Looking California and Feeling Minnesota: Recent Episodes
Barry Andersson
Two working film industry professionals talk the ins and outs of movies and the best and worst of cinema.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their red and blue uni-tards and talk all things Superman - the big new Summer blockbuster from James Gunn. Topics discussed include the history of the Man of Steel, the multitude of problems with this new movie and the what the future looks like for DC Studios new cinematic universe.
On this episode, Barry and Mike grab their weapons and do battle over the new animated Predator film - Predator: Killer of Killers. Topics discussed include the potential of the Predator franchise, missed opportunities, and in keeping with the Predator theme...Barry makes the brave admission that he is, in fact, on the Epstein list!! (JK - Barry isn't really on the Epstein list.)
On this combustible episode, Barry and Mike buckle up and crash head on over the Brad Pitt racing blockbuster F1. Topics discussed include is this movie any good? As well as Brad Pitt vs Tom Cruise, and the not-so-secret formula of summer blockbusters.
On this episode, Barry and Mike head down to the Delta and sing the blues over Ryan Coogler's blockbuster vampire movie, Sinners, starring Michael B. Jordan. Questions addressed include is Ryan Coogler good? Is Michael B. Jordan Good? Is Sinners good? Stay tuned at the end for a rundown of the Summer blockbuster season and predictions regarding Fantastic Four and Superman.
On this episode, Barry and Mike go door to door to spread the word about Heretic, the horror/thriller starring Hugh Grant now available on MAX. Topics discussed include the terrific cast, the fantastic first half of the film, and the trouble with finals acts.
On this episode, Barry and Mike head to maximum security to discuss the prison drama Sing Sing, starring Best Actor Oscar nominee Colman Domingo. Topics discussed include the terrific cast, the terrible marketing, and the paucity of quality films like Sing Sing. Stick around for the bonus discussion about the 'Mike-terion Collection' - the best of the movies that Barry and Mike have reviewed.
On this episode, Barry and Mike thoroughly investigate the 2024 hidden gem September 5, which dramatizes ABC's coverage of the 1972 attack on the Israeli Olympic team. Topics discussed include the restraint and focus of the film, the fantastic filmmaking and pondering how a movie this good got overlooked. Barry and Mike also spend some time discussing Gene Hackman and his legendary career.
On this episode, Barry and Mike head to the strip club to talk all things Anora, the Academy Award nominated dramedy from director Sean Baker starring Mikey Madison. Topics discussed include a debate over screwball comedy - and whether this movie is one, the merits of the entire cast, and specifically Best Actress nominee Mikey Madison's performance and the undeniable magnetism of Best Supporting Actor nominee Yuri Borisov.
On this episode Barry and Mike mull over the Jesse Eisenberg directed arthouse darling A Real Pain, starring Best Supporting Actor Oscar nominee Kieran Culkin. Topics discussed include our happiness that the film exists, musings on the state of Kieran Culkin, and an examination of our mixed feelings on the film.
On this episode, Barry and Mike grab their swords and don their sandals to talk all things Gladiator II, the sequel to Ridley Scott's Oscar winning Gladiator from 25 years ago. Topics discussed include the brilliance of the first film, the problems with the newest film, and the dream that was Rome.
On this episode Barry and Mike chase their own tails trying to find something nice to say about Amy Adams' new film Nightbitch, currently streaming on Hulu. Topics discussed include the multitude of bad decisions made by the writer/director Marielle Heller, Amy Adams' career decline, and the missed opportunity of a arthouse or body horror "mother" movie.
And finally, stay 'til the end of the pod for a tribute to the great filmmaker David Lynch.
On this episode, Barry and Mike wait in a long security line at LAX and talk all things Carry-On, the new Netflix action movie starring Taron Egerton. Topics discussed include missed cinematic opportunities, the business sweet spot for Netflix, and the brilliance of Die Hard - and to a lesser extent Die Hard II.
On this episode, Barry and Mike are judge, jury and executioner for Clint Eastwood's latest directorial effort, Juror #2, now streaming on Max. Topics discussed include Clint's laissez-faire approach with actors and his baffling filmography, Warner Brother's poor executive leadership, and the 30 Rock "Rural Juror" joke. Bonus segment at the end about the just-released trailer for James Gunn's new Superman movie.
On this episode, Barry and Mike dive head first into the fountain of youth to discuss the intriguing satirical body horror movie The Substance, starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley. Topics discussed include the clever premise of the film and it's quality execution, third act issues, and the stellar work of Moore and Qualley.
In this episode, Barry and Mike head to New Rome to discuss all things Megalopolis, Francis Ford Coppola's newest film. Topics discussed include egregious casting errors, abysmal acting, incoherent script and subpar craftsmanship. But besides that how was the play Mrs. Lincoln?
