan to attempt to raise all miners' status within Cybertronian society, all while attempting to unlock the secrets of their world's mysterious past. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Hayao Miyazaki directs the latest film from Studio Ghibli, 'The Boy and the Heron' (2023). This Oscar-winning film serves a magnum opus for a venerated animator nearing the end of his career, reflecting on his early life in this quasi-autobiographical fantasy. Mahito Maki leaves his home in Tokyo following the death of his mother in a World War II firebombing. Raised in a wealthy family, Mahito struggles to get along with his peers at his new rural school. He spends his time exploring his maternal family's palatial estate, including an abandoned tower that holds a profound secret. A mysterious gray heron beckons him to enter the tower, and when it appears his aunt-turned-stepmother has gone to the tower as well, Mahito hurries after her, plunging headfirst into a glimpse at destiny itself. Join Philip, Jodi, and Bridget as they discuss this animated epic. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget discuss the 1984 film from Hayao Miyazaki 'Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind,' the film that kick-started the animation output of Studio Ghibli, co-founded by Miyazaki in 1985. Based on a manga series by Miyazaki, the film takes place in an environmentally ravaged word a millennium after a major apocalyptic event. The remaining human population struggles to survive alongside vast expanses of inhospitable toxic jungles and the giant insects that inhabit them. Nausicaä, the adventurous Princess of the Valley of the Wind, gets caught up in the tribal struggles of two adjacent kingdoms; one of which has awakened an ancient weapon it foolishly hopes can ward against the various existential threats to humanity. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: x.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Samara discuss the latest film in the 'Alien' franchise, 'Alien: Romulus.' This new release from Twentieth Century studios and director Fede Alvarez delivers sci-fi thrills and chills as a group of young colonists attempt to escape their bleak circumstances. Their opportunity comes when a wayward research station is pulled into orbit above their hazardous mining planet. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/samara_ehlke9, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Jodi, and Lara discuss the 90s blockbuster 'Twister' and growing up in the 1990s in rural environments. Also discussions on modern blockbusters and introducing kids to media. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget discuss the latest film from Pixar Animation, Inside Out 2, the smash hit sequel to 2015’s Inside Out. Riley Andersen is on summer break just as her emotions, Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust, are forced to reckon with a major renovation to their Headquarters. The upgrades, a.k.a. puberty, have resulted in the creation of all-new emotions: Anxiety, Embarrassment, Envy, and Ennui, much to the Original Five’s dismay. These newer, more complex emotions clash with the old over control of Riley’s mind, especially when it becomes clear that the new emotions were never meant to replace the old ones. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Philip and Bridget discuss the sequel to 'Dune' from 2021, concluding Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of the original 'Dune' novel by Frank Herbert. After the massacre of House Atreides on Arrakis, the Harkonnens have retaken their stronghold on spice and resumed their war with the Fremen. Paul Atreides and his mother, Jessica, enlist the help of Fremen leaders to organize a resistance capable of crippling the Harkonnens and commanding the attention of the Emperor. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi discuss the 2022 film from Jordan Peele and Universal Pictures, 'Nope', an alien-abduction tale with a few genre twists. OJ and Emerald Haywood are a brother-and-sister duo who experience strange phenomena on their horse ranch and attempt to capture images of what they believe to be a real UFO. They enlist the help of Angel, a security camera technician and Antlers, a cinematographer, to capture the ultimate "Oprah shot" of the elusive craft. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Elliott discuss some recent animated offerings from the Star Wars universe, 'The Bad Batch' and 'Tales of the Empire'. Both series depict the transition from the era of the Jedi and the Republic into the tyrannical Empire secretly controlled by the evil Sith. The Bad Batch follows a select group of clones with desirable mutations who have formed their own mercenary team following the events of Order 66 and the Clone Wars. 'Tales' follows former Nightsister Morgan Elsbeth in her embrace of imperialism after witnessing her people massacred by separatists. The series then switches perspectives midway to former Jedi Barriss Offee on her path to joining the ranks of the ominous Imperial Inquistors. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Bridget, and Jodi chat about musicals, film franchises, motherhood and other entertainment hopes and hangups in the ever-evolving 2024 media landscape. Will new throwback franchise installments like 'Twisters' inject some much needed life into the box office? Or will new properties like 'The Fall Guy' and 'IF' provide a sense of originality that audiences are craving? Plus some thoughts about the upcoming 'Wicked' adaptation and 'Wish' on Disney Plus. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
After the chickens escape the Tweedys' farm in 2000's 'Chicken Run,' they settle on a secluded island and enjoy their newfound freedom. In this stop-motion sequel, again from the claymation experts at the UK's Aardman animation studio, the heroic duo Ginger and Rocky have hatched a daughter named Molly. Molly grows to be as adventurous and freedom-loving as her parents and thus resolves to explore the world outside their chicken oasis. However, the human threat to chickens has only grown to encompass a much greater, new peril: fast food. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The first feature animated film from Aardman, the animators of the famous 'Wallace and Gromit' stop-motion "claymation" short films, 'Chicken Run' was one of DreamWorks' first great successes as an up-and-coming rival to Disney and Pixar. The film is an homage to World War II prisoner-of-war stories like 'The Great Escape' and 'Stalag 17', depicting its cast of toothy, anthropomorphic chickens in their attempts to escape captivity from a rural English egg farm. One hen in particular, Ginger, is determined to lead the coop to freedom, and a chance encounter with a flying rooster named Rocky gives her renewed hope that she and her fellow hens will escape by making one slight alteration to their strategy: by flying over the fence. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Bridget and Philip discuss ‘A Whiker Away,’ a 2020 anime film from Studio Colorido, Toho Animation and Twin Engine and distributed on Netflix. The film follows Miyo, a fanciful eighth grader in Japan who finds herself embroiled in a Faustian bargain with a feline seller of magical Noh masks. Her newfound power to transform into a cat provides a welcome escape from the stresses of her unhappy life, but she runs the risk of losing sight of the many people who love and are concerned for her. Can the love of family and friends stop Miyo from falling fully for under a cat spell forever? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
'Suzume' is the 2022 animated feature from CoMix Wave Films and the seventh film from writer/director Makoto Shinkai, who most recently saw global crossover success with 'Your Name' (2016) and 'Weathering with You' (2019). 'Suzume' is a supernatural adventure wherein the eponymous heroine accompanies the mysterious Souta across Japan on a quest to track down Daijin, a mischievous cat-god who places a curse on Souta. Along the way they must close several gates that are unleashing restless spirits upon humanity. Failure to do will spell certain disaster for a populace whose ignorance has only inflamed the earthquake-yielding wrath of the spirits. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi review 'Wish', the 62nd animated feature from Walt Disney Animation Studios. 'Wish' continues a legacy that is currently being celebrated in the Walt Disney Company's 100-year anniversary as the foundation upon which the rest of the company is built. The Disney Empire has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1923 as a company set up by Walt and Roy Disney to produce short cartoons. The role of animation as the core of the company has fluctuated significantly, from nearly seeing the animation division shut down in the mid-eighties to the highs of the nineties Renaissance. Despite a post-Covid, post-Disney+ cooling at the box office, Disney Animation continues its output of blockbuster-level films with a story inspired by the Wishing Star referenced in the company logo and theme song, "When You Wish Upon a Star." In 'Wish' we follow Asha, a new heroine who aspires to apprentice under the benevolent sorcerer-king Magnifico, who has power over wishes. The purity of one of Asha's wishes outshines Magnifico's power and makes him envious, sending an idyllic kingdom into a precarious state of discontent as it suffers under increasingly evil and despotic rule. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Lara joins Philip to reminisce about ten years of Disney's 'Frozen'. They discuss the film's influence and how the film and animation industries have changed since 2013. They also explore the fandom of 'Frozen' and Disney more generally and consider the future for the franchise in the context of Disney's status as a film studio in 2023. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Elliott discuss the latest live-action Star Wars series from Lucasfilm and Disney Plus, 'Ahsoka,' spotlighting the popular Jedi who first appeared in 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars.' Ahsoka Tano is portrayed by Rosario Dawson in this eight-episode exploration of the roving former Jedi. Ahsoka is searching for clues to the location of Grand Admiral Thrawn, who disappeared years prior along with Rebel hero Ezra Bridger. Rumors abound of Thawn's possible return, and his leadership could prove devastating to the frail New Republic. A small band of heroes must work together to thwart the actions of a secretive group of agents who are working to unlock the secret route to a faraway planet--a world that plays host to mysteries pivotal to the future of the galaxy. This may prove too tempting a Pandora's box to simply allow it to remain unopened, as it may be the key to rescuing Ezra. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Bridget and Philip discuss the 1992 Francis Ford Coppola Film 'Bram Stoker's Dracula.' This film follows the 1897 'Dracula' novel and lends a signature artistic flourish courtesy of Coppola's visionary direction and diverse practical visual effects, vibrant costumes, ornate period sets and atmospheric score. Originally conceived as a minimalist adaptation of the original source material, Coppola along with his son Roman, who has worked on numerous music videos and Wes Anderson films, decided to expand what would have been an eccentric costume drama into a scrappy Gothic epic employing many unconventional techniques and creative choices more a film from classic Hollywood, and what results is a truly unique cinematic classic that feels simultaneously grand and intimate, with a stellar cast lending a timeless theatricality to the project. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Bridget and Philip discuss the new animated film from Paramount and Nickelodeon Studios, 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.' Directed by 'Mitchell's vs the Machines' alumni Jeff Rowe and Kyler Spears, 'Mutant Mayhem' incorporates numerous hand-drawn elements to enhance the cel-shaded 3D animated world of the Ninja Turtles. This new take on the franchise introduces the supervillain "Superfly," who shares a common origin with the Turtles. Initially tempted to join Superfly and his gang, and feeling stifled in their situation under their surrogate father and master, the boys Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael decide to seek favor in the eyes of humanity with the help of the PR-savvy journalist April O'Neil. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi discuss 2010's 'TRON: Legacy,' the long-awaited sequel to 1982's 'TRON' starring Jeff Bridges as a plucky computer programmer who gets sucked into the computer world. This seminal "legacy sequel" from Joseph Kosinski, who would go on to direct the 2022 mega-hit 'Top Gun: Maverick,' also stars Jeff Bridges as Kevin Flynn and centers around Kevin's son Sam, who lost contact with his father who has been missing since 1989. Bruce Boxleitner returns as Alan Bradley/Tron and Olivia Wilde costars as the enigmatic Quorra. Sam and Alan receive their first sign of contact from Kevin in two decades, and Sam's investigation leads him to the mythical "digital frontier" from his father's bedtime stories. Though a third TRON film has long been rumored, the series has seen some recent rejuvenation with Walt Disney World attraction 'TRON: Lightcycle Run,' which opened in Magic Kingdom in April 2023. