Shows
Last night I watched...S2, Ep.19 - Ad Astra & InterstellarIn this week’s episode of Last Night I Watched..., Ashley tackles two modern sci-fi heavyweights: Interstellar and Ad Astra. First up is Christopher Nolan’s 2014 space odyssey Interstellar, a visually stunning tale of black holes, time dilation, and a father’s love, starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway. Then it’s Ad Astra (2019), James Gray’s meditative journey through the cosmos, where Brad Pitt plays a stoic astronaut confronting both distant threats and inner demons. Expect thoughts on cinematic spectacle, emotional gravity, and whether melancholy monologues make for good space travel.
2025-04-1515 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.18 - Wind River (2017), Hold The Dark (2018), The Devil All The Time (2020)Bleak landscapes, brutal violence, and moral decay—this week, we dive into three haunting films that explore humanity at its darkest. Wind River delivers a chilling crime thriller in the snowy wilderness, Hold the Dark unravels an eerie mystery drenched in ambiguity, and The Devil All the Time crafts a gothic tale of faith, corruption, and generational trauma. Join us as we dissect the themes, performances, and the unsettling atmospheres that make these films unforgettable.
2025-04-0809 minLast night I watched...S2. Ep.17 - Heat (1995), Collateral (2004), The Killer (2023)Bullets, neon, and brooding hitmen—this week, we dive into three masterfully crafted thrillers: Collateral, Heat, and The Killer. From Michael Mann’s signature style to David Fincher’s icy precision, we break down the tension, performances, and what makes these films essential watches. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of crime, morality, and some of the slickest cinematography in the game!
2025-04-0115 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.16 - Paradise (2025 TV series)In this episode of Last Night I Watched…, Ashley delves into the 2025 political thriller series Paradise, created by Dan Fogelman and starring Sterling K. Brown, Julianne Nicholson, and James Marsden. The series follows Secret Service agent Xavier Collins (Brown) as he investigates the mysterious assassination of President Cal Bradford (Marsden) within the confines of their high-tech refuge. Ashley explores the show's intricate blend of political intrigue, science fiction elements, and deep character studies. He discusses the performances that bring this dystopian society to life, the complex narrative twists, and the ethical dilemmas faced by th...
2025-03-2510 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.15 - Rebel RidgeIn this episode of Last Night I Watched…, Ashley breaks down the high-octane 2024 thriller Rebel Ridge. Starring John Boyega, this action-packed film delivers intense sequences, sharp social commentary, and a gripping revenge story set against the backdrop of systemic corruption.Ashley dives into the film’s pulse-pounding action, standout performances, and the themes that make Rebel Ridge more than just a thrill ride. Does it live up to the hype? And how does it stack up against other social thrillers?🎧 Buckle up and tune in for the full breakdown!
2025-03-1808 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.14 - GiftedIn this episode of Last Night I Watched…, Ashley dives into the 2017 drama Gifted, starring Chris Evans, Mckenna Grace, and Octavia Spencer. This heartwarming (and heartbreaking) film follows a single man raising his child prodigy niece while battling family tensions, custody battles, and the weight of doing what’s "best" for a brilliant child.Ashley explores the film’s emotional depth, standout performances, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding gifted education. Plus, a discussion on the power of found family, and—of course—whether this one left him in tears. Spoiler: Probably.
2025-03-1209 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.13 - Band of BrothersIn this episode of Last Night I Watched..., Ashley reviews Band of Brothers, the critically acclaimed 10-part miniseries that follows Easy Company, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, during World War II. From the intense training at Camp Toccoa to the harrowing battles of Normandy, the Battle of the Bulge, and the liberation of concentration camps, Band of Brothers brings the real-life stories of soldiers to life in a gripping and emotional way.
Join Ashley as he breaks down the production notes, discusses the pros and cons of the series, and dives into the unforgettable performances...
2025-01-2812 minLast night I watched...BONUS: Paddington in PeruJoin Ashley on this exciting episode of LAST NIGHT I WATCHED, where we take a deep dive into the heartwarming adventure Paddington in Peru. Tune in as we explore the latest chapter in the beloved bear's journey, from his emotional return to his homeland to the lush Amazon rainforest. Together, we’ll discuss the film’s enchanting visuals, delightful humor, and the deeper exploration of Paddington’s past. We’ll also chat about the strengths and weaknesses of the film, from its endearing characters to its occasional pacing issues.
