PODCAST · tv
Cinema: A to B
by Alec Mallmann & Ben Starkey
Meet Alec and Ben, long-time friends who previously worked in Hollywood. Together they're discussing movies and streaming series while occasionally sharing their experiences in the industry. This is not a traditional movie review it's Cinema: A to B.
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163
City of God (2002) revisited
Is City of God the best film of 2002 (2003 US release)? Alec and Ben make their case following a rewatch of the brutal and brilliant Brazilian film written by Bráulio Mantovani and Paulo Lins, directed by Kátia Lund and Fernando Meirelles and starring Alexandre Rodrigues, Leandro Firmino, Phellipe Haagensen, Seu Jorge and Alice Braga. The guys break down the cinematography, performances and why the film was ahead of its time. Image by eacuna from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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162
Train Dreams (2025)
A spoiler filled analysis and conversation on the Oscar nominated Train Dreams written and directed by Clint Bentley from the Denis Johnson novella and starring Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones and William H. Macy. Join Alec and Ben as they explore the film's themes, cinematography, standout performances and emotional impact. Image by Igor Makarevich from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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161
Avatar: Fire and Ash (2025)
Spoiler Warning. A candid critique of the third entry in James Cameron's Avatar series, focusing on the narrative shortcomings, visual spectacle, and character development across Avatar: Fire and Ash starring Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang and Oona Chaplin. Image by hartono subagio from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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160
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) revisited
A look back at the iconic Robin Williams performance as the titular character Mrs. Doubtfire. Directed by Chris Columbus and also starring Sally Field and Pierce Brosnan. Alec and Ben explore Williams' comedic brilliance, emotional depth, and the film's cultural impact. They share personal stories, analyze the film's themes, and reflect on Williams' legacy as a performer. Cover art by Testet95 Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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159
One Battle After Another (2025)
A SPOILER filled discussion on Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro and Teyana Taylor. The guys discuss and critique the film's premise, messaging, performances and cinematography. The episode wraps up with a conversation on the slate best picture nominees for the 98th Academy Awards. Image by Donna B. McNicol from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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158
Arrival (2016) revisited
A Season of Sci-Fi concludes with an analysis and discussion of Denis Villeneuve's 2016 film Arrival starring Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner and Forest Whitaker. Alec discusses where he ranks the film among Villeneuve's filmography. Ben critiques the film's unique cinematography. The guys talk through how the script tricks viewers expecting a linear narrative. Image by Zaimhel Syakir from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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157
Blade Runner 2049 (2017) revisited
A Season of Sci-Fi entry 12 is a look back at Denis Villeneuve's Blade Runner 2049 starring Harrison Ford, Ryan Gosling and Ana de Armas. Join Alec and Ben as they discuss why the film is a worthy follow-up to the iconic Ridley Scott directed Blade Runner. Image by Roger Jeffreys from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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156
The Abyss (1989) revisited
A Season of Sci-Fi episode 11 features a lesser known James Cameron picture with the 1989 deep sea action film The Abyss starring Ed Harris, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Michael Biehn. The guys discuss the dangerous and difficult filming conditions, stunning VFX, narrative critiques and finally touch on a film that they don't really agree on. Image by Tabby Cat from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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155
Alien (1979) & Aliens (1986) revisited
A rewatch and discussion on the first two landmark films in the Alien franchise from legendary directors Sir Ridley Scott and James Cameron and starring Sigourney Weaver. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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154
Star Wars Original Trilogy ('77-'83) revisited
The ninth entry in A Season of Sci-Fi lands with a sprawling discussion and celebration of George Lucas's iconic trilogy of Star Wars: A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi as well as many of the related properties that followed. Join Alec and Ben for a tangent filled conversation on the science fiction world that inspired a generation of fans and filmmakers alike. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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153
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982) revisited
Entry eight in A Season of Sci-Fi is a conversation on the second Star Trek feature film Wrath of Khan directed by Nicholas Meyer and starring William Shatner, Ricardo Montalban, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, Kirstie Alley and Bibi Besch. Join Alec and Ben as they discuss where arguably the best Trek film has aged well and where it frankly hasn't. The conversation tangents across multiple Trek films and the Star Wars comparisons are... inevitable. Image by WikiImages from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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152
