Episode 164: Awakenings [The Revenant; The Force Awakens; Spotlight; Carol]
It’s Episode 164 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’re back from a two-month absence with a jam-packed podcast, focusing on the big juggernauts of this year’s awards season, as well as the seventh instalment of a certain sci-fi franchise. We tackle Steven Spielberg’s latest moody historical drama “Bridge of Spies,” claustrophobic double-hander “Room,” and Todd Haynes’ lesbian tale “Carol,” which had to hurdle prickly preconceptions from Pete about one of its main stars. We give our verdict on Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s forest-set revenge tale “The Revenant,” Thomas McCarthy’s journalism drama “Spotlight,” and the biggest film of 2015, “The Force Awakens,” while we may have had a few choice words to say about the use of Margot Robbie in fancied finance crisis comedy “The Big Short.” Elsewhere, we predict this year’s Academy Award nominations (happening tomorrow!), we mourn the death of the great David Bowie, there’s a digression on the films of 1988, and a listener question prompts an upheaval of The Pootsition.
Opening Segment: Discussing the film career of musician, actor, and all-around legend David Bowie, who sadly passed away this week
[1:40 – 9:30]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Star Wars: The Force Awakens 27:40 – 37:24
- Bridge of Spies 37:25 – 45:36
- Carol 45:37 – 51:53
- The Revenant 51:54 – 1:04:14
- Room 1:08:10 – 1:16:41
- The Big Short 1:16:42 – 1:24:12
- Spotlight 1:24:13 – 1:31:46
Closing Segment: Previewing this week’s Academy Award nominations!
[1:31:47 – 1:46:45]
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Outro Music: David Bowie, “Five Years”
Episode 161: The Chinese Intervention [The Martian; Macbeth; The Intern]
It’s Episode 161 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 big congratulations to Pete, as this week he proposed to his other half Jane, prompting the women of the West Midlands to cross him out in their little black books, and the podcast to indulge in a Taylor Swift-inspired celebration. The week’s reviews include “The Intern,” Nancy Meyers’ latest frothy window into the life of a working woman, and “McFarland,” the latest of many sports movies in the lengthy filmography of Kevin Costner. Cal dares to take on William Shakespeare’s story structure in his review of the latest adaptation of “Macbeth,” while many of the plot developments in “The Martian” are up for scrutiny, particularly with regard to the Chinese. Elsewhere, two composers’ birthdays get us discussing their finest works, there’s a sizeable digression about the Best Actress crop of 2003, and Pete can’t help but veer into profanity while ranting about one of the week’s scripts.
The week’s news: The career of the late John Guillermin, plus the week’s birthdays!
[5:40 -13:40]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Macbeth 19:55 – 32:25
- McFarland 32:26 – 43:19
- The Intern 43:20 – 50:54
- The Martian 50:55 – 1:05:40
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Outro Music: Britney Spears, “Oops, I Did it Again”
Episode 160: The Back of Black [Everest; The D Train; Solace]
It’s Episode 160 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 there’s a ton of news, as we discuss the possibility of Damian Lewis as James Bond, the decision by Sean Penn to sue Lee Daniels, and the final submissions for the Foreign Language Oscar, which include a surprising move from the French committee, and a nationally-questionable entry from Ireland. The week’s reviews see us tackle the frosty climate and eclectic cast of Baltasar Kormakur’s “Everest,” Cal caught Anthony Hopkins’ clairvoyant antics in “Solace,” while an unforeseen plot device in Jack Black comedy “The D Train” saw us glimpse far more of him than we’d like. Elsewhere, Ryan Adams’ cover of Taylor Swift’s album has Pete enthused, and the week’s array of hunks pleases Cal greatly.
The week’s news:
- Sixty years without James Dean
- Damian Lewis rumoured to be the next James Bond
- Sean Penn sues Lee Daniels for $10m
- Foreign Language Oscar deadline ends
[4:45 – 20:40]
Opening Segment: This month’s Red Light District, featuring discussion of “Daisy Kenyon,” “It Follows,” “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” “Singles,” “So I Married An Axe Murderer,” and “There’s Always Tomorrow”!
[20:45 – 30:10]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The D Train 34:35 – 47:20
- Solace 47:21 – 54:04
- Everest 54:05 – 1:07:30
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Outro Music: The Waterboys, “The Whole of the Moon”
Episode 156: The King James Clobber [Trainwreck; The Gift; Beyond the Reach]
It’s Episode 156 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’re back this week with laments of last week’s disastrous attempted episode, and some devastating news from the film world, as we say goodbye to a much beloved cinematic canine. We chat about Aaron Sorkin’s latest project and Edward Norton’s controversial comments about the Academy Awards, plus this month’s Red Light District brings rapturous word about a French model-turned-actress and some rare positivity concerning Neil Diamond. The week’s reviews include Judd Apatow-helmed “Trainwreck,” desert-set thriller “Beyond the Reach,” Nanni Moretti’s meditiative drama “Mia Madre,” and Joel Edgerton’s directorial debut, “The Gift,” plus Jeremy Irvine’s physique wins points from Cal, Tilda Swinton’s stylist wins points from Pete, and LeBron James’ appearance in one of the week’s films wins (off-the-court) points all round.
The week’s news
Opening Segment: This month’s Red Light District, featuring discussion of “Blind Date,” “Death of a Salesman,” “Empire of Passion,” “The Jazz Singer,” “Love in the Afternoon,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “That Is the Dawn,” and “Walk on the Wild Side”!
[10:46 – 27:10]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The Gift 38:13 – 50:49
- Beyond the Reach 50:50 – 1:00:12
- Mia Madre 1:00:13 – 1:06:00
- Trainwreck 1:06:01 – 1:18:03
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Outro Music: Lana Del Rey, “Ride”
Episode 155: Rachel, Rachel [Inside Out; Mission Impossible 5; Southpaw]
It’s Episode 155 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 spent the past two weeks topping up the tan, but now we’re back with an episode packed full of criticism, as we turn our attention to the most anticipated film of the year, Pixar’s “Inside Out”. We also assess whether Tom Cruise has still got it, in the latest instalment in the Mission Impossible franchise, “Rogue Nation,” while Cal reviews heavy-going boxing fable “Southpaw,” and Reese Witherspoon and Sofia Vergara in ramshackle comedy “Hot Pursuit.” Meanwhile, we turn our attention to the start of the awards season by digging into the Venice and Toronto Film Festival line-ups, touching upon (among other things) Charlie Kaufman’s return to directing and Tom Hooper’s latest piece of Oscar bait. Plus there’s news of Mads Mikkelsen’s unlikely collaboration with a pop star, Alicia Vikander’s prolific year in film continues, and Xavier Dolan’s foray into the world of voice-over acting comes as somewhat of a surprise.
The week’s news
Opening Segment: Discussing the line-up for this year’s Venice Film Festival, featuring anticipation for films from Charlie Kaufman, Atom Egoyan, and Pablo Trapero, plus we discuss some of the awards hopefuls playing at this year’s film festival in Toronto!