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Wes Anderson's genre-bending, fourth wall-breaking new film 'Asteroid City' features a colorful cast collected in a remote desert setting. The government research hub of Asteroid City has few permanent residents but plays host to a science convention honoring the achievements of brilliant young minds. Suddenly, a quarantine befalls Asteroid City, and whether or not this eclectic congregation is allowed to leave their impromptu purgatory unscathed, it's clear that some characters carry their cage with them. Perhaps this is the diversion they need to escape their own personal prison. Philip and Jodi discuss the film's fantastical whimsy, compelling characters and wry observations on creativity and human nature. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi discuss the latest film from Christopher Nolan and Universal Pictures, 'Oppenheimer,' documenting the Manhattan Project and the life of its co-leader and chief researcher, J. Robert Oppenheimer. Oppenheimer would earn the nickname "Father of the Atomic Bomb" and later "American Prometheus" as the person most responsible for the creation and testing of nuclear weapons, of which only two have ever been used in combat. Despite this, the implications of this technology are haunting, and Oppenheimer retains one of the most complicated legacies of any key figure of the twentieth century. This film details the political manipulation he endured as a morally flawed, tortured genius whose work would inevitably be used in ways he abhorred, but for which he is ultimately responsible--a fitting avatar for mankind itself. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Bridget, Lara, and Philip discuss 'Barbie' from Warner Bros. and Mattel. This motion picture phenomenon is directed by Greta Gerwig and stars Margot Robbie as Barbie, or "Stereotypical Barbie" as distinguished from all the other Barbies in Barbieland. Ryan Gosling plays her Ken, who exists to impress Barbie but often goes underappreciated. We follow Stereotypical Barbie as she starts feeling sensations of dissatisfaction with her idyllic yet highly artificial existence. With the guidance of "Weird Barbie," Barbie learns she must go to the real world and find the doll owner who is sending out these negative thoughts. Can Barbie's mission resolve her existential crisis or could this risk jeopardizing the entirety of Barbieland should these feelings of existential crisis continue to spread? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
'Nimona' is an animated film released by Netflix on June 30, 2023. It was produced by Annapurna Pictures and the animation team formerly of Blue Sky, the studio behind 'Ice Age' (2002) and 'Spies and Disguise' (2019) and a casualty of the Disney/21st Century Fox acquisition. Nimona is set in a world of futuristic technology combined with medieval chivalry and opens on the televised knighting ceremony of Ballister Boldheart. Immediately upon being knighted, Sir Ballister is framed for assassination and forced on the run. Wounded and desperate, he encounters a mysterious young girl who seems impervious to danger. Nimona is a shapeshifter who volunteers to assist Ballister in his efforts to evade capture and clear his name. This uneasy alliance could upend everything Ballister has come to value as a knight, exposing a darkness that has always existed within the order he has sworn to protect. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
'Elemental' is the new film from Pixar Animation and Walt Disney Studios, directed by Peter Sohn. Philip and Bridget discuss the new film all about two characters who are of two opposite extremes. Ember is a being made of fire who comes from an immigrant family and Wade comes from the city's long-established water community. Their conflict blossoms into a potential romance as they discover the ways they complement each other through their differences. Discover how such hyperbolic characters manage to navigate each one's professional-, home-, and love-life through such precarious circumstances as would be experienced by persons entirely composed of water, earth, fire, or air. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi are joined by 'The Little Mermaid'-superfan Lara Akal to review the 2023 'The Little Mermaid' from Disney. This film reimagines the 1989 Disney animated original in live action with a fresh cast and additional songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Alan Menken returns to score and Howard Ashman's legendary lyrics have been revived once again for an ambitious encore. This latest adaptation of a Disney classic is sure to be one of the most celebrated, despite having its share of criticism and controversy. The mermaid Ariel is a princess of peerless song and beauty and seeks to build a bridge with the world above her--the brave, seafaring Prince Eric being the perfect partner with whom to do so. The magic of the underwater realm can afford her the ability to exist on land, but her hastily-chosen spellcaster has ulterior motives that could spell doom for Ariel and her father's kingdom. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Elliott discuss the latest release from Marvel Studios, 'Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3' written and directed by James Gunn. The Guardians must race to save the life of one of their members after a surprise encounter with an agent of the High Evolutionary, a maniacal scientist and warlord with aims to create a perfect utopia under his control. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Bridget and Philip discuss the new Max Original animated series ‘Fired on Mars’ available on HBO Max. Jeff Cooper is a graphic designer for the tech giant Mars.ly, and has recently been transferred to their corporate offices on planet Mars. He awaits the day when he can finally start a new life with his partner Hannah, who is scheduled to arrive the following year. Jeff’s life is thrown into disarray when he is notified that his position has been laid off, leaving him stranded on Mars without a job and completely at the mercy of the Mars.ly facilities. Deprived of a sense of belonging, Jeff embarks on a quest to find a new purpose: hopefully one that can help him improve his self-confidence and acquire the skills necessary to fill one of the few roles available on the lonely red planet. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget talk about season 3 of Lucasfilm's 'The Mandalorian' on Disney Plus. This season finds Din Djarin and Grogu searching for the Living Waters of Mandalore. Din believes he can work with his fellow Mandalorians to restore their homeworld and reunite their people. The disgraced Bo-Katan Kryze is one of the few people who can lead a fractured Mandalore, but first she must earn the trust of the fundamentalist Children of the Watch along with her own former band of mercenaries. Meanwhile, Imperial remnants are secretly reorganizing, threatening a vulnerable New Republic. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
'The Super Mario Bros. Movie' is the record-shattering 2023 film adaptation of the beloved 'Super Mario Bros.' video game franchise from Nintendo. Philip, Bridget, and Alex review the new animated release from Universal Pictures and Illumination, delving into the whimsical fantasy of the Mushroom Kingdom along with New York City plumbers Mario and Luigi, whose epic adventure finds them face-to-face with all kinds of colorful characters. The menacing King of the Koopas, Bowser, is bearing down on Princess Peach's castle in his latest move toward conquest. Meanwhile, Mario and Peach set out to seek aid from the neighboring jungle and its leaders Kranky and Donkey Kong. Is their any hope of stopping Bowser? Are Mario and Luigi doomed to meet their fate in this strange magical world? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Bridget, Jodi and Philip review the Oscar-winning 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' a wild visual spectacle from directors Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert and A24 Films. Released in April 2022 in the United States, 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' features a Chinese immigrant couple struggling to keep up with the pressures of their laundromat business. During a visit to the local IRS office, Evelyn, played by Michelle Yeoh, is visited by an alternate version of her husband Waymond (Ke Huy Quan) suddenly inhabiting his body. He informs her that the Evelyn from his universe was a scientist who discovered inter-dimensional travel, but now he needs the help of laundromat-Evelyn to save the multiverse from collapsing. Can Evelyn awaken the hero lying dormant inside her, or will all of existence succumb to the certain doom that awaits her business--and perhaps her family as well. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Bridget and Philip review the 2022 'Pinocchio' adaptation from renowned filmmaker Guillermo del Toro and Netflix. Filmed using stop-motion puppetry, del Toro co-directs with Mark Gustafson a film that reflects the signature dark whimsy of del Toro's earlier films, unafraid to delve into heavy symbolism involving war and loss. The wartime setting is punctuated by numerous colorful characters and moments of strong levity, offering a familiar yet fresh take on the classic story. Pinocchio's journey through late-1930's Italy is full of twists and turns that leave you breathless. Discover how Pinocchio narrowly escapes peril in this life and beyond, seeking to somehow return to a place of peace and belonging alongside his cricket companion his father Gepetto. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Bridget and Philip review and discuss the 2022 animated film 'The Sea Beast' from Netflix. Walt Disney Animation Studios veteran Chris Williams writes and directs on a film that follows in the footsteps of his past efforts including 'Bolt,' 'Big Hero 6,' and 'Moana.' 'The Sea Beast' offers epic adventure on the high seas where we follow the crew of the 'Inevitable,' the greatest hunters of the terrible sea creatures that haunt the deep. Maisie Brumble is an orphan obsessed with Hunter lore and stows away on the 'Inevitable' to ingratiate herself with Captain Crow and officers Jacob Holland and Sarah Sharpe. Maisie's quick thinking saves the ship during a creature encounter but causes herself and Jacob to be stranded on an island full of creatures. In order to escape, they must rethink their entire relationship to the sea beasts and reevaluate their place amongst the Hunters. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget discuss a variety of pop-culture topics including AI art being sold at conventions, free shipping, the gig economy, and the pressures of standardized education. The rapid movement of commerce via online and tech-based innovation has been a source of tremendous excitement since the advent of the internet, but eventually the excitement wears off and people necessarily adapt to a more sustainable model. Sure, there are those who will try to exploit the recent advancements in things like AI and online streaming, but there are inevitable costs to these new technologies of which we can only speculate. How to improve education poses an increasing challenge as one's mental health can easily be affected by the pressures of meeting standards, to the detriment of proper education and enrichment. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The first entry in the now-ubiquitous 'Sonic the Hedgehog' film franchise starring James Marsden and Jim Carrey, with Ben Schwartz providing the voice of the classic Sega mascot, 'Sonic the Hedgehog' was released in early 2020 to an enthusiastic audience. The movie managed to win over a younger crowd who had inherited the legacy of the 90s icon, and it generally appealed to longtime fans of the series. Jim Carrey delivers his fully-fledged singular brand of physical comedy in a true return to form, and Paramount Pictures narrowly avoided crippling disaster by revamping its original CGI Sonic model featured in the teaser trailer, later immortalized as "Ugly Sonic" from 'Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers' (2022). Philip, Bridget, and Alex break down the film's merits and discuss a broad range of video game-related topics including streaming series and theme parks, along with some A.I. talk. The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' is the sequel to 2011's 'Puss in Boots' and is the sixth film in the 'Shrek' franchise from Dreamworks Animation. Philip and Bridget discuss this new theatrical release, the studio's 43rd feature, and measure it up against today's cinematic landscape. 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' finds the literary hero Puss reckoning with his potential demise. The dashing rogue's hard living has nearly caught up to him, and now he finds himself on his ninth and final life. He befriends a stray dog and is roped into one last adventure with Kitty Softpaws. They must steal the map to the wishing star from the evil Jack Horner and brave a treacherous, ever-changing forest full of dangers and temptations. