Shows
Scene by SceneBeware of a Holy Whore (1971) | Dir. Rainer Werner FassbinderIn this episode, we discuss Rainer Werner Fassbinder's Beware of a Holy Whore, including the autobiographical elements, Fassbinder's painterly compositions, and how the film makes the viewer an active participant.See where Beware of a Holy Whore is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• "Eclipse Series 39: Early Fassbinder" by Michael Koresky• "Hanna Schygulla: How Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s Favourite Actor “Survived” His Abuse" by Thomas Coll• End of the Commune? (1970)• Fassbinder in 5: Michael Koresky on an Aesthetic Revolution (The Criterion Channel)• Life Stories: A...
2026-02-061h 29Scene by SceneEnd of Year Review | 2025In this episode, we each reveal our top three films discussed on the podcast in 2025, reflect on the best and worst movies we watched throughout the year, and share our closing thoughts on 2025. We also included a few small segments rescued from 2025’s cutting room floor.Additional Audio Sources:• Avatar Trailer• Sneak Previews -"Best of 1980" (12-30-80)• Entertainment Tonight – “Leonard Maltin on the 10 Worst Movies of 1985”• CNBC Television - “How Netflix is Disrupting the Film Industry”• Return to Silent Hill Teaser TrailerIf you'd...
2026-01-301h 46Scene by SceneA Karate Christmas Miracle (2019) | Dir. Julie KimmelIn this episode, we discuss Julie Kimmel's A Karate Christmas Miracle, including Eric Roberts, the film's treatment of Abby, and the Ken Del Vecchio cinematic universe.See where A Karate Christmas Miracle is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• Justice For All Productions & Ken Del Vecchio YouTube Channel• Justice For All Productions Website• Hoboken International Film Festival Website• Local Filmmaker Judge Quits So He Can Promote Flick Ridiculing Obama• Acting in Film: An Actor's Take on Movie Making by Michael Caine (Book)...
2026-01-022h 19Scene by SceneMy Winnipeg (2007) | Dir. Guy MaddinIn this episode, we discuss Guy Maddin's My Winnipeg, including Maddin's use of repetition, the representation of memory, and the film's blending of fact and fiction.See where My Winnipeg is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's My Winnipeg Blu-ray• My Winnipeg (The Criterion Channel)• Guy Maddin and Robert Enright on My Winnipeg (The Criterion Channel)• Spanky: To the Pier and Back (The Criterion Channel)• Guy Maddin: His Winnipeg (Chicago Humanities)• Visiting Filmmaker Series: Q&A with Guy Maddin...
2025-12-051h 39Scene by SceneMahjong (1996) | Dir. Edward YangIn this episode, we discuss Edward Yang's Mahjong, including the ways in which the film is challenging for viewers, the film's exploration of an evolving Taiwan, and Yang's mastery of tone.See where Mahjong is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's A Confucian Confusion / Mahjong: Two Films by Edward Yang Blu-ray• Mahjong (The Criterion Channel)• Spotlight on Edward Yang with Dennis Lim (The Criterion Channel)Additional Audio Sources:• The Criterion Collection's A Confucian Confusion / Mahjong: Two...
2025-11-072h 19Scene by SceneThe Haunting (1963) | Dir. Robert WiseIn this episode, we discuss Robert Wise's The Haunting, including the film's many interpretations, Eleanor's self-discovery, and the film's depiction of paranormal activity.See where The Haunting is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Haunting Blu-ray• "The Haunting" Q&A with Robert Wise, Russ Tamblyn, & Nelson Gidding (1993)• Robert Wise on Making Classic Horror Films• Interview with Claire Bloom on "The Haunting"Additional Audio Sources:• The Haunting Trailer (from The Haunting Blu-ray)• The Haunting Blu-ray
2025-10-031h 49Scene by ScenePerfect Blue (1997) | Dir. Satoshi KonIn this episode, we discuss Satoshi Kon's Perfect Blue, including the film's connection to Japan's otaku culture, the film's depiction of celebrity, and Kon's use of cinematic techniques.See where Perfect Blue is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• Shout Factory's Perfect Blue Blu-ray• Otaku (1994)• Otaku (1994) (Internet Archive)• Lecture Series with Satoshi Kon | Perfect Blue (on YouTube)Additional Audio Sources:• Perfect Blue Trailer• Shout Factory's Perfect Blue Blu-rayIf you'd like to...