The Fifth Element (1997) revisited
Entry seven of A Season of Sci-Fi is Luc Besson's 1997 film The Fifth Element starring Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman, Ian Holm and Chris Tucker. Join the guys for a laughter filled discussion on a beloved late 90s romp. Cover art by Norio Nakayama Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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151
A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001) revisited
It's A Season of Sci-Fi entry six and another Steven Spielberg picture with the 2001 adventure-drama A.I. Artificial Intelligence starring Haley Joel Osment, Jude Law and Frances O'Connor. The guys marvel at a film well ahead of its time. Ben makes his case on why this is likely Osment's best performance to date. Alec dispels a misconception regarding the late Stanley Kubrick's involvement with the film. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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150
District 9 (2009) revisited
A Season of Sci-Fi entry five takes another look at the groundbreaking alien action film District 9 from writer-director Neil Blomkamp and starring Sharlto Copley. Alec and Ben discuss why the film has aged so well and how its raw grounded nature makes it a landmark entry in the genre. Image by vantomen from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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149
Ad Astra (2019) revisited
For the fourth entry in A Season of Sci-Fi the guys break down the 2019 James Gray film starring Brad Pitt and Tommy Lee Jones. Join the conversation as Alec and Ben discuss both why the film didn't find an audience and why is deserves another look six years later. Image by Pexels from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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148
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) revisited
For entry number three in A Season of Sci-Fi Alec and Ben backtrack five years before E.T. to 1977 with Spielberg's definitive entry in the UFO genre with Close Encounters of the Third Kind starring Richard Dreyfuss, Francois Truffaut, Teri Garr and Melinda Dillon. The guys discuss the merits of the film along with the evolution of the UAP phenomena over the past 48 years. Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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147
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) revisited
The second entry in A Season of Sci-Fi arrives with a conversation on Steven Spielberg's 1982 alien adventure film E.T. starring Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, Peter Coyote, Dee Wallace and Robert MacNaughton. The guys discuss how it differs from Close Encounters of the Third Kind and how unique Spielberg truly is in the pantheon of great film directors. Image by Robert Karkowski from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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146
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) revisited
Back from hiatus the guys kick off a 13 episode Season of Sci-Fi with a conversation on Stanley Kubrick's 1968 film, it's place as a technical standard bearer for the genre and why major portions of its plot remain as relevant as ever nearly 60 years later. Image by OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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145
Training Day (2001) revisited
The guys discuss why Antoine Fuqua's 2001 crime drama, Training Day, starring Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke demands a rewatch. Ben makes his case why 2001 was a banner year for cinema. Image by Jose Aitor Pons Buigues from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Cinema: A to B Merch - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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144
Sherlock Holmes (2009) revisited
A rewatch and conversation on director Guy Ritchie's take on the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle detective starring Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Rachel McAdams and Mark Strong. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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143
The Last of the Mohicans (1992) revisited
The guys discuss the strengths and weaknesses of Michael Mann's 1992 adaptation of the James Fenimore Cooper novel, The Last of the Mohicans, starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Madeleine Stowe, Russell Means, Eric Schweig, Jodhi May, Steven Waddington and Wes Studi. Image by Loren Biser from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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142
Fletch (1985) revisited
A listener request arrives in the form of the 1985 Chevy Chase comedy Fletch. Join the guys as they discuss what makes this 80s comedy centered around a wise-cracking newspaper reporter both unique and worth a rewatch. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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141
Spy Game (2001) revisited
The guys converse on why the espionage thriller from the late great director Tony Scott is worth a rewatch. It's Spy Game (2001) starring the late Robert Redford, Brad Pitt, Catherine McCormack and Stephen Dillane. Image by Mary Campos from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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140
Mickey 17 (2025)