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget discuss 'Strange World' from Walt Disney Animation Studios, The Walt Disney Company celebrates its 100th anniversary and its feature animation division's 61st animated film, coinciding with a new castle logo redesign to celebrate the centennial milestone. With a premise pulled from pulp novels of the early twentieth century, 'Strange World' places viewers in the mysterious Victorian-styled land of Avalonia. Jaeger Clade is a famous explorer whose life's mission is to find passage through the impenetrable mountains surrounding the known world. Raised to follow in his father's footsteps, Searcher Clade abandons exploration in favor of science and learns to cultivate an energy-rich plant called Pando that technologically revolutionizes Avalonia. When the power of Pando is suddenly threatened, three generations of Jaegers must attempt to solve the problem and learn to work together as a family that hasn't always seen eye-to-eye. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip is joined by his sister Samara and her husband Elliot in discussing the new 'Star Wars' series on Disney+, 'Andor'. This live-action sci-fi drama details the origin of Cassian Andor, co-protagonist of the 2016 film 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' about the mission to steal the Death Star plans from the evil Galactic Empire. Cassian finds himself a reluctant participant in a nascent rebellion after his talents are noticed by rebel organizer Luthen Rael. With the secret backing of key political figures like Senator Mon Mothma and the versatility of operatives like Andor, Rael seeks to unite the rebel cause against an increasingly oppressive Empire. It is a deadly game of duplicity and intrigue in which no one is safe, and anyone is liable to be sacrificed for the greater good of ridding the galaxy of its Imperial shackles. Although, perhaps opinions differ on how much of one's humanity may be sacrificed whilst retaining hope for a brighter future. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/samara_ehlke9, instagram.com/ellimundo, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Bridget, and Philip return to the world of 'Enchanted' in its sequel 15 years in the making. Set around a decade after the original film, Giselle and Patrick have a child of their own, the infant Sofia, and Morgan is entering her senior year of high school. They move from their Manhattan apartment to the idyllic suburb of Monroeville, but Morgan (and to a lesser extent Robert) is unhappy with the change. Despite having a more-or-less amicable relationship with her teenage stepdaughter, the added friction of the move casts a gloom over the household that Giselle attempts to lift by resorting to magic. Using a wishing wand gifted to Sofia by King Edward and Queen Nancy of Andalasia, Giselle wishes for the fairytale life she was hoping Monroeville would provide, but the wand's spell proves to be far more effective than Giselle ever would have anticipated.... Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Bridget, and Philip discuss the seminal 2007 Disney animated/live-action hybrid 'Enchanted,' from director Kevin Lima. This film would usher in the post-Rennaissance era of the Disney Princess which saw a soft revival with 'The Princess and the Frog' and truly exploded with CGI hits like 'Tangled' and 'Frozen.' Amy Adams portrays Giselle, a beautiful princess hidden away in the countryside of the kingdom of Andalasia. With a prologue lifted mostly from 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,' an evil queen desperate for power refuses to allow her stepson Prince Edward's marriage to Giselle to go through. Giselle is banished to another realm and finds herself in 2007 New York City, where she meets and befriends Patrick Dempsey's Robert and his daughter, Morgan. Entrenched in his own busy lifestyle, Robert has no time for Giselle and her fantasies but somehow can't help but be drawn to her. When Giselle is followed to New York by Edward and the Queen's henchman, a plot ensues that could spell a dire fate for Giselle and everyone around her. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget discuss ‘Zootopia+’ from Walt Disney Animation Studios, the six-part anthology set in the world of the film ‘Zootopia’ from 2016. Other topics in this this episode include ‘Grogu and the Dust Bunnies’ from Lucasfilm and Studio Ghibli, Taylor Swift’s ‘Midnights,’ and future ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ spin-offs. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Bridget and Alex discuss 'Wendell & Wild' from 'Coraline' and 'Nightmare Before Christmas' director Henry Selick. Released October 2022 on Netflix, the film stars Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele respectively as the eponymous duo Wendell and Wild, two mischievous demons in the service of arch-demon Buffalo Belzer. The film was originally conceived by Henry Selick with additional writing contribution by Jordan Peele, who also produced the film. The film follows Kat, voiced by Lyric Ross, a troubled 13-year-old who is enrolled in a Catholic boarding school after spending time in juvenile detention. The school is one of the few remaining establishments in the cursed town of Rust Bank, which is now mostly uninhabited. The sinister family responsible for Rust Bank's woes has nearly achieved their goal of breaking ground on a new prison, but when Kat discovers her connection to the demons Wendell and Wild, the town's fate takes a surprising turn, and now the forces of the underworld have a major role to play. Can Wendell and Wild achieve their dream of escaping Belzer and building their Dream Faire? Can the tortured Kat ever truly find home? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Bridget, Alex and Philip have a general chat about animation, entertainment and pop culture news and topics. Come hang with the ThawedCast in this laid-back episode containing everything from the upcoming 'Super Mario Bros.' movie to celebrity encounters. Also each co-host has his or her own Mandela-effect moment, so there's also that. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Alex, Philip and Bridget put out an APB on 'Monster House' from 2003, directed by Gil Kenan, about a villainous house that eats people (and dogs)! This edgy horror-comedy for kids is the perfect balance of kid-friendly intrigue and clever, tongue-in-cheek dialogue from the animation house behind 'The Polar Express.' Having made the tonal shift from Christmas to Halloween, Robert Zemeckis' ImageMovers adopted a more cartoonish style for their characters in a rare departure for the performance-capture specialists. This arguably gives 'Monster House' a more ageless quality a la classic Tim Burton or Henry Selick stop motion. Can DJ, Chowder, and Jenny defeat the ultimate haunted house before it devours more victims? They key (literally) lies in one of the best fake-out deaths (in a movie that also has one of the best anatomical jokes) ever put to film. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/elysiumskyy, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Alex, Heather and Philip review the 2003 animated TV special, 'Scary Godmother: Halloween Spooktakular' from Mainframe Entertainment. The Canadian studio behind classic kids' shows like 'ReBoot' and 'Beast Wars' obtained the TV rights to Jill Thompson's 'Scary Godmother' book series in the late nineties. They eventually produced two hour-long TV specials that aired in the United States on Cartoon Network. The first 'Scary Godmother' follows a group of five kids on Halloween; one of whom is the young cousin of the mischievous Jimmy. Jimmy concocts a plan to scare his cousin Hannah so that she'll agree to stay home while the older kids stay out. She is deathly scared of monsters, so they stage a monster encounter in an abandoned house. Hannah is rescued and brought to the "Fright Side" by Scary Godmother, a kindly witch who watches over children on Halloween. Hannah learns to overcome her fears and even has a chance to get back at her pranksters with some real spooky magic. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/southernrosecosplay, instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget discuss the long-awaited sequel to the 1993 Halloween classic 'Hocus Pocus'. 'Hocus Pocus 2' is now streaming on Disney+ and features the return of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy to their iconic comedy trio of seventeenth-century witches from Salem. This time they are awoken by a pair of teenage girls who have unknowingly been supplied a notorious black-flame candle for use in their Halloween good luck ritual-gone-bad. Now the witches are once again on the loose and ready to wreak all kinds of musical havoc upon Salem. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The ThawedCast takes a journey back to 1982 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the release of 'TRON' from Walt Disney Pictures. Jodi, Alex, and Philip share their thoughts and varying degrees of enthusiasm for the film, which delivers a truly unique visual experience whose lack of direct imitators perhaps illustrates its mixed reception amongst moviegoers upon its release. Despite a poor box office performance relative to a sizable budget, 'TRON' would spawn multiple successful arcade and home console video games--an appropriate consolation for this video game-themed film. Perhaps the main reason for 'TRON''s uniqueness is its pioneering use of computer graphics. Primarily set inside a 1980s computer system, the rogue Master Control Program is on a quest for world domination and must be stopped by genius programmer Kevin Flynn and his colleagues. First they must free the security program, TRON, who holds the key to ward off the cancerous proliferation of the evil MCP. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com End of line.
Philip and Bridget discuss 'Inside Out,' directed by Pete Docter and the first of two films released by Pixar Animation Studios in 2015. 'Inside Out' imagines a world inside the human mind. We spend the 95-minute runtime getting to know the world inside the 11-year-old Riley's head. After giving us a look inside the world of anthropomorphic toys, bugs, fish, cars, robots and rats, this film goes as abstract as you can get by identifying five core emotions--Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust, with each given distinct voices and personalities. Riley's family has just moved from Minnesota to San Francisco, and it's a huge adjustment for her. These five emotions must deal with the fallout of one of the most difficult hurdles a child can endure: entering a brand-new middle school. Some articles: https://www.ign.com/articles/2015/11/02/inside-out-director-reveals-emotions-that-almost-made-the-cut https://www.slashfilm.com/537898/inside-out-director-interview/ https://www.mercurynews.com/2015/06/16/director-pete-docter-why-inside-out-almost-didnt-get-made/ Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Alex, Bridget and Philip discuss 2015's 'The Good Dinosaur' from Pixar Animation Studios. This film was the directorial debut of Peter Sohn, and the second Pixar film release of its year following 'Inside Out.' While it underperformed at the box office, it was a stunning technical achievement in combining Pixar stylization with hyper-realistic environments and physics simulations. The film is set in an alternate reality where humans and dinosaurs co-exist and possess similar intelligence. The dinosaur protagonist, Arlo, is the smallest member of his family and struggles to keep up with chores. He eventually gets separated from his father when the two of them attempt to track down a critter who has been stealing their food. Severely lost following a bad thunderstorm, Arlo finds the critter, a human boy, and the two attempt to make their way back to the dinosaurs' farm. Article via SlashFilm: https://www.slashfilm.com/540349/making-of-the-good-dinosaur/ Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/elysiumskyy, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
2022 saw the release of Pixar's 'Lightyear' in theaters in June and on Disney+ in August. For 27 years, audiences of all ages have gotten to know and love the heroic Space Ranger voiced by Tim Allen in the world's first-ever fully computer-animated feature film. Rumors have long floated of a spinoff portraying a human Buzz, describing a fictional universe akin to 'Star Wars' (or 'Trek') that would have been enjoyed by Andy and others in the 'Toy Story' universe. The makers of 'Lightyear' inform the audience via opening text that this was indeed Andy's favorite film as a child. Chris Evans voices a Buzz Lightyear still early in his career as a Ranger. While accompanying a crew of scientists as they explore the galaxy, Buzz makes the choice to investigate a habitable planet along their course called Tikana Prime. The mission goes awry, however, and they become stranded indefinitely. Thankfully there are enough resources to establish a new colony there, but in an effort to repair the ship, Buzz must attempt to charge its fuel crystals by flying close to the speed of light around the sun, making time pass on Tikana much faster than it does for Buzz. Having lost a life lived among his friends and utterly demoralized after a series of failed attempts, Buzz is reinvigorated when a new threat emerges and must rely on an unlikely new team of compatriots to protect the vulnerable colony. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/elysiumskyy, instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Bridget review the latest theatrical film from Dreamworks Animation, 'The Bad Guys' featuring the directorial debut of Pierre Perifel. This comical caper is based on the graphic novel series by Andrew Blabey of the same name, which first saw publication in 2015 and is ongoing as of 2022. The film stars Sam Rockwell as Mr. Wolf or simply "Wolf," who leads a gang of anthropomorphic predators who stage various heists and robberies in a world populated mostly by humans who fear and despise--but are no match for--the Bad Guys. After a high-profile heist goes bust, the gang's ultimate adversary, Governor Diane Foxington, chooses to give them a chance to prove they can change, but are the Bad Guys capable of letting go of their villainous ways? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/bridget5246, instagram.com/elysiumskyy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Alex, and Bridget review the latest season of "Stranger Things," which saw its fourth season debut on Netflix on May 27, 2022. It's 1986, and Will, Eleven, Joyce and Jonathan have moved from Hawkins to California. Eleven has difficulty adapting to the new environment. A new threat has awakened in Hawkins, and the leader of the school Dungeons and Dragons club is implicated in an apparent murder. Dustin, Mike, and Lucas get caught up in the new terror infecting Hawkins and must call upon Eleven to assist. Meanwhile, Joyce discovers Hopper is still alive and travels to Alaska to pay a ransom. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/elysiumskyy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com ǝpᴉs ɹǝɥʇo ǝɥʇ uo noʎ ǝǝs