[3:27 – 26:05]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Southpaw 35:50 – 42:11
- Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation 42:12 – 53:42
- Hot Pursuit 53:43 – 1:00:47
- Inside Out 1:00:48 – 1:15:36
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Outro Music: Odyssey, “Inside Out”
Episode 153: The Dash for Viv [Song of the Sea; Dear White People; Housebound]
(Right click… save as)
It’s Episode 153 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 going full-blown indie, with reviews of Irish animated adventure “Song of the Sea,” and New Zealand-set horror comedy “Housebound,” while the racial politics of college-set satire “Dear White People” leave us with conflicted thoughts. We get off to an overwhelmingly positive start, as July’s instalment of the Red Light District features a Colombian festival hit and a Hammer Horror classic, and leads to digressions about the Best Actress Oscar race of 1963 and the richness of 2013’s world cinema. Elsewhere, there’s a competition which could see you win DVDs of a Bresson classic and a recently restored Ealing Studios pic, plus Pete brings up an interesting anecdote involving Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh.
The week’s news:
- The death of Omar Sharif
- The week’s birthdays
[4:10 – 12:04]
Red Light District: Our regular feature in which we discuss non-new releases we’ve seen from the past month, featuring discussion of “The Curse of Frankenstein,” “Heartbreaker,” “Hue and Cry,” “A Man Escaped,” “Manos Sucias,” “A Most Wanted Man,” and “Out of the Clouds”!
[12:05 – 30:20]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Dear White People 32:50 – 46:09
- Housebound 46:10 – 51:59
- Song of the Sea 52:00 – 1:01:23
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Outro Music: The Smiths, “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now”
Episode 152: Naked on the Freeway [Terminator: Genisys; Magic Mike XXL; Comet]
Episode 152: Naked on the Freeway
It’s Episode 152 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 two high-profile sequels, as the James Cameron-endorsed “Terminator: Genisys” lit up cinema screens this past week, while Cal was alone for “Magic Mike XXL,” the follow-up to the 2012 stripper hit we famously (if rather predictably) disagreed on. Parallel dimensions are brought out in the Justin Long-Emmy Rossum romance “Comet,” which confused Cal and made a rather negative impression on Pete’s screening partner, plus there’s news from the on-going East End Film Festival. Elsewhere, Dustin Hoffman’s been a bit outspoken, we take some time out to celebrate a milestone for Lena Endre, and Jai Courtney’s abs are under the microscope.
The week’s news:
- The death of Diana Douglas
- “Everest” to open the Venice Film Festival
- Dustin Hoffman attacks Hollywood
- Lena Endre turns sixty
- East End Film Festival round-up: “Containment”; “MLE”; “Norfolk”
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Comet 30:30 – 45:41
- Magic Mike XXL 45:42 – 54:03
- Terminator: Genisys 54:04 – 1:05:50
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 151: Duty to Serve [She’s Funny That Way; Minions; The Longest Ride]
It’s Episode 151 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 2015 races on, we’re joined this week by Irini M. to talk about our highlights from the year so far, plus she gives us a recap of her latest successful film viewings in a special edition of the Red Light District. Reviews this week include Roy Andersson’s quirky Golden Lion winner, “A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence,” Mauritanian drama “Timbuktu,” while Cal dishes all on the latest Nicholas Sparks adaptation “The Longest Ride,” paying particular attention to Scott Eastwood. Elsewhere, we sat down for Peter Bogdanovich’s latest screwball emulation “She’s Funny That Way,” and Pete caught the Despicable Me spin-off “Minions,” which it’s fair to say tested his patience. Tune in for an unexpected tirade against Mickey Rooney’s longevity, some love dramas concerning the Stratten family, and the occasional jibe about Greece’s disastrous financial situation.
The week’s news
Red Light District: Irini “pimps” the many films she’s seen lately, featuring discussion of “Ana and the Wolves,” “Gett: The Trial of Vivian Amsalem,” “The Invisible Man,” “Lifeboat,” “Spring,” and much more!
[8:35 – 24:53]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The Longest Ride 33:20 – 43:52
- Minions 44:53 – 49:44
- A Pigeon Sat… 49:45 – 58:15
- Timbuktu 58:16 – 1:02:07
- She’s Funny That Way 1:02:08 – 1:12:49
Halfway through 2015: Discussing our favourite films and performances from the year so far!
[1:12:50 – 1:26:58]
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Outro Music: Black Eyed Peas, “Meet Me Halfway”
Episode 150: The Military Potential [Jurassic World; Mr. Holmes; Accidental Love]
It’s Episode 150 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’re back this week with a packed episode, as we get around to tackling the record-breaking blockbuster “Jurassic World” and the latest collaboration between Bill Condon and Ian McKellen, “Mr. Holmes,” while some interesting news items get us chattering about Kristen Stewart’s sexuality and Ingrid Bergman’s past indiscretions. We pay tribute to the late James Horner by discussing some of our favourite work of his, Cal reviews Celine Sciamma’s latest coming-of-age tale “Girlhood,” and trepidation for the the heavily-delayed and part-disowned “Accidental Love” is tested when we review David O. Russell’s foray into the world of political satire. Meanwhile, Cal has caught up with a British Springtime hit and one of Harvey Weinstein’s Oscar hopes, Pete is distinctly unimpressed with Vincent D’Onofrio’s military mindset, and Laura Linney’s stab at a regional English accent goes down like a lead balloon.
The week’s news:
- James Mangold to direct “Seducing Ingrid Bergman”
- Kevin Spacey receives an honorary Knighthood
- Kristen Stewart is outed?
- The death of James Horner
[4:50 – 18:27]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Jurassic World 33:45 – 45:39
- Accidental Love 45:40 – 58:33
- Girlhood 58:34 – 1:06:23
- Mr. Holmes 1:06:24 – 1:18:50
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Outro Music: Scissor Sisters feat. Ian McKellen, “Invisible Light”
Episode 149: The Garland Giveaway [Spy; Survivor; Black Coal Thin Ice]
It’s Episode 149 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 dealing with a litany of deaths in the film world, as two actors, a screenwriter, and a producer all passed away, plus we dust off the cobwebs for a lengthy Red Light District. The week’s reviews include James McTeigue’s secret service drama “Survivor,” the latest collaboration between Paul Feig and Melissa McCarthy, “Spy,” and Chinese Golden Bear winner “Black Coal Thin Ice” (again). Meanwhile, Helen Mirren’s won yet another award for playing the Queen, there are rumblings of discontent about Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s attempt at a French accent, and Cal’s drunken encounter with a singer is contradicted by his love of Judy Garland.
