Can a toxic environment produce greatness? We ask that question this week as we watched Whiplash (2014). Excellent performances by JK Simmons and Miles Teller, showcase the lengths and punishments that some will endure to achieve their goals. Can you match our tempo? Leave a review and let us know. Also Play: Cinema Chain Game ---------------------…

Did they just make a parenting movie disguised as a kid's movie? The Wild Robot (2024) deals with the challenges and achievements of parenting thru an animated lens. With strong themes and thoughtful storytelling, this film may be the best animated film of the year. Let us know if you got into your feels. Also Play: Cinema Chain Game --------------…

We have reached the end of Reding's Month of Horr-ors, and we close it out with the classic sci-fi horror, Alien (1979) and its latest iteration, Alien: Romulus (2024). One set the framework for a blend of scary and fantastical, as well as creating a universe for many different interpretations. And while you listen, as long as you aren't in space, …

The Ghost with the Most, is back for the 4th week of Reding's month of Horror. We revisit an all time classic in Beetlejuice (1988) and the recently released sequel in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024). Micheal Keaton's portrayal of the bio-exorcist, blends humor and light scares to make enjoyable films for all ages. Let us know if you shared these mo…

We are in week 3 of Reding's Month of Horrors and we are trying to creep out with two of the scariest films according to science: Insidious (2010) and Sinister (2012). Can the Jump Scare Scale get up to Level 4? Are these movies just scary or good films? Does anyone have a spare pair of pants? Listen and let us know what you think. Also Play: Cinem…

Our horror conduit, Tom Reding, is back this week to lead us through the James Wan extended universe, with The Conjuring (2013) and Malignant (2021). Wan's creativity and style has led to multiple sequels and crossover threads. Make sure you have your Jump Scare Scale ready. There are some good ones here! Also Play: Cinema Chain Game --------------…

Welcome back to Reding's month of horrors. All month long, friend of the pod, Tom Reding, will try to get us to watch the best horror films he can. Today we explore the creeping terror of It Follows (2014) and the bone-chilling suspense of Longlegs (2024). We also unveil the Jump Scare Scale for rating scary movies. Where do these movies rate for y…

We are hoping not to be picked last, with our selections this week: Heavyweights (1995) and Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004). Both movies feature the classic underdog trope, while reminding everyone of the fun of gym / recess games. Take a listen and subscribe to the podcast. Also Play: Cinema Chain Game -------------------------------------…

This week, we dive into the offbeat and unforgettable world of Napoleon Dynamite (2004). We’ll explore the quirkiness, deadpan humor, and unique characters that turned this indie film into a cult classic. So grab some dang quesadilla and enjoy. Also Play: Cinema Chain Game -------------------------------------------- Subscribe, rate, and review: Ap…

This week, we explore the surreal and emotional journey of memory and love in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004). We talk about the film's unique storytelling, unforgettable performances by Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet, and the thought-provoking themes of heartbreak and erasure. If you're a fan of sci-fi, romance or just curious about this…

Watch out as we explore the thrilling world of tornadoes through Twister (1996) and the recently released sequel Twisters (2024). We talk about living through tornadoes, groundbreaking special effects, and the impact these films have in disaster cinema. Also Play: Cinema Chain Game -------------------------------------------- Subscribe, rate, and r…

Do you remember the hilarious undercover escapades of 21 Jump Street (2012) and 22 Jump Street (2014)? Neither did we, so we decided to revisit the adventures of Schmidt and Jenko. Are terrible jokes actually a sign of well written material? What define a cameo? Is Channing Tatum a movie star or film legend? Come and listen to find out if we answer…

Time's up and we reminisce about the bittersweet end of summer through the lens of Adventureland (2009) and Snack Shack (2024). We explore the nostalgia, the music, and life lessons of summer jobs, capturing the essence of growing up and finding your way during those fleeting warm days. Whether you're reliving your own summer memories or just disco…

Nic Cage as a globe-trotting, fact-dropping treasure hunter? You had me at Nic Cage! We dive into the adventurous world of National Treasure (2004) and its better-than-remembered sequel, National Treasure: Book of Secrets (2007). These films combine riddles, heists, and low-key danger into a family friendly option that calls back fictional adventur…

Does anyone know whats going on? We review the financial crises that shook the world and captured in Margin Call (2011) and The Big Short (2015). We talk about the high-stakes drama, real-life events, and sharp critiques of the financial system portrayed in these cinematic masterpieces, (One does it better than the other). Whether you're a finance …

We are back to explore the epic world of Arrakis through Denis Villeneuve's visionary films. We love the stunning visuals and intricate storytelling of Dune (2021) and its highly anticipated sequel, Dune: Part Two (2023). We discuss the near perfect, star-studded casting (with a few exceptions) and the rich universe of sandworms, spice, and water o…

Stay Classy, San Diego, as we dive deep into the hilarious world of Ron Burgundy and his news team! We explore the iconic 2004 comedy Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy and its uproarious sequel, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues. We'll discuss memorable moments, behind-the-scenes stories, and the cultural impact of these beloved films. Whether …