On this episode, Barry and Mike head out to a Lady Raven concert in Philly only to discover they've unknowingly walked into an M. Night Shyamalan Trap, starring Josh Hartnett. Topics discussed on this pod include M. Night Shyamalan's very odd career arc, and the greatness of his early work contrasted with his disappointing later period films - which most definitely includes Trap.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their comic greasepaint, clown nose and big shoes and belt out some American Standards as they debate the merits of Joker: Folie a Deux, the critically and commercially panned follow up to the Oscar nominated 2019 smash hit Joker. Topics discussed include the negative response to the film, the blessing of seeing through the fog of it all, and director Todd Phillips as prophet of doom.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their superhero tights and talk all things Deadpool and Wolverine. Topics discussed include the value of Ryan Reynold's shtick and a multitude of multi-verse cameos, as well as the tenuous future of the MCU.
On this episode, Barry and Mike hop aboard their Harleys and discuss The Bikeriders, the biker gang movie starring Austin Butler, Jodie Comer and Tom Hardy. Topics discussed include Barry's undying love for Austin Butler, the unsexing of Jodie Comer and the yearning for decent, mid-budget adult dramas.
On this episode, Barry and Mike charge headlong to the front lines of Alex Garland's dystopian film Civil War. Topics discussed include missed opportunities, spitting out the lukewarm, and the albatross of poorly developed characters.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their stillsuits and head to Arrakis to discuss Denis Villeneuve's new film, Dune Part Two, starring Timothee Chalamet and Zendaya. Topics discussed include the dismal state of modern cinemas, the weak acting of Li'l Timmy and Zendaya, and the future of sci-fi movies.
On this episode, Barry and Mike head to Victorian England to discuss Yorgos Lanthimos' crazy Frankenstein-fueled, feminist sex-romp Poor Things, starring Academy Award winning Best Actress Emma Stone. Topics discussed include the astonishing brilliance of Emma Stone, the misery of miscast Mark Ruffalo, and the originality, skill and talent of Lanthimos and cinematographer Robbie Ryan.
On this episode, Barry and Mike head to court in France to debate the merits of one of the best films of the year, writer/director Justine Triet's French legal/family drama Anatomy of a Fall. Topics discussed include the astonishing performance of Sandra Huller, Triet's masterful direction and script, and the glory of exquisitely well-crafted cinema.
On this episode, Barry and Mike have a powwow over Martin Scorsese's Best Picture nominee Killers of the Flower Moon. Topics discussed include late career Scorsese films, DiCaprio's miscasting, and Robert DeNiro's rough last two decades.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don pink beach outfits and chat about Barbie, the biggest movie of the year and and a Best Picture Oscar nominee. Topics discussed include Greta Gerwig's career path, the snub of Margot Robbie, and the sneaky brilliance of Elf.
On this episode Barry and Mike talk snubs and surprises and everything else regarding the Academy Award nominations. Topics discussed include Greta and the Angry Barbies...is Emma Stone's victory set in stone? And is Oppenheimer inevitable?
On this episode, Barry and Mike pour themselves some bathwater cocktails and dance around their mansion in the nude as they discuss Emerald Fennell's new controversial film Saltburn. Topics discussed include the weirdness of Barry Keoghan, Emerald Fennell's major third act issues, and the cinematic skill of Linus Sandgren.
On this episode, Barry and Mike enter the Star Wars adjacent Snyder-verse of the new Netflix science-fiction movie Rebel Moon directed by Zack Snyder...and want to escape that hellhole as quickly as possible. Topics discussed include the plague of unoriginal thinking, how truly dreadful everything about this movie is, and cinematic guilty pleasures.
On this rip-roaring episode, Barry and Mike don kimonos and talk all things Godzilla Minus One, the fantastic new Godzilla movie from Toho Studios. Topics discussed include Godzilla Minus One as companion piece to Oppenheimer, Jaws and other influences, and the skill and craftsmanship evident in the film that is sorely lacking in Hollywood. Bonus content - Barry and Mike have a hilarious discussion about the worst Christmas specials they've ever endured.
On this combustible episode, Barry and Mike ingest heroic amounts of cocaine and then yell at each other about the comedy/horror movie Cocaine Bear. Topics discussed include guilty pleasures, bad taste and the perils of living with bears.
On this episode, Barry and Mike navigate the maze that is Apple TV+ in order to review the first two episodes of the Godzilla-adjacent tv series Monarch: Legacy of Monsters. Topics discussed include Mike's bizarre obsession with all things Godzilla, how spending money doesn't always translate into quality filmmaking, and if a Godzilla shrieks on a podcast but the mic doesn't pick up...did it really happen?
On this episode Barry and Mike talk all things Wes Anderson and critique the four short films he recently made for Netflix based on the Roald Dahl short stories The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Ratcatcher, and Poison. Topics discussed include the joy of short films, the challenging style of Wes Anderson and the awful marketing of Netflix. As a special bonus - watch Barry and Mike's own classic short film "...With No Hands".
On this episode, Barry and Mike talk about No One Will Save You, the new sci-fi/horror movie on Hulu. Topics discussed include UFOs, the uncomfortable accuracy of the film's title, the excitement of an ambitious and well-made movie, and the exquisite performance of actress Kaitlyn Devers.
On this long-awaited episode, Barry and Mike kick around season three of Apple TV's Ted Lasso. Topics discussed include the misery of comedy without conflict, the cancer of self-satisfied tv shows, and the incomprehensible fall of a once enjoyable series.