2025-09-052h 14Scene by SceneStranger Than Paradise (1984) | Dir. Jim JarmuschIn this episode, we discuss Jim Jarmusch’s Stranger Than Paradise, including the film's visual style, how the film grammar supports the themes, and what differentiates Willie and Eva.See where Stranger Than Paradise is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's Stranger Than Paradise Blu-ray• Stranger Than Paradise (The Criterion Channel)• Stranger Than Paradise: Enter Jarmusch by Geoff Andrew• Paradise Regained by J. HobermanAdditional Audio Sources:• Stranger Than Paradise Trailer (from The Criterion Coll...
2025-08-011h 47Scene by SceneTaste of Cherry (1997) | Dir. Abbas KiarostamiIn this episode, we discuss Abbas Kiarostami’s Taste of Cherry, including Mr. Badii's treatment of the three supporting characters, the visual motif of dirt, and the film's self-reflexive ending.See where Taste of Cherry is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's Taste of Cherry Blu-ray• Taste of Cherry (The Criterion Channel)• Taste of Cherry: Stay Near the Tree by A. S. Hamrah• Taste of Cherry by Godfrey Cheshire• Abbas Kiarostami | In Conversation With... (TIFF Originals)• Martin Scorse...
2025-07-112h 04Scene by SceneAnnouncement | Taste of Cherry DelayedWe wanted to let everyone know our discussion of Abbas Kiarostami's Taste of Cherry is delayed. In this brief episode, Joe gives some insight into why and when to expect the episode. Thank you for your understanding.Additional Audio Sources:• Taste of Cherry Trailer (The Criterion Collection's Blu-ray)• Taste of Cherry | Modern Trailer by CP TrailersIf you'd like to support the show, subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and share the pod...
2025-07-0404 minScene by SceneA Married Couple (1969) | Dir. Allan KingIn this episode, we discuss Allan King’s A Married Couple, including King's approach to documentary, the film's use of crane shots, and whether Billy and Antoinette "perform" for the camera.See where A Married Couple is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's Eclipse Series 24: The Actuality Dramas of Allan King• In Camera: Allan King• Allan King Interview• Antoinette on A Married Couple• Eclipse Series 24: The Actuality Dramas of Allan King by Michael Koresky• Michael Cera on A Married Co...
2025-06-061h 59Scene by SceneA Night of Knowing Nothing (2021) | Dir. Payal KapadiaIn this episode, we discuss Payal Kapadia’s A Night of Knowing Nothing, including the film’s unconventional approach to documentary, the value of the film’s fictional elements, and the theme of impossible love.See where A Night of Knowing Nothing is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• A Night of Knowing Nothing (The Criterion Channel Transfer)• Meet the Filmmakers | Payal Kapadia• Payal Kapadia on A Night of Knowing Nothing | NYFF59• A Night of Knowing Nothing Q&A | DocPoint 2022• Discussing A Night of...
2025-04-041h 50Scene by SceneOld Joy (2006) | Dir. Kelly ReichardtIn this episode, we discuss Kelly Reichardt’s Old Joy, including the differences between the film and the short story, how the film effectively establishes character, and how Reichardt and Sillen create disconnect through film grammar. See where Old Joy is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's Old Joy Blu-ray• Old Joy - Photographs by Justine Kurland & Fiction by Jonathan Raymond (Book)• Old Joy: Northwest Passages by Ed Halter• Kelly Reichardt: ‘My films are about people who don’t have a safety net’...
2025-03-072h 55Scene by SceneGodzilla Double FeatureIn this episode, we cover two Godzilla films, Ishirô Honda's Destroy All Monsters and Kazuki Ômori's Godzilla vs. Biollante. We also discuss our experiences with the franchise, what makes a good Godzilla film, and the similarities and differences between the two films.See where Destroy All Monsters & Godzilla vs. Biollante are available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's Godzilla: The Showa-Era Films, 1954–1975• The Criterion Collection's Godzilla vs. Biollante 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray• Toho Unused Special Effects Complete CollectionAdditional...
