Not Now in Theaters: A Retro and Cult Film Podcast

Ride in the Whirlwind is a Criterion Classic film directed by Monte Hellman and written by Jack Nicholson.Filmed side-by-side with fellow low-budget Criterion Classic western The Shooting, the movie had a strong reception in France but was practically shelved and then relegated to TV in the United States.But critical and audience appreciation grew over time because Whirlwind just isn't the average western.Right at the height of the western genre's popularity, this anti-western, acid western, whatever label of western you want to give it, we can all agree doesn't play by the genre's normal conventions. This is more like a survival story, told plain and slow, than the gunslinging, win the day type of fare audiences would have been used to.But while I loved The Shooting, covered in a previous episode, how did I feel about the less mysterious Whirlwind? You'll have to listen to find out. But I"ll tell you now I talk about things like the film's intentionally slow pacing, its solid performances, and the beauty yet sadness of Millie Perkins's dark eyes.A group of cowboys takes shelter for the night with a gang of outlaws. But when a vigilante posse shows up to haul the outlaws to justice, the cowboys get caught in the crossfire, mistaken as outlaws themselves. Will the cowboys escape the posse?Directed by Monte Hellman. Written by Jack Nicholson.Starring:Jack NicholsonMillie PerkinsCameron MitchellRupert CrosseConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

A Better Tomorrow II is best-known for its epic, stylish, bonkers end shootout. Ranked by many as one of the best ever shot, it lives up to the hype as among the very best, very bloodiest, very chic Hong Kong action heyday endings ever crafted.But the rest of the film is a chaotic mess.A movie literally fought over by its director (John Woo) and producer (Tsui Hark), it's a mixed vision that feels bipolar.The film is the story of an epic undercover cop operation with some of John Woo's trademark "gun-fu" action one minute, a drama about a raving lunatic the next.But with its hyperbolic moments, like the infamous "apologize to the rice" scene, is this movie still a lot of fun?Join me for this discussion of even more of John Woo's "Heroic Bloodshed," the identical twin main character rescue, and the scenes Max Payne is probably exactly based on.Directed by John Woo.Starring:Dean ShekTi LungLeslie CheungChow Yun-fatConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

John Boorman's Excalibur is still many film fans' go-to story of King Arthur. And it's a movie I love to stare at because it is simply gorgeous.A dark fantasy epic, its visual brilliance and story of light, might, and right continue to captivate filmmakers and audiences.Merlin is here and he's tricky; Morgana is here and she's witchy. Noble Arthur loves Guinevere, but she's twitchy (because of Lanceleot).It's as uplifting as it is haunting. And loaded with practical effects, like handcrafted suits of armor, the film feels as everlasting as the subject matter.Join me for this discussion of green and gold glowing, armor so bright it's like staring at the sun, and the need to check in on your heroes when your film takes a big detour.Directed by John Boorman. Screenplay by Rosso Wallenberg and John Boorman. Cinematography by Alex Thomson.Starring:Nigel TerryHelen MirrenNicholas ClayCherie LunghiPaul GeoffreyNicol WilliamsonConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Nemesis is a low-budget 1990s cyberpunk action film that, if you missed in its day, you got to check out now.With effects wizards from Terminator 2 and cult movie vets behind the camera, director Albert Pyun (Cyborg), cast, and crew stretched a limited budget into an action science-fiction film that's still finding fans today.In this episode, I dive into the cult movie-making that gives Nemesis a stand-out place in the straight-to-video era of the 1990s.If you like Sega Genesis games, books by William Gibson, or action films that are retro and awesome, this movie may be for you.I unpack its fun camera angles, firefights and kickass practical effects, but question its wig choices.Directed by Albert Pyun. Written by Albert Pyun (credited as Rebecca Charles).Starring:Olivier GrunerTim ThomersonCary-Hiroyuki TagawaMerle KennedyYuji OkumotoMarjorie MonaghanBrion JamesDeborah SheltonConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

American Yakuza is a straight-to-video film that may catch your eye because it stars the legendary Viggo Mortensen.In this episode, I explain that, even though I didn't like this film, it may be a good watch for aspiring writers and creatives. As an imitation of a heroic bloodshed film, there are writing lessons to learn here.When forklift driver and ex-con Nick Davis rescues Yakuza gangster Shuji Sawamoto from a mob hit, it marks the beginning of an unlikely friendship. As Nick grows close to Shuji and develops a new love interest, Yuko, he gains acceptance into the Japanese mafia.But when gangster Dino Campanela launches an attack to wipe out the Yakuza, Nick may be called to the rescue again.Directed by Frank Cappello. Starring:Viggo MortensenRyo IshibashiMichael NouriFranklyn AjayeYuji OkumotoAnzu LawsonRobert ForsterConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Is John Dies at the End a modern cult film?Director Don Coscarelli pulled magic from modest budgets with Phantasm and Bubba Ho-Tep. And in adapting David Wong's cosmic horror comedy novel John Dies at the End, well, he pulls up a lot of goo here.And whether you love all the stuff, the many many bags of stuff, that are in this movie or not is the real question here.While the film has mixed reviews, critics and audiences agree this comedy/horror is anything but boring.So being a big Don Coscarelli fan, this was my dive into his last film to date.Join me for a discussion of the film's bags of creativity, a cast that mixes newcomers and cult favorite vets, and whether or not a movie with this many ingredients holds together.When college dropouts David and John try a drug called soy sauce, they receive supernatural powers and get pulled into a multi-dimensional battle to stop an invasion.Written and Directed by Don Coscarelli. Based on John Dies at the End by David Wong.Starring: Chase Williamson, Rob Mayes, Paul Giamatti, Clancy Brown, Glynn Turman, Doug Jones, and Daniel RoebuckConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Prospect is a bit of a space western and a definite science-fiction thriller.The film started as a crowdfunded short and, when it attracted attention, got expanded into a full-blown release.Prepare to have your mind blown by the fact that this film has a $4 million dollar budget yet memorably pulls off what many call "lo-fi sci-fi" or "lived-in sci-fi."And with strong performances from leads Sophie Thatcher and Pedro Pascal (yes, he is in this), this is a movie that many audiences have found but still not enough have gotten to know.Join me for a discussion of spaceships like latte cups, Pedro Pascal's slippery character Ezra, and the merits of not explaining your space tech.Written and Directed by Zeek Earl and Chris Caldwell. Starring:Pedro PascalSophie ThatcherJay DuplassConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

