Cinema Fix: Recent Episodes
Film Geek Radio
Are you a movie addict? Do you get the shakes if you're not at the theater every weekend? Does your spirit long for cinematic enlightenment? If so, don't worry. We're here to help you get your fix.
Join Andrew and Monica every week for the purest discussion and in-depth analysis of the latest mainstream and blockbuster films. Don't want to be spoiled? No problem! Each episode is split into two separate segments. The first is just a 10-minute general discussion letting you know whether or not a movie is worth your hard-earned cash. The second is when they dive deep into spoiler territory and really pick apart what does and doesn't work at both a craft and thematic level. Come on, you know you want it. And the best part is, this drug is legal.
I am Groot! As is the custom whenever a new superhero movie is released, Rod Morrow joins Andrew and Monica to debate its merits. Guardians of the Galaxy introduces audience to a whole new side of the Marvel universe. One thing's for certain -- it does have a lot of comic relief and personality. But is that enough to make it a good movie? The gang debates everything from the villains to the characterization to Marvel's overall plan. Is Thanos a compelling threat yet? What's up with Gamora's motivations? How is the movie clearly aimed towards people who are already familiar with the Marvel universe? And why, oh why, is Howard the Duck here? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:55 - Rod's thoughts on Guardians of the Galaxy
12:38 - Poorly-drawn characters?
21:20 - Ronan and Marvel's choice of villains
26:35 - Lack of world-building (unless you're a comic fan)
33:20 - A good movie, or empty personality?
41:55 - Whether Marvel films are defined by mere anticipation
47:05 - The direction and visual style
49:54 - Do we even need Phase 2?
1:02:46 - Other random thoughts
1:16:44 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica return with spoiler-free thoughts on three of late summer's cinematic offerings. First, they discuss the new film from director John Michael McDonagh, Calvary, which stars Brendan Gleeson as an Irish priest. They then turn their attention to Luc Besson's Lucy and figure out what percentage of your brain should be turned off to enjoy it. And finally, they give some quick thoughts on Marvel's latest superhero installment, Guardians of the Galaxy. Is this movie that will change Andrew's mind about Phase 2, or is it just more of the same? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:10 - General thoughts on Calvary
7:50 - General thoughts on Lucy
12:45 - General thoughts on Guardians of the Galaxy
19:50 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Special guest Charlie Nash stopped by for the second part of our Cinema Fix episode on Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, and the resulting discussion was pretty bananas. As great as the visual effects are, is performance capture technology ever going to feel timeless? Is the film's bleak tone an appropriate one given the ridiculous nature of the property? How does Matt Reeves' direction elevate poor writing? And what is it trying to say about the nature of violence, and do the climactic moments undermine the intended message? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:05 - Charlie's general thoughts
5:52 - Performance capture technology -- how good is it?
20:06 - Characterization (or lack thereof)
23:32 - The opening scene, apes on horseback
26:53 - The gun control message and tone of the violence
30:06 - Koba and Blue Eyes
37:09 - A hypocritical view of violence?
53:06 - Andrew nitpicks a human reaction
58:49 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, the second film in the reboot of the popular franchise. Taking place a decade after the events of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, the film follows Caesar and his civilization of super apes when an encounter with humanity's last survivors leads them down the path to war. Does Matt Reeves' direction make it a film worth seeing? What makes a great summer movie, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:17 - General thoughts on The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
12:23 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Cinema Fix is back! In this episode, Andrew and Monica return after a months-long hiatus to give some quick thoughts on some of the hottest films of the summer. First, Monica gives the lowdown on Maleficent while Andrew reveals his take on Edge of Tomorrow. Then they both discuss X-Men: Days of Future Past, Neighbors, 22 Jump Street, Snowpiercer, and a few more multiplex offerings. Which should you see right away? Which should you avoid? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:15 - Maleficent
6:20 - Edge of Tomorrow
10:48 - X-Men: Days of Future Past
17:58 - Neighbors
22:07 - 22 Jump Street
34:38 - Other movies
37:34 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Just in time for Oscar night, it's the first part of Cinema Fix's look back at the best and worst movies of 2013! In this part, Andrew and Monica count down their Top 10 films of the year, plus some honorable mentions. What made 2013 such a good year for movies? What gems have people overlooked? And is Blue is the Warmest Color really all that great? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:04 - Honorable Mentions
7:10 - Top 10 of 2013
54:38 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
It's been a month since the last Cinema Fix episode, but don't worry! Andrew and Monica are back with a vengeance to discuss over a dozen movies that were released over the holidays. They talk everything from potential Oscar winners to movies that January forgot: Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, Her, American Hustle, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Saving Mr. Banks, 47 Ronin, Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones, Inside Llewyn Davis, August: Osage County, The Legend of Hercules, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit and The Wolf of Wall Street. What's worth seeing? What should you avoid? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:55 - Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues
6:16 - Her
9:35 - American Hustle
15:40 - The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
18:50 - Saving Mr. Banks
23:50 - 47 Ronin
28:04 - Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones
32:40 - Lone Survivor
36:23 - Inside Llewyn Davis
41:28 - August: Osage County
45:35 - The Legend of Hercules
50:42 - Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit
56:40 - The Wolf of Wall Street
1:07:27 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Wake up and smell the desolation! In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss how The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug functions as a standalone film, particularly when compared to the previous movies. Are the additional subplots worthwhile? What’s up with the Ring and the Arkenstone? And how do the Hobbit films differ from the Lord of the Rings movies on a visual level? Tune in for all that and more!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
4:00 - Smaug!
6:45 - Tauriel and additional conflict
11:24 - Ending on a cliffhanger, multiple story arcs
13:25 - The Ring and the Arkenstone
20:45 - The look of the Hobbit films
29:04 - How the movie works on its own
34:03 - Gimli gets a shoutout
35:16 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica both had mixed feelings about the first installment in the Hobbit film series, and they also agree about the second installment. Is it an improvement over its predecessor? Does the new material not taken from the source material feel relevant? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:58 - General thoughts on The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
12:37 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
In this special bonus episode, Andrew and Monica have a casual interview with author, activist and film critic Gareth Higgins about life, movies and his new book, Cinematic States. In the book, Higgins examines American cultural myths through the lens of its movies, going state-by-state throughout the U.S. and exploring what films set in those states reveal. They discuss the process of writing the book, the state of film criticism, the inherent morality of art, the need for non-violent forms of conversation, why The Lone Ranger is the best film of the year, and a lot more!
ABOUT OUR GUEST: Gareth Higgins is an author, speaker, non-profit director, and festival curator. His latest book, Cinematic States, explores American myths through films set in each of the 50 states. He is also a co-host of the podcast The Film Talk, the best film podcast not on Film Geek Radio.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:34 - A conversation with Gareth Higgins
44:40 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Special guest Gareth Higgins, the author of Cinematic States, joins Andrew and Monica to discuss what makes Dallas Buyers Club so much better than it could have been. In what ways is the film restrained? How is it different from films that aim to elicit a cathartic emotional response? What single type of shot reveals that the director knows what he's doing?
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
6:16 - Gareth's overall thoughts on Dallas Buyers Club
8:43 - Staying restrained, avoiding cathartic tears
15:42 - How to tell when a director knows what he's doing
21:10 - Real, gradual change
27:23 - The value of award ceremonies
34:53 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica give some general thoughts on Dallas Buyers Club. The film stars Matthew McConaughey as Ron Woodroof, a man diagnosed with AIDS who decides to fight FDA regulations and smuggle illegal medications into the country. Does it deserve all the acclaim? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:21 - General thoughts on Dallas Buyers Club
9:51 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Are the odds in Catching Fire's favor? In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss the difficulties of adapting a series like the Hunger Games books to the big screen, and how the film industry by its nature ends up undermining the themes of the film. Is Katniss a good feminist figure? Does the film effectively convey the book's critique of the media? Do these films practice what they preach, or are they just another example of Capitol-esque propaganda? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:28 - Katniss as a feminist figure
9:40 - Media critique, performances
13:35 - The ending (or lack thereof)
18:02 - Action direction, playing it safe
23:14 - Creative liberties and the adaptation process
28:50 - No feeling of danger
34:37 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on the second installment of the Hunger Games film adaptations. Does Catching Fire improve upon the first film in any ways? Does it live up to the book? Tune to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
1:55 - Feedback on 12 Years A Slave
6:20 - General thoughts on The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
14:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
It's time for another spoiler-filled talk about a slavery movie, so you know what that means... Craig Lindsey! Craig returns to Cinema Fix to discuss whether 12 Years A Slave is worth the hype. Is it an "important" film? Is McQueen's style too distancing? Does he make suffering too photogenic? Why aren't there more movies about the hierarchy among slaves? Are any of the slave masters "good" or are they all evil? Tune in to find out. Plus, a tangent about twerking.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
6:48 - Craig's general thoughts on 12 Years A Slave, whether it's "important"
12:54 - The appropriate distance from the subject?
19:40 - Racism as institutional and systemic
24:43 - Is William Ford good or bad?
32:49 - The depiction of religion
37:08 - Is there a "proper" way to depict slavery, aesthetically?
54:00 - Alfre Woodard and slave hierarchy; also, twerking
1:06:18 - How it will be remembered
1:10:52 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Sometimes it's hard to figure out the context in which to critique a film that's deemed "important" for whatever reason, but Andrew and Monica do their best. Is Steve McQueen's 12 Years A Slave the great film about slavery we need? Is that even a fair question? Tune in to hear their general thoughts on the film.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:00 - General thoughts on 12 Years A Slave
14:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
For the second part of their Thor: The Dark World review, Andrew and Monica are joined by Rod Morrow to discuss Marvel mythology and whether the film competently expands it. If you thought their Man of Steel discussion got heated, you haven't seen anything yet. Andrew gets snarky, Rod bites back, and Monica just tries to stay out of it. Are the Dark Elves' motives and background adequately explained? Does the Aether makes sense? Has Loki been completely watered-down as a character? Does Thor have an arc, and if so, what is it? Tune to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:19 - Rod's general thoughts on Thor: The Dark World
9:43 - Why is Chris O'Dowd in this movie?