The dystopian, apocalyptic world that George Miller created for Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) and Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024), is nothing short of amazing. The ability to blend practical effects with newer computer generated imagery, delivers a rich and full experience for the audience. Let us know what you thought of these films. Also Play: Cinema …

Do you like to envision the past as an idyllic land of opportunity? Full of hopes and promises? If so, you might like, nay love Dazed and Confused (1993) and Everybody Wants Some! (2016), from director Richard Linklater. These films highlight growing up and coming-of-age, without being overly silly or obnoxious. Come and listen and let us know your…

He has been heralded as the next big movie star, so we thought we would jump into the pool with Glen Powell and Anyone But You (2023) and Hit Man (2023). We saw glimpses of stardom of in Top Gun: Maverick, but now is his time to shine and we think he does it well. What do you think? Is he the next One? Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple Podcasts: O…

Is this a test? We want to tell you about the movie we watched, but the rules clearly state, you do not talk about Fight Club (1999). Early and excellent work from two of our favorites, David Fincher and Brad Pitt. A formative film celebrating its 25th anniversary, as we look back at its influences on film making and society today. Subscribe, rate,…

Its been 20 years since The Girl Next Door (2004) was released. It was a cap to a raunchy teen comedy era, which we may never see again. And while it dealt with a taboo topic, it blended an pretty good romantic comedy in as well. Let us know what you think or how you remember this film. Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple Podcasts: Our Film Fathers …

Happy Father's Day to all of the dads out there. This week, we continue Genre June with Buddy Action Comedy. Films such as 48 Hrs (1982), Tango and Cash (1989), and The Last Boy Scout (1991) showcase all of the fun tropes of a buddy comedy. Come and listen and add your comments to the discussion. Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple Podcasts: Our Fil…

Welcome back to Genre June. To kickoff month, we started with and oldie but a goodie: Time Travel Movies. We choose to stay away from the common choices and instead saw 12 Monkeys (1995), Primer (2012), and Looper (2016). All very different movies that we all had comments on. Listen and add to the conversations. Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple P…

A historic franchise was started in 1984 with The Terminator (1984) and continued with, arguably the best sequel ever, Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991). These groundbreaking films paved the way for so many others, in the realms of story-telling, visual and special effects, and overall filmmaking. Can these films be as good as we say they are? Sub…

Action knows no borders or boundaries. And the latest is from Dev Patel in Monkey Man (2024). His influences are wide ranging, which enhances the experience, but leaves plenty of room for the stylized action that we know and love. Come and fight for the unseen and get your revenge in the process. Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple Podcasts: Our Fil…

Two men who are the best at what they do. Two men tasked to find the weakness in our systems. Two men who were betrayed and now seek revenge. We watched The Accountant (2016) and Shooter (2007), to get our fix of competency viewing. Will we watch anything, if an expert is showing us? Come and listen to find out.…

A first time writer and an up-and-coming director, joined forces to create one of the best thriller in recent years, Sicario (2015). An all-star cast, excellent cinematography, and score, made this crime drama, much more. It was so good, it warranted a sequel, Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018), and possible more? Come listen and let us know how mu…

The comedic talent of John Cena shows up in everything he does. From the over protective father in Blockers (2018) to the method actor turned friend in Ricky Stanicky (2024), his presence bring levity to the situation. His turn in the WWE was an ideal starting point for his film career. And he is just getting started. Subscribe, rate, and review: A…

One is a cult classic, one is a streamer remake. While they have similar backbones, the original Road House (1989) delivers more than the new version, Road House (2024), even with Jake Gyllenhaal in the lead role. The nostalgia play is strong with Patrick Swayze, but would anyone under the age of 30 enjoy this movie? Come and discuss with us. Subsc…

From less than scale druid monuments to overpowered amplifiers, This is Spinal Tap (1984), has all of the elements of an excellent satire. The rise and fall of a successful fake rock band, was so on point that some had trouble telling truth from fiction. Lets us know what you think of this cult classic. Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple Podcasts: …

We made it. 200th episode of Our Film Fathers and once again we delve into the Tarantino universe. This time for arguably his most popular film, Pulp Fiction (1994). An all-star cast, unique story telling and supremely calm fixer known as The Wolf, lead this movie to greatness. With your continued support, we may too, achieve greatness. Here's to a…

Its Opening Day in Major League Baseball, and what better way to celebrate than watching arguably the best baseball movie ever made, Major League (1989). The tried and true, rags-to-riches formula works great, because you have amazing characters and excellent writing. Listening to this episode is a home run that is not too high! Subscribe, rate, an…

A sweeping epic that combines anime, western, kung-fu, and revenge genres, with a score and soundtrack as diverse, are some of the many unique aspects of Kill Bill Vol. 1 (2003) and Vol. 2 (2004). Both movies are similar yet different, and distinctly Quentin Tarantino. Let us know if you think you should've been the Black Mamba. Subscribe, rate, an…