The Death of Stalin is Armando Ianucci's satire of the true paranoia of life under Soviet leader Joseph Stalin.The controversial film has won plenty of fans in some regions but was panned and banned in Russia.Everyone lives in fear of the Soviet leader's frequent executions -- including and especially those closest to him of the Central Committee. But soon that table turns: it's Stalin who falls ill and seems at death's doorstep.With the window closing on the Soviet leader's rule, well, a gaggle of conniving Central Committee members squirm and fight to see who can get through that window of power first.In this British dark comedy, which of the Central Committee members will plot their way to the top?In this episode, I discuss the film's hot potato politics, zany characters, and a ton of accents, yet none from Russia.Directed by Armando Iannucci. Starring:Steve BuscemiSimon Russell BealePaddy ConsidineRupert FriendJason IsaacsMichael PalinAndrea RiseboroughJeffrey TamborConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

The film industry is full of unrealized promising projects that, for whatever reason, fail to launch.In this episode of side reels, I'm discussing my top five films we never got to see that I wish got made.With so-far unrealized projects from George Miller, John Carpenter, Catherine Bigelow/James Cameron, Guillermo Del Toro, and Christopher Nolan -- we've really missed out.From superheroes to steam punk, I'm speculating on what we could have had.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why do Cult Film Fans Love the Horror Comedy blend of House?House started out as a straight horror film but was molded into a comedy.A bonkers movie that worries less about making sense and more about entertainment value, it pits one down-on-his-luck writer against the machinations of a straight-up evil house.As main character Roger Cobb battles demon witches, littler witch things, garden tools out to kill him, and slips through portals, we laugh at all the mayhem.Join me for this discussion of the cult classic comedy horror from the decade that best did that -- the 1980s.I'll be discussing the films puppets and props, whether it should or should not have neatly tied together, and the deepest of deep V-necks.Directed by Steve Miner. Screenplay by Ethan Wiley. Story by Fred Dekker. Produced by Sean S. Cunningham. Starring William Katt, George Wendt, Richard Moll, and Kay Lenz.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Drive (1997) blends Hong Kong action inspired sequences with American "buddy" humor.Drive (1997) wasn't a movie you could go see at the box office, unless you lived in Japan or The Philippines.It debuted on HBO and went straight to video, and it is mostly forgotten.But thanks to the internet, me and many others who missed it back in the 1990s have been told of its ways by those who saw it. And, well, Drive's ways are amazing.With explosive fight scenes featuring Mark Dacascos (Brotherhood of the Wolf) and the comic wingman skills of Kadeem Hardison (A Different World), this kickback action fest is a surprising cult pick.When Toby, a former Hong Kong agent, is implanted with a device that gives him super speed and power, he flees, lest his device fall into the hands of the new Chinese government. But when he lands in San Francisco, he is chased by assassins trying to nab it back. Soon, Toby finds Malik, a struggling singer/songwriter. But Malik's got one important thing Toby needs: a car. Offering Malik a pile of cash for driving him to Los Angeles, Malik accepts.Featuring battles with electrified stun baton wielding assassins, fights handcuffed together in a rock quarry, and a final showdown with an "advanced model" in a strange Apollo 14 restaurant, Drive is a bizarre but mesmerizing fight fest. And I had a blast breaking it all down for you in this latest episode.Directed by Steve Wang. Written by Scott Phillips. Starring Mark Dacascos, Kadeem Hardison, Brittany Murphy, Tracey Walter, and John Pyper-Ferguson.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

