Episode 114: The Paris Clanger [Before I Go To Sleep; Life of Crime; They Came Together]
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It’s Episode 114 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode is a tale of two halves, as Irini M. joins us once again, having spent the past week or so trawling across the lido of Venice. She brings us extensive coverage of the film festival, reviewing most of the competition line-up, and dishing her verdict on (among other things) why Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s “Birdman” left Italy empty-handed, and why Kim Ki-Duk’s filmmaking style is getting rather insufferable. Eventually we get to reviewing new releases, with Nicole Kidman’s new amnesiac thriller “Before I Go To Sleep” leaving us with head-scratching thoughts on the film’s title, and even more perplexing notions about its logic. We’re also on board for the sequel to Nicholas McCarthy’s promising “The Pact,” worryingly left in the hands of new directors, while Cal reviews David Wain’s romantic comedy pastiche “We Came Together,” and we tackle Elmore Leonard adaptation “Life of Crime. Listen for our theories on why Kirsten Dunst won Best Actress at Cannes, which former feline-loving Oscar winner Al Pacino may be slyly mocking, which British singer forces Pete to recoil in horror, and what this week’s Christie clanger has to do with Paris Hilton’s wardrobe.
The Week’s News
Opening Segment: Discussing the prizes awarded at this year’s Venice Film Festival, plus guest Irini M. provides coverage of many other films which played at the festival, including “Birdman,” “3 Hearts,” “Manglehorn,” “Red Amnesia,” and “She’s Funny That Way”
[4:35 – 40:40]
Preconception Corner
- The Pact II
- Life of Crime
- They Came Together
- Before I Go To Sleep
[47:20 – 1:23:50]
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Olsen Factor
The Isaac Range
Episode 113: The Eight Year Drought [Night Moves; The Rover; Obvious Child]
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It’s Episode 113 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we begin by discussing the recently-announced recipients of this year’s Honorary Oscars, which leads us to several Oscar-related issues of the past, including the 1937 Best Actress race and the much-maligned Best Picture winner of 1941. Masculinity is alive and well, as Guy Pearce exercises badass tendencies in David Michod’s “The Rover,” which, thankfully for Pete, Jacki Weaver was absent from, while the talent on show in Scandinavian crime drama “The Keeper of Lost Causes” had Cal clamouring for more. By contrast, there are reviews of two films from female directors, with Gillian Robespierre’s indie comedy “Obvious Child” tackling the tricky subject of abortion, and Kelly Reichardt’s “Night Moves” deconstructing the folly of environmental activism. Pete walked out of the latter at Venice and did not turn back, but tune in to find out whether he managed to finish it at the second time of asking. Meanwhile, Cal has much to say about the sexual politics in John Slattery’s “God’s Pocket,” Pete dictates when co-incidences in film scripts are acceptable, and we bitch about a particularly unwelcome trend in world cinema. Elsewhere, Cal is baffled by a bizarre Robert Pattinson car sing-a-long, there’s a rare shout-out for a former co-star of Dakota Fanning, and there is some serious trepidation in advance of next week’s trashy-looking Rowan Joffe thriller.
- The Academy announces the recipients of this year’s honorary Oscars
[3:10 – 13:50]
- Night Moves
- Obvious Child
- The Keeper of Lost Causes
- God’s Pocket
[25:35 – 1:04:00]
Closing Segment: Our take on David Michod’s revenge thriller “The Rover,” starring Guy Pearce and Robert Pattinson!
[1:04:05 – 1:17:50]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Keri Hilson, “Pretty Girl Rock”
Episode 111: The Moribund Monologues [The Congress; Finding Vivian Maier; Blood Ties]
Episode 111: The Moribund Monologues
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It’s Episode 111 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we pay tribute to two legends of the screen, as we discuss our favourite career highlights of Robin Williams and Lauren Bacall. The week’s releases offered few options, but we both managed to catch photographic documentary “Finding Vivian Maier” and Ari Folman’s live action/animation hybrid “The Congress,” which led us to some mighty preconceptions about Robin Wright. Pete saw the latest Simon Pegg comedy “Hector and the Search for Happiness” but only managed to come out of it with appreciation for one woman, while a surprise masculine presence in Guillaume Canet’s “Blood Ties” had Cal rather satisfied. Digressions are aplenty this week, as we take time out from the films to discuss the downfall of Gary Busey, lament Miley Cyrus’s break from acting, and list the problems that arise when normal moviegoers see foreign films. Elsewhere, an unexpected Gorillaz sing-off makes the final edit, recent dread for Daniel Radcliffe’s new film sees it excised from this month’s schedule, while a factual clanger from last week’s episode forces Cal into an apology, much to the amusement of Pete.
- David Ayer’s “Fury” to close London Film Festival
- The death of Robin Williams
- The death of Lauren Bacall
[4:45 – 21:00]
- Finding Vivian Maier
- Hector and the Search for Happiness
- Blood Ties
[32:00 – 1:02:55]
Closing Segment: Discussing Ari Folman’s “The Congress,” the career path of Robin Wright, and revealing our favourite films that are bat-shit crazy!
[1:03:00 – 1:19:30]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: A-Ha, “Take On Me”
Episode 110: Past the Magenta [Guardians of the Galaxy; Welcome to New York; Lilting]
Episode 110: Past the Magenta
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It’s Episode 110 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Pete’s antics in Ibiza are over, so the podcast returns from a fortnightly break, bringing with it five films, and some extremely early news of Foreign Language Oscar submissions. The French are represented well this week, led off by Agnes Jaoui’s fairytale-inspired “Under the Rainbow” and followed up by Michel Gondry’s eccentric “Mood Indigo,” but did the fantasy aspects of both films draw us in or have us running for the hills? Life is far from a fairytale in Abel Ferrara’s political drama “Welcome to New York,” in which we see far too much of Gerard Depardieu, while the presence of a famous cinematic villain of the past in gay drama “Lilting” ensures that it isn’t just The Ben Whishaw Show. All that, plus we finally catch up with Marvel’s mega financial and critical hit “Guardians of the Galaxy,” with all eyes on one guy in particular. Elsewhere, Pete dares to liken a Larry Olivier film to the Twilight series, we discuss how Colin Firth’s eagerness towards a certain leading lady was wholly inappropriate in the context, and one of the reviews inexplicably leads us to reminisce about the days of Craig David and S Club 7. No, really.
- Directors rally around the cause of film
- First Foreign Language Oscar submissions of the year: Turkey, Poland, and Hungary announce their picks!
[3:20 – 12:40]
- Guardians of the Galaxy
- Lilting
- Under the Rainbow
- Mood Indigo
[21:40 – 58:40]
Closing Segment: Discussing Abel Ferrara’s French political drama “Welcome to New York,” and discussing films that are thinly-veiled assaults on public figures!
[58:45 – 1:14:50]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: The Vengaboys, “We’re Going To Ibiza”
Episode 109: All About the Bantz [Hercules; Joe; The Films of 1977]
Episode 109: All About the Bantz
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It’s Episode 109 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we let the reviews take a back seat, as we focus on festival fare and classic cinema. Podcast stalwart Irini M. is back with us to discuss the line-up for this year’s Venice Film Festival (which she will be attending) but abandons us after half an hour, forcing Pete to turn to poetry for consolation. We take (a lot of) time out to discuss the year that was 1977, talking about the year’s critics prizes, Oscar winners, and our personal top tens, leading to digressions about a classic catfight between Shirley MaClaine and Anne Bancroft, and a disappointing gay denial from Cal’s student days. Elsewhere, we chat about David Gordon Green’s “Joe,” sci-fi adventure “Earth to Echo,” and mythological action film “Hercules,” which Pete’s piano pupil was conspicuously absent from. Tune in to discover which Hong Kong director (no – not that one) got Pete and Irini excited, how the approach to casting of Luis Bunuel and Pier Pasolini was beyond liberal, and why the party island of Ibiza will force a mini-podcast hiatus.
The Week’s News:
- The trailer for Liv Ullmann’s “Miss Julie” is released
Opening Segment: Discussing the recently-announced lineup for this year’s Venice Film Festival, featuring films from Roy Andersson, Ramin Bahrani, and Andrew Niccol!
[3:55 – 20:40]
Listener Questions [Ibbi]
[20:45 – 29:35]
Preconception Corner
Classic Segment: Discussing our favourite films and performances from 1977, touching upon films by William Friedkin, Paul Verhoeven, and Fred Zinnemann, and performances by Richard Burton, Vanessa Redgrave, and Quinn Cummings! Plus much more!
[38:35 – 1:16:55]
- Joe
- Earth to Echo
- Hercules
[1:17:00 – 1:34:05]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Miley Cyrus, “Party in the U.S.A”
Episode 108: Behind the Vicarage [Dawn of the Planet of the Apes; The Films of 1948]
Episode 108: Behind the Vicarage
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It’s Episode 108 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
With a serious dearth of new releases this week, we’ve decided to go back in time to the cinema of 1948, giving our top tens, favourite performances, and disappointments from the year, which drags out the episode to a typically strenuous length. Meanwhile, there’s a trio of deaths in the film world, and a Franco double bill, which includes nuclear romance “Grand Central” and Fanny Ardant in bourgeois drama “Bright Days Ahead.” Pete’s rundown of the latter of those threatened to be as candid as the film itself, but you’ll have to listen to find out whether its boldness had us weak at the knees, or reaching for the sick bowl. The week’s big movie is “Dawn of the Planet of Apes,” which neither of us were looking forward to, but which does give us time to ponder Mark Wahlberg’s ascent to leading man status, Gary Oldman’s recent career choices, and the absurdity of internal ape politics. Elsewhere, discover how Frieda Pinto gets the raw end of the deal, why Manohla Dargis is the Queen of the fake allegory, and why what happened behind the vicarage in Sutton Park remains a mystery.
The week’s news:
- The death of James Garner
- The death of Elaine Stritch
- The death of Tom Rolf
- “The Imitation Game” will open this year’s London Film Festival
- “Gone Girl” will open this year’s New York Film Festival
[5:15 – 15:20]
Preconception Corner
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
- Bright Days Ahead
- Grand Central
[23:30 – 52:55]
Closing Segment:Discussing our favourite films and performances from 1948, touching upon films by Alfred Hitchcock, Roberto Rossellini, and John Ford, and performances by Olivia De Havilland, Walter Huston, and Laurence Olivier!
