Film Rate

This week we're joined by a special guest as we discuss the psychological dark comedy of a group of people that are able to inhabit the mind of a celebrity.(R), 1999Directed by Spike JonzeWritten by Charlie KaufmanStarring John Cusack, Cameron Diaz, Catherine Keener, and John MalkovichMusic by Carter Burwell

Join us this week as we dive into the spoof comedy of slasher classics. (R), 2000Directed by Keenan Ivory WayansWritten by Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, and Buddy JohnsonStarring Anna Faris, Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, and Jon AbrahamsMusic by David Kitay

This week we're heading into the future to visit a sophisticated theme park gone wrong with robots so real that they blur the line between humanity and machine.(PG), 1973Directed by Michael ChrichtonWritten by Michael ChrichtonStarring Yul Brynner, Richard Benjamin, and James BrolinMusic by Fred Karlin

We're back in the old west to see if a crew of nomadic gunslingers can defend a small village of farmers from a band of ruthless bandits.(NR), 1960Directed by John SturgesWritten by William Roberts, Walter Bernstein, and Shinobu HashimotoStarring Yul Brynner, Steve McQueen, Charles Bronson, James Coburn, Horst Buchholz, Robert Vaughn, Brad Dexter, and Eli WallachMusic by Elmer Bernstein

This week we're doing things a little differently. For our 50th episode Dom and I discuss our top 5 favorites of the films we've covered so far as well as a little behind the scenes info. We hope you enjoy it!

This week we're heading south to follow a lawyer and his family who are relentlessly stalked by a sadistic ex-con.(NR), 1962Directed by J. Lee ThompsonWritten by John D. MacDonald, and James R. WebbStarring Robert Mitchum, Gregory Peck, Polly Bergen, Lori Martin, and Martin BalsamMusic by Bernard Herrmann

Join us this week for Día de Muertos as Miguel tries to fulfill his passion for music and uncovers a disturbing truth about his families history. (PG), 2017Directed by Adrian Molina and Lee UnkrichWritten by  Adrian Molina, Matthew Aldrich, Lee Unkrich and Jason KatzStarring Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt,  and Alanna Ubach Music by Michael Giacchino

We join Lupin and gang on a deadly heist to rescue a princess and liberate her kingdom from a nefarious dictator. (PG-13), 1979Directed by Hayao MiyazakiStarring (Japanese) Yasuo Yamada - Lupin III, Kiyoshi Kobayashi - Jigen, Gorô Naya - Zenigata(English) Bob Bergen - Lupin III, Steve Bulen - Jigen, David Povell - ZenigataWritten by Monkey Punch, Maurice Leblanc, and Hayao MiyazakiMusic by Yuji Ohno 

We're going back into the brilliant world of Miyazaki in a spirited journey of a girl's quest to remember herself and save her parents. (PG), 2001Directed by Hayao MiyazakiWritten by Hayao MiyazakiStarring (Japanese) Rumi Hiiragi - Chihiro, Miyu Irino - Haku, Mari Natsuki - Yubaba(English) Daveigh Chase - Chihiro, Jason Marsden - Haku, Suzanne Pleshete - YubabaMusic by Joe Hisaishi

We join the McCallisters in a holiday calamity that results in their youngest son being left behind to defend their home from a pair of notorious burglars. (PG), 1990Directed by Chris ColumbusStarring Macauley Culkin, Joe Pesci, Howard Stern, Catherine O'Hara, John Heard, and John CandyWritten by John HughesMusic by John Williams

We're diving back into the world of Alien with the blockbuster sequel. Listen to find out if Ripley can face her trauma and escape the Aliens once again.(R), 1986Directed by James CameronStarring Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Carrie Henn, Paul Reiser, Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, William Hope, and Jenette GoldsteinWritten by James Cameron, David Giler, and Walter HillMusic by James Horner

This week we join the crew of a space freighter as they encounter a deadly parasitic alien. (R), 1979Directed by Ridley ScottWritten by Dan O'Bannon and Ronald ShusettStarring Sigoureny Weaver, Tom Skerritt, John Hurt, Veronica Cartwright, Harry Dean Stanton, Yaphet Kotto, Bolaji Badejo, and Ian HolmesMusic by Jerry Goldsmith and Lionel Newman

We're going to Antarctica to join a crew of researchers as they battle an alien that can perfectly imitate any living organism. Listen to find out if the men can overcome this creature, and their own paranoia.(R), 1982Directed by John CarpenterWritten by Bill Lancaster and John W. Campbell Jr.Starring Kurt Russell, Keith David, and Wilford BrimleyMusic by Ennio Morricone