The week’s news:
- Helen Mirren wins a TONY
- The death of Sir Christopher Lee
- The death of Ron Moody
- The death of Jean Gruault
- The death of Robert Chartoff
- “The Walk” to open the New York Film Festival
[4:23 – 14:40]
Red Light District: This month’s round-up of films seen from the past, featuring discussion of “Cuban Fury,” “Curtain Up,” “The Harvey Girls,” “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen,” “Time After Time,” and “We Need to Talk About Kevin”
[14:41 – 26:42]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Survivor 31:08 – 41:51
- Black Coal, Thin Ice 41:52 – 49:08
- Spy 49:09 – 1:02:38
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 148: The No in Pacino [San Andreas; Man Up; Danny Collins]
It’s Episode 148 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 begins with a lengthy opening, featuring discussion of Sofia Coppola’s travails with the studio system, a long overdue film on the Suffragette movement, and a retrospective of Al Pacino in the wake of the release of “Danny Collins.” There are also reviews of disaster action movie “San Andreas,” Iranian vampire flick “A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night,” and romantic comedy “Man Up,” which propelled us into a digression concerning the politics of internet dating. Elsewhere, Cal is forced into a Neil Diamond-style rendition, a certain Antipodean singer narrowly avoids a dreaded Ehle Omission, while Pete disses the vocal talents of a British redhead, much to Cal’s chagrin.
The week’s news: Some Birthday wishes, plus news on Sofia Coppola’s exit from “The Little Mermaid,” the opener of this year’s London Film Festival, and a chat about Al Pacino!
[4:40 – 23:43]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Danny Collins 33:15 – 44:29
- Man Up 44:30 – 55:14
- A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night 55:15 – 1:02:15
- San Andreas 1:02:16 – 1:15:07
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 147:The Birdseye Debacle [Tomorrowland; Poltergeist; Return to Sender]
It’s Episode 147 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 much-delayed episode sees us discuss last week’s big releases at the cinema, including Brad Bird’s adventure tale “Tomorrowland,” and horror remake “Poltergeist.” We also had time to chat about Rosamund Pike’s latest twisted thriller, “Return to Sender,” and Cal reveals all about Samuel L. Jackson’s “Big Game,” which had a rather ludicrous plot setup to live up to. Simon Pegg’s recent outspoken antics may have upset comic-book geeks far and wide, but his thoughts on modern blockbusters instigate a lengthy chat about the future of the industry, while the prizes from the Cannes Film Festival dredge up longstanding observations about the festival’s politics. We may only be in June, but tune in to find out which leading performance Cal has already declared the worst of the year, which fishy figurehead Nick Nolte reminded Pete of, and which lesser-known actress emerged as the star of her film.
The week’s news: Discussing some interesting birthdays in the world of film, Simon Pegg’s assault on modern studio filmmaking, and the prizes from the Cannes Film Festival!
[3:10 – 22:00]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Poltergeist 29:28 – 38:21
- Return to Sender 38:22 – 50:07
- Big Game 50:08 – 56:39
- Tomorrowland 56:40 – 1:08:12
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 145: The Two Toms [Far From the Madding Crowd; Unfriended; Elsa + Fred]
It’s Episode 145 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.
Our latest episode is our shortest yet, as connection problems plagued our recording, and this week’s offering of films was fairly minimal. The big question this week is whether negative preconceptions about Thomas Hardy and Thomas Vinterberg respectively, could be conquered when we sat down for period romance “Far From the Madding Crowd”. Elsewhere, we both caught geriatric romance “Elsa + Fred,” starring Shirley MacLaine and Christopher Plummer, while Cal was in the queue for social media horror “Unfriended,” which gets us talking about the value of gimmicks. Plus: a series of listener questions leads to an inquisition into last week’s Pootsition and the advent of a new segment, there are digressions about the strength of 1964’s Best Actress and 2004’s Best Actor fields, and Pete launches an unexpectedly vicious assault on the work of Julian Jarrold.
Listener Questions [Ibbi]
[3:50 – 13:19]
Red Light District: Revealing the non-new films we’ve been catching up with in the past month, featuring discussion of “Dead Ringer,” “Middle of the Night,” The Pirate,” and “Up”
[13:20 – 19:08]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Elsa + Fred 22:45 – 31:52
- Unfriended 31:53 – 37:40
- Far From the Madding Crowd 37:41 – 47:32
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 144: From Maasai Mara to Agent Provocateur [Avengers: Age of Ultron; The Good Lie; The Falling]
It’s Episode 144 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 there’s some festival fever, with the upcoming Cannes Film Festival generating fervour abroad, and Derby’s incarnation providing some local interest. We split the reviews segment, as Pete was there for Marvel’s huge sequel to “The Avengers” and Carol Morley’s acclaimed period drama “The Falling,” while Cal caught the gothic thriller “Stonhearst Asylum” and his favourite, Reese Witherspoon, in immigrant tale “The Good Lie.” Elsewhere, we talk about a couple of deaths in the film community, which instigates a discussion of cinematography in the early Noughties, there’s been drama on the set of the new Adam Sandler film, and the return of Greta Scacchi leads to a bit of a love-in. Tune in to discover what Xavier Dolan’s huge faux-pas might have been, which Avengers actress does not survive The Pootsition, and why Reese Witherspoon’s underwear was somewhat of an issue for Cal.
- The death of Richard Corliss
- The death of Andrew Lesnie
- Denis Villeneuve to helm Blade Runner sequel
- Further Cannes Film Festival updates
- Upcoming Derby Film Festival
[2:20 – 14:28]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The Avengers: Age of Ultron 22:27 – 30:54
- Stonehearst Asylum 30:55 – 39:58
- The Falling 39:59 – 50:20
- The Good Lie 50:21 – 1:01:34
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 142: Age Of Consent [The DUFF; John Wick; While We’re Young]
It’s Episode 142 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’re back after a two-and-a-half week absence with a packed lineup! As we catch up on the releases from the past fortnight, we’re reviewing five films, including the highly-anticipated new film from Christian Petzold, “Phoenix,” and Keanu Reeves’ foray into the action genre with “John Wick.” Cal reveals all about Noah Baumbach’s latest observation on the middle-classes, “While We’re Young” and Andrew Niccol’s moralistic war drama “Good Kill,” while we finish by talking about teen flick “The DUFF,” which Pete suspected that Cal would like. Elsewhere, in the wake of Thursday’s announcement of the Cannes Film Festival lineup, we assess upcoming films from Gus Van Sant, Paolo Sorrentino, and more, a listener’s rant re-instigates a costuming discussion from our last episode, and a controversial Pootsition flies narrowly close to the age of consent.
Listener question/rant [Ibbi]: Colleen Atwood vs. Sandy Powell
Cannes Film Festival: We dig into the line-up for this year’s festival, featuring films by Todd Haynes, Gus Van Sant, Jacques Audiard, and Hirokazu Koreeda!