[53:00 – 1:24:45]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Madonna, “Lucky Star”
Episode 107: The Four Percent Rule [Boyhood; Begin Again; How To Train Your Dragon 2]
Episode 107: The Four Percent Rule
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It’s Episode 107 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we turn our attention to the upcoming Venice Film Festival, discussing the just-announced opening film for 2014, and the recent history of openers at the festival, which include two Steven Spielberg films and a derranged noir effort from Brian DePalma. Change is on the horizon, as the World Cup is over and Pete is now a home owner, but he still couldn’t pluck up the courage to experience Keira Knightley’s vocal tones in John Carney’s “Begin Again,” leaving Cal all alone with some awkward preconceptions about Adam Levine. Meanwhile, we discuss animated Sequel “How to Train Your Dragon 2” and Richard Linklater’s “Boyhood” becomes the longest review on the podcast since… Richard Linklater’s “Before Midnight,” but did our lofty hopes for it get answered? Elsewhere, we talk about our personal experiences of open mic nights, and there’s an epic preconception corner, featuring an infamous slur by John Wayne on Barry Norman, and a major sexual indiscretion by the Maroon 5 front-man concerning everyone’s favourite tennis pro.
Opening Segment: Discussing the recent history of opening films at the Venice Film Festival, in the wake of the announcement that Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s “Birdman” will open this year’s event!
[4:00 – 24:50]
Preconception Corner
- How to Train Your Dragon 2
- Begin Again
[39:10 – 1:04:20]
Closing Segment: Our lengthy take on Richard Linklater’s “Boyhood,” featuring a small discussion of films founded upon gimmicks!
[1:04:25 – 1:24:10]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova, “When Your Mind’s Made Up”
Episode 106: Cute, Amusing, and Cringe [Tammy; Cycling with Moliere; Cold in July]
Episode 106: Cute, Amusing, and Cringe
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It’s Episode 106 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we’re splitting the American releases down the middle, with Cal opting for raucous Melissa McCarthy comedy “Tammy,” and Pete settling down for moody thriller “Cold in July.” Cal’s fondness for musicals led him to colourful Aussie flick “Goddess,” featuring the vocal talents of none other than Ronan Keating, while France is represented in our review of “Cycling with Moliere,” which (spoiler!) has very little to do with actual cycling. Elsewhere, our crop of films in this month’s Red Light District features an unconventional biopic and a sports documentary, plus there’s an unexpected rant about “Out of Africa,” and an extremely short discussion of Kelly McGillis’ career. This week’s episode is a badly behaved one, as Pete uncorks the C word within the first half an hour (albeit in a quote), while other bouts of innuendo involve Vinessa Shaw and lucrative webcam placements, and some honest family nostalgia leads to rash likenesses between Melissa McCarthy and canines.
Opening Segment: This month’s Red Light District, in which we “pimp” films we’ve seen in the last month. This month’s crop includes “King & Country,” “Mahler,” “One Night in Turin,” and “They All Laughed”
[4:50 – 21:55]
Preconception Corner
- Tammy
- Cold in July
- Goddess
[30:15 – 58:10]
Closing Segment: Our take on Philippe Le Guay’s “Cycling with Moliere,” starring Fabrice Luchini and Lambert Wilson, and discussing cinematic bromances!
[58:15 – 1:13:15]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Banks, “Goddess”
Episode 105: The Twin Peakes [Chef; Arthur & Mike; Run & Jump]
Episode 105: The Twin Peakes
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It’s Episode 105 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
With the Summer release schedule awash with unappealing blockbusters and unobtainable world cinema, we’re left with three small dramas to review for you this week. Understated Irish film “Run & Jump” has us singing the praises of one actor in particular, while Cal’s usual appreciation for Emily Blunt’s chemistry is challenged in “Arthur & Mike,” a chronicle of identity crisis which also stars Cal’s neighbour Colin Firth. It’s going to be a job for Pete to overcome the troubling preconceptions he has for Jon Favreau’s “Chef,” (including about the man himself) but will the film’s culinary delights and road trip format win us over? Meanwhile, there’s a ton of news, including two deaths, a controversial interview with a former Oscar nominee, and a discussion of the latest crop of cinematic “talent” invited to join AMPAS. Listen as we encounter digressions involving debut performances of the 1950s, the many virtues of Eric Stoltz, Barbra Streisand’s vanity, and a hysterical pitch for a sequel to a Juliette Binoche film.
The week’s news:
- Cal watched “Calvary”
- The death of Eli Wallach
- The death of Paul Mazursky
- Gary Oldman’s Playboy interview
- AMPAS invites new members
[1:50 – 22:05]
Preconception Corner
- Run & Jump
- Arthur & Mike
[29:30 – 50:10]
Closing Segment: Our take on Jon Favreau’s “Chef,” discussing films about food, and some other random asides!
[50:15 – 1:05:50]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Aphex Twin, “Avril 14th”
Special Episode: Best of the Podcast, Year Two
Best of the Podcast, Year Two
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Welcome to a special episode of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Here’s our second compilation episode! The following snippets are from episodes in the past year, and include reviews of “Diana” and “White House Down,” discussion of Greta Gerwig, James Gandolfini, Amy Adams, and Faye Dunaway, many of Pete’s colourful stories, and much much more! Enjoy.
Podcast Music: Jack Penate, “Second, Minute, or Hour”; Theophilus London, “Why Even Try?” (RAC Remix); Beyonce, “Diva”; Dr. John, “Getaway”; Carly Rae Jepsen, “Call Me Maybe”
Episode 104: Miscarriages of Justice [The Fault In Our Stars; Jersey Boys; Miss Violence]
Episode 104: Miscarriages of Justice
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It’s Episode 104 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Irini M. returns this week to help us discuss our favourite films and performances from 2014 so far, leading to a disagreement about Wes Anderson, yet more discussion of Xavier Dolan, and a fierce defence of a podcast fantasy favourite. The week’s reviews see us flirt with both familiarity and contempt, as Cedric Klapisch’s trilogy-capping “Chinese Puzzle” was finally released in the UK, while not all of us were happy about the Venice trophy haul of Greek family drama “Miss Violence.” We tackle cancer flick “The Fault In Our Stars,” Cal goes it alone for Clint Eastwood’s foray into the musical genre, “Jersey Boys,” while the latest batch of non-sporting news calls for a Desplat love-in, and a discussion of everyone’s favourite Hong Kong auteur. Pete continues to liken the faults of World Cinema to Roy Hodgson’s World Cup tactics, a listener question provokes a passionate defence of Greek patriotism from Irini, and a controversial pitch for a new Jennifer Lopez rom-com provides an early FYC for next year’s compilation.
The week’s news:
- Alexandre Desplat announced as the President of the jury at this year’s Venice Film Festival
- Wong Kar-Wai’s new film is on the way
- Gerry Conlon, subject of the film “In the Name of the Father,” dies aged 60
[2:30 – 14:45]
Listener Questions from Ibbi
[14:50 – 20:35]
Preconception Corner
- The Fault In Our Stars
- Chinese Puzzle
- Miss Violence
- Jersey Boys
[33:45 – 1:14:00]
Closing Segment: 2014’s mid-year awards, in which we discuss our favourite and least favourite films and performances from the year so far!
[1:14:05 – 1:35:35]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Alexandre Desplat, “Depart Pour La Guerre” (from “The Well Digger’s Daughter”)
Episode 103: Kiss of the Spider Tattoo [Devil’s Knot; Oculus; T.S. Spivet]
Episode 103: Kiss of the Spider Tattoo
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It’s Episode 103 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week is tangent central, as two deaths in the Actressing world instigates a lengthy opening segment about one-time Supporting Actress Oscar nominees, which includes discussion of performances by Judith Anderson, Juliette Lewis, and many others. New releases include the promising Daniel Auteuil/Kristin Scott-Thomas thriller, “Before the Winter Chill,” and haunted mirror horror film “Oculus,” plus Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s latest colourful tale, “T.S. Spivet,” which reminded Cal a little too much of a certain David Fincher film. We end in grisly fashion with an uber-serious chat about Atom Egoyan’s child murder drama “Devil’s Knot,” featuring the unlikely pairing of Colin Firth and Reese Witherspoon, and a discussion of films based on documentaries. This week’s rule of not mentioning the World Cup is established (and broken) early, while we express our desire to re-cast roles in “The Lord of the Rings” and “Noah” as Michael Haneke, and go off on a mutual Joe Wright Rant about a bitter Oscar snub from the Eighties.
The week’s news:
- Michael Schumacher wakes from Coma
- Daniel Day-Lewis to receive a Knighthood
Opening Segment: Discussing one-time Supporting Actress nominees, in the wake of the deaths of Ruby Dee and Martha Hyer!
[5:35 – 23:15]
Red Light District: Pimping films we’ve seen in the last month, including “King of Hearts,” “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” and “Time Without Pity”
[23:20 – 32:40]
Preconception Corner
- The Young and Prodigious T.S. Spivet
- Before the Winter Chill
- Oculus
[38:10 – 1:05:50]
Closing Segment: Our take on Atom Egoyan’s “Devil’s Knot,” discussing its role in promoting the “Paradise Lost” documentaries, and offering examples of other films born out of the documentary process!
[1:05:55 – 1:23:10]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Jordin Sparks, “Tattoo”
Episode 102: Dial M for Mayday [Grace of Monaco; 22 Jump Street; Venus in Fur]
Episode 102: Dial M for Mayday
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It’s Episode 102 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week fears of a Greek backlash bubble to the surface, as we review friend of the podcast Irini’s favourite film of last year, Roman Polanski’s “Venus in Fur,” touching on the prowess of an older, fishnet-less Emmanuelle Seigner. Meanwhile, Cal was the only one in the queue for buddy cop sequel “22 Jump Street,” and creepy cult horror “The Sacrament,” while Pete caught Cal off-guard at the last minute with a surprise review that absolutely nobody was expecting. Find out whether this podcast is kinder to Olivier Dahan’s “Grace of Monaco” than most critics have been thus far, and listen to us discuss the ups and downs of Grace Kelly’s short-lived film career, including her generally-disliked Best Actress Oscar win. Elsewhere, we float potential nicknames for Channing Tatum, anticipation for an upcoming Richard Linklater film is at fever pitch, while there’s yet more concern voiced for Shailene Woodley (and a distinct lack of medical knowledge) as her new cancer flick edges perilously closer.
The week’s news:
- The death of Rik Mayall
Preconception Corner
- Venus in Fur
- 22 Jump Street
- A Million Ways to Die in the West
- The Sacrament
[16:35 – 52:35]
Closing Segment: Our take on Olivier Dahan’s critically-savaged “Grace of Monaco,” and discussing the career of the one and only Grace Kelly!