Spoiler Warning. Alec and Ben break down writer-director Bong Joon Ho's sci-fi satire Mickey 17 adapted from the Edward Ashton novel (Mickey 7) and starring Robert Pattinson, Steven Yeun, Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo and Toni Collette. Image by Parker_West from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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139
Manhunter (1986) revisited
A look back at the 1986 Michael Mann adaptation of the Thomas Harris Red Dragon novel starring William Petersen, Brian Cox, Dennis Farina and Tom Noonan. Alec details a very recent first time viewing and the guys compare and contrast the film with its later version (2002's Red Dragon) as well as the Hannibal TV series starring Mads Mikkelsen. From casting, performances and Mann's direction Alec and Ben make their case why this version is the better outing. Cover Image: High Museum of Art by Aleksandr Zykov is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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138
Superman (2025)
Spoiler Warning. The guys unpack the James Gunn Superman reboot starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan and Nicholas Hoult. Join Alec and Ben for performance breakdowns, super-hero fatigue, the relaunch of the DCEU, Man of Steel comparisons and more! Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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137
Sinners (2025)
Spoilers ahead as Alec and Ben discuss the 2025 folk horror film from writer/director Ryan Coogler. The guys break down the performances of Michael B. Jordan, Miles Caton, Jack O'Connell and Delroy Lindo. Alec and Ben discuss the film's cinematography while second guessing their decision to not see the film in IMAX. The guys wrap up by delving into the film's thematic elements and its unique depictions of temptation and evil. Image by rjdoc from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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136
Secondhand Lions (2003) revisited
Alec and Ben take on another listener request this time in the form of the 2003 coming-of-age film Secondhand Lions written and directed by Tim McCanlies and starring Haley Joel Osment, Michael Caine and Robert Duvall. Image by Thorsten Dahl from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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135
Backdraft (1991) revisited
It's a listener request for the 1991 Ron Howard firefighter action-drama starring Kurt Russell, William Baldwin, Robert De Niro and Donald Sutherland. Ben explains why the film is both a standard bearer for the genre as well as wildly uneven. Alec discusses notable differences in the film's early transfers vs the more recent 4K remaster. The guys marvel at the depth of the cast including the late J.T. Walsh. Alec discusses how the film makes fire an actual character as well as what the movie gets right in the life of a firefighter. Ben reflects on the strength of practical effects and the now defunct Universal Studios Backdraft attraction. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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134
Shogun - Season 1 (2024)
A spoiler filled discussion on the FX/Hulu original series starring Cosmo Jarvis, Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano and Hiroyuki Sanada. Alec compares and contrasts the series with the novel from James Clavell. Ben praises the series technical prowess while expressing his concerns over pacing. The guys discuss the standout performances and Ben notes a favorite previous film/role featuring Tadanobu Asano. Alec explains why the series could've extended the book adaptation into two seasons and expresses concerns over future seasons of the show. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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133
Rear Window (1954) revisited
The stunning set piece, the performances, the suspense... join Alec and Ben for an in depth discussion on the 1954 Alfred Hitchcock masterpiece starring James Stewart, Grace Kelly and Raymond Burr. Ben ranks the film among the rest of Hitchcock's catalogue while Alec explains why the New York set piece was so ground breaking. The guys celebrate the iconic acting performances in Rear Window. Alec discusses other note worthy James Stewart roles while Ben explains what most of the all time great directors (including Hitchcock) have in common. The conversation rounds out with Ben's connection to a more recent quasi-remake of the film at Dreamworks. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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132
Warcraft (2016) revisited
Back from their summer hiatus the guys take another look at the 2016 video game film adaptation Warcraft starring Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster and Dominic Cooper. Alec explains what worked and what didn't with the film's casting. Ben pinpoints big issues with the film's narrative while praising its visuals. The guys share their own experiences with the Blizzard Entertainment MMORPG World of Warcraft while citing missed opportunities with the movie adaptation. Image by Chil Vera from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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131
Jaws (1975) revisited
Alec and Ben celebrate the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg's iconic film Jaws. They discuss its impact on cinema, the challenges faced during production, and the film's masterful storytelling and character dynamics. The conversation delves into the thematic elements and symbolism present in the film, as well as its lasting cultural relevance and influence on the horror genre. The hosts reflect on their personal experiences with the film and its significance in film history, emphasizing its status as a cinematic masterpiece. Image by Michaela 💗 from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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130
