F1 The Movie & The Phoenician Scheme

What this episode covers

Brad Pitt is a 61-year-old movie star who is still a winner, as he proves in his formulaic Formula 1 star vehicle F1. Although this movie’s 2-hour 35-minute run time has more, er, Pitt stops than it really needs, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree in this podcast episode that Brad Pitt has lost none of his movie star appeal, and the movie itself really immerses you in the high-speed world of Formula 1 racing. Marie and Mike also discuss Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme, a film packed with visual flair, exquisite production design, whimsical storytelling, and an abundance of celebrity cameos. However, the dense plot—centered on a powerful media mogul played by Benicio del Toro—ultimately falls short. The hosts wonder whether Anderson might one day apply his considerable stylistic talent to a story with more thematic depth. This episode of At The Movies with Mike & Marie features thoughtful film analysis, behind-the-scenes insight, and discussion on two of 2025’s most talked-about releases. Listen to more episodes: https://www.howardcc.edu/dragonpodcasts Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Dragon Media Podcasts is produced by Howard Community College. Hosted by Marie Westhaver and Michael Giuliano Produced by Matt Jackson, Manager & Senior Producer at Dragon Podcasts