Jodi, Alex and Philip celebrate the 100th edition of the ThawedCast with a discussion of the musical 'Hamilton,' written, composed by and starring Lin-Manuel Miranda as seen on Disney Plus. This breakout musical and its dynamite cast made history with the show's popularity following its 2015 Broadway debut. The original cast was filmed in June 2016 with an eventual July 3, 2020 release date. This stage depiction of events surrounding the founding of the United States provided a significant surge in subscribers to Disney's new streaming service. Miranda's powerful songwriting and the resounding pathos of his characters create an experience audiences simply couldn't get enough of. Fortunately, this experience is now something viewers can easily enjoy in their own home--a rarity for Broadway musicals. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Alex and Philip review ‘Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers,’ the 2022 live-action/animation hybrid film from Disney. Released straight to Disney+, ‘Rescue Rangers’ features a wide variety of animation styles, an abundance of madcap hijinks, and some brutally incisive commentary on the film industry. The film is the directorial follow-up to the satirical ‘Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping’ by Akiva Schaffer, who re-teams with longtime collaborator Andy Samberg. Samberg voices Dale, with John Mulaney filling the shoes of Chip. In a world where cartoons live alongside humans a la ‘Roger Rabbit,’ the chipmunk duo, as opposed to being voiced and drawn for the “Rescue Rangers” cartoon series on which this film is based, were in fact actors on the show. When a former co-star goes missing, the two of them try to recapture the glory days by heading off to the rescue. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi and Philip discuss the series of nine short films from various Japanese animation studios who were tasked with telling a story set within the 'Star Wars' universe. Entrusted by Lucasfilm with broad creative freedom to explore some of the less-trodden territory of the Galaxy Far Far Away, these projects provide a diverse array of styles and scenarios, though they all deal in some way with the Force and conflicts involving Forceusers. These nine episodes provide a fascinating insight into the influence 'Star Wars' has had on Japanese artists and filmmakers 45 years after the release of the original 'Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope'; a film which in-turn was highly influenced by Eastern mysticism, the samurai ethos, and the films of Akira Kurosawa. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Brother-sister duo Philip and Samara review 'Moon Knight' from Marvel Studios on Disney Plus. The Oscar Isaac-led, six-part series follows Steven Grant, a museum employee and ancient-Egypt enthusiast living in London who suffers from dissociative spells, often finding himself in strange places and perilous situations with no memory of how he got there. Left disturbed by these occurrences, Steven eventually finds himself encountering strange spectral creatures as he attempts to unravel the mystery behind his alter, a mercenary named Marc. Marc no mere mercenary, however. Having sworn allegiance to the Egyptian god Khonshu, Marc has the power to transform into the caped hero Moon Knight, Khonshu’s superpowered human avatar. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/samara_ehlke9, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The 60th feature from Walt Disney Animation, 'Encanto' takes place in mid-20th century Colombia in an enchanted village led by a family who has been blessed with a magical home and miraculous abilities. La Familia Madrigal's matriarch, Abuela Alma was gifted an enchanted candle after overcoming the hardship of fleeing her home and witnessing the death of her husband. Her children and grandchildren possess special abilities, with the exception of Mirabel, who wasn't granted a special gift by the Encanto. Mirabel's importance may be of even greater significance, however, once the family begins to show signs of strain as various factors conspire to sow conflict within the Madrigal household. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi and Philip review and discuss 'The Batman,' the new film starring Robert Pattinson from Warner Bros. and DC Comics. This all-new interpretation of Batman, his rogues gallery and the infamous setting of Gotham City finds wealthy heir Bruce Wayne at the start of his third year of masked vigilantism. His Bat-cave, suit, gadgets, and working relationship with James Gordon are fairly well established, but he still has a long way to go in perfecting his superhero craft. The mysterious "Riddler" is currently at large in connection to a string of high-profile murders, and Batman cleverly employs a newfound ally in the criminal underworld, Selina Kyle a.k.a. "Catwoman," along with his police contacts and come-solving wit in order to unravel the various clues left by the cryptic culprit. In doing so, however, will Batman only inflame the fury of a corrupt Gotham, promoting even greater sympathy for The Riddler's populist cause, before he can obtain the answers he needs? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Alex and Philip discuss the new Pixar film, 'Turning Red,' available now on Disney+. The third major animated Pixar film to be released directly to the streaming service with no premium surcharge, 'Turning Red' has been an object of praise and criticism for tackling themes of adolescence. Any risk of an awkward family viewing experience is greatly superseded, however, by 'Turning Red's' charming characters and signature heartfelt storytelling from Pixar. Mei Lin is a 13-year old living in 2002 Toronto whose family carries an enchanted bloodline allowing the women to transform into a giant red panda upon reaching adulthood. This creates problems at home and at school, altering Mei Lin's promising future along with her most treasured relationships. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Philip discuss 'The Book of Boba Fett,' the seven-part live-action 'Star Wars' series on Disney+, released December 2021. The series picks up where season 2 of 'The Mandalorian' left off, this time following the adventures of former bounty hunter Boba Fett as he ascends within planet Tatooine's organized crime apparatus. The show takes plenty of detours in the form of flashbacks and sidestories spotlighting familiar characters within the 'Star Wars' universe, culminating in a showdown to establish a semblance of law and order on Tatooine. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/hiddenfallsfilm, instagram.com/philipehlke.
Philip and Jodi discuss 'Dune: Part One' from Warner Bros. Pictures and Denis Villeneuve, visionary behind such films as 'Arrival' and 'Blade Runner: 2049'. 'Dune' is based on the 1965 novel by Frank Hebert detailing the life of Prince Paul Atreides of Caladan, who in the far future leaves his home planet with his family, led by his father Duke Leto, for the desert planet Arrakis to oversee the refining of the spice Melange, which enhances this spacefaring civilization's ability to navigate the stars. There is trouble on Arrakis, however, and Paul must carefully navigate a web of galactic intrigue if he hopes to fulfill his potential destiny as the promising young leader he was raised to become. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast, instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke Visit thawedcast.com
The Addams Family takes a vacation in this sequel to 'The Addams Family' (2019), a computer animated take on the long running comic series by Charles Addams. The Addams Family has appeared in various sitcoms and films throughout the years and this latest iteration imagines the iconic family more-or-less as the appear in the classic illustrations. Produced and released by MGM, 'The Addams Family 2' follows the Addamses on an RV trip across the United States after Wednesday's parentage is cast into doubt. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Dawson and Philip review and discuss Stanley Kubrick's 'The Shining' from 1980. A film that has gone on to influence numerous filmmakers and storytellers, 'The Shining' is an adaptation of Stephen King's 1977 novel of the same name. These two creative powerhouses were sure to deliver an enduring film; however King ultimately disapproved of Kubrick's vision for the film. 'The Shining' got mixed reviews upon release, but its iconic performances from Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall, combined with its subtle atmospheric detail and groundbreaking cinematography would quickly ignite a full-blown reevaluation that would secure the film as a canonical classic. For those who have struggled with the isolation of quarantine and an illusory sense of time, this film uniquely captures the danger of settling into the discordant malaise of a late-twentieth century existential nightmare. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/hiddenfallsfilm, instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke, Shadow of the Conqueror: https://youtu.be/dyYJorkY5AQ Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi and Philip discuss 'The Last Unicorn' (1982) from Rankin/Bass Animated Entertainment. Directed by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, the animation was primary completed by Topcraft in Japan, which would later be acquired by Studio Ghibli. A majestic and mysterious unicorn inhabits and enchanted forest, but overhears that she may be the only remaining unicorn. Following a tip from an eccentric butterfly, the unicorn sets out in search of the Red Bull, said to have been responsible for the unicorns' disappearance. The unicorn's journey brings her into contact with an assortment of characters, including companions such as the enigmatic Schmendrick the magician and Molly the forest-dweller. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Alex, Hannah, and Philip discuss the 1970 film 'The Aristocats' from Walt Disney Animation. Centered around a group of cats that are promised a huge inheritance, the cats' future is threatened when the person promised the inheritance after the cats are gone learns of the will. Cartoon hi-jinks ensue as Duchess, Marie, Berlioz, and Toulouse find themselves in the french countryside, but are able to make their way home with the help of Thomas O'Malley the alley cat, who knows the streets of Paris backwards and forward. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Jodi, and Alex review 'Vivo' from Columbia and Sony Pictures Animation, released in the U.S. on Netflix in August 2021. Directed by Kirk DiMicco and co-directed by Brandon Jeffords, this Cuba/Florida travelogue is the brainchild of Lin-Manuel Miranda, who first pitched the idea of a singing monkey--or kinkajou--back in 2010, following the Broadway success of 'In the Heights.' Miranda voices Vivo as well as composes along with long-time collaborator Alex Lacamoire. Vivo is the companion of elderly street musician Andrés, who is unable to travel to Florida to rekindle an old flame. Vivo makes the journey along with Andrés' great niece, Gabi, in order to deliver a piece of music representing the bond that survived the many years of being apart. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Hannah welcome new guest Alex to the ThawedCast to discuss the new film from Pixar, 'Luca,' released in the U.S. exclusively on Disney+ on June 18th. This directorial debut from Enrico Casarosa, who previously made the Pixar short 'La Luna' (2011), follows an Italian shepherd boy who lives with his family under the sea. Unlike classical merpeople, however, these sea monsters become fully human when up on dry land, apart from smelling a bit fishy. Luca meets Alberto, a fellow monster who lives among the humans. Enchanted by the surface world, Luca embarks on increasingly elaborate attempts to assimilate into human society, finding friendship, family, and mischief along the way. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/ayeedeezy, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Hannah, Jodi, and Philip discuss the 1961 Disney film ‘One Hundred and One Dalmatians.’ This was the first feature-length film to use Xerox photocopying to save on animation costs. At the domestic box office it went on to gross around 850 million in today’s dollars, second only to ‘Snow White’ (1937) in this particular ranking (animated domestic grosses, adjusted for inflation). It would inspire several spin-off films and an animated series, and was based on a popular children’s novel by Dodie Smith. The film adheres closely to the novel, which established the iconic look and personality of Cruella De Vil. The film’s unique art style, modern setting and yuppie protagonists were a departure from Disney’s usual classic aesthetic, offering relevant insight on parenting and consumerism. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip is joined by Jodi, Hannah, and newcomer Heather Coy to discuss the new live-action spinoff of an animated Disney film, 'Cruella.' The film explores an alternative take on the classic villain Cruella de Vil from the 1961 classic, 'One Hundred and One Dalmations.' Like 'Maleficent' before it, 'Cruella' revels in the undeniable fascination that this eponymous character instills in viewers, having been prominently featured in several films and shows since the 1961 original and of course immortalized in the hit song bearing her name. This origin story is set in 1970s London and follows "Estella" (Emma Stone) as she goes from petty street thief to major player in the fashion world, rivaling her unwitting boss (Emma Thompson), against whom she holds a secret vendetta. What started as a boon to the struggling Estella's career turns into a perilous game of chess between the iconoclastic duo. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/southernrosecosplay, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip is joined by Hannah, Dawson and Jillian to discuss the 1995 Disney Toon feature 'A Goofy Movie.' This quintessential piece of 90s Disney nostalgia was somewhat buried by other priorities from Disney surrounding its release but managed to find a place in the hearts of millions of fans who admire the film for its heartfelt story and its classic iconography. Goofy and his teenage son Max live ordinary lives in the American heartland but have grown somewhat distant. Goofy's plans for father-son bonding are threatened when Max tries to alter their vacation destination against his father's will. Will Max's schemes cause irreparable harm to not only his relationship with his father, but also to the potential love of his life? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/hiddenfallsfilm, instagram.com/jillianmaejohns, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Jillian join Philip to discuss the new animated film from Sony Pictures Animation and Netflix, 'The Mitchells vs. the Machines.' Originally announced as a theatrical feature under the title 'Connected,' the film examines the pitfalls of modern technology and its impact on a typical Michigan family who embark on a cross-country road trip. Katie Mitchell is an aspiring filmmaker on her way to college who has trouble connecting to her father, who insisted on the trip. En route to California, a rogue AI takes over the world and captures every human except the four Mitchells. Will this mildly dysfunctional family rise to the occasion and save the world? Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/hiddenfallsfilm, instagram.com/jillianmaejohns, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Hannah and Philip discuss 'Zootopia' from Walt Disney Animation Studios. Released in February 2016, this film is a resounding allegory for human sociology whist providing an intriguing criminal caper plot in the tradition of action films like 48 Hrs. and Lethal Weapon. Judy Hopps is the first rabbit police officer to graduate into the Zootopia Police Department. Despite being the top of her class, she has difficulty adjusting from her rural roots into the pressures of the big city. Convinced Zootopia is a place where anyone can be anything, she forges ahead in the face of adversity from criminals and cops alike, befriending an unlikely ally in Nick Wilde the fox, in order to prove herself as an officer. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Philip review and discuss 'Mortal Kombat' from Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema, a new release in theaters and on HBO Max based on the long-running 'Mortal Kombat' video game series. MMA fighter Cole Young is recruited by Jax, a mercenary with the same mysterious tattoo. Soon after the two meet, however, they are hunted by a warrior from the netherworld. Other heroes bearing the Dragon Arcana must unite to ward off this mysterious force that is hunting Earth's champions. All so that they can go on to win the mythical Mortal Kombat and save Earthrealm from destruction. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi and Philip discuss the eighth feature film from Aardman, an animation studio based in Bristol, England. Famous for their signature claymation style, 'Farmageddon' is their latest stop-motion photography project having spent almost two years in front of cameras and is a sequel to 2015's 'Shaun the Sheep Movie.' Shaun the Sheep has enjoyed a healthy career in commercials, TV series and animated shorts, and his second film finds him and his farm gang face-to-face with an extra-terrestrial visitor. The alien, known as "Lu-La" mistakenly lands on Earth after taking her parents' flying saucer on a joyride. She'll need more than a multi-pass to return home, considering both she and her newfound friends are clueless of how to properly fly a spaceship. Released in the U.S. on Netflix, this gorgeous Oscar-nominated sci-fi throwback delights from start to finish. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Godzilla vs. Kong is the fourth entry in the Warner Bros./Legendary Entertainment "MonsterVerse" and features the highly anticipated showdown between Godzilla and King Kong. Directed by Adam Wingard, the film balances its titanic conflict with a human story of mystery and hubris. ThawedCasters Dawson and Philip dive into the fantastical inner-world of monsters as Kong attempts to find a new home, but he must reckon with a freshly agitated Godzilla. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Hannah, Jodi, and Lara review and discuss the 2020 Netflix/Pearl Studios feature 'Over the Moon,' directed by Glen Keane and co-directed by John Kahrs. Fei Fei is a young Chinese girl who experiences dramatic loss at an early age. Her interests in science and mythology intertwine when a sudden wave of grief overcomes her, and she builds a rocket to carry her away from her rapidly changing life. Along with her pet rabbit and a surprise stowaway, Fei Fei journeys to the surface of the moon to find the moon goddess Chang'e. The vibrant kingdom of Lunaria presents its own challenges, however, and Fei Fei struggles to please the goddess whom she had admired all her life. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Hannah and Philip usher in spring with a retrospective on the 2015 short film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, 'Frozen Fever.' A little over a year after 'Frozen' was released, directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, along with many of the 'Frozen' team including Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez, delivered a short follow-up depicting the sisters Elsa and Anna going about their lives as best friends. Elsa is preparing an elaborate birthday celebration for Anna but is coming down with a cold, partly due to exhaustion. Regardless, Elsa is determined to give Anna the perfect birthday. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com.
Dawson, Hannah, and Philip welcome Courtny Schultz onto the podcast to discuss the new release from Walt Disney Animation Studios, 'Raya and the Last Dragon.' Available via purchase on Disney+ and in theaters, 'Raya' is the first Disney animated feature of the 2020s and was directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, with Disney story veterans Paul Briggs and John Ripa credited as co-directors. Raya is the daughter of Chief Benja in the Heart region of the kingdom of Kumandra. This warrior princess must unite the five tribes of Kumandra to defeat the vicious Druun, who turn any human or dragon they touch to stone. To do so, she must locate the rumored last dragon, who has ostensibly been asleep for the past 500 years. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com.
Hidden Falls: instagram.com/hiddenfallsfilm
The Ehlke siblings Philip, Dawson, and Samara talk Studio Ghibli and their latest release 'Earwig and the Witch' (2020) from director Goro Miyazaki, son of acclaimed animator Hayao Miyazaki. This is the first CGI animated film from Studio Ghibli, and it features the young Erica Wigg, a.k.a "Earwig," who becomes the foster child of a witch and her demonic companion. The enterprising Earwig is challenged to adapt to her difficult new surroundings, as it is genuinely uncertain whether her foster parents pose a threat to her or are simply old and disgruntled. This surprisingly apt metaphor for uncomfortable family circumstances also holds the key to Earwig's past: A key with the potential to heal her new home. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com.
Samara Ehlke: instagram.com/samara_ehlke9 The Rootbound Podcast: instagram.com/therootboundpodcast
Philip discusses the 1989 film from writer/director/producer Hayao Miyazaki, 'Kiki's Delivery Service,' based on the 'Mary Poppins'-esque children's novel by Eiko Kadono. Kiki is a witch-in-training who, according to tradition, must go off and prove herself upon turning 13. She takes her trusty cat Jiji, her radio, and her mother's broom to find a city in this fictionalized European setting where she can set up shop. Naturally, getting settled in isn't the easiest thing for an adolescent girl, but luckily this society is accepting of witches and magic, allowing Kiki to start, you guessed it, her very own delivery service. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Hannah and Philip discuss the 2019 epic romance film from Makoto Shinkai and CoMix Wave Films 'Weathering with You.' The film involves two teenagers struggling to survive in Tokyo who experience a streak of good luck once they meet up and start a business. After a chance meeting at McDonald's and later outside a nightclub, Hina, a recently orphaned girl raising her younger brother, and Hodaka, a resourceful runaway, create an online listing for Hina's services as a weather medium. Tokyo is experiencing unprecedented rainfall, and rumors begin to spread of a girl who can make the sun shine on command. Those who understand the nature of this power, however, warn of the dangerous consequences that may ensue. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Philip take a trip back to 2016 with Japanese animated film 'Your Name' from writer/director Makoto Shinkai and CoMix Wave Films. Two high-schoolers from different worlds find themselves mysteriously intertwined as they each experience episodes of missing time, quickly learning that they've been periodically switching bodies for a day at a time. Taki is an artist living in busy Tokyo and Mitsuha is a Shinto ritual performer in rural Japan. While their memories of being in each other's body are vague, they learn a great deal about each other through the notes they leave in their phones. Things take a turn when Taki discovers that Mitsuha lives three years in the past. This complicates any chance the two have of meeting in person, as their connection's strength seems tied to a passing comet in 2013--an event that holds great significance to Mitsuha and her spiritual destiny. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi and Philip review and discuss 2019 animated action film 'Spies in Disguise' from Blue Sky Studios and 20th Century Fox. Inspired by the animated short film "Pigeon: Impossible," this team-up film presents an unlikely duo in super-spy Lance Sterling and quirky inventor Walter Beckett. Walter's genius is matched only by his oddness, which results in Lance being inadvertently transformed into a pigeon. This is not without its advantages, but it's up to Walter to perfect his formula in order to reverse the process as the duo embark on an adventure to stop a global threat. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Dawson revisit an ambitious attempt by Disney Animation to release a non-musical, action-adventure film aimed at older kids and fans of genre fiction. Patterned after classic historical adventure serials, which in turn spawned films like 'Indiana Jones' and 'The Mummy,' 'Atlantis: The Lost Empire' seeks to immerse the viewer in a wondrous, fully-realized ancient world. Milo Thatch is a linguistics and cartography professor who guides a large expedition to the lost continent of Atlantis, now a ruined underground city. Due to ill-fated experiments to weaponize their secret power source, Atlantis is a shadow of its former self, but will this encounter with the outside world help restore this lost civilization? Correction Philip misremembers the Venus de Milo statue as missing her head, when in fact she is only missing her arms. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Hannah, Dawson and Philip review and discuss 'The Emperor's New Groove' from Disney Animation. This fan favorite celebrated its 20th anniversary in December 2020, and its troubled production signaled the end to the heyday of classic Disney animation that experienced a major revival in the 1990s. This wacky fable takes advantage of David Spade's sarcastic brand of humor, which contrasts nicely with John Goodman's good-natured appeal. Add in two delightful antagonists, and this film provides a recipe for 80 minutes of pure fun. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
