The Miss Independent Podcast

And here we are, our season 3 finale!This week, we’re closing out the season with Sentimental Value (Affeksjonsverdi), a 2025 Norwegian drama directed by Joachim Trier. The film follows two sisters, Nora and Agnes, as they navigate the sudden return of their filmmaker father, Gustav, who abandoned them years prior. Starring Stellan Skarsgård, Elle Fanning, Renate Reinsve, and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, the film is a powerhouse that earned 9 nominations at the 98th Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. To toast the finale, we’ve paired the film with The Pale Rose by Sacha Lichine. We were immediately drawn to the label, which evokes the elegance of Golden Age Hollywood. Just as there is so much complexity behind the scenes of a movie, there is a deep, emotional "sentimental value" beneath the surface of this story.And, a message for our listeners: We are eternally grateful to you for carving out time in your busy lives for our chaotic thoughts. We’re already buzzing for next season: new films, new interviews, new ideas, and, of course, new wines. We’ve been pushing ourselves creatively on and off the mic, and we can’t wait to show you what’s next.We’re taking some time this summer for vacations and family trips, but while we’re away, it would mean the world if you shared the podcast with your friends and family. We’ll see you in August for the Season 4 premiere. Until the next season (and sip!)

It’s hard to believe next Tuesday is our season three finale!To celebrate, we’re wrapping up the season with two indie films that dominated this past awards circuit. This week, we’re diving into the 2025 film, Hamnet. The story follows William Shakespeare and his wife, Agnes, as they celebrate the birth of their son, Hamnet. However, when tragedy strikes and Hamnet dies young, it inspires Shakespeare to write his timeless masterpiece, Hamlet.Directed by Academy Award-winner Chloé Zhao, the film stars Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, alongside Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn, and Jacobi Jupe. Fun fact: Jessie Buckley actually took home the Oscar for Best Actress this past season for this incredible role.We’ve paired Hamnet with a 2023 Averaen Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley. Shoutout to Chantal for the assist on this pairing! This name is a loose translation for “Bird Queen,” a combination of the Latin Avis (bird) and the French Reine (queen). It mirrors the opening scene of Jessie Buckley with a hawk perfectly. It’s amazing to how these pairings always seem to align.Whether you’ve already seen Hamnet or it’s still on your watchlist, we can’t wait to hear your thoughts!

Join us in celebrating our 50th episode! Good Grief from 2023, written and directed by Dan Levy, was the very first indie film we experienced together in theaters three years ago - and it will forever hold a special place in our podcast history as the film that started it all.Good Grief is an intimate story about love, loss, and the messy process of moving forward. It follows Marc as he navigates the sudden loss of his husband and travels to Paris with friends, uncovering truths about his relationship, his identity, and the life he thought he knew. It’s a film that sits in the uncomfortable spaces: unanswered questions, evolving identities, and the quiet, often complicated reality of being human.Guys…we’ve recorded this episode multiple times, and at this point, we’re convinced it’s a little cursed. Between lost audio, scheduling chaos, and everything in between, this film really put us through it. But for our 50th recording, we made it!To celebrate this milestone, we went all out with not one, but TWO, beverages. The first: La Gioiosa Treviso Prosecco, our sparkling, celebratory pick that truly sets the bar with its crisp, refreshing, and festive profile.And for a non-alcoholic counterpart: Mionetto Prosecco, offering the same light, bubbly experience so everyone can join in on the celebration.Lastly, we want to thank all of you, our incredible listeners, for being part of this journey. Whether you’ve been here since day one, joined us halfway through, or are just tuning in now, your support means everything to us.Here’s to many more episodes, more stories, and to finally, breaking the curse! 

Petite Maman (2021), directed by Céline Sciamma, is a French fantasy drama that follows 8 year old Nelly as she copes with the loss of her grandmother. While helping her parents clear out her grandmother's home, Nelly meets a mysterious girl who resembles her mother as a child, giving her a unique window into her parent's past.We've paired Petite Maman with Pedroncelli Dry Creek Valley Mother Clone Zinfandel. The name Mother Clone felt especially fitting for the story, echoing the film's exploration of motherhood, memory, and connection. Even the label itself evoked the sense of a safe, intimate space that runs through the film. Sometimes the wine gods guide us to the perfect pairing before we even realize it.