Movies about toys are designed to draw on the nostalgia of fans. The Lego Movie (2014) and The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part (2017) takes that model to the next level. By layering a story with elements that appeal to all ages, a movie about the world's best building toys, becomes a pretty good film experience. Let us know what you think. Subscribe,…

Genius. Destroyer of Worlds. Father of the Atom Bomb. A man conflicted about his life's work is the focus of Christopher Nolan's latest, Oppenheimer (2023). The director's unique style and expertise is required to deliver the intense and complex story. Find out where this ranks among our favorite of his 12 films. Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple …

If you achieve success by not being your authentic self, is it still success? American Fiction (2023) strives to answer this question with the excellent Jeffery Wright leading the charge, supported by a strong cast. An earlier film starring LaKeith Stanfield, Sorry To Bother You (2018), posed a similar query. Does either film reach a definite concl…

While excelling as the nagging, self-loathing, pontificate, Paul Giamatti has embodied some of the more unique characters in film. And his latest, The Holdovers (2023) is no different. He re-teamed with writer-director Alexander Payne to attempt to recapture some of the magic they delivered with Sideways (1994). Did they succeed? Come and listen to…

Is dreaming of a better life, a problem? If you lie, steal, blackmail, and commit murder, do the ends justify the means? These are the questions asked in Saltburn (2024), the latest from emerging writer/director Emerald Fennell. Its a different rags-to-riches story, that has many a "that scene". Follow us as we discuss, so you don't get lost at Sal…

Lies, murder, and robotic dogs...One of the most villainous characters of all time, Amy Dunne lays her trap in Gone Girl (2014). This Fincher masterpiece draws from good sources and is supremely acted. This is the thriller that you are looking for. And if you haven't seen it, stop listening and go watch it. Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple Podcas…

Sometimes comedy can be a gateway to deeper emotions. We explore those depths with our guest dad, Leighton Smith, and his selection of Groundhog Day (1993). Bill Murray's quest to be better, is something very relatable. We also watched a Movie You Can't Wait To Show Your Kids in What About Bob? (1991). An early "dive" into mental health and how a d…

Dead birds, orange and blue tuxedos, and a suitcase full of IOU lead the way to one of the funniest movies of our adolescence. Dumb and Dumber (1998) continued shine light on the rising star,of Jim Carrey, while Jeff Daniels plays the reasonable partner with his own humor. Come and listen so that we don't have to send out SeaBass. Subscribe, rate, …

Marty is back, and so is Leo. This time, they head west to invade the land of the Osage people in Killers of the Flower Moon (2023). Their latest epic deals with corruption, theft, and the rise of the FBI. While there are some good performances, is this film worth the time investment? We watched it, so join our discussion. Subscribe, rate, and revi…

The lone assassin, tasked with one job. Trained and prepared, until something goes wrong. Now they must find out why, and make those responsible pay the consequences. We all know story, but this time, David Fincher put his hand in the pot to deliver The Killer (2023). Some of us loved it, others not so much, but we can all agree on his work as a fi…

What if the world ended tomorrow? What you do? How would you handle it? Would you welcome your neighbors? We watched Leave the World Behind (2023) and try to answer those questions. With excellent acting from the cast, we examine an interesting story from an interesting director. Come and survive the apocalypse with us. Subscribe, rate, and review:…

We close out Denzember and the year with two interesting Denzel films, both from 2012. Safe House (2012) and Flight (2012), are polar opposites, yet Denzel is able to be "Denzel" in each film. Whether he is a rogue spy trying to expose the system or an alcoholic pilot, questioning his actions, Denzel guides these movies to fulfillment. With help fr…

Its been 20 years since Love Actually (2003) and Elf (2003) were originally released. One has become a holiday classic, while the other has begun to fade away. So we thought we would discuss the lives of these films with two friends of the pod, Matthew Klara and Max Wastler. A friendship that was generated by a love for these films. These season is…

1998 was a big year for some of us, including Denzel Washington. He had 3 films released this year: The Siege (1998), He Got Game (1998) and Fallen (1998). We watched all of them and ranked them in order of enjoyment. Come and listen and see if your rankings match up. Subscribe, rate, and review: Apple Podcasts: Our Film Fathers Spotify: Our Film F…

Off the finale of Noir-vember, we head right into Denzember, with the Robert McCall saga: The Equalizer (2014), The Equalizer 2 (2018) and The Equalizer 3 (2023). Denzel is firmly into his old man action phase and does something he has never done before. Come listen to us discuss Old Man Action, Shows from the 80s and Denzel-ishness. Subscribe, rat…

We close out Noir-vember with a bonafide superstar, Denzel Washington, and his turn at the genre. Devil in a Blue Dress (1995), adds some "color" to the noir film and brings Denzel's arsenal, with some help from Don Cheadle and Tom Sizemore. A different lens shows more potential for the genre. Come and listen and provide your comments. Subscribe, r…