On this apocalyptically combustible episode, Barry and Mike go nuclear in their discussion of Christopher Nolan's new movie Oppenheimer. Topics discussed include a heated debate over the movie, musings on Nolan's career and a ranking of Nolan's filmography from top to bottom.
Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to listen to Barry and Mike as they jump off a cliff on a motorcycle while discussing all things M:I 7 - Dead Reckoning, the newest installment of Tom Cruise's long-running Mission Impossible action franchise. Topics discussed include the franchise's unique history, the odd stunt-obsessed turn in Cruise's later career, and Barry's attraction to various women like Rebecca Ferbuson, Hayley Atwell and Vanessa Kirby...as well as a special prediction segment where we guess the box office for Barbie and Oppenheimer's first weekend. This podcast will, like its hosts, self-destruct every five seconds or so.
On this episode, Barry and Mike sprint as fast as they can away from the DC superhero movie The Flash. This rip-roaring episode contains boisterous discussions about the disaster area that is DC Films, Ezra Miller's multitude of failures, and the awfulness of George Clooney.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their Spidey-tights and do battle over Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. These friendly-neighborhood movie critics web-sling through such topics as the film's truly spectacular animation and it's creative rejuvenation of comic book cinema, but also it's uneven storytelling and bloated run time.
On the conclusion of their 100th episode celebration, Barry and Mike finish up their streaming service film/tv recommendations. Topics discussed include the wonders of the Criterion Channel, the god-awful shit that is Peacock, and how HBO Max was better before it became Max. Oh...and a flock of geese gets slaughtered on air for no apparent reason.
On this episode, Barry and Mike host a massive party at LCFM headquarters to celebrate their 100th episode. In part one of this historic podcasting event, the fellas not only name drop their bevy of celebrity friends, but also give their selections for good movies and shows to watch currently available on each streaming service. Stay tuned for part two of this blockbuster celebratory event in the coming days.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their Air Jordans and go one-on-one to discuss Air, the corporate tale of Nike's rise to basketball dominance directed by Ben Affleck and starring Matt Damon now streaming on Amazon. Topics discussed include Affleck's directing ability, Damon's viability as a movie star, and the lost art of masterful movies made for grown-ups.
On this episode, Barry and Mike display zero chemistry as they go globetrotting on a spy adventure searching for answers about the new Apple TV+ movie Ghosted, starring Ana de Armas and Chris Evans. Topics discussed include really bad movies, really bad movie stars, really bad streaming services and really bad decisions by streaming services.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their women warrior garb and do battle over The Woman King, the sword and sandal action movie starring Viola Davis. Topics discussed include the blueprint of successful female-led action movies, the burden and benefits of claiming to be "based on a true story", and the curse of over-hyping sub-mediocrity.
On this uncharacteristically joyous episode, Barry and Mike go on a ritzy cruise to debate one of the best movies of the year, the Best Picture, Best Director and Best Original Screenplay nominated Triangle of Sadness. Topics discussed include the glory of original storytelling, the art of deft directing and the joy of well-crafted cinema.
On this episode, Barry and Mike do a quick recap of the Oscars and then catch a flight to Wakanda to discuss all things Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Topics discussed include the sorry state of movie stardom, the sorry state of cinema and the even sorrier state of Marvel.
On this spoiler-filled episode, Barry and Mike get their Irish up and declare their blood feud as they discuss Martin McDonagh's Academy Award Best Picture nominee The Banshees of Inisherin. Topics discussed include the joy of confidently made quality films, the glorious cast and the impressive recent rise of Colin Farrell, and the undeniable darkside of Irishness.
On this episode, Barry and Mike put on see-through nightgowns and dance poorly in the glow of a campfire and car headlights as they break down Steven Spielberg's Oscar nominated, autobiographical movie The Fabelmans. Topics discussed include the perils of autobiography, the Oscars and the abysmal year in movies, and Spielberg's shocking cinematic decline.
On this episode Barry and Mike share their thoughts on this year's Oscar nominations. Topics discussed include the sorry state of the Oscars which reflects the sorry state of cinema, and the underwhelming nominations in an underwhelming year.
On this episode, Barry and Mike indulge in a seven-course discussion about the dark horror/comedy The Menu, starring Ralph Fiennes and Anya Taylor-Joy. Topics debated include the difficulty of making foodie movies and their deliciousness when they're well-done, the endangered adult-oriented mid-budget movie, and the glory of pizza with peanut butter cups.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their glass eyes and try to thwart a fascist coup as they discuss all things Amsterdam, the David O. Russell movie starring Christian Bale, Margot Robbie and John David Washington. Questions debated include is David O. Russell officially a hack? Is John David Washington the worst working actor in Hollywood? What the hell is going on with Margot Robbie? And for how many decades has Robert DeNiro been mailing it in?
On this episode, Barry and Mike jet off to a private Greek island to try and solve the mystery of who murdered cinema as they talk all things Glass Onion - A Knives Out Mystery, the new star-studded Rian Johnson movie on Netflix. Topics discussed include the structure of successful whodunnits, the absurdity of Daniel Craig's egregious Foghorn Leghorn impression, and the tragic lowering of cinematic standards.