Let’s dim the lights and step inside something a little more revealing with Good Luck to You, Leo Grande; a sharp, funny, and surprisingly moving story about what it means to rediscover yourself and start again.At its heart, this film is about women reclaiming their power - owning their desires, their bodies, and their right to feel joy without apology. It challenges agism, reframes the idea of sex work, and reminds us that self-love isn’t something you age out of… it’s something you grow into.Sometimes, what you’re searching for shows up in ways you never expected.Pairing it with the Keplinger Hangman’s Red Wine from 2017 feels just right - bold, layered, and a little untamed. With rich notes of dark fruit and spice, it mirrors the film’s emotional depth and slow unraveling of inhibition.Not a passive watch - or sip. Both invite you to lean into discomfort, vulnerability, and the beauty of truly seeing yourself.

This week, we're taking it back to 2016 and discussing the New Zealand comedy-drama Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Directed by Taika Waititi and starring Julian Dennison, Sam Neill, and Rima Te Wiata, the film follows Ricky Baker, a rebellious foster kid who finally finds a loving home with Bella and her gruff husband, Hec. Following Bella's sudden death, a national manhunt ensues when Ricky and Hec, who initially clash, end up on the run together in the wilderness.We paired Hunt for the Wilderpeople with Frenzy Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. The name "Frenzy" felt like a perfect match for the film's chaotic and heartfelt journey. With aromas of passion fruit, pineapple, and grapefruit, it's bright, vibrant, and a little wild, much like Ricky and Hec's adventure.

Some films stay with you long after the credits roll, Gruff is one of them.This remarkable short from Righteous Robot blends handmade paper sets, puppetry, and “gekimation” to create an animation style that feels entirely its own. Every frame reflects the care, craftsmanship, and heart that went into bringing this story to life.We’re thrilled to see Gruff getting the recognition it deserves. Unique voices and bold creative approaches like this are what make animation such a powerful and exciting art form.To accompany this episode we’re sipping on the 1924 Port Barrel Aged Pinot Noir - a Pinot with a little attitude. Aged in port barrels, it delivers rich dark berry flavors, a touch of sweetness, and a smooth, velvety finish that makes every sip worth savoring. Chosen for its western-y feel, this wine brings a bit of frontier spirit to the glass.Tune in and sip along!

What if the most powerful mob story… wasn’t about the mob bosses? What if the real power lies in the silence that surrounds them.In today’s episode we’re talking about Fresh Kills, Jennifer Esposito’s incredible film set in Staten Island in the late ’80s and ’90s. Rather than centering the men who run the mob, the story follows two sisters growing up within that world - navigating loyalty, family expectations and the complicated inheritance of a life shaped by organized crime. It’s explores what it means to grow up inside that system: the protection it offers, the pressure it creates, and the constant awareness that some truths are simply never spoken aloud.For the wine pairing, we opened Saragat Monica Atzei - a bold Sardinian red with ripe dark berries, Mediterranean herbs, soft spice, and a little earthy edge. Smooth, balanced, and dangerously drinkable.ALSO, Patrick somehow nailed every single note during the tasting. Absolute 10/10 performance.And if things get a little chaotic toward the end of the episode… just know the wine was doing its job a little too well…

This week, we're discussing I Used To Be Funny (2023). The film follows stand up comedian Sam as she navigates life with PTSD and considers joining the search for a missing teenage girl she once nannied. The film stars Rachel Sennot, Caleb Hearon, Olga Petsa, and Sabrina Jalees, and makes the feature writing and directorial debut of Ally Pankiw.We paired the film with Element[AL] Pinot Noir from Bogle Family Vineyards. The AL is boxed in on the label to reflect its 100% aluminum bottle packaging, offering a sustainable take on a California wine. This Pinot Noir features notes of ripe red berries, cherry, and subtle spice.For a fun wine fact, Pinot Noir is known as the "heartbreak grape" because its notoriously delicate and difficult to grow, make it both challenging for winemakers and deeply rewarding when done right.