2025-02-072h 45Scene by SceneEnd of Year Review | 2024In this episode, we rank the 16 films discussed on the podcast in 2024. We also discuss the best and worst films we watched in 2024, lessons learned, and our 2025 film resolutions.Minor Spoiler Warnings:• Anora ~ 01:15:00 - 01:20:31• MaXXXine ~ 01:47:45 - 01:49:58• Greedy People ~ 01:51:47 - 01:53:28• Trap ~ 02:01:42 - 02:04:29Additional Audio Sources:• Cinelicious Pics' Giuseppe Makes a Movie Blu-ray• The Criterion Collection's Three Colors Blu-ray• The Criterion Collection's The Cloud-Capped Star Blu-ray• The Criterion Collection's John Cassavetes: Five Films Blu-ray• High (Acoustic...
2025-01-032h 35Scene by SceneThe Straight Story (1999) | Dir. David LynchIn this episode, we discuss David Lynch’s The Straight Story, including the purpose of Alvin’s journey, the film’s attention to small details, and the perfection of the film’s ending. See where The Straight Story is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• Lynch on Lynch (Book)• Room to Dream by David Lynch and Kristine McKenna (Book)• David Lynch Interview with Bobbie Wygant• Richard Farnsworth Interview with Bobbie Wygant• David Lynch Interview with Charlie Rose• David Lynch: The Idea Dictates E...
2024-12-062h 24Scene by SceneThe River (1997) | Dir. Tsai Ming-liangIn this episode, we discuss Tsai Ming-liang’s The River, including how Tsai visualizes complex ideas, the reason for Hsiao-Kang's neck pain, and what water represents. See where The River is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The River | City Cinematheque• City Without Tears by Jonathan Rosenbaum• Video Essay: "Days Passed" | Lee Kang-Sheng Through the Eyes of Tsai Ming-Liang• Award-Winning Director Tsai Ming-Liang Reveals The Origins of His Cinematic Dream• Filmmaker Tsai Ming-Liang on Screenwriting• NYFF58 Talk: Tsai Ming-liang...
2024-11-012h 22Scene by SceneThe Entity (1982) | Dir. Sidney J. FurieIn this episode, we discuss Sidney J. Furie’s The Entity, including how Carla is disbelieved and dismissed, the disharmony between the film’s sexual assaults and the paranormal climax, and Furie’s use of Dutch angles and the split diopter. See where The Entity is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• Scream Factory's The Entity Blu-ray• Imprint's Directed by Sidney J. Furie Blu-ray Boxset• Sidney J. Furie: Life and Films by Daniel Kremer (Book)• Portraits: Sidney J. Furie | TIFF OriginalsAdditi...
2024-10-042h 45Scene by SceneCure (1997) | Dir. Kiyoshi KurosawaIn this episode, we discuss Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s Cure, including how the film differs from traditional mysteries, how Kurosawa depicts violence, and how the filmmaking hypnotizes.See where Cure is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's Cure Blu-ray• Eureka! Masters of Cinema's Cure Blu-ray• Cure on The Criterion Channel• (There Is No) CURE• Cure: Erasure by Chris FujiwaraAdditional Audio Sources:• Cure Trailer• Eureka! Masters of Cinema's Cure Blu-ray
2024-09-062h 20Scene by SceneThe Cloud-Capped Star (1960) | Dir. Ritwik GhatakAnnouncement: Scene by Scene is transitioning to one episode per month. This new release schedule is temporary. More information in the episode. In this episode, we discuss Ritwik Ghatak’s The Cloud-Capped Star, including the Indian Partition’s influence on Ghatak, Ghatak’s unbalanced compositions, and how Neeta “looking” communicates character information. See where The Cloud-Capped Star is available to watch.Supplemental Material:• The Criterion Collection's The Cloud-Capped Star Blu-ray• The Cloud-Capped Star: A Cry for Life by Ira Bhaskar• An Anguish at Arm’s Lengt...
