The Cinephile's Aisle

"Lights, Camera, Action," or in 2026, Ballet, Opera, Cats! As what must be the longest awards season ever comes to a close, TCA joins in on the fun(?) with our annual ballots! Will SINNERS - the most nominated film ever - take home the big one? Will F1 join FORD v FERRARI as racecar films to take Film Editing away from the Best Picture winner? Is the third time the charm for bad-boy-of-the-month Timothée Chalamet? Listen to Ofili, Misgana, and Steve argue it all and let us know what you think!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Steve (one-half of TCA) taps on TMT, co-host of SubmaRoach, and Ese, PM at Fatherland, to discuss all things MY FATHER'S SHADOW. Both making their TCA Debuts, we start off with learning more about their creative journey so far before shifting gears into Nigeria's first official selection at the Cannes Film Festival by the Davies Brothers. What exactly does June 12, 1993 mean to the nation? Is the character Folarin dead or alive? What was the reasoning behind including the Abike plotline? Dive into this episode  (our best yet) to get your answers and more in this TCA must-watch!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

TCA favorite Ikem Okeke, writer and director of HUSBANDRY (2021), returns to TCA as part of #TCAShorts, a segment where we highlight filmmakers whose works include short films. Okeke talks the artists he is influenced by, the stories he is inspired by, and questions he wishes to ask (or answer) through art. TCA then switches gears into A24's sport odyssey, MARTY SUPREME. Timothée Chalamet, a Safdie divorce, and somehow 2008 NBA champion Kevin Garnett are at the forefront of this conversation. Stick around till the end to hear what each host is excited for in 2026, and a very special announcement!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

One of the most anticipated film years ahead, buckle up for 2026. We get into this year's most anticipated releases (10:07), starting with Anne Hathaway's massive upcoming slate (10:47) and a debate about whether Greta Gerwig's evolution from indie filmmaker to mainstream director is something to celebrate or question (16:31). We preview the blockbusters everyone's talking about (23:27) and ask if franchise fatigue is real with major releases on hold or returning (26:17). From The Odyssey to Wuthering Heights and everything in between (26:42), we cover what's worth the hype. The conversation heats up when we discuss the explosion of music biopics, including that controversial Michael Jackson movie (28:28), and then land on our most spirited debate: has A24 officially gone mainstream or are they still the indie champion we fell in love with? (34:46). We wrap things up talking film festivals and why smaller productions still matter (45:27), plus give you the full 2026 release calendar breakdown (47:43).Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

"If there was a real version of ETERNITY, do you think you've lived your happiest years?" TCA (with Misgana promoted to co-host!) are not pulling back punches with A24's afterlife romantic comedy centered around life after death. Starting off with this recent wave of 'throuple' films (7:00), you can listen to Steve's fascination with 'yaoi' and 'yuri' before Misgana shares her frustrations with Joan, the lead character, and her recklessness (13:20). Ofili introduces the two versions of love that shaped Joan's decision making (29:30), the trio marvel at the film's set design (50:40), and wrap up on the question of comfort in death vs the anxiety of the uncertain (55:30). TCA Verdict: 7.3/10.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

One of the best movies,If you need a good crySPOILER ALERT: Episode contains key plot details from 'Sentimental Value.' Join us as we welcome special guest Ayisha for a deep dive into Trier’s emotionally charged film 'Sentimental Value.' We discuss the absence of Steve (0:10), Aisha’s recent cinephile adventures (1:00), and the struggles with film releases in different countries (06:20). The conversation covers initial reactions and film synopsis (14:50),the house as a character in film(25:50),exploring the intersection of architecture and memory(25:30), and  the complexity of family relationships(35:03 ). For our recommendations, we dig into films that resonate with similar themes (58:39).Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Why Die My Love Left Us WantingSPOILER ALERT: Episode contains key plot details from Die My Love.Join TCA as we dive into Die My Love, a film that reaches for emotional intensity while wrestling with structure and perspective. We start with our immediate reactions to the film and how quickly its tone repositions your expectations (00:00), then move into the visual choices and subliminal cues that shape its atmosphere (19:59). We examine why the story feels both packed with ideas and strangely underdeveloped (20:33), and at 21:00 we explore its portrayal of postpartum decline and how closely it connects to real emotional experiences without always earning the weight it aims for. Thoughts on the nonlinear narrative come next (24:12), followed by a closer look at the lead performances and the chances they have in awards season conversations (27:26). We close with the psychological unraveling of the central relationship (30:52) and wrap with a few recommendations for what to watch next, including All Her Fault and Guillermo Del Toros Frankenstein (36:29). TCA Verdict: a divided room, striking ideas, and a film that never fully settles into itself.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

