At The Movies

Project Hail Mary" has been a hit movie this spring, and so HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano consider the reasons why in this podcast episode. In this sci fi adventure, Ryan Gosling gives a fine performance as a middle school science teacher whose academic background prompts government officials to send him on an outer space mission to study a mysterious alien force that likes to eat stars. Hey, our sun is a star and so we have reason to worry back here on planet earth! It's a tense story that is leavened with a lot of comedy. Marie loved this movie and Mike not so much, because he found it too cutesy for his curmudgeonly taste. Marie and Mike also discuss "Sirāt," a powerful Spanish drama about a father's journey to find a daughter who went missing in Morocco. This film deliberately does not explain every plot point, leaving viewers with much to contemplate during an existential trip through a beautifully bleak landscape.

Emily Bronte's 1847 novel "Wuthering Heights" has inspired various film versions over the years, and now the latest iteration stars Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi as the ill-fated lovers on the Yorkshire Moors. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano get all academic with their page-to-screen analysis. Although Marie and Mike have their share of negative observations to make about this screen adaptation, they acknowledge that it's the sort of boisterous, lavishly produced film that's sure to get people talking about it.  As they keep talking, Marie and Mike go on to discuss "Midwinter Break." This modestly scaled character study features Lesley Manville and Ciaran Hinds as a long-married couple who take a vacation trip to Amsterdam. Our critics carp about a number of things in the script, but agree that the actors are really fine.

The South Korean director Park Chan-wook made an international name for himself with "Oldboy," and he has continued to tackle edgy material. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano talk about his new film, "No Other Choice." It's about a longtime paper company employee who is suddenly downsized and embarks on an extreme form of revenge. Marie and Mike agree that this dark comedy meanders and has an excessive running time, but it's disturbingly entertaining. Marie and Mike also talk about "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple." The fourth installment in this postapocalyptic zombie franchise, it's technically well-crafted and yet our critics are bothered by its relentlessly sadistic violence and think that much of what should be scary instead comes across as borderline camp. But Marie and Mike are enthusiastic about Ralph Fiennes' terrific performance as a doctor seeking a cure for whatever it is that has turned so many people into zombies. The good doctor sure has his work cut out for him.

In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano go on at length about the lengthy "Avatar: Fire and Ash." They have mixed feelings about this latest installment in James Cameron's blue-hued franchise, because they think the immersive 3-D filmmaking yields wonderful action sequences, yet the dramatic scenes suffer from ponderous dialogue. Marie and Mike also discuss "Marty Supreme," which is anchored by the reliably terrific Timothee Chalamet as a table tennis player in the early 1950s. Although the supremely flawed title character is entertaining to watch as he mistreats everyone around him, too many scenes simply reinforce that point, and the subplots seem arbitrary.

The Broadway musical "Wicked" spawned a two-part movie version. Part I was a box office hit in 2024 and now "Wicked: For Good" is a box office hit in 2025. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano take a long walk on that Yellow Brick Road as they discuss the things they like and the things they do not like about this colorful spectacle. They're in strong agreement that Cynthia Erivo's Elphaba and Ariana Grande's Glinda/Galinda are a dynamic vocal duo. Marie and Mike also talk about "Rental Family," in which Brendan Fraser portrays an American actor in Japan who is hired to impersonate participants in real-life family situations. This is an actual cultural practice there, so the film is sociologically fascinating. Although our critics think there are some missed scripted opportunities, this film has definite sentimental appeal.

"Bugonia" is the fourth collaboration between director Yorgos Lanthimos and actor Emma Stone. If you've seen any of their earlier films, such as "Poor Things," you know that strange is the norm for this duo. HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano share their mixed reaction to the sci fi-themed "Bugonia" in this podcast episode. They're careful to avoid any plot spoilers, but it's safe to assume that weird things lie ahead. Marie and Mike also discuss "The Baltimorons," whose co-writer and star, Michael Strassner, grew up in Baltimore and returned there with director Jay Duplass to make this comedy about an alcoholic improv comedian looking to sober up and maybe even find romance. Marie loves this film and Mike does not, so tune in and listen to them spar.