On Christmas Day, Pixar released their 2nd film of 2020, 'Soul,' on Disney Plus. Written and directed by Pete Docter and Kemp Powers, 'Soul' follows jazz pianist Joe Gardner through a fateful day in which he fulfills his dream of booking a jazz gig with a popular band. Joe then seemingly dies in a fall, but manages to reunite with his comatose body after narrowly escaping the afterlife thanks to some help from the obstinate Soul 22. Things aren't quite the same upon Joe's return, however, but before the cosmic scales can be tipped back into balance, Joe is determined to fulfill his purpose in life--and perhaps teach 22 a valuable lesson along the way. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Philip discuss and review seasons one and two of 'The Mandalorian' on Disney Plus, the first live-action television series set in the 'Star Wars' universe, created by Jon Favreau. The show premiered November 12, 2019 and follows a Mandalorian bounty hunter named Din Djarin, a.k.a. "Mando," who wears the familiar type of armor worn by Boba and Jango Fett from the 'Star Wars' films. After collecting one of the most difficult and lucrative bounties in the galaxy, this formidable hunter pivots to the role of protector of a mysterious child who acts as the key to a whole new series of adventures. Only someone of Mando's skill and courage would have a chance at surviving this journey. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi and Philip discuss the new fantasy feature film from Kilkenny, Ireland-based Cartoon Saloon, 'WolfWalkers' (2020). Set in 1650 Kilkenny, this gorgeous animated feature is a tale of two young girls who become fast friends. One was raised in civilized society and the other was raised alongside wolves. Their worlds clash when the Lord Protector of Kilkenny determines the wolves that inhabit the nearby forest to be a threat and orders the destruction of the forest. Together, the two girls attempt to stave off the coming attack. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi review and discuss the 38th feature film from Dreamworks Animation, released in April 2020 directly to streaming rental in the wake of mandatory theater closures across the US and throughout the world. Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick return as troll-duo Branch and Poppy as the Trolls' world is threatened by the Rock Trolls led by Queen Barb and her Barbarians. 'Trolls World Tour' addresses the struggles of leadership and emphasizes the importance of embracing cultural differences. In order for the various races of musical trolls to fulfill their purpose of creating the best music possible, they must be willing to share their diverse musical legacy among all trolls, and not just a select few. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The ThawedCast: Conversations about Animation welcomes Lara Akal and her tremendous knowledge of the hugely popular 1989 Disney animated film, 'The Little Mermaid.' Hannah, Dawson, and Philip also share their thoughts on this film that marked a significant turning point in animated musicals. Ariel is a mermaid princess disillusioned with undersea life, and the only thing she wants is to experience life on the surface. As her fixation reaches a fever pitch, she is pressured into a dubious deal with a sinister sea witch. The consequences could be dire, but with help from her friends, Ariel is determined to make the enchantment work in her favor. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/laraakal, instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Released 42 years after the original airdate of 'The Star Wars Holiday Special' on CBS, Disney's 'Lego Star Wars Holiday Special' is a whimsical take on the Star Wars saga that imagines the characters Rey, Finn, Poe, Chewie, and their friends celebrating the Wookiee holiday Life Day. Philip, Jodi, and Dawson discuss this 40-minute TV special and whether it holds up as a true Christmas classic. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Dawson, and Hannah discuss the 1992 animated feature, 'FernGully: The Last Rainforest,' an independently produced major motion picture from director/producer team Bill Kroyer and Wayne Young. Distributed by 20th Century Fox, this Disney competitor was praised for its vibrant animation and pro-environmental message. It follows the fairy kingdom of FernGully in the Australian rainforest. The enigmatic heroine Crysta is fascinated with the possibility of meeting humans for the first time, and is thrilled when she accidentally captures the plucky young Zak. The thrill turns to terror when it is discovered that the encroaching humans are destroying FernGully while unleashing an ancient evil in their carelessness. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson, Philip, Jodi, and Hannah review and discuss 'Over the Garden Wall,' a 2014 musical limited series from Cartoon Network. Created by Pat McHale and Katie Krentz, the story originated as an idea McHale conceived in 2004. A veteran of animated shows like 'The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack' and 'Adventure Time,' McHale's concept of a pair of brothers on a journey through 19th-Century Gothic fantasy was realized as a 10-part miniseries, a first for the network. The show won two Primetime Emmys and continues to be a beloved staple of the fall/Halloween season. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, twitter.com/hannahsmart, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The ThawedCast returns to Arendelle as Hannah, Jodi, and Philip discuss the new short film now available on Disney+, "Once Upon a Snowman." Set during the events of 'Frozen' (2013), this 7-minute short from Walt Disney Animation Studios depicts the moment the snowman Olaf comes to life, chronicling the events between the song "Let It Go" and his encounter with Anna and Kristoff the next morning. And if it seems morning comes a bit too quickly, just remember that in a northern country like Arendelle, the nights are much shorter in summer. *Correction: I say 'Finding Dory' when I actually mean 'Finding Nemo' -Philip. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Dawson, and Philip review one of the darkest entries from Walt Disney Animation, 'The Black Cauldron' (1985), a film that had a troubled journey to the big screen. In order to avoid a PG-13 rating, the film was delayed and a substantial amount of completed animation was cut from the film. Despite its dissonant tone and truncated runtime, 'The Black Cauldron' is a spectacular tale of heroism and sorcery, with a charming cast of characters including the brash young Taran and his band of adventurers whom he meets along his journey. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Philip discuss one of the first animated features ever made in Canada, 'Rock & Rule' (1983) from Nelvana. Plagued by its weighty ambitions and difficulty finding a target audience, this high-voltage musical barely saw a theatrical release. It now lives on as a curious relic of the 1980s, filled with nostalgic callbacks to the music of artists as such Lou Reed, Blondie, and Cheap Trick, all of whom appear in the film performing original songs. Set in a fantastical, war-ravaged future, this operatic tale follows an upstart band of four youths, one of whom is courted by a megastar with devious intentions. The remaining members must race to save their band-mate before her life is put into jeopardy. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Jodi, Hannah, and Philip discuss 'The Secret of Nimh,' (1982) the gritty, fantastical adventure film about a mother protecting her young. Director Don Bluth's first feature, this landmark animated film adapts the mind-bending 1971 novel from Robert C. O'Brien about enhanced laboratory rodents. Mrs. Brisby is the widow of one of the escaped test subjects and enjoys simple farm life until her home is threatened. The neighboring lab rats agree to help her out of gratitude to her late husband, but the task comes with some unexpected complications. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi discuss the direct-to-video prequel to 'Anastasia' (1997), 'Bartok the Magnificent' (1999), directed by Don Bluth and Gary Goldman. The film establishes the enigmatic Bartok as a mystical creature whose history dates back well before the rise of the USSR. In a world where talking, street-performing bats (and bears) are nothing too out-of-the-ordinary, the task of rescuing a beloved prince from the mythical Baba Yaga falls to Bartok, whose bravery and wit may just allow him to succeed. The film teaches the importance of perseverance through adversity, and that friends come in the unlikeliest forms. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Animation legend Don Bluth released his 9th film, 'Anastasia,' in 1997. Co-directed by longtime collaborator Gary Goldman, this historical fantasy was the first feature produced by Fox Animation Studios and represents a high point for hand-drawn animated musicals. The film follows the amnesiac Anya a.k.a. Anastasia, a Russian princess who embarks on a journey to reunite with her sole-surviving family member. Nominated for two Academy Awards, 'Anastasia' represents one of the few successful attempts at replicating Disney's success before CGI animation rose to prominence. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Christopher Nolan's latest film, 'Tenet' (2020) is a surreal, sci-fi epic resting on the frame of a traditional espionage thriller. Philip and Dawson review this globetrotting, heist-pulling actioner and attempt to make some sense of the unique time-travel physics that this film introduces. Never one to disappoint on a concept, Nolan once again teams with expert physicists to weave scientific phenomena into high-stakes drama. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson, Jodi and Philip discuss 'Mulan' from Walt Disney Pictures, a Disney+ exclusive in the US. This film comes in a long line of live-action adaptations of popular Disney animated musicals, and this film revisits the events of the 1998 wartime fantasy, albeit with a more serious tone, having shed its "musical" label. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Philip, Jodi and Hannah review and discuss 'Quest for Camelot' (1998) from Warner Bros. Pictures. This animated action-adventure spotlights Kayley, enthusiastic daughter of Sir Lionel, Knight of the Round Table, who is sent on a mission to find Excalibur and protect Camelot from the treacherous Lord Ruber. With the help of the blind warrior Garrett, and two-headed dragon Devon and Cornwall, she hopes to follow in her father's footsteps and become one of King Arthur's fabled knights. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation welcomes Jodi and Hannah back to the podcast as they join Dawson and Philip to discuss Disney's 'Mulan' from 1998. This musical retelling of the famous Chinese poem, "The Ballad of Mulan," spotlights the eponymous heroine's struggle against an aggressive patriarchy, provoking her to secretly join the army while posing as a man. With the help of her ancestral spirit guardian, she may just have what it takes to turn the tide in the war against the invading Huns. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, instagram.com/jodipolasky, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Philip discuss a longtime favorite show of theirs in 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' which ran from 2005-08 on Nickelodeon. The show imagines a vibrant world of mysticism and warfare, in where the four elements of water, earth, fire, and air represent the various cultures that populate it. The central character, Aang, who can "bend" the element air, must realize his destiny as the Avatar with the help of his companions. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Philip review and discuss 'Onward' (2020) from Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Pictures. Directed and conceived by Dan Scanlon ('Monsters University'), 'Onward' imagines a world where magic and technology coexist, populated by an assortment of magical creatures. The film follows elf brothers Ian and Barley on their quest to complete a magical incantation with the power to bring back their deceased father for a single day. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: twitter.com/thawedcast and instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit thawedcast.com
Dawson and Philip bring you their discussion and review of 'Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker', touted as the "End of the Skywalker Saga," from Lucasfilm and Walt Disney Studios, directed by JJ Abrams and co-written by Abrams and Chris Terrio. The brothers bring somewhat conflicting opinions about the film, having gone in with low expectations due to the Sequel Trilogy's seeming lack of vision from start. But depending who you ask, Abrams and Terrio were surprisingly successful in wrapping up the new trilogy--as well as the entire trilogy of Trilogies--in a satisfying way. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, http://instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit http://thawedcast.com