Would you look at that...It's Tuesday again!This week, we're discussing 2015's The Lure. Set in 1980s Warsaw, Poland, the film follows two mermaid sisters, named Golden and Silver, who are recruited into a nightclub. What starts off as exciting and exotic turns into a haunting tale of identity and survival.We paired The Lure with The Prophecy Rosé from the South of France. With notes of cherry, raspberry, and white peach, it's bright and playful on the first sip. Some would say it's beautiful, sharp, and a little dangerous...just like the film itself.

In today’s episode, we’re unpacking Twinless, the 2025 dramedy that transforms grief, identity crises, awkward humor, and emotional chaos into something unexpectedly tender and deeply relatable. Darkly funny and quietly devastating, the film explores the impossible task of redefining yourself after losing your built-in best friend, balancing absurd comedy with raw vulnerability as it peels back layers of memory, longing, and the lies we tell to ourselves and others. All of this punctuated by perfectly unhinged moments that somehow take us from heartbreak to fetishes and random Friends quotes, but somehow…we make it work!We paired the film with the 2019 Eudes Etna Rosso - a volcanic red  (yes, red!) bursting with bright fruit, smokey notes, and a hint of ash. Born on Mount Etna, its depth, tension, and fingerprint-triangle label echo the film’s themes of identity and connection, leaving a lasting impression with every sip.A wine so enticing that Patrick couldn’t wait for the episode to start…some research just has to happen ahead of schedule.

This week, we're diving into Terrence Malick's 2011 film, The Tree of Life. Starring Brad Pitt, Jessica Chastain, and Sean Penn, this movie centers on a family in Waco, Texas, viewed through the eyes of their eldest son, Jack. It's a journey through the loss of innocence, the struggle between his parents' conflicting views, and the complexities of growing up.To balance the film's heavy themes, we've paired it with Fre Alcohol-Removed Chardonnay. This refreshing white wine offers notes of creamy apple and crisp citrus that provide a bright contrast to the film's intensity. We chose a non-alcoholic option to mirror the central theme of innocence, offer a light, clean palate cleanser for a truly deep cinematic experience.

Happy New Year, Miss Independent Podcast listeners!After taking some time off to enjoy the holidays with family and friends, we're thrilled to be back with brand new episodes.This week, we're discussing Didi (2024), a comedy-drama written, directed, and produced by Sean Wang. The film follows a 13 year old Taiwanese American boy as he learns how to skate, how to flirt, and how to love his mom during the final month of summer before starting high school.We paired Didi with the Bodega Lagarde Atlas Cumbres Torrontés, a white wine from Argentina. The mountains on the label had us reflecting on our own teenage years, and how those messy, chaotic moments shaped us into who we are.Pour a glass and join us for the newest episode of The Miss Independent Podcast.

Happy Holidays, Miss Indie listeners!For this week's midseason finale, we're discussing the 2008 film, Lovely Still. The film follows Robert, an elderly bachelor, whose quiet life is disrupted when his new neighbor, Mary, asks him out, and an unexpected romance begins to bloom.This week, we paired Lovely, Still with the 2017 Chardonnay from Mon Frère Winery. This wine offers delicate golden hues with aromas of citrus and pair, complimented by notes of vanilla and nutmeg.Mon Frère - French for "my brother," or in this case, my friend - is dedicated to my co-host Emily, in honor of the friendships that make life worthwhile.To our listeners: Enjoy the holidays, and please remember to take care of yourselves. We'll be back in February with new episodes. Until then, catch up on our full catalog and our first 3 Uncorked interviews on Youtube.Until the next sip...

In this episode, we explore Past Lives, the tender A24 film that delves into the fascinating concept of InYun—the belief that the threads of connection between people stretch across lifetimes. We unpack how identity, longing, and the notion of soulmates shape the characters’ journeys, and why this story resonates so deeply with anyone who’s ever wondered about the paths not taken. Join us as we explore love, fate, and the invisible ties that pull us across time.Pairing this film with Clean Slate Riesling from Mosel, Germany felt like a natural choice. This crisp wine brings bright acidity with a touch of sweetness - reflecting the film’s emotional contrasts. Its clean refreshing profile mirrors Nora’s pull between past and present, while its subtle fruit notes add a gentle nostalgia. It’s a fitting match for a story defined by longing and unspoken connections.And just for fun, Emily decided to surprise everyone with a second beverage: a Blueberry Soju, as a nod to the Korean roots at the heart of the film. Light, juicy, and (dangerously) smooth, it went down a little too easily, adding a playful twist to an episode filled with reflection, emotion, and perhaps a touch of fate?