11:53 - The Dark Elves; what is the darkness?
19:30 - The Aether vs. the Tesseract
24:22 - Whether the Aether has a will of its own
32:00 - The Kursed and other questions
37:50 - How characters change
44:53 - Loki and whether he's a fully-formed character
1:02:41 - Unpacking the "twist" at the end
1:07:17 - Humor, the third act
1:19:23 - No political allegory; Thor's arc (or lack thereof)
1:33:12 - Picking and choosing what to complain about
1:42:43 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
The latest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is here! Is Thor: The Dark World a fun superhero romp that builds on the mythology, or just a confusing mess of ideas and plot devices? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on the film. Also: Monica really hates Dutch angles, apparently.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:25 - General thoughts on Thor: The Dark World
15:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss the weighty events of Ender's Game and how well they're communicated in the film. What stuff from the book didn't make the cut? Are the Battle Room sequences effectively portrayed? Does the movie do a good job of getting inside Ender's head? How is Ender different in the film, and is it a good change? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:54 - Lack of weight, unclear passage of time
7:16 - The Mind Game, Ender's psychology, the ending
19:20 - Speaking for the dead
22:05 - Bonzo and the other bullies
29:55 - The Battle Room sequences
34:21 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
After spending 25 years in development hell, the film adaptation of Orson Scott Card's bestselling sci-fi novel Ender's Game is finally in theaters! In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general spoiler-free thoughts on the translation from page to screen. Monica hasn't read the book, but Andrew is a big fan--does that impact how they each responded to the film? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:03 - General thoughts on Ender's Game
13:44 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Cormac McCarthy's work is always bleak and pessimistic, but that's not always a bad thing. Is The Counselor a subversive masterpiece or too distant to be effective? In the second part of their review, Andrew and Monica discuss everything from the depiction of women to whether or not there's political subtext. Is there anything special about how Ridley Scott presents violence? Is the Counselor a symbol of America? And does Andrew's response towards some of the dialogue reveal some unintentional racism? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:46 - Malkina vs. Laura
6:40 - Archetypes, not characters
8:38 - Figuring out the narrative
11:15 - Themes and performances
14:25 - The depiction of Mexico and the drug war
16:16 - McCarthy's prose and whether Andrew is unintentionally racist
21:47 - The depiction of violence
23:25 - Political subtext?
28:00 - Reboot This!
32:15 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Cinema Fix Overdose is back with an extra bonus set of reviews! Monica and Andrew discuss a variety of films both old and new, and offer some recommendations for films that were released on DVD/Blu-Ray during the month of October. Plus, they also get into a small discussion about target demographics and how to treat a film aimed at a group to which you don’t belong. Titles discussed include: The Naked City, Baggage Claim, Instructions Not Included, Rush, The Canyons, Masters of Sex and a whole lot more!
SHOW NOTES:
1:42 - Intro
3:23 - Naked City (buy it)
5:58 - Baggage Claim
12:45 - Instructions Not Included
17:05 - After Tiller
22:20 - Before Sunrise (watch it)
26:43 - The Canyons (buy it)
30:33 - The Rep (watch it)
34:50 - Rush
39:00 - Abuse of Weakness
41:50 - Masters of Sex
45:47 - DVD/Blu-Ray Recommendations
56:40 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
The Counselor is the latest film directed by Ridley Scott, and the first theatrical screenplay written by Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Cormac McCarthy. It also boasts an ensemble cast including Michael Fassbender, Brad Pitt, Penelope Cruz, Cameron Diaz and Javier Bardem. But is it worthy of all the talent involved? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:54 - General thoughts on The Counselor
10:30 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Special guest Charlie Nash stops by to help Monica argue with Andrew about Kimberly Peirce's version of Carrie. Is the film really a total waste of time? How is Carrie different in this version? What are the main themes it's exploring this time? Are the supporting characters better drawn in this version or the original? Tune in to find out. NOTE: There's a lot of talk about the De Palma film, so beware of a few spoilers if you haven't seen it!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
4:06 - Comparisons to Let Me In
11:40 - On remakes in general
14:53 - Carrie as a character
35:48 - Margaret's rape, themes of blood and trauma
43:57 - Supporting characters and their development
1:01:12 - YouTube and Tommy's demise
1:04:09 - Tuxedos!
1:06:42 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
There have now been three screen adaptations of Stephen King's debut novel, Carrie, most notably a 1976 version from director Brian De Palma. The latest one is directed by Kimberly Peirce and stars Chloe Grace Moretz in the role famously performed by Sissy Spacek. How does this version compare? Is it even fair to judge it in light of the De Palma movie? Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
1:47 - Listener feedback/question
4:57 - General thoughts on Carrie
13:15 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica are joined by special guest Kenji Fujishima from In Review Online to discuss how Captain Phillips depicts true events and the degree to which an artist should be judged for how a film touches on (or doesn't touch on) real-life issues. Is Paul Greengrass' approach an objective one? Is not taking the stand actually a stand itself? Does the film fully humanize all of its characters? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:00 - Intro and clip
4:05 - Kenji's thoughts on Captain Phillips
7:36 - Paul Greengrass' style and approach to real events
12:44 - Basic attempts to humanize the pirates
17:20 - Is it biased?
21:40 - The final scene
26:26 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica give some spoiler-free thoughts on Captain Phillips, the new film directed by Paul Greengrass that stars Tom Hanks as a commercial shipping boat captain whose vessel is hijacked. Does it do the real-life story justice? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:46 - General thoughts on Captain Phillips
12:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica analyze the different themes running through Gravity. There's a lot of religious symbolism and rebirth imagery. Does that fit with the primary arc? Is it a movie about hope or coming to terms with death? Is there such a thing as too intense? Tune in to find out. Plus, they pitch some pretty artsy ideas for a sequel in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:20 - Too intense? Not knowing how it will end
5:50 - The primary character arc
9:29 - Themes of rebirth and evolution
13:26 - All alone
15:54 - The guy on the radio
19:38 - Regaining confidence, really intense moments
25:25 - Reboot This!
30:32 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
It's been seven years since Alfonso Cuarón's last film, Children of Men. His new film Gravity follows two astronauts (Sandra Bullock and George Clooney) who find themselves floating in space after a debris storm cuts off their communications and destroys their shuttle. Is it another masterpiece? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:50 - General thoughts on Gravity
13:07 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Prisoners clearly wants to be viewed as a "serious" movie with "serious" performances in order to attract awards attention, but Andrew and Monica aren’t sure it’s deserving of that recognition. In fact, they aren’t really sure they can explain the convoluted plot of the film. In this episode, they break it down and try to figure out the multiples layers on which it’s attempting to function. Is there any political subtext commenting on post-9/11 America? Does the Bob Taylor subplot make any sense at all? And what’s up with all the religious imagery? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:35 - A broadly-painted answer to complex questions
8:36 - Torturing Paul Dano; political subtext?
13:31 - Trying to make sense of the plot
19:42 - The truth about Paul Dano
23:23 - Other random stuff
28:24 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
If there's one thing you should never do, it's kidnap the daughter of Wolverine. In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on Prisoners, the new drama from director Denis Villeneuve starring Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal. This has the look and feel of a prestigious award-worthy drama, but does its quality extend beyond the surface? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:49 - General thoughts on Prisoners
10:58 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
If you thought the third act of the first Insidious was too over-the-top, you might not be ready for Chapter 2. In this episode, Andrew and Monica try to figure out just what exactly is going on. How does Josh’s possession work? Is The Further a time machine, an Inception-style dream machine, or a bit of both? What’s up with all the gender identity issues and ghost psychology? Tune in to find out. Plus, Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:30 - What’s going on with Josh, exactly?
7:22 - Figuring out how The Further works
11:36 - Why haunt Josh?
14:04 - Interacting with ghost psychology
16:53 - Too many unanswered questions
19:50 - The climactic scene
22:17 - Teasing Insidious 3 at the end
27:29 - Is it aware of its own campiness?
29:01 - Reboot This!
33:42 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
James Wan has already released one critically-acclaimed horror film this year in The Conjuring. Now, he's back with the sequel to his 2010 film Insidious. Josh Lambert (Patrick Wilson) isn't acting the same since he returned from The Further--has something evil come back with him? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their general, spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
1:46 - Brief thoughts on Riddick
3:10 - General thoughts on Insidious: Chapter 2
11:46 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Just when you thought Film Geek Radio couldn't get any cooler... we did. This is the first of a monthly series of bonus episodes of Cinema Fix! Are you a true movie addict looking for recommendations on what to check out and what to avoid? Don't worry: Andrew and Monica OD'd on movies so you don't have to. In Cinema Fix Overdose episodes, they'll discuss other movies they've seen over the past 30 days, plus provide some DVD recommendations for the upcoming month. This month, they discuss Face/Off, Day For Night, Mud, The Invader, I Declare War, Purple Rain and more!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
5:00 - Face/Off (watch it)
9:50 - No (watch it)
15:25 - Day For Night (watch it)
17:30 - I Declare War
21:46 - Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (watch it)
31:40 - Drug War
34:09 - Devdas (watch it)
36:18 - Mud (watch it)
40:45 - Purple Rain (watch it)
45:00 - The Invader
48:35 - DVD/Blu-Ray Recommendations
1:00:19 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Ethan Hawke and Selena Gomez star in Getaway, which follows Brent Magna, an ex-racer who is forced to follow the instructions of a mysterious stranger when his wife is kidnapped. He races through the streets of Bulgaria, destroying everything in sight, but is this movie as fun as it sounds? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:15 - Wait, that's not Jon Voight's voice?