Two Pinocchios in one year? You better believe it! On this episode, Barry and Mike don their wooden shoes and head to Geppetto's workshop to debate the merits of Guillermo del Toro's stop-motion animated Pinocchio, available on Netflix. A bevy of heavy topics are discussed, including death, religion, and Barry's shocking Christmas confession.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their coat and tails, grab a baton and orchestrate a discussion about Tar, the new Todd Field movie starring Cate Blanchett. Topics discussed include the ghost of Stanley Kubrick, the brilliance of Blanchett, self-marketing and the cult of the great artist, and the pain of a promising start followed by a failed finale.
On this episode, Barry and Mike get trapped in a cave and watch Ron Howard's Thirteen Lives, now streaming on Amazon. Topics discussed include the raging mediocrity of company man Ron Howard, the dangers of spelunking and the joys of anesthesia.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their gay apparel and head to 1950's Brighton to partake in the British version of Brokeback Mountain titled My Policeman, starring Harry Styles. Topics discussed include the sin of being derivative AND dull, the failed Harry Styles experiment, and is Kris Kristofferson alive or dead?
On this episode, Barry and Mike hop on one leg down to New Orleans to talk all things Causeway, the new Jennifer Lawrence movie now streaming on Apple TV +. Topics discussed include Mike's shameless name-dropping, J-Law's lost mojo, and the basic fundamentals of film-making missing from this movie.
On this episode Barry and Mike man the trenches as they discuss the new Netflix film All Quiet on the Western Front. Topics discussed include Barry's unhealthy obsession with Spartacus, the troubling paucity of anti-war movies and the powerful dichotomy of cinematic beauty and wartime brutality.
On this episode, Barry and Mike head to Detroit to confront their darkest fears as they talk all things Barbarian, the sneaky-good horror hit currently streaming on HBO Max. Topics discussed include the joy of Justin Long, the misery of the Motor City, and why exactly does Barry feel so at home in creepy basements?
On this episode, Barry and Mike head to Kahndaq to go toe-to-toe with Black Adam, the new DC superhero movie starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Questions debated include to Rock or not to Rock? Will aliens murder us to put us out of our cinematic misery? And who ya got...The Rock or John Cena?
On this episode, Barry and Mike grab their magical dufflebag filled with a never-ending yet mysteriously weightless supply of beer and head into a war zone to discuss The Greatest Beer Run Ever, the new Peter Farrelly movie currently streaming on Apple TV. Topics discussed include awful acting, bad movies about great stories, and the curse of endless and empty streaming content.
On this episode, Barry and Mike let the wind blow up their dresses as they discuss the bleak Marylin Monroe bio-pic Blonde, directed by Andrew Dominik and starring Ana de Armas. Topics discussed include the mystery of Marilyn's Cuban accent and shifting aspect ratios, Netflix's curious foray into the land of NC-17, and the incandescence of the one and only Marilyn Monroe.
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their war paint and go toe-to-toe with Prey, the newest installment in the Predator franchise now streaming on Hulu. Topics discussed include the benefit of low expectations, the disadvantage of dismal directing, and the potential future of all things Predator.
On this episode, Barry and Mike wish upon a star in the hopes of becoming real boys as they discuss the new Disney +, Bob Zemeckis movie Pinocchio, starring Tom Hanks. Topics touched upon are...what the hell happened to Bob Zemeckis? What the hell happened to Tom Hanks? And how the hell did a cricket from the American South make the journey all the way over to a tiny Italian village?
On this episode, Barry and Mike get their hairy Hobbit feet moving and head to Middle-Earth to talk about the first two episodes of the new Amazon series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Questions discussed in this episode include, is this what a billion dollars buys you? Why is the acting so bad? And, why is this adaptation of Tolkien so terrible so far?
On this episode, Barry and Mike try not to put a bullet through their gray matter as they suffer through The Grey Man, the new Russo Brothers directed Netflix action movie starring Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans. Topics discussed include awful acting, awful directing, awful writing, awful establishing shots, awful action sequences, awful Chris Evans and Netflix's awful future. On the bright side, listeners get to hear Barry's spirit break when he learns some shocking news about the Grey Man movie universe.
On this episode, Barry and Mike ride screaming goats to New Asgard to talk all things Thor: Love and Thunder, as well as the state of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Topics discussed include the brilliance of Chris Hemsworth, the awfulness of Natalie Portman, Russell Crowe starring in a Mel Brooks Marvel movie, and the billion dollar way forward for Marvel if it wants to stay afloat.
On this episode, Barry and Mike run for their lives from the dino-disaster that is Jurassic World: Dominion. Topics discussed include Jaws/Jurassic Park and the primordial fear of moving down the food chain, the mystery of awful writer/director Colin Trevorrow's career, and the sizzling sexual chemistry between Chris Pratt and Blue the Raptor.
On this episode, Barry and Mike take the highway to the danger zone because they feel the need...the need for speed... as they dissect Tom Cruise's return as Maverick in Top Gun: Maverick. Topics discussed include the mystery of Jon Hamm and the recurring theme of attacking a Death Star, the difficulty of playing volleyball covered in baby oil, and how many G forces could they handle?