Part 2 of the ThawedCast's discussion on 'Frozen II,' the 58th film from Walt Disney Animation Studios. Jodi, Hannah and Philip dive into the magic of the hit sequel to 2013's 'Frozen.' After a resounding first two weekends in theaters, 'Frozen 2' is on its way to becoming the most successful animated film of all time, and the "Thawed Squad" further elaborates on their feelings toward the film. Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven journey to the northern reaches of Arendelle to unravel a decades-old mystery that could be the key to understanding Elsa's powers. This sequel delivers jaw-dropping visuals and masterful musical moments that demand multiple repeat viewings. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, http://instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit http://thawedcast.com
'Frozen 2' has arrived! Philip, Dawson, Jodi and Hannah share their first impressions in what will be a multi-part excursion into the unknown on the ThawedCast. Beware spoilers as the cast dives into the mystery and intrigue of this more grown-up sequel to 2013's 'Frozen,' directed once again by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee and produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. The cast share their favorite songs and moments, as well as discuss how effectively the new film expands on the familial themes of the original into new areas, such as racial justice and environmentalism. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, http://instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke, http://instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit http://thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi discuss the pivotal 50th film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, 'Tangled' (2010) directed by Byron Howard and Nathan Greno. This modern classic provides an update on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, "Rapunzel". Kidnapped at birth, the enchanted Princess Rapunzel (Mandy Moore) is locked in a tower while her hair's healing powers are used to keep the wicked Mother Gothel (Donna Murphy) young. Rapunzel's tower is discovered by thief Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi) and the two embark on an adventure to see the kingdom. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit http://thawedcast.com
Episode 43 of the ThawedCast brings you Philip and Cara's review and discussion of Pixar Animation's 'Coco' (2017), directed by Lee Unkrich and co-directed by Adrian Molina. Disney/Pixar's 19th feature film, 'Coco' stars a young boy who refuses the family tradition of becoming a shoemaker in favor of a career in music. Forbidden from playing music by his family, Miguel is cursed while attempting to steal a guitar to use during the Día de Muertos festival, leaving him stranded in the Land of the Dead. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/caradeptula, http://instagram.com/philipehlke
Philip Ehlke and Cara Deptula discuss one of the most creative films ever put to screen in their review of 'Spirited Away,' the 2001 Oscar-winning film from Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. This film transports its audience into a world of magic, spirits, and some of the surprisingly mundane--but nonetheless vividly imaginative--undertakings of the spirit realm's residents. Ten-year-old Chihiro is despondent over having to uproot her big-city life. En route to her new home, she and her parents happen upon a mysterious abandoned theme park containing an enchanted bathhouse. Chihiro is suddenly swept into an unimaginable adventure in which the fate of hers and her parents' souls are at stake. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/caradeptula, http://instagram.com/philipehlke
Dawson and Philip review Todd Phillips' 'Joker' from Warner Bros. Pictures and DC Comics. This dark take on the infamous Batman villain, brilliantly portrayed here by Joaquin Phoenix, provides an unseen facet of the Joker in its focus on poverty and mental illness. Arthur Fleck is a bumbling clown-for-hire with a traumatic childhood and a miserable home life. Fleck finds agency in embracing his darkest tendencies while his bitterness consumes him. Sacrificing his humanity for a twisted sense of purpose, the Joker is born. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/philipehlke, http://instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke
The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation ventures back into the magical world of Jim Henson as Philip Ehlke and Cara Deptula review 'Labyrinth' from 1986. The film stars Jennifer Connelly, David Bowie and Brian Henson and is Jim Henson's feature directorial follow-up to 'The Dark Crystal' (1982). This musical fable combines a brilliant soundtrack, puppetry, and animatronics with breakthrough performances, culminating in a true cult classic. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/caradeptula, http://instagram.com/philipehlke
Philip, Jodi and Hannah talk the latest film from DreamWorks Animation, 'Abominable.' Written and directed by Jill Culton and co-directed by Todd Wilderman, the film follows Yi, a girl who finds a yeti hiding on her apartment rooftop. With the help of her friends Peng and Jin, Yi attempts to guide "Everest" back home to the Himalayas, fulfilling a lifelong dream of journeying across China in the process. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, http://instagram.com/philipehlke. Visit http://thawedcast.com
The ThawedCast returns to explore the latest trailer for Disney Animation's 'Frozen II.' Arendelle faces a massive threat from a mysterious force. How do our heroes hope to face down the terror that awaits in the forbidden lands to the north? Will Elsa's power consume her? Will Anna gain powers to help in the fight? Listen as Philip, Dawson, Jodi, and Hannah share their thoughts on the new trailer, plus discussions on D23 Expo and Disney+! Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, http://instagram.com/philipehlke, http://instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke
Episode 37 of the ThawedCast journeys to the mystical world of 'The Dark Crystal' (1982) as Philip Ehlke and Cara Deptula discuss this passion-fueled fantasy epic from Jim Henson. While not as commercially successful as Henson's endeavors concerning Muppets, 'The Dark Crystal' is an intriguing attempt at using the skills and technology of the Muppeteers to tell a story purely through lifelike, intricately cafted characters, creating a truly one-of-a-kind (until 2019's 'The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance') and unforgettable experience. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/caradeptula, http://instagram.com/philipehlke
Episode 36 continues the discussion of The Lion King on the Thawedcast with 2019's remake of the animated classic, directed by Jon Favreau. This lifelike, all-CGI adaptation strays very little from the original and capitalizes heavily on nostalgia, but brings in a few new surprises. Bonus discussions on Cats and Disney remakes. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, http://instagram.com/philipehlke
The ThawedCast returns as Episode 35 welcomes Christopher Witmer to the cast alongside Philip Ehlke, Jodi Polasky, amd Hannah Leigh Smart to discuss the original 'The Lion King' (1994), the 32nd film in the Walt Disney animated canon. Stay tuned for more coverage on the remake, but this episode is all about the culture-defining original that changed the way we thought about African wildlife. The film's protracted production began way back in the late 1980s and went through many iterations before delivering its epic spectacle, borrowing from Shakespeare as well as other nature-themed animated works. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, http://instagram.com/philipehlke, http://instagram.com/christopherwitmer
Philip is joined by Cara Deptula (http://instagram.com/caradeptula) in Episode 34 of the ThawedCast, all about 'Spider-Man: Far From Home.' The final film in Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the film ties up the events of 'Avengers: Endgame' while giving Peter Parker (Tom Holland) a whole new globe-trotting adventure, where he must deal with inheriting the legacy of Tony Stark. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find Philip at http://instagram.com/philipehlke
Philip and Hannah discuss 'Frozen' updates and more on Episode 33 of The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation. New details about the plot of 'Frozen II' were revealed at Annecy Festival in France, shedding light on some of the mysteries from the latest trailer. Also, Disney announces their new Ariel in the live action 'The Little Mermaid,' and Kristen Bell shares her involvement in the writing of 'Frozen II'. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find Hannah at http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter and Philip at http://instagram.com/philipehlke
Strap in for Episode 32 of the ThawedCast, all about 'Toy Story 4' from Pixar Animation Studios. Jodi, Hannah, and Philip provide an overview of the entire film and Dawson returns at the end of the show to share his thoughts with Philip. This is Pixar's 21st film, directed by Josh Cooley and released by Disney. Now that Woody and the gang are no longer with Andy, Woody is faced with a whole new set of challenges that will determine his destiny as a toy. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter, http://instagram.com/philipehlke, http://instagram.com/dawsondelwinehlke
Episode 31 of the ThawedCast features Hannah and Philip’s review of 2019's ‘The Secret Life of Pets 2’ from Illumination and Universal Pictures. The film follows returning characters Max, Duke, Chloe, Gidget, and Snowball on their adventures in New York City and beyond! Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/philipehlke, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter
Enter into a world of enchantment as Jodi and Philip break down the new official trailer for 'Frozen II' from Walt Disney Animation Studios (you can hear our teaser-trailer review on episode 16 of the ThawedCast). Episode 30 of The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation dives into the new plot details revealed in the much more plot-centric (yet somehow shorter) trailer, plus a few additional details from the film's official synopsis. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/philipehlke, http://instagram.com/jodipolasky
Godzilla reigns in Episode 29 of the ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation. Join Philip and Jodi in their review of 'Godzilla: King of the Monsters' (2019) directed by Michael Dougherty. This is the third film in the shared Godzilla and King Kong universe from Warner Bros. and Legendary. The secretive organization Monarch has located 17 giant 'titans' including Godzilla, Mothra, Rodan, and Monster Zero a.k.a. King Ghidorah. Godzilla must confront the rogue Ghidorah to restore balance to the world. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/philipehlke, http://instagram.com/jodipolasky
Guy Ritchie’s ‘Aladdin’ (2019) takes center stage in episode 28 of the ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation. Philip, Jodi, and Hannah review and discuss Disney’s live-action remake of the 31st Walt Disney animated feature, ‘Aladdin’ (see our previous episode). The film stars Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott, Marwan Kenzari and Will Smith as the iconic Genie. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast. Find us at http://instagram.com/philipehlke, http://instagram.com/jodipolasky, http://instagram.com/hannahleigheverafter
Episode 27 of the ThawedCast takes you back to the 1992 animated classic, Disney’s ‘Aladdin’. Having grown up with this perennial favorite, Philip and Jodi review and discuss the film’s many charms, along with providing an overview of the film’s inception. Based on the tale of Aladdin from the Middle Eastern folk-tale compendium, ‘The Arabian Nights,’ the film follows the rags-to-riches journey of a kindhearted thief who befriends a magical genie and attempts to win the heart of a princess. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast: http://twitter.com/thawedcast and http://instagram.com/thawedcast
Philip and Jodi review 'Pokémon: Detective Pikachu' (2019) from Warner Bros. with animation by The Moving Picture Company, whose work in bringing CGI animals to life can be seen in 'The Jungle Book,' 'Fantastic Beasts,' and 'The Lion King.' Based on the 2016 video game of the same name, the story follows Tim (Justice Smith), a former Pokémon enthusiast who journeys to the Pokémon-filled Ryme City to pay respects to his recently deceased father. It is here that a Ryan Reynold-voiced Pikachu enlists Tim to help unravel the mystery of his father's supposed death. Visit www.thawedcast.com, Twitter: http://twitter.com/thawedcast, Instagram: http://instagram.com/thawedcast
Episode 25 of The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation brings you Dawson and Philip's discussion of Marvel Studios' 'Avengers: Endgame' (2019). The world has been ravaged by Thanos. Half the universe's population is dead. The Avengers must do whatever they can to deal with the effects of Thanos' wrath. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow @thawedcast on Instagram and Twitter.