[10:52 – 27:52]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Phoenix 34:30 – 46:00
- While We’re Young 46:01 – 52:47
- John Wick 52:48 – 1:03:12
- Good Kill 1:03:13 – 1:09:49
- The DUFF 1:09:50 – 1:23:07
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 141: The Sprinkler of Sadness [Cinderella; Get Hard; Seventh Son]
It’s Episode 141 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 reviews include medieval fantasy adventure “Seventh Son,” the latest incarnation of the fairy tale “Cinderella,” and Argentinian Oscar nominee “Wild Tales,” which is courting controversy in the wake of some bad release timing. Elsewhere, we discuss comedy caper “Get Hard,” which already had preconceptions reeling from Tim Robey’s assault on its homophobic tendencies, plus we chat about the horrendous title of Russell Crowe’s upcoming directorial debut feature, and the bizarre nature of Jeff Bridges’ vocal work. Meanwhile, the memory of Marlene Dietrich lives on the attire of one of this week’s performers, Ed Sheeran’s Australian exploits has Pete hoping he’ll stay there, and why is nobody mentioning the Grimm brothers’ glaring plot hole? Cal’s off to New York next week, so we’re taking a fortnight hiatus, but hopefully we’ll return with news of Pete’s first four-star film of the year.
The week’s news
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Seventh Son 17:41 – 29:26
- Get Hard 29:27 – 40:50
- Wild Tales 40:51 – 48:22
- Cinderella 48:23 – 1:00:32
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 140: The Birthday Quintet [Insurgent; The Gunman; The Voices]
It’s Episode 140 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 discuss Sean Penn’s brawn in the critically-derided “The Gunman” and Ryan Reynolds’ form in the flat-out weird horror comedy “The Voices,” while the return of Shailene Woodley in Robert Schwentke’s “Insurgent” brings excitement (as does the surprise appearance of Naomi Watts), but did the Divergent sequel live up to the promise of its predecessor? Elsewhere, in the wake of the release of “Mommy” we take the opportunity to discuss the career of Xavier Dolan (leading to a Greek peace offering), we discuss the crowded Best Actor field of 2007, one of this week’s performers prompts a resurrection of the “best actress under thirty” debate, and Pete has taken to social media with his frustration at radio airplay.
Preconception Corner
A Conversation on Xavier Dolan: Discussing the filmmaker’s work thus far, in the wake of this week’s release of “Mommy”
[15:25 – 25:12]
Reviews of:
- The Gunman 25:13 – 33:30
- The Voices 33:31 – 42:06
- Insurgent 42:07 – 58:08
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 138: Bemoaning the Mullet [Chappie; White Bird in a Blizzard; Kill the Messenger]
It’s Episode 138 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 our 138th effort, we managed to keep this episode to a reserved sixty four minutes, allowing for discussion of Gregg Araki’s latest take on adolescence, “White Bird in a Blizzard,” Jeremy Renner as a crusading journalist in “Kill the Messenger,” while Cal revealed whether “Chappie” is as bad as the trailer (and most of the reactions to the film) suggests. It’s fair to say that this week’s slate of films leave a lot to be desired, but we try and find the positives as best we can. Elsewhere, the UK’s Eurovision entry fails to get us excited, we discuss the litany of queer roles for the actors of 2005, Neill Blonkamp’s recent fascination with female villains leads to an unexpectedly crude remark about Jodie Foster, and Hugh Jackman’s radical hairstyle rocks the Gauge.
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- White Bird in a Blizzard 12:07 – 24:50
- Chappie 24:51 – 35:18
- Kill the Messenger 35:19 – 46:42
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 137: The Sexual Menace [Focus; Clouds of Sils Maria; The Boy Next Door]
It’s Episode 137 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 last week’s epic trawl through the best of 2014, we move onto this year’s delights, sampling the A-list, B-list, and indie offerings from stateside. We review crime caper “Focus,” starring the overcharged coupling of Will Smith and Margot Robbie (the latter of which dominated most of Pete’s attention), while Jennifer Lopez’s infrequent on-screen activity of late is remedied in trashy thriller “The Boy Next Door.” Cal managed to catch queer Sundance hit “Appropriate Behaviour,” plus, off the back of Kristen Stewart’s Cesar win, we review Olivier Assayas’ Alpine foray into the world of acting, “Clouds of Sils Maria.” Elsewhere, we reveal some exciting plans for the month ahead, there’s some speculation about how J. Lo’s Tinder profile might read, and the trailer for Neill Blonkamp’s latest robot-dominated effort instigates fear, sympathy, and eventually derision.
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The Boy Next Door 14:50 – 23:23
- Clouds of Sils Maria 23:24 – 36:26
- Appropriate Behaviour 36:27 – 45:23
- Focus 45:24 – 1:00:35
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 133: Finger On the Pulse [Inherent Vice; Big Hero 6; Tangerines]
It’s Episode 133 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 with a diverse array of films, from the artistic flourish of animated science fiction yarn “Big Hero 6,” to the war-torn meditation of Foreign Language Oscar nominee “Tangerines,” the review of which led to some rather distasteful fruit-based innuendo. Elsewhere, we were both in the queue for the second collaboration between Paul Thomas Anderson and Joaquin Phoenix, the stoner detective tale “Inherent Vice, while Cal’s long-standing perplexity with religion was tested when he sat down to watch Berlin Film Festival runner-up “Stations of the Cross.” Meanwhile, a big news segment sees us discuss the possibility that the French aren’t all that snobby, an unexpected coming out story leads us into a discussion of the 1972 Oscars, Imogen Poots is bested by the unlikeliest of characters, and Pete likens Judy Greer’s association with Jason Reitman to self-flagellation.
- Harper Lee has penned a sequel to “To Kill a Mockingbird”
- The death of Geraldine McEwan
- Joel Grey comes out as gay
- Announcement of an all-female “Ghostbusters” sequel
- Cesar nominations
[2:37 – 15:43]
Reviews of:
- Tangerines 20:10 – 28:35
- Inherent Vice 28:36 – 40:58
- Stations of the Cross 40:59 – 53:48
- Big Hero 6 53:49 – 1:02:15
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 132: The Virtues of Ed [A Most Violent Year; Citizenfour; Ex Machina]
It’s Episode 132 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 us catch up on last week’s excised news segment by discussing the line-up for the upcoming Berlin Film Festival, as well as the announcement that the Coen brothers will rule over this year’s Cannes jury. Elsewhere, we offer our thoughts on the shifting Oscar races in the wake of the PGA and SAG winners, before revealing our thoughts on the week’s releases which includes controversial nominated documentary “Citizenfour.” Cal was in the queue for Anna Karenina lovers Domnhall Gleeson and Alicia Vikander’s reunion in sci-fi flick “Ex Machina,” and he also had time to see Mark Wahlberg’s blackjack skills in Rupert Wyatt’s “The Gambler,” while we both settled down for the latest work from podcast favourites Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain, in eighties-set drama “A Most Violent Year.” Elsewhere, some random digressions test our film geek credentials, an underappreciated child performance gets us discussing the 2001 Best Actor Oscar roster, and the unexpected cosmetic virtues of a certain whistleblower tickles Cal’s fancy.