2025-01-2110 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.12 - Mr McMahonIn this episode of Last Night I Watched..., Ashley reviews Mr. MacMahon, the documentary series on Netflix that delves into the fascinating and controversial life of WWE chairman Vince McMahon. This gripping multi-part series uncovers the rise of McMahon in the world of professional wrestling, his impact on the industry, and the personal and professional challenges that shaped his legacy.
Join Ashley as he explores the series’ deep dive into McMahon’s groundbreaking career, his larger-than-life persona, and the dark side of the wrestling empire he built. From his early days in the industry to the scandals and...
2025-01-2114 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.11: Carry-OnIn this high-flying episode, Ashley delves into Netflix's latest action thriller, Carry-On. He examines Taron Egerton's portrayal of a beleaguered TSA officer, the film's holiday setting, and its attempt to join the ranks of Christmas-themed action classics. Does Carry-On soar to new heights, or does it struggle to get off the ground? Tune in for a spoiler-free analysis of the plot, standout performances, and whether this film deserves a spot on your holiday watchlist.
2025-01-1409 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.10: Squid Game (season 2)In this gripping episode, Ashley dives into the high-stakes world of Squid Game Season 2. From its intense new games to its complex characters and deeper moral questions, Ashley breaks down what works, what falls flat, and what left her on the edge of her seat. Is the sequel a worthy follow-up to the groundbreaking first season, or does it get lost in the shuffle? Tune in for a spoiler-filled discussion of the plot, standout moments, and the critical buzz surrounding Netflix's hit series!
2025-01-0714 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.9: The BeekeeperOn this episode of Last Night I Watched, Ashley dives into The Beekeeper, the latest action-thriller starring Jason Statham. Directed by David Ayer, this film follows a former elite operative turned beekeeper on a mission of vengeance after a tragic scam. Is this a buzz-worthy action romp or a hive of missed potential?
Join the discussion on its explosive action, Statham’s undeniable charm, and the polarizing mix of absurdity and seriousness that critics can’t stop talking about.
2024-12-3110 minLast night I watched...(BONUS HOLIDAY EPISODE) Love Actually & The HolidayIn this festive double-feature episode, Ashley unwraps two beloved holiday classics. From the interwoven tales of love in Love Actually to the cozy charm of The Holiday's house-swapping romance, she explores what makes these films perennial favorites. Are their stories as timeless as they seem, or do they come with holiday baggage?
2024-12-2821 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.8: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless MindJoin Ashley Scrace Wendel as he revisits the dreamy, heart-wrenching world of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Directed by Michel Gondry and written by Charlie Kaufman, this modern classic follows Joel (Jim Carrey) and Clementine (Kate Winslet) as they navigate love, heartbreak, and the erasure of memories.
In this episode, Ashley unpacks the film’s inventive storytelling, stunning visuals, and emotional depth while exploring how it redefines the boundaries of romance on screen. Is it as timeless as its themes of love and regret suggest, or does its complexity hold it back for some viewers? Tune in to find ou
2024-12-2410 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.7: American FictionJoin Ashley as he breaks down American Fiction, a sharp, satirical comedy based on Percival Everett's novel Erasure. Centered on Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright), a frustrated African American writer who creates a sensationalized novel to mock the literary industry, this film offers a bold commentary on race, identity, and the commodification of Black trauma. Ashley explores the film’s layered themes, standout performances, and the way it blends humor with poignant social critique. Is it a perfect satire, or does it stumble in its final act? Tune in to find out!
2024-12-1710 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.6: Outer Range (season 2)Join Ashley as he dives into the surreal and suspenseful second season of Outer Range. With the Abbott family facing new challenges and the mysterious black hole revealing more of its secrets, Ashley breaks down the season’s twists, explores how time travel and family drama collide, and evaluates whether the show’s unique blend of Western grit and sci-fi strangeness hits its stride. From standout performances to unanswered questions, this episode unpacks what makes Season 2 a thrilling — and occasionally baffling — ride.
2024-12-1014 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.5: Fallout (TV series)In this episode of Last Night I Watched..., Ashley Scrace Wendel reviews Fallout (2024), Amazon Prime’s gritty adaptation of the iconic post-apocalyptic video game series. Set in a devastated America filled with mutated creatures, derelict Vaults, and survivors with questionable morals, Fallout brings the beloved game’s retro-futuristic wasteland to vivid life. Join Ashley as he explores how the series captures the game’s dark humor, haunting visuals, and memorable world-building while expanding its characters' emotional depth.