SPOILER ALERT: Episode contains key plot details from One Battle After Another.We dive deep into Paul Thomas Anderson’s most politically urgent film to date. We open with acknowledging our unplanned hiatus and thoughts on the TCA rebrand (2:30), before getting into our initial reactions to the film (8:15), the power of VistaVision and PTA’s visual storytelling (18:40), and DiCaprio’s layered performance as Bob Ferguson (26:05). We unpack Teyana Taylor’s character, sexuality as resistance, and revolutionary fatigue (34:10), before debating the real meaning of legacy and betrayal (46:30). We close with thoughts on PTA’s evolution as a director (58:15).TCA Verdict: 10s across the board. Our first unanimous 10.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Almost a year to the date since our last Comic Book Movie, TCA returns to cover all things SUPERMAN and the verdict: #TheGunnWasLockedAndLoaded. Joined by Kibz (@TheBrothersGeekOutPodcast), they explore the core message of Hope (08:45) and how the film feels in comparison to other Superman movies (13:00), especially THAT red herring. Then they delve into modern audience's perception of the character (23:50) and the difficulties with writing a Clark Kent story in today's world, before closing out by talking about the bad & the ugly (30:40). TCA Verdict: 9/10.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

"...breaking down today's films with tomorrow's eyes," Ofili has clearly been working on a tagline. Joined by Steve, frequent guest Misgana and new guest Banky from Popcorn for Dinner, they dissect the sophomore feature from Celine Song, MATERIALISTS. They explore the mischaracterization of the film's genre (12:30), comparisons to Song's debut film PAST LIVES (18:45), the lead character's turning point (49:35), and the powerful performance from Zoë Winters (59:00). They close out by discussing potential implications of MATERIALISTS on the future of cinema (1:08:15) and the bizarre audience reaction to the film (1:12:55). TCA Verdict: 8.4/10Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

SPOILER ALERT: Episode contains key plot details from SINNERS. Jive along with TCA to the tune of Ludwig Göransson's phenomenal score as they delve into "the most talked about movie of 2025." Misgana returns to dissect Ryan Coogler's latest vampire masterpiece set in Jim Crow-era Mississippi Delta. They cover the significance of that opening sequence (12:45), their appreciation of the cinematography (20:10), Coogler's analysis of race relations (30:15), and some [valid] criticisms of the film (41:05). TCA closes out discussing THAT scene that serves as the crux of the film (56:25). TCA Verdict: 9.2/10.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Ofili and Steve are joined by Jerry, who’s making his TCA debut, to talk through Mickey 17, Bong Joon-ho’s 2025 sci-fi release. “Dying is just another part of the job” sets the tone for a conversation on identity, memory, and the systems that turn people into tools. They dive into the film’s cold color palette and sound design, discuss the religious and philosophical threads running underneath, and unpack what it means to be disposable in a world that keeps bringing you back. Let us know what you think via any of the links below!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Ofili and Steve take us back to some of the 2015 releases (8:55) that left a mark on them in this episode of the TCA. The Lobster, Mad Max: Fury Road, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Room, and Focus are some of the classics turning 10 this year that they touch on. They discuss certain films that they will never rewatch (29:40) like Fruitvale Station, before closing off with a celebration of female auteurs (33:00) in honor of Women's History Month. Let us know what you think via any of the links below!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

not Denis Villeneuve for DUNE: PART TWO, we'll tell you that much. Awards season wraps up with the 97th Academy Awards and it's been one hell of a ride with films nominated for Best Picture involving the use of AI, not involving an intimacy coordinator, having a cast member doing blackface, and all of these combined do not even live up to Karla Sofia Gascon's now-deleted tweets. But Steve and Ofili are joined by Misgana nonetheless to predict who takes home the coveted shiny golden statuette for a few categories on film's biggest night. Let us know if you agree with our picks or your predictions if otherwise!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