- Joel and Ethan Coen to preside over this year’s Cannes Film Festival jury
- The full line-up is revealed for this year’s Berlin Film Festival
- Birdman wins the PGA
- Screen Actors Guild award winners
[1:50 – 23:05]
Reviews of:
- Ex Machina 27:55 – 36:19
- Citizenfour 36:20 – 46:16
- The Gambler 46:17 – 55:17
- A Most Violent Year 55:18 – 1:05:52
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Pootsition
The Garrett Gauge
Episode 131: The Oxford Issue [American Sniper; Whiplash; Wild]
It’s Episode 131 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 was so jam-packed that we had to cut the entire news segment, but don’t worry, we’ll get around to that in our next episode. Instead, we react to last week’s Oscar nominations with theories on everything from the race row, to the surprise Marion Cotillard inclusion, to the unexpected haul for “American Sniper”. We also review Clint Eastwood’s latest delight, as well as other nominated films, including musical drama “Whiplash,” and soul-searching adventure “Wild,” starring Cal’s favourite, Reese Witherspoon. We’re on board with a wine-quaffing Kevin Kline in Parisian jaunt “My Old Lady,” and Pete dishes all on Alicia Vikander’s received pronunciation in wartime romance “Testament of Youth,” which featured too much Oxford reverence for his liking. Elsewhere, Bradley Cooper’s fuller face is up for scrutiny, there’s an unexpected bit of advocacy from Jane Fonda, and Sienna Miller’s dark locks threaten to steal the gold in The Pootsition.
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- American Sniper 10:40 – 22:24
- Whiplash 22:25 – 37:21
- My Old Lady 37:22 – 45:50
- Testament of Youth 45:51 – 54:40
- Wild 54:41 – 1:07:23
Closing Segment: Our reaction to the Oscar nominations, featuring discussion of the snubs, the race row, and the quality of the nominees as a whole!
[1:07:24 – 1:27:12]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Kristina Train, “Dark Black”
Episode 130: Jardiner du Jour [Foxcatcher; Into the Woods; Predicting the Oscar Noms]
Episode 130: Jardiner du Jour
It’s Episode 130 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 only have two films this week, but the episode is jam-packed, thanks to Sunday’s Golden Globe awards and the impending Oscar nominations. We discuss the highlights from the ceremony, and the impact of recent events on all of the major Oscar races, speculating whether Jennifer Aniston can really seal the deal, and if there’s any room for manoeuvre in that seemingly locked Supporting Actress lineup. Elsewhere, negative preconceptions concerning Steve Carell are tested when we review Bennett Miller’s “Foxcatcher,” and Pete’s far-from-impressed verdict on “Into the Woods” sees Cal and Irini scrambling to defend the Disney musical. The return of the Red Light District sees us chat about the days when Leos Carax was joyful, the banality of Adolf Eichmann, and Jean-Luc Godard’s contempt for iPhones, while Pete has his own bridges to burn with social media, and none of us are quite sure how to pronounce Isabel Coixet’s name.
- The death of Anita Ekberg
- The death of Francesco Rosi
- The death of Samuel Goldwyn Jr
- Isabel Coixet’s new film to open Berlin Film Festival
Opening Segment: Our review of Sunday’s Golden Globe Awards, featuring reaction to the winners, the speeches, and of course the fashion!
[7:20 – 27:35]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Foxcatcher
- Into the Woods
[33:50 – 57:10]
Red Light District: Pimping the best films we’ve seen lately, featuring discussion of “Alice in the Cities,” “Beginners,” “Cleo from 5 to 7,” “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart,” “Force Majeure,” “Goodbye to Language,” “Hannah Arendt,” “Haute Cuisine,” “The Night Is Young,” and “Trial”!
[57:20 – 1:10:50]
Closing Segment: Predicting the upcoming Oscar nominations! Will “Foxcatcher” go the way of “The Master”? Will Amy Adams make it six nominations in nine years? Will Cal have to see “The Judge”?
[1:10:55 – 1:27:15]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Beck, “Devil’s Haircut”
Episode 129: Flights of Fancy [Birdman; The Theory of Everything; Enemy]
Episode 129: Flights of Fancy
It’s Episode 129 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 episode, we turn our attention to the awards race, as this week sees the release of two films vying for Oscars, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s meditation on the theatre, “Birdman,” and spirited Stephen Hawking drama “The Theory of Everything”. We also take the opportunity to discuss the Producers Guild Award nominations and the winners from the National Society of Film Critics’ annual round of voting, touching (lightly) upon a victory for Jean-Luc Godard, and speculating about the Oscar chances of Timothy Spall, Marion Cotillard, and Rene Russo among others. Elsewhere, Pete’s improvable opinion of Denis Villeneuve is tested when Jake Gyllenhaal takes on a double role in “Enemy” and last year’s Norwegian Foreign Language Oscar entry “Kon-Tiki” finally made British shores, while some disappointing controversy about the latest Nicholas Cage film, “Dying of the Light,” threatens to overshadow the review. Meanwhile, there’s news of upheaval for the Factor and Range, Cal’s latest reading material provides a window into the Best Picture Oscar race of 1967 and Rex Harrison’s bad behaviour, and Felicity Jones’ sixties attire may finally have won over her childhood cohort.
- Mark Schultz turns his back on “Foxcatcher”
- Producers Guild Award nominations are announced
- National Society of Film Critics winners
[2:40 – 14:45]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- The Theory of Everything
- Kon-Tiki
- Dying of the Light
- Enemy
[26:00 – 1:03:10]
Closing Segment: Our take on Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s “Birdman,” discussing the Best Picture race, and our favourite films about the theatre!
[1:03:15 – 1:22:45]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: The National, “All the Wine”
Episode 128: ‘Tis the Season to be Juli [Still Alice; Big Eyes; Exodus; Unbroken]
Episode 128: ‘Tis the Season to be Juli
It’s Episode 128 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.
It’s our last episode of 2014 so we take the opportunity to celebrate the best films we’ve reviewed on the podcast this year, and our favourite performances, which includes a surprising Supporting Actress win from Pete. This week’s reviews include the Biblical epic “Exodus: Gods and Kings” and Angelina Jolie’s audacious survival tale “Unbroken,” while Pete caught Jimi Hendrix biopic “Jimi: All Is By My Side.” We discuss fradulent artist drama “Big Eyes,” starring Amy Adams, while we assess Julianne Moore’s bid for a long overdue Oscar in heavy-going Alzheimer’s tale “Still Alice.” Elsewhere, the death of the last remaining acting Oscar winner from the 1930s resurrects a common complaint, we scrutinize this year’s Foreign Language Oscar race some more, there’s a Razzie-level performance in one of this week’s films, and the podcast is interrupted by the children and dogs in Cal’s packed household.
- The death of Luise Rainer
- Tim Burton and Helena Bonham Carter split up
- Foreign Language Oscar Shortlist is revealed
[2:35 – 16:40]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Big Eyes
- Exodus: Gods and Kings
- Unbroken
- Jimi: All Is By My Side
- Still Alice
[24:25 – 1:11:40]
Closing Segment: Discussing our favourite films and performances reviewed on the podcast in 2014!
[1:11:45 – 1:17:55]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Baha Men, “Who Let the Dogs Out?”
Episode 127: Size Matters [Winter Sleep; The Hobbit 3; Get Santa]
Episode 127: Size Matters
It’s Episode 127 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.