In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano acknowledge that director Paul Thomas Anderson lives up to his reputation for making audacious films with "One Battle After Another," in which Leonardo DiCaprio plays a middle-aged former revolutionary who now lives as a recluse in the northern California woods. Loosely inspired by a Thomas Pynchon novel, this lengthy, densely plotted movie constantly jumps between the present and events from 16 years earlier. Although Marie and Mike have various reservations about the film, they admire every performance and especially Sean Penn as a military guy who has to be seen to be believed (or disbelieved). Look for this film to clean up with year-end awards recognition. Marie and Mike also talk about "A Big Bold Beautiful Journey," a magical realism clunker in which Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell discover doorways that serve as portals to the past. The terrible script gives us flat characters and will have you looking for the doorway out of the theater.

As self-professed film nerds, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano were primed to see "Highest 2 Lowest," director Spike Lee's reworking of the classic 1963 Akira Kurosawa film "High and Low." In this podcast episode, Marie and Mike talk about what's the same and what's different in the two versions. Although they often agree to disagree on the merits of the new version, they agree that Denzel Washington and Jeffrey Wright give strong performances in the central roles. Marie and Mike also talk about director Ethan Coen's "Honey Don't," a hectic film noir-ish comedy in which Margaret Qualley plays a detective with plenty to investigate. Our critics think the busy storyline mostly falls flat, but the lead performance is entertaining. Listen to more episodes of At The Movies here Now available on YouTube! 

Genre-related questions link the two films discussed by HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano in this podcast episode. Writer-director Ari Aster, best known for the 2019 horror hit Midsommar, blends multiple genres in Eddington, where Joaquin Phoenix portrays a small-town New Mexico sheriff during May 2020. This contemporary Western, pandemic-era story, and political satire explores dark comedy, suspense, and dramatic storytelling—all in a 148-minute cinematic experience. Writer-director Mike Flanagan’s The Life of Chuck, adapted from a Stephen King novella, stars Tom Hiddleston as a 39-year-old accountant facing a brain tumor. Told in three acts in reverse chronological order, with Nick Offerman as narrator, the film challenges conventional storytelling techniques while exploring drama, emotional storytelling, and psychological themes. Professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano offer higher education perspectives on film analysis, genre conventions, and narrative structure. Although they share some reservations about both films, they agree these are unconventional, compelling, and often very funny films worth discussing. Listen to more At The Movies episodes here Follow our new YouTube channel for more shows and updates!

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 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 here. 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

Tom Cruise is a 62-year-old action movie hero still capable of dangling from airplanes and punching out bad guys. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano talk about "Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning," and, of course, they wonder if it will indeed be the final reckoning for this venerable franchise. Marie and Mike carp about the 169-minute running time, implausible and formulaic story, stilted acting and other things, but also readily acknowledge that it's an enjoyable popcorn movie. Just make sure you have a big bucket of popcorn to see you through it. They also discuss a movie that is its polar opposite. "Secret Mall Apartment" is a low-budget, quirky documentary about eight Rhode Islanders who as an art project set up a totally illegal apartment inside a Providence shopping mall and then live in it for four years. This film raises all sorts of interesting questions about the nature of art, commerce, and surreptitious cinderblock construction. Listen to more episodes of At The Movies with Mike & Marie Follow Dragon Podcasts on Instagram and Twitter for more episodes