How does Bone Tomahawk blend the western and horror genres together?S. Craig Zahler's Bone Tomahawk is, like a throwback cult classic, a low-budget film that has carved out a large fanbase.A "rescue western," the movie puts four men on a journey to rescue abducted townsfolk from a Native American tribe of otherworldly cannibals.And although the movie is notorious for one graphic death scene, there's much more than simple exploitation here. There's a clever screenplay and a film about courage in the face of hardship.Join for a discussion of the film's slow-burning realism, bone-crunching sound design, and lightning-quick violence.Written and Directed by S. Craig Zahler. Starring Kurt Russell, Patrick Wilson, Matthew Fox, Lilli Simmons, Richard Jenkins, Evan Jonigkeit, Kathryn Morris, Sid Haig, David Arquette, Fred MelamedConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why was Dark Star so important to science-fiction films to come?Dark Star began as a student film project by then-USC Students John Carpenter (Halloween) and Dan O'Bannon (Return of the Living Dead). But what started out as an amazing student film was, over the course of a few years, expanded into a full theatrical release.And while Dark Star didn't fare too well at the box office, it gained cult status on the 1980s home video circuit. It jump-started Carpenter and O'Bannon's careers and influenced, or even helped create, science fiction franchises to come, like Alien and Star Wars.But while the film's legacy is never in doubt, does it hold up today?Join me for this episode as I discuss parodying 2001, space boredom, and conversations with talking bombs.Directed by John Carpenter. Written by John Carpenter and Dan O'Bannon. Starring Dan O'Bannon, Brian Narelle, Cal Kuniholm, Dre Pahich. Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

The ending to The Mist shocked audiences.The Mist has a notoriously difficult ending. Still, there are audiences who love it, including its original author, Stephen King.But I couldn't stand it, and I wanted to discuss why.Join me for this latest episode of Side Reels where I break down two reasons I loved the movie but couldn't sync with its ending.The Mist. Directed by Frank Darabont. Screenplay by Frank Darabont, adapted from The Mist by Stephen King. Starring Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden, Laurie Holden, Andre Braugher, and Toby Jones.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

How was Hard Boiled crazy on and off the screen?John Woo's Hard Boiled is considered by many to be one of the best action films of all time and possibly the director's biggest spectacle.Starring two of Hong Kong Cinema's most celebrated male leads, Chow Yun-fat and Tony Leung, the movie continues Woo's exploration of the themes of "heroic bloodshed."And there's plenty of Woo's trademark "gun-fu" here to enjoy.Join me for a discussion of how Woo's improvised approach to the film pays off, heroic bloodshed as the antidote to the western buddy-cop formula, and manic baby rescues.Directed by John Woo. Screenplay by Gordon Chan and Barry Wong. Story by John Woo. Produced by Linda Kuk and Terence Chang. Starring Chow Yun-fat, Tony Leung, Teresa Mo, Philip Chan, Philip Kwok, and Anthony WongConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why do Horror Fans continue to love Night of the Creeps?Night of the Creeps performed poorly at the box office but has endured as a classic piece of 1980s horror.A genre mashup that includes all the things horror and science fiction, Fred Dekker created an unorthodox B movie in the mold of his favorites and came out with something fans hold dear.With practical effects from, among others, the founders of the KNB EFX Group, the cheesy and silly and disgusting fun is a throwback to times when filmmaking felt personal.When aliens toss a canister of mind-controlling slugs to Earth, it's up to two college students, a love interest, and a hard-boiled detective to stop the creeps from ruining the formal.Join me for this episode as I discuss heartfelt goodbye recordings, the joy of shotguns and flamethrowers, and how Tom Atkins is having the time of his life.Written and directed by Fred Dekker. Produced by Charles Gordon. Starring Jason Lively, Steve Marshall, Jill Whitlow, and Tom Atkins.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Sid and Nancy shows love can be as addicting as drugs.British cult film Sid and Nancy is a Criterion collected work and a notable cult film of the 1980s. As a member of infamous British punk rock pioneers The Sex Pistols, Sid Vicious has the stardom many young men would crave. But when he becomes involved with new girlfriend Nancy Spungen, the couples' appetite for drugs spins them out of control.Join me for this discussion of the 1986 rock biopic before that was a real thing and done in a very punk way.In this episode, I discuss the legendary Sir Roger Deakins's cinematography you can't unsee, the film's surreal moments, and Gary Oldman's wild turn in the title role.Directed by Alex Cox. Written by Alex Cox and Abbe Wool. Starring Gary Oldman and Chloe Webb. Cinematography by Roger Deakins. Music By Joe Strummer, Pray for Rain, and The Pogues.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

What movies and TV shows did Brandon Lee appear in before his final role in The Crow?Brandon Lee was more than a martial artist and actor with an ultra-famous father. I'm convinced he was a performer on the way to serious Hollywood stardom.But while you may know his breakout role in The Crow, what were his previous film and television appearances like?This episode takes a look at Legacy of Rage, Laser Mission, Showdown in Little Tokyo, and Rapid Fire, Lee's first four film roles, as well as a few comments about his TV appearances.I discuss how the madcap end of Legacy of Rage gets all John Woo style, how the flawed Laser Mission is a new not-so-guilty pleasure, and Rapid Fire's strong action scenes yet middling nature.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

What makes Battle Beyond the Stars a throwback, knock-off science-fiction film worth a nostalgia watch?After Star Wars reeled in the dollars at the late 1970s box office, imitators around the film industry were everywhere.Battle Beyond the Stars is Roger Corman's way of making a space adventure on a budget, hoping to capitalize on the wave.But the moviemakers turned to Akira Kurosawa just as much as George Lucas, as this film is like Seven Samurai in space (or its American remake, The Magnificent Seven).But little did Roger Corman know he had all-time talent working for him on the film. James Cameron (Terminator 2: Judgment Day) ended up in charge of special effects, and this is the first film scored by all-time great composer James Horner (Titanic).Join me for this episode as I discuss the talking ship with questionable female anatomy, the frustrations of watching battles like laser chicken, and the hilarious battlecry that came from nowhere to make me laugh.Directed by Jimmy T. Murakami. Screenplay by John Sayles. Story by John Sayles and Anne Dyer, based on Seven Samurai by Akira Kurosawa, Shinobu Hashimoto and Hideo Oguni.Starring Richard Thomas, Robert Vaughn, George Peppard, John Saxon, Sybil Danning, and Darlanne Fluegel.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