It's not everyday you get to see an epic picture so enthralling like THE BRUTALIST, so of course Steve and Ofili had to return to cover all things related to the latest true American classic. Joined by Misgana, the trio discuss the period drama's central themes of immigration and identity (7:15), how the film lives in service of Judaism (19:35), and clashes of sexuality and power (32:25). Finally, looking forward to the Oscars, TCA touch on the use of generative AI in film (55:30) and how this affects Adrien Brody and filmmaker Brady Corbet. TCA Verdict: 8.3/10Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Awards season is here, and for this episode, we are thrilled to be joined by Irima to kick it off! We discuss the 2025 SAG Awards’ biggest categories: Outstanding Male and Female Leads and their Supporting counterparts. Then, we switch gears to talk about why a Better Man stands out. We had a blast recording this one and we hope you enjoy it too.Available now, wherever you listen to podcasts!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

What makes a movie the Christmas movie? Is it the cozy vibes, holiday spirit, or just a snow-covered backdrop? On this episode, we tackle the big question, share our personal favorite Christmas movies, and even debate the eternal question: is Love Actually really a Christmas movie?Plus, we take on the challenge of reimagining non-Christmas movies as holiday films! From classics to unexpected picks, this episode is packed with fun, spirited debates, and plenty of holiday cheer.Tune in for all the festive feels!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Dive into our latest episode as we unpack Conclave, exploring its twists and the deeper philosophy around the interplay of certainty, doubt, and faith. This was an incredibly engaging discussion, capped off with our takes on potential Best Picture winners—ranging from mainstream favorites to some hipster niche picks. While Steve couldn’t join us this time, we were thrilled to have Misgana back for her second episode and a special guest appearance by Ayisha from the Popcorn for Dinner podcast. Don’t forget to check out Popcorn for Dinner on Twitter (@popcorn_dinner) and SpotifySend us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

The TCA is joined by a special guest to cover Steve's "next Best Picture" and Ofili's "one of the best four movies in 2024." In episode 16 we discuss Sean Baker's filmmaking style, the various on-screen relationship dynamics depicted in Baker's latest independent drama, and that final sequence that has got everyone talking. We also talk about how Baker is doing for sex workers what Scorsese did for gangsters, and how this feels like it could be 2024's PARASITE. Will ANORA follow suit by winning the coveted Oscar statuette? Leave us a message and let us know!  TCA Verdict: 9.7/10  Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

*SPOILER-FREE* Say what you want about Crowley's nonlinear structuring of his 2024 tearjerker, but Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield have just delivered the most grounded performances for an on-screen couple in 2024. Ofili and Steve are back to cover the latest romantic drama from A24, WE LIVE IN TIME, and they discuss how the film tackles grief, the feeling of not being enough, and when not to use non-linearity in storytelling. TCA Verdict: 8/10.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

"In my opinion, OSCAR-worthy 2025, very easily" is how Ofili starts off talking about the feature directorial debut from Freemont, CA filmmaker Sean Wang, DÌDI (弟弟). Together with Steve, TCA covers the coming-of-ager and how Academy Award nominee Wang draws inspiration from his 2008 California summers showing learning to kiss, the struggle to fit in with your peers, and the importance of learning to love your mothers. TCA Verdict: 10/10.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Ofili and Steve are joined with Nigerian filmmaker, Ikem Okeke, writer and director of the 2021 short film, HUSBANDRY. Okeke takes them behind the scenes (2:55) of what shooting in Lagos was like, the shoestring constraints of a short film, and how thinking on your feet can be the defining factor of any passion project. Okeke also discusses his next film, and how he has grown as a filmmaker since HUSBANDRY.  Ofili and Steve also cover recent blockbusters, including FURIOSA and CHALLENGERS (26:00). Your TCA hosts close off with a preview of Summer 2024 for film (36:30), covering HIT-MAN, THE WATCHERS, and TRAP.You can watch HUSBANDRY here: HusbandrySend us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Ofili and Steve are back covering the latest crowd favorite, MONKEY MAN. They share what they loved about Dev Patel's directorial debut, what creative choices rubbed them the wrong way, and how not every film featuring a man wearing a suit while fighting bad guys should be termed a "John Wick Movie."Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