4:35 - A Cabin in the Woods-style genre critique?
7:30 - The one shot that has everyone talking
10:13 - Making the viewer complicit; is this some Michael Haneke-style commentary?
17:05 - Selena's story is stupid
20:20 - Ridiculous action and plot stuff
24:20 - The silly ending
28:46 - Reboot This!
35:31 - Show close
Correction: In this episode, Andrew and Monica mistakenly refer to the directors of 21 Jump Street as "Lord and Phillips." They should have said "Lord and Miller."
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Ethan Hawke and Selena Gomez star in Getaway, which follows Brent Magna, an ex-racer who is forced to follow the instructions of a mysterious stranger when his wife is kidnapped. He races through the streets of Bulgaria, destroying everything in sight, but is this movie as fun as it sounds? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:18 - General thoughts on Getaway
11:46 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
You know it's gonna be a good episode when Monica starts dusting off her sociology textbooks. In Part 2 of their discussion on You're Next and The World's End, she and Andrew dive into all the various layers of subtext that exist beneath both films. Is You're Next a critique of the political left? Are Adam Wingard and his filmmaking buddies trying to make a statement about the state of the industry? Is The World's End a critique of Hollywood remake culture? How does it critique free-market capitalism while also celebrating individualism, and how does that get a bit messy when dealing with the topic of alcoholism? Grab a beer, make sure no masked killers are around, and tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:15 - Good kills in You're Next
3:40 - Thoughts on the Final Girl
6:15 - Tone and family dynamics
12:46 - A cast of filmmakers
15:08 - The ending, possible political subtext
21:56 - Weird sex stuff
27:36 - The World's End intro and clip
29:25 - Gary King as symbolic of Hollywood
31:31 - A critique of corporate capitalism, Durkheimian anomie
35:48 - Interpreting the ending
45:06 - Questioning authority in the Cornetto Trilogy
47:46 - The aliens and other miscellaneous things
52:38 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica are doing something new this week--they're giving you two movie discussions instead of one! In this episode, they give their general thoughts on the home invasion horror film You're Next before moving on to the new comedy from Edgar Wright, The World's End. Which of these films is worth your time to see? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:08 - General thoughts on You're Next
12:00 - General thoughts on The World's End
22:58 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Film critic Simon Abrams from RogerEbert.com joins Andrew and Monica to discuss the original Kick-Ass comics and how the film adaptations compare. Does Millar succeed in making a satirical point? Is the film version of Kick-Ass 2 an improvement in any way? What's up with the class warfare allegory? And is Hit Girl an example of a strong female character? Tune in as they try to find the answers to all these questions and much more. Plus, you'll definitely want to hear what Simon pitches for a prequel in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:44 - Simon's overall thoughts on the film and comic
12:58 - Hit Girl trying to be popular
21:30 - Allegory for class warfare
29:50 - Cutting things for the big screen; too safe?
33:40 - Use of music during action to make a point... or not
38:05 - Comparisons with the satire of the first film
42:17 - Differences with the comic: Chris' uncle, Kick-Ass' girlfriend
46:24 - Hit Girl and depictions of "strong" women
53:43 - Reboot This!
57:56 - Comic book recommendations and show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on the sequel to the adaptation of the comic book Kick-Ass, which followed a normal high school student who decides to become a superhero. Is Kick-Ass 2 an effective follow-up? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
13:47 - General thoughts
12:28 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Neill Blomkamp's follow-up to the critically-acclaimed District 9 stars Matt Damon as a working man in the future who decides to take on the wealthiest members of society who live in a space station high above Earth. Does Sharlto Copley make a good villain? Just how exactly does this futuristic government work? And is Matt Damon a hippo or a meerkat? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:09 - General thoughts
11:22 - The character of Kruger
23:45 - Jodie Foster and her plan for a coup
29:14 - How it handles allegory
37:08 - Which animal is Matt Damon?
41:22 - Reboot This!
42:44 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica discuss the racial politics of Hollywood and how an interesting script can sometimes get lost in the execution in their spoiler-filled analysis of 2 Guns. What's up with Paula Patton's character and her decision to do nudity? How is the relationship her character has with Denzel's one of the more tragic in recent memory? And is the movie's depiction of Mexicans offensive or just a symptom or a larger institutional problem? Tune in to find out. Plus, Hollywood would be wise to take note of their ideas for a sequel in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:37 - Awful title
3:48 - Paula Patton, nudity and female characters
8:56 - Denzel's tragic relationship history
11:18 - How the ending betrays its anti-institution themes
15:50 - Supporting actors that chew the scenery
19:49 - The chicken scene
21:43 - Racist against Mexicans?
29:13 - Reboot This!
33:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Spoiler: There are more than two guns in this movie. In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on 2 Guns, a new buddy-cop thriller starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. Is there anything fresh here, or is it just the same thing we've seen a million times before? Is it possible to be both? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:39 - General thoughts
10:09 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
So much of The Wolverine works so well that the parts that don't work well are extra frustrating. In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss what they liked about the film and then break down the problematic third act beat by beat. Why is the opening scene so effective? How come Yukio disappears so much? Why are people suddenly switching loyalties, and just what was the big conspiracy after all? Tune in to find out. Plus, they examine the mid-credits scene and pitch a few sequels in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:22 - The opening scene in Japan
4:45 - Bullet trains
6:50 - The conspiracy
8:35 - Third act issues, the surgery scene
11:54 - Viper and the plan
16:30 - A strange amount of profanity
17:47 - The case of the disappearing Yukio
19:08 - Wolverine's bear buddy
22:45 - Silver Samurai and bone marrow
32:23 - Bone claws
35:25 - Mariko
41:24 - End credits scene
50:58 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on the latest installment in the X-Men film franchise, The Wolverine. Is it better than his last solo outing? Is the PG-13 rating appropriate? And why does this feel so much different from superhero movies like Iron Man 3 and Man of Steel? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:57 - General thoughts
10:28 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Charlie Nash from Avenging Angels and Your Magazine Emerson stops by to discuss The Conjuring. Or rather, he drops in to help Monica explain to Andrew why he's wrong. Are "rules" necessary for this sort of horror film? Do its parallel character threads fully mesh together? And just why is it called The Conjuring anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:10 - Charlie's general thoughts
5:20 - Andrew nitpicks the title
7:38 - James Wan's technical skills
11:00 - The "rules" of the demons
20:09 - The arc of Vera Farmiga's character
22:41 - Strong female characters?
25:29 - The MPAA rating
27:00 - Men don't get haunted
33:00 - Is it a preachy "God" movie?
40:51 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Who needs the Ghostbusters when you've got the Warrens? James Wan's latest horror film The Conjuring is based on a supposedly true story about a real-life haunting and the couple that made a living exorcising demons. Is it as creepy as his previous efforts? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:55 - General thoughts
10:28 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss what makes Pacific Rim such an enjoyable summer movie and what could have been done to make it even better. How does the action direction distract from the flaws of the script? What's the one major plot hole? Could the emotional arcs have contributed to some of the tension? Tune in to find out. Plus, they give their ideas for a prequel, sequel or franchise cross-over!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:16 - Fighting through an avatar
5:05 - Drifting, lack of emotional arcs
12:56 - Is the Raleigh/Mako relationship romantic?
16:04 - Other pilots
17:22 - One major plot hole
21:11 - Overlooking the flaws, action direction
23:47 - Reboot This!
32:17 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
The epic battle between Jaegers and kaiju is finally here! Guillermo del Toro's Pacific Rim is one of the most highly-anticipated films of the year--at least by geeks online--but is it a fitting entry into his filmography? Does this battle for humanity impress, or is it just as exhausting as all the others we've seen this summer? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:23 - General thoughts
15:46 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Monica is angry. Very angry. In this episode, she and Andrew have a passionate debate about the extent to which good intentions can save a movie that in certain respects, yeah, is pretty racist. How does The Lone Ranger attempt to package a non-mainstream message in a mainstream movie? Is Johnny Depp's Tonto really a racist and damaging depiction of Native Americans? Why is cannibalism a dominant motif? And can Hollywood please give Armie Hammer another chance? Plus, Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:49 - Johnny Depp and whether this Tonto is racist
11:38 - Native Americans as "ghosts"--is that offensive?
14:18 - Putting a non-mainstream message in a mainstream movie; whose movie is it?
23:29 - Conflicting philosophies of violence
27:48 - Poor craft
31:11 - Whether scenes were cut
34:51 - Helena Bonham Carter and cannibalism
39:11 - What if it had worked?
44:27 - Armie Hammer and the lack of a modern-day go-to blockbuster hero
50:47 - Ruth Wilson and Barry Pepper
53:44 - Reboot This!
11:39 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Hi-Ho Silver, Away! In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on The Lone Ranger. Armie Hammer and Johnny Depp star as the iconic masked hero and his Native American sidekick, respectively. Has director Gore Versinski made another great popcorn movie in the vein of Pirates of the Caribbean? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:49 - General thoughts
11:39 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica get their degree in the Scare Program at Monsters University! Is Pixar's latest sequel an improvement from their last few offerings? Does it change how one might view Monsters Inc.? And how is it a radical departure from the vast majority of family entertainment? Tune in to find out. Plus, Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:37 - General thoughts
12:12 - Spoilers: The ending
18:30 - Thematically different than most family entertainment
23:57 - College campus bubble
27:32 - Disney and future sequels
33:54 - Reboot This!
39:21 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Rod Morrow from The Black Guy Who Tips joins Andrew and Monica to debate the merits of Man of Steel. How important is it to have character development along with action? What's up with Clark's dad? Is Zack Snyder improving or getting worse? And is this the worst Lois Lane we've ever seen on the big screen? Plus, a tangential conversation about the nature of film criticism, and you won't believe what everyone pitches in this week's edition of Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
6:28 - Impossible White Man movies
9:08 - Rod's thoughts on the film
13:52 - Lots of punching, the climactic moment
18:23 - Clark's development
21:25 - Assuming we know stuff
30:24 - Action "stuff" vs. character
36:37 - 9/11 imagery
40:19 - The problem with invincibility
47:07 - Kevin Costner does dumb stuff
52:00 - Lois Lane and the Daily Planet
58:28 - Michael Shannon as Zod
59:47 - Lots of supporting people
1:04:25 - A conversation on criticism and internet culture
1:14:11 - Reboot This!