On this episode, Barry and Mike don a stiff upper lip as they try to grin and bear the new Netflix WWII movie Operation Mincemeat starring Colin Firth. Topics of discussion include the banality of evil that is sub-mediocre cinema, John Madden as great NFL coach and commentator but abysmal film director, and the missed opportunity of a Weekend at Bernie's World War II movie.
Grab your tinfoil hat and tune in to this blockbuster, groundbreaking episode, that absolutely everyone is talking about, in order to hear Barry expose the most diabolical conspiracy in cinema history involving Sam Raimi and Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. This is the episode that will change everything, everywhere across the multiverse!
On this episode, Barry and Mike launder their thoughts on the final seven episodes of the Netflix drug drama Ozark. Topics discussed include the harmonious sounds of Covid coughing, the foundational failings of an unsatisfying finale and the brilliance of Jason Bateman.
On this episode, Barry and Mike get taken hostage for 90 minutes by Jason Segel, Lily Collins and Jesse Plemons in the Netflix drama Windfall. Topics discussed include not hating a movie but not liking it either, missed opportunities when a project is rushed, and the disappointing state of cinema in the age of Netflix and socio-political pandering.
On this episode, Barry and Mike dig through the dirt to discover the truffle-like gem that is Pig, starring Nicholas Cage. Topics discussed include the strange career arcs of Nic Cage and director Michael Sarnoski, Matthew McConaughey as used-care salesman, defying audience expectations, and the shameful paucity of competently made movies in our cinematically troubled times.
On this episode, Barry and Mike put on snail costumes and slowly slither into the slime that is 'Deep Water', Adriane Lyne's unintentionally hysterical "erotic thriller" starring Ben Affleck and Ana de Armas, that is neither erotic nor thrilling. Topics discussed include snails, the snail room, the sexiness of snails and why the hell are there snails in this movie?
On this episode, Barry and Mike put on their ten gallon hats, chaps and cowboy boots to discuss director Jane Campion's Oscar front-running anti-Western, The Power of the Dog. Topics discussed include toxic masculinity, Benedict Cumberbatch's lack of masculinity, and the state of the CODA v The Power of the Dog Oscar race.
On this episode Barry and Mike head to the Greek Isles to take an unsatisfying vacation with The Lost Daughter, the Netflix movie starring Olivia Colman, written and directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. Topics discussed include bad parenting, bad people, bad movies and what the hell is Ed Harris doing here?
On this special episode, Barry and Mike don their bat capes and cowls and do battle over all things Batman, first and foremost Matt Reeves' new movie The Batman. The boys have a heated debate about the new Bat-film and rank their all-time top Batmans, Batman villains and Batman movies, with some shocking results.
On this episode, Barry and Mike pontificate on the upcoming Oscars and this week's premier of The Batman. Topics discussed include the sorry state of cinema, the thankless job of hosting the Oscars, and cautious optimism over The Batman.
On this episode Barry and Mike talk about Guillermo del Toro's noir remake Nightmare Alley. Topics discussed include the sorry state of cinema, the public's minuscule attention span and the underwhelming appeal of Bradley Cooper.
On this episode, Barry and Mike belly up to the bar and down a few beverages as they wax poetic about George Clooney's latest directorial effort, The Tender Bar. Topics discussed include Clooney's dismal directing filmography and his illusory popularity, as well as Ben Affleck's long and winding road back to normal.
Barry and Mike show off their new technical and audio prowess in this scintillating episode that is the season three premiere of everybody's favorite cinema podcast. The film discussed on this glorious episode is blockbuster Spider-Man: No Way Home. The wide ranging discussion touches upon such diverse topics as the Sony-Disney soon to be not-so-civil war, good guy Andrew Garfield, stealing from the Dennis Hopper film Colors, and dreams of The Flash and Jack Nicholson's price to reprise the Joker.
On this episode, Barry and Mike brace for impact as they critique Adam McKay's polarizing, darkly comedic, climate change satire Don't Look Up starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence. Topics discussed include the trouble with satirizing the already absurd, the genius of Kubrick's Dr. Strangelove and Barry's continuing obsession with Timothee Chalamet. Make sure to stay tuned for a post-credit nude scene!
On this episode, Barry and Mike don their dance belts, flash their jazz hands and dance/fight over Steven Spielberg's remake of West Side Story. Topics discussed include pondering why on earth Spielberg would make this movie, Barry's resistance to Janusz Kaminski's cinematography and Mike's brush with greatness starring Rita Moreno.
On this combustible episode, Barry and Mike talk about the Barry Levinson produced Hulu mini-series Dopesick, which examines the opioid epidemic sparked by Purdue Pharma's alleged wonder drug Oxycontin. Topics discussed include Michael Keaton's brilliance, Purdue Pharma's villainy, the scourge of government and corporate corruption and the hell that is addiction. Love him or loathe him, if you ever wanted a brief glimpse into who co-host Mike truly is...listen to this episode.
On this episode Barry and Mike volley back and forth over the new Will Smith movie King Richard, which tells the story of Richard Williams, the father of tennis prodigies Venus and Serena Williams. Topics discussed include the sorry state of cinema in the age of mediocrity, the perils of the biopic and the problem of Will Smith. Included is a brief bonus chat about the upcoming Spielberg movie West Side Story.