What makes Walter Hill's The Long Riders a sweeping but violent historical biographical western?The Long Riders just about broke even at the box office (according to star Stacey Keach), and it doesn't seem the film that gets a lot of play nowadays.But this biographical western about the James-Younger gang, to this day, is well-reviewed by fans and critics alike.The movie is probably most remembered as the "brothers" film, because it cast four real-life sets of brothers to play the gang.But there's more than just a casting gimmick behind the movie, and its dreamlike storytelling helps set it apart.Join me for this episode as I discuss David Carradine's impressive performance, an amazing horse stunt, and whether or not the movie can overcome its lack of commentary on the gang's historical place in American history.Directed by Walter Hill. Starring David Carradine, Keith Carradine, Robert Carradine, James Keach, Stacy Keach, Dennis Quaid, Randy Quaid, Christopher Guest, and Nicholas Guest.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

What makes Katherine Bigelow's Near Dark a vampire film that doesn't play by the usual rules?Near Dark is a vampire film that didn't catch too much audience attention at release but quietly found its way to cult horror movie status.A bit of a Neo-western, the movie is about a small-town Oklahoma kid named Caleb who falls in love with a girl named Mae who ends up being a vampire. And when she bites him, she pulls him into the world of the night and hiding from the light of day.But what sets this film apart is its revisionist depiction of the vampire mythos. Instead of the glamorous world of near invisibility, it's the pathetic world of Near Dark. The vampires in the film are vagabonds, struggling to stay out of sight and avoiding the sun.Join me for this discussion of low-tech sunblocking methods, performances and scenes you won't forget, and whether or not one of the wrinkles in the plot spoils the movie.Directed by Kathryn Bigelow. Written by Eric Red and Kathryn Bigelow. Starring Adrian Pasdar, Jenny Wright, Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, Jenette Goldstein, and Tim Thomerson.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why do horror fans keep discovering the VHS-era thrills of Maniac Cop?William Lustig's Maniac Cop is best-known for the appearances of horror icons Tom Atkins (Halloween III: Season of the Witch) and Bruce Campbell (The Evil Dead) as well as cult film actor Robert Z'Dar (Samurai Cop).The movie looks like a brainless Friday the 13th clone but is written with smarts by the famous Larry Cohen. The berserker cop on a killing spree will satisfy genre fans, but it spins up a hard-boiled detective and a conspiratorial backstory. Join me for a discussion of the film's unorthodox structure of three protagonists, unexpected twists, and mighty-fine chins and stiff upper detective lips.Directed by William Lustig. Written and produced by Larry Cohen. Starring Tom Atkins, Bruce Campbell, Laurene Landon, Richard Roundtree, William Smith, Robert Z'Dar, and Sheree North.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Could Dredd 2012 Overcome the Poor Reputation of Judge Dredd 1995?Judge Dredd is a well-known comic book character from the anthology series 2000 AD.  The series has run from the late 1970s to current, drawing close to its 50-year-anniversary.Yet when it comes to his time at the big screen, the cynical tough guy hasn't found the same success.Judge Dredd 1995 was a box-office underperformer and a critical failure.But could the venerable Alex Garland (28 Years Later) and Karl Urban (The Boys) put together an adaptation that pleased fans of the comics, won over critics, and raked in the dollars?Well, not to spoil things, but this episode is about how the movie pulled off two out of three from that list. And, hey, two out of three aint so bad.Join me for this discussion of Karl Urban's power chin, Lena Headey's fear-inducing turn as Ma-Ma, and a drug that makes you hear Justin Bieber at the slowest clip possible.Directed by Pete Travis. Screenplay by Alex Garland. Based on Judge Dredd by John Wagner and Carlos Ezquerra. Starring Karl Urban, Olivia Thirlby, Wood Harris, and Lena Headey.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Can a filmmaker produce high-quality action on a shoestring budget?Versus is a zombie action horror film that goes heavy on substance -- combining gun-fu, martial arts, sword fighting, zombies, Yakuza gangsters -- but light on funds -- starting out with a budget in just the tens of thousands of dollars.An exhilarating action spectacle, the film did little in any box office yet spread around the world in the early days of DVD releases, becoming a cult hit.Ryuhei Kitamura's (Godzilla: Final Wars) debut feature film, the movie is called Versus because of all the fighting in the film and the director's battles off-screen to  become a director. Paying homage to his hero Sam Raimi, this is a low-budget movie also made in the woods with friends that launched careers and captured the vibe of a particular era: the early 2000s.Join me for this discussion of the Japanese cult action classic and its lasting legacy.I'll be talking wicked camera moves, all the actions of action, and the film's comedy.Directed by Ryuhei Kitamura. Starring Tak Sakaguchi, Hideo Sakaki, Chieko Misaka, and Kenji Matsuda.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why Did Critics Hate on The Hitcher and Yet Fans Love It 40 Years Later?Moma told The Hitcher's main character Jim Halsey never to pick up a hitchhiker, and when he picks one up, he immediately learns why. His mysterious passenger, John Ryder, goes on to stalk him across the West Texas Desert, leaving a trail of destruction and death.Inspired by The Doors' song "Riders on the Storm," The Hitcher infamously got zero stars from Roger Ebert and no love from his buddy Gene Siskel.But wouldn't you know it? This horror thriller found fans on home media and cable. And it's a fanbase that continues to this day.Join me for a discussion of Rutger Hauer's all-time villain performance, why the murky details of the plot are an asset, and the film's lasting legacy.Directed by Robert Harmon. Written by Eric Red. Starring Rutger Hauer, C. Thomas Howell, Jeffrey DeMunn, and Jennifer Jason LeighConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