Director Ryan Coogler already has "Fruitvale Station," "Creed," and two "Black Panther" films to his credit, and so his latest film, "Sinners," was greatly anticipated. As, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano note in this podcast episode, it has been a critical success and major box office hit. Set in Mississippi in 1932, Coogler's fusion of a blues-based drama and a vampire story makes for a very interesting film. Marie, Mike, and millions of others are still talking about it weeks after it's heralded release. They are also joined by producer-host of Campus Drive, Dragon Media Podcasts manager Matt Jackson for the discussion and theater experience recap. Folk music is at the heart of the second film that Marie and Mike discuss in this episode, "The Ballad of Wallis Island," in which a wealthy eccentric living on an isolated Welsh island invites a well-known musician to give a private performance. It's a quirky character study that's worth watching.   Listen to more episodes of "At The Movies" with Mike & Marie now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube   Follow Dragon Podcasts on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for updates and reviews from all of our award-winning monthly shows 

South Korean director Bong Joon Ho received so much acclaim for "Parasite" (2019) that expectations were high for his English-language, science fiction film "Mickey 17." In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano acknowledge that the film has a nifty premise involving Robert Pattinson as a lowly employee on a distant space station whose dangerous work frequently gets him killed, "reborn" through 3D printing, and sent out on the next dangerous job. Our critics became increasingly impatient with this film, however, owing to its strained comedy and excessive running time. Marie and Mike also were disappointed by "Snow White." Starring Rachel Zegler, Gal Gadot and Andrew Burnap, this is a live-action remake of Disney's 1937 animated classic. The latest version's mix of memorable old songs and mediocre new songs is emblematic of why you would be better off watching the original film again.

Looking back on the 2025 Academy Awards ceremony, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano devote this podcast episode to its two biggest winners. "Anora" won five Oscars: Picture, Director for Sean Baker, Actress for Mikey Madison, Original Screenplay for Sean Baker and Editing for Sean Baker. Marie and Mike agree that the central performance is strong, as is the basic story about a Manhattan stripper forming a personal relationship with a wealthy Russian client. However, they agree that the 139-minute running time is excessive, and the film also is excessive in all sorts of other ways. In short, they think "Anora" is overhyped. "The Brutalist" won three Oscars: Actor for Adrien Brody, Cinematography for Lol Crawley and Music for Daniel Blumberg. Marie and Mike praise Brody's performance as a Holocaust survivor who resumes his architectural practice in America, and they also admire how beautifully crafted this film is in terms of cinematography, music and production design. The big however here, of course, is that the film has a bloated running time of 3 hours, 20 minutes (plus a 15-minute intermission if viewed in a theater). Marie observes that many scenes go on longer than they need to, and Mike quickly agrees lest he go on too long in their fast-paced podcast.

Colson Whitehead's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel has been adapted to the screen by director and co-screenwriter Ramell Ross, and "Nickel Boys" proves to be as compelling on screen as it is on the page. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano share their admiration for a film that adroitly handles tough subject matter about a notorious Florida reform school that itself was in serious need of reform. Marie and Mike especially like how the director's point-of-view camerawork facilitates sharing the vantage point of the teen characters portrayed by Brandon Wilson and Ethan Herisse. Marie and Mike also discuss Spanish director Pedro Almodovar's first English-language feature, "The Room Next Door," in which the characters played by Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore evaluate their friendship and mortality-themed issues. Although Marie has reservations about the film's flashbacks, she and Mike agree that it's really nice spending time with these characters in a to-die-for house in the woods.

Bob Dylan arguably remains "A Complete Unknown" in this impressive biopic about the iconic and, yes, enigmatic musician. HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano devote much of this podcast episode to sharing their admiration for Timothee Chalamet's performance as Dylan. As with others in the cast, he did his own playing and singing. They also praise Edward Norton for his portrayal of Pete Seeger. Although Mike points out ways in which this dramatized treatment of Dylan's early career takes some liberties with actual events, he immediately adds that director James Mangold has referred to the film as a fable. Marie and Mike also talk about director Robert Eggers' remake of the 1922 vampire classic "Nosferatu." This remake stars Bill Skarsgard, Lily-Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult and Willem Dafoe. Marie and Mike agree that the film is gorier than it needs to be, but this is a skillfully made and very effective film.