Who you gonna call? Well, Barry and Mike of course! On this episode our intrepid hosts bust some ghosts as they grapple with Ghostbusters: Afterlife. Topics discussed include lessons on how not to restart a franchise, the magic of Paul Rudd and mini Stay-Puff Marshmellow Men, and the sheer genius of Bill Murray and Harold Ramis.
On this episode of everybody's favorite cinema podcast, Barry and Mike head to the post-apocalyptic world of Finch, the new Apple TV + movie starring Tom Hanks. Topics discussed include a Tom Hanks holiday, a list of his best movies, yearning for a Mel Gibson cameo, and lessons learned taking care of sick dogs.
On this episode, newly crowned B-listers Barry and Mike examine the Marvel monstrosity, Eternals, directed by Chloe Zhao. Topics discussed include Ms. Zhao's shortcomings, Marvel's misfires and its murky future going forward, as well as Mike lamenting "what happened to Harry Styles?"
On this episode, Barry and Mike head to Arrakis to ponder Denis Villaneuve's sprawling space epic Dune. Topics touched upon include Villaneuve's appealing style but curious lack of brand, Jason Mamoa as a force of nature, and Barry's highly erotic and inappropriate man-crush on Timothee Chalamet.
On this episode, Barry and Mike have a bizarre Freaky Friday transformation while they debate season 2 of the Apple TV + series Ted Lasso. Tune in to witness Barry's anger management problem, Mike's kind, gentle and forgiving heart, and to hear a celebration of the genius at NBC/Universal who came up with the marketing idea of Peacocktober.
As the world suffers through a hellacious late summer drought of quality cinema, Barry and Mike give very diverse recommendations on their top choices for movies to stream on Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon and Disney +.
For the full written list, click here.
On this episode Barry and Mike reveal their mastery of sign language by discussing the Apple TV movie CODA, which stands for 'children of deaf adults'. The discussion hits such diverse topics as a Hallmark version of Good Will Hunting, the luxury of sleeping on a bus, deaf actors vs actors playing deaf, and how John McTiernan would make a great deaf heist movie.
On this episode Barry and Mike head back to the MCU and do battle with Scarlett Johansson's Black Widow. A wide array of topics are discussed including ScarJo's falling star, Florence Pugh's bright future, Marvel's few missteps and The Rock as Humphrey Bogart.
On this episode Barry and Mike tackle the Marvel movie Black Widow starring Scarlett Johansson. A wide variety of topics are discussed, including the superstar potential of Florence Pugh, the falling stock of ScarJo and a list of rare Marvel missteps.
Knock, knock. Who's there? Barry and Mike, that's who, and they're here to talk about comedy! On this episode the fellas start out by sparring over comedian Bo Burnham's Netflix special Inside, and then end the program by giving their somewhat dire State of the Comedy Union address.
On this unique episode Barry and Mike take a look at three Marvel series streaming on Disney Plus - WandaVision, The Falcon and Winger Soldier, and Loki. Topics discussed are the joys of Elizabeth Olsen, Tom Hiddleston's Loki long game, and Kevin Fiege as Marvel Timekeeper.
On this episode Barry and Mike try to make sense of director Steven Soderbergh's latest half-hearted effort No Sudden Move, and then shift gears for a wild discussion on their top 5 heist movies of all-time. Topics discussed include Frank Oz out in the cold in Montreal, the brilliance of Michael Mann, and an open invitation to John McTiernan.
In anticipation of the Pentagon releasing its UFO Report, Barry and Mike prepare for an alien close encounter by listing their top five alien/ufo movies. Tune in to find out if it's true that in space, no one can hear you scream!
On this episode Barry and Mike go back in time to try and make sense of Christopher Nolan's confounding Tenet. Then in the fiery second half of the show things get combative as they each share and compare their personal lists of Nolan's top five films.
On this episode Barry and Mike get dressed up for their date with DISNEY's Cruella, starring Emma Stone. This barn burner of an episode contains discussions on topics as varied as wasting $200 million on CGI dogs, the lost opportunity of a lady Joker and the Disney classics The Great Locomotive Chase and The Mandalorian.
On this episode of everybody's favorite cinema podcast Barry and Mike talk as quietly as possible about John Krasinski's blockbuster A Quiet Place II. Topics discussed include the glory of Emily Blunt, the burden of high expectations and the perils of rushing to make a sequel. Also included are ruminations on Jaws, Jaws II, Jaws III and Jaws IV and the entire Jurassic Park franchise!
In this episode Barry and Mike head out to Skull Island to discuss 2021's first blockbuster, Godzilla v. Kong. The spirited conversation touches on an array of diverse topics, including but not limited to...God of the Old Testament, the Dark Knight trilogy, Robert Downey Jr., the hollow earth theory and how Raymond Burr ruins everything.
On this episode Barry and Mike talk Emerald Fennell's Oscar winning feature film debut Promising Young Woman. Topics discussed include the pros and cons of girl power movies, the failings of revenge fantasy and the unabashed brilliance of Carey Mulligan.