How Did Thief Craft Such Realistic Heist Scenes?Thief is a neo-noir heist action thriller film that, yes, fits into all those categories neatly.The film directorial debut of Michael Mann (Collateral), the movie didn't make a whole lot of money but has some fans in high places. It's landed in the Criterion collection, and still holds an impressive critical and audience score on review sites like Rotten Tomatoes.Thief established Mann's ability to create atmospheric nighttime danger, and it has one tantalizing score from the legendary Tangerine Dream.Join me for this discussion of the film's impressive performances, its amazing dedication to realistic safecracking, and where I come down on the tense ending that divides some viewers' opinions.Starring James Caan, Tuesday Weld, Robert Prosky, Willie Nelson, and James Belushi.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Is Walter Hill's The Driver the source of inspiration for getaway driver movies and games to come?Drive, Baby Driver, or most things with a getaway wheelman -- those films and TV shows likely owe something of their makeup to Walter Hill's The Driver 1978.A sleek, minimalist, neo-noir crime thriller, The Driver never reveals his name and may, in fact, say fewer lines of dialogue than Mad Max (I haven't counted).Still, this all-business operator is perhaps the best in the business behind the wheel.While this movie did little at the box office and isn't all that well remembered, it has some famous director fans. And it may be more influential than most of us realize, when you consider the movies, television, and video games that all came after it.Join me as I discuss the movie's dangerous and thrilling car chases, whether or not the minimalist style works, and the film's lasting legacy.Directed by Walter Hill. Starring Ryan O'Neal, Bruce Dern, Isabelle Adjani, and Ronee Blakley.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Does Atomic Blonde Have the Recipe to Mix Incredible Action with an Intriguing Spy Thriller?"Jane Wick" to some, Atomic Blonde is the vision of John Wick co-creator David Leitch.It's a Cold War tale of spy vs. spy vs. spy vs. more in the days leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall.Released in 2017, the film made a reported $100 million in the worldwide box office, outpacing its $30 million budget (and whatever was spent on marketing).I missed the film on release and have always been eager to check it out, as Reddit threads still pop up to discuss the movie's frantic, all-out fight choreography.Join me for this episode as I gush over its action scenes, the star power of Charlize Theron, and whether or not that's enough to overcome problematic storytelling.Directed by David Leitch. Starring Charlize Theron, James McAvoy, John Goodman, Til Schweiger, Eddie Marsan, Sofia Boutella, and Toby Jones.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

How did Showdown in Little Tokyo get shoved from theaters but find fans on the shelves of video stores?Well now, where was this gem of a movie back in my video store days?With a limited theatrical release and negative reviews, Showdown in Little Tokyo got shuttered to the back of the movie dumpster bin (or that's my theory, at least).But given time, word of mouth, and now, of course, the internet, this buddy cop actioner has caught on as a minor cult film.Released in 1991, it marked the American film debut of Brandon Lee (The Crow).The story of a white cop who grew up in Japan and acts Japanese and a half-Japanese cop who grew up in The Valley and acts white, yeah, it's an odd mix that is worth diving into.Join me for this discussion of stapled-together Japanese stereotypes, overplayed villain music stings, and one of the oddest lines you may ever hear.Directed by Mark L. Lester. Starring Dolph Lundgren, Brandon Lee, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, and Tia Carrere.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why is Knightriders called George A. Romero's Most Personal Film?George A. Romero is forever known as the "godfather of the zombie movie," but Knightriders is a complete departure from his horror films.A personal film that serves as an allegory for Romero's troubles with the film industry, Knightriders tells the story of a band of outsiders who joust by motorbike, performing for crowds.But the cracks in their leader, King Billy's, utopian dream are widening.With the group splintering, can Billy keep them together?Join me for this discussion of an odd duck of a movie. You'll hear about how it was quite progressive for its time, uncompromising in its vision, and delightfully dips into the Arthurian legend for one hell of an ending.Directed by George A. Romero. Starring Ed Harris, Gary Lahti, Tom Savini, Amy Ingersoll, Patricia Tallman, Christine Forrest, Warner Shook, and Brother Blue.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Did Babe: Pig in the City go too far, or did audiences miss the message?A kid's movie for parents who think chainsaws are a toy -- ok, not quite -- Babe: Pig in the City confused audiences.After the feel-good vibes of the original, kids and parents were ready for a sequel.But what they got was shocking.Profoundly darker than the original feel-good 7-time Oscar Nominee, Babe: Pig in the City didn't make back its budget, hitting close to $70 million of that $90 million spent to make it.But with time, it has slowly found a new fanbase: those that can appreciate its ridiculous artistry.Directed by George Miller (Mad Max), Babe: Pig in the City is flat-out gorgeous in its use of color. Its shot compositions will floor you at times, and its grown-up themes can resonate.But did it go too far?This podcast explores the darkness of the film, its comedy shortcomings, and setting triumphs.Directed by George Miller. Starring: Magda Szubanski, James Cromwell, Mickey Rooney, E.G. Daily, Mary SteinConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