The 2003 Broadway musical "Wicked" has been turned into a movie musical, but the cinematic "Wicked" is just Part I and Part II arrives a year from now. Although HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree that the 2-hour, 40-minute run time of Part I is excessive and, indeed, Mike grouses about franchise expansion, they also agree during this podcast episode that this movie has crowd-pleasing appeal. Yes, there is special effects-driven spectacle in Oz, but the movie is really driven by the central performances by Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. Marie and Mike also discuss "Gladiator II," a much-belated sequel to the 2000 "Gladiator." Director Ridley Scott is now 87 and yet he brings a youthful vigor to this immersion in decadent imperial Rome. Although our critics agree that "Gladiator II" has some dramatic shortcomings, they concur that there is much to savor in this sword and sandal epic.

As a papal thriller, "Conclave" is a very entertaining film. HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano talk about it during a podcast episode in which they are careful not to reveal any spoilers in the intrigue-laden plot about cardinals gathering at the Vatican to elect a new pope. There are excellent performances by Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow and others; and you can't go visually wrong with all of those red-robed cardinals in the foreground and religious artwork in the background. Although the plot twist-fueled story may be borderline-ridiculous at times and the whole film only plumbs the thematic surface, it sure is fun to watch. Marie and Mike also talk about the weepie "We Live in Time," whose romantic pairing of Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield is nearly ruined by a nonlinear editing strategy that is slightly confusing and, in any event, does not enhance our understanding of their characters. There are other films more deserving of your time.

It's daunting to realize that Tim Burton's "Beetlejuice" was released as long ago as 1988, but he now returns to that ghostly material in the aptly titled "Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice."  In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree that it's nice to have actors including Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder back again, as well as the visual cleverness one expects from this director. Although Mike is not exactly a fan of such creative recycling and also complains about the film often seeming aimless and desperately busy, he did enjoy this Halloween-appropriate experience. Marie and Mike also talk about "The Substance," in which Demi Moore plays an aging actress who takes a mysterious substance that produces a younger version of herself. Our critics really disagree about this film, because Mike thinks that an intriguing premise is squandered by a lack of logical development while Marie thinks the aging metaphor is well-developed here. Well, as Mike would be likely to point out, audiences have a 140-minute running time and plenty of gross out moments in which to contemplate that premise.

On this episode of At the Movies, our hosts Mike and Marie discuss sci-fi franchise thriller, 'Alien: Romulus' and Zoe Kravitz's directorial debut feature film 'Blink Twice'. The two tackle new ideas revolving around AI's role in cinema, discuss whether or not the Alien franchise has lost its once terrifying shock factor it became so popular for back in 1979, and also give their opinions of optimism and critique of a first-time director.   *100% Spoiler Free*

"Deadpool & Wolverine" is an R-rated superhero movie that breaks the fourth wall and makes fun of itself. Although Marie loves it and Mike thinks it quickly wears thin, they agree that "Deadpool & Wolverine" knows how to really please an audience. Marie and Mike also discuss "MaXXXine," which is a sequel to "X" and "Pearl." This grungy installment follows Maxine Minx, an ambitious young porno actor who is trying to achieve mainstream stardom. It's a tough movie to recommend, but Marie and Mike admire how well it captures Hollywood circa 1985. As film geeks, they especially like all of the time spent on the backlot of Universal Studios. Hey, it's the house from "Psycho"!

Audiences sat in rapt silence as aliens attacked humanity in "A Quiet Place" (2018) and its 2021 sequel. HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree that the prequel, "A Quiet Place: Day One," is justified and that it is anchored by a strong performance by Lupita Nyong'o as a sick woman trying to survive on the devastated streets of Manhattan. Marie and Mike also discuss Yorgos Lanthimos' "Kinds of Kindness." They really dislike this film, but they do have a few kind words for a cast including Willem Dafoe, Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons. 