This week, we're diving into the 2025 film Hedda. Writer-director Nia DaCosta brings a bold, contemporary edge to Henrik Isben's classic play, crafting a story that's intimate and unsettling. At its center is Hedda, played by Tessa Thompson, a woman caught between the haunting pull of an old love and the quiet suffocation she feels in her life with her husband, George.We paired Hedda with Gulp Hablo Orange, an unfiltered Spanish orange wine made from Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc. It brings bright dried citrus and subtle herbal notes, finishing with a crisp, savory edge.

This week, we’re unpacking the emotional messiness of Sorry, Baby : the bond between friends, the trauma that simmers in silence, and how the film portrays healing through connection. Expect character deep dives, standout scenes, and our take on how the movie handles pain…plus the usual chaos and unfiltered laughter.And because every great film deserves the perfect pour, we paired Sorry, Baby with Freedom Pet Nat. It’s bright, joyful, and easily one of our favorite bottles of the season. Even its name feels on-theme, mirroring the protagonist’s yearning to break free from her hurt. Its fizzy, uplifting vibe cuts through the film’s heavier moments, offering a reminder that joy and healing can live side by side.

This one's for all the musicians and creatives out there!This week, we're diving into Sing Street (2016). Set in recession-era Dublin during the 1980's, the film follows Conor, a teen who's uprooted from his private school and thrown into a rougher inner-city environment. While navigating new challenges, he finds escape and identity by starting a band. What follows is a story filled with humor, heart, and a whole lot of music-driven hope.For this episode, we've paired Sing Street with a 2022 Cannonball Merlot. It's a smooth, bold and fruit-forward wine with a touch of vanilla. The perfect vibe for a movie all about hitting the right notes.

This week, we're discussing the 1997 comedy-drama action film Postman Blues. The story follows Sawaki, a quiet postman who is mistakenly identified as a criminal, setting off a chain of chaos. As he drifts into the wrong places at the wrong times, we watch him stumble into danger, unexpected connections, and even a bit of love.We paired Postman Blues with Val de Mer's French Sparkling Brut Nature Rosé. Like the film, this rosé is unpredictable, energetic, and full of character. Its crisp bubbles and bright acidity match the movie's chaotic momentum, while its subtle complexity mirrors Sawaki's unexpected depth. It's a pairing that feels light at first sip, but leaves a lingering impression.

Buckle up! This week, we’re talking Daddio (2023) - a film that takes place almost entirely in a New York taxi, where two strangers venture into a conversation that’s anything but small talk. We unpack its one-location intensity, the complications of an affair with a married man, and why the truth can be easier to face when it comes from someone you’ll never see again. Along for the ride is Bacchus Pinot Noir 2023 - bold, vibrant and introspective, with notes of red cherry and pomegranate that unfold into a silky, balanced finish unlike any we’ve tasted.Much like Daddio, this wine has a story of connection - between father and daughter, between strangers, between the past and what’s still waiting ahead.Every sip carries a quiet story, waiting to be shared.

👻Happy Halloween, you saints and sinners!🎃This week, we're diving into A Dark Song (2016), a haunting tale about a determined young woman, Sophia, and a damaged occultist, Joseph, who risk their lives and souls to perform a dangerous ritual that promises to grant them their deepest desires.And what better pairing for this eerie indie film than a spooky, bold red? We're sipping on The 7 Deadly Zins, a full-bodied Zinfandel bursting with blackberry and plum notes that'll make you go WAZAAAA (you'll get it once you listen to the episode).🍷

This week, we're diving into Frank, the offbeat underground film about a mysterious frontman who sings his thoughts, hides behind a mask, and leads a band held together by chaos, genius, and just a little bit of madness.We talk about: how pain is often mistaken for art, what it means to perform vulnerability and whether true creativity can survive outside the walls of isolation.From Don’s search for meaning to Clara’s sharp protectiveness and Frank’s strange, beautiful mind, this film asks one big question: What does it really mean to be original?We’re pairing it with the 2021 Four-Track Demo from the Finger Lakes, a wine as offbeat and inventive as the film itself. In the words of winemaker Ian Barry, it’s “experimental, lively, and full of fresh ideas - all the things you expect from a four-track demo.” A bistro red that plays well with a chill, it is bright, juicy, and just a little wild. Expect vibrant acidity, crushed herbs, black pepper, and a hint of something floral and unexpected, like a melody you didn’t see coming but can’t stop humming. 