2024-08-162h 41Scene by SceneThat Day, on the Beach (1983) | Dir. Edward YangIn this episode, we discuss Edward Yang’s That Day, on the Beach, including the theme of tradition vs modernity, the film’s structure, and the techniques used to transition into flashbacks.Supplemental Material:Nova Media's That Day, on the Beach Blu-rayThat Day, on the Beach (Internet Archive)That Day, on the Beach (rarefilmm)Edward Yang (Contemporary Film Directors Series) by John Anderson (Book)That Day, with Edward Yang | PTS FoundationA One and A Two: Edward Yang Retrospective | Taipei Fine Arts...
2024-07-192h 49Scene by SceneShadows (1959) | Dir. John CassavetesIn this episode, we discuss John Cassavetes' Shadows including how the film grew from Cassavetes’ personal experiences, Cassavetes’ use of improvisation, and techniques used to communicate information about characters and their relationship with one another. See where Shadows is available to watch.Supplemental Material:The Criterion Collection's John Cassavetes: Five Films Blu-rayCassavetes on Cassavetes (Book)Shadows: Eternal Times Square by Gary GiddinsAdditional Audio Sources:Shadows TrailerThe Criterion Collection's John Cassavetes: Five Films Blu...
2024-07-052h 24Scene by SceneKiller Klowns from Outer Space (1988) | Dir. Stephen ChiodoTrash Cinema Month is Back!In this episode, we discuss Stephen Chiodo's Killer Klowns from Outer Space, including the killing of dogs in movies, how it compares to 1950s creature features, and the lack of understandable klown motivation.See where Killer Klowns from Outer Space is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The GameScream Factory's Killer Klowns from Outer Space 4K Ultra HD + Blu-rayChiodo Brothers' Other WorkLand of Terror (1967) (Dir. Chiodo Brothers)
2024-06-212h 53Scene by SceneNightmare Sisters (1988) | Dir. David DeCoteauTrash Cinema Month is Back!In this episode, we discuss David DeCoteau's Nightmare Sisters, including the lack of horror elements, how the film’s short schedule affected the film grammar, and how we found inspiration through the film.See where Nightmare Sisters is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Vinegar Syndrome's Nightmare Sisters Blu-rayCinema Conversations: David DeCoteauMonster Party (Podcast) | That's Exploitation!!! With David DeCoteau & David Del Valle!Dead for Filth with Michael Varrati (Podcast) | David DeCoteauDavid...
2024-06-072h 12Scene by SceneCléo from 5 to 7 (1962) | Dir. Agnès VardaIn this episode, we discuss Agnès Varda's Cléo from 5 to 7, including how Cléo goes from viewed to viewer, the techniques used to communicate Cléo's change, and how Varda balances fantasy and reality. See where Cléo from 5 to 7 is available to watch.Supplemental Material:The Criterion Collection's The Complete Films of Agnès Varda Blu-rayCléo from 5 to 7: RemembrancesCléo from 5 to 7 by Molly HaskellGodmotherly Love by Alexandra HidalgoA Woman’s Truth by Ginett...
2024-05-241h 44Scene by SceneClaire's Knee (1970) | Dir. Eric RohmerIn this episode, we discuss Eric Rohmer's Claire's Knee, including how Jerôme’s actions contradict his words, the characters’ lack of maturity, and how the blocking communicates character relationships.See where Claire's Knee is available to watch.Supplemental Material:The Criterion Collection's Six Moral Tales Blu-rayVideo Essay: How the French New Wave Changed CinemaCinema of Our Time with Eric Rohmer Part 1Cinema of Our Time with Eric Rohmer Part 2Eric Rohmer Interviews (Conversations with Filmmakers Series) (Book)...
2024-05-102h 04Scene by SceneAmerican Movie (1999) | Dir. Chris SmithIn this episode, we discuss Chris Smith's American Movie, including Mark’s performative side, Mark and Mike’s friendship, and the ways we see ourselves in Mark.See where American Movie is available to watch.Supplemental Material:American Movie Blu-rayCoven (Dir. Mark Borchardt)I Blow Up (Dir. Mark Borchardt)Mike Schank's MusicFilmmaker Mark Borchardt's Awesome Tour Of Milwaukee (Late Show with David Letterman)Fan Request: Mark Borchardt At Comic-Con (Late Show with David Letterman)The W...