[52:40 – 1:26:05]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Sia, “Breathe Me”
Episode 101: The Besmirchment of Hermione [Edge of Tomorrow; Maleficent; Ilo Ilo]
Episode 101: The Besmirchment of Hermione
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It’s Episode 101 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week sees the debut review of perennial podcast talking point and all-around legend, Liv Ullmann, whose return to the screen in German Oscar entry “Two Lives” got tongues wagging, but did its tepid tale of espionage make a lasting impression on us? In the wake of this week’s Singapore film “Ilo Ilo,” we get to talking about other recent Camera d’Or winners at the Cannes Film Festival, touching on some films Pete doesn’t really like, and one in particular that he can’t get enough of. Elsewhere, only one of us saw Angelina Jolie strut her stuff in Disney spin-off “Maleficent,” and the sheer insanity of Doug Liman’s “Edge of Tomorrow” had us knocked for six. Listen, as we rue a series of missed opportunities and get into a passionate discussion about the importance of film critics, while Pete rants about the recent career choices of a podcast favourite and a former co-star of Emily Blunt gets an unexpected shout-out. Vive le Yorkshire!
The week’s news:
- Ken Loach complains about critics
[5:25 – 11:25]
Opening Segment: Discussing the winners of the Camera d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, since 2000, featuring discussion of “Reconstruction,” “Hunger,” “Beasts of the Southern Wild,” and more!
[11:35 – 21:40]
Preconception Corner
- Ilo Ilo
- Maleficent
- Two Lives
[29:10 – 58:05]
Closing Segment: Our take on Doug Liman’s “Edge of Tomorrow,” starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt!
[58:10 – 1:11:15]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: The Shirelles, “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?”
Episode 100: Don’t Fear the Reaper [100 Films to See Before You Die]
Episode 100: Don’t Fear the Reaper
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It’s Episode 100 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
As we close in on a century of episodes, our 100th is our longest yet, as we take a week off from new releases at the cinema to bring you our one hundred films you must see before you die. We take a moment to consider the people who have departed us since the podcast began, we discuss the recent winners from the Cannes Film Festival, plus the positivity continues with the latest installment of the Red Light District! Listen for discussion of films from France, Russia, Hong Kong, Greece, and more, digressions concerning Greta Garbo and Bryan Forbes, and find out which auteur Pete shockingly left out of his personal canon.
The Week’s News:
- Cannes Film Festival prize winners
Red Light District: featuring discussion of “Once,” “The Passion of Anna,” “Skyfall,” “Sorcerer,” “The Spirit of the Beehive,” “To Paint, or Make Love” and “The Wrong Box”
[6:10 – 20:20]
Our 100 Films to See Before You Die: featuring discussion of tons of classics, ranging from “M,” to “Onibaba,” to “Titanic.”
[20:25 – 1:48:30]
Outro Music: Blue Oyster Cult, “Don’t Fear the Reaper”
Episode 99: The Changing of the Guard [Godzilla; Two Faces of January; In Secret]
Episode 99: The Changing of the Guard
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It’s Episode 99 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week marks the end of an era, as we announce who will take over from Emma Watson and Melvil Poupaud in our factor and range segments, so tune in to find out which delectable actor and actress will assume the baton. It’s a week of good cast lists, as the latest blockbuster incarnation of “Godzilla” managed to assemble a who’s who of Thespian talent (if you discount Aaron Taylor-Johnson), and we review period thriller “The Two Faces of January,” despite not having a clue why it’s titled as such. Cal goes it alone for “Concussion,” the sapphic answer to “Belle De Jour,” which Pete took as a cue to go into innuendo overdrive, while love triangle melodrama “In Secret” instigates fierce preconceptions about Jessica Lange. A recent death in the cinematography world leads to a digression about the best shot films of 1990, a discussion of anti-heroes turns into an analysis of category placement politics, plus the Huston problem rears its ugly head to plague one of our new replacements.
The week’s news:
- “Grace of Monaco” trashed at Cannes
- Broadchurch wins three BAFTAs
- The death of Malik Bendjelloul
- The death of Gordon Willis
[4:20 – 10:55]
Preconception Corner
- The Two Faces of January
- In Secret
- Concussion
[19:40 – 52:50]
Closing Segment: Our take on Gareth Edwards’ “Godzilla,” and discussing the history of anti-heroes in cinema!
[52:55 – 1:13:00]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Shout Out Louds, “1999”
Episode 98: Winners & Losers [Bad Neighbours; The Wind Rises; Next Goal Wins]
Episode 98: Winners & Losers
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It’s Episode 98 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week starts out sporty, as we look ahead to next month’s World Cup, and celebrate the release of new underdog football film “Next Goal Wins” by revealing our favourite documentaries about sports. After that, we get onto the week’s other releases, which include the amusingly re-titled comedy “Bad Neighbours” and Hayao Miyazaki’s period swansong “The Wind Rises,” which prompts a discussion of the greatest biopics ever made, and a face-off between “The Pianist” and “Schindler’s List”. With only three films, we have plenty of time to anticipate next week’s double-dose of Elizabeth Olsen, and venture on a host of digressions, discussing the quality of the cinema of 2004, and what exactly constitutes a “performance piece.” Elsewhere, Pete uncorks a rather vicious burn on Hailee Steinfeld, Zac Efron makes Cal feel guilty and shallow, and there’s a proposed overhaul of the segments which may see Emma and Melvil banished from the podcast. Scandal!
Opening Segment: Discussing our favourite sports documentaries, and high benchmarks for sports films in general!
[8:45 – 16:55]
Preconception Corner
- Next Goal Wins
- Bad Neighbours
[24:20 – 47:10]
Closing Segment: Our take on Hayao Miyakazi’s “The Wind Rises,” and discussing our favourite biopics, with some other random asides!
[47:15 – 1:16:00]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Conchita Wurst, “Rise Like a Phoenix”
Episode 97: Continental Drift [Tracks; A Thousand Times Good Night; Blue Ruin]
Episode 97: Continental Drift
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It’s Episode 97 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Dubbed “Mr. D+” by Pete, Cal hopes for a better run of films this week, as our slate of continent-spanning sober dramas force us to tone things down a little. We review Erik Poppe’s “A Thousand Times Good Night,” starring the ever-exemplary Juliette Binoche, but is the moral-heavy family crisis at the film’s centre worthy of her abilities? It’s been eight months since Pete saw and liked John Curran’s “Tracks” at Venice, but does Cal feel the same way about the Aussie desert quest’s quality? Elsewhere, Pete caught up with Paddy Considine-led British thriller “Honour,” while Cal opted for American indie revenge pic “Blue Ruin,” plus a listener question leads to a slew of digressions about the Cannes Film Festival’s history of politics and prize-giving. Tune in to hear our thoughts on the biggest Oscar snub of the 1980s, which Terrence Malick film receives a radical re-evaluation from Pete, and why a foolish display of canine companionship gets Cal all self-righteous.
The Week’s News:
- The death of Bob Hoskins
- A sequel to “Spring Breakers” is announced
- Cal’s been reading a Cannes-related book
Listener Question: “What are your thoughts on “Clean,” and specifically Maggie Cheung?” [Ibbi]
[7:55 – 13:10]
Opening Segment: The return of the Red Light District, featuring discussion of “Chaotic Ana,” “Into the Night,” “Safety Not Guaranteed,” “The Search for Bridey Murphy,” “To the Wonder,” and “Youth Without Youth”
[13:15 – 26:45]
Preconception Corner
- A Thousand Times Good Night
- Blue Ruin
- Honour
- Tracks
[29:55 – 1:02:25]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Faye Wong, “Dream Person”
Episode 96: Pfists & Trysts [Transcendence; Amazing Spider-Man 2; Labour Day]
Episode 96: Pfists & Trysts
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It’s Episode 96 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week is especially sweet for Pete, as Rebecca Hall features in two very different releases: Wally Pfister’s ambitious Sci-fi project “Transcendence,” and Patrice Leconte’s reserved romantic drama “A Promise.” Despite general dread at the prospect of Jason Reitman’s “Labour Day,” Cal managed to catch it, but did he find something of worth besides an appreciation for Diane Lane’s taste in men? We both saw “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” of which there are fairly lengthy preconceptions, and elsewhere we discuss some relationship news, an odd piece of casting, and the eclectic competition jury for this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Tune in to find out why Cal is on particularly grumpy form, how many times Pete had to recount the plot of “Transcendence” in order to perfect it, and our potentially epic plans for our upcoming 100th episode!
The Week’s News:
- Jodie foster marries her female partner
- George Clooney gets engaged
- Jessica Chastain cast as Marilyn Monroe
- A new Dad’s Army film to be made
- Cannes jury is announced
[4:45 – 16:10]
Preconception Corner
- The Amazing Spider-Man 2
- A Promise
- Labour Day
[28:05 – 59:15]
Closing Segment: Our take on Wally Pfister’s “Transcendence,” discussing debut screenwriting feats, and cinematographers-turned-directors!
[59:20 – 1:20:40]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: The National, “Bloodbuzz Ohio”
Episode 95: The Pullitzer Puzzle [Locke; The Love Punch; Cannes Lineup]
Episode 95: The Pullitzer Puzzle
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It’s Episode 95 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we welcome Irini M back to the podcast to help us discuss the much-anticipated lineup of this year’s Cannes Film Festival, featuring the upcoming works of David Cronenberg, Mike Leigh, and many more European auteurs, some of which fill us with dread. We’re reviewing the Miranda Otto-led lesbian drama “Reaching for the Moon,” British heist comedy “The Love Punch,” and Tom Hardy’s one-man show “Locke,” which divided the camp in its depiction of drama and geography. Cal’s review of psychological horror film “Magic Magic” gets hijacked by Pete’s rant about a certain Pullitzer Prize winner, while Irini had a bone to pick with him about his “failure to understand” the point of Xavier Dolan’s latest delight. There are predictably many digressions, concerning Mr. Potato Head’s liberal use of his lips, Tom Hardy’s neglect of his razor, and Faye Dunaway’s fear of apostrophes, as well as a shocking Hathaway Protocol. It’s a week of regrets, as Irini’s belief in her own festival foresight lost her a fair bit of cash, while Naomi Watts finally bit the bullet and admitted that “Diana” wasn’t all that. Who knew?
Opening Segment: Discussing the recently announced line-up for this year’s Cannes Film Festival, featuring anticipation of films by David Cronenberg, Xavier Dolan, Nuri Bilge Ceylan, and Andrey Zvyagintsev!
[3:50 – 26:55]
Preconception Corner
- Reaching for the Moon
- The Love Punch
- Magic Magic
[36:00 – 1:00:25]
Closing Segment: Our take on Steven Knight’s “Locke,” and random asides involving Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway!