It’s Halloween week, and what better movie to cover than Halloween — the film that defined the slasher genre.(R), 1978Directed by John CarpenterWritten by John Carpenter and Debra HillStarring Jamie Lee Curtis, Donald Pleasence, Nick Castle, Will Sandin, and Tony MoranMusic by John Carpenter

This week we're following an insomniac on his journey to self discovery through an underground boxing club turned anarchist group.(R), 1999Directed by David FincherStarring Brad Pitt, Edward Norton, Helana Bonham Carter, Jared Leto, and Meat LoafWritten by Chuck Palahniuk and Jim UhlsMusic by The Dust Brothers

Today, we'll be discussing the heist film, Gone in 60 Seconds. I find it to be one of Nicolas Cage's best performances. The plot revolves around Randall "Memphis" Raines, played by Cage, who is in a desperate race against the clock to save his brother. (PG-13), 2000Directed by Dominic SenaWritten by H.B. Halicki, Scott RosenbergStarring Nicolas Cage, Angelina Jolie, Giovanni Ribisi, Will Patton, Delroy Lindo, Timothy Olyphant, and Robert DuvallMusic by Trevor Rabin, and Paul Lanford

This week, we delve into the twisted minds of two serial killers—and the FBI agent caught in the middle, forced to seek help from one in order to catch the other.(R), 1991Directed by Jonathan DemmeWritten by Thomas Harris and Ted TallyStarring Anthony Hopkins, Jodie Foster, Ted Levine, and Scott GlennMusic by Howard Shore

Join us as we go back in time to Jurassic Park. In this film a disgruntled employee sets off a chain of events that results in chaos in a park full of cloned dinosaurs. (PG-13), 1993Directed by Steven SpielbergWritten by Michael Crichton and David KoeppStarring Sam Neil, Laura Dern, and Jeff GoldblumMusic by John Williams

In this episode, we’re going underground with two handymen as they help a small town battle the terrifying monsters preying on its citizens.(PG-13), 1990Directed by Ron UnderwoodWritten by S.S Wilson, Brent Maddock, and Ron UnderwoodStarring Kevin Bacon, Fred Ward, Finn Carter, Michael Gross, and Reba McEntireMusic by Reba McEntire and Ernest Troost

This week we're going into the ocean to cover the Spielberg classic, Jaws. Listen to find out if the citizens of Amity Island can rid their peaceful beach of a murderous shark that stalks the area. (PG), 1975Directed by Steven SpielbergWritten by Peter Benchley and Carl GottliebStarring Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, and Richard DreyfussMusic by John Williams

Join us as we delve into the world of Tim Burton and explore the life of a recluse scissor handed boy as he is taken into suburbia and tries to adapt to this new world.(PG-13), 1990Directed by Tim BurtonWritten by Tim Burton and Caroline ThompsonStarring Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest, Robert Oliveri, Alan Arkin, Anthony Michael Hall, and Vincent Price Music by Danny Elfman

This week, we dive into the world of survival as a seasoned survivalist trainer is forced to track down a former protégé who has gone rogue. Will he be able to confront his past and stop the student he once mentored? Tune in to find out.(R), 2003Directed by William FriedkenWritten by David Griffiths, Peter Griffiths, and Art MonterastelliStarring Tommy Lee Jones, Benicio Del Toro, Leslie Stefanson, Mark Pelligrino, and Connie  NielsonMusic by Brian Tyler 

Welcome back! Join us this week as we follow MiB agents K and J as they attempt to save the world from a notorious bug like alien.(PG-13), 1997Directed by Barry SonnenfeldWritten by Lowell Cunningham and Ed SolomonStarring Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith, Linda Fiorentino, Vincent D'Onofrio, Rip Torn, and Tony ShalhoubMusic by Danny Elfman

This week we are going back to the Zombie film that started it all. Listen as we discuss a group of survivors that try to survive the night as undead cannibals attempt to eat them alive. (R), 1968Directed by George A. RomeroWritten by John A. Russo and George A. RomeroStarring Duane Jones, Judith O'Dea, Karl Hardman, Marilyn Eastman, Kyra Schon, Keith Wayne,  and Judith RidleyMusic by William Loose

This week we are venturing into the wilderness to see if Ottway (Liam Neeson) can guide the survivors of a plane crash to safety while trying to survive the harsh winter conditions all the while being hunted by a pack of ravenous wolves. (R), 2011Directed by Joe CarnahanWritten by Joe Carnahan and Ian Mackenzie JeffersStarring Liam Neeson, Dermot Mulroney, and Frank GrilloMusic by Marc Streitenfeld