2024-04-262h 24Scene by SceneGiuseppe Makes a Movie (2014) | Dir. Adam RifkinIn this episode, we discuss Adam Rifkin's Giuseppe Makes a Movie, including Giuseppe’s filmmaking process, how it inspires us, and the importance of documenting a community that no longer exists. See where Giuseppe Makes a Movie is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Giuseppe Makes a Movie Official WebsiteCinelicious Pics' Giuseppe Makes a Movie Blu-rayGarbanzo Gas (Film)Giuseppe Andrews' FilmsVizual Medium Obzervation (Interview with Giuseppe)Additional Audio Sources:Cabin Fever B...
2024-04-122h 05Scene by SceneThree Colors: Red (1994) | Dir. Krzysztof KieślowskiIn this episode, we discuss Krzysztof Kieślowski's Three Colors: Red, including its connections to Blue and White, the film's telephone motif, and the way Kieślowski’s camera conveys connection and disconnection.See where Three Colors: Red is available to watch.Supplemental Material:The Criterion Collection's Three Colors Blu-rayCurzon's Three Colours Trilogy 4K Ultra HDKieślowski on Kieślowski (Book)Krzysztof Kieślowski Interviews (Conversations with Filmmakers Series) (Book)Three Colors: A Hymn to European Cinema by Colin Ma...
2024-03-292h 07Scene by SceneThree Colors: White (1994) | Dir. Krzysztof KieślowskiIn this episode, we discuss Krzysztof Kieślowski's Three Colors: White, including the strong opening sequence, its connections to Three Colors: Blue, and whether the film effectively handles the theme of equality.See where Three Colors: White is available to watch.Supplemental Material:The Criterion Collection's Three Colors Blu-rayCurzon's Three Colours Trilogy 4K Ultra HDKieślowski on Kieślowski (Book)Krzysztof Kieślowski Interviews (Conversations with Filmmakers Series) (Book)Three Colors: A Hymn to European Cinema by Colin Ma...
2024-03-151h 21Scene by SceneThree Colors: Blue (1993) | Dir. Krzysztof KieślowskiIn this episode, we discuss Krzysztof Kieślowski's Three Colors: Blue, including possible interpretations of the film’s abstract moments, the depiction of loss and grief, and Juliette Binoche's internal performance.See where Three Colors: Blue is available to watch.Supplemental Material:The Criterion Collection's Three Colors Blu-rayCurzon's Three Colours Trilogy 4K Ultra HDKieślowski on Kieślowski (Book)Krzysztof Kieślowski Interviews (Conversations with Filmmakers Series) (Book)Three Colors: A Hymn to European Cinema by Colin MacCabe
2024-03-011h 58Scene by SceneEnd of Year Review | 2023We’re sorry for the delay on this episode, but we hope you enjoy the looser discussion. We’ll be back on March 1st, discussing Krzysztof Kieślowski’s Three Colors: Blue.In this episode, we discuss our favorite films featured on the podcast. We also discuss the best and worst films we watched in 2023, lessons learned, and our 2024 film resolutions.Additional Music from Charlotte Wells' Aftersun.If you'd like to support the show, subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen...
2023-12-291h 03Scene by SceneChristmas, Again (2014) | Dir. Charles PoekelIn this episode, we discuss Charles Poekel's Christmas, Again, including Poekel's extensive research, Kentucker Audley's naturalistic performance, and the film's lack of traditional exposition.See where Christmas, Again is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Factory 25's Christmas, Again Blu-rayChristmas, Again KickstarterChristmas, Again Q&A with Film at Lincoln CenterCharles Poekel & Kentucker Audley Interview with No Film SchoolKentucker Audley, Hannah Gross, & Charles Poekel InterviewMeet the Artist '15: Charles Poekel - Sundance Film Festival
2023-12-081h 46Scene by SceneNine Days (2020) | Dir. Edson OdaThis episode features discussion of suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.https://988lifeline.org/In this episode, we discuss Edson Oda's Nine Days, including multiple interpretations of Will, the questions the story raises, and the film's various editing techniques.See where Nine Days is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Edson Oda's PortfolioBehind the...