What Makes The Hobbit 1977 a Gateway Film for Fantasy?The greatest adventure -- or so the song in the movie claims.This animated adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit was directed by the famous duo of Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin, Jr.Released as a TV movie, it was broadcast by NBC in 1977, dividing critics but winning over some within the fanbase.While you would think this adaptation would vanish in time or be overshadowed by the Peter Jackson live action versions of the 2010s, I'll argue with you there's still a place for it in introducing our youngest audiences to the fantasy genre and works of Tolkien (along with some appreciation from adults).Join me for this discussion of a savage Gollum that wants to eat Bilbo rather than play tricks, a cat-like dragon Smaug, and a curious but lamentable absence of violence.Based on The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. Directed by Arthur Rankin, Jr., and Jules Bass. Starring Orson Bean, Richard Boone, Hans Conried, John Huston, Otto Preminger, Cyril Ritchard, Brother Theodore, Glenn Yarbrough, Paul Frees, Don Messick, John Stephenson, and Jack DeLeon.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why do audiences rave about the overlooked gem Southern Comfort?Walter Hill directed two cult classics with The Warriors and Streets of Fire, but some argue Southern Comfort is his underseen best and belongs in the same category.An action thriller (that seems like horror), the 1981 movie evaporated from theaters worldwide, yet has found some small corners of appreciation over time.It's the story of a small group of national guardsmen who get lost in the swamp and find themselves hunted by local Cajuns. Some audience's "spiritual cousin" to Predator, it was originally titled "The Prey."Join me for this discussion of a movie with constant tension, masterful writing, and atmospheric hysteria.Directed by Walter Hill. Screenplay by Walter Hill, David Giler, and Michael Kane. Starring Keith Carradine, Powers Boothe, Fred Ward, T.K. Carter, and Franklyn Seales.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why do horror fans still love The Blob 1988?A standout work of 1980s body horror, The Blob 1988 updated the campy 1958 classic with a twist of the hard stuff.Not winning too many fans at release, almost like its titular character, The Blob's fanbase has grown with time, with many now considering it one of the strongest practical effects movies just before the dawn of CGI.Directed by Chuck Russell and written by Russell and his pal, some writer/director named Frank Darabont (The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile), the film gives more than just slasher-movie thrills. It actually invests in its characters and offers a glimpse at a terrifying prospect of conspiracy.Join me for this discussion of terrifying blob effects, the film's gift for subverting expectations, and dodgy hair extensions.Directed by Chuck Russell. Screenplay by Chuck Russell and Frank Darabont. Starring Kevin Dillon, Shawnee Smith, Donovan Leitch, Jeffrey DeMunn, Candy Clark, and Joe Seneca.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why is Hard Times worth a watch today?Filmmaker Walter Hill's (The Warriors) directorial debut, Hard Times is an old-school action movie about bareknuckle boxing in the depression era.But with its light-hearted tone and breezy script, there's nothing to be sad about here.When the mysterious drifter Chaney (Charles Bronson) rolls into town, grifter Speed (James Coburn) realizes he has the perfect fighter to take down Chick Gandil (Michael McGuire), the overlord of the New Orleans fight scene.Join me for this discussion of what makes this 50-year-old film a solid script study for screenwriters, the age-defying physique of Bronson, and the endearing chemistry of its characters. And then, of course, the film's lasting legacy.Directed by Walter Hill. Starring Charles Bronson, James Coburn, Jill Ireland, and Strother Martin. Produced by Lawrence Gordon.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

How did Scanners Hack Into the Criterion Collection?David Cronenberg's Scanners is infamous for a scene where a psychic's head explodes.But it's not all mindless destruction here.This science-fiction horror, that I would argue is a thriller, holds plenty of conspiracy and a mystery to solve.A film that helped put Canadian moviemakers on the map, the practical effects and eerie vibes keep the film fresh and help it find new audiences -- like me.Join me for this discussion of what makes Michael Ironside and the cast so awesome, how the story's withholding keeps your interest, and a bit about the movie's lasting legacy.Scanners is written and directed by David Cronenberg. Starring Jennifer O'Neill, Stephen Lack, Patrick McGoohan, Lawrence Dane, and Michael Ironside. Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