[1:00:30 – 1:17:05]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Radiohead, “Jigsaw Falling Into Place”
Episode 94: Packing Meat [Muppets Most Wanted; Calvary; The Lunchbox]
Episode 94: Packing Meat
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It’s Episode 94 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Those tired of our sports banter may rejoice this week as we forego our usual sporty opening, instead heading on a tangent about the horrific state of 1994’s Best Actress Oscar race, and yet another aside involving the Dardennes brothers. This week’s episode sees us largely catching up with smaller films, as we tackle family drama “The Fold,” science-fiction horror “Last Days on Mars,” and John Michael McDonagh’s Catholic whodunit “Calvary.” Cal dishes all on the culinary allure of Indian romance “The Lunchbox,” before we react to the slew of cameos in the new Muppet movie, “Muppets Most Wanted,” which sadly lacks the presence of Amy Adams this time around. Elsewhere, tune in to find out what Pete’s Annette Bening moment of the week was, whose bohemian attire caused this week’s Huston Problem, how Linford Christie’s manhood and the cast of “Magic Mike” could have spiced up one of this week’s films, and which leading males bear the brunt of our wrath when we discuss the Academy’s worst ever choices for Best Actor. “Cat Ballou” fans: stay away!
The Week’s News:
- Disfigured actor in “Under the Skin” is interviewed
- Russian cinemas fined for showing “The Wolf of Wall Street”
- French subtitling fund to be cut
[3:35 – 10:40]
Preconception Corner
- The Fold
- The Lunchbox
- Calvary
- Last Days on Mars
[20:35 – 59:20]
Closing Segment: Our take on the latest Muppets movie, “Muppets Most Wanted,” and discussing memorable dual-role performances!
[59:25 – 1:14:40]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: K. Michelle, “Can’t Raise a Man”
Episode 93: Of Gods and Jen [Noah; Divergent; Tom At The Farm]
Episode 93: Of Gods and Jen
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It’s Episode 93 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
The Gods look from upon high this week, as Pete has seen two Jennifer Connelly films in a matter of days, having finally caught up with Akiva Goldsman’s bizarre fantasy “A New York Winter’s Tale,” which Cal had already seen. We’re both on board for Crowe and Connelly’s re-teaming in Darren Aronofsky’s ambitious epic “Noah,” but at least one of us was put off by its emulation of Middle Earth and strange addition of rock people (no, really). Cal has seen Xavier Dolan’s tempestuous “Tom At The Farm,” and horror maestro Vincenzo Natali’s supernatural chiller “Haunter,” while Pete settled down for futuristic blockbuster “Divergent,” starring podcast favourite Shailene Woodley. All that, plus Pete has a sofa story which recalls Christopher Nolan’s “Memento,” Cal is under the spell of a certain farmhand, Abigail Breslin is at the centre of a retro-style Huston problem, and the reveal that Lady Gaga is in the new Muppets film is greeted with minimal enthusiasm.
The Week’s News:
- The death of Mickey Rooney
- Disney announces a sequel to “Wreck-It Ralph”
- Pete has seen “A New York Winter’s Tale”
[1:30 – 6:55]
Preconception Corner
- Tom At The Farm
- Divergent
- Haunter
[17:25 – 44:30]
Closing Segment: Our take on Darren Aronofsky’s “Noah,” and discussing biblical epics!
[44:35 – 1:03:40]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Eugene McGuinness, “Shotgun”
Episode 92: Blame Canada [Passion; The Invisible Woman; Jimmy P]
Episode 92: Blame Canada
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It’s Episode 92 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we’re living up to our Boozy British stereotype, as Pete’s return from Canada brings news of some troubling Toronto drinking laws and a serious put-down to an over-excitable hockey fan. We discuss the death of a glamour puss and the reveal of Sofia Coppola’s new project, plus one of us finally gets around to Ralph Fiennes’ “The Invisible Woman,” and we have reviews of acting showcase “Jimmy P” and kidnap story “7th Floor.” Find out whether Paul Dano can atone for his many acting sins by putting together a credible list of favourite films, how Brian DePalma’s steamy “Passion” compares to the original French thriller “Love Crime, and whether Kathryn Hahn can make the most of a rare leading role in offbeat comedy “Afternoon Delight.” Discover which liberal category placement instigated a spontaneous sing-off, why Cal’s failure to have seen an Ozu film isn’t particularly useful this week, and why Abba and Rihanna trump Robin Thicke.
The Week’s News:
- The death of Kate O’Mara
- Sofia Coppola to direct a live-action version of “The Little Mermaid”
- Paul Dano announces his top ten of all time
[5:00 – 22:05]
Preconception Corner
- The Invisible Woman
- Jimmy P
- Afternoon Delight
- 7th Floor
- Days of Darkness
[33:00 – 1:15:50]
Closing Segment: Our take on Brian DePalma’s “Passion,” and likening it to original French film “Love Crime”
[1:15:55 – 1:26:10]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Rage Against The Machine, “Killing in the Name”
Episode 91: Serial Offenders [Starred Up; About Last Night; The Rocket]
Episode 91: Serial Offenders
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It’s Episode 91 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Pete makes plans to search for Caroline Dhavernas this week, as he jets off to her homestead of Canada for a family wedding, but before that we have news of a seriously enticing new sitcom, a musical comeback of epic proportions, and we remember a couple of great contributors to the world of cinema. We also talk quite a bit about football, touching on last week’s “Under the Skin,” Celtic vs. Hibs controversy, but if you’re sick of us banging on about sport, you might want to skip the first ten minutes. This week’s films include blomantic comedy “About Last Night,” touching Australian tale “The Rocket,” and British thriller “Starred Up,” the latter of which Cal managed to get through the entirety of thinking that Rupert Friend was actually Orlando Bloom. Meanwhile, we head on a litany of digressions, some of which concern the best uses of Rita Hayworth, the career of the Dardennes brothers, and our favourite portrayals of alcoholics. Dig in.
Introduction and news
This month’s Red Light District: Featuring discussion of “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs,” “The Emperor’s New Groove,” “Robot & Frank,” “Sherman’s March,” and “The Westerner”
[12:00 – 24:00]
Preconception Corner
- About Last Night
- Starred Up
- The Rocket
[33:45 – 1:16:00]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Kim Wilde, “Cambodia”
Episode 90: Celtic Confusion [Under the Skin; The Past; The Zero Theorem]
Episode 90: Celtic Confusion
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It’s Episode 90 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
The podcast is back after a fortnight’s absence with some St. Patrick’s day cheer, but will we be cheering in response to this week’s films? Asghar Farhadi fans may want to beware, as we review French language drama “The Past,” while those who helped kick-start a movie adaptation of TV show “Veronica Mars” will have to deal with a fresh take on the crime caper. Pete’s seen another quirky Tilda Swinton film this week in Terry Gilliam’s “The Zero Theorem,” before Cal reveals whether the second half of Lars Von Trier’s “Nymphomaniac” lived up to the educational might of the first. Jonathan Glazer’s shady “Under the Skin” gets us discussing (among other things) why meeting Scarlett Johansson in a nightclub is a very bad omen, and which football team’s fans bears the brunt of her seduction. The usual digressions occur, as we’re forced to address the original Huston Problem, Pete’s trepidation for an upcoming Dostoyevsky adaptation, and which TV shows we’d love to see a big-screen version of. We offer a quick lesson on grammatical composition, the Earth threatens to fall off its axis when Cal associates Katy Perry with Bjork, and Cillian Murphy throws a spanner in the works of this week’s Watson Factor. It’s all about the Celts.
Introduction and news
Preconception Corner
- The Past
- Veronica Mars
- The Zero Theorem
- Nymphomaniac: Part II
[13:40 – 51:20]
Closing Segment: Our take on Jonathan Glazer’s “Under the Skin,” and discussing films set in Glasgow
[51:25 – 1:07:10]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Beach Boys, “Caroline No”
Episode 89: Bad Badinage [Non-Stop; Nymphomaniac; The Book Thief]
Episode 89: Bad Badinage
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It’s Episode 89 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
In this week’s episode we finally put 2013 to bed with discussion of Sunday’s Oscar ceremony, which features theories on how rule changes may have helped a certain Italian film, and when on earth Amy Adams will get her moment in the sun. A listener question turns our attention to acting winners of years gone by, while we review airborne mystery/thriller “Non-Stop,” the first part of the racy “Nymphomaniac,” and Akiva Goldsman’s bewildering “A New York Winter’s Tale.” We have our say on holocaust drama “The Book Thief,” but did its Oscar-nominated score make as much impact on us as its intermittent voice-over? Plus: listen to find out how Uma Thurman is channelling Gena Rowlands this week, why Lars Von Trier’s use of Shostakovich is questionable, and a story from Pete about how unwelcome ‘entertainment’ almost turned nasty. It’s all about the badinage.
Introduction and non-film news
Opening Segment:
Discussing the winners of this year’s Academy Awards, plus a listener question!
[4:25 – 22:40]
Preconception Corner
- Nymphomaniac: Volume I
- The Book Thief
- A New York Winter’s Tale (mild spoilers!)
- Non-Stop
[31:40 – 1:17:50]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: The Cardigans, “Erase & Rewind”
Episode 88: The Cheese Connection [Oscar Predictions; The Lego Movie; Only Lovers Left Alive]
Episode 88: The Cheese Connection
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It’s Episode 88 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
In this week’s episode we deviate between the worlds of arthouse and animation, as we review critical cartoon hits “The Lego Movie” and “Mr. Peabody & Sherman,” gay murder mystery drama “Stranger By the Lake” and moody vampire tale “Only Lovers Left Alive,” but was everything awesome on all fronts? And then we launch into some Oscar predictions in 21 of the 24 categories, discussing if the year might echo 1972’s Godfather vs. Cabaret tussle, and whether justice can prevail in the Supporting Actress race. We ponder whether anyone will remember what Tilda Swinton won her Oscar for, why Pink might be the hottest colour at the ceremony, Tom Ford’s idealisation of street corners, and the revelation that dwarf-throwing is still prevalent in modern society. Pete’s Dad also makes a brief cameo, although he didn’t get a chance to enlighten us on the virtues of Lindsay Lohan and Dolly Parton.
The Week’s News:
- The death of Harold Ramis
- Performers announced for the Oscars
- Zhang Yimou to helm first English language film
[2:20 – 8:10]
Preconception Corner
- The Lego Movie
- Mr. Peabody & Sherman
- Stranger By the Lake
- Only Lovers Left Alive
[15:05 – 48:55]
Closing Segment: Our predictions for this year’s Academy Awards!
[49:00 – 1:10:30]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Rihanna, “Russian Roulette”
Episode 87: The Myth of Socrates [Top Tens of 2013; Monuments Men; BAFTA winners]
Episode 87: The Myth of Socrates
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It’s Episode 87 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode sees the return of previous podcast guest Irini M, who helps us discuss George Clooney’s World War II caper “Monuments Men” and ponder some latest film news, featuring a death, a coming-out, and a Supporting Actress tragedy. And then we all reveal our top tens of 2013 (which takes a while), but it proves difficult for some to bite their tongues about each others’ picks. Listener questions instigate a Greek history lesson, but our guest remains coy throughout the interrogation, meanwhile we discuss one of Gregory Peck’s more bizarre performances, which films should have replaced “Before Sunset” and/or “Before Midnight” in the romantic trilogy, why one of Cal’s top ten was lucky to have seen the light of day, and which of Irini’s inclusions she had to apologise to Pete about. We have some audio issues in the early part of the podcast, but the last hour recorded well, and we end with Jennifer Lawrence’s karaoke favourite.