It’s the week of the epics, as Peter Jackson finally ends his Middle Earth fascination (we hope, anyway) with the last instalment of The Hobbit, and Nuri Bilge Ceylan has made his longest film yet, with the solemn Palme d’Or winning “Winter Sleep.” We had an awful lot to say about Ceylan’s 196-minute effort, which leads to a discussion of films about actors and an all-out celebration of Ava Gardner, while we managed to get around to festive favourite “Get Santa” and Cal caught the middle-class melodrama “The Face Of Love.” Elsewhere, we discuss the impact of the Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations, whether Jennifer Aniston can get that Oscar nod, and the early announcements for the Berlin Film Festival brings encouraging news of new films by Terrence Malick, Andrew Haigh, and Kenneth Branagh. We reveal our tentative plans for the festive period, a Turkish delight creates a dilemma for Pete in the Olsen Factor, and a dodgy looking sci-fi effort looks to bring awards favourite Eddie Redmayne crashing back to Earth.
- Berlin Film Festival reveals it will premiere Terrence Malick’s “Knight Of Cups”
- Screen Actors Guild Award nominations
- Golden Globe nominations
[4:10 – 23:35]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Get Santa
- The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
- The Face Of Love
[29:50 – 1:00:25]
Closing Segment: Our take on Nuri Bilge Ceylan’s Palme d’Or winning “Winter Sleep,” and discussing films about actors!
[1:00:30 – 1:21:20]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Nancy Sinatra, “These Boots Are Made For Walkin'”
Episode 125: Empty and Chortleless [Paddington; Mockingjay Part I; The Homesman]
Episode 125: Empty and Chortleless
It’s Episode 125 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 catching up for lost time with two weeks’ worth of films, and a ton of news, from the sad demise of Mike Nichols to the influx of awards action, featuring discussion of Marion Cotillard’s Oscar prospects and the underachievement of Edward Norton, while Pete is particularly aghast at the NBR’s fondness for “The Lego Movie.” Reviews this week include our take on podcast favourite Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of James Brown in “Get On Up,” the less-than-popular Hilary Swank in Tommy Lee Jones’ maybe-Western “The Homesman,” and the daunting prospect of Michael Bond’s “Paddington” being adapted for the big screen. Elsewhere, Pete found time to see Antipodean vampire comedy “What We Do In the Shadows,” while Cal was the only one queuing up to see Jennifer Lawrence in the latest instalment of The Hunger Games, “Mockingjay Part I.” Meanwhile, there’s a digression about 2006’s Best Actress Oscar lineup, one of Faye Dunaway’s many camp film roles is celebrated, Kevin Spacey’s private life gets an airing, and Pete is seriously torn between allegiance and detest in anticipation for Jason Reitman’s upcoming film, which stars the one and only Judy Greer.
- The death of Mike Nichols
- Cahiers du Cinema announce their top ten
- New York Film Critics Circle awards
- National Board of Review
[2:20 – 20:10]
Preconception Corner
Reviews of:
- Get On Up
- The Homesman
- The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part I
- What We Do in the Shadows
[27:00 – 54:10]
Closing Segment: Our take on quirky children’s tale “Paddington” and discussing our favourite cinematic female villains!
[54:15 – 1:05:55]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Lana Del Rey, “Blue Jeans”
Episode 124: The Gay in Engaging [The Imitation Game; The Drop; Life Itself]
Episode 124: The Gay in Engaging
It’s Episode 124 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 the beer is flowing, and so is the innuendo, as Pete finally has the keys to his brand new house. This forces Cal into a distillation of jukebox classics, before we review the new releases, which include Michael Roskam’s “The Drop” and Roger Ebert documentary “Life Itself,” which prompts Pete to recite some of Roger Ebert’s more baffling reviews. In the wake of Alan Turing biopic “The Imitation Game” we get chatting about our favourite gay characters and icons of cinema, featuring discussion of Oscar Wilde and Billie Holiday, while Cal discloses some of the recent films he’s caught up with from earlier in the year, including a horror film about an urban archaeologist. A hefty news segment sees us discuss Angelina Jolie’s adoption of Derbyshire dialect, plus Eddie Redmayne’s fuckability sees a boost, and Fashion Police finally found a replacement for Joan Rivers. Elsewhere, the cast of Downton Abbey are out in force this week, Cal is feeling guilty for leaving Matthias Schoenaerts in the lurch, we float the possibility of a Tallulah Bankhead biopic starring Cate Blanchett, and Pete recounts a regretful dancefloor moment set to the music of Vanilla Ice.
- Chris Hemsworth voted People Magazine’s “Sexiest Man Alive”
- Angelina Jolie’s Derby Moment
- Kathy Griffin announced as Joan Rivers’ replacement on Fashion Police
- The trailer for Kenneth Branagh’s “Cinderella” is out
[4:15 – 23:10]
Reviews of:
- The Drop
- Life Itself
[30:25 – 52:15]
Closing Segment: Our take on Oscar-tipped Alan Turing biopic “The Imitation Game,” and discussing LGBT heroes of the film world!
[52:20 – 1:13:00]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: This Mortal Coil, “Holocaust”
Episode 123: The Folly of Ambition [Interstellar; Leviathan; Human Capital]
Episode 123: The Folly of Ambition
It’s Episode 123 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 joined once again by Irini M., who brings us news from her home country’s Thessaloniki Film Festival in a notably more concise fashion than September’s Venice round-up. She also joins in our discussion of some interesting recent events, which includes some rare exciting news involving David O. Russell, and the bizarre spectrum of films vying for this year’s Animated Feature Oscar. We discuss two Foreign Language Oscar contenders, as Paolo Virzi’s “Human Capital” enlivens the middle-class misery of bourgeois Italy and Andrey Zvyagintsev’s “Leviathan” documents the coastal conflicts of rural Russia, before giving ambition a dressing down, as Christopher Nolan’s epic “Interstellar” comes to town. We reveal whether the cinematic influences used in the film are a blessing or curse, and whether Nolan’s scope and logic holds up under scrutiny. Elsewhere, we recount a horror show from Venice which saw Pete become a gay advocate, a mistaken text briefly convinced Cal that his niece was a child genius, while Keira Knightley’s recent quest to boost female self-image has us rather baffled.
- Darren Aronofsky to head the jury at next year’s Berlin Film Festival
- David O. Russell’s long-delayed “Nailed” re-titled as “Love in Politics” and scheduled for release in the UK
- Animated Feature Oscar qualifying list is announced
- European Film Award nominations are announced
[3:05 – 20:55]
[21:00 – 34:45]
Reviews of:
- Leviathan
- Human Capital
[43:25 – 1:01:30]
Closing Segment: Our take on Christopher Nolan’s space-set epic “Interstellar,” and discussing cine-literate films, with comment on “Allegro,” “Kill Bill,” and “Once Upon a Time in the West”!