1:23:13 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
It's a bird, it's a plane... but is it a good movie? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give some quick spoiler-free thoughts on Zack Snyder's reboot of the Superman film series, Man of Steel. Is this a refreshing new take on the DC superhero? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:16 - General thoughts
12:46 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this segment, Andrew and Monica figure out where This Is The End goes right and wrong. Does the religious stuff work? When is rape humor not offensive? Could they be declaring an end to this type of comedy? Tune in to find out. Plus, as always, Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:04 - General thoughts
12:32 - Rape humor, and when/whether it works
19:56 - On penises and how funny they are
23:00 - References to their previous films
28:02 - Craig Robinson and urine
31:28 - Cameos
33:57 - The ending
34:58 - The stuff about friendship
37:47 - Reboot This!
42:43 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel, James Franco, Jonah Hill, Craig Robinson and Danny McBride are not exactly who you might want to hang out with during the Apocalypse. But that's the set-up for This Is The End, a new comedy directed by writing team Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen. Is this movie rapturously good or 100 minutes of hell? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:30 - General thoughts
13:53 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss the ways in which After Earth is Shyamalawful and Shyamalawesome. How bad are the first 20 minutes? Does Jaden Smith have the potential to surpass his father as an actor? How does the film handle its central theme about fear? Tune in to find out. Plus, as always, they figure out how to make a franchise work in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:39 - The opening 20 minutes
4:46 - The passage of time
6:54 - Holes in the world-building
12:09 - Weird science
16:21 - Fun with animals!
20:17 - Two-dimensional characters
23:35 - The theme of fear
26:54 - Comparisons to another film about one generation guiding another through disaster
28:40 - Jaden's acting, institutional racism
32:40 - The lack of Shyamalan twists
36:10 - Reboot This! and a brief conversation about title cards (or lack thereof)
45:23 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Director M. Night Shyamalan had a string of hits in the late 90s and early part of the millennium, but his last few offerings have been critically reviled. His latest film is After Earth, which stars Will Smith and Jaden Smith as a father and son in the future who crash land on Earth, which is now inhospitable to humans. It's a tale of survival, but were Monica and Andrew able to survive the 100 minutes it took to sit through it? Tune in to hear their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:36 - General thoughts
17:14 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Vroom vroom! In this episode, Andrew and Monica are joined by EDGE Boston's Jake Mulligan to discuss Fast & Furious 6. Jake claims to be a "connoisseur" of the franchise, so does he think this installment lives up to the ridiculous action insanity of Fast Five? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:06 - An explanation
3:09 - Intro and clip
6:47 - General thoughts
8:53 - Sexism, or appropriate?
13:18 - Plot and action
24:15 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica have a lot to say about Star Trek Into Darkness. In what may be their longest discussion of a single film ever, they talk everything from character arcs to political subtext. What's up with the super-blood? Does the film's race-bending really matter that much? Is the depiction of Carol Marcus sexist and offensive? Are all the references to a previous Trek film really necessary? And just wait until you hear Andrew's epic pitch for the plot of the sequel!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:07 - Khan's exposition dump
12:00 - Remaking Wrath of Khan
20:08 - Superblood shortage?
22:20 - Spock's arc, Uhura and other supporting characters
30:35 - Alice Eve and why a two-second shot is a huge problem
46:30 - The problematic racebending of Khan
49:45 - The political subtext about the War on Terror
1:05:31 - The opening scene and the Prime Directive
1:14:42 - Action direction and lens flares
1:20:15 - Reboot This!
1:34:50 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Beam us up! In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on the newest installment of the re-imagined Star Trek series, Star Trek Into Darkness. Does J.J. Abrams' sequel live up to the highly-praised 2009 reboot? After all the secrecy, does the villain pay off? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:58 - General thoughts
18:01 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Hey there, old sport! After an unexpected week-long hiatus, Andrew and Monica are back with a review of Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of The Great Gatsby. This episode isn't split into two parts--there's a brief spoiler-free chat followed by the usual in-depth analysis. Does the film do the novel justice? What's up with the framing device? Is the use of modern music on the soundtrack justified? Tune in to find out. Plus, in Reboot This!, Andrew and Monica do the unthinkable and pitch a sequel to what many people consider the greatest American novel of all time.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:01 - Spoiler-free review
11:15 - Nick and the framing device; is he gay?
16:55 - Luhrmann's visual style
18:15 - Lack of subtlety with symbols
21:21 - The love triangle
24:36 - Gatsby's criminal activities, the ending
29:31 - Dancing, music
34:52 - Fetishization of black culture
37:05 - Reboot This!
43:50 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
You wouldn't like Andrew when he's angry. He really hated Iron Man 3. In this episode, he rants for nearly an hour about everything wrong with the film, while Monica occasionally chimes in to provide perspective. Are the villains compelling? What are the driving themes of the film? Is Pepper developed in a compelling way? Tune in for some passionate thoughts on all these issues and many, many more. And be sure to stick around to hear what ideas they pitch for a remake and a sequel in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:03 - The Mandarin, shifts in tone
11:22 - The leap from regeneration to burning stuff
13:55 - Comparing Iron Man film villains
16:00 - What's up with the equation? What does The Mandarin want with Stark?
18:40 - What does Happy witness?
21:15 - Driving themes (or lack thereof)
25:23 - Differences in suits, trying to keep track of them
31:15 - He's cured! Somehow...
33:40 - Ruining Pepper Potts
43:38 - The post-credits scene
45:42 - Where is Justin Hammer?
49:32 - Reboot This!
56:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Summer blockbuster season is officially here! In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general spoiler-free thoughts on the latest Marvel superhero movie, Iron Man 3. Robert Downey Jr. is back as Tony Stark, who this time finds himself dealing with anxiety attacks and an intimidating new villain known as The Mandarin. After a disappointing second outing, does this recapture the magic of the original? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:47 - General thoughts
14:02 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Oh, Michael Bay. When will you learn? In their breakdown of Pain & Gain, Andrew and Monica discuss just how the filmmaker's worst tendencies weaken a strong idea. Why is The Rock's character the only multi-dimensional one? Why does Michael Bay seem to hate so many people? Does the racism, sexism and homophobia actually work as satire in this situation? Is there a way this script could have been salvaged? Tune in to find out. Plus, asteroids and bodybuilding collide in this week's edition of Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:16 - Things we like
4:16 - The ending vs. the rest of the movie
8:13 - Unexplored ideas, obsession with stereotypes
14:13 - The Christianity of The Rock's character, fat shaming
21:36 - Ed Harris as stock detective
24:21 - The filmmaking aesthetic, looking back at Bay's filmography
33:08 - Reboot This!
37:18 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
There are no Transformers to be found in the latest Michael Bay film, unless we're counting Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Is Pain & Gain a return to form for the action auteur, or just another in a long list of disappointments? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:00 - General thoughts
12:02 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica figure out where Oblivion went right and where it went wrong. How much do great visuals make up for occasional logic gaps? Is there some sort of political or religious allegory lurking beneath the surface? And what's going on with that ending, anyway? Tune in to find out. Plus, they figure out what a sequel might look like as an existentialist meditative drama in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:57 - Tom Cruise! Lots of Tom Cruise!
7:27 - The Jack/Victoria dynamic
9:55 - Olga Kurylenko and space pregnancy
16:33 - Plot holes and vague characterization
18:15 - Political subtext?
20:54 - A surprising yet also puzzling ending
26:04 - Religious stuff, Tet as God
30:01 - Great production design
32:52 - Reboot This!
37:56 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
It's not every day we see an original big-budget sci-fi movie turn up in theaters. In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on Oblivion, the new Tom Cruise vehicle set in a post-apocalyptic future. Is this a step in the right direction? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:13 - General thoughts
13:39 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Let the disagreement begin! Andrew and Fox have wildly differing opinions on 42, so it's up to Monica to find middle ground. How much does historical accuracy matter? Is Harrison Ford's performance Oscar-worthy? To what extent are broad characterizations okay? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:29 - Educational about Robinson?
7:05 - Great supporting performances
9:47 - Impact on individuals
12:20 - Broad characterizations
19:20 - Pacing and structure, goal (or lack thereof)
21:09 - Safe vs. challenging storytelling
24:08 - Is Ford Oscar-worthy?
31:10 - Over-sentimentality
34:56 - Directing the sports scenes
36:42 - Favorite sports movies
39:03 - The character of Wendell Smith
42:52 - Reboot This!
47:36 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Fox from the Geek Scholars Movie News podcast stops by to join Andrew and Monica in discussing the new biopic (or is it?) of Jackie Robinson. In this segment, they give their general spoiler-free thoughts. Is it a formulaic sports movie or an informative and entertaining look at one of America's most important athletes? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:10 - General thoughts
15:19 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
The dead are coming back to life! Oh wait, it's just another remake. In this segment, Andrew and Monica figure out whether the new Evil Dead film is as groovy as it claims to be. Does the infamous "tree rape" scene work well in this version? Does it capture the spirit of the original? Is this new drug element effective? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:04 - Tree rape, possible thematic subtext
9:12 - Difficulties in adapting a classic
11:33 - "I can't believe they did that"
14:08 - Gore effects that were effective
16:34 - Gender swapping and drug subplot
19:17 - The cameo, comic relief
24:00 - The importance of earnest effort
26:07 - Reboot This!