The Week’s News:
- The death of Shirley Temple
- Ellen Page comes out
- BAFTA winners
[2:40 – 15:05]
Preconception Corner
- Monuments Men
[25:35 – 32:55]
Closing Segment: Our top tens of 2013, featuring discussion of “The Grandmaster,” “Her,” and much more, plus our favourite performances of the year!
[33:00 – 1:25:00]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Wings, “Live and Let Die”
Episode 86: Rue De Simple [Her; Bastards; An Oversimplification Of Her Beauty]
Episode 86: Rue De Simple
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It’s Episode 86 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Pete finally got his wish, as our latest episode sneaks in under the hour mark, with just three films featured this week. Nevertheless, we get into fairly meaty discussions about Claire Denis’s sexually-charged “Bastards” and Terence Nance’s incredibly personal documentary “An Oversimplification Of Her Beauty,” which had both of us rather perplexed. Pete was counting on Spike Jonze’s “Her” to be the saviour of 2013’s cinematic worth, but did either or both of us get past that dead cat phone-sex convo? An odd opening news segment leads to the pimping of an underseen world cinema classic, some rare positive words about Clint Eastwood, and a chat about the spectrum of quality in Hitchcock remakes, while we lament the fall from grace of a famous child actor, discuss the President of France’s bit on the side, and ponder the beastly attributes of a certain French actor.
The Week’s News:
- The death of Gabriel Axel
- Tina Fey and Amy Poehler to host next year’s Golden Globes
- Clint Eastwood is a real-life hero
- Channing Tatum is writing “Magic Mike 2”
- Shia LaBoeuf wears paper bag to premiere of “Nymphomaniac” at Berlin; echoes Eric Cantona
[2:40 – 10:40]
Preconception Corner
- Bastards
- An Oversimplification Of Her Beauty
- Her
[15:25 – 51:15]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Terrorvision, “Perseverance”
Episode 85: The Saldana Situation [Lone Survivor; Out of the Furnace; 2013 Catch Up]
Episode 85: The Saldana Situation
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It’s Episode 85 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we’re back to a fairly lengthy running time, when the week’s slate reaches a lofty seven films, as we catch up on 2013 films we missed. The jury’s out as to whether Pete will agree with Cal’s affection for “The Spectacular Now,” “Short Term 12” and “Museum Hours,” and whether Cal will share Pete’s disdain for “The Place Beyond the Pines” and admiration for “The Wall.” We also take the time out to discuss a couple of Friday’s cinema releases as Cal tackles raucous war drama “Lone Survivor,” and Pete deals with the blue-collar criminality in “Out Of The Furnace.” We mourn the recent passing of Philip Seymour Hoffman with a discussion of our favourite performances of his, and mull over some recent Oscar controversy. Tune in to find out how Zoe Saldana may have unwittingly spawned a new segment for the show, why Pete is (wrongly) outraged over a previous episode’s Poupaud ruling, and which Latin singer bears the brunt of our displeasure. All this, plus a random bout of singing leads to a Dolly Parton number closing out the podcast. Yes, again.
The Week’s News:
- The deaths of Maximillian Schell and Philip Seymour Hoffman
- Kristin Scott-Thomas Is Done With Films
- Oscar nomination for “Alone Yet Not Alone” rescinded
- Cesar nominations announced
[4:30 – 19:00]
Preconception Corner
- Lone Survivor
- Out Of The Furnace
[27:55 – 47:40]
Closing Segment: Catching up with 2013 films, with comment on “Museum Hours,” “The Place Beyond the Pines,” “Short Term 12,” “The Spectacular Now” and “The Wall”
[47:50 – 1:13:50]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Dolly Parton, “Jolene”
Episode 84: Race to the Finish [Inside Llewyn Davis; August: Osage County; The Missing Picture]
Episode 84: Race to the Finish
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It’s Episode 84 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode is our shortest yet, as Pete seized the opportunity to cut the podcast at its knees in the final fleeting minutes. We didn’t quite manage to get it under an hour, but our reviews of starry ensemble drama “August:Osage County” and dour folk-scene tale “Inside Llewyn Davis” are concise enough. We discuss lesser known Oscar-nominated films “The Missing Picture” and “Cutie and the Boxer,” and ponder the Cold War charms of Kenneth Branagh’s “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit.” Pete pines for the presence of Lena Endre in one of this week’s movies, while we also chat about the politics behind foreign, animated, and documentary crossover movies, and 2013’s highs in cinematography.
The Week’s News:
- “Grace of Monaco” to open Cannes Film Festival, but which cut?
- Lindsay Lohan announces her latest project
- Alfonso Cuaron wins the Directors Guild Award
[2:25 – 8:15]
Preconception Corner
- August: Osage County
- Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit
- Cutie and the Boxer
- The Missing Picture
[14:50 – 43:30]
Closing Segment: Our take on the Coen brothers’ “Inside Llewyn Davis,” and our favourite fictional musicians on film!
[43:35 – 57:20]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Go West, “King of Wishful Thinking”
Episode 83: The Drugs Don’t Work [Wolf of Wall Street; Dallas Buyers Club; Oscar Nominations]
Episode 83: The Drugs Don’t Work
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It’s Episode 83 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode is heavy on narcotics, as we discuss the pill-popping patients in Jean Marc Vallee’s “Dallas Buyers Club,” the coke-fuelled antics of the stockbrokers in Martin Scorsese’s “The Wolf of Wall Street,” and the hallucinogenic charms of indie Chilean adventure “Crystal Fairy.” We give our lengthy verdicts on this year’s Oscar nominations, offering our best and worst picks, speculating which films would have made the cut in the old-fashioned system, and discussing historical low points for the Academy. Tune in to find out how Mary Pickford bought her Oscar, whether Pete managed to finish a film this week, and why next week’s flock of facial hair spells disaster for Melvil.
Preconception Corner
- The Wolf of Wall Street
- Crystal Fairy
- Dallas Buyers Club
[10:40 – 43:10]
Closing Segment: Discussing the recently announced Oscar nominations, and speculating on the various races!
[43:40 – 1:09:20]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Duran Duran, “Hungry Like the Wolf”
Episode 82: This Mortal Coil [12 Years a Slave; The Railway Man; Delivery Man]
Episode 82: This Mortal Coil
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It’s Episode 82 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
For once we’re getting serious, as the week’s offerings force us into discussions of torture, abortion, and slavery. The tears flowed for both of us (albeit in different films), so listen as we review wartime drama “The Railway Man,” moral dilemma documentary “After Tiller,” and awards juggernaut “12 Years a Slave.” It’s not all depression though, as Petedishes all on Vince Vaughn vehicle “Delivery Man,” while we discuss the weekend’s Golden Globe winners and look ahead to the upcoming Oscar nominations. Tune in for asides involving nomination indiscretions and 2004’s Best Actor race, find out why Pete needs a mocha before reviewing one of the week’s films, and the ranking of Paul Dano’s many crimes against humanity.
The Week’s News:
- Berlin Film Festival Jury is Announced
- BAFTA member criticises nominations
- Golden Globe winners (plus listener question from NW6 film!)
[4:35 – 17:30]
Preconception Corner
- The Railway Man
- Delivery Man
- After Tiller
[24:15 – 47:00]
Closing Segment: Our take on Steve McQueen’s “12 Years a Slave,” plus speculation on this week’s Oscar nominations!
[47:10 – 1:17:50]
The Poupaud Range
Episode 81: Patience Is a Virtue [Mandela; Last Vegas; The Patience Stone]
Episode 81: Patience Is a Virtue
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It’s Episode 81 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Any New Years resolutions to be kinder about films get well and truly broken today, as we discuss the merits (or lack thereof) of geriatric Hangover-style comedy “Last Vegas,” although at least one of the cast members appears to be keeping the hands of time at bay. Cal tackles the latest biopic of the late Nelson Mandela, subtitled “Long Walk to Freedom,” while Pete opted for the rigidity of Keanu Reeves in samurai tale “47 Ronin.” After recovering from Amy Adams’ sexy exploits last week, Pete finds a woman worth coveting in middle-Eastern drama “The Patience Stone,” but the film itself may have tested the patience of at least one of us too much. We discuss several organisations’ nominations this week, chief of which is BAFTA, while there are asides concerning Faye Dunaway’s lack of humility and Rinko Kikuchi’s vulpine ability, plus the Cage Scale makes a welcome return.
The Week’s News:
- Jane Campion will head the jury at this year’s Cannes Film Festival
- Costume Designers Guild nominations
- American Society of Cinematographers nominations
- Directors Guild of America nominations (plus listener question from Alex!)
- BAFTA nominations
[5:00 – 21:50]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Last Vegas
- 47 Ronin
- Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
- The Patience Stone
[27:15 – 1:06:15]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Kylie Minogue, “Love At First Sight”
Episode 80: The Tale of the Two Redheads [American Hustle; Walter Mitty; All Is Lost]
Episode 80: The Tale of the Two Redheads
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It’s Episode 80 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode is dominated by Amy Adams, whose plunging necklines in “American Hustle” ruffled Pete’s feathers, but did we both think her strangely-accented performance was up to scratch? After Pete dismantled the plot mechanics of Alfonso Cuaron’s “Gravity,” seaboard adventure “All Is Lost” is the latest solo star vehicle to face the podcast’s scrutiny, while a parody of a certain film in “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” had us both on the floor. Elsewhere, we discuss the regular topic of the Foreign Language Film Oscar, in the wake of the recently announced shortlist, and reveal films from world cinema that are technically eligible for bigger prizes. We’re giving our brief thoughts on the year in film before our top ten lists are announced next month, plus there are extensive thoughts on the severity of Jennifer Lawrence’s Oscar-tipped performance, and some choice words about Robert Redford’s vanity.
Opening Segment: Discussing the nine-film shortlist for the Foreign Language Oscar, general observations about Foreign Films’ troubles with eligibility, and which under-seen films are Oscar eligible this year!
[2:55 – 19:40]
Preconception Corner
- All Is Lost
- The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
[26:15 – 48:15]
Closing Segment: Our take on David O. Russell’s “American Hustle,” discussing 2013 films we’ve been catching up on, and our overall view of the cinematic year!