2023-11-242h 13Scene by SceneAfter Life (1998) | Dir. Hirokazu Kore-edaIn this episode, we discuss Hirokazu Kore-eda's After Life, including the film's documentary aesthetic, how Kore-eda communicates information visually, and the way exposition is made engaging.See where After Life is available to watch.Supplemental Material:The Criterion Collection's After Life Blu-rayBFI's After Life Blu-rayAfter Life: In Memoriam by Viet Thanh NguyenOn the Novelistic Afterlife of After Life by Hirokazu Kore-edaAfter Life Press KitAdditional Audio Sources:After Life...
2023-11-101h 23Scene by SceneThe Descent (2005) | Dir. Neil MarshallIn this episode, we discuss Neil Marshall's The Descent, including the film’s lighting, the mistakes made in the first act, and whether the creatures help or harm the film. See where The Descent is available to watch.Supplemental Material:The Descent Blu-rayAdditional Audio Sources:The Descent Trailer"The Descent: Beneath the Scenes" on The Descent Blu-ray"DescENDING: Interview with Neil Marshall" on The Descent Blu-rayIf you'd like to support...
2023-10-271h 56Scene by ScenePrince of Darkness (1987) | Dir. John CarpenterIn this episode, we discuss John Carpenter's Prince of Darkness, including the screenplay's missteps, the effective use of insects, and Carpenter's visual techniques.See where Prince of Darkness is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Scream Factory's Prince of Darkness Blu-rayJohn Carpenter on Managing to "Survive" Hollywood (Variety Interview)Additional Audio Sources:Prince of Darkness TrailerScream Factory's Prince of Darkness Blu-rayJohn Carpenter Interview with BBCIf you'd lik...
2023-10-131h 52Scene by SceneIt Comes at Night (2017) | Dir. Trey Edward ShultsIn this episode, we discuss Trey Edward Shults' It Comes at Night, including the film's marketing, our interpretations of "it", and the film's use of traditional horror conventions and iconography.See where It Comes at Night is available to watch.Supplemental Material:It Comes at Night Blu-rayAnatomy of a Scene: Trey Edward Shults Narrates a Scene From ‘It Comes at Night’Trey Edward Shults & Cast Interview with BUILD SeriesIt Comes at Night DP Drew Daniels on New Lenses, Old Dogs and...
2023-09-291h 36Scene by ScenePossession (1981) | Dir. Andrzej ŻuławskiIn this episode, we discuss Andrzej Żuławski’s Possession, including our interpretations of the film's creature and doppelgängers, the expressive actor blocking, and the abrasive (yet successful) performances.See where Possession is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Mondo Vision's Possession Blu-rayAdditional Audio Sources:Possession Official TrailerMondo Vision's Possession Blu-rayAudio Commentary on Mondo Vision's Possession Blu-ray"The Other Side of the Wall" on Mondo Vision's Possession Blu-rayIf y...
2023-09-151h 41Scene by SceneSynecdoche, New York (2008) | Dir. Charlie KaufmanIn this episode, we discuss Charlie Kaufman’s Synecdoche, New York, including the lack of subtlety, the execution of numerous themes and ideas, and whether the film encapsulates the human experience. See where Synecdoche, New York is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Synecdoche, New York Blu-rayCharlie Kaufman | BAFTA Screenwriters’ Lecture SeriesCharlie Kaufman Interview with WGA WestCharlie Kaufman and Catherine Keener Interview with moviewebCharlie Kaufman Interview with DP/30Additional Audio Sources:S...