Considering that this franchise goes all the way back to 1068, the latest installment, "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," still remains an interesting sci fi exercise in a near-future world in which the apes are civilized and the humans are, well, rather primitive. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano discuss a movie that will satisfy its fans in both technical and thematic regards. Marie and Mike also discuss "The Fall Guy," which they agree squanders its interesting premise about stunt workers in the film industry. Although there is some worthwhile footage of behind-the-scenes action, too much of this movie is given over to an unconvincing melodramatic storyline. Not even Ryan Gosling can save it from falling down.

Set in the near future, "Civil War" is about a messy conflict in a deeply divided United States. Sound familiar? In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree that the film does not fully realize the political potential of its premise, and yet fully realizes the visceral power of accompanying several photojournalists who take a risky road trip from New York to Washington. Strong performances by Kirsten Dunst and Callee Spaeny make us care about a story that does not always hold up to analysis. Marie and Mike also discuss a very different film, "Wicked Little Letters," about a small English village just after World War I. Its colorful characters are mystified by a series of anonymous letters rife with a lot of naughty words. Viewers may find that the salty language wears thin and also may figure out the central mystery long before the characters do, but it's an enjoyable film in large part because of the engaging performances by the likes of Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley and Timothy Spall. 

In 1938 a British stockbroker, Nicholas Winton, organized the rescue of 669 children from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia and these children were sent to safety in Great Britain. This true story is the basis for "One Life," which HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano discuss in this Podcast episode. Anthony Hopkins is terrific as the elderly Winton in 1987 thinking back on his life; Johnny Flynn plays Winton in 1938. Although the bureaucratic details of the mission admittedly make for less than compelling cinema, the final scenes in the film are emotionally powerful. Marie and Mike also discuss a very different film, the film noir-influenced "Love Lies Bleeding," starring Kristen Stewart and Katy O'Brian as a couple who get into a whole heap of trouble in New Mexico in 1989. Although Marie and Mike are not always in agreement about this film, they agree that "Love Lies Bleeding" is never boring. 

It's not often that a sequel is better than the first film, but director Denis Villeneuve's "Dune: Part Two" is better than the first part released in 2021. in this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano discuss a cinematic epic that takes us deeper into the sci fi story and, of course, also visually delivers with more of those ominous sandworms. The human actors are also good, with the familiar faces in the cast including Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Javier Bardem, Christopher Walken, Dave Bautista, Oscar Isaac, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Josh Brolin and Stellan Skarsgaard. Our critics actually look forward to part three. Marie and Mike also talk about a very different film, "The Taste of Things," in which director Tran Anh Hung and actors Juliette Binoche and Benoit Magimel immerse us in the gastronomic world of 1880s France. It's a lovely film in terms of the characters, themes, cinematography and, yes, cuisine.

HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano have a lot to say in this podcast episode, because they're talking about two films that received numerous Academy Award nominations. Cord Jefferson's directorial debut, "American Fiction," strikes an admirable balance between comedy and drama in its story about a Black novelist, Thelonious Ellison (Jeffrey Wright), whose academic novels don't sell nearly as many copies as those of a mass audience-oriented Black novelist, Sintara Golden (Issa Rae). The satirical storyline has serious underpinnings, and that dramatic quality is underscored by Ellison's interaction with family members played by Leslie Uggams, Sterling K. Brown and Tracee Ellis Ross. This is a terrific film. A very different film, director Yorgos Lanthimos' "Poor Things," takes a "Frankenstein"-type premise and soars into wildly surreal territory. Although Mike thinks this film is too long and is often weird for the sake of being weird, he agrees with Marie that it has impressive performances by Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe and the supporting cast, and they also both praise the production design, makeup and costumes. "Poor Things" won't be everybody's favorite, but those who like it are likely to love it.