30:20 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
The Evil Dead is a horror classic, but Uruguayan filmmaker Fede Alvarez has helmed a remake that hits the big screen this weekend. It's a dead serious gorefest that has audiences squirming. Does it deserve the acclaim? In this segment, Andrew and Monica give some spoiler-free thoughts on whether this is a fresh take on old material.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:40 - General thoughts
15:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica figure out if The Rock is enough to save any film. In the second film in the G.I. Joe series, he leads a squad of America’s finest soldiers against the evil forces of Cobra that are bent on world domination. Is Retaliation at least better than The Rise of Cobra? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:06 - General thoughts 13:26 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica figure out if The Rock is enough to save any film. In the second film in the G.I. Joe series, he leads a squad of America’s finest soldiers against the evil forces of Cobra that are bent on world domination. Is Retaliation at least better than The Rise of Cobra? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:06 - General thoughts
13:26 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
There's so much going on in Spring Breakers that Andrew and Monica barely know where to begin. In this episode, they turn their attention to several of the themes and ideas Harmony Korine seems to be exploring. Is the film's depiction of blackface racist? What does the film seem to be saying about this generation? Does the ending transform it into a tale of feminist empowerment, or does Korine take his objectification of women too far? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:40 - Exploring the racial elements of the film, lighting to create blackface
12:16 - Cinematography as objectification, comparisons to Funny Games
16:03 - Quickly transitioning to the sinister; the childlike vs. the adult
21:25 - Defined by "stuff," spring break as spiritual
25:38 - Is it making a feminist statement?
34:17 - Pop culture as identity
40:15 - Whether Korine's intent matters
44:40 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Spring Break For-evah! In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on Harmony Korine's latest mindtrip, Spring Breakers. James Franco gives one of his weirdest performances ever and icons of innocence are corrupted in this dreamy tone poem of debauchery. Is it worth checking out, or just a more shocking version of Project X? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:50 - General thoughts
12:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica try to figure out why a movie about magic doesn't seem very magical. How does the movie's approach to directing disrespect the profession? Does the ending work? Andrew also reveals he perhaps likes magic more than he should. Plus, the return of Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
1:58 - Why is Alan Arkin here?
4:50 - A disappointing depiction of magic as an art and profession
10:55 - Explaining how magic tricks are done
14:52 - The funniest scene in the movie
16:25 - The romance, wasting the talents of Steve Buscemi
19:48 - The ending, James Gandolfini and Jim Carrey
26:12 - Reboot This!
31:40 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Steve Carell stars as an arrogant magician who finds himself upstaged by a new up-and-comer in the new comedy The Incredible Burt Wonderstone. It also stars Olivia Wilde, Steve Buscemi and Jim Carrey, so what could go wrong? Well, maybe more than you might think. Tune in to find out what Andrew and Monica thought of the film.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:04 - General thoughts
11:30 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Monica might be away at SXSW, but never fear! We've still got an episode for you. The wonderful Corey Atad drops by to debate the merits of Sam Raimi's pseudo-prequel to The Wizard of Oz. How does it compare to the original? Are its flaws merely the result of poor casting? Are the gender politics sexist? And just how great is China Girl, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:18 - General spoiler-free thoughts
13:34 - Beginning of spoiler section; Oz as both literal place and extension of protagonist's psyche
18:13 - The romance and whether the gender politics are sexist
24:24 - The third act as celebration of cinema
26:12 - Lack of earnestness, a darker tone
34:25 - The legal stuff
37:52 - References to technologically innovative films
39:05 - Raimi's touch
42:29 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
It turns out there's more to discuss about Jack The Giant Slayer than it might first appear. In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free analysis of the movie and try to figure out why it feels tonally inconsistent. Did the film really deserve a PG-13 rating? Does the ending reveal a deeper subtext about monarchy and human nature? Why is Jack so stupid? And what's up with those monks, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:05 - Character development (specifically Elmont)
8:40 - The ridiculous premise that makes no sense
13:17 - Editing in the first act
14:20 - Sexual subtext
16:41 - Debating the MPAA rating; does it deserve a PG-13?
25:00 - Comparing the violence of JTGS to The Lion King and Narnia
29:17 - Trying to figure out which demographic to please
34:28 - Thinking about the film as international product
37:23 - The ending and what the film is trying to say about monarchy/power/human nature
45:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
It's been a long time since director Bryan Singer delivered a great film. In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on his latest effort, Jack the Giant Slayer, which reboots the classic fairy tale into a sorta-violent, kinda-adult-but-not-really fantasy epic. Does it work, or is it just a tonal mess? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:10 - General thoughts
12:20 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Charlie Nash sticks around to really dissect the jumbled mediocrity that is Snitch. The movie is an interesting mess, but it's still messy, so they spend half an hour talking through it. Is Jon Bernthal's character sympathetic at all? What's up with all the prison rape? And why isn't Barry Pepper's facial hair the star of its own movie?! Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:06 - Barry Pepper's facial hair
5:38 - The son and the elephant in the room
13:32 - Jon Bernthal's arc, his climactic moment
18:05 - Grass!
19:34 - The laughable domestic conflict, sexism
24:27 - Susan Sarandon as inhuman politician
27:15 - Lots of coincidences
28:10 - The pacing and whether it works, El Topo
31:22 - What if it took a "Breaking Bad"-style turn?
33:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica are joined by special guest Charlie Nash to discuss Snitch, the new action film (or is it?) starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. First, they give their spoiler-free thoughts on his tale of a trucker who goes undercover into the criminal underworld for the sake of his son. Is it worth your time? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:53 - General thoughts
15:55 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
We love you with all our non-beating hearts, Film Geeks! In this special bonus episode of the show, Andrew and Monica put on their sociology hats and explore the gender politics of a popular sub-sub-genre: supernatural young adult romance book-to-film adaptations. If you're not into that, don't worry. They spend the first 10 minutes of the show giving some overall thoughts on Beautiful Creatures as a movie before comparing its messages about gender to those in Twilight, Warm Bodies and The Hunger Games. What are the "rules" to making a good supernatural teen romance movie? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:49 - General spoiler-free thoughts on Beautiful Creatures
13:00 - Looking at supernatural young adult romance movies; why Twilight is sexist
18:38 - Three dimensional characters and the nature of sacrifice
21:12 - Is Julie in Warm Bodies a manic pixie dream girl?
27:03 - Trying to be feminist vs. actually being feminist
29:55 - The idea of "claiming" and the virgin/whore dichotomy
35:15 - Freudian subtext, emphasizing sexuality vs. the act itself
40:24 - The Hunger Games and Katniss as role model
42:58 - The "rules" for creating a compelling and progressive supernatural teen romance
46:43 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica have their work cut out for them trying to figure out what went wrong with A Good Day To Die Hard. Thankfully, Tim Costa from the First Time Watchers podcast stops by to help them sort through this incomprehensible mess. They go scene-by-scene hoping to discover something, anything, that works. Are they successful? Tune in to this mega-rant to find out.
ABOUT OUR GUEST: Tim Costa is a co-host on the First Time Watchers podcast. Be sure to follow him on Twitter!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:06 - Tim's overall thoughts on the film
4:10 - The opening sequence, McClane's "vacation"
9:05 - The courthouse, father and son
12:31 - The one good scene in the movie
13:40 - The car chase, McClane as murderer
16:53 - The scaffolding scene, references to the original film
22:25 - Parent/child relationships, the movie as marketing
25:08 - They could quit! Father/son bonding through violence
30:00 - The climactic action sequence
38:34 - John Moore's opinions on the decline of masculinity
43:27 - Final thoughts
45:37 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
John McClane is back, but is he better than ever? Andrew and Monica give their general, spoiler-free thoughts on the fifth entry in the Die Hard franchise. This is the first film in the series to take place in another country, but does this fish-out-of-water tale of father/son bonding work at all? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:55 - General thoughts
14:39 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Yippee Ki-Yay, mother-Film Geeks! In this special bonus episode, Andrew is joined by three special guests (Sean O'Connell from Fandango, Witney Seibold from CraveOnline and Tim Costa from First Time Watchers) to discuss the first four entries in the Die Hard franchise. The first one is an action classic, but which of the sequels hold up? What makes a Die Hard movie, anyway? Is the fourth film a decent action movie or a total flop? Tune in to find out.
ABOUT OUR GUESTS:
Sean O’Connell writes for Fandango, Cinema Blend, Movies.com, The Washington Post and numerous other outlets. He’s a weekly contributor to several national radio programs and a longstanding member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA), the Online Film Critics Society (OFCS), the Southeastern Film Critics Association (SEFCA) and the North Carolina Film Critics Association (NCFCA). Check out his reviews on RottenTomatoes and be sure to follow him on Twitter!
Witney Seibold is a columnist for the Film Channel at CraveOnline. He examines popular film franchises in The Series Project and co-host The B-Movies Podcast among other projects. Be sure to follow him on Twitter!
Tim Costa is a co-host of the First Time Watchers podcast. Be sure to follow him on Twitter!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:24 - Die Hard
17:41 - Die Hard 2
32:45 - Die Hard With A Vengeance
49:43 - Live Free or Die Hard
1:02:18 - Final thoughts on the series as a whole, ranking them in order of preference
1:08:17 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Steven Soderbergh says he's retiring and this movie will be his last for the big screen. Does he go out on a high note? Andrew and Monica give their thoughts on the psychological thriller.
NOTE: This episode is not split into the usual two parts. Both spoiler-free and spoiler-filled discussions occur.
SHOW NOTES:
0:06 - What happened to Part 2 of Episode #35
2:31 - Intro and clip
5:32 - General spoiler-free thoughts
9:21 - Spoiler section: Switching perspective
12:06 - Critique of the medical system
13:46 - The issue of intent, the ending
16:28 - Pulling a Hitchcock, playing with genre
23:59 - Editing and cinematography
26:04 - Thoughts on Soderbergh's retirement
29:05 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
It's like Twilight but with zombies! Or is it? Join Andrew and Monica as they give their spoiler-free thoughts on Jonathan Levine's latest film, Warm Bodies. Find out what happens when you mix Shakespeare with the undead! Plus, Monica weighs in on Bullet To The Head.