And just like that, it's Tuesday again!This week, we're cooking up a conversation about Chef (2014), Jon Favreau's heartwarming story of rediscovering creativity and connection through food. Our pairing is The Critic Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley, a bold and smooth wine with notes of blackberry, plum, and mocha notes. It's the perfect reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and return to what feeds your soul.

In this episode, we unpack On Becoming a Guinea Fowl - a layered and visually striking A24-style drama set in Zambia. Through stunning cinematography and overlapping dialogue, the film explores generational trauma, the silences surrounding sexual abuse, and the journey of becoming, not just a bird, but a fully seen human being. To pair, we’re pouring the Babylonstoren Red Blend, a wine as complex and bold as the film itself. With deep notes of dark fruit, a touch of spice and that unmistakable vanilla bean finish, it mirrors the film’s emotional weight and nuanced storytelling.  As Patrick would say “It’s giving Rahhh”.This is not a sip-and-scroll kind of wine; it demands your attention, just like the story it accompanies.It’s a fascinating film - a word we thoroughly overuse in this episode to describe just about everything…

This week, we’re riding shotgun into one of 2025’s most gripping thrillers. Starring Taron Egerton and Ana Sophia Heger, She Rides Shotgun follows a newly released ex-con who must protect his daughter at all costs from a corrupt sheriff and a dangerous gang.And for our wine pairing? We decided to shake things up: Walked into the wine store, grabbed a random bottle, and came out with Chateau La Grange Clinet 2021. It’s a bold Bordeaux red blend with a deep ruby color and notes of plummy fruit, spices, and just a touch of oak.

In this episode, we sink our teeth into Only Lovers Left Alive (2013), Jim Jarmusch’s slow-burning vampire film that’s more mood than plot.We talk loneliness, love, and the slow decay of meaning in a world that won’t stop spinning.Is eternal life a gift or a curse when the world is losing its soul?This isn’t just a vampire movie, it’s an existential hangout with deathless romantics watching it all fade, one vinyl record at a time.To pair with the film’s dusky, melancholic tone, we uncork the 2020 Merlot from Vampire Wines - a rich, velvety red that is brooding and smooth, much like Tom Hiddleston’s Adam. Dark fruit, subtle spice, and just a hint of bloodlust,  it’s the perfect companion for a film that savors time, music, and memory.

This week, we're diving into the Oscar-nominated documentary, Minding the Gap (2018). The film follows the lives of three young men who find connection and freedom through skateboarding, using it as an escape from their difficult home environments.We paired this film with Otto's Constant Dream, a Pinot Noir from Marlborough, New Zealand. With vibrant notes of red and black fruits rounded out by earthy, smoky undertones, it's a layered wine that reflects the complexity of the film itself.

This week we dive into Song of the Sea (2014), a breathtakingly unique animated film rooted in folklore and magic. The story follows Ben, a boy navigating grief, sibling bonds, and Irish folklore after the loss of his mother. His journey with his sister Saoirse unfolds in a world of myth, music, and memory. Between admiring its stunning artistry and getting lost in selkie myths, Patrick and I can’t help but slip into plenty of silly moments along the way. To pair with the film, we sipped on Miha Sauvignon Blanc 2024 - crisp and citrusy, with a label featuring a mama whale and her calf. Just like the movie’s selkie child and her mother, the wine reminds us of the deep bond between parent and child that runs through the story. Make sure to stay until the end to hear this week’s question, you won’t want to miss it.If you’re into folklore, heartfelt stories, or just want to laugh with us, this episode’s for you!