2024-12-0313 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.4: A Walk Among the TombstonesIn this episode of Last Night I Watched..., Ashley Scrace Wendel takes on A Walk Among the Tombstones (2014) and doesn’t hold back. Despite the film’s setup for a gritty, neo-noir thriller starring Liam Neeson as ex-cop Matt Scudder, Ashley finds the execution lacking. Join him as he explores why the plot’s pacing feels sluggish, the character development is thin, and the suspense falls flat in this adaptation of Lawrence Block’s crime novel. Ashley discusses how the film’s tone misses the mark, resulting in a story that feels more formulaic than thrilling. If you’re a fan of crime...
2024-11-2611 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.3: Mad Max: Fury RoadIn this explosive episode of Last Night I Watched, host Ashley Scrace Wendel dives deep into the chaos and cinematic genius of George Miller’s Mad Max: Fury Road. Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland and fuelled by jaw-dropping stunts, breathtaking visuals, and relentless action, this 2015 masterpiece has redefined what action films can achieve.
Join Ashley as she explores the film's unique storytelling style, its powerful feminist undertones through the iconic character Furiosa, and the legendary practical effects that set it apart from CGI-laden blockbusters. From Tom Hardy’s stoic Max to Charlize Theron’s unforgettable performance as the fierce Furiosa, Ashley...
2024-11-1808 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.2: The Iron ClawJoin Ashley Scrace Wendel on Last Night I Watched... as he delves into Sean Durkin’s The Iron Claw, the powerful 2024 biographical drama centered on the tragic Von Erich wrestling family. With standout performances from Zac Efron as Kevin Von Erich and Jeremy Allen White as Kerry Von Erich, The Iron Claw dives into the emotional and physical tolls of fame, family loyalty, and the pressures of living under the shadow of a family legacy. Ashley explores how Durkin’s direction brings both heart and heartbreak to this tale of wrestling, family tragedy, and resilience, and discusses why The Iron Claw...
2024-11-1212 minLast night I watched...S2, Ep.1: Civil WarIn this thought-provoking episode of Last Night I Watched..., host Ashley Scrace Wendel reviews Alex Garland’s 2024 dystopian war drama, Civil War. Set against a backdrop of a divided America, this intense and haunting film follows a group of journalists, including Kirsten Dunst’s character, as they document the devastating effects of conflict. Ashley examines Garland’s signature approach to dystopian storytelling, the film’s striking cinematography, and the complex allegorical themes that tackle political division and survival. Join Ashley as he unpacks what makes Civil War such a standout in the war drama genre and why it’s a film that...
2024-11-0712 minLast night I watched...Ep.23 - Everything Everywhere All At Once is a masterpiece
In this episode, we explore the acclaimed sci-fi action-comedy "Everything Everywhere All At Once" (2022), directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert. Starring Michelle Yeoh, the film follows an ordinary woman swept into a multiverse adventure to save reality itself. We discuss the film’s innovative storytelling, outstanding performances, and its blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Join us for an in-depth look at this visually stunning and emotionally rich film.
2024-08-2718 minLast night I watched...Ep.22 - The zany brilliance of They Cloned TyroneIn this episode, we delve into the sci-fi comedy mystery "They Cloned Tyrone" (2023), directed by Juel Taylor. Starring John Boyega, Teyonah Parris, and Jamie Foxx, the film follows an unlikely trio as they uncover a shocking government conspiracy.
2024-08-2009 minLast night I watched...Ep.21 - Diving into the murky depths of Dark WatersIn this episode, we explore the gripping legal drama "Dark Waters" (2019), directed by Todd Haynes and starring Mark Ruffalo. Based on true events, the film follows attorney Robert Bilott as he uncovers a corporate environmental conspiracy involving the chemical giant DuPont.
2024-08-1308 minLast night I watched...Ep.20 - A quick look at Bullet TrainJoin me on this thrilling episode as we dive into the high-octane world of "Bullet Train" (2022).
Directed by David Leitch and starring Brad Pitt, this action-comedy film takes you on a wild ride aboard a Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train.