Episode 24 of The ThawedCast features special guest Hannah Leigh Smart (@hannahleigheverafter on Instagram) joining Philip Ehlke for a review and discussion of 2019's 'Missing Link' from Laika. Written and directed by Chris Butler and produced over the course of five years under the working title 'Seeking Shangri-La,' this stop-motion animated film pushes the medium to a new level of lush, colorful, adventurous (if not a bit predictable) storytelling. A lonely Sasquatch (Zach Galifianakis) enlists the help of naturalist Lionel Frost (Hugh Jackman) to help him find a secret Yeti civilization on the other side of the world. Frost's former flame Adelina (Zoe Saldana) holds the map to Shangri-La and joins them on their journey. Visit www.thawedcast.com, @thawedcast on Twitter and Instagram
Dawson and Philip review and discuss the 2019 superhero film 'Shazam!' from Warner Bros. and DC Comics in Episode 23 of The ThawedCast. A charming and refreshing take on the superhero genre, 'Shazam' follows Billy Batson, played by Asher Angel, as he moves in with a new family and grows to befriend his new foster brother Freddy (Jack Dylan Grazer). While attempting to flee bullies, Billy is summoned to the lair of a wizard who then gives Billy the ability to transform into a fully-grown superhero (Zachary Levi) by simply saying "Shazam!" He must use his power to stop the evil Dr. Sivana (Mark Strong) from unleashing the Seven Deadly Sins upon the earth. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow us @thawedcast on Twitter and Instagram
Episode 22 of The ThawedCast brings you a fantasy-filled recap of the second season of Netflix's 'The Dragon Prince,' in which the young heroes Ezran, Rayla and Callum continue their quest to return the dragon newborn Azymondias to his home of Xadia. Along the way they must determine the line between friend and foe, learn the true nature of primal magic, and find which of their possible destinies will best bring peace among the kingdoms. Also, stay tuned for a recap of 'Game of Thrones' Season 8, Episode 1: Winterfell. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation on Twitter and Instagram @thawedcast
Jodi and Philip review Disney's 'Dumbo' from 2019, directed by Tim Burton, in episode 21 of The ThawedCast. The film is a reimagining of the 1941 animated film of the same name about a young elephant whose oversized ears enable him to fly. The film follows the CGI-animated Dumbo from birth to his circus career and beyond, all the while working to heal his and his handlers' broken families. Follow the ThawedCast on Twitter @thawedcast. Visit us at www.thawedcast.com
Episode 20 of The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation brings you Dawson and Philip's review of 2019's 'Alita: Battle Angel,' directed by Robert Rodriguez and written and produced by Hollywood legend James Cameron. The film is based on a Japanese cyberpunk manga series by Yukito Kishiro and follows the newly repaired teenage cyborg Alita as she struggles to regain her memory and find her purpose in the war-torn, post-apocalyptic Iron City. Alita must survive the brutal life of a Hunter-Warrior and compete her way in the deadly sport of Motorball in order to liberate Iron City from its lofty oppressors. Follow the ThawedCast on Twitter @thawedcast. Visit www.thawedcast.com
Philip and Jodi review 'Captain Marvel' in Episode 19 of the ThawedCast! Get excited as Marvel Studios debut their first female-led film in the MCU saga, in which fighter pilot Carol "The Avenger" Danvers, played by Oscar-winning actress Brie Larson, transforms into the ultimate hero who would inspire an entire team of Earth's Mightiest Hero's. The film includes a heartwarming tribute to Stan Lee as well as a much needed and inspiring opportunity for a female hero to take center-stage. Visit www.thawedcast.com. Visit us on Twitter @thawedcast
In Episode 18 of the ThawedCast, Philip and Dawson discuss 2019's 'The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part' from Warner Animation Group. This pop culture reference-heavy film is the sequel to 2014's 'The LEGO Movie' and is directed by Mike Mitchell. Screenwriters Phil Lord and Christopher Miller return to the LEGO universe delivering a sincere, zany, and heartfelt adventure featuring familiar characters from the first film along with colorful new additions to the cast. The film playfully explores themes of sibling rivalry and self-image, recapturing the wonder of imagination that its predecessor conveyed so well. Follow The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation at twitter.com/thawedcast. Visit our website at www.thawedcast.com
Episode 17 brings you Dawson, Jodi, and Philip's review of 'How to Dragon: The Hidden World,' the third film in Dreamworks Animation's 'How to Train Your Dragon' series. The film combines beautiful animation with a colorful, eclectic assortment of characters and provides a dramatic, satisfying conclusion to an epic fantasy trilogy. Plus, what is up with the Hobgobbler? And how did Grimmel take out all the Night Furies, a dragon few Vikings had even seen? Follow @thawedcast and @philipehlke on Twitter. Visit www.thawedcast.com
Wait, what? Welcome to Episode 16, in which Dawson, Jodi and Philip break down the new teaser trailer for 'Frozen 2'! The two-minute teaser from Walt Disney Animation Studios reveals the first footage from 'Frozen 2' (or 'Frozen II') releasing in November. The trailer presents a notably more serious tone than the first film in what could be the darker second chapter in a trilogy, or perhaps a tetralogy in which each chapter represents one of the four seasons. The film sees the return of Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven in a new action-packed adventure with Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee returning to direct. Visit www.thawedcast.com and follow @thawedcast on Twitter.
Episode 15 of the ThawedCast features a film that needs no introduction: 2018 action-comedy 'Incredibles 2,' the 14-years-in-the-making sequel to Pixar's 'The Incredibles.' Dawson and Philip review and discuss this smash-hit of a superhero film and examine its many powerful themes as well as director Brad Bird's commitment to artistic integrity. Also, 2019 Annie Awards and 'Kingdom Hearts 3' talk with the debut of "Frozen Corner"! Follow us on Twitter @thawedcast & @philipehlke. Visit www.thawedcast.com
Episode 14 of the ThawedCast revisits the 2001 animated classic 'Monsters, Inc.' Directed by Pete Docter, this was Pixar's fourth film and first of the 2000s. The film follows the comedic duo Mike Wazowski and James P. "Sully" Sullivan as they go from top employees to accidental fugitives after a young girl manages to sneak into the monster world. The two attempt to secretly return "Boo" to her bedroom using Monsters, Inc.'s patented system of magic doors, but in the process uncover an evil plot to kidnap children. The ThawedCast: Conversations about Animation is created by Philip Ehlke, and co-hosted by Dawson Ehlke and Jodi Polasky. Visit www.thawecast.com
Episode 13 of the ThawedCast sees Dawson, Jodi and Philip review 2013's 'Frozen,' Disney Animation's 53rd feature animated film. Loosely based on 'The Snow Queen' by Hans Christian Andersen, the film is a fairy tale about two sisters who are princesses of Arendelle, a kingdom with similarities to Norway in the early 1800s. Princess Anna must find a way to lift the curse accidentally placed on the kingdom by Queen Elsa, whose magical abilities she had hidden her whole life suddenly come bursting out in an uncontrollable rage. 'Frozen' was written and co-directed by Jennifer Lee and co-directed by Chris Buck. Visit www.ThawedCast.com. Find Philip Ehlke on Twitter @philipehlke
Episode 12 of the ThawedCast welcomes Pretty Princess Parties' Jodi Polasky back to the podcast to review Dreamworks Animation's 'How to Train Your Dragon 2' (2014) directed by Dean DeBlois. Dawson and Philip continue their discussion from the previous episode and draw comparisons between the sequel and its predecessor. 'How to Train Your Dragon 2' significantly builds on the central characters' relationships and sets the stage for the much anticipated third film out in February 2019. Follow Philip Ehlke on Twitter @philipehlke. Visit www.thawedcast.com
Episode 11 of the ThawedCast brings you Dawson and Philip's review of 2010's 'How to Train Your Dragon,' directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, and produced by Bonnie Arnold. Based on the book series of the same name, this Dreamworks animated film tells an epic tale of a tribe of Vikings living in the northern wilderness who are plagued by deadly dragons. The Vikings' hatred of dragons is tested, however, when the young Hiccup captures and befriends an injured dragon, proving that brutality and bloodlust aren't the only way to be a Viking. Visit thawedcast.com. Follow the ThawedCast on Twitter @thawedcast
Mary Poppins returns in the brand new sequel to the 1964 classic 'Mary Poppins'! Disney has brought together a stellar group of artists to recreate the magic in 'Mary Poppins Returns,' set 25 years after the original. The film follows the newest generation of Banks children as they are joined by their father's mystical nanny and the fun-loving lamp-lighter, Jack, through a series of adventures told through song, dance and gorgeous animation. Join Philip Ehlke and Jodi Polasky as they discuss and review the film. Follow Philip @philipehlke on Twitter. Visit www.thawedcast.com
Episode 9 of the ThawedCast, Dawson and Philip review the groundbreaking new animated comic book adaptation, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, produced by 'Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs' and 'The LEGO Movie's' Phil Lord and Chris Miller. The film creates a unique, electrified visual style to capture look of a Marvel comic and combines stellar writing and an amazing soundtrack into one of the most sensational cinematic experiences in years. Visit www.thawedcast.com - follow Philip on Twitter and Instagram @philipehlke and Dawson @dawsondelwinehlke
Episode 8 of the ThawedCast; Dawson and Philip discuss and review the 2004 film, written and directed by Brad Bird, 'The Incredibles'--Pixar's sixth animated film. This film is noteworthy for its balance of action along with comedic elements as well as its exceptional handling of multiple character arcs. It remains one of the best contributions to the superhero genre to date. Follow Philip on Twitter and Instagram @philipehlke and Dawson @dawsondelwinehlke. Visit us at http://thawedcast.com
Episode 7 of The ThawedCast in which Philip Ehlke, Dawson Ehlke and Jodi Polasky of Pretty Princess Parties discuss and review the 57th animated film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Ralph Breaks the Internet. This is the 3rd official Disney animated sequel and the first of which to achieve box office-hit status. Follow Philip on social media @philipehlke and Dawson @dawsondelwinehlke
Episode 6 of The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation. In this special episode, Dawson and Philip are joined by Jodi Polasky of Pretty Princess Parties to talk about (and rank) the Disney Princesses. Visit ThawedCast.com. Follow Philip on Twitter @philipehlke
Episode 5 of The ThawedCast; Dawson and Philip Ehlke discuss Mickey Mouse's 90th Anniversary and the origin of this iconic character. Visit ThawedCast.com, follow @philipehlke on Twitter
Episode 4 of The ThawedCast; Dawson and Philip review and discuss the 2018 animated film from Illumination and Universal, The Grinch, based on the 1957 Dr. Seuss book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Episode 3 of the ThawedCast, where Dawson and Philip talk about the 52nd animated feature from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Wreck-It Ralph--a film that skillfully balances its many Easter eggs and cultural references with its own unique charm and mythos. Find The ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation at: http://thawedcast.com. Email: genresavvypodcast@gmail.com
Episode 2 of the ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation. We discuss the new fantasy series from Wonderstorm and Netflix, The Dragon Prince.; a show that offers a familiar yet fresh take on medieval European high fantasy. Hosted by Dawson and Philip Ehlke. Visit ThawedCast.com
Episode 1 of the ThawedCast: Conversations About Animation. We discuss the new show from Lucasfilm and DisneyXD, Star Wars: Resistance as well as the evolution of modern children's action animated TV. Hosted by Dawson and Philip Ehlke. Visit ThawedCast.com