How Does S. Craig Zahler's filmmaking stand apart?S. Craig Zahler's (Bone Tomahawk) Dragged Across Concrete is aptly named. This 159-minute neo-noir crime thriller is a slow burner that explodes into violence at a pin drop.Join me for this episode discussing the film's gift for dialogue, its complicated characters, and unflinching attitude toward controversy.Written and directed by S. Craig Zahler. Starring Mel Gibson, Vince Vaughn, Tory Kittles, Michael Jai White, Jennifer Carpenter, Laurie Holden, Fred Melamed, Thomas Kretschmann, and Don Johnson.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Hi Listeners,This episode is a quick update to let you know the show is taking a break for the holidays but coming back in December, as well as what content will be coming down the line.Thank you for listening,WillConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why is John Carpenter's Vampires Such a Mixed Bag?John Carpenter's Vampires ditches all the goth and drama of the genre for a pulpy, no-nonsense, slay-some-bloodsuckers affair.And while the horror western essentially broke even at the domestic box office, it made money overseas and was a reportedly $40 million hit on video.But critics were mixed, and the film has some uncomfortable baggage. Join me for this discussion of the film's strengths and weaknesses, why it divides the Carpenter fanbase, and its lasting legacy.Directed by John Carpenter. Starring James Woods, Daniel Baldwin, Sheryl Lee, Thomas Ian Griffith, Maximillian Schell, Tim Guinee. Cinematography by Gary B. Kibbe.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

How is Bullet in the Head like John Woo's Apocalypse Now?John Woo's Bullet in the Head didn't do well in Hong Kong theaters and flies under the radar compared to his action films of the same period A Better Tomorrow, The Killer, or Hard Boiled.Yet many consider it his underseen masterpiece.By far his "most personal film," John Woo wrote, directed, produced, edited, and (mostly) financed it himself.But the film's unflinching depiction of Hong Kong riots and war-ravaged Vietnam, navigated by three childhood friends, makes for an emotional watch.Join me for this discussion of the only crime, drama, war, and action film you'll ever see.We'll get into what makes it so effective at pulling at your emotions as well as the movie's lasting legacy.Directed by John Woo. Starring Tony Leung, Jacky Cheung, Waise Lee, and Simon Yam.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why do horror fans keep coming back to Prince of Darkness?Prince of Darkness  sounds like the biopic of Ozzy Osbourne that wasn't.It's actually a John Carpenter film, the second of his so-called "apocalypse trilogy," where a liquid version of satan tries to escape from its containment cylinder.And spoiler alert -- like an old-school Starburst commercial, the juice is loose. Or gets loose, you might say.Can a priest and a team of researchers find a way to stop the evil?Join me for this episode discussing many Carpenter fans' pick for his most underrated effort, Prince of Darkness, continuing my John Carpenter series.I'll break down what works so well about this film, what I thought even a master like Carpenter could (constructively) improve, and discuss the film's lasting legacy.Written and Directed by John Carpenter. Starring Donald Pleasence, Victor Wong, Jameson Parker, Lisa Blount. Cinematography by Gary B. Kibbe. Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why do John Carpenter and H.P. Lovecraft fans love In the Mouth of Madness?John Carpenter's In the Mouth of Madness didn't win acclaim or box office dollars, but it has gone on to become a horror fan favorite.The film pays tribute to the works of writer H.P. Lovecraft, and while it has some scary visuals, the trick here is about psychological horror.When the most famous horror author, Sutter Cane (Jurgen Prochnow), goes missing, it's up to John Trent (Sam Neill), an insurance investigator, to uncover the truth behind his disappearance.Trent smells a ruse. But what seems like a publicity stunt soon gets all too real as reality itself seems to be unraveling.Can Trent find Cane and stop the apocalypse?Listen in as my fall films of John Carpenter series continues with In the Mouth of Madness.In this episode, I break down what makes the movie fun, what could have been improved, and discuss its lasting legacy to the horror genre and pop culture.Directed by John Carpenter. Written by Michael De Luca. Produced by Sandy King. Starring Sam Neill. Julie Carmen. Jurgen Prochnow. Charlton Heston. Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Does John Carpenter's Christine live up to the horror fan hype?From the novel by Stephen King, Christine is the story of a nerdy teen who decides to fix up a broken-down 1958 Plymouth Fury.But instead of Arnie's flashy new ride, Christine becomes the engine of his revenge on the bullies who have taunted him.With her powers of self-repair, she begins to slay those not kind to her newfound driver, Arnie.The next film in my John Carpenter series, this episode explores this Carpenter fan favorite.But did I agree with the many fans of the film or have to go against the tide of opinion?Listen in as I discuss this cult classic movie and its lasting legacy.Directed by John Carpenter. Starring Keith Gordon, John Stockwell, Alexandra Paul, Robert Prosky, and Harry Dean Stanton.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why did Flesh and Blood  fail at the box office but find fans with time?Paul Verhoeven's (RoboCop) first English-language film, Flesh and Blood is an erotic historical adventure that bombed on release but has found some fan appreciation with time.Audiences winced at its unflinching depiction of the Middle Ages, a world ravaged by plague, bands of mercenaries, betrayals, and religious zealots.But the moral ambiguity and lack of heroes that got the movie forgotten in its time is exactly why it's worth your hours and minutes today.Join me for this discussion of what makes this movie a missing piece in any film fan's watch history as well as the movie's lasting legacy (so long as you have the stomach for it).Directed by Paul Verhoeven and starring Rutger Hauer, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Tom Burlinson, Susan Tyrrell, Ronald Lacey, and Jack Thompson. Written by Gerard Soeteman and Paul Verhoeven. Cinematography by Jan de Bont.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why does Assault on Precinct 13 still hold up today?John Carpenter's Assault on Precinct 13 was made for $100,000, written in eight days, scored by Carpenter in three, and shot in twenty.Yet its status as a classic endures, and its influence still ripples through filmmakers we celebrate today.A siege movie that combines the elements of Rio Bravo and Night of the Living Dead, the film is gripping as a shaky alliance between police and convicts comes together to survive the night against the ghoulish gangsters forcing their way in.Join me for a discussion on why many film critics consider Assault on Precinct 13 among Carpenter's best works, as well as the movie's lasting legacy and influence.This is the third episode of this podcast's John Carpenter series, with more of the master of horror's movies to come.Starring Austin Stoker, Darwin Joston, Laurie Zimmer, Martin West, Tony Burton, Charles Cyphers, and Nancy Loomis.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why was Escape From New York an influential science-fiction film?Now we're talking --  Escape From New York is the next movie in my John Carpenter series, and it's one of my favorites from his filmography.Teaming up with collaborators like actor Kurt Russell, producer Debra Hill, cinematographer Dean Cundey, and many more, Carpenter presents a bleak vision of a future that seems all too relevant in our current political climate.When the president is taken captive on the now-prison formerly known as New York, it's up to former WWIII soldier, now outlaw, Snake Plissken to swoop in and rescue him.And to make matters worse, Snake has 24 hours to make the rescue or, thanks to the explosives lodged in his neck, die trying.Join me for this episode as we discuss what makes this highly influential film still worth your time today, as well as its lasting legacy in cinema and beyond.Starring Kurt Russell, Lee Van Cleef, Ernest Borgnine, Donald Pleasence, Isaac Hayes, Harry Dean Stanton, and Adrienne Barbeau.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