NOTE: Due to unexpected technical difficulties, there is no Part 2 discussion as mentioned.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:11 - Monica's thoughts on Bullet to the Head
7:08 - Warm Bodies intro and clip
9:09 - General thoughts
20:05 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Let the debate begin! Josh Brunsting from CriterionCast joins Andrew and Monica to discuss what makes Zero Dark Thirty effective (or not). Does the film work as a piece of journalism? Does its depiction of torture warrant the controversy? What does everyone think of Maya as a character? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:00 - Josh's overall thoughts, the cinematography
9:54 - Maya's motivation
15:09 - The film as "cinematic journalism" and movies based on true events
21:48 - The depiction of torture
31:06 - Comparisons with Zodiac, thoughts on the casting
36:00 - The theme of murkiness, how Bigelow makes the audience complicit
39:03 - The final raid sequence
42:34 - The framing of the torture scenes, whether it's manipulative
46:00 - Final thoughts and show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Kathryn Bigelow’s Zero Dark Thirty was Monica’s pick for best film of the year. It’s also received numerous awards and accolades from critics groups around the country. In this episode, Andrew weighs in on whether it deserves the praise.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:41 - General thoughts
14:01 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica finish their look back at the year in film by exploring different genres as well as which movies subverted their expectations. What were the best action movies? Which movies were overrated and underrated? And what were the absolute worst of the worst? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
1:47 - Best Action Films
7:21 - Best Comedy Films
12:20 - Best Horror Films
14:24 - Best Documentary Films
21:00 - Biggest Surprises
26:14 - Biggest Disappointments
30:49 - Most Overrated Films
42:00 - Most Underrated Films
43:31 - Worst Movies
52:10 - Honorable Mentions/Extras
58:50 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
It’s the most epic episode of Cinema Fix yet! In the first half of this two-and-a-half-hour review of last year, Andrew and Monica count down their Top 10 Films of 2012. Which movies made the cut? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:05 - Overall thoughts on this year in cinema
6:05 - Picks for #10
12:48 - Picks for #9
20:32 - Picks for #8
27:32 - Picks for #7
33:04 - Picks for #6
39:25 - Picks for #5
42:22 - Picks for #4
55:53 - Picks for #3
1:05:21 - Picks for #2
1:07:38 - Picks for #1
1:16:17 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, the always thought-provoking Uncle Crizzle (aka Craig Lindsey) stops by to analyze the depiction of race in Django Unchained. Is the movie racist? How does it subvert genres and stereotypes? Does Tarantino's whiteness matter? What's up with Jamie Foxx's penis, and what would Tyler Perry's Django Unchained look like, anyway? Tune in to find out!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:44 - Is it racist? Yes!
8:05 - The skull scene, comparisons with Inglourious Basterds
14:14 - Has Tarantino evolved? How conscious is he of his privilege?
22:08 - Jamie Foxx's penis--reflections on black masculinity and sexuality in film
33:17 - The monogamous husband out for revenge, subverting a "white" subgenre
37:18 - The response on the right; what if Django Unchained had been directed by a black man?
43:35 - Final thoughts on the film
48:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Is Tarantino's latest really off the chain? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give some spoiler-free thoughts on Django Unchained, which stars Jaime Foxx as a slave-turned-bounty-hunter in the Antebellum South. It's part-spaghetti Western and part-blaxploitation film, but it's all Tarantino. How does this compare to the rest of his filmography? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:41 - General thoughts
14:01 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Happy New Year! In this episode, Andrew and Monica look back at two movies that were released over the holidays: This is 40 and Les Miserables. Andrew also gives some brief thoughts on Jack Reacher. Are any of these films worth your time? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:35 - General thoughts on Jack Reacher
8:26 - This is 40 intro and clip
10:24 - Thoughts on This is 40
25:00 - Les Miserables intro and clip
28:12 - Thoughts on Les Mis
47:17 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
It's time to figure out what went wrong. In this episode, Andrew and Monica spend half an hour analyzing The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and discussing the things that work and the things that keep it from being great. How is it similar to The Fellowship of the Ring? Why are there so many references to the other films? And what's up with that Necromancer dude, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:58 - The opening 20 minutes. Why is Frodo here?
6:38 - Radagast, the High Council, The Necromancer
12:25 - Less menace, lower stakes, Azog
16:13 - Comparisons with The Fellowship of the Ring
19:54 - The visual effects: have they improved?
25:10 - The Ring's agency
26:50 - Bilbo's decision to spare Gollum, his overall arc
30:30 - Some final general thoughts
34:03 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica give general spoiler-free thoughts on the first installment of Peter Jackson's Hobbit trilogy, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Does it live up to the Lord of the Rings films? Is it worth seeing in 48fps? And just how good is Monica's Gollum impression? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:08 - General thoughts
17:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica send Anna and Karenin to couples therapy and try to figure out what went wrong. Which does Anna Karenina believe is the more important and powerful idea, love or the institution of marriage? What is the purpose of staging certain scenes like a play? And why makes that Levin dude so cool, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:18 - Whether the "stage" aspect works, what the purpose might be
7:44 - Is Anna a feminist character?
12:25 - Anna's marriage with Karenin
16:50 - Cracking knuckles
18:55 - The Levin/Kitty relationship, a parallel to Anna/Karenin
25:03 - Addiction
26:34 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Director Joe Wright has adapted another 19th century novel, and this time all the rich, pretty people struggling with matters of the heart are in Russia! That’s right, it’s the latest film adaptation of the classic novel by Tolstoy, Anna Karenina. Keira Knightley, Jude Law and Aaron Taylor-Johnson star in this tale of forbidden love and class differences. Is it full of life and passion, or dull and monotonous? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:04 - General thoughts
13:04 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Craig Lindsey analyzes the socio-political subtext of Killing Them Softly with Andrew and Monica. It's a movie about America, but what is it trying to say, exactly? Why cast so many icons of crime cinema? Is Brad Pitt's character the most moral of the bunch? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:39 - A commentary on the recession and American culture
8:41 - The final scene
12:25 - Subverting expectations through casting
18:25 - Killed due to bad PR
19:57 - The cinematography during scenes of violence
23:55 - Cogan's philosophy/morality
32:00 - Final thoughts
34:50 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Film critic Craig Lindsey stops by to discuss Andrew Dominik's latest crime movie. Brad Pitt stars as a mob enforcer sent to clean up after two thugs hold up a gangster's illegal card game. It's failing at the box-office and has divided audiences, but is it worth a look? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:25 - General thoughts
14:55 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
What does it all mean?! In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss the ending of Life of Pi and what the film seems to be saying about religion and spirituality. Is it a profound meditation on faith or just superficial fortune cookie wisdom? Do the visuals serve a thematic purpose? And is there a link between how we view animals and how we view life in general? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:04 - The "white man" framing device
7:05 - Different interpretations of the ending
15:45 - Pi knows the truth!
19:39 - The most unbelievable shot in the film
22:35 - Brief thoughts on the 3D and visuals as linked to theme
25:20 - The scene in which Richard Parker leaves -- is our attitude towards animals at all reflective of our attitude towards religion?
30:16 - Final thoughts on "the point"
35:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Ang Lee’s highly-anticipated film adaptation of the acclaimed novel can now be seen on the big screen, but does it live up to the hype? Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on the visually stunning and potentially divisive movie.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:01 - General thoughts
11:01 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica achieve the impossible and have a philosophical conversation about the last film in the Twilight series. Is the film’s ending a cop-out, or is it actually a progressive statement about war and violence? Does the PG-13 violence undermine the intended (or unintended) message? Why is everything else in the film so terrible, and just how awesome is Michael Sheen? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:00 - General thoughts on the ending and how awful these characters are
7:48 - Vampire Bella, Renesmee, Pedophile Jacob
11:23 - The passage of time, recruiting an army, mutant powers
16:07 - Renesmee’s powers and toddler blood-suckers
19:00 - The awesomeness of Michael Sheen
21:20 - The climactic battle and the film’s attitude towards war/violence
40:02 - Awful dialogue and the final montage
43:07 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Five films, billions of dollars and millions of screaming teens and mothers later, the Twilight series is finally over. Join Andrew and Monica as they give their spoiler-free thoughts on the final installment on the beloved (and much-maligned) series.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:52 - General thoughts
15:23 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this special bonus episode of the show, Andrew and Monica spend nearly an hour trying to unravel the mysteries of Cloud Atlas. Is this sci-fi epic a revolutionary piece of cinema or just a flawed experiment? They discuss everything from the film's casting to how its philosophy is different from that of The Matrix. Does the film seem to think that mankind is capable of great change, or are we just doomed to repeat the same mistakes? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
5:16 - Quick spoiler-free thoughts
10:13 - Which of the stories is the best?
18:48 - The music
21:00 - Casting, birthmarks and the primary theme of the film
29:15 - The last scene and whether the film is ultimately pessimistic
35:36 - Futuristic forms of oppression (or lack thereof)
38:08 - Comparing the Christ-figures of Cloud Atlas with those of The Matrix
45:00 - Mexican Doona Bae, Timothy Cavendish and other lingering thoughts and questions
52:25 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Just when you thought Bond continuity was too convoluted to figure out, Cinema Fix is here to make it all clear! Or... not. Witney Seibold from CraveOnline joins Andrew and Monica to discuss Skyfall and analyze its place in the Bond series as a whole. What is the thematic function of the third act? Is there any sort of continuity in the series before 2006? What's up with Javier Bardem's gay villain? Is the series coming full circle or just setting itself up to repeat old mistakes? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:03 - Bond as a cyclical franchise constantly rebooting itself
13:57 - Whether James Bond should be a complex character; is he evolving?