[48:20 – 1:10:30]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Taylor Swift, “Red”
Episode 79: The Ribcage Incident [The Desolation of Smaug; Jeune et Jolie; Fill the Void]
Episode 79: The Ribcage Incident
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There’s a healthy bout of nostalgia on this week’s podcast, as we look back on the careers of some passing filmic legends and address a 52 year-old re-release. We dive further into the awards season, with reaction to the Golden Globe nominations and discussion of the politics behind Oscar’s Makeup category. The latest Hobbit film doesn’t get the gangster treatment this time around, but it all sounds like gibberish to Pete, while fishing documentary “Leviathan” threatens to instigate a life-changing decision for Cal. We all know what happened the last time Pete ventured to see a racy French film, but will Jeune et Jolie receive the same treatment? Jewish domestic drama “Fill the Void” encourages a fruitful discussion, despite the fact that Cal saw it over a year ago, while a listener question leads to a lengthy lament about Hollywood’s current 3D fad. Tune in to see which Golden Globe snub outright shocked us, which denouncement of Amy Adams was the bombshell of the week, and some rare kind words from Pete about Christopher Nolan. The pork is in the trees.
The Week’s News:
- Oscar announces its shortlist for Best Makeup and Hairstyling
- Golden Globe nominations
[3:15 – 17:45]
Opening Segment: Discussing the careers of the late Joan Fontaine, Peter O’Toole, and Eleanor Parker
[17:50 – 25:00]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug [plus Listener Question from Connor!]
- Jeune et Jolie
- Leviathan
- The Innocents (re-release)
- Fill the Void
[29:40 – 1:11:40]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Lana Del Rey, “Young and Beautiful”
Episode 78: The Nose of the Poots [Nebraska; Frozen; Kill Your Darlings]
Episode 78: The Nose of the Poots
[Or How Everyone Should Join Us in Loving Zack Snyder Being Owned]
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Our latest episode was recorded in two parts due to a technical hitch, but hopefully you won’t be able to tell. The break allowed us to return post-Screen Actors Guild Awards announcement to give a brief run-down of our thoughts, but are we happy with the nominees? Cal had some worrying preconceptions about awards player “Nebraska,” after the (among other things) criminal voice-over in the first fifteen minutes of “The Descendants,” but did its monochrome mumblecore ways win us over? The big questions of the week are where Ethan Hawke’s 73rd film of 2013, “Getaway,” ranks on the dreaded Cage Scale, and whether Selena Gomez can manage to keep her clothes on, while some unexpected female casting in “Kill Your Darlings” threatens to shake up this week’s edition of The Watson Factor. We discuss the virtues of Disney’s “Frozen,” which has us both rapturous about one thing or another, and we take time out to consider the fragility of the Supporting Actor Oscar race, the allure of Imogen Poots’ nose, and revel in Zack Snyder being dealt a body blow by AMPAS.
The Week’s News:
- Woody Allen will not accept his Cecil B. DeMille award
- “Man of Steel” not on Oscar’s Visual Effects shortlist
- European Film Award winners
- British Independent Film Award winners
- L.A Film Critics winners
- Boston Film Critics winners
[3:10 – 17:15]
Listener Question [Alex], plus some anticipation for this week’s Golden Globe nominations
[17:20 – 24:45]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Nebraska
- Kill Your Darlings
- Getaway
[32:00 – 59:20]
Closing Segment: Our review of Disney’s “Frozen,” and discussing yesterday’s Screen Actors Guild nominees!
[59:25 – 1:18:20]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Madonna, “Frozen”
Episode 77: To Seydoux Or Not Seydoux [Saving Mr. Banks; Blue Is the Warmest Colour; Catching Fire]
Episode 77: To Seydoux Or Not Seydoux
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This week’s episode is particularly risque, as controversial erotic French drama, “Blue is the Warmest Colour,” hits UK screens. Both of us were taken aback by the sapphic desires, but did its all-girl relationship work for us? We had dramatically different opinions of Brian De Palma’s “Carrie,” but Cal caught Kimberley Peirce’s remake and had some choice words to say about it, while a review of “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” forces Pete to ponder questionable costume designing. We discuss the mythologising in Disney’s factually dodgy “Saving Mr. Banks,” before chatting about our favourite films about authors. Tune in to hear us re-introduce the Cage Scale, joke about vagina and side-boob shots, and reveal which of the week’s films channels “Mommie Dearest.” All that, plus an epic news segment concerning the latest critics awardsfoils Pete’s plan for an hour-long episode. Maybe one day we’ll get there.
The Week’s News:
- Smooth FM’s Top 500
- Tom Daley comes out of the closet
- The death of Paul Walker
- Peter O’ Toole comes out of retirement
- Oscar Documentary Shortlist announced
- New York Film Critics winners
- National Board of Review winners
[2:10 – 26:25]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
- Blue Is the Warmest Colour
- Carrie
[31:35 – 1:04:25]
Closing Segment: Our review of Disney’s “Saving Mr. Banks,” and discussing our favourite films about real-life authors!
[1:04:30 – 1:24:05]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: The Temptations, “Treat Her Like a Lady”
Episode 76: The Threesome [The Family; Parkland; Short Term 12] with Special Guest Irini M.
Episode 76: The Threesome
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It’s Episode 76 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
In this week’s episode we’re joined by special guest and friend of the podcast Irini Markogiannaki, who helps us discuss the new releases at UK cinemas and chimes in with thoughts on eventful news items from the past few days. Some minor audio issues should mostly have been ironed out in the editing process, so you can enjoy our reviews of Luc Besson’s mafia comedy “The Family,” and Peter Landesman’s JFK assassination movie “Parkland” in relatively audible splendour. Cal and Irini reveal whether indie critics darling “Short Term 12” lives up to the hype, and there are verdicts on angst-ridden baby swap drama “Like Father Like Son” and black and white mumblecore offering “Computer Chess.” We ponder Leeds Film Festival’s audience favourites, conduct a rather epic
The Week’s News:
- 50th anniversary episode of Doctor Who airs
- The first explicit trailer for Lars Von Trier’s “Nymphomaniac” is released
- Jason Statham calls for an Oscar to be introduced for stuntmen
- Leeds Film Festival reveals its top 20 audience favourites
[2:10 – 24:15]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Parkland
- Short Term 12
- Like Father, Like Son
- Computer Chess
- The Family
[34:15 – 1:13:10]
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Cat Power, “The Greatest”
Episode 75: Pillow Talk [The Counsellor; The Butler; Don Jon]
Episode 75: Pillow Talk
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It’s Episode 75 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode sees the return of the French quarter, as Pete ventured to a local film festival to catch his beloved Daniel Auteuil’s recent double-feature, “Marius” and “Fanny,” as well as Juliette Binoche in “Camille Claudel 1915.” Elsewhere, we’re discussing the joys of this week’s mainstream releases, including Scarlett Johansson’s womanly prowess in sexed-up comedy “Don Jon,” and the varying degrees of raunch Penelope Cruz and Cameron Diaz bring to Ridley Scott’s brutal thriller “The Counsellor.” We ponder the difference between BAFTA and Oscar, discuss whether voice performances should vie for awards, while a listener question forces us to address the mediocrity of some of the Academy’s Supporting Actress winners from years gone by. There are huge preconceptions about Lee Daniels’ “The Butler,” but can its depiction of the civil rights movement survive our scrutiny and mark a mature step forward for the director? Listen to find out, and enjoy musings on the absurdity of John Cusack’s fake nose , how Zooey Deschanel might have ruined one of the week’s offerings, and why Cuba Gooding Jr. and Jane Fonda really need to hang out more.
The Week’s News:
- The Honorary Oscars have been handed out
- Scarlett Johansson wins Best Actress at the Rome Film Festival for “Her”
- There’s going to be a sequel to “It’s a Wonderful Life”
[2:25 – 13:25]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The Counsellor
- Don Jon
- Marius / Fanny
- Camille Claudel 1915
[36:40 – 1:04:55]
Closing Segment: Our take on Lee Daniels’ “The Butler,”* and discussing historical inaccuracies in films! [1:03:50 – 1:23:40]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Rhye, “Hunger”
Episode 74: The Single Life [Gravity; Gloria; The Nun]
Episode 74: The Single Life
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It’s Episode 74 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This episode sees the belated return of the Red Light District, after it had to be excised from last week’s epic 100+-minute recording. Cal is the only one bringing glad tidings, with discussion of a Coen brothers classic, and a semi-positive take on one of Nicholas Cage’s stranger efforts. It’s the week of the singletons, as we caught up with Paulina Garcia’s free-spirited “Gloria,” while Sandra Bullock finds herself alone and stranded in awards juggernaut “Gravity.” It’s safe to say that one of us was rather unimpressed by the space-set adventure, which prompts a brief discussion on films that failed to convince us, including an Ashton Kutcher vehicle and a recent sci-fi hit. Pete’s back from the Leeds Film Festival having seen Serbia’s submission for the Foreign Language Film Oscar, “Circles,” and a concert marred by technical debacles. Listen as we discuss the year’s latest batch of nominations, Isabelle Huppert’s lustful imposition, and Pete’s lament over the lack of viable romantic options among women over thirty. Violins at the ready!
The Week’s News:
- Lynne Ramsay is being sued by the producers of “Jane Got a Gun”
- Judi Dench and Harvey Weinstein fight the MPAA
- European Film Award nominations are announced
- British Independent Film Award nominations are announced
[3:35 – 20:55]
Opening Segment: This month’s Red Light District, featuring comment on “Blood Simple,” “Knowing,” and “Mouchette”
Preconception Corner*
Reviews of:
- Gloria
- Circles
- The Nun
[36:40 – 1:04:55]
Closing Segment: Our take on Alfonso Cuaron’s “Gravity,” and discussing films we struggle to find convincing! [1:05:00 – 1:22:10]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Ugo Tozzi, “Gloria”
Episode 73: Smooth Digressions [Philomena; Enough Said; Turbo]
Episode 73: Smooth Digressions
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It’s Episode 73 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
We’ve got plenty of material for you this week, as we bring you five films, a healthy news segment, and an epic Preconception Corner. Having already achieved the Sheppard seal of approval, Cal caught up with Stephen Frears’ “Philomena,” plus we tackle the Romanian Oscar hopeful “Child’s Pose,” and well-received animated film “Turbo.” As Awards Season hots up, we assess where the finalists for the Best Animated Feature Oscar all stand, and look at the nominees for France’s distinguished Louis Delluc prize. There’s a mini faux-pas regarding James Gandolfini during this week’s review of “Enough Said,” while only one of us managed to sit through all of booze-filled comedy “Drinking Buddies.” Listen to hear which former Oscar nominee’s family member contacted Cal this week, which sitcom scarred Pete’s early cinema-going days, and how anticipation of cartoon snails somehow evolves into a rant about a certain British radio station. You couldn’t make it up.