This week we're going into the jungle as Dutch (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and his team face off against an other worldly hunter. Listen to find out if he can make it out alive. (R), 1987Directed by John McTiernanWritten by Jim Thomas and John ThomasStarring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Kevin Peter Hall, Carl Weathers, Bill Duke, Jesse Ventura, Sonny Landham, Shane Black, and Richard ChavezMusic by Alan Silvestri

Join us as we dive into the absurd comedy White Chicks, starring Shawn and Marlon Wayans. In this wild film, the two play FBI agents who go undercover in a hilarious attempt to save their careers. Along the way, they stumble upon a major embezzlement scheme, all while forging unexpected friendships.(PG-13), 2004Directed by Keenen Ivory WayansWritten by  Keenen Ivory Wayans, Shawn Wayans, and Marlon WayansStarring Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Terry Crews, Anne Dudek, Maitland Ward, Jaime King, Brittany Daniel, and John HeardMusic by Teddy Castellucci

This week, we follow the legendary vampire hunter, Blade, on his relentless mission to rid the world of vampires. As Blade confronts his dark past, he must face the very vampire who turned him into what he is today—Deacon Frost. Tune in to discover whether Blade can overcome his inner demons and stop Deacon's plans for vampire global domination.(R), 1998Directed by Stephen NorringtonWritten by David S. GoyerStarring Wesley Snipes, Stephen Dorff, Kris Kristofferson, N'Bushe Wright, and Donald LogueMusic by Mark Isham

This week, we wrap up our coverage of the Toy Story film franchise. In this final installment, Woody embarks on an emotional journey to help a new toy find his place among Bonnie's collection. Along the way, Woody must confront his own past and come to terms with a profound realization: being a child's toy is not the sole purpose of life. This heartwarming chapter explores themes of growth, identity, and the evolving nature of belonging, marking a fitting conclusion to the beloved series.(G), 2019Directed by Josh CooleyWritten by John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, and Josh CooleyStarring Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, John Ratzenberger, Blake Clark, Joan Cusak, Annie Potts, Keanu Reeves, and Bill HaderMusic by Randy Newman 

This week, we're diving into the third thrilling chapter of the Toy Story saga. Tune in to discover if Woody can save his friends from a seemingly innocent daycare, which hides a secret behind its lovable yet suspiciously devious bear leader.(G), 2010Directed by Lee UnkrichWritten by John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, and Lee UnkrichStarring Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, John Ratzenberger, Blake Clark, Joan Cusak, Ned Beatty, Michael Keaton, and Whoopi GoldbergMusic by Randy Newman 

This week, we return to the beloved world of Toys for an exciting sequel. Woody uncovers the truth about his past and is faced with a heart-wrenching decision: return to his owner or stay with his newfound friends. Tune in to discover the fate of Woody and the rest of the toys.(G), 1999Directed by John Lasseter, Ash Brannon, and Lee UnkrichWritten by John Lasseter, Peter Docter, and Ash BrannonStarring Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, John Ratzenberger, Annie Potts, Wallace Shawn, Jim Varney, Kelsy Grammer, and Joan CusackMusic by Randy Newman 

Join us for the final episode of the year and the exciting start of our Toy Story movie reviews! In this film, Woody faces the harsh reality of losing his status as his owner’s favorite toy, as a new contender rises to take his place. Together, Woody and his rival must forge an uneasy alliance to navigate the dangers outside and next door to find their way back to their beloved owner.(G), 1995Directed by John LasseterWritten by John Lasseter, Peter Docter, and Andrew StantonStarring Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, John Ratzenberger, Annie Potts, Wallace Shawn, and Jim VarneyMusic by Randy Newman and Klaus Lage

This week, we journey back to ancient Egypt, where Rick O'Connell and his family must once again confront the menacing Imhotep — but this time, they face an even greater ancient evil. Tune in to discover if Rick and his loved ones can rise to the challenge and save the world once more.(PG-13), 2000Directed by Stephen SommersWritten by Stephen SommersStarring Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz, Arnold Vosloo, John Hannah, and Oded FehrMusic by Alan Silvestri

This week we dive into the action-packed adventure The Mummy. In this thrilling film, Rick O'Connell (Brendan Fraser) is on a high-stakes mission to confront an ancient and supernatural force. Can he overcome the odds and save those he holds dear? Tune in to find out!(PG-13), 1999Directed by Stephen SommersWritten by Stephen Sommers, Lloyd Fonvielle, and Kevin JarreStarring Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz, Arnold Vosloo, John Hannah, and Oded FehrMusic by Jerry Goldsmith