2024-08-0606 minLast night I watched...Ep.19 - Ford vs Ferrari is a drama which extends beyond racingI know, you'll think Ford vs. Ferrari is a pure motorsport film. Think again. It's a very human, touching story of a driver and his journey, rather than being a story of the invention of a car. Well worth checking out. And here is why.
2024-07-3010 minLast night I watched...Ep.18 - Poor Things just isn't for me, I guessMusic: great. Design: great. Everything else? Well, let's say it didn't quite gel with me. Hear why.
2024-07-2311 minLast night I watched...Ep.17 - A kid's film, or a prophecy? WALL-E does bothEasily my favourite Pixar film, 'WALL-E' is a daring, delightful balance of the apocalypse, a sci-fi adventure, a romance, and a fable. Here's what I loved about it.
2024-07-1609 minLast night I watched...Ep.16 - Come and See the horror of warA legendary film, finally seen. And what an experience. 'Come and See' is unlike anything I have ever seen before, for better and worse. Listen why.
2024-07-0912 min2024-07-0207 minLast night I watched...Ep.14 - The FatherDoes this acting masterclass shine through on merits other than the top two talents? Well, sort of. Here's why.
2024-06-2506 minLast night I watched...Ep.13 - Dark humour is on The Menu this weekThe Menu - a film about hating rich people, and enjoying that hatred. Check it out.
2024-06-1807 minLast night I watched...BONUS: Godzilla Minus One - a monster movie masterclassJoin Ashley in the latest episode as he dissects the cinematic marvel *Godzilla Minus One*.
Intense action, stunning visual effects, and a gripping storyline that breathes new life into this iconic franchise, really set this Godzilla film (the 37th of the franchise) apart.
Hear how key scenes, character development, and directorial choices, offer a fresh perspective for both hardcore fans and newcomers.
Does this movie stand tall? Listen and find out. And don't forget to subscribe now and stay updated with the latest episodes.
2024-06-1711 minLast night I watched...Ep.12 - Let it go, let it gooooooo... (Frozen)Did a love of this film melt a frozen heart? Sort of.
2024-06-1108 min2024-06-0409 minLast night I watched...Ep.10 - Relishing in Past LivesWhat a lovely little film about romance, longing, regret, and nostalgia. A brilliant debut from Celine Song. Here's why.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lniw_podcast/
2024-05-2810 minLast night I watched...Ep.9 - Witnessing a Scorsese masterclassKillers Of The Flower Moon. I mean... It's wonderful. Here is why.
2024-05-2113 minLast night I watched...Ep.8 - A life-changing journey through 'Sound of Metal'Wow. Just wow. What a film. Hear why it resonated so much with me, here.
2024-05-1312 minLast night I watched...Ep.7 - The Creator of this one almost got it rightThe Creator is easily one of the best sci-fi movies I have seen in a while - well, at least half of it. Where does it fall down? In many places. Hear how with Ashley Scrace Wendel.
2024-05-0613 minLast night I watched...Ep.6 - Lots of problems with 3 Body ProblemWell, that was a damn waste of time. Thanks, Netflix. Here's why 3 Body Problem, well, sucked.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lniw_podcast/
2024-04-3018 min2024-04-2208 minLast night I watched...BONUS - Exploring trauma with 'Baby Reindeer'WARNING: This episode discusses sexual abuse, harassment, and trauma. It might not be suitable for all listeners.
Ashley shares his views on the harrowing, affecting 'Baby Reindeer' on Netflix.
2024-04-1918 minLast night I watched...Episode 4 - Maybe I'm an Old Dad shouting at clouds?Well, a rant had to come some time or another. Here's Old Dads for you. Steer clear (of the film, not this episode).
2024-04-1610 minLast night I watched...Episode 3 - Disney-Pixar turning me Inside OutWell, that was an emotional sucker-punch I didn't expect. Long episode, but there is a lot to unpack on this one.
2024-04-0917 minLast night I watched...Episode 2 - SignsThe first proper film review of the podcast. This time, it's to M.Night Shymalan's 'Signs'. Ashley talks about the pros and cons of the film, as well as why it touched him, and continues to do so.
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2024-04-0211 minLast night I watched...Episode 1 - IntroductionSo, what can you find here on 'Last night I watched...'? Ashley is about to explain.
Follow Ashley on Letterboxd at AshSW
Or Instagram at ashleyscracemusic
2024-04-0205 min