The Week’s News:
- Wes Anderson’s “The Grand Budapest Hotel” will open next year’s Berlin Film Festival
- “Renoir” snubbed by the Louis Delluc Prize committee
- Pete’s going to another film festival
- Cal has a story about a former Oscar nominee
[2:30 – 15:40]
*Preconception Corner*
Reviews of:
- Philomena*
- Enough Said*
- Child’s Pose
- Drinking Buddies
[25:00 – 1:02:00]
*Listener questions are addressed at the end of each review
Closing Segment: Our take on Dreamworks’ “Turbo” plus a discussion of the finalised list of entries for the Animated Feature Oscar, and an analysis of the race! [1:02:15 – 1:20:25]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Santana feat. Rob Thomas, “Smooth”
Episode 72: Out In Left Field [Bad Grandpa; Ender’s Game; Closed Circuit]
Episode 72: Out In Left Field
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It’s Episode 72 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we’re leaning to the left, as the radical politics of Polish paean “Walesa, Man of Hope,” and terrorist thriller “Closed Circuit,” have conflicting degrees of success. We discuss some rather troubling casting news from this side of the ocean, before Cal dishes all on festival favourite “The Selfish Giant” and Pete reveals whether populist hit “Bad Grandpa” is worth a watch. Some probable Star Trek blasphemy gets in the way of this week’s review of “Ender’s Game,” as Cal dares to compare it to the long-running franchise, plus there’s love for Colleen Atwood, a nod to Reese Witherspoon’s scene stealing intonation in the trailer for “Rendition,” and a theory on why Alfred Hitchcock’s biggest regret is nothing to worry about.
The Week’s News:
- The death of Lou Reed
- Lorde storms the music charts
- Tom Hardy cast as Elton John
- Tim Roth cast as Sepp Blatter
- “Momuments Men” moves to 2014
- The Gotham nominations are announced
[4:10 – 11:55]
*Preconception Corner*
Reviews of:
- Closed Circuit
- Ender’s Game
- Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa
- The Selfish Giant
[19:50 – 1:01:30]
Closing Segment: Our take on Andrzej Wajda’s “Walesa, Man of Hope” and discussing our first-time cinema experiences of films by Alfred Hitchcock, Robert Altman, Wong Kar-Wai, and Orson Welles [1:01:35 – 1:22:50]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Late Night Alumni, “All or Nothing”
Episode 71: The Lazarus Situation [London Film Festival; Captain Phillips; Prince Avalanche]
Episode 71: The Lazarus Situation
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It’s Episode 71 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode is a London Film Festival special, as we round up some of the films we caught in the capital, including competition winner “Ida,” and acclaimed German drama “The Police Officer’s Wife.” We discuss directors battling conflicts with studios, including Darren Aronofsky and Olivier Dahan, before launching into an assault on Harvey Weinstein, after one of us saw the compromised cut of Wong Kar-Wai’s “The Grandmaster.” Cal tackles new releases “Prince Avalanche” and Belgian Oscar entry “The Broken Circle Breakdown,” before we reveal whether we liked Paul Greengrass’ “Captain Phillips” as much as similar Danish thriller “A Hijacking,” and ponder what on earth Catherine Keener is doing in the film. Tune in for digressions about Melissa George’s hair, the Best Actor Oscar lineup of 1994, and the dangers of meeting Americans in Eastern Europe.
The Week’s News:
- Catherine Deneuve turns 70
- “The Wolf of Wall Street” to be released this year
- Olivier Dahan vs. Harvey Weinstein
- Darren Aronofsky vs. Christians
[3:35 – 12:30]
Opening Segment: Our round-up of the London Film Festival, featuring discussion of “Bends,” “The Grandmaster,” “Ida,” “Must Have Been Love,” “On My Way,” and “The Police Officer’s Wife.”
[12:35 – 47:50]
Reviews of:
- Prince Avalanche
- The Broken Circle Breakdown
[52:25 – 1:02:30]
Closing Segment: Our take on seaboard-set adventure “Captain Phillips,” and discussing our favourite films set on the open water! [1:02:35 – 1:17:10]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Tori Amos, “Talula”
Episode 70: Home Truths [The Fifth Estate; Baggage Claim; Le Weekend]
Episode 70: Home Truths
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It’s Episode 70 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s epic episode is our longest yet, as we give our take on two films with radically different approaches to marriage. We found romantic comedy “Baggage Claim” a tad bonkers, but certain members of its Paula Patton-led cast won us over, while we reveal whether Roger Michell’s “Le Weekend” can shrug off its terrible title and avoid becoming another chronicle of an elderly gentleman’s libido. We have reviews of Wikileaks drama “The Fifth Estate” and Kim Ki-Duk’s twisted thriller “Pieta,” before embarking on a lengthy discussion of Oscar highs and lows from years gone by. We take your suggestions, address a listener question regarding this year’s Best Actress race, and tease next week’s report from the London Film Festival. Tune in to find out which film prompted Pete to start juggling marshmallows, which critical faux-pas caused Cal to become appalled, which famous British actress played the flute in Pete’s school orchestra, and how Willem Dafoe’s character poster for “Nymphomaniac” may have us crying out for “Body of Evidence,” despite what Julianne Moore might think.
The Week’s News:
- The Death of Mark ‘Chopper’ Read
- Character posters are released for “Nymphomaniac”
- The first Oscar screeners are sent out (“Mud”; “Stories We Tell”; “The Croods)
- Tina Fey and Amy Poehler will return to host the Golden Globes
- Golden Globe category placements: “Blue Jasmine” goes drama, while “Before Midnight” goes comedy
[1:40 – 14:30]
Listener Question: “Is there ANY WAY Cate Blanchett won’t win the Oscar for “Blue Jasmine”? [Eoin]
[14:40 – 18:55]
Reviews of:
- The Fifth Estate
- Pieta
- Baggage Claim
- Le Week-End
[27:05 – 1:09:30]
Closing Segment: Revealing our most loved and loathed Oscar lineups from years gone by, and discussing listener suggestions! With comment on 1937’s Best Actress Lineup and 1955’s list of supporting actresses, plus much more! [1:09:35 – 1:27:55]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Javiera Mena, “Luz de Piedra de Luna”
Episode 69: Lowering the Brow [How I Live Now; Filth; Thanks For Sharing]
Episode 69: Lowering the Brow
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It’s Episode 69 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we hit rock bottom in terms of class, as we review several films depicting trashy and/or deviant sexual behaviour. Saoirse Ronan sheds blood and taboos in her third outing this year, post-apocalyptic drama “How I Live Now,” while her once-“Atonement” co-star James McAvoy is off the leash in crazed thriller “Filth.” Elsewhere, Cal tuned in for sex addiction ensemble piece “Thanks For Sharing” and the sobering World War II-set “Emperor,” while Pete’s affection for Aubrey Plaza led him to high-school comedy “The To Do List.” Our early segments see the return of podcast favourites Lindsay Lohan and Miley Cyrus, before we discuss James L. Brooks’ degrees of success with actresses, and Cal tries to kill off Debbie Reynolds. Listen to find out how kids favourite Peppa Pig features in this week’s episode, how many digressions concern Jennifer Connelly, and why Roger Michell really needs to stop making films about horny old men.
The Week’s News:
- Miley Cyrus’s album ‘Bangerz’ was released
- The death of Patrice Chereau
- The BFI reveal a new video-on-demand service
- Quentin Tarantino discloses his top ten of 2013 (yes… already!)
[1:20 – 9:20]
This month’s Red Light District! Featuring discussion of “I Know Who Killed Me,” “The Peach Thief,” “Postcards from the Edge,” “Robot & Frank” and “White Space” [9:25 – 20:20]
Reviews of:
- Filth
- Thanks For Sharing
- The To-Do List
- Emperor
[27:50 – 1:00:35]
Closing Segment: Our take on Kevin MacDonald’s post-apocalyptic drama “How I Live Now,” and discussing our favourite film soundtracks! [1:00:40 – 1:19:15]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Christina Millian, “Dip It Low”
Episode 68: Taking No Prisoners [Prisoners; Blue Jasmine; Runner Runner]
Episode 68: Taking No Prisoners
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It’s Episode 68 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we’re talking “Prisoners” but not taking any, as Denis Villeneuve’s first foray into the studio system leaves at least one of us distinctly unimpressed. Pete interrupts Cal’s plot run-down of the film with his best Paul Dano impression, while we dig into the hilarity of Melissa Leo, and cite the worst performances from actors in every film this week. Elsewhere, Pete gives his take on Italy’s official Oscar submission “The Great Beauty,” which features some interesting pubic design work, and Cal responds to Pete’s abandonment of Gemma Arterton by braving Latin-set thriller “Runner Runner.” We spend ages talking about Cate Blanchett’s Oscar-tipped turn in “Blue Jasmine,” and ponder Sally Hawkins’ chances of finally getting that overdue nod. How this didn’t turn into a bitching session about 2008’s Best Actress line-up is anyone’s guess.
The Week’s News:
- Bennett Miller’s “Foxcatcher” pushed to 2014
- Foreign Language Oscar submissions: Egypt submit “Winter of Discontent”; Denmark submit “The Hunt”; Iran submit “The Past,” Cambodia submit “The Missing Picture”; Israel submit “Bethlehem”; Italy submit “The Great Beauty”
[2:20 – 14:50]
Reviews of:
- The Great Beauty
- Blue Jasmine
- Runner Runner
[22:20 – 53:00]
Closing Segment: Our take on Denis Villeneuve’s sobering drama “Prisoners,” and discussing our least favourite performances from this week’s crop of actors! [53:05 – 1:12:25]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Blondie, “Denis”
Episode 67: Advanced Iconography [Diana; 42; The Call]
Episode 67: Advanced Iconography
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It’s Episode 67 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week we’re asking ourselves whether this is the real life or just fantasy, as biographical dramas about two very different people hit cinema screens in the UK. As self-confessed baseball fans, the Jackie Robinson movie “42” was very high on our agenda, while Olivier Hirschbiegel’s heavily derided “Diana” gave us uneasy preconceptions. From there, Cal tackles serial-killer thriller “The Call,” and Pete caught coming-of-age tale “The Way Way Back” and Arabian drama “Winter of Discontent.” A modest news segment turns into a lengthy discussion about Foreign Language Oscar nominees of the past (like that’s never happened before) and we launch into digressions involving the measure of Marcello Mastrioianni’s Oscar nominations, the patriotism of the French, and some huge concerns about next week’s releases.