Join us this week as we delve into the gripping 1957 classic, 12 Angry Men. In this powerful drama, twelve jurors are tasked with deciding the fate of a young man accused of murder, a decision that forces them to confront their own biases, prejudices, and personal challenges. As tensions rise in the deliberation room, they must navigate complex social and racial issues while grappling with the weight of their responsibility. Don’t miss this compelling exploration of justice, morality, and the human condition.(Not Rated), 1957Directed by Sidney LumetWritten by Reginald RoseStarring Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, and Martin BalsamMusic by Kenyon Hopkins

This week, we dive into the gothic world of vampires and bounty hunters. Join us as we follow D, a half-human, half-vampire hunter tasked with rescuing a young girl. As D faces off against ancient monsters, rival hunters, and treacherous humans, will he complete his mission? Tune in to explore this dark, thrilling adventure!(R), 2000Directed by Yoshiaki KawajiriWritten by Hideyuki Kikuchi, Yoshiaki Kawajiri, and Ellen MooreStarring(Japanese) Hideyuki Tanaka - DKōichi Yamadera - Meier LinkMegumi Hayashibara - Leila(English)Andrew Philpot - DJohn Rafter Lee - Meier LinkPamela Adlon - LeilaMusic by Marco D'Ambrosio and Makkox

Join us this week as we dive into the emotional 1988 film Grave of the Fireflies. Set in war-torn Japan during World War II, the story follows a young boy's heartbreaking struggle to protect and care for his little sister amidst the devastation. (R), 1988Directed by Isao TakahataWritten by Akiyuki Nosaka, Isao TakahataStarring(Japanese)Tsutomu Tatsumi - SeitaAyano Shiraishi - SetsukoYoshiko Shinohara - Mother Music by Michio Mamiya, Yoshio Mamiya

This week, we dive into the Studio Ghibli classic, My Neighbor Totoro. Join us as we explore this masterpiece, delving into its portrayal of family dynamics and the imaginative wonder it evokes.(G), 1988Directed by Hayo MiyazaiWritten by Hayo MiyazakiStarring(Japanese)Noriko Hidaka - SatsukiChika Sakamoto - MeiShigesato Itoi -  Mr. Kusakabe Tanie Kitabayashi - Granny(English)Dakota Fanning - SatsukiElle Fanning - MeiTim Daly - Mr. Kusakabe Pat Carroll - GrannyMusic by Joe Hisaishi 

Join us this week as we delve into the world of Katsuhiro Otomo's Akira. Follow the gripping story of biker gang leader Kaneda as he faces the challenge of confronting his childhood friend, Tetsuo, who has developed powerful psychic abilities. Tune in to discover if Kaneda can reconcile with Tetsuo and navigate the complexities of their altered friendship. (R), 1988Directed by Katsuhiro OtomoWritten by Katsuhiro Otomo,  Izo HashimotoStarring(Japanese)Mitsuo Iwata - KanedaNozomu Sasaki - Tetsuo Mami Koyama - Kei(1988 English Streamline Dub) Jimmy Flinders - KanedaStanley Gurd Jr. - Tetsuo Deanna Morris - KeiMusic by Shoji Yamashiro

Join us on an exhilarating adventure as we follow the escapades of two cunning adventurers in pursuit of the legendary lost city of gold, El Dorado. Along their captivating journey, they encounter many challenges, from daunting obstacles to unexpected twists and turns. Tune in as we unravel the tale of their daring quest, and discover whether their pursuit of the ultimate treasure yields the riches they seek.(PG), 2000Directed by Bibo Bergeron, Don Paul, and Jeffrey KatzenburgWritten by Ted Elliot, Terry Rossio, and Karey KirkpatrickStarring Kevin Kline, Kenneth Branagh, and Rosie PerezMusic by Elton John, Tim Rice, Hans Zimmer, John Powell, and Klaus Badelt

Join us as we delve into the dystopian action thriller comedy, "Escape from L.A." Follow the thrilling journey of Snake as he races against time to save himself and the world. Tune in to discover if he can accomplish his mission!R (1996)Directed by John CarpenterWritten by John Carpenter, Nick Castle, and Debra HillStarring Kurt Russell, Steve Buscemi, Stace Keach, Cliff Robertson, A.J. Langer, and Bruce CampbellMusic by John Carpenter, and Shirley Walker 

Join us as we delve into Christopher Nolan's iconic Dark Knight Trilogy. Batman faces new foes and his greatest challenges yet in this epic saga. Tune in to discover if the Dark Knight can rise once more and save Gotham.PG-13 (2005, 2008, 2012)Directed by Christopher NolanWritten by Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan, David S. Goyer, and Bob KaneStarring Christian Bale, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Liam Neeson, Heath Ledger, Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy, and Anne HathawayMusic by Hans Zimmer, and James Newton Howard