In this episode, we pair Sing Sing (2023), a moving story of resilience, creativity, and hope inside Sing Sing Correctional Facility, with the 2023 Unshackled Sauvignon Blanc.Colman Domingo leads a narrative that shows the power of art as incarcerated individuals find purpose through theater. Bright, crisp, and boldly named, Unshackled Sauvignon Blanc mirrors this journey, capturing the spirit of freedom and possibility.

Welcome back for Season 3! We’re kicking things off with a bang (or rather, a scooter chase) in Thelma 2024, starring the unstoppable June Squibb. This sharp, heartfelt action-comedy isn’t just about revenge and internet scams, it’s a celebration of badass grandmas, aging boldly, and going out on your own terms.Join us as we talk aging, minions (yes, really), and why Thelma might be the action film of the year.To match Thelma’s bold spirit and unexpected twists, we’re pairing this episode with the 2022 Jeanne Marie Cabernet. With rich notes of black cherry and plum it delivers a smooth finish. Classic in structure but full of personality, this wine refuses to fade into the background — much like Thelma herself.

We haven’t stopped thinking about Origin since we first saw it in theaters last year. It’s one of those stories that lingers long after the credits roll, shifting the way you see the world. Honestly, we were a little nervous to dive into this conversation, given the weight of its subject matter. But here we are — pushing ourselves to ask the hard questions and to keep learning along the way.Directed by Ava DuVernay and based on Isabel Wilkerson’s powerful book, Origin challenges us to reconsider the difference between caste and racism, and to confront the deep societal structures that quietly shape our lives. Wilkerson doesn’t just hand us easy answers; she invites us into the discomfort of asking bigger, harder questions.In this episode, we’re sharing how this film personally moved us — and why we believe Origin should be part of school curriculums everywhere. It’s a conversation we’re proud and excited to share with you.And just like Origin,, the Oracle Cellars 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon invites reflection on the struggle and complexity of the human experience. With its deep red fruit, herbal notes, and a subtle touch of green pepper, it mirrors the layered, often complicated history that rises to the surface through tension and perseverance. The image of Sisyphus on the label is a striking reminder of humanity’s relentless struggle — much like the ongoing work of understanding the systems that continue to shape our world today.

CODA follows Ruby, the only hearing member of her deaf family, as she tries to balance her love for music with her deep loyalty to the people who raised her. It's a heartfelt story set in a small fishing town, full of humor and moments that really hit home.The 2018 Wild Horse Cabernet Sauvignon is bold but approachable, with just the right amount of depth - like CODA itself. It's the kind of wine that lets you settle in, feel everything a little more deeply, and really connect with story unfolding on screen.

This week, we follow Billi as she navigates the pull between American individuality and Chinese tradition. When her family hides a terminal diagnosis from her grandmother, she's forced to confront the values that shaped her—and the ones she's grown into. Join us as we explore what it means to be lost—and how sometimes we have to look back at where we come from to figure out where we’re going.A story of identity, tradition, and truth—The Farewell pairs beautifully with La Maldita 2023, a wine born from challenge and heritage. Its label, a woman mid-scream, mirrors Billi’s silent internal struggle—torn between cultures, unable to speak her truth.Rich, emotional, and deeply rooted—just like this garnacha.

This week, we're discussing All of Us Strangers — a tender, haunting story about Adam, a lonely queer screenwriter who forms an unexpected connection with his neighbor, Harry. As their relationship deepens, Adam returns to his childhood home and finds his long-dead parents seemingly alive, forcing him to confront a past he's never truly let go of.It feels only right to pair All Of Us Strangers with the 2019 Riesling Papi - both are unexpectedly delicate and deeply layered. The Riesling brings a soft sweetness and a crisp, nostalgic finish that mirror's the film's exploration of memory and longing. It's the kind of wine that lingers on the palate the same way the story lingers in your chest.

Join us as we explore The Fall – a visually stunning tale blending fantasy and emotional realism. This vibrant story of suicide and survival, told through a child's eyes, is sure to captivate fans of Big Fish and What Dreams May Come.  And just remember, don’t spell morphine with a 3 instead of an E!This week, the witch has selected Caruso & Minini Arancino 2023, a Sicilian orange wine that mirrors the film's rich layers and complexity. With its golden yellow hue, notes of candied citrus and herbs, and a persistent finish, this organic wine pairs perfectly with the emotional depth and vibrancy of the film. A true pairing of magic and flavor.