On this episode of everybody's favorite cinema podcast, Barry and Mike get all dressed up and go to the Oscars. Tune in to listen to their Oscar predictions, Oscar dream scenarios and Oscar nightmares, as well as lamentations for the sorry state of the movie industry.
In this episode of Looking California and Feeling Minnesota, Barry and Mike talk the accessible art house gem The Sound of Metal. Topics discussed include the subtle brilliance of actors Riz Ahmed and Paul Raci as well as the testicular fortitude of first time feature director Darius Marder.
On this episode of everybody's favorite cinema podcast, Barry and Mike return to Zamunda for Coming 2 America, the Eddie Murphy led sequel to his 1988 classic Coming to America. Discussion topics include backyard skunks, Eddie Murphy's faded star and the trouble with today's comedy. As an added bonus this episode features a return of the insanely popular segment - "Let's Pretend We're Studio Execs", where Barry and Mike play Hollywood bigwigs and recast the movie!
On this weeks episode of everybody's favorite cinema podcast, Looking California and Feeling Minnesota, Barry and Mike hop in a van and hit the road with Chloe Zhao's film Nomadland starring Frances McDormand. This episode contains discussions on grief and the meditative nature of the film, the required arthouse mindset, and the power of non-actors on-screen. Also featured are scintillating conversations about Jeff Bridges' Snicker bar diet, Chocolatey Chocolate Balls, Amazon's nefariousness and a live blow-by-blow account of a Wild Kingdom moment in Mike's backyard.
On this episode of Looking California and Feeling Minnesota, Barry and Mike cross the pond to bask in the warm glow of Ted Lasso, the Apple TV+ sitcom starring Jason Sudeikis. This episode gets surprisingly philosophical as it asks the Ted Lasso-esque question...can relentless optimism survive and thrive in a deeply cynical world? Also featured are discussions on Sudeikis' brilliance, navigating the tortuous road to use Apple TV+, tales of swimming in cultural septic tanks, and the glorious power of kindness, thoughtfulness and generosity of spirit.
In this week's episode of everybody's favorite cinema podcast, Barry and Mike take a look at director Regina King's One Night in Miami. This episode includes a discussion on the difficulty of turning plays into movies, Barry's bold recasting of the movie Airplane and Mike melting down over the current state of film criticism.
This week on everybody's favorite cinema podcast, Barry and Mike dive into Pixar's latest animated venture Soul. This unique film stars Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey as two entities trying to navigate life, death and New York City. Topics discussed on this episode include diversity in animation, Mike's allergy to Pixar movies and Barry's tales of bad investment advice.
In this tension-filled episode Barry and Mike discuss the much anticipated Wonder Woman 1984. Highlights include shared frustrations over the movie‘s missed opportunities, multiple mispronunciations of Gal Gadot’s name and an enraged Mike viciously assaulting Barry over a misunderstanding.
In this episode of everybody’s favorite cinema podcast, Barry and Mike debate David Fincher’s polarizing new film Mank. Topics discussed include Gary Oldman’s brilliance, Fincher’s frustratingly complex brilliance and an obscure old movie named Citizen Kane.
In this very special Christmas episode of everybody's favorite cinema podcast, Barry and Mike examine the gloriously absurd pop culture phenomenon Recipe for Seduction, the Lifetime Kentucky Fried Chicken mini-movie starring Mario Lopez that tells the steamy tale of KFC founder Harland Sanders. Topics touched upon include Mario Lopez on Mount Rushmore, Shakes the Clown as a Ronald McDonald origin story and Tom Cruise visiting for the holidays.
The bad boys of cinema podcasting kick off their 2021 season early by taking their first dive into the waters of television. This episode Barry and Michael discuss The Queen’s Gambit, the hugely popular Netflix miniseries that is the talk of the town. The topics tackled include Anya Taylor Joy’s beguiling screen presence, the artistic albatross of bad endings and Barry’s unsavory history hustling little kids at chess.
This week Barry berates me for trying to stay current by choosing the new Netflix sci-fi action movie The Old Guard, starring Charlize Theron, for us to discuss. In the episode we break down the movie and consider what worked (not much), what didn’t (a lot), and why. We also dive into the unending mystery of who actually shot this movie.
On today’s podcast Barry and I take a look at the 2019 Clint Eastwood film, Richard Jewell. On the episode we discuss the hopefully soon-to-be discovered, glorious genius of the film's star Paul Walter Hauser as well as the reliable acting brilliance of Kathy Bates and Sam Rockwell. In addition we wrestle with the often-times frustrating nature of Clint Eastwood’s directing approach and the never ending mystery of Jon Hamm.
On this episode of everybody’s favorite cinema podcast we discuss the The Vast of Night, a sneaky good little sci-fi film currently streaming on Amazon Prime. Come join us as we take the Looking California and Feeling Minnesota Starship back to 1950’s New Mexico where we grapple with over-active imaginations and possibly UFO’s!! And we also marvel at the formidable skill of up and coming director Andrew Patterson, who makes his impressive feature film debut with The Vast of Night.