"My planet Arrakis is so beautiful when the sun is low." *SPOILER ALERT: Episode contains key plot details from DUNE: PART TWO* In this Season 1 finale, we discuss all things DUNE. Ofili and Steve give their initial reactions to Denis Villeneuve's epic science-fiction sequel to DUNE (2021), the inspired performances of Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson and Javier Bardem, the deviations from Frank Herbert's 1965 novel, and what lies in store for MESSIAH. As it was written.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

It's "Bella in Wonderland" at The Cinephile's Aisle as Ofili and Steve return to discuss Yorgos Lanthimos (4:10) and his latest installation in his bizarre filmography, 'Poor Things' (9:00). They also look forward to a few upcoming films (35:10), including 'Dune: Part Two' and 'Madame Web'.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Ofili and Steve react to the 96th Academy Awards nominations.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

*Contains key spoilers from MAY DECEMBER (15:00), LEAVE THE WORLD BEHIND (25:50), and THE CREATOR (42:45)* Ofili and Steve say goodbye to 2023 by reliving some of the later releases of the year, including Zack Snyder's first installment of the Rebel Moon franchise (37:10). Happy Holidays from The Cinephile's Aisle! Hope you enjoy, and see you in 2024.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

The Hunger Games franchise continues to release films with compound sentences for titles that no one is ever going to call them by, but Episode 7 sees Ofili and Steve fueling their teenage nostalgia by discussing "The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes" (12:20). As always, they discuss what they've been watching (4:25) including 'Thanksgiving movies', or the lack thereof, and all the fury set in dystopian Australia from the new Mad Max (26:00), or as Steve calls it, 'Fast & Furiosa'. The episode concludes with a run through of the insanely stacked release lineup in December (30:40), some of which you definitely would want to see in theaters!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

After a long break, Ofili and Steve return to discuss one of the best films of the year, "The Killer" from Director David Fincher (24:20), and another one of 2023's films, "The Marvels" from Nia DaCosta (19:34). They talk about what they've been watching (8:30) and what we should all be looking forward to (44:20).  As always, there's mindless side talks including an argument on who the best James Bond is (15:20), and somehow neither says Sean Connery!Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

Episode 5 of the podcast sees Ofili and Steve joined by a guest for the first time on The Cinephile's Aisle. Camden, a fellow cinephile, joins our hosts and they discuss Jacob Elordi, Richard Linklater, Jodie Comer, and... well, more movies.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

*SPOILER ALERT: This episode contains key details from the plot of Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer (2023)*Ofili and Steve return with a bang after a long and unnecessary hiatus to discuss Nolan, the two biggest movies of the summer, and how much it doesn't matter if you think sex scenes further the plot or not... Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

PLEASE go watch Celine Song's PAST LIVES if you haven't! The focus of Episode 3 of The Cinephile's Aisle continues with one directorial debut that has taken Cinema of 2023 by shock. Ofili and Steve also discuss The Blackening, Nimona and of course, July 21st AKA Barbenheimer.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

The second installment of The Cinephile's Aisle sees Ofili and Steve coming to terms with getting older, two TV shows they have been watching, and a few directorial debuts that have caught their eyes in recent years. Somehow, Shrek, Rapunzel, and Monsters, Inc. all make an appearance in the same segment.Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.

On the first episode of the podcast, Ofili and Steve introduce The Cinephile's Aisle to the audience. They cover their shock favorites from 2023 in film so far, five movies they're most looking forward to, and all the things happening in Barbieland™. Send us Fan MailSupport the showFind us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @CinephilesAisle.