"The Color Purple" began as an Alice Walker novel, was turned into a dramatic film by Steven Spielberg, then turned into a Broadway musical, and now has been turned into a movie musical by director Blitz Bazawule. That gives HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano plenty to talk about in this podcast episode. This crowd-pleasing film also pleases our two critics, even though Mike can't stop himself from expressing a few quibbles. Marie and Mike also discuss "Ferrari," about Italian race car designer Enzo Ferrari preparing for a race in 1957. Although veteran director Michael Mann brings his usual technical finesse to the story, there is an ironically slow pace for a racing movie. Marie and Mike disagree about Adam Driver's performance as Ferrari but agree that Penelope Cruz is terrific as Ferrari's wife.

In "The Holdovers," director Alexander Payne and actor Paul Giamatti work together for the first time since "Sideways" back in 2004. HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree in this podcast episode that they have great director-actor chemistry in this character study about a New England boarding schoolteacher tasked with watching the several students who are not able to return home for the Christmas break. There are equally fine performances by Dominic Sessa as a student, Da'Vine Joy Randolph as the school cook, and Carrie Preston as a school administrator. This is one of the best films of the year. Less successful is director Ridley Scott's biopic "Napoleon." Although there are impressively staged battlefield sequences, the film is just a chronicle of one thing after another in Napoleon's busy life. Scott unfortunately mixes actual events with entirely fictionalized scenes, and there is almost no historical analysis. Joaquin Phoenix's brooding performance never really lets us inside Napoleon's personality, but at least Vanessa Kirby makes an intriguing impression as the Empress Josephine. So, think of this disappointing spectacle as Ridley Scott's Waterloo.

As HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano talk about Martin Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon" in this podcast episode, they assure you they won't go on quite as long as the film's 3-hour, 26-minute running time. Although Marie thinks the film is too long and Mike is fine with the running time, they mostly agree that it is a compelling drama derived from David Grann's nonfiction book about a series of suspicious deaths on an Indian reservation in Oklahoma in the 1920s. Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio give reliably strong performances, and Lily Gladstone deserves an Academy Award nomination as Best Actress for her remarkable performance as one of the Indian women. Marie and Mike also discuss "Anatomy of a Fall," an intriguing whodunit set in the French Alps. They try their best to avoid any spoilers while talking about it.

An actual case involving Game Stop stock selling in 2021 is the basis for "Dumb Money," in which the good guy small investors go up against the bad guy hedge funds. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano mention how movies such as "The Social Network," "The Big Short" and "Dumb Money" deal with characters looking at their devices as they make financial transactions. Although Marie and Mike agree that actors including Paul Dano and Anthony Ramos engage viewer interest, the film does not do much in terms of character development. Marie and Mike also talk about "The Creator," a sci fi epic in which humans and A.I. life forms meet on the geopolitical battlefield. Our critics admire the film's production design and are intrigued by its ideas about A.I., but fault it for delivering a thematically unconvincing narrative. Just the same, they acknowledge that John David Washington is fine in the lead role and that the wavering narrative has enough action sequences and comic punch lines to keep you watching. 

Based on a true story about a PlayStation gamer who went on to become an actual race car driver, "Gran Turismo" will satisfy gamers and race car fans alike. Admittedly, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano do not fit into either demographic category. in this podcast episode, they acknowledge what will appeal to the fan base while also noting that the film is too long and, ironically, does not have a fast enough pace. Marie and Mike also discuss "The Equalizer 3," which stars Denzel Washington and equally striking Italian scenery. That may not be enough, alas, to overcome a vigilante-oriented story that predictably and violently lets you know the bad guys don't stand a chance.