This week things get combative on the pod as Barry and I do battle over his newest choice for a quarantine watch, 2003’s The Last Samurai, which stars Tom Cruise and is directed by Edward Zwick. We also play another round of everybody’s favorite games - Hollywood Mogul. The stakes are high as the loser of the game and the debate must commit seppuku at the end of the podcast!
This week Barry's choice for a must see (rewatch) movie while on quarantine is the nearly decade old The Social Network directed by David Fincher (currently playing on Netflix). This film is extraordinarily written by Aaron Sorkin, filled with incredible performances and directed to a pace that makes 2 hours fly by. Come join us in breaking down this underrated movie that now is interesting to look back on and realize the creation of Facebook is playing during our quarantine.
This week we dive into the decades old Christopher Nolan's modern classic Inception. This movie flies in the face of conventional Hollywood blockbusters and succeeds wildly. Come hear us dig into the many layers of s film.
This week we are doing a directors "showcase" and we are diving into the career of John McTiernan. His films include Die Hard, Predator, The Hunt for Red October, Die Hard with a Vengeance, The Thomas Crown affair and many more. We discuss this dying breed of non-auteur but skilled director and what makes directors like him rare and wonderful to revisit their work.
This week we dive into the overlooked 2007 modern classic There Will Be Blood. This movie is an actor and director at the top of their games that have created a museum worthy movie you can watch over and over again and study the mastery they had while making the film. That is precisely why we want you to check this movie out. If you are a cinema fan you can watch the movie, listen to the podcast and rewatch the movie or if you maybe are a little worried the movie might be a bit slow or complicated you can listen to the podcast and hear our thoughts, favorite scenes and what to watch out for that will help keep you engaged during your movie experience. Check out the movie on Netflix today!
This week we dive into the overlooked 2011 British movie Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. This movie is one of the best crafted movies of the last 10-20 years but is a little bit of in a traditional story structure for a spy movie. This movie makes you think, doesn't spoon feed you nor does it lay everything out with a nice bow on it. That is precisely why we want you to check this movie out. It's a slow burn so don't turn it on late at night when your eyelids are heavy. If you are a cinema fan you can watch the movie, listen to the podcast and rewatch the movie or if you maybe are a little worried the movie might be a bit slow or complicated you can listen to the podcast and hear our thoughts, favorite scenes and what to watch out for that will help keep you engaged during your movie experience. Check out the movie on Netflix today!
This week Barry's choice for a must see (rewatch) movie while on quarantine is the incredible Hell or High Water (currently playing on Netflix). This film is extraordinarily written, filled with incredible performances and directed to near perfection. Come join us in breaking down this modern masterpiece.
This week Mike and I continue our top picks for movies that are streaming you should check out or take second look. This week is Mike's selection of David Finchers Zodiac (currently streaming on Crackle.com). Listen to our thoughts on the movie and then check it out online for free.
We start our series on overlooked, excellent, must watch movies on the major streaming platforms. As we all deal with the quarantines and social distancing we all are running through our list of shows and movies to get caught up on. We wanted to point out a few gems you maybe missed or were far enough off the mainstream path that you should consider watching with the extra time on your hands. This week we look at the fantastic film Ex Machina.
This week real life meets Hollywood. We discuss the current effects the Corona virus is having on the studios and more importantly those working in the gig economy. We also look back at the Steven Soderbergh movie Contagion.
This week we talk about the modern telling of an old classic in The Invisible Man. This classic has been updated to have the film be from the perspective of the main female lead vs the invisible man himself. There are good and not so good things about the film. Join us and hear what we liked, what we didn't and what we would have do differently.
This week we dive into the French film Portrait of a Lady on Fire. This is a French movie with subtitles and is currently in limited release around the country. If you love foreign films or cinema in general check out the movie and then listen to us break it down or if you are so inclined listen to our thoughts and see if that makes you more or less inclined to check out this film.
This week we dive into Quentin Tarantino's 9th film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. We go deep and wide on the film, the impact on cinema, the influences and why this is such a deep and complex movie.
This week we dive into the 2020 Best Picture Nominee Joker. We go deep and wide on the film, the impact on cinema, the influences and why this is such a polarizing movie.
This week we dive into another 2020 Best Picture Nominee Jojo Rabbit. What makes this film so great, why you should see it and what makes is so special. This is an offbeat film that isn't perfect but well worth your time to check it out.
This week we dive into the 2020 Best Picture Nominee Parasite. What makes this film so great, why you should see it and what makes is so special. Also we put on our studio boss hats and we give a few options for what the inevitable American remake/recasting and give you who we would see playing these roles.
This week we dive into the leading candidate for Best Picture of 2019. We discuss what we liked about the movie, what we didn't care for and ways we might have changed how the story was told.
This week we dive into the top categories of the 2020 Oscar Nominations. We cover who is nominated, who was snubbed and at this point who is likely to be the winner.
This week we dive into the blockbuster movie Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. We will dive into our thoughts on the movie as a whole, the acting, directing, cinematography and breakdown our thoughts on how the story plays out.
This week we dive into the Netflix movie Marriage Story. We will dive into our thoughts on the movie as a whole, the acting, directing, cinematography and breakdown our thoughts on how the story plays out.