[1:01:35 – 1:28:40]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Adam and the Ants, “Prince Charming”
Episode 122: The Lake Malfunction [Mr. Turner; Nightcrawler; The Films of 1987]
Episode 122: The Lake Malfunction
It’s Episode 122 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 going retro again, as the Red Light District is back for its monthly outing, bringing news of an amibitious take on spirituality and a French poison-pen mystery, while a BAFTA-winning Maggie Smith performance and a glorious turn by Anne Bancroft turn the discussion to the year of 1987, in which we discuss the qualities of Holly Hunter, Olympia Dukakis, Jack Nicholson, and more! Current releases reviewed include the much-delayed “Charlie Countryman,” Polish surgery procedural “Bogowie,” and Dan Gilroy’s “Nightcrawler,” which had Seydoux repercussions for Jake Gyllenhaal. After that, attention is drawn to the painterly attributes of Mike Leigh’s “Mr. Turner,” but did either of us respond to the grunts and thrusts of Cannes Best Actor winner Timothy Spall? We engage in a brief hum-a-long of the film’s score, before taking the opportunity to discuss our favourite flicks based on the lives of artists, which includes talk of a Ken Russell biopic, a Tarkovsky epic, and a rare moment of non-objectification afforded to Emmanuelle Beart. There’s time to bitch about the running times of recent films in the wake of next week’s near three-hour “Interstellar,” while there are some rare kind words about Shia LaBoeuf, and an Adidas tracksuit unexpectedly provides a retrospective Huston Problem. Elsewhere, one of this week’s performers is unfavourably compared to Danny DeVito, the appeal of Mads Mikkelsen’s blondeness is swiftly dismissed by Cal, and the very thought of Lake Bell causes Pete to malfunction.
- British Independent Film Award nominations are announced
[2:25 – 9:20]
[9:25 – 25:05]
Reviews of:
- Charlie Countryman
- Nightcrawler
- Bogowie (Gods)
[29:55 – 53:00]
Closing Segment: Our take on Mike Leigh’s biographical drama “Mr. Turner,” and discussing films based on the lives of artists!
[53:05 – 1:10:45]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Kate Bush, “The Painter’s Link”
Episode 121: The Porky Cheese Story [Fury; Serena; The Babadook]
Episode 121: The Porky Cheese Story
(Right click… save as)
It’s Episode 121 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 might have been delayed this week, but we’re back with four new releases, including the highly-anticipated horror film “The Babadook,” the trailer of which has been amusing us for weeks. Cal was the only one in the queue for Susanne Bier’s delayed period drama “Serena,” starring everyone’s favourite ballroom duo, while we both caught Bille August’s slow-burning mystery “Night Train to Lisbon,” although Cal saw it over a year ago! We end by discussing World War II drama “Fury,” which leads us onto calamitous film scores and the wonder of Terrence Malick. Elsewhere, we chat about the Best Picture races of 1998 and 1945, the Hibs vs. Celtic debate from our “Under the Skin” review is finally settled, and a listener question forces us to address the temperament of a certain female tennis player. We discuss why it doesn’t pay to be a fan of Ed Sheeran, Melanie Laurent is plagued with Huston problems, Pete manages to diss Carey Mulligan twice, and a sixty year-old sexpot has the potential to upset Elizabeth Olsen next week.
The Week’s News:
- Stephen Daldry’s “Trash” wins Best Film at the Rome Film Festival
- Harvey Weinstein calls for a change to production credits
- Gotham Film Award nominations are announced
[3:20 – 16:50]
Listener question: Favourite Serena Williams match? [Ibbi]
[16:55 – 22:50]
Preconception Corner
- The Babadook
- Night Train to Lisbon
- Serena
- Fury
[30:25 – 1:09:35]
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Olsen Factor
The Isaac Range
Episode 120: L’entrecôte de Belgique [The Maze Runner; The Judge; Annabelle]
Episode 120: L’entrecôte de Belgique
(Right click… save as)
It’s Episode 120 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 Pete is recovering from the gruelling tasks of running a half-marathon and tackling the Cougars of Sutton, while Cal is exhausted from a week’s worth of screenings at the London Film Festival. We’re braving hit horror prequel “Annabelle,” despite Pete being unable to remember its predecessor, “The Conjuring,” and we both saw futuristic flick “The Maze Runner,” which we only really watched for the presence of the delectable Kaya Scoledario. Pete saw Robert Duvall get his grump on in David Dobkin’s courtroom thriller “The Judge,” while Cal caught the James Franco-penned “Palo Alto,” the plot of which forced Pete into demonstrating his eye-rolls through sound bites. Audio cues continue to invade the episode from then on, so listen as we discuss a history of unappealing subplots involving Vera Farmiga, an 80s cult classic starring David Bowie, and the promise of Val Kilmer’s son Jack. Elsewhere, a certain horticultural film sees much of Matthias Schoenaerts on display, Cal braves the wrath of Irini when he reviews Xavier Dolan’s latest, and anticipation for next week’s “The Babadook” leads to hilarity.
The Week’s News:
- The death of Misty Upham
- The death of Kit Carson
- Neil Patrick Harris to host the Oscars
- Leviathan wins Best Film at the London Film Festival
[4:45 – 12:25]
Opening Segment: Coverage from the London Film Festival, featuring discussion of “A Little Chaos,” “Mommy,” and “Something Must Break”
[12:30 – 22:50]
Preconception Corner
- Annabelle
- The Judge
- Palo Alto
- The Maze Runner
[32:55 – 1:18:00]
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Olsen Factor
The Isaac Range
Episode 118: The Dangers of Swiping Right [Gone Girl; Life After Beth; Draft Day]
Episode 118: The Dangers of Swiping Right
(Right click… save as)
It’s Episode 118 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.
To donate to Pete’s half-marathon run, on behalf of the Midlands Arts Centre, follow this link
This week’s episode begins with an apology from Cal for last week’s drunken debacle, plus we plug Pete’s athletic abilities, and Cal tips a couple of worthwhile films playing at this year’s London Film Festival. In the wake of this week’s “Gone Girl” we dig into David Fincher’s chilly and distinguished career, before reviewing his new mystery thriller, but who was the unexpected stand-out of the cast? We tackle zombie comedy “Life After Beth,” before speculating on why The Times critic Wendy Ide may not have taken too kindly to the whole affair, while Pete left Cal to watch NFL procedural “Draft Day” alone, despite him knowing almost nothing (thank you, Mrs. Henderson) about the inner workings of the sport. Elsewhere, we conclude that Blake Lively’s impending arrival spells good news for the entire film community, Ellen Burstyn’s savvy use of social networking is too much for one of us to comprehend, and Ed Sheeran’s lyrical over-sensitivity towards hookups doesn’t go down too well. The bright side? There’s no sing-a-long.
The Week’s News:
- David Lynch’s “Twin Peaks” to return for a third season in 2016!
- Steve Martin to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the AFI
- Blake Lively is pregnant
- Films to look out for ahead of this week’s London Film Festival
[6:25 – 16:15]
Opening Segment: In anticipation of “Gone Girl”: A retrospective of David Fincher’s career to date, featuring discussion of all of his films!