Although "Jules" is a sentimental movie about an alien that may remind you of "E.T.," it differs in that the human protagonists are senior citizens rather than kids. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano admire that geriatric twist to the standard storyline, and they also like Ben Kingsley's performance. Marie and Mike do voice a few quibbles about this gentle film, but, hey, they're critics. In any event, these carping commentators are much more critical of "Golda," starring Helen Mirren as Israeli leader Golda Meir. Despite a lot of prosthetic assistance, the casting does not quite work here; and what should be dramatic moments seem muted in scenes that are literally obscured by all of the cigarette smoke.

Oppenheimer" is writer-director Christopher Nolan's ambitious biopic about atomic scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer, who is portrayed with suitable intensity by Cillian Murphy. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree that this is an impressive film tackling difficult scientific and political subject matter, although Mike has quibbles about what he considers an overly busy editing strategy. Look for "Oppenheimer" to receive multiple Academy Award nominations. Speaking of which, "Barbie" could hardly be a more different cinematic experience, but it has garnered favorable reviews along with enormous box office success. Writer and co-director Greta Gerwig oversees an entertaining comedy that has great production design, costumes, acting and cultural commentary. Marie and Mike really enjoyed it. Think pink!

Tom Cruise is a 61-year-old action hero who still delivers the goods in "Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One." HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano acknowledge as much in this podcast episode, but they also wonder about the movie's 163-minute running time - and this is just Part One! Individual sequences are exciting, but maybe it's too much of a good thing. Marie and Mike also discuss "Joy Ride," a raunchy comedy about mismatched friends. Although Marie liked it more than Mike did, they both admire it as a showcase for Asian American actors whose characters have a great time on that joy ride.

Wes Anderson makes visually striking, whimsical movies with large ensemble casts, and in that respect "Asteroid City" is very much a Wes Anderson movie. HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano have a friendly jousting match in this podcast episode, because she likes Anderson's movies more than Mike does. Set in 1955, "Asteroid City" takes place in a Southwestern town in which a TV drama is being filmed. It is sort of about that TV taping, and also sort of about atomic bombs, a Hollywood bombshell played by Scarlett Johansson, outer space aliens and who knows what all else. Mike agrees that it's great eye candy but otherwise finds it hollow and lacking narrative momentum. Even though she loves Wes Anderson's movies, even Marie has some quibbles about his latest. Marie and Mike also discuss the raunchy comedy "No Hard Feelings," in which Jennifer Lawrence plays a financially struggling, working-class woman who is hired by helicopter parents to "date" their innocent 19-year-old son (Andrew Barth Feldman) before he goes off to college. This highly uneven movie glosses over the ethical considerations of its prostitution premise, but the lead actors are solid and there are a few insightful and funny scenes.

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" is the fifth and presumably final installment in an adventure series that began way back in 1981. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano talk about the history of that series and what it's like to now have Harrison Ford as an 80-year-old Indy Jones; and yes, they also talk about the computer-generated de-aging that shows him as a much younger man in the film's prologue. They agree that this movie works as a cinematic theme park ride. Marie and Mike also discuss a very different film, "Past Lives," about childhood friends in Korea who grow apart and then reunite after 24 years. Marie and Mike both really admire how well this film comments on the nature of friendship and the what-if aspects of relationships.

Disney's 1989 animated film "The Little Mermaid" was an instant classic and so it is not surprising that the studio has now released a live-action remake of it. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano share their mixed response to it. For one thing, so much of it is computer-generated that there is more animation than genuine live action here. Also, while they like the performance by Halle Bailey as the mermaid Ariel, they have various reservations about the storyline. Marie and Mike also talk about the animated "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," about which they have, yet again, a mixed response. They like the relatable quality in the film's 15-year-old protagonist, but think the plot is overly busy.

The "Fast and the Furious" franchise has been around for 22 years, and so you could say that the latest installment, "Fast X," is just spinning wheels. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree that fans of the series will enjoy yet more physics-defying car chases by Vin Diesel and company. However, Marie and Mike both think the film's constant thematic references to the importance of family are a bit much. As Mike puts it, Vin Diesel is best when he sticks to the driving. Also discussed is "Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 3," which Marie enjoyed more than Mike did. They do agree, though, that the various critters are well-voiced by the likes of Bradley Cooper, Chris Pratt and, yes, Vin Diesel.