18:52 - Bond as sadistic murderer vs. conflicted person
25:05 - Is there Bond "canon" or formula? What can't be changed?
29:37 - Bond's relationship with M, Skyfall as origin story
36:22 - Awkward elements of the third act
43:18 - Similarities with Nolan's Batman films
45:35 - Bond's parents, the theory that "James Bond" is a code name
49:12 - Referencing other films, Moneypenny and a new M
56:23 - Silva and the presentation of homosexuality in Bond films
1:02:07 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
James Bond is back! Witney Seibold from CraveOnline joins Andrew and Monica to discuss the twenty-third "official" film in the franchise. This episode contains their general, spoiler-free thoughts on the movie. Is Craig's third outing as the iconic character as memorable as Casino Royale, or more like Quantum of Solace? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
6:24 - General thoughts
13:42 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica debate the merits of Argo, which leads to a more general discussion on films that are "based on a true story." To what extent is accuracy important? Is the director obligated to look at the "big picture?" Also, cars chasing planes are kinda dumb. Tune in for all that and more.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:28 - The depiction of the government
5:35 - The (in)accuracy of Argo
8:18 - Comparing Argo to The Passion of the Christ
14:28 - Does it matter if a movie isn't historically accurate? Argo vs. The Social Network
17:54 - A movie that celebrates Hollywood lies and is itself a lie
22:53 - What's the point? Does there need to be one?
31:34 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Ben Affleck’s latest directorial effort is receiving lots of praise from critics, but does it live up to the hype? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general spoiler-free thoughts on the film.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:17 - General thoughts
13:42 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Get ready to get pitch-slapped! Andrew and Monica arguably go a bit too far in their spoiler-filled analysis of Pitch Perfect, tackling everything from the marketing to its presentation of obesity and gender. Are films like this just a corporate cash-grab? How is Rebel Wilson different from Melissa McCarthy? And what’s up with all the John Hughes love in movies lately? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:14 - A battle of the sexes 6:05 - Controlling the group’s sexuality, feminism, etc. 8:36 - A corporate cash-grab? 12:29 - Similarities with Bridesmaids, the gross-out comedy 15:50 - Comparing Rebel Wilson’s presentation of overweight characters to that of Melissa McCarthy 22:53 - Yet another movie that loves John Hughes 26:58 - Awkward jokes about race and homosexuality 29:58 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Bridesmaids was a big hit. So was Glee. Why not mix the two together? That seems to be the reasoning behind Pitch Perfect, a musical-comedy about a competitive a cappella group. It wants to like Glee but for college students, but is there really that much of a difference? How are the musical arrangements? And will Anna Kendrick ever not be awesome? Tune in to find out if this movie is aca-mazing or just tone deaf.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:17 - General thoughts 12:39 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica try to solve the mysteries of Looper. What is it trying to say about violence? Is it a critique of mainstream Hollywood entertainment? Can true love and money really save you from a life of crime? And what's up with Kid Blue? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:15 - What is this film really about? 6:24 - A Cabin In The Woods-esque critic of pop culture? 12:30 - The use of primitive weapons 14:45 - The contrast between the presentation of violence around Joe versus that around Old Joe 19:25 - Nature vs. nurture; does Cid grow up to become the Rainmaker? 26:18 - True love and money can't save you from the cycle of violence 32:01 - Reactions to the ending, film as a visual drug 35:00 - The character of Kid Blue, violence as masculine rite of passage 40:12 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Is it possible to cheat death if you know it's coming? Find out as Andrew and Monica discuss Rian Johnson's time-travel thriller Looper, which stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as an assassin assigned to kill his future self. Does this highly-anticipated film from the director of Brick live up to the hype?
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 5:27 - General thoughts 18:40 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Monica bring out the big guns in their dissection of End of Watch. Is the film a critique of the police force? What’s up with its depiction of race? And how is it similar to Cowboys & Aliens? Tune in to find out. Contains spoilers.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro 4:27 - Unnecessary scenes 7:54 - A critique of the police force? 15:40 - The depiction of race 23:21 - The attitude of the other cops; are they really one big happy family? 31:45 - The positives 33:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Monica bring the Jake Gyllenhaal-starring End of Watch in for questioning. This cop film from the writer of Training Day markets itself as a found-footage film, but is that really the case? Does the aesthetic help or hurt the drama? This episode is spoiler-free, and also contains brief thoughts on Trouble With The Curve and Dredd 3D.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro 1:37 - Thoughts on Trouble With The Curve 5:30 - Thoughts on Dredd 3D 7:40 - Intro to End of Watch and clip 9:46 - General thoughts on End of Watch 18:40 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Cinema Fix is back! In this episode, Andrew explains why the show went on unexpected hiatus and gives the details on its return. He then plays an episode of the show that was recorded months ago but never released for various reasons. Monica Castillo guest hosts to discuss the Joss Whedon-produced horror film The Cabin In The Woods, which is released on DVD and Blu-Ray this week. What's up with this weird movie? What's it trying to say about human nature, religion and violence in entertainment? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro; the future of Cinema Fix 5:22 - Part 1 intro and clip 9:06 - General thoughts 18:32 - Part 2 intro and clip 20:31 - The opening scene, and the big twist 24:20 - The religious subtext 28:27 - A critique of violence in entertainment; Funny Games but fun? 33:34 - "Choosing your fate" - the punishment isn't equal to the offense 35:21 - The cameo at the end, and what it means 41:17 - Why are the only people left the Virgin and the Fool? 45:02 - A movie about making movies 47:05 - Reboot This! 53:02 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In preparation for The Avengers, Andrew and Frank are examining a few of the major superheroes who will be involved. First up: Iron Man. What does this film series have to say about the nature of power? How is Tony Stark representative of America? Should anybody own Iron Man technology?
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro 4:09 - The irony of America and the idea of an "ultimate weapon" 7:30 - Are there such things as the "right hands"? 11:20 - Comparisons with Thor, the power of the individual vs. institutions 18:54 - At what point do these heroes become too powerful? 20:54 - Can a blockbuster like The Avengers make a radical statement about violence? 23:29 - Closing thoughts 27:30 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew has read The Hunger Games. Frank has not. How did that impact their reaction to the film? Does it live up to the spirit of the book? Are our hosts Team Peeta or Team Gale? And why can't Gary Ross use a damn tripod, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:47 - Comparisons with the book; betraying the book's view of violence in the media? 8:45 - Peeta, Rue and rebellion 12:09 - Healthy eating, unexplained motivations 20:45 - Produced with a franchise in mind 22:36 - Gale and Peeta's dye job 25:22 - Giant dogs, the PG-13 rating, protecting loved ones 30:00 - Reboot This! 39:30 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Frank tackle the film adaptation of the bestselling young adult novel The Hunger Games. Twenty-four tributes. One fight to the death. Are the odds in its favor? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 5:14 - General thoughts 16:28 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank have gotten old. In this episode, they discuss why Project X is irresponsible filmmaking at its worst, and how it sets Western culture back a few decades. At what point should consequences matter? How obligated are the filmmakers to promote healthy values? And when will you get off Andrew and Frank's lawn?
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:24 - Ethically unsettling compared to other "party movies" 11:35 - "Real" events with no real consequences, what we see vs. what we don't see 16:00 - A single change that could have made it a brilliant film 21:00 - In the shadow of Occupy 24:10 - Offensive, backwards humor 20:55 - Unique imagery, or just standard superhero visuals? 25:22 - Disliking a film for its messages 29:06 - The quest for sex 30:35 - Fantasy masked as reality, supermodel teens 34:35 - Reboot This! 43:16 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank give their general impression of the Todd Phillips-produced Project X. Is this party a winner, or just plain lame? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 4:55 - General thoughts 14:54 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank analyze what does and doesn't work about Wanderlust. What's up with all the free love stuff? What is the film trying to say modern Western civilization? And just how much penis flashing is too much penis flashing? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 5:38 - Free love confusion 10:45 - Comparing Paul Rudd's character with his brother 11:49 - Paul Rudd's improvisation 12:32 - Supporting characters 17:25 - The use of nudity for comedy 20:19 - Ken Marino's character; working for a jerk isn't so bad 22:15 - No clear message 29:43 - Reboot This! 34:39 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Frank give their general impression of the David Wain-directed comedy Wanderlust. Is this comedy about a disgruntled New York couple going to live in a commune worth your time? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 4:35 - General thoughts 13:33 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this special bonus post-Oscars episode of Cinema Fix, Andrew calls up three special guests to talk about the 84th Academy Awards. First up, Jett Loe from The Film Talk explores demographics and how the Academy is a reflection of larger industry trends. Then, Bad Fever director Dustin Guy Defa gives the perspective of a low-budget independent filmmaker on how much these fancy shmancy awards really matter. And finally, author and pop culture expert Robert J. Thompson comes on to talk about the Oscars' place in history and the growing artistic merits of television.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro 5:57 - Interview with Jett Loe 26:31 - Interview with Dustin Guy Defa 9:42 - Interview with Robert J. Thompson 43:05 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew might have to give up his critic card. Critics everywhere are calling Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance a worthless piece of garbage, but is it as bad as that? Tune in as Andrew defends the film (or at least, the filmmakers) and points out signs of creativity. Plus, our hosts unveil a new show segment.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 5:57 - Frank's favorite scene 7:48 - So bad it's good? 9:42 - Elements of the Neveldine/Taylor style; peeing fire and Twinkies 16:22 - A callback to the Wicker Man remake? 19:09 - The Blackout makeup design 20:55 - Unique imagery, or just standard superhero visuals? 22:38 - Disregarding the backstory of the first film; plot inconsistencies 29:52 - Blackout's love life, the action sequences 35:29 - Reboot This! 43:05 - Show close 45:41 - More Ghost Rider sequel ideas
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Frank and Andrew tackle the sequel to Ghost Rider. Do Crank filmmakers Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor inject any life into the proceedings at all? Is Nicolas Cage just as crazy as we've come to expect? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
3:35 - Intro and clip 4:54 - General thoughts 14:54 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Just how much is there to say about a mediocre spy action flick? Quite a bit, it turns out. Tune in as Andrew and Frank discuss what the filmmakers might have been aiming for (or not). What is the film's primary message? Is its cynical refreshing or just depressing? Is the protagonist in danger of losing his soul?