F1: The Movie (2025)
A spoiler filled discussion on the 2025 racing blockbuster from director Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Javier Bardem and Kerry Condon. The guys explain why the film demands to be seen in the IMAX format. Alec critiques the performances of Pitt and Bardem while Ben explains what worked and what didn't with the character conflict between Sonny Hayes (Pitt) and Joshua Pearce (Idris). The guys compare the film with two other recent racing features and discuss the recently teased potential Days of Thunder crossover sequel. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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129
Attack the Block (2011) revisited
The guys take another look at the 2011 sci-fi comedy Attack the Block from writer-director Joe Cornish and starring John Boyega and Jodie Whittaker. Alec and Ben reflect on the film's merits. Alec explains why he disagreed with friends back in 2011 who raved about the movie. Ben gives two key reasons the film never found an audience. The guys lament the demise of the superb Los Angeles area ArcLight Cinemas. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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128
Whiplash (2014) revisited
Alec and Ben take another look at Damien Chazelle's acclaimed film Whiplash starring Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons. They discuss the film's technical brilliance, the powerful performances, particularly by J.K. Simmons, and the moral questions raised by the film. The conversation also touches on the importance of editing, the challenges of filmmaking, and the sacrifices made in the quest for greatness. The guys reflect on their personal experiences and the impact of the film, encouraging listeners to engage with it deeply. Image by StockSnap from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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127
Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning (2025)
A spoiler filled conversation on the 8th entry in the Mission Impossible franchise starring Tom Cruise. The guys discuss the benefits of seeing the film in IMAX, pacing and exposition issues, as well as the film's two massive action sequences. Ben discusses the impact Covid had on production while Alec delves into the film's villain as well as franchise callback moments. The guys wrap things up talking the future of the franchise and potential reboot ideas. Image by Manfred Richter from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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126
Unbreakable (2000) revisited
The guys revisit the M. Night Shyamalan thriller starring Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson, Robin Wright and Spencer Treat Clark. Ben explains how the film's main theme is more timely than ever. Alec compares the film's twist with other Shyamalan films. Alec and Ben converse on the complex nature of the film's villain. The conversation wraps up on the career trajectory of M. Night. Image by StockSnap from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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125
Andor - Season 2 (2025)
An expanded and spoiler filled episode as Alec and Ben unpack their most anticipated show of 2025 with the second and final season of Andor. Alec discusses how a Star Wars outsider in Tony Gilroy breathed new life into the franchise. Ben compares and contrasts the shows first and second seasons. The guys converse on the challenge of viewer expectations, how the final season impacts Rogue One/A New Hope, and it's legacy within the SW universe. Image by Hans from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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124
Guest Richard Bazley: From Disney Animator to Film Director
Hollywood veteran Richard Bazley recounts his path from growing up in rural England to Disney animator, CGI artist, storyboard artist and ultimately a transition to Emmy-nominated director. Richard's animation credits include Who Framed Roger Rabbit, All Dogs Go to Heaven, Hercules and The Iron Giant. Richard gives insight into the demise of 2D animation and his journey of persistence and adaptation in an industry where the only constant is change. Richard discusses his recent short films Confines (2023) and Censure (2022) which have garnered nearly 70 international film festival awards as well as his future projects. Richard Bazley's Official Site: https://bazleyfilms.wordpress.com/ Stream Confines (2023) https://fawesome.tv/movies/10676623/confines Stream Censure (2022) https://fawesome.tv/movies/10676624/censure Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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123
Warfare (2025)
SPOILER WARNING. Alec and Ben break down the war film directed by Alex Garland and former US Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza based on Mendoza's combat experience in Ramadi, Iraq in 2006. Image by Aline (Алевтина) Mueller from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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122
The Game (1997) revisited