This week, we're diving into the 2013 film Under the Skin. It follows an alien disguised as a woman (Scarlett Johansson) who roams Scotland, seducing lonely men into a strange, dark trap—until she starts to question who she really is.The Areo Patagonia Argentina 2022 Malbec is a perfect match for Under the Skin—its dark fruit flavors and smooth texture capture the film's eerie vibe. Plus, coming from the remote landscapes of Patagonia, it pairs nicely with the film's haunting, isolated feel.

In this fun coming-of-age story, we explore the timeless question: If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self? There’s no wrong answer, but the one in this film might just surprise you. Join us as we take a reflective journey through memories, personal antics, and the very essence of what makes a home.As we reflect on childhood memories, why not pair this journey with a glass of Bernard Griffin Sauvignon Blanc 2023? Created at a family-owned winery, this bright and fresh wine, with its blend of tangerine, honeydew, and lime, perfectly complements the warmer weather we’re (hopefully) about to enjoy. It’s a refreshing companion to this story of reflection and nostalgia.Yeah…we’ve said reflect a lot. At this point, we might need a dictionary intervention, but you know…it’s just that kind of episode!

This week, we're traveling back to 2016 to discuss Captain Fantastic. This film follows a devoted father raising his kids off the grid, teaching them self-sufficiency and a deep appreciation for the world around them. But when they're forced to reenter mainstream society, their beliefs are challenged, and they begin to question everything they've been taught. Equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking, Captain Fantastic sparks a powerful conversation about what it truly means to raise a family the “right” way.And for today's episode, we're pairing it with a Birch Wine from Meadowdale Winery—because what better way to dive into this story than with something just as unique?

A beautifully crafted homage to classic horror films, The Substance is a grotesque, disturbing, and utterly unique experience - one that will have you covering your eyes to preserve your sanity. This film is not for the faint of heart. With bold, brutal choices and a focused vision, it leaves you grappling with a haunting question that ties the entire movie together: Who will be the next Elisabeth Sparkle?As we dive into a movie about addiction, we wanted to offer a wine that’s both accessible and inclusive for everyone.Can't drink alcohol? No worries, we've got you covered!For today’s episode, we’re featuring Vinada Rosé, a Spanish wine that captures the essence of summer. Light and refreshing, it doesn’t skimp on quality. This fresh wine provides a guilt-free indulgence for all to enjoy.It is a sparkling, fine and fruity wine! 

Step into 1920s Harlem, where childhood friends Clare and Irene reconnect in a hotel dining room—only for Irene to realize that Clare has been passing as white.Rebecca Hall makes her directorial debut with Passing, a visually stunning and thought-provoking adaptation.For this episode, we paired Passing with a Sauvignon Blanc from The McBride Sisters Collection. Both are elegant and complex—just like the film’s black-and-white cinematography, this wine is crisp and refined, with layers waiting to be uncovered.

It may seem as though life is coming to an end, but what if it’s just the beginning? DescribingFlow may be impossible to put into words, which is ironic because this film is completely void of dialogue. Relying on realistic animal sounds, director Gints Zilbalodis  takes us on a whirlwind adventure of survival and friendship led by a black house cat and his ragtag band of misfit animals. A film with never ending interpretations, you may find yourself answering all of life’s questions. But the real question remains, how do you say capybara? Lo Brujo Garnacha, with a label that perfectly represents the movie, is both light and expressive. A round and well balanced wine, it is full of cherries, spice and everything nice. Mama approves! Let it flow! 

Take a trip to 1950’s Mexico City where we join Lee on his quest of self discovery. Artistic, bold and full of symbolism, this is an abstract journey into the psyche. When the time comes, are we able face who we are - even the parts we try so desperately to hide? Described as both ethereal and complex, the Red Newt Gewurtztraminer 2021 definitely delivers!Bold, refreshing and full of fruity aromas, its loud personality will be hard to forget.