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:09 - Institutions as inherently corrupt 8:53 - The second safe house, the government pawn 12:37 - Action scene flaws, logic gaps and supermen 16:09 - The protagonist's character arc; is he becoming corrupted or not? 24:56 - The romance; what does it reveal about his character? 31:51 - The relationship with Tobin Frost, the ending 39:00 - Plot holes 40:30 - The death of a (sort of) key character 42:46 - Lots of punching and gratuitous corpse shooting 44:35 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Our hosts talk the new film starring Ryan Reynolds and Denzel Washington. Is this spy thriller an effective cat-and-mouse game, or just a bore? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 4:54 - General thoughts 12:03 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Frank discuss the thematic threads running through Chronicle. Why does Matt keep quoting philosophers like Schopenhauer and Plato? Is the choice to make it a found-footage film an appropriate one? What is Josh Trank trying to say about the nature of art? All this and more.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:43 - Becoming your parents 6:09 - Schopenhauer and the concept of will 10:55 - The camera as social buffer, art as inherently selfish 22:22 - Plato’s allegory of the cave 24:24 - Film as unfulfilled desire 27:15 - A political message? 31:20 - The handling of high school stereotypes, cinematography 35:00 - The nosebleeds 40:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank give their general thoughts the feature directorial debut of Josh Trank. A found-footage movie about superpowers? Can that work, or does the film fail to follow the rules of successful mockumentary films? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 4:00 - General thoughts 13:06 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank discuss the existential questions posed by The Grey. In this world, does God exist? How should we interpret the ending? Is this really an allegory for coping with loss, and if so, what is its ultimate message? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 1:24 - In the universe of The Grey, does God exist? 6:03 - An allegory for grief 14:12 - Is the ending too ambiguous? 21:20 - The trailer and why it sucks 24:22 - Favorite death scene 29:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Frank give their general thoughts on the new film from Joe Carnahan, The Grey. The film stars Liam Neeson as an oil rig security agent who is forced to survive in the Alaskan wilderness after a plane crash. Do he and his fellow survivors stand a chance against a pack of wolves? Is Neeson still the king of January action? And just what kind of movie is this, anyway, with all its talk of God and existentialism?
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:48 - General thoughts 12:28 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Frank discuss the stylistic choices made by Soderbergh in Haywire. Is the non-linear structure necessary? Is the cinematography dull or inventive? And what's the big deal about that car chase? Tune in to find out the answers to these questions and more.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:20 - The non-linear structure and character of Scott 9:18 - Cinematography 10:51 - An analysis of the car chase 14:41 - A responsible, maternal heroine 18:16 - The climactic fight 23:32 - The link between female sensuality and death 25:35 - The relationship between Mallory and her father 27:50 - The final scene; what happened to the other woman? 30:28 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank briefly discuss some films they saw over the break, and then they dive into the new action thriller from Steven Soderbergh, Haywire. Does MMA star Gina Carano have any acting chops? Does Soderbergh bring any interesting elements to a familiar plot? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro 1:35 - Brief thoughts on Tintin, War Horse, Young Adult, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, Beauty and the Beast 3D, Pina, Shame and Hugo 8:28 - Haywire intro and clip 10:47 - General thoughts 12:38 - Thoughts on Gina Carano 17:16 - The plot 19:52 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew and Frank rip apart the ludicrous developments of Twilight: Breaking Dawn, Part 1. Is Bella and Edward's "sexy time" even slightly erotic? Just how creepy is Jacob's new obsession? And what's up with werewolf telepathy, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:04 - The honeymoon segment and what Twilight says about women 7:56 - Tolerable characters/actors 10:40 - The pregnancy and abortion politics 17:55 - Wolf telepathy and over-the-top ridiculousness 22:14 - Saving all the action for later 26:43 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In the first part of their discussion on the first part of the fourth part of the series, Andrew and Frank give their general impressions on the latest Twilight film. Is there any pleasure to be found in this installment? Is the series getting better or worse? And is it true that being under the influence of alcohol makes it more bearable? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 4:32 - General thoughts 23:03 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank give their spoiler-filled analysis of Immortals. How much can visually stunning cinematography compensate for a poor story? Are there any interesting characters in this film at all? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:46 - The Virgin Oracle 9:18 - Hyperion's desire for biological world domination 12:11 - Are the visuals too gaudy? 23:53 - That "heavenly war" image from the trailer 25:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank give their general thoughts on the new Greek epic from Tarsem. Is this just another travesty like the last year's Clash of the Titans, or is it a fresh take on old archetypes? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:17 - General thoughts 13:17 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank analyze the broad humor and story beats of the stoner comedy. Also, waffles. Spoilers included.
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank give their spoiler-free thoughts on the latest entry in the Harold and Kumar series. Will this stoner comedy get you high, or is it just a bad trip? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 4:56 - General thoughts 16:30 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank discuss the other issues brought up in Andrew Niccol's latest sci-fi film. What if technical problems end up killing people? Why is there no middle class? And how exactly has sex and dating changed in this society? You know, the important questions.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:06 - The ending and the Timekeeper 6:35 - The motivation (or lack thereof) 12:07 - The political subtext 22:35 - Other questions raised (like sex!) 29:47 - The ending 32:55 - More questions about how this society works 44:04 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank discuss the latest sci-fi thriller from Gattaca director Andrew Niccol. Does this film about a futuristic society in which time is literally money make any sense? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:43 - General thoughts 13:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and special guest Chris Baker dive deep into the psychology and logic (or lack thereof) of The Thing. Why does the alien act the way it does? Are these normal human beings? How well does it tie together with the 1982 version? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:19 - Unnatural reactions to events 5:30 - Thing psychology 10:18 - Weird spaceship technology 13:25 - Blood test and similar plot beats 17:35 - Unscientific behavior 19:13 - Connecting it to the 1983 film (or not) 33:00 - Other random problems 36:45 - Who would you mimic? 15:38 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this episode, Andrew is joined by Wait Wait Don't Eat Me! host Christ Baker to discuss the new version of The Thing. Is this prequel of a remake of an adaptation of a short story any good, or does it feel phony? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:33 - General thoughts 13:17 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Is it possible to be a politician and maintain your integrity? Is everybody hiding something? And what’s up with the cinematography? Andrew and Frank discuss these questions and more in the spoiler-filled second part of their discussion on George Clooney’s The Ides of March.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:22 - Winning vs. integrity, the character of Paul 12:25 - Molly, the victim 14:19 - The ending 22:02 - The most memorable scenes 25:41 - The cinematography of a certain scene; good choice or problematic? 27:58 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank give their spoiler-free general thoughts on the new political thriller directed by George Clooney. Is this a movie that's worth your vote? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:33 - General thoughts 15:38 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In the second part of their 50/50 discussion, Andrew and Frank discuss the details of characterization, finding the right tone, and whether or not a lack of realism is a bad thing. Spoilers included.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro 2:30 - The relationship with his girlfriend 7:51 - The relationship with his therapist 11:19 - Too easy? Not enough nuance? 14:16 - Comparisons with Funny People 19:27 - The ending 23:44 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Andrew and Frank give their general impressions of the new film starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt film, 50/50. Does this "cancer comedy" manage to find a good balance between drama and laughs? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 4:23 - General thoughts 15:47 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In the second part of their Moneyball discussion, Andrew and Frank discuss the structure and themes of the film. What is the point? Does it even have one? Is it just as formulaic as other sports films or is it a fantastic new entry to the genre? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:44 - The characterization of Billy Beane 11:13 - Moneyball vs. the human factor; characterization 15:10 - Hitting certain structural "beats" 19:55 - One man vs. the system, the ultimate message of the film 21:25 - Political subtext? 27:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In this spoiler-free episode, Andrew and Frank give their general thoughts on the new film Moneyball. Is this film about Oakland A's manager Billy Beane and his attempts to change how players are drafted a typical sports film, or something more? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 3:31 - General thoughts 13:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In the second part of their Drive episode, Andrew and Frank dive deep into the themes and craft of the film. How can viewers interpret the ending? Is Refn's presentation of violence appropriate? And what's up with that soundtrack? They answer all this and more in their spoiler-filled analysis.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 2:33 - Music (including clip) and a 70s/80s vibe 6:24 - Presentation of violence 11:28 - The elevator scene, the romance, and the morality of the protagonist 16:34 - Shaking hands with the devil 20:20 - Interpretations of the ending
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
In the first regularly-formatted episode of Cinema Fix, it becomes apparent the show might already be cursed. Plus, Andrew is joined by Frank Ready to talk about the new Ryan Gosling-starring crime thriller, Drive. Is director Nicolas Winding Refn's first foray into mainstream theaters a success? This is the first part of the episode, in which they give their general thoughts on the film and keep things spoiler-free.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip 4:37 - General thoughts 7:13 - Ryan Gosling's performance 12:11 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
Welcome to Cinema Fix! Before you can get your weekly dose of film discussion to satisfy your cinema addiction, you need to meet your dealers. In this episode, Andrew and Storm go over the mission of Film Geek Radio and lay out the details of the show, who they are, and what you can expect. Hang on to your butts. It's going to be a crazy trip!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Info on Film Geek Radio 1:16 - Cinema Fix's focus and format 6:19 - Info on Andrew and Storm 11:55 - How to access the show and contact us 15:30 - Next week on the show
DON'T FORGET: You can contact us by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!