A look back at the 1997 David Fincher thriller starring Michael Douglas, Deborah Kara Unger and Sean Penn. The guys explore The Game's aesthetic, character development, and thematic elements. They discuss Michael Douglas's performance, the film's cinematography, and the impact of its minimal score. The conversation also touches on the film's pacing, viewer engagement, and its legacy within Fincher's body of work, highlighting the director's unique style and the film's psychological depth. Image by Foundry Co from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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121
A Real Pain (2024)
A spoiler-light discussion on the Jesse Eisenberg written and directed dramedy starring Kieran Culkin (Best Supporting Actor Winner) and Jesse Eisenberg. Image by Enrique from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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120
Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood (2019) revisited
Join Cinema: A to B for a celebration of the golden age of Hollywood with a humor filled look back at Quentin Tarantino's 9th film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie. Alec discusses the performances and chemistry of DiCaprio and Pitt. Ben converses on the film's historical context and how that conflict affects the viewer. The guys address that controversial Bruce Lee scene as well as the film's notable cast full of Hollywood up and comers. The conversation rounds out with a discussion of what would have been Tarantino's 10th and final film. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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119
The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004) revisited
A return to the 2004 Wes Anderson comedy starring Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Cate Blanchett, Anjelica Huston, and Willem Dafoe. Ben compares and contrasts Anderson's early vs. recent filmography. Alec praises the performances of Bill Murray and Willem Dafoe. The guys converse on the film's incredible set pieces and frequent nods to the process of filmmaking. The discussion rounds out on Anderson's unique approach to comedy, screenwriting prowess, and his ability to seamlessly transition from the comedic to the tragic in The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. Image by Alexandra_Koch from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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118
Tombstone (1993) revisited
Alec and Ben revisit the 1993 Western film Tombstone, discussing its all-star cast, particularly the late Val Kilmer's iconic performance as Doc Holliday. The guys explore the film's controversial direction, character dynamics, and the historical context surrounding the events depicted. The conversation also touches on the cinematography and visual style of the film, as well as reflections on Kilmer's career and the legacy of Tombstone in the Western genre. Image by icondigital from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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117
Interstellar (2014) revisited
A closer look at Christopher Nolan's 2014 space epic Interstellar starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain and Matt Damon. Join Alec and Ben as they rank the film in their own hierarchy of Nolan pictures as well as performance breakdowns, cinematography, editing, and a discussion on the film's iconic score by Hans Zimmer. The conversation shifts to the film's scientific accuracy and the brutal nature of Einstein's theory of relativity before rounding out on Nolan's future projects and current status as one of the premier filmmakers working today. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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116
High Fidelity (2000) revisited
25 years removed Alec and Ben revisit the Stephen Frears directed rom-com exploring its themes, character dynamics, and cultural impact. They discuss the evolution of John Cusack's character, Rob, and the comedic brilliance of Jack Black. The conversation touches on masculinity, relationships, and the role of music in shaping the narrative. The hosts reflect on their personal growth and changing perspectives on the film over the years, highlighting its timelessness and relatability. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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115
Hoosiers (1986) revisited
The guys revisit the 1986 basketball drama directed by David Anspaugh and starring Gene Hackman, Barbara Hershey, and Dennis Hopper. Ben shares his own personal connection with Indiana basketball while Alec marvels at the acting prowess of Hackman. The guys discuss the film's character development, casting, and sometimes contentious production. The conversation shifts to a reflection on the legacy of Gene Hackman as well as lesser known details surrounding Dennis Hopper's academy award nominated performance. The discussion closes on the film's major themes and why Hoosiers remains near the top of the sports film genre. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
A conversation on the seventh entry in the Mission: Impossible franchise starring Tom Cruise quickly turns into a larger discussion on the past, present, and potential future of the spy series. Alec compares and contrasts MI with James Bond while Ben reflects on his favorite entries in the franchise as well as its problematic departure from the original source material. Join the guys for a deep dive on all things IMF as they look towards the May 2025 release of Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Meet Alec and Ben, long-time friends who previously worked in Hollywood. Together they're discussing movies and streaming series while occasionally sharing their experiences in the industry. This is not a traditional movie review it's Cinema: A to B.
HOSTED BY
Alec Mallmann & Ben Starkey
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