Why do horror fans still love ghost story The Fog?The first of a fall series on the films of John Carpenter, The Fog is a seaside, small-town ghost story with all the spooky touches from the horror master.Atmospheric and with a swirling score (composed by Carpenter himself), the film is yet another cult classic in the John Carpenter canon.When Antonio Bay hits the 100th anniversary of a shipwreck, strange events occur across town, residents begin to die or disappear, and the secrets behind the nautical disaster come to light.Can the people of Antonio Bay solve the mystery and stay alive as the cursed fog, concealing red-eyed revenants out for revenge, sweeps over the town?Join me for a discussion on what makes The Fog a fun watch and its lasting legacy.The Fog stars Adrienne Barbeau, Jamie Lee Curtis, John Houseman, Janet Leigh, and Hal Holbrook.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

In a head-to-head battle of early 90s gangster movies, will King of New York or New Jack City come out on top?Abel Ferrara's King of New York  and Mario Van Peebles's New Jack City are New York gangster films released just six months apart.While King of New York  didn't find success at release, it gained appreciation on the home rental market and has undergone re-appraisal as one of Ferrara's best.New Jack City was a box-office hit, launching Wesley Snipes to leading-man status and cementing the acting career of rapper Ice-T.But in a head-to-head battle, which one of these early '90s gangster films blows the other away?This episode delves into the execution of these movies to answer essential questions, such as which would win a rap battle against the other, which characters would take out whom in a fictional fight, and, of course, which movie tops the other.Join me for the first head-to-head, versus-format episode of Not Now in Theaters.King of New York stars Christopher Walken, Laurence Fishburne, David Caruso, Victor Argo, Wesley Snipes, Janet Julian, Joey Chin, Giancarlo Esposito, and Paul Calderon.New Jack City stars Wesley Snipes, Ice-T, Chris Rock, Mario Van Peebles, and Judd NelsonConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

What Makes Luc Besson's Subway  Like an Extended Music Video?Luc Besson's Subway is unlike the Luc Besson movies I know.Growing up on his films The Fifth Element  or Leon: The Professional, I thought this was going to be another quirky action film.I got something completely different, but I loved it.The movie tells the story of Fred, an aimless miscreant, who flees the people he has stolen from to land in the mysterious labyrinth of the Paris Metro, where he falls into a life among other people who scratch out a living underground, all while trying to woo a beautiful woman and assemble his dream band.Subway is a prime example of France's Cinema du look movement (Cinema of the Look), characterized by films full of alienated young characters with a visually driven and energetic, music-video-like style.In this episode, I discuss what makes Subway such a compelling film and examine its lasting legacy in France, where it was nominated for 13 Cesar Awards, and worldwide.Directed by Luc Besson. Starring Isabelle Adjani, Christopher Lambert, Richard Bohringer, Jean-Pierre Bacri, Jean-Hugues Anglade, Jean Reno, Michel Galabru, Jean Bouise.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com

What makes Silverado a VHS-Era Comfort Watch?Lawrence and Mark Kasdan's Silverado revives the old western genre tropes when the cowboy stuff had gone out of style.Screenwriter of Raiders of the Lost Ark  and co-writer of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, Lawrence Kasdan (with help from his brother, Mark) brings the pulpy action and quickstep pacing he honed in those all-timer movies to Silverado.But in stepping into the directing chair for his passion project, he injects a kitchen-sink love letter to the western genre, clocking in at 133 minutes.And, hey, if you can roll with the film's apple-pie nature, it's a lot of fun.Join me for this episode talking about the slightly campy but good times of VHS-era favorite Silverado.We'll break down this stellar cast, the blending of four protagonists, and the unorthodox love story you will never see in another film that almost was.Directed By Lawrence Kasdan. Written by Lawrence and Mark Kasdan. Starring Kevin Kline, Scott Glenn, Rosanna Arquette, John Cleese, Kevin Costner, Brian Dennehy, Danny Glover, Jeff Goldblum, and Linda Hunt.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com