[16:20 – 32:45]
Preconception Corner
- Gone Girl
- Draft Day
- Life After Beth
[38:30 – 1:13:15]
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Olsen Factor
The Isaac Range
Episode 117: The Ballad of Pitt & Brit [Maps to the Stars; I Origins; Ida]
Episode 117: The Ballad of Pitt & Brit
It’s Episode 117 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 distinctly non-sober affair, as birthday drinks crippled Cal’s ability to function (he wants you to know that he is fully aware that Joanne Woodward is American), but we managed to get through this week’s busy line-up of films in under ninety minutes. Pete caught Denzel Washington thriller “The Equalizer” and Mike Cahill’s treatise on faith vs. science, “I Origins,” while Cal was in the queue for horror flick “Honeymoon” and had time to rewatch Pawel Pawlikowski’s “Ida.” After that, both of us weigh in on David Cronenberg’s Hollywood satire “Maps to the Stars,” featuring Cannes Best Actress winner Julianne Moore, which leads us into a discussion of women from the past who have received that honour. Elsewhere, banter about pop music shifts from Taylor Swift onto Cheryl Cole, we ponder how long George Clooney’s marriage will last, a Christie Clanger from last week is addressed, and preconceptions for David Fincher’s “Gone Girl” (reviewed next week) get laid bare.
- George Clooney marries in Venice
- Foreign Language Oscar submissions: Russia submit “Leviathan”; Argentina submit “Wild Tales”
- Al Pacino receives a BAFTA Fellowship
[5:10 – 19:15]
- Ida
- The Equalizer
- Honeymoon
- I Origins
[25:00 – 1:00:05]
Closing Segment: Our take on David Cronenberg’s “Maps to the Stars,” and discussing the history of Best Actress winners at the Cannes Film Festival!
[1:00:10 – 1:21:15]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Cheryl Cole, “Crazy Stupid Love”
Episode 116: The Decoy Tots [The Giver; Magic in the Moonlight; A Walk Among the Tombstones]
Episode 116: The Decoy Tots
(Right click… save as)
It’s Episode 116 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 last week’s super-long episode, we lament Cal’s laissez faire approach to editing, but this edition managed to sail under the ninety-minute mark fairly smoothly. The Red Light District is back, as we discuss films starring Nina Hoss and Richard Burton, a dishonest Dogme flick, plus Cal’s return to awards completion gets us analysing two Best Actress Oscar races, one of which features one of the biggest snubs of all time. New releases include baseball underdog drama “Million Dollar Arm,” of which the MVP was plain for both of us to see, and Woody Allen’s “Magic in the Moonlight,” which Pete unsurprisingly snubbed. There’s also Liam Neeson thriller “A Walk Among the Tombstones,” and Philip Noyce’s “The Giver,” which Pete managed to smear in innuendo and spend forever on divulging the plot of. Taylor Swift’s presence in the film forces both of us to admit some admiration for her lyrical hand, while her likeness to a famously jilted tennis player instigates discussion of a disastrous celebrity relationship. Elsewhere, there’s a postponed Joe Wright rant from last week, Pete’s parents’ holiday snaps struggle to emulate Michael Ballhaus, and the natural charm of one of this week’s actresses leads to a new qualification in the Olsen Factor.
The Week’s News
- Foreign Language submissions from France, Belgium, Canada, and Hong Kong
[2:25 – 8:20]
Opening Segment: This month’s Red Light District, featuring discussion of “Barbara,” “Elena,” “Mifune’s Last Song,” “Mourning Becomes Electra,” “Passion Fish,” “The Spy Who Came In From the Cold” and “Win/Win”
[8:25 – 23:15]
Preconception Corner
- Million Dollar Arm
- A Walk Among the Tombstones
- Magic in the Moonlight
- The Giver
[29:15 – 1:12:15]
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Olsen Factor
The Isaac Range
Episode 115: The Torvill and Dean Years [A Most Wanted Man; Pride; The Boxtrolls]
Episode 115: The Torvill & Dean Years
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It’s Episode 115 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 tops the 100-minute mark, as we take (a lot of) time out to discuss the many memorable films from 1999, revealing our top tens, and weighing in on some grandiose performances from the year. We also tackle some new releases, with Pete dishing all on the bonkers animation “The Boxtrolls” and Cal revealing how proud the LGBT community should be of “Pride”. We review Norwegian festival circuit favourite “Blind” and Anton Corbijn’s Hamburg-set thriller “A Most Wanted Man,” which features the final leading performance from Philip Seymour Hoffman. Tune in to find out what Pete has spent an excessive amount of money on this week, why Dominic West’s dancing is under scrutiny, and the sheer volume of affection extended to Rachel McAdams. Elsewhere, we discuss the unstoppable Jack O’Connell, Pete’s interruptions during Cal’s review of “Pride” leads to strikes being called, while this week’s Christie Clanger concerns the presence (or lackthereof) of Julie Delpy.
- “The Imitation Game” wins the People’s Choice award at the Toronto Film Festival
- George Clooney to receive the Cecil B. DeMille award at the Golden Globes
[3:40 – 10:45]
- A Most Wanted Man
- Pride
- Blind
- The Boxtrolls
[22:05 – 1:05:00]
Closing Segment: Our take on the cinema of 1999, featuring discussion of films such as “The Road Home,” “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” and “Rosetta,” and performances by Russell Crowe, Reese Witherspoon, and Cameron Diaz!
[1:05:05 – 1:45:15]
The Isaac Range
Outro Music: Ravel, “Bolero”
Episode 112: Plenty of Fish [Lucy; Two Days, One Night]
Episode 112: Plenty of Fish
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It’s Episode 112 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 returning late from a rather heavy Bank Holiday weekend, with reviews of two films featuring mega Hollywood actresses. Luc Besson’s “Lucy” is the latest film in a prolific spell for the delectable Scarlett Johansson, while Marion Cotillard returns to her world cinema roots in the Dardennes brothers’ “Two Days, One Night,” which sees us getting personal about our own ethics. Elsewhere, we discuss the career of Richard Attenborough, some encouraging news for Scandinavian cinema, and Pete reveals his decision-making behind the decoration for his new house, a quarter of which features work by perennial podcast favourite Wong Kar-Wai. The week’s digressions include a brief lament over Amy Adams’ patchy filmography, Faye Dunaway’s destructive diva period, and Andie MacDowell’s bizarre behaviour on Twitter. We talk about the popular Ice Bucket Challenge (which we’re both snubbing), the Naomi Christie accent controversy rumbles on, and the Joe Wright rant of the week features some far from encouraging words for the men of Belgium.
- The death of Richard Attenborough
- Susanne Bier’s “Serena” to hit UK cinemas in October
- Pete’s decoration of film stills
[1:35 – 23:40]
Red Light District: This month’s pimping session, featuring discussion of “Coherence,” “Philomena,” “Symptoms,” “Thirteen At Dinner,” and “What’s Up Doc?”
[24:50 – 34:10]
- Lucy
- Two Days, One Night
[39:30 – 1:12:35]
Shag, Marry or Kill?
The Olsen Factor
The Isaac Range
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 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 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”