2023-08-181h 57Scene by SceneAguirre, the Wrath of God (1972) | Dir. Werner HerzogIn this episode, we discuss Werner Herzog's Aguirre, the Wrath of God, including Herzog's process, the unconventional storytelling, and the masterful approach to perspective.See where Aguirre, the Wrath of God is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Shout! Factory's Aguirre, the Wrath of God Blu-rayWerner Herzog's MasterClassWerner Herzog: A Guide for the Perplexed (Book)Aguirre, the Wrath of God Review by Roger Ebert Bill Hader on Aguirre, the Wrath of GodAdditional Audi...
2023-08-041h 58Scene by SceneNo Bears (2022) | Dir. Jafar PanahiIn this episode, we discuss Jafar Panahi's No Bears, including the self-reflective themes, Panahi's focus on women in Iranian society, and how Panahi captures the documentary aesthetic.See where No Bears is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Jafar Panahi's Miami Film Festival Precious Gem Award Acceptance SpeechRamin Bahrani on No BearsJafar Panahi Interviews (Conversations with Filmmakers Series) (Book)The Politics of Iranian Cinema: Film and Society in the Islamic Republic by Saeed Zeydabadi-NejadThe Film Comment Podcast | Min...
2023-07-211h 40Scene by SceneBless Their Little Hearts (1984) | Dir. Billy WoodberryIn this episode, we discuss Billy Woodberry's Bless Their Little Hearts, including the film's expertly crafted opening, the theme of masculinity, and the film's place within the L.A. Rebellion film movement.See where Bless Their Little Hearts is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Milestone Films' Bless Their Little Hearts DVDUCLA Library Film & Television Archive's The Story of L.A. RebellionWhat Is LA Rebellion Film Movement? The Essential GuideNotebook Primer: L.A. Rebellion by A.E. HuntB...
2023-07-071h 46Scene by SceneMiami Connection (1987) | Dir. Richard Park & Y.K. KimIn this episode, we discuss Richard Park & Y.K. Kim's Miami Connection, including Kim’s aspirations for the film, the unsuccessful execution of fight scenes, and why every character is an orphan.See where Miami Connection is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Vinegar Syndrome's Miami Connection 4K Ultra HD + Blu-rayVice Outsider | TaeKwonDo Rockers vs. Cocaine-Dealing Ninjas: The True Story of 'Miami Connection'‘Miami Connection’ Goes From Flop to Fame by Mike AyersAdditional Audio Sources:Miami Co...
2023-06-231h 48Scene by SceneHard Ticket to Hawaii (1987) | Dir. Andy SidarisIn this episode, we discuss Andy Sidaris' Hard Ticket to Hawaii, including the nonsensical narrative and character decisions, the lazy action filmmaking, and Sidaris’ filmmaker trademarks.See where Hard Ticket to Hawaii is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Andy Sidaris Official WebsiteMill Creek's Hard Ticket to Hawaii Blu-ray Naked Truth: The Fall and Rise of Dona Spier by Dona Spier and Chris Epting (Book)Andy Sidaris, Arlene Sidaris, & Dona Spier Interview with Jimmy CarterWorking the Angles in Low-Bu...
2023-06-092h 07Scene by SceneTrash Cinema Month | IntroductionIn this episode, we introduce our June film series, Trash Cinema Month, including the definition of “Trash Cinema”, what makes a “Trash Film”, and the value of watching and discussing “Trash Cinema”. Join us for our first Trash Cinema Month selection, Hard Ticket to Hawaii.Supplemental Material:Trash Cinema: The Lure of the Low (Shortcuts Series) by Guy Barefoot (Book)If you'd like to support the show, subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts, leave a review on...
2023-06-0910 minScene by SceneAftersun (2022) | Dir. Charlotte WellsIn this episode, we discuss Charlotte Wells' Aftersun, including the numerous ideas and themes presented, the brave filmmaking choices, and our differing interpretations of the film's final moments.See where Aftersun is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Charlotte Wells' Short FilmsAftersun ScreenplayCharlotte Wells Interview with Film at Lincoln CenterMUBI Podcast | In AFTERSUN, Charlotte Wells Lets Queen and Bowie Tell the Story (Podcast)Script Apart | Aftersun with Charlotte Wells (Podcast)The Distance in Your Eyes...