The Week’s News:
- Foreign Language Oscar submissions: Hong Kong submit “The Grandmaster,” France submit “Renoir,” and the UK submit “Metro Manila”
- “Grace of Monaco” and “Wolf of Wall Street” pushed to 2014
- Terrence Malick is counter-suiting the people suing him for the “Voyage of Time” debacle
- Quentin Tarantino to star as Roger Corman in a biopic directed by Joe Dante
- Sofia Coppola directing the next Phoenix video
- Abdellatif Kechiche hits back at criticism
[2:15 – 20:15]
Reviews of:
- 42
- The Way, Way Back
- The Call
- Winter Of Discontent
[29:30 – 1:02:10]
Closing Segment: Our take on Olivier Hirschbiegel’s “Diana,” and assessing just how much of a disaster it is for those involved! [1:02:15 – 1:17:55]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: D:Ream, “Things Can Only Get Better”
Episode 66: Fast and Loose [Rush; White House Down; Ain’t Them Bodies Saints]
Episode 66: Fast and Loose
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It’s Episode 66 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
The Week’s News:
- Foreign Language Oscar submissions from Saudia Arabia, The Netherlands, and Australia
- Woody Allen to receive the Cecil B. DeMille award at this year’s Golden Globes
- “12 Years a Slave” wins the People’s Choice award at the Toronto Film Festival
- “The Butler” passes $100m in domestic box-office
- The first teaser trailer is released for “Grace of Monaco”
[1:40 – 15:10]
Listener Request: Discussing Venice’s 70th anniversary short films project [Irini] [15:15 – 20:05]
Reviews of:
- Ain’t Them Bodies Saints
- White House Down
- The Artist and the Model
[26:35 – 54:35]
Closing Segment: Our take on Ron Howard’s “Rush,” dissecting its Oscar chances, and discussing our favourite cinematic playboys [54:45 – 1:12:35]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Kelis, “Caught Out There”
Episode 65: Preferential Pork [About Time; Blackfish; Any Day Now]
Episode 65: Preferential Pork
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It’s Episode 65 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Festivals are on the brain this week, as we discuss the unexpected winners from Venice’s Bertolucci-headed jury, and what to expect from the London Film Festival in October. Cal saw a rare film outing for Alan Cumming, in gay adoption drama “Any Day Now,” and braced the bloody horror “No One Lives,” while Pete opted for killer whale documentary “Blackfish.” We have a review of the academic “Museum Hours,” and Richard Curtis’ “About Time,” which Cal only saw a quarter of, due to some terrible projection incompetence in Hammersmith, and the Red Light District returns with films from the 1940s and 1980s. All this, plus our usual digressions, in which we launch into tangents on the prospect of a Liv Ullman comeback, the benefits of “Certified Copy,” and why Charles Laughton’s ham is more tolerable than Philip Seymour Hoffman’s.
The Week’s News, featuring discussion about this year’s honourary Oscars, Meryl Streep’s Oscar category reversal, Germany’s Foreign Language Oscar submission, and some “Blue is the Warmest Colour” controversy [3:00 – 12:20]
Opening Segment: Discussing the winners from this year’s Venice Film Festival, and the recently announced lineup for the London Film Festival! [12:25 – 22:10]
Reviews of:
- Any Day Now
- About Time
- No One Lives
- Blackfish
- Museum Hours
[25:45 – 1:10:00]
Closing Segment: This month’s Red Light District, featuring discussion about “Barfly,” “Flying Lessons,” “The Suspect,” and “World War Z” [1:10:05 – 1:18:40]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Cat Power, “The Greatest”
Episode 64: The Return of Wowface [Venice Film Festival; Upstream Color; You’re Next]
Episode 64: The Return of Wowface
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It’s Episode 64 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode sees Pete return from the Venice Film Festival with reviews of Stephen Fears’ “Philomena” and Sion Sono’s “Why Don’t You Play In Hell,” among other work by Miguel Gomes, Kelly Reichardt, and John Curran. We also take time out to discuss reaction on the Lido to Alfonso Cuaron’s “Gravity.” This week’s films see the highly-anticipated release of abstract entanglement drama “Upstream Color,” claustrophobic horror “You’re Next,” and the return of Michael Bay with “Pain & Gain,” which had Cal somewhat worried. As usual we go off on a few tangents, as Pete pimps the beauty of 2004 in film, laments the absence of Nadine Labaki from one of the week’s offerings, and we ponder how Liv Ullman would have fared in “Miss Congeniality.” And then we reveal the exciting news that an underseen long-time podcast favourite may soon be coming to a website near you, but keep that one quiet, won’t you?
The Week’s News, featuring discussion about the death of Sir David Frost, and the casting of “Fifty Shades of Grey”! [2:35 – 6:05]
Reviews of:
- Upstream Color (warning: minor spoilers)
- Pain & Gain
- You’re Next
[9:10 – 33:45]
Closing Segment: Pete’s report from the Venice Film Festival, featuring reviews and commentary on “Why Don’t You Play In Hell?” “Tracks,” “Holding Breath,” “Redemption,” “We Are the Best!” “May in the Summer,” “Philomena,” “Night Moves,” and some brief thoughts about “Gravity” [33:50 – 1:18:30]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Placebo, “Taste In Men”
Episode 63: Puzzling Downfalls [Elysium; Lovelace; We’re the Millers]
Episode 63: Puzzling Downfalls
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It’s Episode 63 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
Peroni comes out to play in this week’s episode, as Pete prepares for his impending flight to Venice by cracking open a bottle or two and lays into some usual suspects, including Nicolas Winding Refn and Kate Hudson. Cal saw Jennifer Aniston bare all in “We’re the Millers” and Amanda Seyfried get it all out in “Lovelace,” and reveals a risqué podcast game to test Pete’s knowledge of steamy film scenes. We review Nell Blonkamp’s sci-fi spectacle “Elysium,” which features some remarkable performances, and welcome Julianne Moore’s return to the podcast in “What Maisie Knew.” All that, plus an epic news segment, some banter about Glenn vs. Sigourney in 1988, and discussing how nobody can quite remember what Ruby Dee’s two lines were in “American Gangster.”
The Week’s News, featuring discussion of Miley Cyrus’ performance at the VMAs, the casting of Ben Affleck as Batman, and the death of Julie Harris, among other things! [1:55 – 15:10]
Reviews of:
- Lovelace (plus a game!)
- What Maisie Knew
- We’re the Millers
[21:40 – 1:03:00]
Closing Segment: Our take on Nell Blonkamp’s “Elysium,” starring Matt Damon, and summarising this past Summer in film! [1:03:05 – 1:19:50]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Alice Russell, “Drinking Song Interlude”
Episode 62: Nights to Forget [Bachelorette; 2 Guns; Chennai Express]
Episode 62: Nights to Forget
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It’s Episode 62 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
This week’s episode features two epic tales of unfortunate evenings, as Pete takes the role of storyteller for a missed flight debacle and a drunken car-key faux pas. We give our verdict on a night from hell for the characters in wedding comedy “Bachelorette,” and dig into the viability of the politics in Scandinavian prostitution procedural “Call Girl.” Cal went to bat for the rampant action comedy “2 Guns,” and Iain Softley’s welcome return to directing, “Trap for Cinderella,” while Pete (surprise, surprise) was this week’s Bollywood correspondent by opting for Indian smash hit “Chennai Express.” Illness brings out Cal’s Kathleen Turner voice for a podcast reprise, while we lambast the academy for their 1997 shortcomings and look ahead to Julianne Moore’s ‘In the Mood’ debut next week.
The Week’s News, featuring discussion of Harrison Ford’s latest box-office bomb, and the prospect of a possible Ben-Hur remake, plus Pete’s epic story about losing his car keys [0:55 – 6:25]
Opening Segment: The final part of our 2009 Venice retrospective, featuring discussion about “Women Without Men,” “Crush,” “One-Zero,” and “Mr. Nobody” [6:30 – 21:15]
Reviews of:
- 2 Guns
- Call Girl
- Chennai Express
- Trap For Cinderella
[26:05 – 54:35]
Closing Segment: Our take on R-rated wedding comedy “Bachelorette” and discussing other movies to document madcap nuptials! [54:40 – 1:06:25]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: AlunaGeorge, “Bad Idea”
Episode 61: Harsh Terrain [The Lone Ranger; The Canyons; From Up on Poppy Hill]
Episode 61: Harsh Terrain
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It’s Episode 61 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
After Pete’s whirlwind trip to Croatia we unite for cinematic visits to canyons, hills, and valleys. The return of a flesh-baring Lindsay Lohan sets pulses racing, but the trashy politics and Hollywood commentary of “The Canyons” only works for one of us. Cal goes it alone for the latest Studio Ghibli offering “From Up on Poppy Hill,” before we dig into Disney’s big-budget “The Lone Ranger,” ending with a fierce takedown of attempts by its producer and stars to blame the film’s failure on critics. We have a ton of film news to chew up, as well as part two of our 2009 Venice retrospective, and digressions about Rosalind Russell, Sergio Leone, and Oscar’s Foreign Language Film category. Yes, again.
Opening Segment: Part two of our 2009 Venice retrospective, featuring discussion about [14:25 – 35:40]
Reviews of:
- The Canyons
- From Up on Poppy Hill
[42:40 – 1:02:35]
Closing Segment: Our take on Disney’s “The Lone Ranger,” and discussing whether the critics are at fault for its box-office failure and discussing memorable buddy/cop movies! [1:02:40 – 1:20:45]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Foxes, “Youth”
Episode 60: Sobriety Is a Virtue [The Conjuring; The Heat; Only God Forgives]
Episode 60: Sobriety Is a Virtue
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It’s Episode 60 of In the Mood for Podcast, a British-based film podcast hosted by Calum Reed of Ultimate Addict and Pete Sheppard of In the Mood for Blog.
A peroni-less podcast sees Pete on his best behaviour when confronted with a listener question that dares to approach the subject of Keira Knightley (see, we will answer questions about literally anything!) and when forced to tackle “Paris-Manhattan,” a French love letter to Woody Allen. Cal shows less resistance when he reviews “Only God Forgives,” before we unite for reviews of the week’s Hollywood fare, buddy-cop comedy “The Heat,” star-studded action sequel “Red 2,” and spooky box-office smash “The Conjuring.” We’ve also got this week’s Red Light District, which handily ties into Joe Wright’s filmography, and part one of our 2009 Venice retrospective, featuring comment on “I Am Love” and “White Material,” among others. Tune in to find out which country Pete is jetting off to this week, which film’s marketing annoys Cal, and whether Kristin Scott-Thomas’s embodiment of a famous fashion personality bests Helen Mirren’s channeling of Bette Davis. It’s diva overload!
The Week’s News
Listener Question: Is Keira Knightley the Queen of period films? [Zed] [8:15 – 13:00]
Opening Segment: This month’s Red Light District (pimped films include “Letter Never Sent” and “Romancing in Thin Air”) and part one of our 2009 Venice Diaries! [13:05 – 32:30]
*Preconception Corner*
Reviews of:
- The Conjuring
- Red 2
- Paris-Manhattan
- Only God Forgives
[37:45 – 1:04:05]
Closing Segment: Our take on Paul Feig’s feminist comedy “The Heat,” and discussing memorable buddy/cop movies! [1:04:10 – 1:16:50]
The Watson Factor
The Poupaud Range
Outro Music: Holly Valance, “Down Boy”
