Welcome to Season 2 of The Film Library, a podcast from Kanopy where we explore great films, hidden gems, and must-watch classics—all available to stream free with your library card. In this kickoff episode, new hosts Kristy Puchko (Entertainment Editor at Mashable) and Jeff Rauseo (movie lover, collector, and social media creator) introduce themselves the only way true cinephiles can: by sharing five films that define their taste. From genre-bending horror and high-stakes heists to iconic rom-coms and daring cult hits, this episode is a tour through some of the most intriguing titles you can stream right now on Kanopy.
Get to know Kristy and Jeff through their thoughtful, funny, and occasionally chaotic back-and-forth as they break down what makes these films unforgettable. Whether you’re in the mood for a Charlie Chaplin deep cut, an Anne Hathaway kaiju dramedy, or a hauntingly real serial killer thriller, this list covers the cinematic spectrum—with plenty of recommendations for what to watch next. If you’ve ever wanted a podcast that feels like your smartest movie group chat, you’re in the right place.
Follow Kristy on Instagram @thekristypuchko and on Letterboxd @kristypuchko.
You can find Jeff on Instagram, TikTok, and Letterboxd @jeffrauseo.
Don’t forget to follow Kanopy on Letterboxd to see the full episode list—and stream every film we mention for free at kanopy.com with your library or university card.
🎞️ Episode Highlights
00:33 — Jeff and Kristy introduce themselves
01:00 — Jeff’s first pick: The Great Dictator and why it’s more radical than you remember
03:55 — Kristy picks Parasite and celebrates Bong Joon-ho’s genre-defying brilliance
06:00 — Jeff examines Possessor, Brandon Cronenberg, and loving horror that gets weird
07:00 — Kristy’s palate cleanser: Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant in Charade
10:55 — Jeff’s wildcard comedy pick: Hot Rod and the joys of chaotic energy
11:00 — Kristy shares Swan Song, a bittersweet road movie with Udo Kier and Jennifer Coolidge
12:45 — Zodiac: Jeff’s Fincher obsession and Kristy’s absolute fear
15:37 — Kristy picks Colossal, Anne Hathaway as a kaiju conduit and the power of subtle storytelling
18:17 — Jeff goes vintage cult with The Wicker Man (the original!)
20:21 — Kristy closes with American Animals, a genre-blending true crime thriller you won’t forget