2023-05-261h 58Scene by SceneShiva Baby (2020) | Dir. Emma SeligmanIn this episode, we discuss Emma Seligman's Shiva Baby, including how the feature compares to the short, the tightrope walk between comedy and anxiety, and how the film grammar places the audience into Danielle’s perspective.See where Shiva Baby is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Utopia's Shiva Baby Blu-rayMaking It: Women in Film | Explore Cinematography with Shiva Baby DoP Maria Rusche (Podcast)Thank You for Coming Out | Emma Seligman, Thank You For Coming Out (While Staying In) (Podcast)A Fi...
2023-05-121h 24Scene by SceneThe Handmaiden (2016) | Dir. Park Chan-wookIn this episode, we discuss Park Chan-wook’s The Handmaiden, including the screenplay's masterful use of setup and payoff, the film's relationship to the rest of Park's filmography, and Park's filmmaking process.See where The Handmaiden is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Curzon's The Handmaiden Blu-rayThe Handmaiden: Why Costume Design is Important by Filmed in EtherPark Chan-wook Interview with BFIThe Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith | Park Chan-wook - The Handmaiden Q&AIn the Projection Booth wi...
2023-04-281h 44Scene by SceneRebels of the Neon God (1992) | Dir. Tsai Ming-liangIn this episode, we discuss Tsai Ming-liang’s Rebels of the Neon God, including its similarities to Edward Yang's The Terrorizers, Hsiao-Kang's multi-layered motivations, and Tsai's skill at introducing/establishing characters.See where Rebels of the Neon God is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Big World Pictures' Rebels of the Neon God (Blu-ray)Tsai Ming-liang & Lee Kang-sheng Interview with Asia Society Pt. 1Tsai Ming-liang & Lee Kang-sheng Interview with Asia Society Pt. 2Tsai Ming-liang & Lee Kang-sheng Interview with Asia Society Pt. 3...
2023-04-141h 35Scene by SceneThe Terrorizers (1986) | Dir. Edward YangAfter debate over the title, we discuss Edward Yang’s The Terrorizers, including the unconventional filmmaking, the possible interpretations of the ending, and who is/are the terrorizer/s.See where The Terrorizers is available to watch.Supplemental Material:Edward Yang (Contemporary Film Directors) (Book)It's All Over: Edward Yang’s The Terrorizers by Nick PinkertonSmoke Gets in Your Eyes: The Terrorizers by James WatersGreat Directors: Edward Yang by Saul AusterlitzAdditional Audio Sources:Th...
2023-03-311h 41Scene by SceneMulholland Drive (2001) | Dir. David LynchIn this episode, we discuss David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive, including the film's journey from television pilot to the silver screen, the many possible interpretations, and what it means to be Lynchian.See where Mulholland Drive is available to watch in the US | UK.Supplemental Material:The Criterion Collection's Mulholland Dr. (Blu-ray)Lynch on Lynch (Book)Room to Dream by David Lynch and Kristine McKenna (Book)David Lynch's MasterClassDavid Lynch: David Lean LectureRoom to Dream: Da...
2023-03-171h 44Scene by SceneMetropolis (1927) | Dir. Fritz LangIn our debut episode, we discuss Fritz Lang’s Metropolis, including the restoration that produced this most complete version to date, the culture that Metropolis influenced, and Metropolis’ status as a masterpiece.See where Metropolis is available to watch in the US | UK.Supplemental Material:Kino Lorber's The Complete Metropolis (Blu-ray)Eureka! Masters of Cinema's Metropolis (Blu-ray)Fritz Lang's Metropolis: Cinematic Visions of Technology and Fear (Book)Fritz Lang Interviews (Conversations with Filmmakers Series) (Book)Voyage to Metropolis (2010) (Documentary)...
2023-03-031h 38Scene by SceneScene by Scene | IntroductionIn this episode, we introduce ourselves, explain the show’s format, and discuss what we hope to accomplish with Scene by Scene.If you'd like to support the show, subscribe to the podcast and rate/review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.If you have any thoughts, comments, or questions about the show, you can email us at scenebyscenepodcast@gmail.comFollow us on Letterboxd: Joe | Justin
2023-03-0315 min