The beloved writer Judy Blume's 1970 novel "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret" is given a very satisfying adaptation in which the story about a girl entering her teen years is handled with comic ease. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree that Abby Ryder Fortson as young Margaret, Rachel McAdams as her mother and Kathy Bates as her grandmother are all delightful, and the 1970s detail really captures that era. This film is a real winner. Marie and Mike also talk about "Chevalier," in which a polymath Black composer (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) is making a name for himself in 18th century Paris. Although they admire how the film makes this real historical figure better known to modern audiences, Marie and Mike think that the film takes an overly conventional approach to what must have been an extraordinary life.

Sometimes a movie is just too long, and goodness knows that is the case with "Beau Is Afraid." In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree that they liked director Ari Aster's previous film "Midsommer," and they also like the premise in his new film about Joaquin Phoenix as an anxiety-ridden man who takes a journey from his city apartment to reconnect with his mother out in the countryside. However, "Beau Is Afraid" has a running time of 179 minutes. Although individual scenes work as surreal comedy, it's ultimately all too much. Marie and Mike also discuss "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant," in which a director known for making violent films with a comic edge turns his action-oriented skill set to the more serious purpose of a drama about the connection between a U.S. army veteran (Jake Gyllenhaal) and his Afghan interpreter (Dar Salim). The script has some overly obvious speeches, but the story itself works really well.

A tennis shoe associated with NBA great Michael Jordan is the subject of "Air," which is all about the invention and marketing of that shoe in 1984. HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano trade observations about footwear as they discuss this enjoyable movie, which features Matt Damon, Ben Affleck (who also directed), Viola Davis and Chris Tucker.  Marie and Mike also talk about the Toni Collette-starring mob comedy "Mafia Mamma." Avoid this terrible movie. 

It helps if you have a background as a gamer in watching "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves," but HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano basically found it visually diverting enough to hold their attention. In this podcast episode, they observe that it is fun watching dragons, wizards, druids, sorcerers and other things they don't encounter in their daily lives, and it's also enjoyable to watch actors including Chris Pine and Hugh Grant. Marie and Mike also discuss a very different movie, "A Good Person," whose story about the drug-addicted survivor of a disastrous car accident is convincingly depicted and for that very reason often difficult to watch. Strong performances by Florence Pugh and Morgan Freeman anchor this redemption-oriented drama.

"John Wick: Chapter 4" is a very lengthy chapter indeed, with a running time of 2 hours, 49 minutes. HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano agree during this podcast episode that it's a lot to watch, but it moves in such a relentlessly fast way that it's usually fun to watch Keanu Reeves as he fights bad guys at scenic locales around the world. Although Mike ultimately found it all rather tiresome, even he thought some of the logic-defying sequences are exciting. Marie and Mike also talk about a film with a totally different premise. "Inside" finds Willem Dafoe as an art thief who finds himself trapped inside a luxury apartment. He has no place to run and no way to get out. Marie loved this film while Mike, ever the curmudgeon on behalf of narrative logic, had quibbles that left him liking the film less as it went along. Our critics are happy to share their disagreement with you.

In case you're wondering what the title "65" means, it's 65 million years ago and an unlucky astronaut has crashed on planet Earth. In this podcast episode, HCC film professors Marie Westhaver and Mike Giuliano discuss the non-stop adventures of astronaut Adam Driver as he dodges dinosaurs and, yes, even quicksand.  It's one thing after another, and our critics concluded that the film lacks much genuine tension. Marie and Mike also talk about "Shazam! Fury of the Gods," an otherwise very different movie that is also relentlessly busy. Although this sequel is bursting with body-switching characters, gods, parents and even a wizard, its frantic nature does include some visually neat sequences.