Embark on an exhilarating journey with us as we delve into a spoiler-filled discussion of "The Batman." As Batman continues to navigate his complex role in vigilantism, he encounters an unprecedented challenge, confronting not only a formidable new villain but also the haunting demons from his past.PG-13 (2022)Directed by Matt ReevesWritten by Matt Reeves, Peter Craig, and Bob KaneStarring Robert Pattinson,  Zoë Kravitz, Jeffrey Wright, Colin Farrell, Paul Dano, John Turturro, Andy Serkis, and Peter SarsgaardMusic by Michael Giacchino

Join us this week for our double feature spoiler-filled discussions of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" and "How the Grinch Stole Christmas". These movies are brimming with Christmas nostalgia and wild antics. Although our opinions differ on these films, we both had a great time analyzing them.Christmas Vacation (PG-13), 1989Directed by Jeremiah S. ChechikWritten by John HughesStarring Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Juliette Lewis, Randy Quaid, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Johhny GaleckiMusic by Angelo BadalamentiHow the Grinch Stole Christmas (PG), 2000Directed by Ron HowardWritten by Dr. Seuss, Jeffrey Price, Peter S. SeamanStarring Jim Carrey, Taylor Momsen, Molly Shannon, Christine Baranski, and Jeffrey TamborMusic by James Horner

Join us this week as we discuss the western classic, Tombstone. The film follows legendary lawman Wyatt Earp as he battles a local gang and his conscience. With the help of outlaw Doc Holliday and his family, find out if Wyatt Earp can overcome the challenges of Tombstone. (R), 1993Directed by George P. Cosmatos and Kevin JarreWritten by Kevin JarreStarring Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Sam Elliot, Bill Paxton, Dana Delany, Powers Boothe, Michael Biehn, Stephen Lang, and Billy ZaneMusic by Bruce Broughton

In this episode, we're discussing the western action comedy film, Shanghai Noon, this week. The movie's plot revolves around Jackie Chan, who has to save a princess and face the challenges of the Wild West. He gets an unexpected partner to help him on his mission. Tune in to find out if Jackie can rescue the princess successfully.(PG-13), 2000Directed by Tom DeyWritten by Miles Miller and Alfred GoughStarring Jackie Chan, Owen Wilson, and Lucy LiuMusic by Randy Edelman

We're covering the insane zombie comedy horror film, The Return of the Living Dead. Join us as we uncover a military conspiracy, brain-eating zombies, and a group of survivors as they desperately struggle to survive an onslaught of unstoppable zombies. (R), 1985Directed by Dan O'BannonWritten by Rudy Ricci, John A. Russo, and Russell StreinerStarring Clu Gulager, James Karen, Don Calfa, Thom Matthews, Miguel A. Núñez Jr., and Linnea Quigley Music by Francis Haines, Matt Clifford, and Brian Cadd

This week, we would like to invite you to join us in a discussion about the action-packed movie that launched Bruce Willis' career - Die Hard. The film centers around the story of John McClane, a brave NYPD officer who confronts a crafty terrorist and expert thief named Hans Gruber. Throughout the movie, McClane is faced with numerous challenges, and we invite you to tune in and witness how he overcomes the odds to save the day.(R), 1988Directed by John McTiernanWritten by Roderick Thorp, Jeb Stuart, and Steven E. de Souza Starring Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Reginald VelJohnson, and Bonnie BedeliaMusic by Michael Kamen

This week's episode will delve into the 2006 movie "Casino Royale", where Daniel Craig plays the iconic MI6 spy, James Bond. The film serves as a reboot of the series as Bond is assigned to expose the mastermind behind a terrorist banking organization during a high-stakes poker game. The stakes are high, and Bond's life hangs in the balance. Join us to find out if he can succeed in his mission.(PG-13), 2006Directed by Martin CampbellWritten by Neal Purvis, Martin Wade, and Paul HaggisStarring Daniel Craig, Mads Mikkelsen, Judi Dench, Jeffrey Wright, and Eva GreenMusic by David Arnold

This week we're covering one of my favorite movies, The Shawshank Redemption. The film revolves around the story of Andy Dufresne, portrayed by Tim Robbins, and his alliance with Ellis Boyd 'Red' Redding, played by Morgan Freeman, as they strive to find optimism and deliverance amidst the bleak setting of a maximum security prison. Join us to explore whether they succeed in attaining redemption in Shawshank.(R), 1994Directed by Frank DarabontWritten by Stephen King, and Frank DarabontStarring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Clancy Brown, and Bob GuntonMusic by Thomas Newman