We made it! Thank you for joining us for our finale episode of the season . Choosing a film to leave you with for the New Year was not easy…but once we found Little Miss Sunshine it felt like an obvious choice! Full of family drama, some funky moves and a trip that changes everything, this film is a stark reminder that the road to success can blind us to the things that truly matter.To celebrate our journey we decided it was time to dive in to a beautiful bottle of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé Champagne, a bottle that was kindly gifted to us at our podcast launch. Being the first and only Rosé of the season we wanted to go big and celebrate all we have accomplished. And what a perfect pairing for the film, it is bright, crisp and full of fizz!

In this week’s episode we chat about my (Emily’s) favorite indie film, Billy Elliot. In Northern England during the 1984-85 miner’s strike,11 year old Billy, a working class boy is torn between his love for dance and his dedication to his family. With unforgettable characters and an inspiring story, this film takes you on an emotional rollercoaster and encourages you to always fight for what you believe in. We chose Intrinsic Cabernet Sauvignon for the striking label and inside we discovered a wine layered with notes of cherries, pomegranate and cocoa - she is rustic, she is bold and she is full of character, much like the film. With this combination, you are in for an experience that is uniquely your own. 

Today, we're talking about my (Patrick's) favorite independent film: Cinema Paradiso. This film follows Salvatore, aka Toto, returning to his hometown for the funeral of local movie theater film projectionist, Alfredo. Told through flashbacks and present times, we follow Toto discover his love for film and the events that follow.Cinema Paradiso is a personal reminder that love comes in various forms, and to never stop following your dreams. We have one life, and it's worth to make every moment count.Paired with this beloved film, we chose Cantine Colosi Nero D’Avola, a Sicilian wine from a region near the home of the film. This is a dry, full bodied wine with an engaging personality. With its dark red fruitiness and hints of cherry, it is a wine that is best shared in good company .

Life is messy and unpredictable. Through a uniquely non-linear narrative, we follow the love story between Tobias and Almut as their love challenges the very limits of time. This is a story about how we live, how we die, and how we want to be remembered. The fragments of each person’s life are what make them whole. Today’s episode is paired with Aljibes Syrah from 2020, a cherry-red wine with spicy aromas and hints of chocolate. This red wine blend is elegant, wonderfully intense and has a bitter edge. Despite it’s classic, unassuming label, this wine is full of surprises.

And…we’re back! Starting off this week with the beautiful Perfect Days. This film follows Hirayama; a man of routine and minimalistic lifestyle. When he’s not at work cleaning toilets, you’ll find him reading books or staring up at the trees. A film about being grateful for the little things in life and finding stillness in a bustling city. For this film, we paired Juan Gil, a Silver Label from 2020. With a label that not only mirrors moments of the film, but also encapsulates Hirayama’s love for nature. This Spanish Red Wine is rich and fruity, with undertones of blackberries and dark chocolate.

Tuesday has been best described as a Studio Ghibli film brought to life. By personifying death in the form of a macaw, it examines our existence using fantasy and wit.In typical A24 fashion, this film delivers a fresh perspective on a familiar theme through its artistry and originality.Using the label as inspiration, we matched Scopa, a light Pinot Grigio with hints of apple, white flowers and pear to offset the heavy theme of this film. The silky smooth notes in this organic wine are not only refreshing but come with a citrusy surprise as well. 

In this week’s episode we talk about the newly released neo-noir thriller, Magpie. A fractured psyche, female rage and a plan to seek revenge. First-time director Sam Yates, has created a film that very much benefits from the saying “the less you know, the better”.Gnarly Head's Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp and light bodied wine. With its green apple, lemon and honeydew blend it delivers a sweet and zesty finish.

MISSING PERSONSHeather Donahue, Joshua Leonard, and Michael Williams.A revolutionary marketing strategy paired with a story so convincing that Heather Donahue’s mother received sympathy cards from strangers about her daughter’s disappearance and presumed death. With authentically amateurish camerawork and much left to the imagination, this indie film paved the path for the found-footage genre. The wine selected for this episode is from Barnstormer Winery, located in a 170 year old, pre civil war built barn in the Finger Lakes. A flavorful Gruner Veltliner with notes of ginger and lemongrass. This is a dry and complex wine with a bite at the end that leaves you wanting more.